Wiley Grenson Sandals - David
I don't own sandals and they're not on my short-term wishlist , unlike moccasins or a small pair of espadrilles.
Nevertheless, I would let myself be tempted one day and I readily admit it when I find successful ones.
My choice fell on these sandals from the English brand Grenson. I like them for four reasons:
- First of all, they are made of suede leather , which I find rather original because I haven't seen many suede sandals.
- Then, I like this yoke on the front that looks like a tongue. I find it quite aesthetic, it allows you to cover the foot a little more (which is a good thing if you are afraid of showing your feet) and it is rather a good thing for support in the shoe.
- The tightening buckle is on the side of the heel while it is more likely to be found at the instep. Clever little twist.
- Finally, the leather insole and the rubber outsole seem to me to be the right combination for sandals of this type, to ensure comfort and grip.
As I write these lines, there are still sizes from 40 to 43 (from 6UK to 9UK) and the pair is on sale at -50%.
The place of manufacture is not indicated. We can assume without certainty that the clothing is Indian, because Grenson has part of his collection made there.
Hita Geta Snow Peak Sandals - Jérôme
It's the story of a thwarted love at first sight, with a little surprise and a nice find for the summer. Originally, there was a magnificent pair of Yuketen sandals in my basket: it's impossible to take my eyes off them since, and of course their (temporary?) unavailability only makes them even more desirable.
So what can we do to stop thinking about it? Forget the sandals, go on a little adventure... and even if it means being surprised, why not take a look at the centuries-old traditions of the Rising Sun?
It is therefore in Japan, somewhere between the mountains, rivers and forests of the Hita region that these Geta revisited by the outdoor brand Snow Peak are made. Geta are the traditional sandals of the country. You will find all kinds of them and rest assured, you don't need to be a tightrope walker to wear them.
As for the Snow Peak brand, it is a story that has been passed down from father to son for 60 years now in the service of the outdoors (clothing, accessories and various equipment for wildlife lovers in particular). The products are beautiful, practical, with the promise of lasting a lifetime.
We don't know if these cedar wood sandals will withstand the ravages of time but for now, they are quite attractive, both modern and traditional. The ecru-colored strap goes well with that of the wood, and we can also note a rubber EVA sole glued underneath (for comfort and grip) which will perhaps appeal to running enthusiasts. Everything is announced made in Japan.
What to wear them with this summer? Let's imagine bare feet, a linen t-shirt , a noragi and wide pants , for the house, the beach or whatever you want, with ease.
As for those who have not planned to travel, in addition to sandals, I offer you a window of escape à la Tigre & Dragon, in replay all summer on Arte: A Touch Of Zen by King Hu, the most beautiful film of the kind I know, with drapery galore.
Uxma White Multi Chamula Sandals - Jordan
Have I lost my mind? Have I gone crazy?
To tell you the truth, I don't know. I feel like I still have all my sanity. However, this is not necessarily a good sign. Someone who is crazy will not spontaneously declare that he is crazy. Because he doesn't know it. From his point of view you are much crazier than him. He is in his reality.
Ok I'll stop.
I am in my reality. I discovered these sandals and said ok. I love the construction of these shoes. I like the colors chosen. I like that they are leather. I like that they show the toes.
However, will I be able to wear them? I have searched my soul and I answer yes. With wide, light white pants and a loose navy blue polo shirt for example. Oh yes, I can see myself there, somewhere on vacation, sitting on the terrace of a restaurant, mechanically moving my foot while waiting for the entrance. An elegant guy looks at my foot, he makes an approving pout. I wink at him. Yes, my guy. Jordan is in town .
The product sheet tells me that they are handmade in Mexico by indigenous artisans using ancestral manufacturing techniques. It's an intense statement. I like that. In addition, the leather has been vegetable tanned, that is to say with bark, plants etc. Which also enchants me quite a bit.
And to finally convince me, I read that the aesthetic of this sandal is inspired by an ancient Mayan city. I don't know if they mean that these were the kind of sandals they wore at that time or if there were towns in the shape of sandals, I ask to see, but I take it. The historical argument for clothing has always spoken to me.
El Fuso Buttero Flip Flops - Benoît
When it comes to flip flops and sandals, I love what the Italian brand Buttero does.
On this "El Fuso" model (available each year), I particularly like this mix between good puncture-proof leather and the more outdoor touch with the Vibram sole and the olive nylon strap.
As usual with Buttero, the assembly is very robust. The Vibram sole provides a lot of comfort when walking and also a lot of longevity.
In short, we have a pair of flip-flops that will last you several summers without any problem, and I even think that it is possible to resole them...
Tip: Buttero sandals and flip-flops are relatively easy to find on sale on Yoox.
Mr P. Sandals - Nicolò
Do you know what makes the strength of the brand of the large multi-brand e-shop Mr. Porter?
It is fueled by hundreds and thousands of sources of inspiration, which come from what Mr. Porter will select, often a year in advance, from the brands' offerings.
Afterwards, they can identify what works best in trends, including daring pieces... And do it again, a little less expensively, while making sure to make the product more mainstream. Sometimes, they even have access to the workshops of the brands in question, which greatly facilitates production to exacting standards similar to these brands.
And in my opinion, that's exactly what happened to these sandals.
Brown suede on beautiful smooth brown leather, comfortable sole that looks sturdy... Everything is there.
When I saw them side-by-side with these Gucci sandals in the "sandals" category on Mr. Porter, I thought to myself that they were probably inspired by the shape
After which, the brand's designer undoubtedly went through this and said to himself "Mhhm, we're going to use tone-on-tone bi-material to make the product a little luxurious, but not difficult to wear" .
Finally, there will undoubtedly be added the assembly of these Bottega Veneta , seen a little further down in the list, which seems both comfortable and robust, while keeping a flatter sole to reduce the massive side.
And that was it!
The result ? That’s because it works. These are some of the most stylish sandals I've seen this summer, and when it comes to sandals, that's not a word to throw around lightly.
