TOMS shoes operates with a unique business focus. While TOMS is known for its shoes, it is not because of their complex designs or high-end style. In fact, TOMS is known less for the shoes that you can buy than the shoes that the company gives away. For every pair of shoes you purchase, TOMS donates another pair of shoes to a child in need.
Founder Blake Mycoskie started the company in 2006 with the goal of giving 10,000 pairs of shoes to Argentinean children. Since then, the One for One movement has grown to give significantly more than those initial 10,000 pairs of shoes. When you buy a pair of shoes, you are providing a child with the opportunity to get a new pair of shoes designed and access to health care and education through TOMS' giving partners.
TOMS offers multiple styles of shoes for you to choose from. The most well-known option are the classics, simple canvas shoes inspired by Alpargatas, a type of Argentinean shoe that is similar to espadrilles from Spain. Shoes in the classic style contain an elastic to make them easy to put on and take off and feature suede insoles, cushions and latex arches for comfort and support. The classic style comes in multiple different colors.
Many of TOMS other shoe styles play on the classic style. Crochet Classics feature the classic shape with an airy crocheted body which is ideal for warmer months. The Artist and Glitter styles offer the classic design with sparkly or hand-painted designs to add visual appeal. Stitchouts add lacing to the back of the shoe.
If TOMS classic design does not appeal to you, there are other ways to purchase from TOMS and still make a difference. Cordones are a classic canvas laced shoe with a rope sole. Botas are short suede boots. Ballet flats, wedges and wrap boots offer shoes that work to accompany dressier or professional outfits. Even vegans can shop comfortably with TOMS by choosing from a selection of shoes that contain no animal by-products.
Women's shoes come in sizes 5 through 12. Men's shoes are available in sizes 7 through 14. Some styles are also available in youth sizes, including Tiny TOMS for the smallest TOMS fans.
In addition to shoes, TOMS has expanded to selling eyewear. For every pair of sunglasses you purchase, TOMS will work with the Seva Foundation to provide medical treatment, prescription glasses or surgery to individuals facing blindness or those who do not have access to quality eyecare.
The focus of TOMS Shoes is not to sell its products. Its focus is to save the world, one need at a time. When you purchase a pair of TOMS shoes, a pair of sunglasses or a TOMS T-shirt to help spread the word, you become a part of that mission and help make a difference in someone's life.
