Hello! We are KLD, a store specializing in buying and selling used brand clothing.
It's summer, and when it comes to what to wear on hot days, it's obviously sandals! On those humid, muggy days when you don't want to think about anything, how about some sports or outdoor sandals that are comfortable to wear and easy to put on and take off?
Just add them to your outfit without any thought and they will instantly look stylish and are comfortable to wear.
Are there any good items like this?
This time, we would like to introduce 12 recommended models based on six very basic brands.
"I want to try out sporty sandals, but I don't know what's available..." "I want to try out some classic sandals that I can wear for a long time!"
If you are interested, please come and see it.
From our perspective as a second-hand brand clothing store, we select items that can be used for a long time and are easy to sell.
Chaco
The first one we'd like to introduce is Chaco.
Chaco is a brand of outdoor sports sandals created by founder and rafting guide Mark Paigen.
The first thing that stands out about Chaco sandals is the webbing strap that is integrated into the midsole.
They are known for their comfortable fit and fit all foot shapes, including those with high insteps and wide feet.
In addition, the proprietary foot head (the part that touches the sole of the foot) has received a certain amount of praise for its healthy design, and the compound used as the material is made of high density, making it less likely to break, and is known for its high durability and cushioning.
Sandals become more popular in the summer for outdoor leisure activities and marine sports, and if you want a pair that you can wear comfortably for a long time, Chaco is the brand to consider first.
Click here for Chaco items
Z1 Classic
Source: chacos.jp
This is a classic Chaco model that goes without saying.
In terms of the sandal category, these are open-type sandals that allow all of your toes to be seen, and they are easy to put on and take off by simply adjusting the webbing strap mentioned above.
That said, the hold is excellent, and even those with unusual foot shapes looking for sandals that fit will surely be able to find one that fits them perfectly.
You can wear them at the beach or camping, so much so that the webbing pattern leaves tan lines, but I'm sure they'd also come in handy for more professional use and in rough situations like walking over rocks or fording rivers.
Available in a wide range of colors, you're sure to find a pair that suits your taste.
By the way, there seems to be a model called Z1X that comes in a color exclusive to Japan.
Z2 Classic
Source: chacos.jp
At first glance, it doesn't look much different from the Z1 Classic, but the Z2 actually has a webbing strap design that can secure your thumb.
In terms of functionality, it provides greater stability as it holds your thumb in place.
For example, this may be a better choice for those who are worried about walking on unstable rocks or using it in a river.
In addition to these practical reasons, these shoes may also be a good choice for people who simply find open-toed shoes too chilly and uncomfortable, or who often run in sandals.
The Z2 Classic has a single webbing strap design, but there is also a similar model called the ZX2 which has a two-strap design and is recommended for women and those looking for a watch for town use.
SHAKA
Source: shaka-jp.com
Shaka is a sandal brand that was born in South Africa in the 1990s.
Shaka sandals are instantly recognizable through their vibrant colors and striking webbing tape with geometric patterns, and a wide range of sandals are available, including open-toed models and models with ankle support.
Shaka was once discontinued in the 2000s, but was later revived, and as of 2021, collaboration models with various brands are being sold at famous Japanese select shops, among others.
It could be said that this is a brand that successfully incorporates trends while continuing to change in line with its brand identity.
Let's start by introducing two of Shaka's most representative models.
Check out SHAKA items here
Hiker
Source: shaka-jp.com
There is no model more synonymous with Shaka than the Hiker.
The webbing tape that runs all the way from the instep to the toe is not only eye-catching, but also highly functional.
In recent years, the sports sandals that have become popular are often open-toed models, which provide a sense of freedom and coolness, but when it comes to practical use, there are some concerns about protecting the nails and preventing scratches, so we don't recommend them.
Therefore, if you want to use them in serious outdoor situations, or if you want sandals that can be worn like sneakers, Shaka's Hikers would be a good choice.
It would also look great when combined with the pattern on the webbing strap to create an ethnic look.
The photo shows a flashy leopard pattern, but of course there is also a lineup of simple solid colors.
But why not go all out in the summer? Your options are now more varied.
Neo Bungy
Source: shaka-jp.com
The Neo Bungy is a three-strap model that adds an additional strap to the two-strap Bungy for a better hold.
People may either love or hate the Velcro straps, but the fact that you can loosen or tighten them depending on the situation is a great feature.
