What Are Lacrosse Sandals and Why Are They So Popular?
Lacrosse sandals have become an iconic summer footwear choice, especially among college students and young adults. But what exactly are lacrosse sandals? As the name implies, these sandals were originally designed for the sport of lacrosse. The open-toed, slip-on style provided flexibility and breathability on the field. However, it didn’t take long for lacrosse players to start wearing their field sandals off the turf as well.
The comfort and relaxed vibe of lacrosse sandals caught on quickly across college campuses. Brands like Rainbow Sandals, Reef, and Teva took notice and began making their own versions for wider release. The thong-style, strappy uppers and cushioned footbeds felt laidback and carefree. And the durable rubber outsoles could stand up to heavy use by active students. The lightweight EVA or rubbery materials dried quickly too, making them perfect for traipsing through locker rooms or campus quads after rain showers.
But why have lacrosse sandals stood the test of time when so many footwear fads fade fast?
First, the nostalgic appeal and old-school cool vibe taps into timeless summer fun. The iconic strapped sandal design hearkens back to a simpler time of beach vacations and warm weather freedom. Secondly, the brands have honed the comfort factor, molding footbeds anatomically and choosing supple materials that don’t rub or chafe. The shock absorption keeps feet feeling fresh all day too. Third, customers love expressing themselves through the rainbow of colors and prints now available. You can find lacrosse sandals in solids, camo, stripes, florals and more. Finally, the affordable price point around $40 or less makes them an easy impulse buy each spring.
Lacrosse sandals check all the boxes – comfort, personality, value and nostalgia. That winning combo cements their popularity year after year, even as other sandal styles fade in and out of fashion. For the quintessential carefree summer sandal, lacrosse styles can’t be beat!
Lacrosse Sandals Styles, Materials, and Colors – Which to Choose?
When shopping for lacrosse sandals, you’ll find there are so many options to choose from. With different styles, materials, and a rainbow of colors, it can be tricky to select the right pair. Here’s an overview of the key characteristics to help you decide:
Styles: Lacrosse sandals come in a few main design varieties. The classic thong style with the “V” shaped strap between the toes is the most iconic and popular. They may have additional straps across the ankles and/or heels for extra support. Slide sandals are another easy-on option, with a single thick strap across the top of the foot. You can also find lace-up designs and sandals with full coverage on top but open toes.
Materials: The straps may be made from leather, synthetic leather, or woven materials. Leather is softest but requires more breaking in. The soles are typically rubber or EVA foam. EVA is ultra lightweight but less durable over time. Rubber offers good cushioning and traction, with excellent longevity.
Colors: From solids like black, brown and tan to rainbow brights and bold prints, the color options are endless. Navy, olive, grey and white are versatile neutral shades. Pastels like mint, lavender and blush add spring flair. Neon hues like lime green or hot pink make a statement. And tropical prints or camo patterns incorporate some fun patterns.
The right lacrosse sandals for you depends on your personal style, sizing needs, and how much support you require. If you want a classic laidback look that goes with everything, a simple thong style in a neutral color is best. Seek out real leather if you require superior comfort that molds perfectly to your feet. Opt for a sporty slide, lace-up or ankle strap pair if you need extra security for active use. And let your personality shine through with metallic, neon or patterned pairs that show off your unique flair. With so many types of lacrosse sandals available today, you can easily find the ideal pair to match your wardrobe and complement your summer vibe.
Finding Genuine Lacrosse Sandals at the Best Price
Lacrosse sandals have become so popular that fake knockoff versions have flooded the market. So how can you identify authentic lacrosse sandals and get the best deals?
Buy directly from the brand’s website or authorized retailers. Rainbow, Teva, Reef and other major brands only sell through their own ecommerce sites and verified third party sellers. Beware of prices that seem too good to be true on auction sites or unfamiliar stores.
Examine product photos closely. Authentic lacrosse sandals have a distinctive “V” shaped strap between the toes on thong styles. The brand name should be molded into the rubber sole. Build quality and materials should look top notch, not flimsy.
Read product descriptions carefully. Fake sandal listings may omit key details like materials used. Brands like Rainbow pride themselves on premium leather uppers. Imitation leather is a red flag for knockoffs.
Check customer images and reviews. If the sandal color looks off in actual user photos, they may be counterfeit. Complaints about peeling, cracked soles or loose straps indicate poor quality fakes.
