Summer means one thing – it is officially flats season! Brands are brimming with selections that build the body up – both physically and mentally – with stability and comfort.

In yoga, “grounding” brings focus on connecting with the earth to calm. Rooting down through the feet reduces stress and brings awareness to the body.

Summer is a time to rid us of things that don’t serve us – and in this case, it is uncomfortable shoes!

Scott McCabe, director of omni channel merchandising and brand experience for Mephisto brings attention to flat sandals that look fresh and modern. “Apparel trends are being driven by the ’geek’ brands like Marni, Maison Margiela, Miu Miu, Dries van Noten….so sneakers and sandals are lower profiles, flats, or mid/chunky heels. It’s not a Dolce moment,” he explains.

The look can also take on a small, fashionable wedge or become more action-oriented, with an athletic twist.    

“With all the momentum with athletic in the footwear industry today, there’s a shift toward incorporating high-performance running technology into open-toe footwear,” says Ryan Erickson CEO of Amento Footwear. “Sneaker-inspired features like deeper rubber lugs, plush EVA topsoles, and internal plates give consumers the durability and stability of an athletic shoe with the breathability and freedom of a sandal,” the exec continues.

The Comfort Co President Liam Bourke concurs. “Consumers want their summer footwear to provide the same high-rebound cushioning and multi-terrain traction found in their favorite active sneakers,” he notes. “It allows brands to offer medical-grade support hidden within a technical, ‘city-ready,’ aesthetic appealing to the modern active lifestyle.”

SUMMERTIME SANDAL TRENDS

Shoppers are favoring a wide variety of fully-functioning flats. “Performance, comfort, and versatility are the directives of the consumer,” explains Rich Rask, president, Rieker Shoe Corp.

Here are three trends we’re seeing in the sandal category for men and women.

ACTIVE ENDEAVORS

According to Jill Butler, director of merchandising, ECCO Americas, “An unsupported slide no longer satisfies a consumer who’s accustomed to wearing athletic or performance footwear every other day of the week.” Some active sandals have added health benefits. The Sofia from Xelero, for example, is “effective in alleviating or reducing issues like plantar fasciitis, and related pain in the knees or lower back,” says Xelero CEO Dan Werremeyer.

TEVA / HURRICANE XLT3

The newest evolution of the brand’s iconic Hurricane XLT2, this adventure-ready sandal has been overhauled with improved tech. Updated with a cushy, textured topsole for enhanced comfort, it still has the same quick-dry straps, padded heel, and adjustable Universal Strapping System that made the original a fan favorite. MSRP $100.

XELERO/SOFIA

Designed to provide a balance of support and cushioning, Sofia features Xelero’s technology which improves foot function leading to reduced strain on muscles, joints and ligaments. A supple ergonomic footbed,  slip-resistant outsole, and three adjustable straps provide a custom fit. MSRP $159.99.

SKECHERS/D’LITES – HAPPILY YOURS

This vegan sling back sandal features a webbing upper with embroidered flowers, adjustable straps, and a Yoga Foam cushioned comfort footbed. The machine washable style touts a flexible traction outsole. Available in gray, blush and black. MSRP $70.

ECCO/OFFROAD

The Offroad Yucatan walking sandal is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and it’s being celebrated with fresh colorways and materials. The shoe is built on comfort, functionality, and versatility with features including adjustable straps, a durable rubber outsole and molded EVA footbed with soft microfiber cover for stability. MSRP $140.

AMENTO/MARTLETT

The Martlett features an embedded carbon fiber plate in the sole, just like the ones in elite running shoes. The shoe provides structure and support, without adding any unnecessary weight. A dial-based Fast Twist Closure System (FTCS), allows for micro-adjustments. Available for men and women, Martlett is zero-chafe and easily sheds water. MSRP $140.

ALL-OUT ADJUSTABILITY

Customization is an ask from many customers, and it doesn’t have to mean shelling out a fortune. “Features like multiple points of adjustability, contoured comfort, arch support, soft leathers, and slip-resistant outsoles help make sandals feel personalized and wearable for long days,” comments Alegria Designer Emily Hagen.

RIEKER/REGINA

Regina features a flexible, long-wearing polyurethane outsole with a contoured comfort footbed. The unique stretch mesh textile fits a wide variety of feet and the shock-absorbing sole with wedge heel dresses it up. The elastic bands allow for easy on/off. MSRP $125.

ALEGRIA/KENZI

Taking on an open-toed, sport-hybrid silhouette, Kenzi was designed to bring Alegria’s personality into active sandals. The shoe combines water-repellent leathers, metallic details, artisan-inspired hardware, arch support, soft and four points of adjustability with hook-and-loop straps. A wide toe box supports natural toe shape. MSRP $120.

TAOS/SCRIBBLE

Fun and functional, three adjustable leather straps provide a custom fit with subtle punches of color. Inside, a signature PU footbed lined with premium suede provides arch support, while the cork/EVA midsole excels in promoting lightweight, all-day comfort. MSRP $160.

MIA VITA/CANDICE

The brand’s best-selling sandal presents a versatile choice for those seeking a modern, strappy silhouette offering cushioning and support. Soft leather straps and two points of adjustability to ensure a secure, personalized fit. Featured here in the Jade Multi colorway. MSRP $149.95.

REMONTE/JOCELYN

A sporty base offers function and an all-day upper keeps it versatile. Jocelyn includes fully adjustable forefoot and ankle straps on a sturdy, two-toned wedge heel, along with a removable, contoured soft footbed. MSRP $130.

THONG SONG

Consumers are gravitating toward silhouettes that blend wellness-focused features (like recovery) with fashion-forward styling. Popular options include toe-post sandals and strappy designs, notes Revitalign Director of Product Development, Kele Leistritz. “These silhouettes not only provide the aesthetic appeal consumers desire but also deliver the functional benefits they need for active, on-the-go lifestyles,” comments the exec.

MEPHISTO/IZAORA

This updated classic cork sandal is ideal for those looking to elevate the comfort of the brand’s Helen slide, with a luxurious twist. The leather is fully lined, and it is accented with dressy hardware. SOFT-AIR midsole helps reduce shock to a minimum for a smooth, fatigue-free walk. MSRP $239.

HUK/ROGUE ISLAND

Featuring Huk’s Grip-X traction technology, engineered to deliver secure footing even on wet, unpredictable surfaces, the Rogue Island Flip Flop also has a waveform footbed, durable toe post, and a comfort-stretch strap for a secure, all-day fit. MSRP $85.

BEDROCK/ROCKHOUND SANDAL

The brand’s first adjustable flip flop, the Rockhound is available in quick-dry webbing and Nubuck leather, and boasts performance details such as Vibram soles, patented adjustable straps, and a supportive 3D+ footbed. MSRP $130.

REVITALIGN/YUMI STAR

Yumi Star is a patriotic twist on the brand’s original orthotic thong sandal. A cherry red colorway is fit for celebrating America’s 250th anniversary in style. A deep heel cup promotes proper alignment and reduces foot fatigue, while a full contact comfort footbed ensures all-day support. MSRP $79.99.