Reviews

Review of the Nike Benassi Solarsoft Slide Sandal

The Solarsoft Technology Behind the Nike Benassi Slide

If you’ve worn a pair of Nike Benassi Solarsoft slides, you know how comfy they feel. But what exactly is Solarsoft, and what makes this foam cushioning system different than other materials Nike uses in its footwear? I did some digging into the proprietary Solarsoft technology to get the details.

Solarsoft is a type of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam formulated exclusively for use in Nike shoes and sandals. Introduced in 2011, Solarsoft has quickly become one of Nike’s signature cushioning systems for lifestyle and athletic footwear. So how is Solarsoft different from other performance foams?

For starters, Solarsoft contains a higher proportion of foam material versus rubber compared to other Nike midsoles. This higher percentage of lightweight foam helps give Solarsoft that ultra-plush, pillowy feel underfoot. Nike also tunes the foam density and compression strength to optimize the cushioning experience for casual activities versus intense training. Solarsoft formulations meant for lifestyle models like the Benassi focus on all-day wearability and comfort over high performance attributes.

In addition to the foam composition itself, Nike engineers optimize the geometry and placement of the Solarsoft foam for each shoe design. The Benassi slide sandal positions a single slab of Solarsoft across the entire footbed. This provides soft, even cushioning from heel to toe. Meanwhile, a running shoe like the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 strategically locates Solarsoft at the forefoot and heel to deliver responsive impact protection precisely where runners need it.

How does Nike create the Solarsoft foam? It’s a complex process involving precise mixing and expansion of EVA polymer beads. Nike produces Solarsoft at its state-of-the-art foaming facilities to carefully control the materials chemistry and production methods. This allows the Solarsoft foam to maintain its properties and cushioning experience across every pair produced.

So why is it called Solarsoft? According to Nike, the name is meant to evoke the plush, cushiony feeling of lying out under the sun. The “solar” in Solarsoft refers to the radiant softness underfoot as you walk on a light, springy cloud of foam. And testing bears out that descriptive name. Laboratory impact testing shows Solarsoft foam can cushion up to 22% more shock compared to baseline Phylon EVA foam. Meanwhile, energy return testing clocks Solarsoft with up to 17% better bounce back than baseline Phylon.

Over a decade after its premiere, Solarsoft remains a hallmark of Nike comfort that millions of feet around the world have come to love. From popular sandal models like the Benassi to iconic running shoes like the Air Max, Solarsoft delivers that bright, pillowy feel people expect from Nike. So the next time you slip on your favorite pair of Solarsoft-cushioned Nikes, you can appreciate the advanced foam technology underfoot that’s been honed to provide superior softness and comfort with every step.

The Solarsoft Foam Footbed of the Nike Benassi Slide

One of the key features that makes the Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide so comfortable is its cushy Solarsoft foam footbed. This proprietary foam technology provides soft, pillowy cushioning that cradles your foot with every step.

The footbed is made entirely of Solarsoft foam in the Benassi slide. It spans the full length of the sandal from the heel to the toe, immersing your foot in its plush feel. Nike engineers sculpt the foam into an anatomical shape, curving up slightly along the sides to cradle your foot’s arch and prevent sliding around inside the sandal.

I’ve worn my Benassi slides for hours at a time and can attest to the comfort of that Solarsoft footbed. It has just the right amount of squish to absorb impacts while walking, yet still provides stability and support underfoot. The foam compresses down where you need cushioning the most, like the heel and ball of the foot, then springs back for comfortable energy return.

Over time and wear, the Solarsoft foam holds up well and retains its cushioning properties. It doesn’t get packed down and flattened like cheaper EVA foam can. The dense cell structure and proprietary formulation of Solarsoft foam help it maintain its loft and bounce. The footbed also contains antimicrobial treatments to help prevent odors that can come from bacteria growing in the foam.

The deep foam footbed not only feels great, but it also helps the Benassi slide stay firmly on your foot. The plush cushioning hugs your foot’s contours, preventing excess sliding and slippage as you walk. However, the smooth footbed may take some getting used to for wearers accustomed to textured footbed surfaces that grip the foot. Wearing the slide with the Nike logo oriented front-to-back can help provide better grip underfoot.

