Frequently Asked Questions

Brand & Origin

What is Koio?

Koio (pronounced koy-oh) is a modern luxury footwear brand founded in 2014 and based in New York City. We specialize in premium Italian-made sneakers designed for everyday wear, offering refined minimalism, comfort, and quality at an accessible price.

Where is Koio based?

Koio is headquartered in New York City, with a store at 199 Lafayette Street. Every pair of Koio is handcrafted in Italy from start to finish. After visiting 34 factories, we partnered with a skilled manufacturer in Florence who shares our passion for quality. Each sneaker is made by 42 artisans using Italian sourced leathers and other premium materials.

Who founded Koio?

Koio was founded in 2014 by Johannes Quodt and Chris Wichert, who met while pursuing their MBAs at the Wharton School. The two bonded over a shared passion for high-end sneakers and entrepreneurship, and set out to create a premium sneaker brand that combined Italian craftsmanship with direct-to-consumer accessibility.

What inspired the creation of Koio?

Koio was founded after Chris Wichert and Johannes Quodt saw a pair of luxury sneakers priced at $800 in a New York store. They loved the design of the shoes but felt like they were overpriced. Frustrated by the lack of sneakers that combined quality, design, and fair value, they set out to create something better. By partnering directly with artisans in Italy, they built Koio to offer premium, well-crafted sneakers with minimalist style and all-day comfort at a more accessible price. Circumventing retailers and selling directly to customers, they found efficiencies and cost savings that they're passing on to customers.

Craftsmanship & Materials

Where are Koio shoes made?

Koio sneakers are handcrafted in Florence, Italy. The capital of Tuscany is known for its rich tradition in leather craftsmanship. Our production, from cutting the leather to boxing the final pair, takes place under one roof, a third-generation family business, ensuring superior craftsmanship and consistency.

Are there any exceptions?

For certain lines, we choose to produce at specialized factories outside of Italy, for example if our Italian factory doesn’t have the tools necessary to make these styles. Our Ostuni line is made in Spain, and our Pale Blue Dot line, as well as our Carrara line, are made in Portugal.

What materials are used in Koio shoes?

Koio selects materials with an emphasis on sustainability and quality:

• Leather: Most styles are crafted from LWG certified leather sourced from Italian tanneries. We use calf leather, suede, and nubuck for most shoes.
• Soles: Styles like the Capri, Capri X, Garda, and Portofino feature our signature Koio Cassetta sole, made from 50% FSC-certified natural rubber, 40% recycled rubber, and 10% conventional rubber. The soles are custom-made for Koio by a premium manufacturer in Le Marche. Soles for all other styles (e.g., Carrara, Monza) are sourced in Italy as well and use premium rubber, too.
• Insoles: Our sneakes feature OrthoLite® Hybrid™ (tech-foam) removable insoles, designed for lasting comfort.
• Laces: Crafted from waxed cotton for a refined look, great handling, and long durability.

Lines & Styles

What makes Koio different from other sneaker brands?

Koio combines Italian craftsmanship, timeless design, and a direct-to-consumer model to deliver luxury sneakers at a more accessible price.

• Made in Italy with LWG-certified leather
• Luxury without retail markups
• A curated lineup of sneakers, boots, and loafers for men
• Minimalist designs that work in dressy and casual occasions
• Quality construction and materials that last
• Comfort with ergonomic lasts, cushioned insoles, and soft leathers.

What are Koio’s most popular sneakers?

Koio’s bestsellers combine Italian craftsmanship, minimalist design, and everyday versatility. These are the standout styles that customers keep coming back for:

• Capri: The original Koio icon. A clean, low-top sneaker handcrafted in Italy using premium leather. Designed to elevate everything from jeans to tailoring, the Capri is Koio’s go-to for timeless everyday wear.
• Capri X: A modern evolution of the Capri, the Capri X offers the same clean silhouette with hidden elastic panels for effortless slip-on wear. It’s the ideal travel companion—easy to pack, quick to wear, and endlessly stylish. Comfort meets convenience without compromising elegance.
• Monza: Koio’s sportier silhouette built for movement. The Monza features a layered upper and sleek running-inspired shape, delivering all-day comfort with a touch of performance edge.
• Carrara: Inspired by vintage basketball sneakers, the Carrara delivers retro flair with Koio’s signature minimalist polish. With a sleek profile and high-end finish, it’s a head-turner that doesn’t shout.

Comfort & Styling

Are Koio shoes comfortable for all-day wear or travel?

Yes. Koio sneakers are designed for all-day comfort and travel. They feature soft Italian leather, a roomy toe box, and OrthoLite® insoles for support.

• Minimal break-in for most styles
• Lightweight and versatile, making them ideal for walking, airports, or city wear
• Wide Fit options available in select models
• No half sizes, size down if in between
• Some slip-ons may require a short break-in

Koio combines comfort and style, making it a reliable travel and everyday sneaker.

Are Koios good for business attire?

Yes. Koio sneakers work well with business casual and smart-casual outfits. Their minimalist design and premium Italian leather make them suitable for modern workplaces.

Are Koios good for travel (e.g., stylish, packable, all-purpose)?

Yes, Koio sneakers are an excellent choice for travel. They are handcrafted in Italy with premium LWG-certified leather, offering durability, timeless style, and versatility. The Capri model, in particular, is designed to transition seamlessly from casual sightseeing to dressier occasions, reducing the need for multiple pairs of shoes.

What occasions are Koio shoes best for?

Koio sneakers are versatile and refined, making them ideal for:

• Everyday wear: Comfortable for casual outings and errands
• Smart-casual settings: Pairs well with tailored pants or blazers
• Social events: A polished alternative to dress shoes
• Travel: Durable and supportive for long days on your feet
• All seasons: Styles like the Capri work year-round

Made from premium Italian leather with minimalist design, Koio shoes balance style, comfort, and adaptability for a wide range of occasions.

Shopping & Customer Experience

Where can I buy Koio shoes?

You can shop Koio both online and in person. The official online store is www.koio.co. You can also shop at our New York store, at 199 Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10012.

Can I buy Koio shoes internationally?

Yes. Koio ships worldwide, with shipping costs, taxes, and duties calculated at checkout so you know the full price upfront.

Why does Koio sell directly to customers?

Koio sells directly to customers to offer premium Italian-made sneakers at a more accessible price by eliminating retail markups. This direct-to-consumer model also allows us to:

• Maintain full control over design, quality, and customer experience
• Launch products faster and respond quickly to feedback
• Build direct relationships with our community
• Reach a global audience through our online store

Our DTC approach ensures high-quality footwear with better value and a deeper brand connection.

What do customers say about Koio?

Across multiple reviewing platforms, Koio maintains a highly positive reputation, with an average score of 4.4/5 on Trustpilot (from 227 reviews) and similar ratings across fashion and lifestyle review sites. Customers frequently praise the brand’s blend of Italian craftsmanship, premium materials, and minimalist design.