beyond the birkenstock: the one walking sandal i swear by

& other summer shoes I'm eyeing

Arguably the most important summer shoe is the walking sandal. Something comfortable you can walk in for beach days, travel, or just running errands when it’s hot out. Like many, I have a pair of Birkenstock Arizonas (the silver ones from the Proenza collab) that are very much a beater pair of walking sandals. Packable and lightweight, they’re an easy choice but to be honest…I get bored of them. Maybe because it’s become a familiar silhouette I see everywhere, but I’m just not inspired by them.

Below: the one walking sandal I swear by and a few other summer shoes I’m eyeing.

Suzanne Rae Velcro Platform

I’ve had these shoes for a few years and swear by them for walking. The sole cushions are ultra pillowy, and the velcro straps keep your foot locked in snug. They come in a few different colors—I have the dark green. On hot days they’re my go-to breathable walking shoe. They manage to straddle the line between utility and style so well. In fall I wear them with thick socks and adjust the velcro straps to accommodate the extra fabric. So for me, they’re a true perennial shoe. They’re also very TALL. Maybe 3 inches? This means they are the perfect shoe for long pants or dresses that I can’t wear with other shoes without the hems dragging on the ground. People always remark “I didn’t know Teva made platforms!” I recommend checking on TheRealReal for these, that’s where I got my pair.

Nikki Chasin Deco Slide

Nikki Chasin is an under-the-radar designer and I particularly love her eye for prints. These art deco motif slides have retro appeal, and looks supportive enough for light walks. They’re on the feminine side of the picks. I would style this with a simple cotton dress, or a smart brown trouser and sheer socks for fall.

Miista Laranya Slides

These are giving high fashion Chacos. I have a pair of Miistas with the rock climbing rope detail—it’s so distinct and visually interesting. They look sturdy and comfortable. I love the idea of wearing them with a relaxed slouchy jean and tube top. Ideal for sporty tomboy looks. Like jorts or boxers. They also come in a hypnotic purple colorway.

Camper Kaah Wedge

Camper is excellent in the sandal department, consistently putting out campy chic designs like the famed Kobarahs that Solange wore once. I like the Kaah wedge, which plays on the signature “puffy” design of Camper shoes with the heel shape. Consider these are your sandal version of the staple white sneaker: wear with a tank top and jeans or a breezy slip dress.

Marni Fussbett Sandal

For a period in….20221? I was obsessed with the Marni Fussbetts and almost purchased them on TheRealReal a few times. I never ended buying them because I felt like my Suzanne Rae Velcros filled that wardrobe “gap.” Like if I had both shoes, I would find myself just choosing the velcro platforms most times. That said, I do really love them especially in the green colorway. The thick cross straps and gold hardware make it the most luxe pick of the list.

yours truly,

viv