As a fitness video producer, I thought I had every pair of sneakers I needed: from running to cross training, from hiking to heels, I have more shoes in my closet than a person should ever have. But then I tried Snibbs Orbit ($139) — sneakers that look like running shoes but are designed for people who are on their feet all day. After a long day of wearing and walking my feet feel ready for more.
Snibbs was co-founded by a board certified orthopedist Jason Snibbe, MDand cook Daniel Shemtob, who set out to create a durable work shoe that allows people to be comfortable on their feet for long periods of time and withstand the elements (like those found in a professional kitchen). Snibbs’ first shoe, the Spacecloud ($149), is water-resistant and designed for the chef. Their second, the Orbit, differs with its more breathable knit upper (which isn’t water-repellent). Both are unisex, certified to be non-slip even on floors coated in water, oil, grease and more, and promise to help with fatigue and discomfort associated with standing or walking all day.
As a video producer and new mom who gets buried daily, walks around constantly, and can spend entire workdays on my feet, Snibbs Orbit has proven to be a new shoe worth adding to my collection. Here are the details.
What I like about Snibbs Orbit Sneakers
Snibbs Orbit are unlike any of my other shoes because of their unparalleled comfort – even when I’m standing or walking around for 10-12 hours at a time on shoot days. They’re tough and supportive, yet lightweight, thanks to what’s called a Stratus EVA midsole (the material between your foot and the ground) that’s engineered to unburden and relieve your feet. The toe box (the front part of the shoe) is also designed to allow your toes to splay as your feet swell if you stand for a while.
One of the main differences I noticed with Snibbs compared to other shoes is the ultra-stable heel, which is designed to wrap your foot. Here’s how they really feel: like your foot is being cushioned from every angle, and almost like they’re custom-made for my feet. Sometimes my heel moves up and around my sneakers as I walk, but that doesn’t happen with these shoes. I also tend to get blisters when trying on new shoes, but I didn’t have that problem with these. Really, at the end of a long day, my feet feel nourished while in other shoes they sometimes feel ruined.
I also love that Snibbs Orbit are slip on – so I can get them on and off in a snap – but have adjustable laces so I can tighten them as needed. Bonus: They’re machine washable and air-dry quickly, and the brand says they’re made from nearly 100 percent recycled materials, which biodegrade much faster than typical shoes (think: years, not centuries).
What’s worth noting about Snibb’s Orbit?
Snibbs Orbit are designed for standing and walking. While not designed for working out, I’ve used them on a few cardio and dance workouts and they still felt comfortable to me during those sessions. At the moment they are available in a limited number of colors: black, blue and green. So if you’re looking for a basic white sneaker, this isn’t it—or at least, it’s not yet. The brand says more colorways are on the way in early 2023.
Who are Snibbs shoes best for?
Snibbs Orbit and Spacecloud are primarily work sneakers. They’re a great choice for anyone who has a job on their feet all day – whether it’s in a restaurant, healthcare, in a store, on a video set, in a factory, or as a mom. Being non-slip makes them particularly good work sneakers for waiters, nurses, cleaners or anyone who might find themselves in a potentially wet or slippery environment. However, if you’re particularly concerned about getting your feet wet, the Orbit Spacecloud might be a better choice than the Orbit thanks to its water-resistant upper.
If you’ve had a history of foot, back, hip, or leg pain from long periods of walking or standing, these might be a better option than your average sneakers because they’re designed with foot health in mind. (However, if you’re having problems or pain, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor. They can also tell you if Snibbs shoes might be a good choice for you.)
Are Snibbs shoes worth it?
As someone who has too many pairs of shoes, I didn’t want to like Snibbs, but I love them. You’ve become my go-to when I know I’ll be on my feet walking and standing. I’ve also started using my standing desk at home more often since I can wear Snibbs all day without hurting my feet.
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Where can you buy Snibbs shoes?
Snibbs Orbit ($139) are only available on the brand’s website.
Valuation: 5
Product credit: Snibbs Orbit Sneaker