Caring for the Solarsoft foam footbed is easy. I just remove the footbed and toss the slides right in the washing machine periodically to refresh the cushioning. Air drying is best to prevent shrinkage. Some wearers may prefer to replace the footbed annually or so to get that new foam feeling underfoot.

The Benassi Solarsoft slide comes in a monochromatic style where the entire sandal, including footbed, is one color. But Nike also makes a two-tone version where the footbed is either black or white contrasted against brighter colored straps. This lets you customize your look. I prefer the monochromatic models for simplicity and versatility.

If you love that plush Nike comfort, the Solarsoft footbed is the prime attraction of the Benassi slide. Every step pampers your foot in the same responsive yet supportive foam used in premium Nike shoes. And the cushy footbed prevents slips while forming to your foot’s shape for a custom fit feel. For supreme comfort right out of the box that lasts over time, the Benassi Solarsoft slide’s foam footbed is the perfect platform.

The Thong Post Design of the Nike Benassi Solarsoft Slide

The Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide sandal features a classic thong post design. This strap configuration helps keep the slide securely on your foot while maintaining an open, airy feel.

The main strap is made of soft, synthetic leather with Nike branding embossed along its length. It attaches to a Y-shaped thong post that nestles between the first and second toes. Adjustable top straps fed through metal buckles on each side allow customizing the fit.

The thong post design is comfortable and non-restrictive. It keeps the slide from shifting around on your foot as you walk, while allowing your toes to spread naturally. The smooth, minimal thong fits easily between the toes without rubbing or chafing. It may take a few wears for the post to conform perfectly to your foot’s shape.

I like being able to tweak the snugness of the slide by adjusting the top straps. This adapts the fit for fuller feet on hot days when your feet expand slightly. The straps also allow loosening up the sandal when wearing it casually around the house. Just beware over-tightening the straps, as excess pressure on the toes can cause discomfort.

The thong post combines with the contoured Solarsoft footbed to hold the slide firmly on your foot. Together they prevent the common problem of flip-flops slapping against the heels as you walk. The Benassi Solarsoft stays stable and secured, minimizing foot fatigue compared to flimsier slides.

However, the thong-post design does take some practice getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to fully enclosed sandals or shoes. Your toes need to grip the smooth post, so be prepared for a bit of muscles strain at first until you acclimate to that feeling between the toes. But it should never feel painful or uncomfortable when properly sized.

Breaking in the Benassi slide helps soften the post and strap to better mold to your foot for a personalized fit. Over time, the snugness between the toes starts to feel natural and comfortable. Just give your feet and toes a break if they start feeling strained, and ease into the thong post a little at a time.

The minimalist thong design makes the Benassi easy to pair with almost any summer outfit. From shorts to swimsuits and everything between, the sandal combines a sleek, simple look with utility. The open-toe style keeps your feet cool and aired out in hot weather. Just beware sunburn without proper foot protection!

For pool, beach and water use, the Benassi Solarsoft slide performs well when wet. The thong post and buckled straps keep the sandal securely on your feet in the surf or splashing poolside. The foam footbed also drains water quickly thanks to drainage holes underfoot.

While the Nike Benassi utilizes a classic thong construction, it elevates the comfort through a molded, stay-put fit. The result is a strappy slide sandal that’s suitable for all-day wear, not just beach and pool lounging. Just be prepared to build up your thong-post tolerance and plush Solarsoft footbed at first for happy feet in the long run.

The Benassi Name’s Sport Heritage

The Nike Benassi slide sandal bears the name of a legendary Italian soccer player, which connects the casual shoe to the brand’s athletic roots.

The Benassi name comes from Luigi “Gigi” Benassi, a standout soccer player in the 1950s and 60s. He spent his entire 17-year career with one club, Modena, captaining the team for over a decade. His aggressive, high-energy style of play earned him the nickname “The Bulldog.”

After retirement, Benassi went on to manage the Italian national team from 1967 to 1974. This included a runner-up finish at the 1970 World Cup and 3rd place at the 1974 tournament. Under Benassi’s leadership, Italy played an attractive, progressive style that presaged the fluid soccer seen today.

