Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1521285
"Consumers are demanding comfort, functionality, and versatility in all footwear categories. Specifically, in active sandals, they want something they can wear to multiple events, so having silhouettes that can accommodate multiple purposes is key. Sandals that are too tight or pinch the feet but 'look cute' aren't performing as well as sandals that truly fit, offer adjustability and other comfort elements." – Sydney Simas, VP, Simco Imported Shoes "e features that customers are looking for are great arch support, tasteful adjustability, lightweight and ideally, slip resistance. We are so excited to launch our new Alegria Fit sandals for the Spring/ Summer 2025 season. We expect their functionality to hit all the marks that this customer is looking for in an athletic sandal." – Megan Gold, design director, Alegria "e active sandal category is evolving in response to consumer demands for comfort, versatility, sustainability and performance. Cushioning, arch support and breathability are the top priorities. Consumers also want sandals that can transition from outdoor activities to everyday wear, and are eco-friendly with recycled materials. In performance, they want technology and innovation designed to de-stress the foot." – Logan Bird, VP of omni-channel sales, Mephisto "ere is a big opportunity to produce quality, well-made active outdoor sandals. Very little has changed in the category. Consumers want it all – something with a proper footbed with support and comfort, water-friendly, traction and easy to clean. ey would like it to last forever and look good. ey want a proper fit and the adjustability to customize that fit to their unique needs. en, of course, new colors, excitement, fun fashion – a certain cool factor – in their active sandals." – Michael Walker, head of marketing and ecommerce, täōs "Active sandals appeal to today's discerning consumer meeting the desire for comfort, versatility and style. No longer just for outdoor function, active sandals (when designed well) can take you almost everywhere. With a greater demand for comfort and versatility this is a category that is positioned for continued year over year growth." – Kelly Dumpson, head of sales - wholesale, San Antonio Shoemakers "We're trying to provide sandals that are suitable for everyday wear, but have the same support and benefits of a recovery- specific sandal. We're seeing a shi from what was once 'uncool' to now being cool. icker is in, and consumers are searching for comfort before fashion in many ways. ick and comfy go hand in hand, and what we offer is something we can meet customers in the middle with – a perfect blend of comfort, support and style." – Daniel Jones, founder, Archies Footwear "Sandals that fall into a popular retail area of say $129.95 to $159.95 will be winners at retail with the looming recession being discussed, along with price increases across the board affecting the average American. Consumers and retailers have reached the point where they now feeling gouged! Also, while most companies are using Euro sizing, Hälsa remains in U.S. sizes and widths, including half sizes, along with stocking medium and wide-widths." – Phil Coward, account sales representative, Hälsa 20 • Footwear Insight ~ May/June 2024 footwearinsight.com What's your barometer on the active sandal category today? Tell us what trends you are seeing and how brands are adding value. "Active sandals continue to be spotted in unconventional environments due to performance features transcending initial product expectations. With innovation for new materials and free expression on the rise, brands have become more ambitious experimenting with combinations of materials, colors, prints, scales and embellishments. Product stories have become a big factor when it comes to connecting with consumers, adding relevance, value, and importance to the brand." – Jennifer Sokso, director of marketing, Propét SANDALS