If there’s one thing we think is always worth the investment, it’s comfy, supportive walking shoes. Just ask anyone who deals with foot pain—the right pair of sneakers can make all the difference.
The APL TechLoom Zipline is one of the most popular luxury walking shoes on the market—but at $350, it’s also one of the most expensive. Its premium price reflects the shoe’s innovative design, construction with the finest materials, and performance-driven features like luxe responsive cushioning (unsurprisingly, it’s made a fan of our favorite lifestyle mogul, Oprah Winfrey, who’s included APL sneakers in her Favorite Things list multiple times!). In theory, if you’re someone who regularly buys both athletic sneakers and fashion sneakers, the TechLoom Zipline should be able to replace both categories in a single shoe.
But does it? Here’s what three editors thought after evaluating the sneaker’s fit, cushion, and performance for a full month:
APL TechLoom Zipline: Specs
| Sizes | 5-11 |
| Colors | 29 options |
| Weight | 7.7 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8 mm |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Editor Reviews: Fit, Cushion, and Performance
Name: Hannah Jeon, associate commerce editor
Age: 29
Size: 7
I’m honestly not really one for luxury purchases, so I was initially uncertain whether the APL TechLoom Zipline sneakers would be for me—but it truly didn’t take long for them to become my new favorite walking shoes. Seriously, these sneakers might be the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever tried or owned! From the very first time I slipped them on, I immediately noticed and felt the supreme comfort. The ample cushioning is incredibly soft yet supportive, as well as responsive with great energy return—even after miles of walking in them through New York City streets and concrete, my feet never felt sore or fatigued.
My absolute favorite thing about these shoes, though, is the super lightweight and breathable fit and feel. They’re designed with a sleek, single layer knit upper with an ultra-soft sockliner—and I’m not exaggerating when I say these shoes actually fit and feel like a sock. The seamless, stretchy upper truly allows for a breathable, barely-there feel, which means my feet never feel too suffocated or sweaty—or experience any uncomfortable rubbing or blisters (which I honestly can’t say for other shoes I’ve tried with thick, heavy uppers!). Because of this snug, sock-like fit, though, I would say these shoes run a bit small—so I would recommend sizing up if you have wide feet or prefer a more roomy fit.
The lightweight upper material also comes with a super stretchy tongue and collar, which makes these sneakers super easy to slip on and off. I love a good slip-on shoe—it’s honestly such a game-changer to not have to bend over or deal with fussy shoelaces, especially when I’m trying to get out the door quickly—and these sneakers are no exception. I loved that I just had to set the laces once and then could just slip my feet in and go with them on.
All in all, I’d say these sneakers are truly as comfortable and lightweight as it gets. The one drawback, of course, is the steep price tag—but I’d say they’re worth the investment if you’re willing to splurge on a shoe that delivers on performance and comfort while remaining stylish and versatile enough for everyday wear. Personally, I’ll be slipping them on every chance I get this summer!
Name: Charlotte Finigan, senior commerce editor
Age: 38
Size: 9.5
I was initially skeptical of the APL TechLoom Zipline sneakers, but they have quickly become my new favorite pair of walking shoes. The brand has positioned itself as the only performance-based luxury sneaker that combines the best of athletic tech with fashion house style, and I think they have nailed both aspects. The majority of my athletic shoes look too casual to pair with a nice outfit, and the nicer designer sneakers are, well, not that comfortable. But the APL TechLooms ride that middle line to perfection.
First, they are so comfortable! The cushion feels like marshmallows on the soles of my feet, and they compress and release gently to propel each step forward without giving too much spring back. In addition to the ultra-comfy insole, though, the upper is a sock-like single layer knit material that moves with you, so it never chafes or blisters. It also makes slipping the shoes on and off a breeze, which made them so perfect for commutes on days when I was not fully awake yet or moments when I needed to dash out the door. I also appreciate that though they have a chunky sole, the sneakers never felt anything other than lightweight and breathable, so my feet never feel cramped or sweaty.
The look is just as good as the feel, but they might not be for everyone. This luxury shoe is made to look unique, which is why you’re as likely to see them on the feet of shoppers at Erewhon and in the first class section of flights as you are to see them at the gym or on joggers passing by. Their sock-like fit is sleek and foot-hugging, and the monochromatic colors look elegant. My wife said that their webbed appearance made them look like they were made for Spiderman, but I loved the cool vibe they added to all my outfits, and they looked just as good running errands and on long-distance walks with athleisure as they did with my business casual workwear. According to the brand, those webbed ridges are what add stability to the shoe, so they remain secure despite the stretch, so they are functional in their aesthetic, too. I did not try them out for runs, so I can’t comment on whether they are stable enough for that, but for walking they are a true superstar in terms of cushion and fit. My only other caveat is the price. They are expensive. But considering their versatility, they can take the place of a Hoka walking shoe and a fancy designer sneaker (whose combined price would likely be upwards of $400!).
My verdict: If you are someone who regularly buys fashion sneakers and athletic sneakers, this one sneaker can replace both. It’s not just multi-use, it’s a dependable, comfortable, and stylish walking shoe that is easy to wear. 10/10.
Name: Alyssa Jung, deputy health editor, fitness + nutrition
Age: 38
Size: 6.5
I have no idea how I ever lived without these sneakers. They were insanely comfy, no matter how many miles I clocked in them, plus they have a sleek, streamlined, athleisure aesthetic. The upper is breathable and stretchy-flexible, making them easy to pull on and a great option for feet of all shapes and sizes.
I wore these sneakers a few times a week for a month, on casual office days and for long walks through the streets of New York City. That means they were on my feet for up to eight hours at a time, and they traveled over everything from concrete to carpet.
They are incredibly light and my feet never felt heavy, even after taking them on an 8-mile errands excursion. I think they may run a tad small, as I’m usually only a size 6.5 in running sneakers, but these fit my feet like a glove. The neutral support and middle-of-the-road heel height were ideal for me, and the heel cup had cushioning in the perfect spots that kept my foot secure for more efficient striding.
They’re certainly worth the higher price point, but because of that, I won’t be wearing them as often as I would like to because I don’t want to wear them ragged too soon!
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