The Oomy Zen has the thickest stack of Oofoam in the Oofos lineup, so it’s no surprise that putting the shoes on feels so good. Dr. Karthas says that’s also due to the way the foam is shaped in the shoe.
The footbed’s high arch provides more surface area for your foot to stay in contact with, which helps distribute pressure more evenly, he says. (Don’t worry: Dr. Karthas adds that just because the footbed has a high arch doesn’t mean you need high arches to wear them.) The foam also hugs your heel, for a secure, snug fit, and has a slight rocker shape to support your natural walking gait.
Meanwhile, the sneaker’s knit upper is like a soft, supportive sock. “Some of the earlier models of Oofos, the upper feels a bit more loose, so you wouldn’t want to do much back-and-forth motion or walking in them,” Dr. Karthas says. “This one’s a lot more snug, so it feels more like a sneaker; it’s much more athletic.”
The Oomy Zen’s sleek, slip-on look is part of the idea behind the shoe, says Oofos senior design manager Sylvian Woodward. If you feel comfortable wearing it out and about, that means you can extend your post-workout recovery that much longer.
Fit and feel
I’ve never felt the sense of immediate relief I had when I put the Oomy Zens on. I don’t have any major foot problems, but I do get general fatigue and pain after lots of standing, and occasionally some plantar fasciitis symptoms. These sneaks felt so good that I made several friends try them on so they could experience it too.
Part of what makes the fit so unique to me is the shoe’s high arch. I can’t speak to what the Zen would be like for those with flat feet, but I’ve rarely felt this kind of support in a shoe.
The fit of the upper is similar to wearing a running shoe, although the Zen has a roomier toe box and a bit more softness. While I wouldn’t do any super intense activities in these shoes, I’d say there’s plenty of stability and support for a walk around the neighborhood or exploring a new city. (Bonus: In addition to being flexible and packable, they’re also machine-washable.)
The bottom line
The Oomy Zen has is my go-to shoe for around the house. They feel great after long runs and busy days, and I’m excited to have them in my recovery arsenal once I get back to marathon training later this year.
You don’t need to be an athlete to wear the Oomy Zens—and Dr. Karthas, who wears them to work, agrees. “Oofos is marketed as recovery, but it doesn’t have to just be recovery from sports,” he says. “I typically recommend these for people who are cashiers and teachers; people who are on hard floors all day and need that impact resistance and are struggling with foot pain.”
They could be a great work sneaker, something to slip on at home, or both. If they’re as comfortable on you as they are on me, I’d say they’re well worth it.
Related:
- Oh-So-Comfy Slip-On Sneakers That Podiatrists Love
- Your Guide to the Best, Most Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Our Favorite, Podiatrist-Approved Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
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