I Live in NYC and Walked 19,552 Steps in NikeSkims Shoes—Here's My Review
Our take

The enduring appeal of the "stylish walking shoe" speaks volumes about the evolving priorities of the modern woman, particularly those navigating the demands of urban life. This recent review of NikeSkims footwear, detailing a staggering 19,552 steps traversed through the concrete canyons of New York City, isn’t just about a product test; it’s a reflection of a broader shift towards prioritizing comfort and practicality without sacrificing aesthetic sensibility. We’ve seen this trend emerge across the fashion landscape, evidenced by the resurgence of ballet flats I’ve Done The Research—According to the Runways, These 6 Autumn Shoe Trends Will Be Everywhere, and the continued emphasis on versatile, office-ready pieces The Fall Workwear Essentials That Make Getting Dressed for the Office Easier. The reviewer's preference for alternatives to sneakers highlights a desire for a more refined and considered approach to everyday footwear—a move away from purely athletic aesthetics and towards something that seamlessly integrates into a curated personal style. It’s about feeling polished and put-together, even while clocking serious miles.
The success of the NikeSkims collaboration itself underscores the power of celebrity-driven lifestyle brands. Kim Kardashian's influence extends far beyond the realm of reality television; she’s cultivated a distinct aesthetic that resonates with a significant audience seeking elevated basics and aspirational, yet attainable, pieces. This review validates the brand’s positioning within that space: providing functional, comfortable footwear that aligns with a specific, sophisticated sensibility. The focus on walking, a ubiquitous activity in a city like New York, grounds the review in a tangible reality. It’s not about high fashion runway shows or red carpet moments; it’s about the everyday experiences of a woman navigating her life, and finding footwear that supports that journey without compromising on style. The detail of the step count is particularly compelling – a concrete measure of real-world wear and tear, lending credibility to the assessment. This resonates with a consumer base increasingly discerning about the performance and durability of their purchases.
Beyond the immediate product review, this piece taps into a larger conversation about the blurring lines between fashion, function, and well-being. The emphasis on comfort is no longer a secondary consideration; it’s a primary driver of purchasing decisions, particularly for women who are balancing demanding careers, social lives, and personal commitments. The desire for footwear that can effortlessly transition from a morning commute to an afternoon meeting to an evening out speaks to a need for versatility and efficiency in a world that demands constant adaptability. This reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing experiences and practicality over ostentatious displays of wealth. The choice of ballet flats, as noted in the related article, further exemplifies this trend – a timeless and elegant option that prioritizes comfort and ease of movement. August's fashion news August’s Fashion News Is Coming In Hot continues to highlight the evolving landscape, emphasizing the need for brands to stay attuned to these shifting consumer priorities.
Ultimately, the NikeSkims review serves as a microcosm of a larger trend: the rise of the "calm luxury" aesthetic, where understated elegance and effortless functionality reign supreme. It's a space where quality and craftsmanship are valued over fleeting trends, and where personal style is expressed through considered choices rather than conspicuous consumption. As urban lifestyles continue to evolve, and as consumers prioritize well-being and practicality, we can expect to see even greater demand for footwear that seamlessly blends style and comfort. The question remains: will this shift towards functional elegance reshape the entire footwear industry, or will it remain a niche trend catering to a specific segment of the market?
When you live in New York City, walking shoes are a must-have, and since I don't wear sneakers outside the gym, I'm always looking for substitutes that feel cute and true to my personal style while still being comfortable. Most of the time, I'm in ballet flats, kitten-heel sandals, low-heel pumps, loafers, or knee-high boots, but these usually don't cut it when I'm walking miles at a time. For those days, my go-to choices have been Mary Janes from Camper, Naturalizer, and vintage brands from eBay—all reliable options for when I'm on my feet for longer stretches.
For years, I'd been curious to try a pair of iconic '90s Nike Air Rifts despite the split-toe design being compared to horse hooves or rabbit feet. Then NikeSkims, the stand-alone brand cofounded by Nike and Kim Kardashian's Skims, launched its fashion-forward reimagining of the original silhouette: the Mesh Rift. More recently, it released the Rift Satin, swapping out the breathable mesh for sleek satin.
Since one of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday is going on a long walk, I decided to try them out over the weekend. I have narrow feet and ordered my true size, which was the right fit. On my very first wear, it happened to be an 86-degree day, and even in the heat, I did 19,552 steps without getting a single blister.

One detail I appreciated was the Velcro straps, which made them easy to slide on and off, which is ideal for situations like running errands, trying on clothes while shopping, and going to a Pilates class. Given that I didn't pack sneakers for hikes on a recent trip to L.A., I'd even use them in that scenario. After wearing them out and about in Manhattan, I can say they're a perfect alternative to traditional sneakers and passed my test for comfortable walking shoes.
Below, shop NikeSkims' first-ever shoes, available through both Nike and Skims.
Shop NikeSkims Rift Satin
Shop NikeSkims Mesh Rift
Shop More Comfortable Walking Shoes
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