Few footwear brands balance commercial success with a genuine commitment to giving back. TOMS stands out as a company that prioritizes social responsibility alongside style and sustainability.
TOMS popularized its “One for One” model by donating a pair of shoes for every one sold — a program it has since evolved into a broader mission of giving one-third of profits to social impact initiatives
The for-profit company based in Playa Del Rey is known not just for its comfortable alpargata-style shoes (alpargata is the Spanish word for “espadrille”), but also for its inspiring mission and charitable outreach.
Did you know you can also donate your shoes directly to charitable organizations?
Emma Stone keeps it casual in olive green TOMS slip-ons, skinny jeans, and a plaid shirt while filming ‘La La Land’ in Pasadena on August 18, 2015 (Credit: WENN / TOMS / Adriana M. Barraza / Cousart / JFXimages)
Once known for its “One for One” shoe donations, TOMS has evolved its giving model. Today, the brand commits one-third of its profits to support grassroots organizations that drive change in mental health, equity, and opportunity.
This shift allows TOMS to make a broader and more sustainable impact beyond footwear.
Sarah Hyland pairs classic black TOMS slip-ons with a preppy gray sweater and flared skirt at the TOMS for Target launch event in Culver City, Los Angeles, on November 13, 2014
Celebrities like Jessica Alba, Sarah Hyland, and Emma Stone are brand fans.
Jessica Alba adds a playful pop of color to her look with glittery silver TOMS, peach jeans, and a denim vest while heading to lunch at Le Pain Quotidien in Beverly Hills on May 22, 2012
To support this cause, it is essential to purchase authentic TOMS shoes. When buying online, always look for scammers offering “discounted TOMS” on unauthorized websites.
Shopping sites like eBay may display low prices for these items, but that’s because many sellers are selling counterfeit TOMS.
Where to Buy Authentic TOMS Shoes Online
Always buy TOMS from authorized retailers or the official website to avoid the hassle and ensure you’re truly supporting the company’s charitable mission. Here are the top five trusted sites for purchasing authentic TOMS shoes:
- 1. TOMS (Official Site) – Full collection with the latest drops and support for their charitable initiatives.
- 2. Amazon – Quick delivery and wide size availability, but watch out for third-party sellers.
- 3. Nordstrom – Known for excellent customer service and a curated selection of TOMS.
- 4. Zappos – Great return policy and detailed reviews for a stress-free shopping experience.
- 5. DSW – Frequent sales and loyalty perks, especially on seasonal TOMS styles.
Here are 10 things to check when buying TOMS Shoes online, to protect yourself from counterfeiters:
1. Research the Seller Carefully
If you buy TOMS from an unauthorized retailer or settle for second-hand items, it is important to do some digging first. Several sellers claim to stock authentic goods, but only have fake items.
Check reviews and inspect the website first. If you encounter negative reviews or dubious claims, find another store with a better reputation.
Watch the video below of Katie Patton, who had the unfortunate experience of purchasing a pair of fake TOMS on eBay.
2. Inspect the Packaging for Eco-Friendly Details
Because of the brand’s environmental commitment, all TOMS shoes are packaged in eco-friendly and recycled materials. An authentic TOMS shoe box should include a canvas bag designed with the TOMS logo and a TOMS sticker.
The design or print of the shoe box may change periodically, depending on the season or style of the shoe that you purchase.
3. Examine the Tags for Accuracy and Quality
Many counterfeit TOMS shoes have misleading “Made in China” tags printed on the outer right side, which is a common red flag. While authentic TOMS products are manufactured globally through trusted third-party contractors, the brand does not print the country of origin on the exterior tags of its shoes.
TOMS is a global footwear and lifestyle brand with a commercial manufacturing base primarily in China and Vietnam. Most of its corporate employees are located in the United States. If you’re unsure about authenticity, always compare details with listings on the official TOMS website.
Fake TOMS often have “Made in China” printed on their tags
The small fabric tag on authentic TOMS shoes should feature only the brand name — “TOMS” — with no additional text or country of origin. It should also lie flat against the shoe, not stick out awkwardly or appear misaligned.
4. Compare Sizing and Fit to Known Standards
Authentic TOMS shoes typically run true to size and stretch slightly after a few wears, conforming comfortably to your feet. In contrast, counterfeit pairs are often sized incorrectly, usually running short, due to the use of low-quality, rigid materials.
To check for accuracy, compare the fit of your new TOMS with other similarly styled shoes you already own. They may not be the real deal if they feel unusually tight or stiff right out of the box.
5. Look Closely at the Logo Placement and Stitching
The logo of a genuine TOMS pair should be placed halfway on the back heel part, with even stitches around the flag.
The logo of a genuine TOMS pair should be placed halfway on the back heel part
Fake TOMS typically have too low or too high logos, with very uneven stitching.
6. Inspect Insoles and Outsoles for Authenticity Markers
One of the surest ways to check for fake TOMS is through its insoles. If the inside soles can be removed, they are most likely imitations. The insoles of genuine TOMS shoes, regardless of the style, are sewn into the soles and not glued!
