Toms Shoes: A Pair for Me, a Pair for You

Credit: TOMS Shoes

TOMS Shoes cover your feet, and those of a child in need

TOMS Shoes in the midst of Vancouver’s wet season? Do-gooder feet don’t have to be soggy feet

In Vancouver, there are shoe stores everywhere we turn. We are surrounded by options and choices for our various footwear needs, but such is not the case in all parts of the world unfortunately. 

TOMS Shoes’ Vision: No More Bare Feet!

When you buy a pair of TOMS shoes, one pair is given to a child in need.

To address the lack of footwear in the developing world—inspired by a trip to Argentina—Blake Mycoskie created TOMS Shoes.

His vision goes a little something like this: With every pair of TOMS shoes you purchase, one pair is given to a child in need.

The shoes are made in Argentina using recycled texture twill, soft faux suede (insole) and a recycled rubber blend (sole).

I was annoyed to hear that some of the materials are sourced from China. When asked, TOMS was unclear as to how much of the material is from China and how much is from Argentina, where the shoes are made.

That said, I have read in several places (here for example) that TOMS shoes are made from recycled materials whenever possible. I also know that they go to great lengths to ensure fair labour conditions for all their employees.

They even employ third parties to audit their factories so that all standards of safety and fairness are met.  

But Do TOMS Shoes Stand up to BC’s Wet Weather?

As you may know, we British Columbians have to deal with wet weather conditions quite regularly. TOMS Shoes are not waterproof nor are they coated with any chemicals to make them water resistant.

TOMS Shoes, Vegan Edition

TOMS Shoes also offers a line of vegan-friendly shoes and boots. However, the waxed canvas styles are more naturally weather resistant.

TOMS Shoes are perfect for drier days or wearing indoors—and many say they are particularly good for travelling in warmer climates.

TOMS are available at participating Aritzia and Off the Wall stores, or online at tomsshoes.ca.