Forget dad sneakers, this summer is all about dad sandals. The family's most unlikely fashion icon is at it again this summer. For the past few seasons, dad's penchant for anything chunky, ugly and uber comfortable has dominated the footwear market. Sportswear giants like Nike have resurfaced old dad favourites in response. Big fashion houses have been slugging it out with their rivals for dad's approval. The trend has brought back the 990 and the Air Monarch. It's given us the freakishly oversized Balenciaga Triple S and Trail Runner. It's easy to spot the trend. Think Steve Jobs in Yohji polo necks, Levi's and New Balance. When Kanye showed the Yeezy 700 v2 to Letterman, that was peak dad sneaker.
Well, dad's penchant for ugly aesthetics and maximum cushioning is somehow chic again this summer, and it's spread to sandals. Forget Adilettes with matching socks, or Haviana's with a fresh set of shellacs and a cute anklet. No, this season it's all about velcro strapping, chunky sole units and orthopaedic footbeds. Your style cues? Picture dad manning the barbie, overcooking sausages in some open toe sandals. See Tyler the Creator in socks and Teva's. Think exposed hairy toes and dry, cracked heels on German tourists. Check out Post Malone or Shia LaBeouf in crocs.
But don't take our word for it, Farfetch endured dad dancing, dad jokes and dad bods, all to bring you the best advice on flip-flops, slides and sandals this summer:
'Birkies' are worn by everyone from Instagram influencers to crusty old hippies and with good reason. The German sandal manufacturers are famed for their cork footbeds which have orthopaedic properties and have miraculously cured many a foot condition. Very ‘your dad at Woodstock’.
◀ Shop this style: Birkenstock Black Arizona Pony Skin Sandals
Cult Japanese brand Suicoke started out making small accessories like Japanese hand-painted dolls but have since turned their hand to make the most utilitarian and high-performance sandals on the market. With features like neoprene panelling, technical nylon straps, drawstring closures and Vibram soles and a variety of distinct colourways, you'll never have to compromise on flair or function.
▶ Shop this style: Suicoke Leopard Print Sheep Skin And Calf Hair Sandals
The Gucci Flashtrek was a much-welcomed latecomer to the chunky dad sneaker scene. It's a combination of oversized proportions, hiking details and ironic embellishments made for a fugly yet fun shoe. The same detailing can be seen on Gucci's sandal offerings this season. Perfect for the glam hiker in you.
▼ Shop this style: Gucci Brown Aguru Leather And Mesh Hiking Sandals // Gucci Mens Leather And Mesh Sandal // Gucci Sandal With Studs
When Balenciaga sent Crocs down the runway, it was a moment that declared clogs officially in. If rubber shoes with cute cartoons shoved in them aren't your thing, why not reach for something more fashionable. Jorg Koch's 032c - the intellectual fashion fan's bible - has partnered with their countrymen Birkenstock to create this sleek clog. Perfectly balanced between Dutch clog and Tsukiji market chic, this collab screams Berlin cool and even comes with a shearling lining to keep the feet warm.
◀ Shop this style: 032c White x Birkenstock Super Birki Clogs
The GOAT Rick Owens lends his visionary eye to create a sandal that's part monster truck and part shoe. Aptly named the 'Tractor' this sandal features a translucent lug sole that wouldn't look out of place on the wheel of some industrial machinery, especially when paired with smooth leather and tactical nylon webbing straps. Only for the most avant-garde of dads, the kind who enjoys reading Satre and nudist camps.
▶ Shop this style: Rick Owens Black Tractor Leather And Canvas Sandals
Family-run Spanish shoe brand Camper is churning out some of the most unique and creative shoes in the world of footwear. Their casual take on the sport sandal comes in a vivid multicolour that's perfect for summer. Worn by cool Bohemian dads obsessed with self-expression.
◀ Shop this style: Camper Match Sandals
Fun fur favourites Fendi have created the Bugatti Veyron of sandals. Part slide, part luxury trainer, this sneaker-sandal hybrid pairs sporty neoprene and straps with luxurious leather and an Air Max-like sole to create an aggressive silhouette that doesn't compromise in any area. The red colourway paired with subtle Fendi branding scream class too. Made for the cool rich dad who knows driving a Ferrari is for Top Gear hosts and show-offs.
▶ Shop this style: Fendi TPU Sandals
The all-white Fila Disruptor 2 has been a firm favourite for chunky sneaker aficionados everywhere. Now, they've been chopped and changed to create the perfect summer slide. The fresh white colourway is accented with strapping in Fila's signature red and blue. We foresee this being a firm festival favourite.
◀ Shop this style: Fila Disruptor Strappy Sandals
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