Inspect for the official logo. It should be present on the side of the sole and engraved on any metal hardware or buckles. If the logo is missing, misshapen or just printed on, they aren’t the real deal.
Buy in-demand colors and prints. Counterfeiters focus on churning out popular styles like classic brown and black or rainbow colors. Avoid unfamiliar colorways which are more likely to be fake.
Time sales and clearance events. Major lacrosse sandal brands offer sales around holidays and clearance for last season’s colors. Sign up for email and get coupon codes to maximize savings on authentic styles.
With some savvy shopping skills, you can score genuine, quality lacrosse sandals at unbeatable prices. Stick to trusted retailers, examine photos, read descriptions, check reviews and inspect logo details. Focus on classic colors in high demand, and pounce on sales and coupons. Follow these tips and you’ll land the perfect pair of authentic lacrosse sandals without breaking the bank.
Identifying Authentic vs. Fake Lacrosse Sandals
Lacrosse sandals have exploded in popularity, which unfortunately has led to a flood of convincing knockoffs. How can you discern authentic lacrosse sandals from fake counterparts? Here are some telltale signs to examine:
Leather quality – Authentic leather lacrosse sandals use high-grade leather that looks and feels supple, with visible vein patterns. Fakes use cheap leather that appears overly shiny or feels rigid and plasticky.
Stitching – On real lacrosse sandals, the stitching connecting the straps is tight, neat and consistent. Fakes tend to have uneven, loose stitching that could easily come undone.
Hardware – Metal rivets, buckles and ornamentation on genuine lacrosse sandals have a polished, attractive finish. Fake hardware looks and feels cheap, with rough edges and flaws.
Comfort – Due to precision anatomical footbeds and quality materials, authentic lacrosse sandals feel broken-in and comfy instantly. Fakes typically have little or no arch or metatarsal support, causing discomfort.
Shape – With meticulous attention to detail, real lacrosse sandals have straps and soles formed perfectly to match the natural contours of the foot. Fakes are often misshapen with poor fitting straps.
Weight – Top brands use specialized lightweight materials that make authentic lacrosse sandals feel almost featherlight. Counterfeits tend to feel noticeably clunky and heavy.
Labels – Verified real lacrosse sandals will have clear logo stamps on the straps and sole. Fakes often have blurry logos, misspellings or no labels at all.
Soles – Genuine lacrosse sandals use durable rubber or EVA soles that show no signs of quality flaws. Fakes have telltale cracks, bubbles, gaps and misaligned layers.
By carefully inspecting for these differences, you can avoid getting duped by fake lacrosse sandals. Trust your senses and be wary if leather seems plasticky, stitching is irregular, hardware is rough, comfort is lacking, shape is off, weight is substantial, logos are blurry or soles have flaws. With an eye for detail, you can spot the signs of counterfeit sandals.
UNC Sandals for Showing Your School Spirit
University of North Carolina Tar Heels fans bleed Carolina blue. When summer rolls around, UNC sandals offer the perfect way to showcase your school pride while staying cool and comfy.
Classic thong sandals get transformed into stylish UNC-themed footwear with the addition of the iconic Carolina blue hue and Tar Heel logos. Major brands like Nike, Rainbow and Reef offer their signature lacrosse and strappy sport sandal styles emblazoned with UNC colors and emblems.
Guys can rock Carolina blue Rainbow flip flops or Nike slides with the interlocking NC logo. Girls can choose between UNC-themed thong sandals or fashionable gladiator-style strapped sandals from brands like Teva and Chaco. With the array of styles now available, UNC fans of all ages can display their Tar Heel pride in laidback summer comfort.
In addition to school colors and mascots, UNC sandals may feature notable symbols that alumni and students love. The Carolina Way banner, Ram’s Head logo, Argyle pattern, and Dean Dome imagery let Heels fans nod to campus icons. Signature slogans like Go Heels! and Tar Heel Born, Tar Heel Bred are UNC must-haves.
When heading to campus for class reunions, alumni events, or family weekend, UNC sandals make the perfect footwear choice. They’ll also be envied on game days for pre-parties or post-game celebrations. And any summer trip or vacation is instantly more stylish with these sporty sandals in your travel bag.
With the ability to choose from an endless array of styles, prints and colors, UNC sandals are a fun way to showcase your Tar Heel pride all summer long. Whether cheering on the Heels or just soaking up the sunshine, do it in fashion while giving a nod to your UNC roots.
