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Lifestyle
Cariuma Shoes Review
Cariuma Shoes
There are a few firms that produce sneakers with a traditional design. Still, very few can claim to be a sneaker brand that prioritises using sustainable materials and being environmentally friendly.
Cariuma shoes fall somewhere in the aesthetic spectrum between minimalist, useful, and stylish. Depending on your preferred look, they provide an amazing selection of both low- and high-cut sneakers.
As I came to know CARIUMA, I discovered that the company's basic values centre on producing products that are better for people and the environment. Because of this, they intentionally built their sneakers to be stylish, incredibly comfortable, and well-crafted.
The company is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as suggested by its tagline, "Born in Rio. Raised internationally." The name of the brand, "cariuma," is a simple translation of the Portuguese term for pine needles. All of this is consistent with the business' propensity to wear its beliefs and cultural heart on its sleeve.
I like that Cariuma has a lot of unwavering principles because they are something that the company has in abundance. I could see that the business does almost everything it can to guarantee that its goods are manufactured and distributed ethically, from the sourcing of their resources and the reduction of their carbon impact to the paying of their employees fair wages.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT CARIUMA
Using the greatest raw materials and an eco-friendly manufacturing process, Cariuma is a sustainable footwear company produced in Brazil. Fortunately, many of their shoes have a contemporary and timeless design, so it's simple to understand why the brand's sneakers have thousands of people on waitlists.
After the brand's co-founders quit their corporate professions to concentrate on creating ethical, sustainable footwear, the company grew its grassroots following. Cariuma's eco-friendly strategy is consistent with its foundational belief that "good things take time." 43 percent of Cariuma models are vegan-only footwear, which is a very impressive number in and of itself.
You may feel good about these shoes. Cariuma employs natural materials, fair labour techniques, and ethical manufacturers. When you take into account the care and quality you receive in each pair, this attention to detail is evident.
WHAT MAKES CARIUMA SNEAKERS DIFFERENT
The sneakers by Cariuma are distinctive in all the right ways. This company does not produce overpriced, garish sneakers that are immediately sold out. With pricing that is quite reasonable (around $100 for pairs like the Cariuma OCA Low), Cariuma combines sustainability and style.
With every pair of Cariuma shoes you buy, two trees are planted in the Brazilian rainforest. In the fast-moving shoe industry, it cannot be easy to find that kind of direct action. Once more, you may feel comfortable about purchasing these sneakers (and wearing them).
Are Cariuma shoes cozy to wear?
It would be a huge understatement to say that Cariuma sneakers are not comfortable. I would contend that they are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. I usually wear an 8 or 8.5, so I ordered the Ibi sneaker in size 8, and it fit perfectly—it wasn't too snug or too loose. The sneakers slip on like a glove and stay on without any of the dreaded heel chafing because the knit material is so flexible, and the interior of the shoe is just the right amount of spacious. Additionally, the shoes required no break-in period at all. When I initially put them on my feet, they immediately felt like the ideal pair of worn-in sneakers.
The lightweight design and supportive cushioned memory foam insole of the Cariuma sneakers make them incredibly comfortable to wear. I can confirm that these shoes are made for walking after wearing them during a full day of shopping.
But even though they are sneakers, they are not footwear designed for vigorous exercise. While comfortable, the low top and flat soles don't offer the ankle support or shock absorption you desire in a running or cross-training shoe.
Should you purchase Cariuma footwear?
Do you enjoy feeling at ease? Do you enjoy dressing stylishly? Do you favour patronising businesses that strive toward sustainability? You should purchase the Cariuma Ibi sneakers if you said "yes" to any of the preceding questions. They feel even better than they look—perhaps not as good as "walking on clouds," but damn near as good.
I struggle to think of any excuse not to purchase a pair of these sneakers for yourself, even though they are more appropriate for kicking around than for exercise. They cost more than the generic shoes you now have in your Amazon cart, but they're worth the extra money. Whatever you want to call it, I believe I have finally found my "solemate." The Cariuma Ibi sneakers are offered in nine colors, sizes ranging from 5 to 13, for both men and women.
