Nisolo

Dari Boot

Women's

I recently ordered Nisolo's Dari Boot (size 6.5, Black) and Nisolo's Heeled Chelsea Boot (size 6.5, Black). I am in search of professional black booties that are both comfortable and can withstand regular wear in the precipitation-heavy Northeastern US. In evaluating these two Nisolo boots, I was also comparing them with Blondo's Heeled Chelsea Boot (size 6.5, Black). To compare them, I walked in them in a carpeted building and also wore them while sitting at a desk. Here are my thoughts: Nisolo Dari vs Nisolo Chelsea: Both are comfortable (as far as high-heeled boots go...of course they pinch your toes and tax your arches more than any flat boot!). The N. Chelsea may be slightly more comfortable right away, but my dominant impression is that the N. Chelseas seem more flimsy in comparison with the N. Daris; I think that the Dari might last longer and hold its shape better over time. In the tagged Instagram photos of customers wearing each of the boots, there does appear to be more wrinkling in the N. Chelseas than in the N. Daris. However, the boot shaft of both would inevitably wrinkle with time. The N. Dari does have a slightly higher boot shaft, which could explain why some of the reviewers remark about experiencing some discomfort, though I did not find the ankle opening to be uncomfortable when walking. If you find yourself squatting frequently throughout the day, the slightly higher boot shaft of the N. Dari might be more of an annoyance for you; note also that the N. Chelsea has elastic panels, which would make it easier for a person to bend their ankle when wearing them. When sitting at my desk for extended periods of time, I found that I really liked how I could undo the zipper on the N. Dari, allowing my foot to have a little more room to wiggle around (but then when you get up and walk around, zipping up the zipper allows for a secure fit that seems like it would protect your ankle more than the Chelseas would). The zipper is also convenient when you're trying on different outfits, as you can just leave the zipper unzipped and slip your feet in/out of the boot. In sum, for me, N. Dari > N. Chelsea. Nisolo Chelsea vs. Blondo Chelsea: Visually, these two boots appear almost identical! The major aesthetic difference appears to be that the elastic side panels on the N. Chelseas are slightly wider than on the B. Chelsea (which may be one reason why the N. Chelseas are a bit more comfortable). However, to echo my finding in the comparison above, the N. Chelsea seems "flimsier" than the Blondo Chelsea. Note that in order to make the B. Chelseas more comfortable, I am using Dr. Scholl's inserts. In sum, for me, N. Chelsea < B. Chelsea. Nisolo Dari vs. Blondo Chelsea Appearance: Blondos appear a bit "shinier," likely b/c the leather is treated differently. The cut/style of the Dari style appears a bit more professional than the Chelsea, in my opinion, though I'm sure others might find the opposite. Quality/Longevity: The leather of the Blondo Chelsea is treated in a way that makes it waterproof while the Nisolo Chelsea is just water-resistant. This being said, Nisolo leather can (and should!) be cared for with leather conditioners, etc., whereas Blondo leather can't really be cared for in the same way. I like that with Nisolo leather, I can play a role in extending the longevity of my shoes by caring for them. As a consumer, I try to be cognizant of how my purchases affect the world; by buying products that I can ensure last a long time, I can help alleviate the strain that rampant consumerism wreaks on the environment. Of course I can't really know whether the N. Dari or B. Chelsea will last longer, but it seems I have more agency with the N. Dari. Additionally, Nisolo's commitment to sustainability, quality, and fair labor practices mean a lot to me, and I want my purchase to support these types of business practices. Ultimately, I've decided to return the N. Chelsea, keep the N. Dari, and possibly to keep the B. Chelsea. My reasoning is that I hope these two boots will last for years to come, and that by making quality purchases now, I won't need to buy more boots for a long time. Additionally, by keeping the N. Dari and the B. Chelsea, I'll be able to wear the B. Chelsea when I know the weather would put a strain on the N. Dari, thereby helping me to preserve the N. Dari longer and keep them looking as professional as possible. I hope this comparison helps other shoppers!

These are so beautiful, but the brand seems to have gone down in quality since last time I ordered a pair. The leather has blemishes, cuts, and marks in it, as well as glue from the glueing the sole on, on the leather. I ordered a second pair thinking the first pair I received had been an anomaly, but not so. Each of the 4 shoes have obvious issues. Also for the price, they are a cheaply constructed. Super bummed, because they are the most beautiful boots I have ever seen.

This is the boot Ive been looking for! The heel height is just right; toe is softly pointed; shaft is not too high on the ankle. I think the back zipper makes for a cleaner look overall. They go with everything and the quality is obvious. They are worth it. They felt just a little small at first but the leather has relaxed and they feel comfortable after the break-in period. I wear them with thin socks and am glad I stuck with my regular size. Speaking of break-in periods, some shoes are comfy right out of the box, but I think these require a little time for the leather to give. I needed to walk 3 miles unexpectedly on the first wear and the stiffness of the new leather was really hard on my feet. (Thats on me, not on the boots) Im glad I trusted the quality and didnt give up on them as theyre now my go to shoe.

These are my 6th pair of Nisolos- you can't beat the quality of their shoes. I'm a true 7.5 in flats, sometimes a 7 in heels, but ordered the 8 as the size chart suggested and what do ya know, they were correct! Love the waterproof nature of the black leather + rubber heel.

Excited about this beautiful pair of boots! I know some folks have said to go up a half size, but for me it fit best TTS. I've only been wearing them/breaking them in around the house for now due to Covid, but looking forward to the day I can wear them out and about :)