Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop review

Who should buy the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop

The Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop is for people looking for stylish, sporty sneakers that:

• allow them to comfortably stay on their feet for long hours
• y bought a backup pair
• can serve as the “all-rounder” that they can partner with various outfits.

Who should not buy it

Accounts of its durability not being up to the task, as well as the ankle blistering issues several reviewers faced (especially if you’re the type to wear no-show socks 90% of the time) may make you want to pass up on the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop.

But if you’re entranced with these sneakers’ style and versatility, a couple of alternatives could be the Sorel Kinetic Breakthru Tech Lace, which boasts a super quick break-in — sans the blisters, or the Nike React Vision with its similarly eye-catching athleisure look and more reliable build quality.

Cloud-like comfort

A majority of those who’ve purchased the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop agree that, comfort-wise, it is a solid pair of sneakers. Owners who have been using theirs for a while found it to be light, well-cushioned, and supportive, on par with the reputation Sorel has earned for its footwear.

Due to its leather-and-nylon upper, reviewers report initially finding the shoe stiff, but immensely improved after some breaking in. After using it for long outings, many have been very pleased with their experience:

• “The cushioning … will make you feel like any activity is doable!”
• “Wore all day for 4 days at Disney, not once did my feet hurt!!”
• “Did 13.5 hours today walking all day at work with no foot or back pain.”

Problematic collar

However, some owners have a gripe with the way the back of the Rush Ripstop is designed. It appears that with the ankle collar sitting a bit high up at the back, wearing them with thin or low-cut socks can cause discomfort or even blistering.

You’re in for a tight squeeze

No matter how comfortable the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop is, you’re not likely to get that “walking on clouds” feeling if you’re not wearing the right size. And with this pair of sneakers, that can be an issue. Several reviewers note that the Rush Ripstop runs small and narrow, and caution that the sneakers fit much tighter than other Sorel boots in the same size.

For people with feet on the wider side, users recommend moving a half-size to a full-size up “unless you like your toes in a vice,” as one review reads.

The Kinetic Rush Ripstop offers good traction and boost

Several testers have recommended the sneakers for their responsive midsole and rubber outsole. One commenter said the midsole “makes quick strides happen with ease, almost like propelling you,” while others also praised its high-traction outsole.

These are amazing for movement

While the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop is an ultimate city sneaker, several owners didn’t hesitate to take theirs off-pavement. Reviewers commented that the Rush Ripstop holds up well to more intense activities.

• “Got these for a hike and was pleasantly surprised how great they were”
• “Track and field”
• “I wear mine for lifting workouts and for daily wear and they're fantastic.”

Debatable durability

Testers have had mixed experiences with regard to the Kinetic Rush Ripstop’s durability. While some were impressed with the material, stating it has been capable of “standing up to hiking and treadmill workouts,” a number have expressed disappointment about the build quality. Most complaints said that despite light to normal use, parts of the shoe have already been damaged.

Some reports, mostly from owners who have only had their shoes for a few months, said that the “rubber bottoms have already started falling off and the top area coming apart” and that the “soles both began delaminating.” Another sneakerhead mentioned that his “are definitely falling apart” after only a few outings.

Ready for (almost) any weather

The Kinetic Rush Ripstop also features some sort of water resistance. One user recommends it to people in need of a shoe “that can stand unpredictable weather.” A couple of others, though, clarified that the breathable ripstop upper “provides no resistance to water. Only side panels are water resistant.”

A real compliment magnet

Aside from comfort, another thing a bulk of reviewers agree on is how stylish and versatile the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop is. Most lauded how it can pair well with a variety of outfits and looks, calling it “dress tennis shoes” and “going out and stay nice-looking shoes,” while also giving off performance and rugged vibes.

Wearers also commended the Rush Ripstop’s clean design and colorways, stating that it “never fails to turn heads and get compliments,” and that they’ve had a few sneakerheads do a double take at their shoes.

Fans of the Kinetic Rush Ripstop just can’t get enough

Moreover, because of its mix of style and comfort, the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop has had owners coming back for more, with several saying that they bought a backup pair while others “wish they came in some more colors” so they can buy more.

Well worth the price

At $130, the Sorel Kinetic Rush Ripstop is significantly more expensive than the average price of low-top, casual sneakers, which is $105. Despite this, some owners believe that it’s “definitely worth every penny” and that “the price is fair, especially for the brand.”