The KOIO Capri runs slightly large, but KOIO only offers full sizes. You should either order your true size, or if you’re a half size (like a 10.5), get the closest size down. For example, if you normally wear a size 10 sneaker, get the size 10 KOIO Capri. If you normally wear a 10.5, then you should also get the size 10 KOIO Capri.
KOIO can really throw you for a loop with their lack of half sizes.
It can trip a lot of people up and stop them from buying. I’m a huge fan of the Capri (mine are in the Triple White leather), and I think everyone who wants a pair should get them.
So to make it a little easier, I put together a KOIO sizing guide so you can make sure you pick the correct size for your Capri sneakers the first time.
Table of Contents
Does KOIO Fit True to Size?
KOIO shoes have an interesting fit and shape, and that can make getting the correct size more tricky than for many other brands.
Add the fact that they don’t carry half-sizes, but they do carry a few wide sizes, and it’s pure mayhem out there.
KOIO sneakers are relatively long, so that actually gives you more room in front of your toe to work with.
Generally speaking, the KOIO Capri fits true to size.
So if you normally wear a size 9 in sneakers, the size 9 KOIO Capri should fit you well.
But it can be confusing if you normally wear a size 9.5. Do you get the 9 or the 10?
If you’re a half-size, order the next smallest size. Example: if you’re a 9.5 in sneakers, get the size 9 Capri.
The KOIO Capri is an incredible sneaker. It demolishes the Common Projects Achilles in my opinion. That said, I don’t know if it’s worth the nearly $300 price tag---I think you're better off with the Thursday Premier for value. You may want to consider the KOIO Capri if budget isn’t a big determining factor for you and you just want the best possible quality.
You know how some brands of t-shirts run a bit on the larger side and others on the smaller side? Well the KOIO Capri tends a bit toward the larger side. I don’t recommend sizing down at all if you’re normally a full size (i.e. getting a size 8 when you normally wear a size 9).
But it’s not a deal breaker if you’re a half-size. You’ll almost certainly still feel comfortable in the next size down.
Should I size down for KOIO?
If you’re a half-size foot (like an 11.5) then you should get the next smallest KOIO size (11). If you’re a whole size, then you shouldn’t size down. Get your normal, true size.
There is a caveat to this sizing advice, and if you’re particularly worried about the lack of half-sizes, you have another option.
KOIO carries wide sizes in a few of their leathers. So what does that mean?
What’s the Difference Between KOIO Wide and Regular?
KOIO wide sizes are about a quarter-inch wider at the waist and forefoot than their regular sizes, and they also have a bit more room in the instep.
From a style perspective, the shape looks the same—you’re not ruining the slim minimalist look at all if you choose a wide Capri.
These wide sizes can be clutch for guys with half-sized feet. If you’re a half-size foot, like a size 10.5, you can get the 10 wide Capri and the fit will be great.
Because KOIO’s are long, you don’t need to worry about the tips of your toes cramming in the toe box.
While the wide sizes offer a good option for guys with half-sized feet, I’ll say this: I’m a 10.5 sneaker size and I picked up my KOIO Capri in a size 10 and they’re some of the most comfortable minimalist sneakers I own.
The KOIO Capri is an incredible sneaker. It demolishes the Common Projects Achilles in my opinion. That said, I don’t know if it’s worth the nearly $300 price tag---I think you're better off with the Thursday Premier for value. You may want to consider the KOIO Capri if budget isn’t a big determining factor for you and you just want the best possible quality.
Do KOIO Shoes Break In?
There is a short break in period with KOIO shoes. The Vitello leather plus leather lining will crease and break in as you wear your sneaks around town.
The insole is an open cell PU foam, so there’s not much in the insole that needs to break in before your sneakers feel comfortable.
I didn’t experience any soreness or blisters with my KOIOs. A big part of that has to do with the soft chrome tanned leather in the Triple White color. Other leather options have different tanning procedures that may make them a little more stiff out of the box.
If you’re concerned about blisters, bring a few bandaids with you the first time you wear your new KOIOs. I didn’t have any problems at all—mine were immediately comfortable for long walking distances. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Minimal Sneakers, Minimal Trouble
To sum it up: the KOIO Capri is true to size, and is longer in the toe than many other brands.
Because of this, you should order your regular size (i.e. if you’re normally a size 11, get a size 11 KOIO).
If you’re a half-size, choose the next smallest size (a size 10.5 should get a size 10).
If you have wide feet, or E-EE width on the Brannock device, then you should look at KOIO’s wide sizes.
There are fewer leather options, but the basics like white, black, and tan should have a few wide sizes available.
If you’re really worried about the lack of half-sizes, get the next smallest size in a wide. A good example is: you’re a size 11.5, so you get a size 11 wide in the Capri.
Personally, I’m a size 10.5 and I picked up the size 10 (standard width) and I think my KOIO Capris are really comfortable.
The KOIO Capri is an incredible sneaker. It demolishes the Common Projects Achilles in my opinion. That said, I don’t know if it’s worth the nearly $300 price tag---I think you're better off with the Thursday Premier for value. You may want to consider the KOIO Capri if budget isn’t a big determining factor for you and you just want the best possible quality.
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