Sabah Shoes Review: Are These Handmade Leather Slippers Worth Your Money?

These handmade leather slippers from Turkey have been popping up everywhere, and I couldn’t resist digging into what makes them so special. Are they just another trendy fad, or do they actually live up to the hype?

In this Sabah Shoes review, I’ll break it all down for you. I’ve scoured the web, read real user experiences, and even tried to imagine slipping my own feet into a pair. Spoiler alert: there’s a lot to love, but they’re not perfect for everyone.

Stick with me as I walk you through the details, from comfort to durability, in a friendly and simple way. You’ll want to keep reading to find out if these shoes deserve a spot in your closet!

Key Takeaways:

Here’s a quick rundown of what I found about Sabah Shoes. This section sums up the big points so you can decide if they’re your vibe.

• Handmade Quality: Sabah Shoes come from skilled artisans in Turkey and Texas. They use high quality leather that feels soft and molds to your feet over time.
• Unique Style: These slippers have a sleek, minimalist look. They mix old school Turkish design with a modern twist, making them stand out.
• Comfort Level: Users say they’re super comfy for short walks or casual days. But they lack arch support, so long distance trekkers might feel the pinch.
• Price Point: At around $210 a pair, they’re not cheap. The craftsmanship justifies the cost for some, but it’s a splurge for others.
• Durability: The leather lasts years if cared for, but the rubber soles wear out fast. You’ll need to resole them every 6 to 12 months with regular use.
• Versatility: They pair well with jeans, shorts, or even a suit. Perfect for travel or laid back vibes.
• Sizing Tips: They run snug at first but stretch. Stick to your usual size or check their sizing guide online.

This list gives you the gist. Now, let’s dive deeper into each part of the Sabah Shoes experience!

What Are Sabah Shoes?

Sabah Shoes started with a guy named Mickey Ashmore. He lived in Istanbul, fell in love with traditional Turkish slippers, and decided to bring them to the world with a fresh spin. Today, these shoes come handmade from workshops in Gaziantep, Turkey, and El Paso, Texas.

Artisans craft each pair using soft leather and a rubber outsole. The design keeps things simple: a slip on style with no laces or fuss.

People call them versatile. You can wear them at home, to the office, or on a weekend trip. The leather comes from Istanbul tanneries, and the shoes feature fun colors like leopard print or classic brown. I love how they blend old traditions with a cool, modern vibe.

Users say the shoes feel personal because each pair has the maker’s initials inside. That’s a nice touch, right? If you want something unique, Sabah Shoes might catch your eye.

How Do Sabah Shoes Feel?

Comfort matters a lot with shoes. Sabah Shoes get tons of praise for feeling soft and cozy. The leather molds to your feet after a few wears, which users love. One person said they’re “like slippers you can wear outside.” That sounds dreamy! They’re lightweight too, making them easy to pack for travel.

But here’s the catch. They have zero arch support. If you walk miles every day, your feet might ache. Some folks on Reddit mentioned blisters at first, especially without socks. The break in period takes about 3 to 5 wears, so patience helps.

For me, I’d probably wear them for casual errands, not a city marathon. If your feet need extra cushion, you might want to add inserts. Overall, they’re comfy for the right situations.

Are Sabah Shoes Durable?

You want shoes that last, especially at this price. Sabah Shoes use high quality cowhide leather, which holds up well over time. Users report pairs lasting years with proper care. The leather even gets prettier as it ages, picking up a cool patina. That’s a win for anyone who loves character in their stuff!

The rubber outsole, though, wears down faster. Some say it needs replacing after 6 months of daily use. Resoling costs $50 to $70, which isn’t bad, but it adds up. One user trashed theirs after a year because the stitching fell apart too.

It seems care matters a lot. If you’re gentle and resole them on time, they can stick around for ages. For rough walkers, they might not keep up as well.

How Much Do Sabah Shoes Cost?

Let’s talk money. Sabah Shoes retail for about $210 per pair. That’s a big jump from your average sneakers or flip flops. The handmade process and premium leather explain the price. I get it, quality costs more. They also offer free returns in the US within 30 days if they’re unworn, which softens the blow.

Compared to mass produced shoes, they’re pricier. But fans argue they’re worth it for the craftsmanship and style. One reviewer said they’d rather buy one pair of Sabahs than three cheap pairs that fall apart. If you’re on a budget, though, $210 might feel steep. It’s all about what you value in a shoe.

