Best Tie Dye Shoes Reviewed & Rated

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Keen Newport Retro
Test Winner: Keen Newport Retro
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Like most people, you probably think of tie-dye as a fashion trend that was spawned during the hippie era of the 1970s. Despite its hippie roots, tie-dye has gone on to become a part of modern fashion and, while maintaining its fun-loving and care-free association, it’s also transcended into styles more fitting to the times. Tie-dye shoes come in all shapes and sizes and are manufactured by some of the biggest names in footwear like Converse, Vans, and Keen.

Standout Picks

Converse CT High Top
The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star comes in a variety of colors including a unique tie-dye pattern. These shoes have a popular high-top design and a traditional lace closure for a customized fit every time you wear them. The All-Star is a lightweight and no-fuss pair of sneakers that offer breathable comfort and trend-setting style.
Amazon Link
Keen Newport Retro
Keens' Newport Retro is an athletic sandal with the added flare of tie-dye detailed straps. Made to keep you cool, comfortable, and well protected, the Newport Retro is guaranteed to impress and have you coming back for more over and over again.
Amazon Link
Nike Stefan Janoski MAX
An American skateboarder, Stefan Janoski has teamed up with Nike to create these wild looking sneakers. Not only are they bright and made to stand out, but the Phylon midsole and herringbone patterned outsole will keep you going all day, thanks to their respective support and traction qualities.
Amazon Link
Converse All Star Tie Dye
This seasons' Chuck Taylor All-Star from Converse has everyone talking about its bold and beautiful tie-dye design. This is a low-top sneaker that has it all; comfort, breathability, and a buzz-worthy design that you're sure to fall in love with.
Amazon Link
Merrell Riveter Knit
The Merrell Riveter Knit Sneaker is a fashionable athletic shoe that's available in a few color options, including a gorgeous blue and green toned tie-dye pattern. These eye-catching sneakers are a great choice for a comfortable and stylish athletic shoe.
Amazon Link
Hot Chocolate Mary Jane
The Mary Jane from Hot Chocolate is a versatile pair of flats that ladies everywhere adore. Their vibrant colors and tie-dye design will fast become your go-to favorite for casual outings and summer siestas. The Mary Jane is the ideal combination of comfort and style that pairs well with almost any outfit.
Amazon Link
Crocs Bistro
The Bistro is a bold and colorful clog from Crocs that lets you express yourself through your footwear. These clogs were made for work in the hospitality and healthcare industries, though they're equally as comfortable and stylish for anyone to wear.
Amazon Link
New Balance Alpha
The New Balance Alpha is part of the WL574 Alpha running collection which was designed for the warm summer sunshine. These all-over graphic runners are super-stylish and unique while offering the kind of comfort and performance enhancement we're used to in a New Balance shoe.
Amazon Link
White Mountain Sandal
The White Mountain Sandal, "Holland" boasts several sparkly, tye-die colors and comfortable design. These sandals are perfect to pair with blue jeans or a skirt and are classy enough for a girl's brunch or a romantic candlelit dinner for two.
Amazon Link
Chaco Z/2 Classic
The Z/2 Classic by Chaco is an ultra 'hippiesque' and laid-back sandal that's lovely tie-dye detailing and unique design make for a truly original pair of footwear that you'll always want to wear. These sandals prove to be an updated image of the Woodstock-approved apparel from the 1970s and deliver incredible comfort in a free-flowing yet delicate package.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Durability

Durability is an important factor in choosing a shoe, especially when taking the long-term into consideration. A shoe's value is directly linked to durability; it makes little sense to spend a good deal of money on a shoe, only for them to wear out or become damaged in a short period. Let's take a look at some of the most important things to consider when assessing the overall durability of a shoe.

  • Outsole: Nothing is worse than finding that there is a hole in the bottom on your shoe, especially if you find out the hard way by stepping in a puddle or some snow. Not okay. This is especially important if you plan on doing a lot of walking in them. As such, we've taken care to only choose products with a strong and durable outsole, to ensure that this doesn't happen to you. In the event, the outsoles do begin to wear out, check out the "Sources" section, where we have listed a guide from our friends at iFixIt that will show you the best way to repair the sole.
  • Insole: Your feet are the foundation of your body, and by extension, your shoes. After a while, the insole of a shoe can be to compress due to the constant pressure on it from being worn for extended periods. Some insoles will wear out more quickly than others, though the average time it takes is 12-18 months. Look for a shoe with a removable insole, this way in the event they do start to wear out and compress, you can fix it without having to buy a new pair. Let your comfort level be your guide; if you begin to feel like your shoes aren't as supportive as they used to be, it may be time to consider replacing the insole.
  • Color Integrity: Tie-dye shoes are made with a special process, and as such you need to take care to ensure that the colors won't bleed or fade. While any shoe is going to get at least a little dirty over time, it's important to choose a shoe that won't show stains too much or experience color bleeding or fading. Because of the unique dye method, the color on tie-dye shoes may start to fade if left in the sun for too long, so take care not to leave them outside by accident on a bright day. In the FAQ section, we've outlined some basics on how to clean your shoes and keep them in their best form.
  • Style