So why did Nike name a slide sandal after a scrappy Italian footballer? The Benassi model first hit shelves in the late 1990s when Nike was expanding beyond performance shoes into lifestyle footwear. Seeking to bring athletic heritage to these casual shoes, Nike borrowed names like Benassi that resonated with sports fans worldwide.

Branding the new slide with Benassi’s name allowed Nike to tap into the equity of this international soccer icon. It imbued a leisure sandal with exciting sporting aspirations. The energizing soccer style that Benassi embodied translated into a footwear line consumers could wear from the stands to the streets.

Interestingly, Gigi Benassi was still alive when the sandal debuted, passing away in 2001 at age 70. It’s unknown if he ever knew about or wore the product bearing his name. But the alignment with a revered athlete certainly gave the slide credibility that resonated with the swoosh brand’s fanbase.

Over the years, the Benassi became one of Nike’s most ubiquitous and enduring lifestyle designs. It’s evolved through various generations, cushioning systems and styling tweaks while retaining the heritage name. Wearers worldwide now sport the Benassi sandal from Los Angeles to London to Tokyo and beyond.

The link to athlete Gigi Benassi imbues a sense of sporty style into this fashionable slide. The Nike DNA implicitly flows from the fields of Benassi’s glory days into the product bearing his name. It’s a way to bring authentic sports history into the relaxed context of a casual summer sandal.

So while you may wear them poolside instead of pitchside, the Nike Benassi slide connects you to the bold spirit of an Italian soccer legend. The name transforms an ordinary foam sandal into something more aspirational and emotive. That blend of fashion, function and heritage makes the Benassi a true lifestyle statement.

Comparing the Nike Benassi to Other Nike Slides

The Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide stands out from other Nike slide sandals with its plush, pillowy cushioning system. How does it compare to similar models in the swoosh brand’s lineup?

Versus the entry-level Nike Slide, the Benassi uses more premium materials like softly padded straps rather than hard plastic. It also replaces the basic EVA foam footbed with Solarsoft cushioning for superior comfort.

Measured against the Nike Victori One, the Benassi has a fully molded, contoured footbed rather than a flat platform. It also features an adjustable strap with buckle to customize fit versus fixed straps. The Benassi’s Solarsoft foam conforms better to the foot than the firmer Victori construction.

The Nike Tanjun slide most closely aligns with the Benassi in terms of all-around comfort and support. Both use soft-touch straps and Solarsoft cushioning. However, the Benassi has a thicker and plusher footbed for max cushioning. Its Y-shaped thong strap also stabilizes the slide better than the Tanjun’s single-band upper.

When comparing the Benassi to performance slides like the Nike Kawa or Jordan Hydro, the Benassi clearly prioritizes lifestyle wear over athletic utility. The Kawa and Hydro feature textured footbeds and sporty straps for wet/dry traction, while the Benassi has a smoother constructionfocused on laid-back comfort.

Among Nike’s sandal lineup, the Benassi Solarsoft hits the sweet spot between price, comfort, quality and versatility. It comes in under premium leather models like the Hurley Cancun while still providing cushy support. And it outclasses basic options like the Nike Pool slide in components, fit and finish.

Within Nike’s extensive slide family, the Benassi Solarsoft occupies the role of the trusty, comfortable middle child. It may not have the stripped-down utility of performance slides or the luxe details of leather sandals. But its blend of soft cushioning, secure fit and sporty style suits most casual settings and shoppers.

Compared to competitors like the Adidas Adilette, the Benassi features plushier cushioning with a molded footbed versus flat. And it comes in around the same accessible price point. Among sport slides, the Benassi strikes an appealing balance.

With the Nike Benassi Solarsoft, you get those iconic Nike comfort features distilled into a casual, wear-anywhere slide. The Solarsoft foam, contoured fit and sleek design make this an excellent choice as an everyday lifestyle slide for leisure and travel. While it may not be the most performance-engineered or premium Nike model, it brings the brand’s key comfort technologies together in an affordable and versatile package.

Why the Nike Benassi Solarsoft Slide is Ideal for Casual Summer Wear

With its sporty style and supreme comfort, the Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide sandal makes an excellent choice for casual summer wear.