Pros
- a great selection of fashionable sneakers for men and women
- Period without break-ins (seriously)
- Ethically-made
- Sustainable components
- Transparency in business conduct
- B Corporation certification
- affordable and useful for the majority of daily tasks
- Elegant and simple style
- For each pair purchased, two trees are planted.
Cons
- The styles frequently reflect a niche of shoes that may not appeal to everyone.
- Nearly only accessible online
STYLES AND MATERIALS OF CARIUMA
The sporty Catiba Pro and the light knit Ibi shoe are just two of the numerous low-top and high-top styles that Cariuma provides.
STYLE AND COLORS OF OCA LOW
The OCA Low is a fantastic choice for a simple, compact closet. It's a simple, stylish shoe with a little flair and a few discrete design elements that set it apart (which I prefer).
As a wonderful alternative to your entirely white option, I chose the grey suede. I would advise choosing the off-white canvas or triple white premium leather choice if you don't already have an all-white pair of sneakers.
UPPERS, INSOLE, and OUTSOLE: SHOES
These fashionable low-top sneakers have soft suede uppers and an interior lining made of organic cotton canvas. It seems like the usual food, yes?
In the best way possible, these kicks are anything but typical. The insole is both technologically advanced and comfy, with a vegetable-tanned leather footbed and a hybrid memory foam insole.
WHAT WAY FITS THEM? WHAT DO THEY FEEL?
If you typically wear a size 9 or 9.5 shoe. They appear to fit true to size, and I got a 9 in the OCA Low.
They fit your foot almost too precisely since you are used to having a little more room at the toe and on both sides. Therefore, if you're between sizes, you might want to think about going one size higher.
Style-wise, they are simple sneakers because everything goes with the grey suede and striking white rubber outsole.
WHY CARIUMA SNEAKERS SHOULD BE PART OF YOUR OUTFIT
If you want vegan sneakers that don't necessarily look like vegan shoes, or if you want a sustainable sneaker that lets you forgo the fast fashion options. Cariuma is the ideal choice. We may easily look amazing while acting responsibly, thanks to the sustainable shoe company.
The Lean Wardrobe philosophy has this notion of sustainability built right in (if you buy fewer, nicer items and keep them for a long period, you're already practising sustainability to some extent).
However, by wearing their products, you're more stridently endorsing Cariuma's position and casting your financial support. You're arguing that sustainability and fashion are important. And that's advantageous.
User Reviews
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Going to wear tennis shoes more now!
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Good shoes, customer service needs work
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So surprised to see reports of bad…
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In love with my shoes
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Reading some opinions online I was not…
Reading some opinions online I was not sure about the order of this product online, because most people weren't satisfied about shipping outcomes, but I was really well followed by the team when I asked for information and the delivery was in the right timing.
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Solid company to deal with
I saw a lot of bad reviews and just wanted to add my experiences. I have been purchasing from Cariuma Shoes for a few years now and just recently bought the new pro slip ons. I love these shoes and that they are made of sustainable products is really important to me. I had a delivery issue with this last purchase and it was due to the delivery company delivering to the wrong address. I reached out on the live chat on the Cariuma site, and also sent a message on their Facebook page. I received a response from both messages but the Facebook path was much more responsive. My shoes were dropped off today by my neighbor who received them. Both Cariuma and DHL shipping were super responsive for me. I will continue purchasing from this company and find them to be a good vendor to deal with.
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Fast shipping, easy exchange process.
Ordered the Slip-On Skate Pro shoes and they arrived via FedEx in 3 business days. They were too large, so I initiated an exchange via Happy Returns the same day and dropped them off at a local "return bar" the next morning. The 2nd pair 1/2 size down arrived via DHL in another 3 business days. I unfortunately have to return the 2nd pair for a refund. These shoes are overall pretty comfortable straight out of the box, but the forefoot/toe area is too narrow for me. Will definitely consider re-ordering if Cariuma ever offers wider sizes.