    Tie-dye may appear to be random splashes of color strewn about your shoes with no rhyme-nor-reason, but that’s not always the case. Tie dye is made using one of four distinct patterns: bullseye, stripes, spiral, or random. Each pattern has its own unique appearance which is further explained below;

  • Stripes: Striped tie-dye includes either horizontal or vertical stripes which are made by pleating the material into multiple small folds which forces the dye to spread laterally across the fabric.
  • Bullseye: Bullseye patterns have a center point that is bound in a certain fashion to create rings of color. These color rings will often be different colors creating a vibrant rainbow of rings.
  • Spiral: Spiral patterned tie dye is made by swirling the fabric into a round bun shape, similar to a cinnamon bun. Different areas of the bun are dyed using different colors.
  • Random: This is the kind of tie-dye that involves randomly dying in several areas of the material with no clear parameters. Random patterns can be busy by design and difficult to produce.
  • Color

    Tie Dye shoes come in all sorts of styles including sandals, sneakers, boots, loafers, and flats though two of the most commonly seen tie-dyed styles of footwear are sandals and sneakers. We included various styles of footwear on this page to fully reflect the range of tie-dye shoes available and to provide a comprehensive list inclusive to all styles.

    Tie dye is all about the colors which is why this was a factor taken into consideration while choosing the shoes for this list. Some of the most popular and vibrant colors used for tie-dye shoes are yellow, red, blue, green, and orange. Shades such as black or grey are traditionally not suitable, and you want to avoid dull or semi-transparent colors.

    Brand

    Back when tie-dye shoes were all about psychedelics branding was the furthest thing from the wearer’s mind, but in today’s world brand power speaks loud and clear. This is precisely why the brand behind the shoe was weighed as a deciding factor for the footwear on this page. Some of the big names in fashion footwear have dabbled in the world of impressionable shoes including;

  • Vans
  • Converse
  • Keen
  • Nike
  • Crocs
  • These brands are household names that are synonymous with quality craftsmanship and trend-setting designs which is part of the reason for their consideration. When you buy a pair of shoes from one of the above manufacturers, you’re investing in a comfortable and long-lasting item that will have you looking on-pointe no matter what message you’re trying to convey.

    Comfort

    Comfort is of vital importance with any pair of footwear, including tie-dye shoes. If a shoe is uncomfortable, it can lead to all sorts of problems including leg, foot, hip, and back pain, which is why it’s so crucial that a person wears comfortable shoes. The following aspects of a shoe contribute to the overall enjoyability of wear;

  • Arch Support
  • Underfoot Protection
  • Cushioned Footbed
  • Non-Slip Outsole
  • Secure Fastening
  • Materials Used
  •  

    The arch of the foot is very delicate and can easily end up causing all sorts of painful discomfort which is why having adequate arch support is imperative. A padded footbed will cushion the shock absorption felt by the underside of the foot and prevent shock waves from traveling through the feet and up the legs. Feet become tired and achy if they’re not properly protected from shock and well-cushioned from the hard surface beneath them. If a shoe doesn’t fit properly it can flop up and down causing friction that leads to painful blisters which is why a secure fastening system is always recommended in a closed toe shoe and having a non-slip outsole will prevent any accidental slips or falls.

    If a shoe is made from heavy materials and doesn’t allow for proper ventilation your feet will overheat causing them to sweat inside of your shoes. When a build-up of sweat begins it won’t be long before you start to notice an unpleasant odor coming from your shoes. This is why having a shoe that wicks moisture away from the skin and allows for good airflow around the foot is a must! A good choice of material for controlling odors is leather, which naturally pulls moisture away from the skin and is a very lightweight breathable material.

