Footwear Insight

"Comfort! Consumers look for sandals that are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Especially for summer outings and travel. Features such as generously cushioned footbeds, adjustable straps, flexible outsoles, and so, high-quality materials. Of course, style plays a major role as well. We want to feel good and look good!" - Andrew Agati, director of merchandising, Ara "Customers expect support and comfort, as much as the look and styling of the product. We spend so much time standing and walking on hard surfaces, that the technology built into the footbed is very important. Our orthotic support built into every pair, ensures we deliver the 'WOW' underfoot, while also including our Personalized Fitting Kit. Whether fitting narrow through extra wide feet, we offer a solution without compromising style." - Craig Truscott, CEO, Revere "I feel that the most important attributes consumers are looking for today are fashion, function, wearability and value. Value is most important, but it is not about the price. It is about fitting me/my lifestyle, being able to wear the shoe with multiple outfits in multiple settings for many years and not needing to change shoes to meet the needs of a busy lifestyle." – Kelly Dumpson, Head of Sales – Wholesale, San Antonio Shoemakers (SAS) "People are looking for versatility in their sandals. ey want comfort features incorporated with fashion. ey can be active and elegant in their sandal. e Filippa encompasses the consumer's desire for versatility." - Rich Rask, president, Rieker Shoe Corp. (Remonte) "Today's consumers are looking for footwear that is versatile enough to fit their everyday needs each season, whether that means exploring the outdoors or simply running errands. At Kamik, we have made it our sole purpose to leverage some of the brand's timeless classics while also introducing newness in key areas like the sandals category." – Gillian Meek, CEO, Kamik "We incorporated some of the top trends for SS24 sandals that are: 1. Athleisure, which takes the sneaker trend into hot weather. 2. Y2K silhouettes, like kitten heels, square toes, and chunky platforms revived as statement pieces. 3. Boho Chic, with 'good for you' natural elements like cork and natural shaped toe shapes." - Megan Gold, design director, Alegria "Comfort is a crucial factor when it comes to sandals. People want footwear that feels comfortable and supportive for extended periods of wear. is includes considerations for cushioning, arch support, and a good fit. Style, versatility and affordability are also highly valued, so finding a balance between price and quality is oen important to consumers. For 2023, we redesigned our sandal styles in response to customer feedback, adjusting the profile and strap design." – Mindy Moreland, marketing manager, Foundation Wellness (PowerStep) "Consumers are looking for more fashionable comfortable sandals with contoured footbeds providing arch and heel support. e patented Xelero Technology helps make walking easier and has been shown to reduce pain and discomfort under the foot." – Dan Werremeyer, president, Instride Shoes (Xelero) "Customers are looking for special pieces that not only complement their current wardrobe, but have a timeless element of style—such as the eternally classic wedge. Versatility is really key to this, so carefully chosen colors and quality finishes ensure that a pair can be worn with a range of looks. Customers also want to know that a new purchase is an investment that they'll return to time and again, without having to sacrifice their comfort. With our technology in every footbed, our shoes help women get the most out of every moment." - Gabrielle Thompson, director of footwear, FRANKIE4 "I find the consumer has been looking at higher wedges and dressier looks since coming back from the pandemic. She's also liking more color in her wardrobe. e Swena blends the need to look and feel great in jeans or a nice dress." – Rusty Hall, president, Mephisto USA "With travel up over the last few years, consumers want shoes that are lightweight, comfortable and where no break-in is necessary. e Luna is truly a pillow for your feet." - David Astobiza, owner, Biza "Between the sneakers/athletics and working from home, many consumers that had previously accepted foot pain as part of fashion are now re-thinking their old ways. As people are going out to parties, restaurants and traveling more; they are looking for shoes they can dress up or down and invest in. We are especially seeing a large amount of back-to-office and travel requests. Although our basics are still selling like crazy, we have seen a li in sandals that have a unique and special element." - Ayelet Lax Levy, president of US Operations, Naot SANDALS TRENDING UP 28 • Footwear Insight ~ May/June 2023 footwearinsight.com What are customers looking for today in a sandal and how does what your brand is offering stand out?

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