Saltwater sandals are fast becoming a popular type of footwear. They are sold primarily in the southern and western markets of the United States. These sandals are made from specially treated natural leather that is evidenced by its “interlocking” strap and adjustable buckle straps around the ankle.
The birth of saltwater sandals was in the early 1940s and is presented as a good alternative to the traditional leather sandals that children wear. This is due to a shortage of leather during WWII. They solved this shortage by making children’s sandals out of scrap leather from leather boot factories. Although originally conceptualized and manufactured by Hoy Shoe Company in St. Louis, Missouri, there are also saltwater sandals made in China.
The Hoy Shoe Company
The original and classic designs of Hoy Shoe Company’s saltwater sandals are double stitched and molded from vulcanized rubber. These are featured with adjustable straps for narrow to wide adjustments, and to fit infant to twentieth-century sizes.
The trending market
For more than 60 years, it has remained a summer accessory in children’s footwear. The latest design is Hoy Shoe Company’s Sun-San saltwater sandals for women. New York Magazine fashion editor Sarah Bernard even made a comment on November 2, 2007 about it. He criticized the saltwater sandals as an “emerging ugly shoe trend for 2008” while comparing them to Ugg boots and Crocs.
Amid criticism, it remains one of the extremely popular modern sandals made from highly durable materials. They do not wear out or tear easily and have proven themselves in terms of quality. It is a best seller with parents. In fact, they are no longer limited to markets in the southern and western US They are now supplied globally due to high customer demands.
The sandals are not only composed of natural leather, but their buckles are made of stainless metal and brass material. They are sold in various colors such as white, navy blue, brown, orange and pink, red, yellow, fuchsia, black and green.
The latest addition to this genre is the new Shark 11 saltwater sandal in Crazy Horse Color. Its design is like that of a fisherman made of durable cowhide. It has a molded EVA sole with long-lasting thread action through the bottom of the sandal, as well as a cushion in the insole. It has an extra fabric and a comfortable molded strap on the back to reduce sweating and unpleasant odors. It has sizes for tweens, toddlers, and babies.
Infant sizes are 3 and up, depending on build; and up to size 13 for tweens. For adults, women would range from size 5 and up.
These are some of the most popular saltwater sandals for children on the market:
Fuchsia saltwater sandals for women
This salt water sandal is ideal to wear on outings to the beach and pool. It has a durable brass buckle and an adjustable strap. It has interlocking straps that easily adjust to the foot. The price of this saltwater sandal is $ 34.95.
Unisex tan saltwater sandals
This saltwater sandal is made of original brown leather. It is best for summer and beach activities. It has a brass buckle that allows easy adjustment of the straps. Its interlocking straps fit comfortably on the foot. They have vulcanized rubber soles and double stitching to ensure long-lasting quality. It is good for both dry and wet conditions because it is coated with water resistant sealants. The price of this saltwater sandal is $ 24.95.
Black saltwater sandals for women
This saltwater sandal is made of black leather and has 1 buckle ankle strap. The price of this saltwater sandal is $ 15.99.
Tips on Saltwater Sandals
When wearing a new pair of saltwater sandals, it is best to loosen them, particularly with the straps. You can do this by placing your thumbs inside their straps and pulling them out to the sides. In this way, the interlocking leather straps are stretched. After this, hold your sandal in your palms and begin to squeeze the sides together, cupping the inner section of the sandal. In this way, the straps are flexed and pre-stretched.
Saltwater sandals only look too tight when new. You may need a short “adjustment” period. After a while, it will adapt to your foot.