    10 Best Tie-Dye Shoes

    1. Converse CT High Top

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Converse CT High Top
    Amazon Link

    The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star comes in a variety of colors including a unique tie-dye pattern. These shoes have a popular high-top design and a traditional lace closure for a customized fit every time you wear them. The All-Star is a lightweight and no-fuss pair of sneakers that offer breathable comfort and trend-setting style.

    The Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star includes an Ortholite insole that provides a lightweight yet pillow-like cushion for additional comfort. Don't be fooled by the added Ortholite padding because the All-Stars midsole provides a structure that's firm enough for all-day support.

    These high-tops have a traditional lace closure system that allows for total control over their fit, along with medial styled eyelets for added airflow. Their canvas upper unit is lightweight and allows even more air to circulate the foot keeping you cool and dry even after hours out in the hot sun.

    Amazon Link

    2. Keen Newport Retro

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Keen Newport Retro
    Amazon Link

    Keens' Newport Retro is an athletic sandal with the added flare of tie-dye detailed straps. Made to keep you cool, comfortable, and well protected, the Newport Retro is guaranteed to impress and have you coming back for more over and over again.

    The Retro is a waterproof sandal that features a washable webbed upper unit and quick-release bungee-style laces. These easy-wearing and trend-setting summer shoes are made with multi-directional lug traction for a superior grip on any surface and feature a lightweight synthetic sole for an effortless walking experience.

    A protective toe bumper and cushioned EVA midsole lets you enjoy yourself and the way your feet feel while you move. The Newport Retro is made for athletic wear and is designed tough to outlast the competition. These sandals offer excellent arch support and stay securely on your foot thanks to a strappy design and bungee-lace system.

    Amazon Link

    3. Nike Stefan Janoski MAX

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Nike Stefan Janoski MAX
    Amazon Link

    An American skateboarder, Stefan Janoski has teamed up with Nike to create these wild looking sneakers. Not only are they bright and made to stand out, but the Phylon midsole and herringbone patterned outsole will keep you going all day, thanks to their respective support and traction qualities.

    A feature unique to Nike shoes, Phylon is a material made of EVA foam pellets that are heated, compressed, and molded, rather than being one singular piece. This allows for better temperature management within the shoe. This type of midsole is versatile, and thanks to its unique design can b3e molded into a variety of patterns for most any type of shoe.

    No matter what you plan on wearing your shoes for, it’s important for the outsoles to have good traction. Good traction will keep your feet solidly on the ground, even in wet or slick conditions or rougher terrain. Nike shoes have always been great at offering traction, and in these case of these particular shoes, you can think the herringbone tread outsole for that. Herringbone is a unique pattern that allows for superior Traction while looking stylish.

    Amazon Link

    4. Converse All Star Tie Dye

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Converse All Star Tie Dye
    Amazon Link

    This seasons' Chuck Taylor All-Star from Converse has everyone talking about its bold and beautiful tie-dye design. This is a low-top sneaker that has it all; comfort, breathability, and a buzz-worthy design that you're sure to fall in love with.

    The All-Star has an Ortholite insole that provides lightweight yet supple cushioning for all-around comfort. Despite the added cushion, Ortholite is firm enough to support the delicate underside of the foot and prevent foot pain and fatigue despite being on your feet for hours on end.

    Everyone's heard of Converse! These shoes are infamous trend-setters with an added twist of tie-dye detailing. Their lace-up and low-top structure makes for a super-cool look that will have heads turning when you walk past.

    Amazon Link

    5. Merrell Riveter Knit

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Merrell Riveter Knit
    Amazon Link

    The Merrell Riveter Knit Sneaker is a fashionable athletic shoe that's available in a few color options, including a gorgeous blue and green toned tie-dye pattern. These eye-catching sneakers are a great choice for a comfortable and stylish athletic shoe.

    The Pact boasts an EVA removable footbed as well as a Merrell Air Cushion in the heel to help absorb shock and give you some added stability. These fun sneakers feature a gorgeous and unique tie-dye pattern that consists of two blues offset by greens.

    The Riveter is made with a knit upper unit that's breathable and pulls moisture away from the skin keeping you cool and dry. A rubber outsole offers slip-resistance so you won't have to worry about accidental slips or falls, while nylon arch shank gives you some much-needed support on your jobs or hikes.

    Amazon Link

    6. Hot Chocolate Mary Jane

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Hot Chocolate Mary Jane
    Amazon Link

    The Mary Jane from Hot Chocolate is a versatile pair of flats that ladies everywhere adore. Their vibrant colors and tie-dye design will fast become your go-to favorite for casual outings and summer siestas. The Mary Jane is the ideal combination of comfort and style that pairs well with almost any outfit.