Genuine TOMS shoes feature flexible outsoles with a light, textured pattern—authentic pairs bend easily and provide grip, unlike the stiff, flat soles often found on counterfeits
They do not slide off and definitely can’t be removed. The soles should also have arch support and cushioning. Fake ones will have flat insoles that do not support or cushion your feet, making them uncomfortable when worn.
The outsoles of original TOMS have a light, textured pattern and are easily bendable even when new. Fakes will feel thick and stiff and cannot be flexed.
7. Review Interior Linings for Print Quality
Authentic TOMS typically use printed linings on their shoes. The graphic prints of the lining differ depending on the shoe’s color and style. Many fakes have very poor quality inside linings with the same prints on different styles of TOMS.
Authentic TOMS shoes often feature unique printed linings that vary by style and season—a detail frequently overlooked or poorly replicated in counterfeit versions
Some do not have graphic patterns, which is uncommon for real TOMS. To be sure, compare them with the styles posted on the TOMS website. The women’s collections have more lining designs.
Most men’s styles have simple inside prints, while some men’s TOMS shoes do not have any inside prints.
8. Examine Insole Text for Errors or Blurring
The insoles display the TOMS mission statement – “With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for One.” One of the telltale signs of fake shoes is poorly printed text, uneven lines, and misspellings.
The insoles of authentic TOMS shoes feature the brand’s mission statement printed clearly and evenly — a key detail often missing or poorly replicated in counterfeit pairs
Be on the lookout for these little signs and the spacing on the text print. The font used throughout the text should match the font of the TOMS brand.
9. Compare Styles to Official TOMS Offerings
Fake shoes come in all styles, some with strange and tacky designs. Sellers can even tag these shoes as “limited editions” or “rare finds” to fool you. It is always better to verify the style on the TOMS website first.
Typically, the most imitated styles are the classic canvas TOMS because they are the easiest to manufacture and also because they are the most popular styles.
Always double-check and compare the style with product photos from the TOMS website or other authorized retail stores online.
10. Feel the Fit: Real TOMS Should Be Flexible and Comfortable
Aside from the worthy advocacy, TOMS shoes are known for being super comfortable on the feet. Real TOMS should feel comfortable when worn. They boast soft canvas uppers, arch support, and bendy soles.
Fake TOMS often look stiff because they are manufactured with cheaper materials. If they feel weird and too rigid on your feet, then they are probably counterfeit.
Frequently Asked Questions About TOMS Shoes
Do you wear socks with Toms?
Yes, your closed-toe shoes will stain quickly if you wear them with sweaty feet without socks. Wearing socks with sandals is controversial, but wearing TOMS with stinky feet is bad.
If you insist on wearing your shoes without socks (it can be pretty comfortable), at least make sure you know how to prevent foot sweat.
How much do Toms cost?
Shoes for kids usually cost around $30, while adult styles sell for $50 and up. Boots, which can retail for $150, are the most expensive.
What does Toms stand for?
According to Blake Mycoskie, the company name is derived from the word “tomorrow,” and evolved from the original concept, “Shoes for Tomorrow Project.” Since it was too long to fit on the label, he shortened the company name to TOMS.
Spotting the Fakes: Your Guide to Authentic Footwear and Accessories
Counterfeit fashion items are increasingly sophisticated, making it essential to know how to identify genuine products. Here are some expert guides to help you distinguish real from fake:
Christian Louboutin: Identifying Authentic Red Soles
- Key Features: Genuine Louboutins have smooth red leather soles, evenly crafted insoles, and precise logo placement.
- Common Fakes: Look out for plastic soles, uneven stitching, and misaligned logos.
- Read more: How to Tell if Your Christian Louboutins Are Authentic
Barbour Jackets: Ensuring Genuine British Craftsmanship
- Authenticity Tips: Check for branded buttons, the Royal Warrant label, and high-quality stitching.
- Common Fakes: Missing labels, poor-quality materials, and incorrect logo placement.
- Read more: How to Spot a Real Barbour Jacket: 7 Expert Tips to Avoid Fakes
Columbia Sportswear: Verifying Outdoor Apparel and Footwear
- Key Features: Authentic Columbia items have a 7-digit style number, consistent stitching, and official logos.
- Common Fakes: Inconsistent tags, poor material quality, and incorrect logo fonts.
- Read more: How to Tell If Your Columbia Jacket or Shoes Are Fake
Mulberry Bags: Authenticating Luxury Leather Goods
- Authenticity Tips: Examine the leather quality, stitching precision, and hardware engravings.
- Common Fakes: Flimsy materials, uneven stitching, and missing or incorrect logos.
- Read more: Mulberry Bag Authentication: A Step-by-Step Guide to Spotting Fakes
Tory Burch Shoes: Spotting Genuine Designer Footwear
- Key Features: Authentic Tory Burch shoes feature tight V-shaped stitching, quality materials, and proper packaging.
- Common Fakes: Loose stitches, visible glue, and low-quality packaging.
- Read more: How to Spot Fake vs. Real Tory Burch Shoes: 5 Ways to Check
Explore our Your Next Shoes homepage for more tips and guides on authenticating your favorite fashion items.