Element Boy's Topaz C3 Sneaker Review
The Element Boy's Topaz C3 Sneaker in Canvas Turquoise is a perfect blend of style, comfort, and sustainability. This sneaker boasts a classic silhouette that fits seamlessly into your child's regular rotation, making it an essential addition to their footwear collection. With its strobel lasted construction, inspired by performance running shoes, you'll find this shoe offers remarkable flexibility compared to traditional board lasted designs.
Made with sustainable uppers and water-based cement, it reflects an eco-conscious approach suitable for environmentally aware families. The design not only focuses on aesthetics but also prioritizes durability, ensuring these sneakers can endure the rigors of active play.
Features
- Lace-up closure for a secure fit
- Strobel lasted construction for enhanced flexibility
- Textile and sustainable upper materials
- Outsole crafted from 20% recycled rubber and organic cotton canvas
- Lightweight EVA insock that cups the heel and enhances breathability with perforations at the ball of the foot
- Constructed using water-based cement
Pros
- Environmentally friendly materials
- Flexible design enhances comfort during movement
- Durable and made to withstand wear and tear
- Breathable materials reduce odors and keep feet cool
- Aesthetic appeal with vibrant color options
Cons
- Potentially limited outdoor traction due to a less aggressive tread pattern
- May require time to break in for optimal comfort
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Product | Upper Material | Outsole Material | Construction Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Element Boy's Topaz C3 Sneaker | Cotton & Sustainable Materials | 20% Recycled Rubber | Strobel Lasted |
| Adidas Kids' Gazelle | Suede | Rubber | Board Lasted |
| Nike Kids' Air Max | Synthetic | Rubber | Strobel Lasted |
Detailed Review
When evaluating the Element Boy's Topaz C3 Sneaker, several aspects stand out. The first is the level of comfort provided through its innovative strobel lasted construction. Unlike traditional shoes that may feel stiff, this sneaker adapts to the natural movements of your child’s foot, providing a more responsive fit.
Another noteworthy feature is the sneaker's commitment to sustainability. The use of organic cotton canvas and recycled rubber in the outsole aligns with eco-friendly values, allowing parents to make responsible choices without sacrificing style or quality.
In terms of design, the vibrant turquoise color adds a playful touch while maintaining versatility, suitable for various outfits. Furthermore, the lightweight EVA insock significantly improves breathability, which is crucial for active kids who are constantly on the move.
However, some users have reported that the sneaker may take a little time to fully break in, so it might not be immediately comfortable for every child. Additionally, while the outsole is durable, it doesn't provide as much grip on slippery surfaces compared to other sneakers designed specifically for outdoor use.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score (out of 5) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5 | Highly flexible and breathable for everyday wear. |
| Durability | 4.0 | Built to withstand active play, though traction could improve. |
| Sustainability | 5.0 | Exceptional use of eco-friendly materials. |
| Design | 4.5 | Vibrant and stylish while remaining practical. |
| Value for Money | 4.0 | Offers good value considering the focus on sustainability and comfort. |
User Reviews
This "Element Unisex-Child Topaz C3 Sneaker (Big Kid (8-12 Years), 4 Big Kid, Chambray Medium Grey)" is a great pair of sneaker for kids. We got the "grey" variant and in my opinion, it is the best one to get out of the 3 (black, blue and grey). The texturized grey color is what sold me on it. It also comes with 2 different colors of laces, a pair of black and a pair of white; this came as a nice surprise there is no indication of such in the product listing or the product pictures.This pair seems to be well made and sturdy, and also with recycled materials too (I like the company Element's commitment to try to be eco & environmental friendly). The design is simple, yet stylish. Fits well for my 12yo, and she said that they are very comfortable for her.The only one thing, this product seems like quite a lot of price variation between the different sizes and different color variants. Some cost almost half price vs others. So, it is hard to comment on the value of this pair. Mine is at $38 and I still think that it is pretty fine and pretty good at this price. But there are ones that is as low as $22, and I think that is an absolute steal (if you like the color and the size fits your needs).Thank you for reading this review, I hoped that this review & the pictures are helpful to you in support of your purchase decision.
