Native Shoes' Paolo sandals
Savour this rain-free weather (fingers crossed!) by letting your toes breathe and wiggle about in a pair of Native Shoes’ just-launched Paolo sandals (pictured). These washable, waterproof—not to mention odour-resistant and shock-absorbent—dual-density flip-flops have foot peaks to massage your soles while you walk. Pick up a pair at www.nativeshoes.com, Gravitypope or Roden Gray.—Jennifer Patterson
Sandals by Anna Sui for Hush Puppies
Fashion designer Anna Sui’s new collection for Hush Puppies proves that comfort and style really can co-exist. In fact, each uber-chic pair mixes whimsy with an oh-so-comfortable sole. Add some height with the patent toe oxfords, channel Coachella with fringed booties, set the mood with kissing-fish slip-ons, and savour the summer weather in cute sandals—with a cherry on top, naturally. At The Bay and www.hushpuppies.com.—Jennifer Patterson
AYA flip-flop by Claudia Alan
Summer days aren’t too far away. Give your tootsies a treat with a pair of AYA flip-flops by Claudia Alan. The Canadian company adorned its comfy rubber-soled sandals with frog and raven motifs by local First Nations artist Corrine Hunt, who designed the medals for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Now that’s what we call a winning combination. Available at www.claudiaalanstore.com. —Kristina Urquhart
The funky rhino is made of flip-flops
Smarten up your summer decor with a trip to HomeSense. Spark a conversation with a colourful recycled flip-flop rhino (pictured), made entirely from sandals washed up on the Kenyan shoreline. Each one of these bright animals is carved by hand and created to promote environmental awareness. Each sale helps to provide sustainable livelihoods for artisans.—Jennifer Patterson
Cute, classy and eco-friendly sandals from De la Rue Shoes
Thanks to De la Rue Shoes, recycling has never looked so good. Recycled, you ask? Yup, these stylish designed-in-Vancouver slip-ons have a sturdy base made from reclaimed rubber tires, which makes them long-lasting, eco-friendly and more than just a lil’ unique. Keep it classy in silver (pictured, $120) or have fun with your summer style and take the rainbow-coloured ones for a spin. Purchase a pair at Eugene Choo or The Block, or buy online at www.delarueshoes.com.—Jennifer Patterson