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Cool shoes and good mission
Cool shoes and good mission, but their customer service is terrible. Have tried to return the shoes (which made my feet bleed) but have had really bad support after 10 days of trying and plenty of emails.
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Exactly two minutes after I made an…
Exactly two minutes after I made an on-line purchase I initiated a "chat" message to say that I ordered the wrong size by mistake. About 8 hours later I received a friendly chat reply (sorry for the delay) and was told the order was already being processed but they would initiate a cancelation. The following day (about 36 hours after the purchase) I received an email from the chat person stating "sorry but your product has shipped." I proceeded to process a "happy return" which was probably their best customer service strategy. II didn't like the product enough to ask for an exchange. The company's website has zero FAQ or options for order cancellation or to correct an ordering error.
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No customer support
I ordered the wrong size (US instead of UK) and immediately contacted the customer support team. Live chat and whatsapp were not available during their stated working hours, and they only responded via email after 3 days when it was too late. In fairness, I initiated a return and received my refund the next day, which was nice. However, they did not refund the socks, which apparently are non-refundable. In the end I didn't order another pair, as I did not trust the customer service anymore. In addition to be honest I am not sure the shoes are genuinely sustainable.
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Update: Cariuma doesn’t suck!
UPDATE TO MY REVIEW: I submitted a claim via PayPal and within 24 hours I was contacted by someone at Cariuma. I was told there were some system integrations being performed & unfortunately affected their customer support functions (believable, I work in IT). They gave me a full refund AND still sent me a complete replacement order *for free!* using a different shipping co. I got the order almost 5 days earlier than est date per the shipping co…and I LOVE the shoes. I am changing my rating to all 5's :)
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Comfy shoe not sure if it's really eco-friendly
Just received my high top sneakers the fit is good and as I have a wide foot I did order half a size larger ...and I am glad I did... look forward to wearing them they seem quite comfortable... however being made in China shipped to Singapore and then out to me I'm not sure about the real eco-friendly experience...
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I’ve written twice to ask where these…
I’ve written twice to ask where these ‘eco-friendly’ shoes are made, when they originally claimed they were ‘handmade’. They never replied - but quietly removed that claim. I also asked who are the owners of this brand, when initially they told stories about various young people - all model good looks, fit and tanned, “from Rio”, appeared in their ads as ‘founders’. Again, no reply. Is this a marketing-driven scam with paid PR reviews?
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Great looking shoe, poorly made
I love the design and love what Cariuma stand for but the shoes barely last a few months. I've just had to throw away my second pair in under a year. I've seen a lot of negative reviews surrounding the customer service but I didn't find that to be the case at all, in fact I was impressed by their customer service. Great looking shoe, very comfortable but both pairs started to fall apart after less than a month of wear.
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Amazing Company setting the bar high.
Amazing Company setting the bar high. I have ordered twice from Cariuma. They are impeccable with their communication and attention to detailed, high quality, sustainable, and super fly footwear. I will continue supporting them. Also, not that I would ever expect it but... My shoes arrived both times in under a week! Love.
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Not as comfortable as I'd hoped
Was excited to buy these shoes and had high expectations. They were delivered very quickly too which was great. They look like quality shoes but not nearly as comfortable as everyone else is saying. They seemed to fit OK and I wore them with socks and got blisters within15 minutes! So disappointing :-(
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Excellent customer service and painless returns process
The shoes didn't fit but the returns process was super easy and painless with pickup from my house. The customer service team were quick to answer my questions. Thank you Cariuma - just a shame your shoes came in different widths to accommodate my weird shaped feet!
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This review is based upon the whole…
This review is based upon the whole ethical story, a company to "better serve people and the planet". Upon enquiring where there shoes were being made I was told China - so unless you live in China, not the best purchase to help the planet!!