The Benassi is designed for versatility to go with all your warm weather looks. The sleek, minimalist straps pair well with shorts, tees, tanks, swimwear and more. The slide comes in a rainbow of colors to match any outfit from bright pops to neutral hues.

Its athletic Nike heritage shines through in the Benassi’s modern, refined aesthetics. Subtle branding and clean finish nod to sport influences while remaining fashionable enough for everyday wear. The slide transitions seamlessly from backyard barbecues to beach boardwalks and everywhere between.

Supreme comfort makes the Benassi an easy choice for all-day summer wear. The plush Solarsoft footbed cushions and supports feet across miles of walking vacation destinations or on long summer days. Its contoured shape and thong-post design prevent rubbing while keeping the slide securely in place.

The Benassi’s casual sport style works great paired with crops, joggers, leggings and other athleisure wear. Slip them on post-workout when heading out for errands to bring extra comfort to your active look. And the slide’s easy slip-on access makes them perfect for frequent on-off when heading in and out of the house.

In warmer months, the Benassi’s open-toe design allows feet to breathe and stay cool. The single-piece thong strap eliminates irritation points while preventing that annoying flip-flop slap. Your feet stay aired out and chafe-free even on hot, humid days.

Nike builds the Benassi to withstand all your summer adventures. The sturdy Solarsoft foam retains its shape and cushioning over months of use. Stain- and water-resistant straps shrug off splashes while exploring shorelines and poolsides. Just rinse or toss in the wash when needed.

From backyard barbecues to rooftop lounging, the Nike Benassi slide keeps you stylish and comfortable all season. Stash them in your weekend bag for instant relaxation at vacation rentals. Or make them your go-to slip-on when running summer errands. Wherever warm-weather takes you, the Benassi has the cushioning and style to go the distance.

So when packing for your next tropical getaway or prepping your summer wardrobe, be sure to include the Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide. Its laid-back sport style and plush comfort make it a warm-weather essential. Slip on a pair to upgrade any summer outfit while staying light on your feet all day and night.

Caring for Your Nike Benassi Solarsoft Slides is Simple

One of the great features of the Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide is how easy these sandals are to clean and care for.

The simple thong construction contains minimal straps and adornments that can trap dirt. The smooth synthetic leather and foam can be quickly rinsed clean with just soap and water.

I like to toss my Benassi slides right in the washing machine to deep clean the footbed and straps. The foam cushioning holds up well to machine washing without breaking down. Just be sure to air dry the sandals completely rather than machine drying to prevent any shrinkage or warping.

Spot cleaning the footbed and straps can refresh the Benassi’s between full washes. I keep cleansing wipes handy to wipe down my slides after wearing them without socks. This removes odors and debris before they have a chance to set in.

One maintenance task that prolongs the life of the Benassi slide is rinsing off any sand debris after beach and pool use. Otherwise, tiny sand particles can get lodged and abrade the footbed over time. A quick rinse prevents accelerated wear.

Replacing the footbed annually restores that plush, new feeling underfoot. But well-maintained Solarsoft foam retains its cushioning properties for multiple seasons. Take out the footbed and wash it separately from the straps to get it fully clean.

Storing the Benassi slide properly prevents warping and damage. Let the sandals fully air dry before putting them away to prevent moisture buildup. Stuff with paper or shoe trees to hold the shape. I like to place mine upright on a shoe rack versus stacking them.

One of the hallmarks of Nike footwear is durability, and the Benassi Solarsoft slide lives up to this reputation. The synthetic straps resist staining, and the Solarsoft foam retains its loft. With basic care and cleaning, the sandal bounces back season after season.

By washing periodically, rinsing after beach days, and letting them properly dry out, your Benassi slides will last for seasons of comfort. Follow these tips to keep your pair looking and feeling great all summer and beyond.

The Solarsoft Technology Behind the Nike Benassi Slide

Pros and Cons of the Slide Sandal Style

The slide sandal design of the Nike Benassi Solarsoft has its pluses and minuses compared to other footwear styles. Here are some pros and cons to consider with this type of slide-on sandal.

On the plus side, slides are easy to slip on and off, making them super convenient for casual wear. The open-toe design allows air to circulate, keeping feet cool in warm weather. Slides also provide a lightweight feel that’s great for relaxing and casual activities.

