Our verdict
Between the Atoms Shoes and the Rothy’s Mary Jane, we lean toward the Atoms Shoes — we rated it 6.5/10 versus 5.5/10. Versatile and eco-friendly, but the polyurethane-knit upper makes feet sweat excessively, losing to Allbirds despite being $10 cheaper.
Our pick
Atoms Shoes
Rothy’s Mary Jane
Side by side
| Attribute | Atoms Shoes | Rothy’s Mary Jane |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 6.5/10 | 5.5/10 |
| Best for | Versatile and eco-friendly, but the polyurethane-knit upper makes feet sweat excessively, losing to Allbirds despite being $10 cheaper. | Gorgeous style derailed by fragile bow straps that rip from normal wear and Rothy's refusal to stand behind the design flaw. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Atoms Shoes if…
Versatile and eco-friendly, but the polyurethane-knit upper makes feet sweat excessively, losing to Allbirds despite being $10 cheaper.
- Minimalist design works with any outfit
- Stretch laces cinch up well for snug fit
Choose the Rothy’s Mary Jane if…
Gorgeous style derailed by fragile bow straps that rip from normal wear and Rothy's refusal to stand behind the design flaw.
- Elegant style with cute bow and vegan leather sole
- Very comfortable fit with slightly rounded toe
Why we rate them this way
Atoms Shoes — 6.5/10
Versatile and eco-friendly, but the polyurethane-knit upper makes feet sweat excessively, losing to Allbirds despite being $10 cheaper.
What we liked: Minimalist design works with any outfit, Stretch laces cinch up well for snug fit, Vegan and 100% recyclable materials, Copper threading minimizes odor, Lightweight with good cushioning.
Worth knowing: Feet sweat significantly; polyurethane-knit upper lacks breathability, Uncomfortable to wear without socks due to moisture, Simple design doesn't justify the $135 price point, Loses to Allbirds Tree Dashers on breathability at similar price.
Rothy’s Mary Jane — 5.5/10
Gorgeous style derailed by fragile bow straps that rip from normal wear and Rothy's refusal to stand behind the design flaw.
What we liked: Elegant style with cute bow and vegan leather sole, Very comfortable fit with slightly rounded toe, Sustainable materials made from recycled plastic, Good price ($155) for the comfort and quality, Bow can be tied multiple ways.
Worth knowing: Bow straps rip after minimal wear due to design requiring very tight tying, Rothy's won't repair, replace, or exchange—only offers $30 discount on replacement, Customer service has declined; brand less responsive to durability issues, Bow requires constant retying or comes undone throughout the day.
Common questions
Is the Atoms Shoes or the Rothy’s Mary Jane better?
We rated the Atoms Shoes 6.5/10 and the Rothy’s Mary Jane 5.5/10, so we lean Atoms Shoes — but it depends on what you want it for (see "which one is right for you" on the page).
What's the difference between the Atoms Shoes and the Rothy’s Mary Jane?
Short version — Atoms Shoes: Versatile and eco-friendly, but the polyurethane-knit upper makes feet sweat excessively, losing to Allbirds despite being $10 cheaper. Rothy’s Mary Jane: Gorgeous style derailed by fragile bow straps that rip from normal wear and Rothy's refusal to stand behind the design flaw.