What Styles Do Sabah Shoes Offer?

Sabah Shoes come in two main types: Sabahs and Babas. Sabahs are the full slip on, while Babas are backless slides. Both use the same leather and handmade vibe. Colors range from basic black to wild leopard print. I’m obsessed with the funky options! They’ve got over 20 shades, so you can match your mood.

The design stays simple but sharp. They work with casual jeans or dressier outfits. Some folks even wear them to weddings! Users love how they dress up or down so easily. If you like variety, the color choices keep things fresh. But if you want heels or boots, Sabah sticks to its slipper lane.

How Do You Size Sabah Shoes?

Sizing can trip you up with handmade shoes. Sabah says their shoes run true to size, but they start snug. The leather stretches after a few wears, so your toes should touch the end at first. That makes sense for a custom fit feel. They offer a sizing chart online to match your usual US or EU size.

Some users suggest sizing down for Babas, especially the Turkish made ones. Others found size variations between Turkey and Texas pairs. One person swapped sizes twice to get it right! Free returns help here. Chat with their team if you’re unsure. Getting the fit right seems key to loving these shoes.

Are Sabah Shoes Good for Travel?

Travel shoes need to be comfy and packable. Sabah Shoes shine here. They’re light, flexible, and slip on fast for airport security. Users call them the “ultimate travel shoe.” I can see why—toss them in a bag and go! They handle short walks and look good with travel outfits.

But long days on your feet might hurt. One traveler said 5 miles in NYC left their feet screaming. The thin sole doesn’t cushion much. For quick trips or laid back vacations, they’re ace. If you’re pounding pavement all day, maybe pair them with something sturdier.

What Do People Say About Sabah Shoes?

Real reviews tell the story. On sites like Thingtesting, people rave about the comfort and style. One user said, “I get more compliments on my Sabahs than any other shoe.” That’s a flex! Others love wearing them daily, from home to work. Customer service gets props too—folks say the team is friendly and helpful.

Not everyone’s sold, though. Some complain the soles wear out too fast for $200. A few got blisters or found them too flat. It’s a mixed bag, but most lean positive if you treat them right. Reading these takes makes me think they’re a vibe for the right person.

How Do You Care for Sabah Shoes?

Care keeps shoes alive. Sabah Shoes need some TLC. The leather doesn’t smell, thanks to its natural processing, and it handles water okay. Wipe them with a damp cloth if they get dirty. For scuffs, a little leather conditioner works. Resoling is the big one—check the rubber heel often.

Users say they age like fine wine with care. I’d probably baby mine to keep them looking sharp. Avoid dragging your feet to save the sole. If you’re low maintenance, they might feel like work. A little effort goes a long way here.

Are Sabah Shoes Worth It?

Here’s the million dollar question. Sabah Shoes bring a lot: unique style, solid craftsmanship, and a comfy fit for casual days. They’re not cheap, but the quality hooks fans. I’d splurge if I wanted something special. They’re perfect for travel, errands, or standing out.

They’re not for everyone, though. If you need support or walk tons, they might disappoint. The upkeep and cost could turn some off too. It boils down to your style and needs. For me, they’re tempting for their charm and story.

Where Can You Buy Sabah Shoes?

Ready to grab a pair? Sabah sells mostly through their website, sabah.am. They’ve got a few “Sabah Houses” in places like New York and Dallas too. I’d love to pop into one for the vibe! Shipping takes 3 to 4 days in the US, with faster options available.

They ship worldwide, but customs fees might apply outside the US. Check their UK site if you’re across the pond. It’s straightforward online, and free returns ease the risk. Just pick your color and size, and you’re set.

FAQs

Are Sabah Shoes comfortable for all day wear?

They feel comfy for short stints. The leather molds to your feet, but no arch support means long days might hurt. Add inserts if you need more cushion.

How long do Sabah Shoes last?

With care, the leather lasts years. The rubber sole wears out in 6 to 12 months with daily use. Resole them to keep them going.

Can you wear Sabah Shoes in the rain?

Yes, they handle water fine. The leather won’t mold, but they’re not waterproof. Dry them out after to keep them fresh.

Do Sabah Shoes stretch a lot?

They stretch some after 3 to 5 wears. Start snug for the best fit. Your toes should touch the end without curling.

Are Sabah Shoes good for wide feet?

They might work if you size up. The leather stretches, but they’re narrow at first. Check reviews or ask their team.