FAQ/ MONK SANDALS
1. Can a person who does not like flip-flops walk/run in the Monte Silentia model?
This is a very individual matter. Many users of this model confirm that, despite their reluctance to classic flip-flops, they are not troubled by the string between the fingers. The main difference is that Monks are lighter than most flip-flops, and they have a system of straps holding the foot, thanks to which the weight of the entire shoe is not held only between the two toes. The second difference is the material - in Monks you will find a soft string, and in flip-flops usually hard rubber. It is worth noting that Monks require a moment of time and patience to adapt to your foot - the first walks / workouts may turn out to be moderately comfortable, but over time it will change.
2. Will I hurt myself in minimalist sandals (zero drop, 10mm sole, no toe protection)?
You probably reach for minimalist sandals, because you have in mind the desire to be closer to nature and the good of your whole body :) And that's what Monki provide. Thanks to zero drop, the risk of injury decreases rather than increases, but you have to take into account that minimalism = the need for greater mindfulness in the field. So much depends on how you will use them. The 10mm sole provides sufficient comfort to move around forest areas, gravel roads enough to protect the foot against mechanical damage, while maintaining a great feel of the terrain.
3. How to adjust the straps?
It is worth tightening the straps well at the beginning and loosening them over time, when the sandals adjust to your feet. A different arrangement may work when running, another when walking, another on ascents, another on descents. In the Monte Silentia model, place the buckle in the middle of the foot, parallel to the toes. Come, run, check, change.
You can find some instructions in the videos:
-Monte Silentii: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-OT7cwccso&t=44s
-Manaslu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6w5wJkVbiS8
4. What models of sandals does Monk Sandals currently offer?
Currently, the offer includes three models of sandals:
Monte Silentii - a model designed for running, 10mm Vibram sole, also great for walking; "Japanese ala" construction prevents the foot from slipping forward: https://shop.monksandals.com/pl/17-bieganie
Manaslu - a model designed for walking, 10mm Vibram sole, Thanks to the snap buckle, sandals are put on very quickly without the need for additional adjustment: https://shop.monksandals.com/pl/16-walking
Ruivo - the most minimalist sandals from the entire Monk Sandals collection, 5mm Vibram sole: https://shop.monksandals.com/pl/glowna/79-43906-sandals-minimalist-ruivo-plus-5mm-vibram.html#/50- size-37/78-leather_lining-yes/119-color_stripes-brown
5. What sole thicknesses are available?
Currently, the offer includes a Vibram 10mm and 5mm sole. The 10mm sole provides minimalism and comfort while moving on natural terrain (gravel, stones, roots), it is flexible and light, it does not roll up. The 5mm sole is true minimalism - it provides a very good feeling of the ground, is very flexible (it can be rolled up), has a denser structure, and thus a similar weight as the 10mm sole, is more demanding for the feet.
6. What padding options are available?
Three lining options are available:
- no padding (only Vibram sole)
- Cordura lining (synthetic material)
- leather lining (natural material)
Cordura is a synthetic material with a slightly rough texture, which makes it better suited to wet conditions (the foot slips less). It dries quickly, is abrasion resistant and easy to clean.
Leather is a natural material, so leather reacts better than when in contact with synthetic material (e.g. in terms of smell). It becomes slippery when wet and takes longer to dry than Cordura. After some time of use, dark footprints naturally appear on the leather lining (changes color).
7. How to choose the right Monk size?
It is very important to use the instructions and templates available in our store before ordering Monks (https://shop.monksandals.com/pl/content/6-instrukcje). The shape of the sandal on the template printed in 1:1 scale reflects the actual size of the sole, so print the template according to your foot measurement, put your foot on it and check if it fits. Allow for 3mm margin in the front and back for the natural movement of the foot during movement.
When ordering, do not rely on the size of your other shoes. It is worth taking the time to check the template - this guarantees the fit of the sandals.
8. What should I do if my foot is bigger/smaller than the available size?
If your foot is slightly smaller/bigger than our scale (e.g. 36 or 47), we recommend checking the smallest/largest template available - it may turn out to be suitable. If not, measure your foot according to the instructions (https://shop.monksandals.com/en/content/6-instructions),when ordering select
9. I have two feet in different sizes - is it possible to make two different soles?
Yes, it is possible to make the sole for the left and right foot in other sizes. Use the templates (https://shop.monksandals.com/en/content/6-instructions), check the size for both feet and when placing the order, write in the comment what size you need for which foot.
10. What is the delivery time for orders?
It depends on what time of the year you place your order. During the summer season (June-August) the lead time is usually around 3 weeks plus delivery time. In spring and autumn we work in a week, up to two. And in the winter season, we send sandals on a regular basis in a few days.
11. What are the delivery options?
In Poland, you can choose to send by parcel locker or courier. We send parcels abroad via Poczta Polska.
12. Is it possible to pick up in person?
At the moment, we do not allow personal collection.
13. Where can I try on Monks?
Monk Sandals is an online store, we do not run a stationary store and the only possibility to try on and feel the sandals is in our workshop by appointment.
14. What are Velcro strips for?
Velcro straps are mounted on the main strap of running sandals. The straps are perfect for varied terrain where the foot works hard, i.e. ascents, descents, stones, unevenness, streams, mud fragments. The straps are interchangeable, so you can take them off and put them on at any time.
15. Is it possible to return/exchange sandals?
Yes, sandals that have no signs of use can be returned or exchanged once after contacting us. More info: return&exchange
16. I would like to order sandals for my child - how do I do it?
We do not make sandals for children (i.e. small sizes).
17. The soles of my sandals are in good condition, but the straps are wearing out - what should I do?
It is possible to regenerate sandals in which the sole is in good condition by replacing the straps with new ones. Select the "replacement of straps" option in the store, send them to us and the Monks will last for a long time.
18. I order the Monte Silentia model and I don't know what the hole number is about?
The hole number is the point where the drawstring between the toes of your sandals will be located. It depends on the size and structure of the foot. If you use the templates available here: https://shop.monksandals.com/pl/content/6-instructions, everything will be clear.
19. Do you ship sandals to Malaysia/France/USA?
Yes, we ship Monks around the world. We use the services of the Polish Post.
20. How to clean Monks? Can I wash them in the washing machine?
Monks are durable but delicate creatures ;) Don't throw them in the washing machine and don't dry them directly in the sun if you don't want them to pupate. All you need is lukewarm water, a toothbrush, soap and drying in a ventilated place.
We recommend our cleaning kit: https://shop.monksandals.com/pl/glowna/78-zestaw-do-czyczenia-sandalow.html
21. After receiving my sandals, I went for a 10 kilometer walk and the strap rubbed my foot. What to do?
Monks, like any other shoes, and maybe even more because of their minimalism, take time to adjust to your feet. Give them time, and they will become as comfortable as slippers - the sole will bend into a boat and adapt to the shape of the foot, the straps will develop. We recommend starting the first walks/running slowly and carefully from a maximum of a few kilometers to avoid chafing. We also suggest not to wear new Monks for long trekking or running competitions - in small steps.