What inspired the creation of Aion Shoes?

Honestly? We were tired of the "crisis of choice." You either had your toes squeezed into narrow "style" shoes, or you were forced to wear soles so thick you couldn't feel the ground. We wanted a streetwear barefoot option that was built for performance, that would also look good in casual clothes.

Aion was brought into existence to solve this. People deserve shoes that treat their feet with respect while looking elite. We wanted a shoe that feels as good as it looks—comfortable, functional, and sexy.

Can I wear Aion Shoes if I have "flat feet"?

Yes, and many people with flat feet get the most out of barefoot shoes. A foot that looks flat often has weak intrinsic muscles, and building that strength is one of the best ways to support your arch. Research on minimal footwear backs this up: in a 2021 study published in Scientific Reports, adults who wore minimal shoes for their daily activities for six months increased their foot strength by an average of 57.4%. Aion gives your feet the room and flexibility to do that work. If you have pain or a diagnosed foot condition, check with your doctor or physical therapist before you switch.

Add the study link to "2021 study": https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-98070-0

Will Aion Shoes reverse my bunions?

Aion won't fix a bunion on its own, but it can stop your shoes from making it worse. Narrow, pointed shoes push your big toe inward. Aion's wide toe box lets your toes sit in their natural position, so the muscles that hold your big toe in line can start working again. Most people pair the switch with toe spacers and foot mobility work, and give it time. For a severe or painful bunion, talk to a podiatrist.

Note: We encourage using foot mobility protocols (like toe spacers or stretching) alongside the switch to Aion. While bunions are reversible, it takes time and consistency. Aion provides the environment for that healing to happen.

I’ve never worn barefoot shoes. How should I transition?

Think of this like starting a new workout routine. Your feet have been "in a cast" for years; they need time to wake up.

• The Schedule: Start with 1–2 hours a day. If your feet aren’t overly sore, you can gradually scale up.
• The 50% Rule: The first time you do a specific activity in Aions (like lifting or running), we recommend going at 50-60% intensity until you’ve built the necessary foundational strength.

What activities are these shoes good for?

Everything. We didn't just build a "walking shoe." The Aion Trainer is built for high-level intensity:

• Training: Weightlifting, Plyometrics (jumping), Calisthenics.
• Performance: Sprinting and Long-distance running (once transition is complete).
• Lifestyle: This is what sets us apart. They look incredible with jeans or pants. Minimal is the new sexy.
• Proven Durability: Every spec has been tested over 3 years of wear to ensure they hold up to the highest intensities.

Do I wear socks with these?

You can wear them either way! However, if you want the full "Aion Experience," we recommend thin, moisture-wicking socks or toe-socks to allow your toes to move independently.

How do I clean my Aion Trainers?

Since we used premium materials for a "less granola" look, you’ll want to keep them fresh. We recommend hand-washing with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid the dryer—let them air dry to preserve the integrity of the sole.

How thick is the sole on the Aion Trainer?

The Aion Trainer has a 4mm flexible sole with zero drop, so your heel and forefoot sit at the same height and you can feel the ground under you.

How is Aion different from other barefoot shoes?

Aion gives you everything that makes a barefoot shoe work (a wide toe box, zero drop and a thin flexible sole) in a sneaker silhouette that looks good with jeans. It was designed by a personal trainer and former pro athlete, with a reinforced upper built for real training.

Do Aion Shoes run true to size?

Yes, if you are on a half-size, size down.