How to choose "sports sandals" that look good both in the city and in the mountains | YUEN
When summer comes, do you find yourself wondering, "What shoes should I wear today?"
When I go out on a hot day and wear sneakers, my feet get sweaty and uncomfortable... But sandals don't feel secure, and the soles of my feet hurt when I walk for a long time. That's when I came across sports sandals, as I was wondering what shoes to choose for summer.
In this article, I'll explain the characteristics and selection of sports sandals, as well as share my own impressions of using them, and show you how to choose the perfect pair for light outdoor activities like camping and festivals.
table of contents
What exactly are sports sandals?
"Sports sandals" are items that combine the lightness of sandals with the stability of sneakers.
The design is focused on ease of movement and comfort, with straps that firmly secure the instep and ankle, and a cushioned sole.
Recently, they have also been called "sports sandals," and there has been an increase in designs that blend in naturally not only in outdoor scenes but also in urban areas.
Although it's not suitable for serious mountain climbing or harsh environments, it's perfect for casual outdoor activities like festivals, camping, or strolling around on a trip.
Wearing sneakers in the middle of summer can make your feet feel sweaty and uncomfortable, but regular sandals can also cause pain in the soles of your feet when walking for long periods of time.
The heat from the ground is directly transmitted to you, which can make you tired.
Sports sandals with a firm sole and a secure hold can help alleviate these concerns.
Why choose sports sandals?
When I tried wearing the sports sandals, I felt that they had an excellent balance between the comfort of sandals and the security of shoes.
They don't make your feet sweaty on hot days, but they don't feel too barefoot either, making them very comfortable to wear.
✔ Easy to walk in and less tiring
Thanks to the cushioned sole, your feet won't hurt even if you walk for a long time.
Previously, when I went to a festival wearing sandals with thin soles, the soles of my feet were tingling for the entire second half of the festival, so this was a welcome feature.
✔ Easy to put on and take off, perfect for summer
Even though it has straps, it can be quickly put on and taken off using the hook-and-loop fasteners and buckles, making it convenient for getting in and out of a tent or sleeping in a car.
They're also comfortable to wear barefoot, making them perfect for hot and humid days.
✔ Suitable for both outdoor and urban use
Sports sandals like YUEN don't have a typical outdoor look, and many of their designs are easy to incorporate into everyday outfits, which is another attractive feature.
Personally, I would also use it when going to a "slightly stylish riverside cafe."
Sports sandal trends to watch in 2025
The trend I feel this year is that we are entering an era where people are choosing "just the right look and feel."
This balanced approach is likely to be the main trend in 2025.
Subdued colors are popular
Colors that aren't too bold, such as black, beige, and olive, stand out.
It's not too flashy and goes well with any outfit, so it's great that it can be easily matched with your existing wardrobe.
Focus on eco-friendly materials and upcycling
Recently, there has been an increase in models made from recycled nylon and regenerated rubber.
At YUEN, we also try to choose items that are environmentally friendly and have a high level of design.
There's no need to be intimidated by the word "ethical"; just use it as one of your criteria for making your choices.
Unisex designs are becoming mainstream
There is also an increasing number of simple designs that can be worn by both men and women.
Many people enjoy wearing matching sports sandals with their partners or family, and the wide range of sizes available makes it easy to choose.
How to Choose Sports Sandals | 5 Points to Avoid
If you choose something based on its appearance alone, thinking "This is cute!", you may find that after walking around for a while you realize "Maybe it wasn't quite right after all."
I myself have had that experience several times.
Here are five points that I have found important to find the perfect pair of shoes for you.
① Does it fit well?
Sandals that firmly secure the instep, ankle, and heel give you a different sense of stability when walking.
Be careful, as your feet moving around inside your sandals can easily cause blisters and make you feel unnecessarily tired.
② Thickness and cushioning of the sole
For me, this might be the biggest point.
Once, I walked around all day in sandals with thin soles, and by the time I got home, the soles of my feet were numb.
Since then, I've started choosing pillows that are somewhat thick and cushioned.
The way I get tired is completely different.
3) Grip performance
There are surprisingly many slippery places, such as grass, gravel roads, and wet ground.
To ensure I can walk safely in such situations, I always carefully consider the pattern and texture of the soles before choosing shoes.
④ Breathable and quick-drying
Breathable materials are by far the most comfortable during the sweaty seasons or when spending time near water.
If the shoes dry quickly even after getting wet, you can wear them comfortably and won't feel uncomfortable after getting wet.
⑤ Fashion compatibility
Colors that are easy to match with everyday clothes are more versatile than you might think.
Basic colors like black, khaki, and beige are especially useful.
At YUEN, we mainly offer nuanced colors that go well with such outfits.
YUEN's recommended sports sandal style
Don't you have the image that "outdoor specifications = bulky"?
At YUEN, we value functionality as well as designs that look good in the city.
Here are some combinations I've tried that I've enjoyed:
◆ Wide pants + platform sandals for a fashionable look
Pairing loose wide pants with thick-soled sports sandals will bring your center of gravity lower, giving your outfit a balanced look.
It adds volume to your feet, so even if you're just wearing a T-shirt, it doesn't look too casual and gives off an urban vibe.
◆ Be active with shorts and functional sports sandals
The perfect combination for hot and humid days. Shorts and sports sandals make for a light and easy-to-move look.
On a camping morning, when I was able to walk safely on the wet grass, I thought, "I could wear sandals in these."
◆ Linen set + slim sports sandals for a resort feel
Pairing loose linen with thin-strap sports sandals creates an outfit that makes you want to stop by a cafe on your travels.
I was a little worried about whether I'd be able to walk properly in these shoes, but they were surprisingly stable and I had no problem walking around town.
Summary: Sports sandals are more than just a summer staple
Sports sandals are easy to wear, look trendy, and are reliable.
It's not serious mountain climbing or trekking, but it's perfect for those who want to go a little further away or spend some time relaxing outside.
It's the perfect companion for times like these.
Having comfortable feet can make all the difference in your day.
Perfect for summer outdoor activities, festivals, and walking around town.
Find the perfect pair of shoes to suit your lifestyle at YUEN.