As summer winds down with August’s arrival, it’s time for you to enjoy what remains of this season’s capricious heat before fall sneaks in. Road trips are ideal when countering loaded schedules—a brief weekend getaway should satisfy your craving for last minute summer fun.
Summer staples often include heeled sandals, espadrilles and flimsy flip-flops, which, lovely in retrospect, are not sensible options when driving. While these footwear do not make sensible options for driving, it’s even more tempting to remove them and work the pedals barefoot—another imprudent driving method.
No worries: you don’t have to sacrifice style for safety and comfort. Moschino and Kartell collaborated to concoct a hybrid creation of glossy plastic ballet flats. Welded with Italian-quality craft and a clever interwoven technique, these footies have a look reminiscent of beach lounge chairs. The BowWow shoes can be found in standard solid shades of black, red and white, as well as five popping summery hues of periwinkle blue, forest green, yellow, geranium and peach. Each is crowned with a matching bow, save for a two-toned pair in black with a white bow. Constructed from 100 percent recyclable non-toxic thermoplastic technopolymer, you can feel a little less guilty while cruising around emptying your tank.
Nothing is worse than late afternoon stop-and-go traffic when you’re trying to get to your destination. You might be heading-off straight from a strenuous day at work in which case your exhausted feet have been cramped in formal footwear from nine to five. Swap those with a more comfortable pair for the drive, such as OKA b.’s reflexology-inspired collection. Each features an ergonomic insole coated in massage beads to boost relaxation. In-tune with summer-like trends, the line offers a variety of slides and thong styles from floral to jeweled. Another plus is that they’re slip-resistant and non-marking, allowing the long drive to be more easily managed. These charming touches make your commute all more flattering while tuning-out freeway honks.
Men are often limited in summer foot fashion and it doesn’t help that many steer clear from flip-flops for personal reasons. The best choice for those who are MSP (metrosexual phobic) are boat shoes. The shoes are multifunctional, stylish and masculine enough for riding around, walking on the beach, or chasing after the errant dog or child. Just as comfy as traditional “driving shoes,” boat shoes provide optimal sturdiness and grip. Paul Sperry, founder of Sperry Top-Sider, first invented these kicks in 1935 after witnessing his cocker spaniel effortlessly romp about on slippery snow. Noticing the dog’s paw pads riddled with cracks, Sperry simulated the markings on a piece of gum rubber to provide non-slip control on the soles of shoes and later patented this Razor-Siping method. The unit is available in diverse color combinations and materials in leather, suede and canvas—perfect for high temperatures.
Sebago manufactures another quality brand of boat shoes with a more experimental angle. In the 1970s, they introduced their particular brand of hand sewn, leather boat shoes called Docksides. Last summer Sebago collaborated with VANE New York City to create multicolored alternatives. A second 2009 project paired Sebago with Paris retailer Colette and Jack Spade to produce funky, limited edition shades. If you’re looking for a unique twist on classic boat shoes, check out the 2009 launch of ankle forms, dubbed Beacon and Lighthouse. Even if you’re stranded at base, you could save these for casual Friday. Very manly, and very cool.
Regardless of your agenda, these selections spruce up any waning summer day. All are sufficiently affordable so you can stock-up on a few labels. They’re versatile enough for daylight or nighttime use and a discreet addition to a beach bag, work satchel or car trunk.
PHOTO CREDIT: Moschino, Sebago
