Koio’s FAQ Page

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.

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.

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.

Koio was founded after Chris Wichert and Johannes Quodt saw a pair of luxury sneakers priced at $1,000 in a New York store and realized how overpriced high-end footwear could be. 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.

Koio sneakers are handcrafted in Italy, primarily in Florence. Our production, from cutting to boxing, takes place under one roof, ensuring superior craftsmanship and consistency

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.

Koio selects materials with an emphasis on sustainability and quality:

• Leather: Most styles are crafted from LWG certified Italian leather. We use calf leather, suede, and nubuck for most shoes.
• Soles: Styles like the Capri, Capri X, Garda, and Portofino use our Cassetta sole made from 50 percent FSC certified natural rubber, 40 percent recycled rubber, and 10 percent conventional rubber. Other soles, like the one on Monza, may use different blends such as natural rubber for grip and flexibility.
• Insoles: OrthoLite® Hybrid™ (tech-foam) removable insoles, designed for lasting comfort and reduced waste.
• Laces: Crafted from waxed cotton.

Koio maintains ethical standards by:

• Ensuring full craftsmanship in Italy, particularly in skilled, family-run settings.
• Using LWG-certified leather and adhering to sustainable manufacturing protocols.
• Promoting durability and local sourcing to support labor standards and reduce environmental impact

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
• Affordable luxury without retail markups
• A curated lineup of sneakers, boots, and loafers for men
• Minimalist design built to last
• Comfort-focused with cushioned insoles and soft linings

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.

• True to Size: Koio sneakers generally fit true to a whole U.S. size.
• No Half Sizes: If you're between sizes (e.g., 9.5), it’s best to size down to the nearest whole size.
• Wide Fit Available: Certain models offer an E-width (wide fit) for those needing more room in the toe and instep.
• Leather Molds Over Time: Premium leather softens and adapts to your foot shape with wear, adding comfort.

Koio sneakers have a standard D-width fit, which suits most foot shapes.

• Narrow feet (B/C): May feel slightly roomy. Sizing down or adding insoles can help.
• Standard feet (D): True to size.
• Wide feet (E): Select styles, like the Capri, offer a Wide Fit (E-width) with more room in the toe and midfoot.
• Very wide feet (EE+): Koio may feel too snug, even in Wide Fit.

Note: Koio doesn’t offer half sizes. If you’re in between, size down for a better fit. All models soften slightly with wear but won’t stretch significantly.

Yes. Koio sneakers, especially the Capri, 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.

Yes. Koio sneakers, especially clean styles like the Capri Triple White, work well with business casual and smart-casual outfits. Their minimalist design and premium Italian leather make them suitable for modern workplaces that allow relaxed tailoring.

Best for:

• Creative or casual office settings
• Pairing with chinos, trousers, or unstructured suits
• Travel and meetings where comfort matters

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.

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.

Koio sneakers are water-resistant, meaning they handle light rain and splashes with ease, but aren’t meant for heavy rain or puddles. For added protection and to keep your shoes looking their best, we recommend following the steps in our Care Guide.

• Made from tightly stitched materials, like leather or suede, they handle light rain and splashes well.
• Eco Protect spray is recommended to enhance resistance and protect against stains (implied from care guidance). Please refer to the care guide.

Most stains or dirt on Koio shoes can be removed. It is important to use a cleaning method that matches the specific material. Please refer to our Care Guide for detailed instructions.

For more detailed tips on caring for leather, suede, and slip-ons, check out our full Care Guide.

Koio sneakers are water-resistant, meaning they can handle light rain, everyday snow, or brief exposure to moisture. However, they are not waterproof and aren’t meant for snow, heavy rain and deep puddles.

For added protection, apply Koio’s Eco Protect spray to create a water-resistant barrier and help shield your shoes from the elements. Please refer to our Care Guide for detailed instructions on how to protect your Koios.

Yes, Koio sneakers are an excellent fit for minimalist and capsule wardrobes.

• Clean, timeless design: Their sleek aesthetic and understated branding make them seamlessly mixable with multiple looks, from casual to refined.
• Versatile staples: Editors describe the Capri as a “wardrobe workhorse” that easily transitions across settings.
• Craftsmanship and longevity: Handcrafted in Italy using premium materials, Koio offers durability and reduces the need or desire for constant replacements.
• Capsule wardrobe favorites: Capsule wardrobe guides list Koio among top brands for minimalist wardrobes due to timeless style and sustainability.

In summary, Koio sneakers excel in minimalist and capsule wardrobes thanks to their refined design, versatility, and quality build.

You can shop Koio both online and in person:

Online

• Explore our full range of men’s and women’s sneakers, boots, and accessories

• Enjoy free U.S. shipping on orders over $150 and international delivery

  → Shop at Koio.co

In Stores

• Visit our Koio retail location

• Check availability and hours in our store directory

  → Find a Koio Store

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

• Returns:
  • U.S returns: 14 days, a return label fee applies (waived for store credit).
  • International returns: 14 days, return label fee applies, no exchanges.
  • Pre-orders: 14 days, 50% fee refund only.
• Exchanges: Not available internationally — you’ll need to return and place a new order.
• Payment: Some banks may charge foreign transaction fees, which Koio does not cover.

Shop internationally through our official website.

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.

Yes. Once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking number by email and in your Koio account under “My Orders.” Please allow 24–48 hours for tracking updates to appear.

Shipping Details

• Orders are processed in 1–2 business days
• U.S. delivery: 1–5 business days after shipment
• Pre-orders: Ship in about 4–6 weeks, with tracking emailed once dispatched

If Tracking Is Missing

Check your Koio account first. If it’s not there, contact [email protected] or use live chat with your order details.

You can return most unused Koio sneakers within 14 days of delivery, as long as they’re unworn, unaltered, and in their original packaging.

Return fees, exchange options, and eligibility for sale or international orders may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit our Return Policy.

• Order Processing: 1–2 business days; excludes weekends and U.S. holidays.
• U.S. Shipping:
  • Free ground shipping for orders over $150; transit usually takes 1–5 business days.
  • Expedited and express shipping options are available for an extra fee.
• International Shipping:
  • Similar 1–2 day processing time.
  • Transit time varies—typically 8–16+ business days depending on destination and customs.

Note: Customs fees may apply for international orders. Shipping times may be longer during holidays or sales.

For help, email [email protected] or see our full Shipping Guide.

You can reach Koio support in two ways:

• Email: [email protected]: responses usually within 24 hours
• Live Chat: Available on koio.co from 10 AM–6 PM EST, seven days a week

For faster help, include your order number, the email used at checkout, and details about your issue (with photos if applicable).

Koio typically responds to emails and live chat within 24 hours (support hours: 10 AM–6 PM EST, daily).

• Order emails (confirmation, shipping, tracking) are sent automatically within 1–2 business days of processing.
• Returns and refunds are processed within 3–5 business days after receipt; refunds may take up to 10 business days to appear, depending on your bank.

What do customers say about Koio?

Across multiple reviewing platforms, Koio maintains a highly positive reputation, with an average score of 4.6/5 on Trustpilot (from 190 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.