Nike Slides and UNC Slides for Casual Style
Slide sandals from brands like Nike and UNC offer a comfortable, casual summer style for guys and girls alike. With sporty designs featuring university logos, these sandals are perfect for laidback warm-weather wear.
Made famous by sports stars and hip hop icons, the slide sandal’s thick strap across the top of the foot provides a secure feel while the open toe keeps feet cool. The contoured, cushy foam footbed offers arch support you can rely on all day long. A textured rubber outsole supplies needed traction on wet surfaces.
Nike offers their popular Benassi slide in school colors and emblem-adorned styles for major universities and pro sports teams. The University of North Carolina Tar Heels have several Nike slide options with Carolina blue hues and NC logos to showcase team spirit. Girls can rock glittery Heels slides or tie-dye florals.
Beyond Nike, brands like Adidas, Reebok and Under Armour also offer college branded slide sandals. UNC fans can pick slides featuring favorite mascots, slogans and symbols. An embroidered Ram’s Head logo or printed Argyle pattern are fun ways to display Tar Heel pride.
Slide sandals go great with casual summer style like shorts, tank tops, tees and joggers. Their sporty vibe works for campus days, running errands, backyard barbecues, road trips and more. Slip them on and head out the door in laidback UNC or Nike comfort.
So step up your warm-weather footwear game with the cool casual look of slide sandals. University logo slides from brands like Nike and UNC add spirit to any summer outfit while keeping your feet happy all season long.
ISlide Slides Offer Fun and Unique Sandal Options
Want summer sandals that are stylish, comfortable and sport your own personalized flair? ISlide slides check all the boxes for customized fun.
ISlide customized slides were created by college student Jeremy Malwitz who wanted to design creative, unique sandals. The Boston-based brand lets customers customize slide sandals with almost endless combinations of colors, prints, logos and embellishments.
The contoured dual-density foam footbed provides cloud-like cushioning. A rubber outsole gives needed traction on wet and slippery surfaces. The single padded nylon strap gently hugs the foot. And with an antimicrobial topcloth, slides stay fresher.
With their online designer, you can matching top and bottom colors or choose contrasting combos in different shades and patterns. Pick your school logo or Greek letters for sorority slides. Add bling with rhinestones, spikes or chains in silver, gold or rose gold. Put your name, initials or favorite word(s) across the strap.
ISlide also offers officially licensed university slides, so sports fans can design sandals displaying team pride. UNC Tar Heels slides can feature your choice of Carolina blue hues, iconic logos and fun emblems like argyle or plaid.
In addition to the endless options for customizing classic slides, ISlide offers limited edition collections with unique embellishments. Their bridal, floral, butterfly, sports and pet collections add special details for any personal interest.
For summer sandals that truly reflect your individual style, ISlide slides deliver. With almost limitless customization possibilities, you can create your perfect pair of fun, funky sandals for showing off your unique flair.
Are Lacrosse and UNC Sandals Comfortable and Supportive?
With their sporty roots, lacrosse and UNC sandals are designed to provide exceptional comfort and support for active wear. Here’s how they rise above regular flimsy flip flops.
Anatomically molded footbeds are contoured to match the natural shape of the foot, cradling arches and toes in a ergonomic design. This tailored fit helps reduce stress on feet, knees and back compared to flat soles.
Most sport sandal brands use proprietary cushioning foams and gels that absorb shock and reduce fatigue. Generous foam pads under the toes and heels prevent rubbing and blisters in high-friction areas.
Wider straps with padded undersides are gentler on feet versus thin flip flop straps that can dig painfully. Hook-and-loop closures on some styles allow you to adjust straps for a truly custom fit.
The textured outsoles provide essential traction on slippery surfaces, especially when wet. This added grip gives you stability for navigating unpredictable terrain with confidence.
Premium leather straps on brands like Rainbow and Chaco gradually mold perfectly to your feet for glove-like comfort. The soft leather prevents painful irritation from cheap rubber or plastic straps.
With their smart sporty designs focused on all-day wearability, UNC and lacrosse sandals deliver exceptional comfort you just can’t get from basic flip flops. So go ahead and wear them everywhere from campus to the cafe, beach to barbecue!
Are They Durable for Walking Around Campus?
With college life full of walking, campus activities and unpredictable weather, you need sandals that can handle heavy wear. Here’s why lacrosse and UNC sandals fit the bill for durability.
