STICO NEC-03 Non-Slip Kitchen Shoes Review

Hi! Today I’m reviewing the kitchen shoes I’ve been wearing a lot lately. I used to keep buying cheap 10,000 won pairs on Coupang, but after getting a recommendation for STICO kitchen shoes, I tried them—and yes, they really felt different.

I bought mine in the 30,000 won range. The model is NEC-03 Black / size 220. One reason I chose STICO was that they make a 220 size. Most kitchen shoes start at 230, which was slightly big for me, so as soon as I saw the 220 size, I ordered it.

The shoes arrived neatly packed in a shoebox. The model I bought is not the newest model. At the time, the newest model was sold out in size 220, so I ended up buying the first-generation version.

There is also a second-generation PLUS version of the same model, so if your size is available, that may be a good option too.

This is how they look when worn. Size recommendation: the shape curves slightly inward around the instep, so if you have a high instep or a little more volume in your feet, I think going up one size would be better. I usually wear an average 220, and this pair fit exactly. The length was just right. If you want a snug fit, go true to size. If you want a bit more comfort or have a thicker instep, go one size up.

I really like the sturdy shape and simple logo. If your pants are long enough to cover the instep, they almost look like shoes you could wear outside.

The insole is a vivid orange. The first generation has the orange insole, and from the second generation it changed to black. I wanted the black insole too, so that part was a little disappointing. There are quite a few logos on the side, back, and insole.

These photos were taken in sunlight. Rather than feeling like typical kitchen shoes, they look cute, so I’m very satisfied wearing them. The outsole has non-slip coverage throughout, so I feel reassured wearing them. On a day when I used a lot of oil, I could definitely feel the difference. There used to be moments when I would suddenly slip a little, but with STICO, it felt like they held the floor firmly.

They’re easy to move in, and the insole is cushioned, so I felt less tired even after standing for a long time. As soon as they arrived, I actually pressed the insole first, and it felt nice and soft.

There are some precautions for cleaning and use, so it’s worth checking them. Especially after washing, if you dry them in strong sunlight, the shoe material can shrink a little. That’s something to be careful about.

This review is based on actually wearing them. If you have questions, feel free to message me. ❤️