    The Mary Jane features a tie-dye upper unit that's vibrant and oh-so-colorful. Its flat structure and dainty silhouette are perfect for ladies on the go, while their cross-foot strap and buckle closure ensures they stay firmly in place for a secure fit.

    Made with a printed fabric upper unit and supple fabric lining, these Hot Chocolate flats are an ideal shoe for warmer weather and provide a desirable next-to-skin feel. The Mary Jane features a non-marking rubber outsole that offers excellent grip and is safe for wear on delicate flooring.

    Amazon Link

    7. Crocs Bistro

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Crocs Bistro
    Amazon Link

    The Bistro is a bold and colorful clog from Crocs that lets you express yourself through your footwear. These clogs were made for work in the hospitality and healthcare industries, though they're equally as comfortable and stylish for anyone to wear.

    The Crocs Bistro Clog is designed with safety in mind and features Crocs-Lock slip-resistant tread and additional protection for the delicate front of the foot. Walk with a sure foot thanks to the Bistros sturdy closed-toe structure and heel-strap closure for a no-flop fit every time you wear them.

    Iconic Crocs Comfort comes in the form of Croslite foam a lightweight and breathable footbed material used in the construction of their footwear. Croslite provides a sponge-like cushion that is firm enough to support the arch while preventing foot pain and fatigue even after hours spent on your feet.

    Amazon Link

    8. New Balance Alpha

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    New Balance Alpha
    Amazon Link

    The New Balance Alpha is part of the WL574 Alpha running collection which was designed for the warm summer sunshine. These all-over graphic runners are super-stylish and unique while offering the kind of comfort and performance enhancement we're used to in a New Balance shoe.

    The WL574 Alpha is made from the perfect soft synthetic leather and features a rubber outsole that provides superior traction on any surface. Run with peace of mind knowing that your shoes will grip the ground beneath you guaranteeing secure footing.

    These New Balances have a gel-cushioned footbed and an EVA midsole that provides an extra-comfortable wearing experience. The classic 574 sole keeps feet dry by pulling moisture away from the skin and provides a glove-like fit for a no-flop fit every time.

    Amazon Link

    9. White Mountain Sandal

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    White Mountain Sandal
    Amazon Link

    The White Mountain Sandal, "Holland" boasts several sparkly, tye-die colors and comfortable design. These sandals are perfect to pair with blue jeans or a skirt and are classy enough for a girl's brunch or a romantic candlelit dinner for two.

    These sandals have a braided glittering strap matched with adjustable buckles for a classy yet unique appearance. They're made to be walked in and feature a subtly gorgeous tie-dye pattern.

    These comfy sandals have an eco-friendly cork footbed that provides extra comfort and a layer of smooth leather for your feet. Gone are the days of flat feet from wearing sandals thanks to the additional padded enjoyment the 'Holland' has to offer.

    Amazon Link

    10. Chaco Z/2 Classic

    Where to buy
    Amazon Link
    Chaco Z/2 Classic
    Amazon Link

    The Z/2 Classic by Chaco is an ultra 'hippiesque' and laid-back sandal that's lovely tie-dye detailing and unique design make for a truly original pair of footwear that you'll always want to wear. These sandals prove to be an updated image of the Woodstock-approved apparel from the 1970s and deliver incredible comfort in a free-flowing yet delicate package.

    These just may be the comfiest, most foot-friendly pair of sandals ever made! They feature a cushioned rubber footbed and soft cloth straps for an amazing next-to-skin feel. Enjoy total relaxation while wearing a pair of these Chaco sandals.

    The Z/2 Classic is made with a soft wrapped cloth upper unit that feels like you're wrapping your feet in nothing but comfort. If you're in the market for a pair of ultra-lightweight and beyond breathable footwear, then this Sanuk is the answer to your prayers, and it's delivered in a gorgeous pair of thong sandals.

    Amazon Link

    Sources

    1. wonderfuldiy, Show-Stopping Sharpie Tie Dye Shoes – Free Tutorial, Blog Post
    2. Wikipedia, Tie-Dye, Information
    3. Harling Ross, Controversial Opinion: Tie-Dye Is Chic, Blog
    4. Wei Zeng, How to Repair a Hole on the Shoe Sole- iFixIt, How-To Guide