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Great looking, comfortable sneakers and excellent support
I ordered a pair that was made to order (and unlike others state here it was clearly written on the website) and as it didn't fit well they let me return it as a one-time exception, even if in their conditions explain that you can't return made-to-order shoes. A tip for european Cariuma customers: check well on the american size you order. I think the conversion chart on the website is not correct. Hopefully they will fix it soon. In my case the great costumer support made up for that. They were very friendly and helped me in every step of the return. At the end I got a new pair that fits perfectly, is very comfortable and looks great. I am very happy to have bought shoes from Cariuma.
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Excellent customer service! How refreshing.
My wife purchased a pair of pink sneekers but the wrong size. Would suggest clear sizing chart when ordering or if ordering from uk just show uk sizes and if US just uS etc.. Anyway the shoes had to go back as size 3 uk instead of 5. Pop into box and seal, attach barcode sticker downloaded from returns link and dropped at local DHL pick up point. once logged in at pick up point refund was in the bank before I even got home. Found the staff really helpful and pleasant. New shoes were quick to arrive and my wife says they are immediately as comfortable as slippers. I am going to buy some just for the great experience. I will order the correct size.
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How to Return your Cariumas
I ordered one pair of Cariuma shoes a few years ago, and was disappointed that they were too small. Too lazy to return, I just gave them away...and recently ordered another pair in a significantly larger size. The styles and colors are great, after all. They were delivered quickly to my apartment door by Fed Ex but I was very disappointed that the shoes were STILL too small. Fortunately I had kept every email concerning my order and found the link for returns and exchanges at the bottom of my order confirmation. Make sure you keep that email, because that’s the only place where you’re told how to initiate a return. There’s certainly no paperwork included in the shoebox. The FedEx return cost me nothing, and I’m now awaiting a full refund.
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These are the best and most beautiful…
These are the best and most beautiful sneaker I have ever owned in my life. Size fit perfect, quality exceptionel, looks beautiful. Very fast delivery considering distance. Love from Denmark
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Product not exactly as advertised
I was excited to buy these shoes! Unfortunately, they were much too large. Customer service was quick to respond, but it took many emails to figure out the best way to return. At first I was going to exchange, but after so many emails, I began to discover the truth about the product and asked for a refund. 1st) I was told that the shoes are men's shoes converted to women's sizes. 2nd) I was told the package was coming from Singapore. I would not have paid $79.00 for shoes made in China. 3rd) Their "Happy Returns" location no longer existed. This created many more steps on my part, to return the shoes. 4th) The positive part to this feedback is that the refund occurred sooner than the 10-day time period that was stated.
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Customer service update
My initial review was scathing (see below). However, although it took quite some time for the Customer Service Team to respond to my initial emails, they were very helpful. The return was organised and the exchange for a larger pair was completed. A query as to why I was charged twice for taxes resulted in the amount being refunded. The shoes themselves are well made and qood quality. Overall, although my initial experience was very frustrating, there was good follow up and the shoes are worth it. So, in the interests of fairness, I'm amending this review. Initial review; The shoes were too small and the customer service is appalling. They don't respond to emails and their Live Chat does not work. Exchanges are subject to shoe size, which is unfortunate if the original problem is shoe size. The returns procedure is convoluted; the order number often is not recognised, choices of how or where to return is confusing. It is as if the company were being as deliberately obstructive as possible.
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Nice shoes but they employ misleading…
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Spammer
Spammer, won't ever remove you from their persistent emails despite repeated requests to unsubscribe.
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First class service
First class service. I ordered a pair of trainers for my daughter. Excellent quality. I ordered the wrong size and wanted to exchange for the correct size. The customer service was exceptional, hassle free and free returns,
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Abusing email system
Everyday a flow of emails, ignoring the fact you don’t wan’t anything to be send again they continue over and over. You can ask as many time you want and order a cancelation in the mailing list, they ignore it. Hawful.
