Customer Reviews Taos Footwear Universe

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Rating Summmary:

218 total reviews
Taos Footwear Universe

Review Breakdown:

62%5Rated 5 stars out of 5

15%4Rated 4 stars out of 5

14%3Rated 3 stars out of 5

5%2Rated 2 stars out of 5

5%1Rated 1 star out of 5

Customer Fit Survey:

88%"Felt true to size"

93%"Felt true to width"

63%"Moderate arch support"

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Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
I am very happy with Taos' Universe sandal. Right out of the box it was comfortable. I usually "test drive" a new style of shoe by wearing it for a limited time and then switching off to a pair of shoes that are broken in. These shoes are so comfortable that I never switched off to another pair. They are very comfortable to walk in for long periods of time. The platform height is great, the support is great, and they are nice and cushy. I love the camel color I purchased; it's a great neutral for anyone's wardrobe. My only complaint with all styles of Taos sandals (and I have a LOT of Taos sandals) is that they make the straps exactly the length of the velcro on the base. That's great if your feet are exactly that size. If you want to adjust to fit a higher arch or larger foot, the short strap leaves the bottom velcro exposed. This in turn catches fuzz and sometimes snags clothing. I wish the manufacturer would make the top strap just a little longer to account for this. Even though I just made a small criticism of these shoes, I recommend people buy this style. It is so very comfortable.
I'd also recommend:
Naot, Dansko
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
My sister told me about these sandals. I looked at the price and said, "I don't think I'm paying that much for a pair of sandals." She bought a pair last year and wore them all through Scandinavia. In the end I gave in and decided to buy these shoes and boy am I happy I followed through. I got them in the mail today and they are the most comfortable sandal I've ever worn. I'm in my 60's, wear a size 10 M and have a high arch, so I bought the 41 M. This pair of shoes is so comfortable I don't want to take them off! I'm walking around the house in them now. My normal shoe routine is to take off my shoes when I step inside the door as I hate to wear shoes. But, oh no...these are keepers. I plan to wear them on a trip to South America next week where the cobblestone are uneven. This is a great product...and I'm sure I will be looking at more Taos brand shoes in the future. And Zappos...I love your fast and reliable shipping!
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
These are THE MOST COMFORTABLE SHOES that I have ever worn! Beautifully made with soft, supple leather, multiple adjustment points with two Velcro closures, nicely appointed. The heel strap has soft padding where it comes in contact with the back of the foot. Love the low height as it is easy to walk in and allows you to wear these shoes with pants, crops, shorts and skirts/dresses. Definitely more of a casual than a dressy sandal. I liked them so well that I purchased these shoes in multiple colors (gray, navy and tan). I have gotten rid of all my shoes with heels and replaced them with these shoes, as I had my knee replaced last year and needed something that won't put undue pressure on my knee when walking or standing. Plenty of arch support. The tread is nicely textured for better traction. The shoe is flexible yet supportive. I highly recommend!
I'd also recommend:
Naot, Vionic
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
These are the best sandals/shoes that I have ever owned. Worth the money. They are so soft - like walking on clouds but offer great support. Fit my 11N foot perfect. With my flat, thin, narrow foot I tend to battle with plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia. I can walk for miles and miles in these. Just wish I could find a closed shoe as comfortable as these.
Overall1Rated 1 star out of 5
Comfort1Rated 1 star out of 5
Style1Rated 1 star out of 5
Review for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
This was a fantastic shoe until it broke. It came apart at the seams after 6 months -- which according to Zappos was normal wear and tear. I have another pair of Taos shoes that have worn beautifully for much longer. These shoes for $169 should not break that quickly - especially when I don't wear them that often. In the photo below, you can tell the leather isn't even worn very much. Bad stitching.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
I put these on and immediately did not want to take them off, ever! They are insanely comfortable. The leather is so soft, they are very lightweight and look great. These shoes are perfect for my narrow feet and high arches which is so hard to find. The amazing Velcro straps with faux buckles(super cool) are so much better than having to poke extra holes in straps to get the buckles tight enough to stay on my heels. The soles are great for walking around Europe’s cobblestone streets or any surface. They are pricier than I would usually spend on sandals but you pay for what you get and these sandals are proof.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