Element Unisex-Child Topaz C3 Sneaker (Big Kid (8-12 Years), 4 Big Kid, Canvas Open Black)My daughter & I both loved the look of these shoes, which have the classic skater looks of the Vans she recently outgrew. These shoes have have so many cool details (multicolored soles, unique treads, printed lining, alternate pair of bright yellow laces). Unfortunately, they run SUPER small, contrary to Amazon's sizing advice. Maybe the sizing is less dramatic in other sizes, but the size 4 was WAY off. For reference, her feet are certainly not narrow, but she doesn't wear wide sizing, and we haven't had to nix a pair of shoes in her size for being too narrow since preschool (she's in 4th grade now). She wears a straight size 4 in every brand of kid shoes she has, with room for socks, but in this brand, she could barely cram her foot in barefoot, and they were tight enough to already hurt without even standing up.I checked them sole-to-sole against all her other shoes, including dress shoes, which tend to run a little smaller, and the width was about 1/2" narrower in the forefoot (heels were about the same) and 3/8 - 1/2" shorter in length than the 6 other size 4 shoes in her current rotation. The last these shoes use is also rather pointed, so the length/width at other parts of the forefoot are even more dramatic. Unless you're working with narrow feet, I'd highly recommend sizing up if you'd normally but a size 4 (I can't speak to the other sizes).
I am actually a petite female but getting kids she's for myself is new to me! Now I can highly recommend it to anyone. The shoes worked out just great and I like wearing them day to day. I even got a few compliments.One weird part has been the very long laces. I don't even know how to tie my shoes to that extent. But again, not a big issue and I like the comfort of wearing these.My suggestion is to watch out for kids who are close to needing ergonomic shoes. These might not be a good fit in those cases.
I ordered these sneakers for my fashion-forward son and they have been great so far. I really appreciated that these included two color options for laces, white and black, so we can switch the laces at any point. They seem to run true to size and are very comfortable. These shoes are very versatile and are great for both casual/semi-formal occasions depending on how you style them. They seem to be well made and even though they aren't running sneakers, they are decently supportive and are great for wearing every day. Overall, these are comfortable and stylish sneakers for kids.
The quality of the shoe is fantastic. My son wears a 3.5 and I ordered a 4.5 because of the reviews stating they run small. The 4.5 is too small. I was unable to exchange for a larger size so he cannot wear them. Very disappointed.
The Element Brand has been around about 30 years, based out of Orange County and have stores worldwide. We love to shop there for the entire family, mostly apparel and shoes.Their merchandise is always quality products especially the shoes, since the kids are tough on them. I don’t recall seeing the Topez C3 style for kids in the store so was super excited to see them on Amazon. The color Chambray Medium Grey is perfect to wear with his school uniform as well as his street clothes. He likes the style and says they feel comfortable. Good price and a quality shoe that won’t fall apart. The shoes come with both white and black laces.
I actually found these to be quite high quality and well made. There are no strings hanging and the sole is in tact and place. I got them in a 3 for my daughter who is between a 3 and 4 and these were a perfect fit with space where the big toe is. They are very cute and high quality. She didn't have a problem with them being uncomfortable after a long day of wear at school, though she doesn't prefer them to athletic shoes for pre athletics class. However, they come with a second pair of strings that match the design of the interior of the shoes. There is a very nice green design inside the shoe that is a nice tough. Highly recommended.
Well I’m super bummed. I got these for my daughter and she didn’t even get a chance to wear them because they run small! I know she is a size 3 in big kids shoes so I bought these but we couldn’t shove her foot inside.The color is very pretty, like really really pretty!and the shoes are so well made!The two lace colors are a fun option.The sole feels cushioned nicely and the inside of the shoe is perfectly plush.Lesson learned: next time buy a size up.