I first learned about United Nude when I was on the first semester of Architecture – a good friend that I’ve met during those classes, an absolute fashionista that had a budget that was well over our typical broke-student-spare-money, introduced me to the brand as something that combined architecture with our mutual love of shoes.
And she was right, the ethos of the brand revolves around architectural shapes, structures and designs – all applied to shoe making.
Even though I could not afford them at the time, I never forgot the brand and its unique concept. Fast forward a few years, and it is currently the brand that I officially own more shoes from. And I think they are a bit underrated in the designer shoe sphere, because not only are the designs quite unique but they are incredibly comfortable as well.
Eamz Tech II in Black
This was the first pair I bought. The Eamz line has this type of suspended heel on all its shoes and in case anyone’s wondering, it is a very stable heel, very easy to walk in. These sandals are made with multiple materials: leather, suede and that type of canvas stripe that you find in backpack straps – also a very resistant and long lasting type of fabric. I’ve had them for 3 years and they are good as new.
The only adjustable part in this shoe is the strap over the bridge of the feet, so choosing the right size is essential. I have number 35 and this pair runs true to size.
Rockit Run in Bohemian
My most recent purchase. I needed something that would allow me to mix metals and this pair was perfect. Funny thing this colour option is called “Bohemian” since it’s all white and golds.
This pair is completely adjustable: as you can see from the first picture, there are three different velcro straps. The side panels are patent white leather. I have size 36 and I would say it runs slightly big, but maybe that’s intentional because the straps are adjustable and you can make it quite snug on the feet. It’s safest to just get your regular size.
Even though this is my most recent pair, it’s the one that looks the most beaten up. The square toe, with those acute angles, does not agree that well with the sharp edges of portuguese cobblestone, so the leather on the tip is a bit worn off. But I don’t think you’ll have a problem on normal pavement. These are, again, incredibly comfortable. There is no need to break them in.
Jacky K Booties in Berlin
This is as close to a sporty shoe as I’ll get. I love the Jacky heel (United Nude lines refer to the shape of the heel). These are slip ons, they have elastics on the sides (the black part), and the rest is all made of leather. They are, as expected, comfortable and easy to walk in. The white tips are a bit battered because, again, portuguese cobblestone, but for a pair that I’ve walked a lot in, they hold their colour and look pretty unscathed.
I have size 36 and this pair runs true to size.
Final Thoughts
All United Nude pairs come with an extra set of heel caps and even though I haven’t had the need to replace any yet, it’s a good thing they do, because you won’t be able to find these shapes anywhere.
United Nude is not only innovative, it’s reliable. I’m never disappointed. It shows that you don’t have to sacrifice durability or comfort for design. It’ll never be a brand that I’ll buy exclusively from because the style of shoe is always very futuristic, with modern lines and clean shapes, and I have other needs as well (dainty, classic, sparkly – oh my god, could you imagine living without the sparkle?), but there’s a reason why this is the brand I have bought more often from, and I will be buying from them again. 10/10, they’re totally worth it.