By the way, the Neo Bangy comes in a variety of variants, including the thick-soled "Neo Bungy Platform" that has become popular in recent years, the even more voluminous chunky sole "Neo Bungy Chunky," the "Neo Bungy AT" which uses seatbelt material for the straps and an AT sole which is said to be the most comfortable to wear, and the "Neo Bungy SF" which uses a tactical-looking SF sole. We recommend this shoe as you can choose the style that best suits your taste.
KEEN
Source: keenfootwear.com
KEEN is a relatively new brand, founded in the United States in 2003, but it is an outdoor footwear brand that has released a number of epoch-making models.
Recently, the company has also been contributing to society by providing footwear free of charge to people fighting the coronavirus in 2020.
Representative models include the approach shoe "Jasper," as well as serious mountain climbing shoes and trekking shoes.Although the brand is a newcomer, it is popular and trusted by many users, and it also has a model that has created a huge sensation in the sandal category, which we will introduce here.
Now, let's introduce some of the most popular sandal models from KEEN, a footwear brand that will continue to be a hot topic in the future.
Check out KEEN items here
Uneek
Source: keenfootwear.com
These open-air sneaker sandals are made with two braided cords and a single sole, giving them a unique look, just as the name suggests.
Since their introduction in 2014, these sandals have become an instant hit, and in recent years they have become so popular with both men and women that you're sure to see them at least once if you go out for a day outside of the summer season.
There is a wide range of colors available, from one-tone to multi-color combination models.
There are also a wide variety of related models available, including the Uneek Flat with flat cord, the Uneek Evo with a knit combination, the Uneek HT with a mesh bootie for chilly seasons, and the Uneek Slide with no heel strap, to suit a variety of occasions and styles.
Newport
Source: keenfootwear.com
Despite the recent Uneek boom, the Newport model remains as popular as ever.
This model is also known as the one that triggered Keen's global breakthrough in 2003 by answering the founder's simple question: "Can sandals protect your toes?", and it is still an iconic Keen model that frequently appears on the scene today.
The biggest feature is the toe protection that protects your toes even though they are sandals.
One of Keen's founders injured his toe while sailing, which led the brand to ask itself, "Can sandals protect your toes?" And if that injury hadn't occurred, Keen would probably not be what it is today.
In addition, the sole has a non-slip feature called siping, and the upper material is waterproof, making them suitable for both land and water use, and they are known as highly trusted sandals by outdoor professionals.
Salomon
Source: trailrunner.jp
When you hear the name Salomon, many people probably think of the brand for winter sports such as skis and snowboards.
However, in recent years the brand has expanded into the fields of trekking shoes, trail shoes, and water sports, giving it a slightly different impression from the typical casual-looking outdoor brands from the United States.
While Keen and Chaco have a curved, natural look, these have a somewhat urban and sophisticated look, which I think is unique to a French brand, but they are also highly rated not only for their appearance but also for their functionality.
There are also collaboration models with fashion shops and brands such as Beams and and wander, making this a brand that fashion-conscious people in particular will be paying close attention to.
Click here for SALOMON items
Speedcross sandals
Source: salomon.com
Speedcross is Salomon's signature trail running shoe, which has been updated five times from the original Speedcross to the current Speedcross 5, and this is the sandal model.
These sandals have a sporty, technical look that contrasts with the casual look seen in recent webbing types. If the former is likened to an SUV, then these give the impression of being somewhere between an SUV and a sports car.
Even though these sandals were made with an outdoor concept in mind, their urban and sophisticated design goes well with street and high fashion, and they are recommended for those who want to cool down and dress up their feet during the summer, when they tend to look unfashionable due to being too exposed.
Of course, the specifications such as cushioning and grip go without saying.
Tech SANDAL
Source: salomon.com
This is another strap sandal that is typical of Salomon, and is a model that combines comfort and durability for long-term use.
The appearance is also sophisticated, as the name “Tech” suggests, and it would be recommended for those who usually wear high-tech sneakers such as Nike or Adidas.
Your grandparents might scold you for being "bad manners!", but this model and other Salomon shoes include models that are designed to be worn by folding (stepping on) the heel, so you can wear them when you want a firm hold and when you want to wear them like sandals - a unique feature that you can't find anywhere else.
Teva
Source: teva.com
Founded in 1984, Teva was the first brand in the world to develop sports sandals.
It seems that it started as an ankle strap was added to existing flip-flops to make activities around water safer.
As you can see from their construction, the comfortable sole is moderately voluminous and can withstand water activities, which is why they are called "sandals you can run in," and they are extremely comfortable to wear.