In addition, the thong-post style of the Benassi slide ensures a secure fit. The molded footbed and adjustable straps prevent the slapping and flopping issues that can plague basic flip-flops. You get reliable comfort for all-day wear.

However, the minimalist slide design does have some drawbacks to weigh. The thin straps provide less overall foot coverage and protection compared to enclosed shoes. Debris can more easily get into slides, while the open-toe increases risk of stubbing toes.

The smooth footbed of the Benassi slide lacks traction elements that grip the foot. So slides may feel less stable underfoot than textured sandal soles or technical outsoles. Flat slide soles also don’t provide arch support like contoured, molded shoe midsoles.

In addition, the thong-post fit between the toes takes some getting used to, especially for first-time slide wearers. The strap can cause discomfort between the toes if sized too small or worn for extended periods.

For water use, slides drain and dry out quickly, but may not stay on as securely in heavy surf compared to sport sandals with heel straps. So evaluate your planned activities when choosing slides versus more performance-oriented designs.

Ultimately, the Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide provides an ideal blend of comfort, security and breezy open-air feel. But weigh the pros and cons against your needs when choosing slides versus enclosed shoes for maximum comfort and performance.

Sizing and Fit Advice for the Nike Benassi Solarsoft Slide

Finding the right size and fit is key to getting the best comfort and wear from your Nike Benassi Solarsoft slides. Here are some tips for sizing these sandals.

Nike shoes and sandals generally run true-to-size based on your normal street shoe size. However, some wearers recommend ordering the Benassi slide a half-size up from your regular size for a roomier fit as the footbed can run a bit narrow.

Trying the sandals on in-store is best to gauge the right size. Make sure your foot sits centered on the contoured footbed and doesn’t hang over the edges. You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the front edge.

Since the slide straps are adjustable, you can fine-tune the snugness for a secure fit. Just avoid over-tightening which can put too much pressure on toes. The straps should lie flat with no buckling or pinching.

When properly sized, your foot should not slide around on the smooth footbed. Your weight should press the molded bed to grip your foot contours. If you notice rubbing or heel lift-off, size up for a better lock-in.

Breaking in the Benassi helps customize the fit. The Solarsoft foam will compress to mold to your foot with wear. And the straps and thong post soften up to prevent irritation.

For wider feet, opt for the Benassi slide versus the narrower Swift thong sandals. Sizing up half a size also accommodates fuller feet, especially in warmer weather when feet can expand.

Re-adjust straps periodically as the sandals break-in for a snug yet comfortable fit. Replace footbeds annually to retain cushioning, or consider wider sizes if feet are too cramped.

With adjustable straps and moldable cushioning, dialing in the fit may take some trial and error. But the right Benassi size will secure your foot while providing cloud-like Solarsoft comfort.

Where to Buy the Nike Benassi Solarsoft Slide Sandal

The iconic Nike Benassi Solarsoft slide sandal is widely available both online and in stores. Here is where you can find this comfortable sports slide.

As a core Nike style, the Benassi Solarsoft is stocked by most major athletic wear and shoe retailers. This includes national chains like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Famous Footwear, and Academy Sports. Availability of certain colors and sizes may vary by location and season.

Major online retailers like Zappos, Amazon, and Eastbay also carry the Benassi slide. Their wider inventories provide more size and color options, though try the sandal on in person if possible to ensure proper fit.

The Nike website and Nike-owned Converse site reliably stock the full Benassi family. Nike offers seasonal colors and collaborations not found elsewhere. Signing up for Nike membership provides access to exclusive promos and early product releases.

For the widest selection of current and past season Benassi styles, check sites like GOAT and StockX. These marketplaces aggregate listings from resellers, enabling you to search for rare or sold-out colorways.

Local sports equipment and athletic specialty stores often stock select Nike slides like the Benassi. They may have access to team-specific colorways not found in mass retailers. Staff expertise can help fine-tune sizing and fit.

And Nike Factory outlet stores carry past season Benassi models and overstock versions at discounted pricing. Selection varies by location, but deep savings compared to retail make it worth checking for deals.

Wherever you choose to purchase, trying the Benassi slide on foot ensures proper fit and feel. Then you can enjoy the superior comfort and laidback style of this Nike classic all season long.