Premium rubber or EVA soles are thick and shock-absorbing to withstand constant pavement pounding without cracking. Rubber also grips surfaces better so you won’t slip on damp walkways.
Strong synthetic or leather straps last longer than cheap foam or plastic. They resist stretching out or becoming misshapen after repeated wear. Sturdy stitching keeps straps firmly attached even after months of hard use.
Reinforced layers and protective pads on high-wear areas like heels and toes prevent early breakdown. This extra shielding helps lacrosse sandals maintain structural integrity with daily campus wear.
Hook-and-loop closure systems adjust to keep straps snugly in place, preventing excess movement and strap sagging that damages materials prematurely. Secure fit also prevents losing your sandals inadvertently.
Major athletic brands design their lacrosse and UNC sandals to be rugged companions for active lifestyles. Premium materials, protective reinforcements and adjustable closures ensure these sandals can withstand regular wear over multiple seasons and still look great.
While cheap foam flip flops quickly get shredded with daily campus wear, lacrosse and UNC sandals are built to handle the walking, weather and adventures of college life. Invest in a quality pair designed for durability, and they’ll become your go-to footwear for all kinds of college fun.
Tips to Keep Lacrosse Sandals Clean and Looking New
Lacrosse sandals see a lot of wear, so keeping them looking like new between yearly replacements takes some care. Here are handy tips to keep your lacrosse sandals clean and fresh.
Rinse sandals after beach and water wear to remove salt, chlorine and other chemicals that can degrade materials prematurely. Be sure to drain and dry thoroughly before storage.
Use mild soap and water to clean straps and footbeds. Avoid harsh detergents that may strip leather finishes. A soft brush can help scrub off dirt.
Disinfect with a sanitizing spray or wipe designed for shoes and athletic gear. This kills bacteria that causes odors without damaging materials.
Stuff sandals with paper or towels to absorb moisture and help them retain shape when not being worn. Rotate between two pairs to give each 24 hours to dry fully between uses.
Use waterproofing sprays like Scotchgard to protect leather and woven straps from staining. Reapply after a few months or if water stops beading up.
Consider replacing comfort insoles if they get overly compressed or dirty. New insoles revive the cushioning and prevent bacterial buildup.
Avoid extreme heat like direct sunlight or dryers that can warp straps and break down adhesives. Let sandals air dry only.
With some basic care between wears, you can keep your beloved lacrosse sandals looking and smelling fresh. Following these tips will add years to their lifespan!
How to Break In Your Lacrosse Sandals Properly
New lacrosse sandals can feel stiff and uncomfortable until you break them in properly. Here’s how to get your new kicks feeling like old friends in no time.
Wear them first with socks, which reduces friction as materials soften up. Thick athletic socks work best to prevent blisters during this phase.
Start with short 30-60 minute periods of wear around the house before venturing outdoors. This allows your body heat and motion to gradually mold and flex new sandals.
Apply leather conditioner to accelerate softening of stiff leather straps. Massage conditioner into undersides and stress points for quicker break-in.
Rinse sandals in cool water while wearing them to help loosen things up, then air dry fully. The combination of wetting and wearing hastens the break-in process.
Pay attention to any hot spots where straps may be rubbing and irritating skin. Use moleskin or bandages as needed to prevent blisters until those areas adapt.
Adjust closures to fine tune fit as materials give and start forming to your feet. Proper fit alignment is key to ultimate comfort.
Within a week of smart wear and care, even the stiffest lacrosse sandals should start feeling broken in. Be patient, letting heat, motion and moisture do the work over time. Before you know it, your custom-contoured sandals will feel like they were made for your feet alone!
Should You Put Socks With Your Lacrosse Sandals?
Opinions run strong on whether or not socks should be worn with sandals. When it comes to lacrosse sandals, there are solid arguments on both sides of this fashion debate.
No Socks – Purists argue the open-toed, laidback vibe of lacrosse sandals is intended to let feet go bare and feel the freedom. Visible socks can seem awkward or defeat the breezy sandal purpose.
Socks – Supporters counter that socks allow you to wear sandals in cooler weather. Socks also prevent rubbing blisters, absorb sweat and provide cushioning for active wear. Finer “no show” socks stay hidden.
It comes down to personal preference, use case and style considerations when deciding on socks with lacrosse sandals.