Overall, this is an excellent shoe. Typically, I buy Dansko or SAS exclusively, but this summer, I needed a pair of sandals with a lower heel (and no platforms) but I still wanted great arch support, since I have high arches and also a high instep. I couldn't find anything in Dansko or SAS, and then I remembered Taos. I don't have a wide foot, but I tried this pair in both a regular and wide width and decided to go with the wide, for that extra bit of room when doing a lot of walking in hot weather. The arch support is excellent despite the heel height being relatively low. And the fact that there is no platform aspect to it gives you a solid contact with the ground and a lot of stability. No worry about getting the front of the shoe caught in sidewalk pavers, cobblestones, etc. and less worry about twisted ankles. The back strap has soft extra padding in the heel and the leather itself is very soft all over. They were comfortable from the start, and I used them immediately for extensive walking (7+miles a day for vacation walking). I also liked that they were made in Spain (i.e., not China). The sole material that covers the wedge looks pretty thin and I was skeptical at first how it might wear, but have no fear, it can withstand a lot of walking! My pair shows no signs of wearing down and I am no longer concerned about it. My only complaint with this shoe is that after having them for a little over a month, the stitching on one of the ankle straps started separating from the leather (see picture). At first, about two weeks ago, the strap would come suddenly undone. I just re-closed the strap and figured I didn't have it secured completely, or that I must have been walking funny and caught the toe of one shoe on the heel of the other. It might have happened once a day or so, and then maybe a little more frequently. Today, it happened several times in a row and when I finally looked at the strap, I realized that the stitching was pulling out. If the shoes hadn't been so new, I would have taken them to a shoe repair to get fixed, but with them being only a month old (and really not getting a lot of wear and tear on the straps in that time) I was hoping Zappos could fix this, which they did. The customer service gal generously offered to send out a replacement pair, which I should have in a few days. She suggested I could donate this pair, which I am happy to do. Hopefully the new pair will not have this problem. Velcro has a lot of flexibility but with metal buckles, we didn't have to worry about the stitching being vulnerable. Thanks to Taos for a great shoe for those of us with high arches and to Zappos for excellent customer service!
I'd also recommend:
SAS, Dansko
Overall1Rated 1 star out of 5
Comfort3Rated 3 stars out of 5
Style1Rated 1 star out of 5
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Poor SupportGreat Support
I bought the sandals in July. I don’t wear them everyday, and I’m 4’11 at 100 lbs. How does the leather break and I lost the attaching band??????
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
This is a great sandal. This is my second pair, I wore them to death last summer. Obviously not a walking on dirt type of sandal but very comfortable for so many other places. I have a wide foot and a high arch and this was true to size and comfortable for me. I highly recommend the shoe.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
I really like them! They’re super comfortable and they will go with different outfits. Love this style! I’m a true 9.5 & got a size 40, was a perfect fit.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Style4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
Fits perfectly. I like the style. Definitely a slightly dressier casual comfort sandal. I buy a pair of Taos sandals every summer, which lasts a long time in Georgia, and never wear anything else. This year, I am getting 2 pair. This one and a pair of SAS that are even more comfortable and pretty cute for being a comfort sandal. They are probably not dressy by anyone else's standards, but since I am retired and live in shorts and a tank top all summer, these will work well enough with a casual summer dress. If my feet are not happy, I am not happy.
I'd also recommend:
SAS, Merrell, Altra,
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
I was between sizes, but went up because the multiple straps are so great for customizing the fit and making it secure on your foot. This is my 2nd pair of these shoes (different color this time). I purchased them for a trip to Europe as you can walk miles in these sandals!
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
These have serious arch support. If you are not in the market for that, skip this brand. However if you, like me, need serious arch support, then Taos will be for you. I find these shoes need some time to break in the arch support. I made the mistake of heading out in a pair for the day when they were new. Ouch. I’ve been wearing them around the house to break them in and they are getting more and more comfy. I know they will be a great shoe to have in my closet. I am so grateful for this stylish sandal that has arch support. Because I cannot wear a shoe without that support and so many orthotic sandals are fugly. Thank you, Taos.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