The straps are simple and there are relatively few of them, giving a clean impression, so you can enjoy coordinating them with various socks even outside of summer, and they seem like they would be suitable all year round.
We will introduce some recommended Teva models that are perfect for beginners to sports sandals.
Click here for Teva items
HURRICANE XLT2
Source: teva.com
This is the successor to Teva's popular classic model, the HURRICANE XLT.
The simple, streamlined strap design is so typical of Teva, it's practically artistic.
Not only are they simple, but they are also highly functional, with a unique universal strap system that firmly holds your foot in three points and allows you to adjust the size to your liking.
The sole is made of EVA material, making it lightweight and comfortable to walk in.
You won't get tired even if you wear them all day, and they are sure to be useful for a wide range of occasions, from outdoor activities to everyday use in town.
Since there are few straps, they go well with socks, and you can have fun by choosing simple colored sandals and playing around with the color of your socks.
ORIGINAL UNIVERSAL
Source: teva.com
The ORIGINAL UNIVERSAL has a slightly simpler design in the sole and other areas than the aforementioned HURRICANE XLT2.
As one of the earliest models of original sports sandals, it has continued to be produced to this day through repeated model changes, making it a pair that even evokes a sense of romance.
They are very light, weighing approximately 193g per shoe, so they are recommended to carry in your bag when traveling.
It will come in handy not only for light activities at the beach or in a river, but also for relaxing walks while traveling.
These shoes also use a sturdy EVA sole, so despite their simple appearance, they are well-cushioned and won't tire you out even if you walk around all day.
They are relatively inexpensive, and there are colorful models that combine multiple strap colors, so you'll probably want to buy several pairs.
BIRKENSTOCK
Source: birkenstock.com
Sandals are Birkenstocks.
Although this brand is a little different from the sports/outdoor brands we have introduced so far, it is also recommended for those who are thinking, "Maybe I'd like a pair of sandals that are a little more suitable for wearing around town..." It is a well-known brand that does not need to be introduced here, but we thought we'd introduce it again.
Birkenstock is a German shoe brand with over 240 years of history, and is ranked in the top five shoe brands in the world, making it a shoe brand shared worldwide.
Sandals are especially popular in Japan, and I have owned several pairs myself.
The cork footrests that fit the wearer better and the names that include cities around the world are familiar to users, and these sandals are even sometimes called "healthy sandals" in Japan because of their characteristics.
There are so many models of sandals alone that it is difficult to narrow it down to two representative models, but this time we will introduce some of the most famous models.
Check out BIRKENSTOCK items here
Arizona
Source: birkenstock.com
When it comes to two-strap Birkenstock sandals, the Arizona and the thong-type Serrated sandals come to mind.
This isn't just limited to the Arizona, but all Birkenstock shoes generally feel a little uncomfortable when you first put them on, but as the aforementioned Foothead says, the shoes become more and more comfortable as you wear them, and before you know it, they fit so well you won't want to take them off.
The Arizona's two straps provide an excellent grip, making it recommended for short trips or as a slip-on bag for watering the garden, etc.
On the other hand, since only two rods are held in place, it may be a bit unstable and unsuitable when walking or in a hurry.
By the way, there is also a model called Milano that has a heel strap, although it can be a bit of a hassle to put on and take off.
Most shoes have cork soles and are made of a synthetic material that looks like leather, but there are also shoes made entirely of EVA, which are recommended if you are going to places where you may get wet.
Arizona in EVA material. Source: birkenstock.comBoston
Source: birkenstock.com
This is also a signature Birkenstock model, a so-called clog-type sandal that covers the toes like a slipper.
A good comparison would be Crocs.
Although there is a strap on the instep, it does not provide much stability, so if you plan on walking for long periods of time, a different model may be better.
However, because they can be easily put on and taken off like slippers, they are perfectly suited to the Japanese culture of taking shoes off both inside and outside the home.
There are many variations and collaboration models available in materials such as leather, nubuck, and suede, and the felt ones are great not only for outdoor wear in the winter but also as room shoes.
I would recommend these to anyone who wants the comfort of sandals but wants something a little more "shoe-like."
To those who read to the end
Thank you for reading to the end.There are many different brands of sports/outdoor sandals, so it can be difficult to decide which ones to choose, but this time we have introduced six basic brands.
All of the sandals from the brands introduced here are practical and comfortable to wear, so you can't go wrong if you choose something you like based on design.
I hope this helps you when choosing sandals!
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