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Review: Foot-Supporting Sandals From Superfeet

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[leadin]Big promises come with a plush new sandal offering from insole-maker Superfeet. We slipped them on for a first-look review.[/leadin]

superfeet sandal

At $60, the flip-flops are sold as a superior open-toe option, absorbing shock, supporting the arch, potentially relieving plantar fasciitis, and even “great for body alignment,” as the brand puts it.

Superfeet is a leader in the insole category, with decades of experience making products that interface with the bottom of bare feet. Sandals seem like a natural brand extension, and this spring the company launches a line for women and men.

Review: Superfeet Sandals

I tested Superfeet’s Outside Men’s Bison model, which come with a deep heel cup, synthetic leather straps, as well as the aforementioned bio-mechanical claims.

superfeet sandals review

I’m not sure about “body alignment,” but if that term is a stand-in for foot support that translates to comfortable ankles, knees, and above, Superfeet gets a pass. These sandals exude a firm, confident fit the moment you step in.

The footbed is a firm foam textured with tiny dimples and scored with concentric lines. A half-inch depression cradles the heel, and the sandals contour subtly with your arch before flattening at the toes.

superfeet sandals straps

A thick midsole cushions as you walk. The straps are lined with neoprene for comfort against the skin and a secure fit — the sandals stayed on my feet while walking on a steep trail.

The outsole is touted as “slip-resistant,” though there is minimal tread underfoot. I had no issues with grip on dirt, stone stairs, or around water.

superfeet sandals sole

Casual, Supportive Sandals

Overall, Superfeet accomplishes a design that both looks nice and feels great. I have hiked for a couple miles at a stretch, including on dirt trails, pavement, and sand.

Don’t expect anything beyond good-fitting flip-flops, however. These will not stay on in a river. The design is made for casual walks and everyday wear.

sandal strap

If you run, bike, or race in endurance events, the company markets the sandals as a post-activity footwear option and an “excellent way to get your tired feet some relief while maintaining good support underfoot.”

A side note: Another insole maker, the Canadian brand Sole, introduced similar contoured sandals a few years ago. Today, Sole’s slip-on footwear lacks the Y-yoke and are a different design that costs $70.

Superfeet Sandals, New For 2016

The new line is not the first go at the category for Superfeet. The company released sandals a few years ago that were more structured and “orthotic-y,” according to a company representative. “They either fit you perfectly or not at all,” she said.

For the new sandals, Superfeet worked with a design firm in Portland, Ore., called Nine Concept Creation, which has contracted with other major outdoors footwear brands.

The result is a sandal the has a contoured, supportive footbed that is not overbearing. The forefoot is flexible and molds to the terrain as you walk.

wearing-superfeet-sandal

In the end, the Superfeet sandals delivered on most of their touted claims, though at a high price. You can purchase multiple pairs of less expensive flip-flops for $60, forgoing support and some style.

But as go-to summertime kicks, the Superfeet sandals are a solid choice. They are versatile, easy to wear, and good-looking enough to pass in any social scenario where bare toes are allowed.

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