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These shoes are not comfortable
I bought these shoes for a trip to Europe in September as they advertised no beak in period. These shoes gave me the worst blisters. I had to buy a new pair of shoes in Italy. It is now January and these shoes are still giving me blisters 😕
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The communication and delivery of this…
The communication and delivery of this company is absolutely shocking!!!! I ordered two pair of shoes for my daughter and I for Christmas at the beginning of November. Asked if they could be delivered in time. Well they said yes. Paid express shipping. I received part of my order before Christmas. The other pair of shoes still not here!!! Nothing. According to a tracking number they are still in the US???? Not worth it. Don’t waste your money nor your time.
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Excellent Service!
I purchased the Avitar low cut sneakers as a gift from Cariuma. I was concerned after reading all the negative reviews regarding delivery issues. But, I want to let everyone know that this company did not only deliver the product, but delivered it 6 days BEFORE their promised date. Overall, excellent service, smooth order processing, and delievery, above and beyond expectations. Special Thanks to all the Cariuma personel that made this happen!!!
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The ADs keep coming
Somehow I got on their mailing list. In the emails they send me there is no unsubscribe option. I sent them multiple emails requesting to be removed from their list, but the ads keep coming. After reading the reviews here I would NEVER order from them anyway.
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multiple emails and no response
I’ve sent multiple emails regarding the lost-in-transit status of my order and absolutely no response after 2 weeks. Makes me question the validity of their environmental claims because most other socially conscious companies are super responsive. At least the daily marketing emails have stopped since I started replying to them.
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Awesome products and service!
I'm shocked to read the reviews here. My husband is super happy with his shoes. They are both beautiful and comfy! We had a bit of a problem with the delievery but the costumservice was awesome. Really fast and polite replies.
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Not very comfortable
I've owned a pair of these shoes for over a year now and have used them for extensive long walks about 5+ miles at a time and unfortunately these are just not very comfortable shoes. They have the same problems that canvas shoes of this type always have (think converse or vans). The soles are real stiff and I get fatigue in my calves. My derby boots and palladium shoes are much more comfortable for long walks and just daily wear in general. The uppers are pretty comfortable owing to the fabric but overall this style of shoe is just uncomfortable in general I suppose due to the flat soles.
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Poor customer service, no idea how to set expectations
Only giving 1 star because I have to. These look so good, but unfortunately they can't even deliver them. Ordered in November, was told they would be dispatched on 30th. No further info. Chased with 2 emails and live chat and was told they won't now be disp until 16th Jan. They were supposed to be a Christmas present. Offered $25 off next purchase-who would want to do that?! Really disappointing experience.
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Unhappy with service Cariuma No Shoes
Purchased on 27th Nov.. when I go to site it says my order is fulfilled. Tried to contact , no response .. I shall be contacting my bank if there is no movement ASAP
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Purchased on Nov 5
Purchased on Nov 5, 2022. It is December 2 and no shoes. Lots of claims about delivery issues but still no shoes. There is something very wrong with this.
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Terrible quality
Terrible quality. Within a week the eyelets of the shoelaces broke/snapped. Not very comfortable, not close to how comfortable I was told by their site and countless numbers of clearly paid reviews. I rarely wear them.
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Preordered and then they went silent
Preordered, then order didn't arrive. Chased up and then gave another date 10 days later. That day passed and they are now ignoring me.
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I am having same experience with my…
I am having same experience with my order. I received an email saying my order shipped. When I track it says package never received. Customer service says they are trying to get answers from shipper as to where my shoes are. I’ve received Four emails saying they are waiting for shipper to respond. I received my first pair two years ago without a hitch. Something has happened to this company. I also preordered a pair of leopard print that I’m afraid I will never receive. Scammed twice! Will never order again….they have already charged my account for both pairs. SCAM!!!!!
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i orderedsome off white shoes and when…
i orderedsome off white shoes and when i go to track my order it says that it doesnt exist but money was taken from my aacount. shoes still has not arrived after weeks and weeks.
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Beware this company is fraudulent and…
Beware this company is fraudulent and scam!! DO NOT BUY FROM CARIUMA
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