Tieks vs. Rothy’s: Why Tieks Are the Better Option

As someone who loves stylish and comfortable flats, I’ve tried both Tieks shoes and Rothy’s, and while both have their pros and cons, Tieks are hands-down my favorite. After wearing both brands for a while, I’ve found that Tieks outshine Rothy’s in comfort, durability, and overall value.

One of the biggest differences in the Tieks vs. Rothy’s debate is the material. What material are Tieks made of? They’re crafted from high-quality Italian leather, which molds to your feet over time for a perfect fit. In contrast, Rothy’s are made from recycled plastic bottles, which is great for sustainability but I found the fabric to be stiff and not as forgiving on my feet. Tieks shoes feel soft and luxurious, while Rothy’s started to feel scratchy after extended wear.

Comfort is a huge factor for me, and while Rothy’s are lightweight, they lack the cushioning and arch support that Tieks shoes provide. I can wear my Tieks all day without any discomfort, whereas Rothy’s tend to feel flat and unsupportive after a few hours.

When it comes to Tieks sizing, they run true to size for most people but because they’re made of soft leather, they stretch slightly for a custom fit. Rothy’s, on the other hand, have a more rigid structure, and I found that finding the right size was tricky since they don’t stretch to accommodate foot shape.

I’ve owned multiple pairs of Tieks shoes, and they’ve lasted me for years without showing much wear. The leather actually looks better over time! My Rothy’s, however, started looking worn out pretty quickly, especially around the toe area. Plus, Rothy’s can’t be folded like Tieks, making them less convenient for travel.

If you’re torn between Tieks vs. Rothy’s, I’d say go for Tieks. They’re more comfortable, more durable, and feel like a luxury shoe rather than just another pair of flats. While Rothy’s are a decent option for casual wear, Tieks shoes are the better choice if you want a pair of flats that you can wear anywhere—from work to travel to special occasions—without sacrificing style or comfort.

Written by Deborah Allen, posted December 20th 2024