On July 11, Jennie was spotted at Los Angeles Airport in a pair of toe shoes that boldly expose all five toes — a fashion statement as much as a comfort choice. The pair comes from a renowned Italian brand, originally designed for barefoot-like performance in athletic settings.
This isn’t the first time these unconventional shoes have appeared in the spotlight. Lee Hyori, known for her down-to-earth lifestyle, posted a playful snapshot of her toe shoes while hiking, captioned with a simple “ㅋㅋㅋ.” Shin Min-a, meanwhile, shared a glimpse of her pair during a trip to Prague, sparking conversations among fashion-forward fans.
Originally engineered for activities like running, water sports, and fitness training, toe shoes feature separated compartments for each toe, promoting better muscle activation, balance, and hygiene by reducing sweat buildup. They’re praised for their minimal restriction and natural foot movement — but they’re not for everyone.
Medical experts caution that the thin soles of toe shoes offer little shock absorption, potentially straining feet when worn long-term. Individuals with bunions, flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or sensitive skin should think twice before jumping on the trend.
Instead, professionals recommend introducing toe shoes gradually into your routine — perhaps during short walks or light workouts — to let your feet adjust naturally.
So, are toe shoes the next must-have in K-fashion? With trendsetters like Jennie and Hyori leading the way, the answer might just be yes — but perhaps with a touch of caution and a good dose of personal comfort.