For a classic, carefree look stick to bare feet with shorts, swimwear or summer dresses. Socks risk looking off with more formal outfits.
When breaking in new leather sandals, socks protect from blisters and help soften things up faster through friction. Ditto for all-day festivals or travel involving lots of walking.
In chillier temperatures, socks allow sandals to be worn into fall and give an added layer of cozy warmth. Go for no-show styles that don’t peek out.
Well-matched socks in similar or complementary hues can look pulled together, not sloppy – especially with athletic slides or sporty outfits.
At the end of the day, decide whether barefoot freedom or comfy protection fits your personal lacrosse sandal wearing style. Both options have their perks!
What Outfits and Clothes Go Well With Lacrosse Sandals?
Lacrosse sandals’ laidback sporty vibe goes great with casual warm-weather styles. Here are some perfect pairings to create effortless summer outfits.
Shorts – From jean cutoffs to lightweight cargo or chino shorts, any shorts style looks natural with lacrosse sandals. Neutral or bright colors work well.
Swimwear – After beach and pool time, grab your lacrosse sandals to stay comfy while keeping sand at bay. They’re perfect cover-ups.
Sundresses – Cute floral, strappy or cotton sundresses become extra summery paired with rainbow or pastel hued lacrosse sandals.
Rompers – Rompers and jumpsuits get even more comfortable and cute paired with lacrosse sandals instead of flats.
Skirts – Flowy maxi skirts or mini denim skirts look adorable with a cropped tee and sporty lacrosse sandals.
Joggers – Mix athleisure vibes by wearing lacrosse sandals with joggers and hoodies for an off-duty model look.
Tanks & Tees – Simple tanks, graphic tees and breezy button downs feel effortlessly chill with lacrosse sandals in matching or contrasting hues.
The natural, unfussy look of lacrosse sandals complements and enhances laidback warm weather outfits. They’ll quickly become your go-to summer footwear!
How to Style UNC and ISlide Slides for Guys and Girls
UNC and ISlide slides are so versatile, it’s easy styling them multiple ways. Here are fun ideas for guys and girls to rock these comfy sandals.
Guys can wear Carolina blue UNC slides with gym shorts and hoodies for laidback campus style. Show school spirit by pairing emblem slides with joggers and tees on game day.
Leather UNC slides add a preppy twist when paired with chino shorts, polos and a baseball hat for a tailgate or day party look. Then switch to jerseys and team slides at the game.
ISlide sport slides customized with logo patterns or prints make a fashion forward statement at summer parties and festivals. Go bold with bright colors and metallics.
Girls can slip on UNC slides with cropped leggings or bike shorts and an oversized tee for casual coffee dates. Add a jean or leather jacket when temps drop.
Cute floral sundresses and skirts look even sweeter paired with pastel or rainbow ISlide slides. Add some personalized bling for extra flair.
Make any tee and shorts outfit pop by mixing in ISlide slides with vibrant colors and patterns. Contrasting combos look seriously stylish.
However you choose to wear them, UNC and ISlide slides add personality to basic looks while providing cloud-like cushioning. Style on!
Staying Safe When Wearing Flip Flops Like Lacrosse Sandals
Flip flops like lacrosse sandals are prime summer footwear, but their open design can lead to some safety concerns. Follow these tips to prevent injuries while wearing your favorite laidback sandals.
Pay attention while walking as thin flip flops offer less stability than closed shoes, especially on uneven surfaces. Going barefoot in some areas may be safest.
Avoid wearing flip flop sandals in active sports, hiking or high intensity activities where feet need protection and support. Secure athletic shoes are a must for vigorous exercise.
Beware of stepping on glass, sharp objects or sea creatures that can wound exposed feet and toes. Be vigilant scanning ground surfaces to sidestep hazards.
Take care on slippery surfaces, as flip flops lack traction. Walk slowly, take small steps and bend knees slightly for better balance if navigating slick pool decks or boat docks.
Never wear flip flops while driving, as they limit foot motion needed for safe pedal operation. Secure close-toed footwear gives best pedal control.
Use caution going up and down stairs in flip flops, holding rails when possible. Bend knees to keep sandals flush to feet and avoid tripping.
Consider adding yoga toe separators between your toes to enhance grip while wearing flip flops or thong sandals.
Simply using common sense and remaining alert can help keep you safe in flip flops. Be mindful of surroundings, walk carefully, and swap sandals for secure shoes in highly active settings.