Great right out of the box! I love Taos sandals! I own several pairs of the Trophy style. This is my first pair of the Universe (very similar to Trulie) style. The Universe style is great! The footbed and cork wedge provide a lot of cushion as well as support. I wore them on a weekend trip where I did a lot of walking (some on cobblestone pavement), and my feet stayed happy. The adjustable straps let me customize the fit, and they never rubbed a sore spot. I bought the camel color, which is so flexible in your wardrobe. My only criticism about the Universe style (and all other Taos sandals) is that they need to make the velcro straps longer. If you adjust the straps for a wider/taller foot, then one side of the velcro is exposed. This is annoying because it is scratchy if you brush your foot across it. (I wish, wish, WISH Taos would address this issue.) Other than that minor complaint, these are very cute and comfy sandals that will take you anywhere and everywhere you want to go!
I'd also recommend:
Naot, Dansko, Mephisto
Overall2Rated 2 stars out of 5
Comfort1Rated 1 star out of 5
Style1Rated 1 star out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
I ordered a size 38 and was so hopeful that this sandal would fit. I have touchy feet, but these sandals are heavy and seem kind of clunky... Thank goodness for Zappos and their wonderful return policy!
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
This is my second pair. The first pair lasted almost 2 years with almost daily wearing. I teach and live in Florida, so this is my go to school for both work and play. They took a beating; the classroom floor, the beaches, river water and more. I probably mistreated them! I wore the soles off and at the same time the Velcro straps stopped working. But I got my money's worth. I have tried others that are 'cheaper' than these, but decided to go ahead and buy them again - the comfort is great. I have arthritis, tendinitis, and other foot problems and these shoes mitigate all those problems. The podiatrist recommended the cork sole to provide the support needed and I was sold after just a few days of wearing pair number 1. I just hope to get 2 years out of pair two, too!
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
These are the most supportive and comfortable sandals in my closet! Excellent quality plus they’re cute, considering they’re a “comfort” sandal. I got them to wear with a casual dress but they look good with shirts and pants too. Once the weather warms up, I’ll be living in these!
I'd also recommend:
Naot, Born
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
The Taos Footwear Universe is an extremely well made shoe and very comfortable! It has great arch support and a nice cushiony footbed. Unfortunately, I have bunions and the leather strap fit in a way that my bunions appeared to stick out even more. I am returning the "Universe" and trying another style in Taos that I hope will work with my bunions better. I had never tried this brand before but I was very impressed with the style and comfort! Thank you Zappos for your incredible service and fast delivery!!
I'd also recommend:
Born, Clarks
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
This a comfortable sandal that looks great with jeans, capris or a dress! I bought it in camel and the UK size recommended at a 38. I wear 61/2 -7, and really thought a 38 might be to long. It fits perfect. Little pricey, but seems like a good quality made shoe.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
Love the sandals, right out of the box. Everything about them: style, comfort, support, color (camel) is great. Every time I wear them, I am complimented on how they look. I used to go barefoot a lot, but my arches nowneed the kind of support this sandal offers. My feet sweat a lot, too, and the foot bed is absorbent and comfortable. Great shoe!
Overall4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
These are nice sandals, but the fasten with velcro. In time, velcro looses it's sticking power, and the shoes will fall off easily, I had this problem with another pair of velcro "snaps." Velcro is not a buckle!
Overall3Rated 3 stars out of 5
Comfort4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Style3Rated 3 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
The fit was fine but the leather straps stretched out quickly. I hardly ever wear them. Way too much money for unwearable shoes.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Review for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
These are the most comfortable sandals I own. I was afraid I wouldn’t like the style, but I love them! I wear a size 7 and they are perfect. I highly recommend them!
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
These are nice. The wide width are actually wide, and they're comfortable and the straps are soft. Not a bad style for a regular sandal either.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Review for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
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Poor SupportGreat Support
Feels really nice right out of the box. I don’t normally spend this much on a pair of sandals but my feet always hurt and I have a very hard time finding comfortable cute sandals. These meet both requirements, comfortable and CUTE
I'd also recommend:
Birkenstock, Merrill, keen

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