I make the same mistake every summer. I see a cute pair of sandals, wear them once, develop painful blisters and never wear them again. You know how it goes: sometimes you get caught up in how a shoe looks versus how comfortable it'll be eight hours in when you're hobbling home from work.
But two years ago, I bought a black pair of Havaianas Una Acai sandals on a whim during a sale, and have spent ever since telling everyone I know that they need a pair.
Design and features
The Havaianas Una Acai is a modern take on the classic sandal, designed to be both stylish and practical. Priced at £45, it features a lightweight cushioned foam sole, slim tubular straps and an elasticated back strap for a secure, comfortable fit. The sandal also has a non-slip outsole for added grip, making it suitable for everything from city walks to holidays and poolside wear. With its minimalist design and all-day comfort, it's a versatile option that can be paired with everything from linen trousers to summer dresses.
You may baulk at the £45 price tag for what look like your standard flip-flops, but they're so much better than your standard plastic sandal. Here's why I would buy them in every colour.
Comfort and durability
Instead of slapping around your foot, picking up dirt, or getting stuck on stairs, the slim straps sit neatly against your ankle and between your toes without causing discomfort, pain, or blisters. I could talk for hours about how comfortable they are, thanks to a cushioned foam footbed that doesn't leave your feet feeling swollen and puffy, and I've walked all across London in them for hours.
They go with everything, from the beach and holiday pool, outfits for commuting to the office, weddings, even out to dinner, without tired feet at the end.
On that note, they're easy to clean too; they're quick-drying when wet, whether they're caught in a downpour (you can always rely on the British summer for thunderstorms) or when I've rinsed them off under a tap at the beach. There's five minutes of squelching, and then they're back to bone dry again.
They're so comfortable, versatile and stylish, so much so, I haven't bought any sandals since because I simply don't need to. Two years in, the cushioning is just as plush as it was when I first took them out of the box.
Value for money
The only downside is the price, but given I was spending £20 a time on sandals that wrecked my feet, I think it's worth spending more for comfort. While I have them in black, Havianas sells them in metallic chrome shades, as well as vibrant pinks, peaches and oranges. Just take your pick; I guarantee your feet will thank you.
