Sign in Pro
Best Reef Sandals Reviewed
Reef products are known for their extreme comfort and superior styling. Having been manufactured by two brothers in Argentina before moving to San Diego, they immediately took flight with surfers. From there, they rode the wave of popularity into becoming one of the world's leading summer footwear brands. You will love the way that any pair of these feels on your feet, as they are very supportive and cushioning.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
The footbed and the sole are one and the same in a sandal. This is a type of shoe that only has one portion which your foot rests on. There are many different materials from which the footbed/sole can be made.
Cork: Cork is a versatile and durable material. When using it in the footbed and the sole, it can be very malleable and providing an anatomically correct base for the foot. Furthermore, cork, once it becomes warm from body heat, molds to your foot. It is widely accepted as a material that alleviates numerous painful ailments since it is anatomically adjusted to match your specific foot shape.
Rubber: Rubber is lightweight, easy to clean, durable and comfortable. It is one of the most common materials used in footwear soles; it is especially prominent as part of the inner makings. Rubber is a natural material, contrary to popular belief, that it is similar to plastic, which is man-made. Rubber is, for all intents and purposes, indestructible. The only way to actually destroy rubber is to oxide it. That is why it is great for footwear soles.
Foam: Foam is very comfortable and widely available, therefore making it a less costly product to use in footbeds and soles. It comes in a couple of different composites: open-cell foam and closed-cell foam. Open-cell foam is porous, which allows air to freely pass through. Closed-cell is sealed, which prevents anything from escaping or entering. Closed-cell foam is also known as EVA foam.
Synthetics: Synthetic materials used in footwear soles are man-made mixtures. One advantage of using synthetics is that they are widely available and very cost-effective. However, a major disadvantage to using them is that they crease and wear easily, so sometimes they are not so durable.
Another important thing to consider when looking at the material of a sole is the heat retention it will cause. Some people suffer relentlessly from hot feet or feeling as if they are walking on pins and needles. They require footwear that does not add any more heat to their feet.
Some materials are going to be better at releasing heat than others. Cork definitely offers the best breathability of these choices. Foam and some synthetic blends have the unfortunate tendency to trap heat.
Band
The straps of a sandal are where designers really get creative. They can be a continuation of the sole material or something completely different. Footwear designers try to make the straps as comfortable as possible, in order to achieve consumer happiness, and here we will outline some of the strap materials often used and their pros and cons.
Leather: Leather is very durable and can handle all of the adjustings and stretch that is required of a strap. It is is also very soft against the skin, as it changes shape over time and gradually takes on the shape of the foot for maximum comfort.
Rubber: Rubber is a good choice to use for the straps because of its versatility, flexibility, as well as water resistance.
Nylon: Using nylon in the straps is often done because nylon is very durable. It is also soft against the skin and has the tendency to dry fast and repel dirt and mud.
Cotton: Cotton has an unmistakable comfort that nothing else quite mimics. Straps that are made of cotton will not keep your feet hot, nor will they agitate the skin because they rubbed it raw.
Style
When looking at the footwear of this type, it is also very important to consider the purpose of it. Our list is comprised of designs that are versatile and can be used for many different occasions. While Reef options are ubiquitously known for being surfer shoes or comfortable flip flops, if paired with the right outfit, you could easily wear these for almost anything.
The brand definitely tries to add some sparkle and finesse into some of their designs. For instance, some of their options have glitter or woven patterns that raise the posh factor a bit more. For the most part, these products can be rocked at the beach, a low key wedding, and with casual clothes, amongst other things.
The goal of this brand is to bring cool to the casual look. When shopping for this type of footwear, you may want to look for something that has the versatility to it, that can transition from day to night, beach to a dinner date with ease.
Traction
Traction is the ability of the sole of the shoe to grip on the terrain you are walking on. In most cases, footwear is designed with lugs or tread patterns to help maintain your balance, so that you don't accidentally slip or skid. This is especially important if you find yourself in wet conditions and on sleek surfaces, such as in a public shower or near a swimming pool.
Flip-flops and summer footwear, in general, have a very small tread pattern. They are made to look flat on the ground. However, Reef does a decent job of providing traction when you need it the most. Look for herringbone patterns or even concentric circles, which provide you with traction in multiple directions and help you stay on your feet.
Depending on how often you wear the designs, and how well you take care of them, the tread on most flip-flops wears faster than on other types of footwear. Over the course of wear, you should watch the sole of your footwear for a decrease in the tread. You definitely do not want to risk a fall because of slick footwear and uncooperative terrain.
Comfort
Comfort has an impact on how you feel wearing a certain pair of shoes. Do you enjoy them? If a design isn't well fitted or comfortable, it will significantly affect how good you feel in your footwear. In fact, some of the most heinous comfort offenders end up relegated to the back of our closets. This is why comfort is so important; nine times out of ten, it can make or break a purchase.
So, how do you know that you're getting a comfortable design? Well, the most definite way is to actually try it on your feet. Walk around a little in it, see how it feels. However, this can be difficult when it comes to online shopping, which brings us to the second-best way to determine comfort.
Quite simply, look at the features and materials of the design, as well as the overall fit. Some options will feature a memory foam footbed or a closure system with an adjustable fit.
You should also check the size offerings, and how they run. Some footwear will run small or large, others will run wide or narrow. You need to find something that works well with your unique foot shape and comfort needs.
Top 10 Reef Sandals
1. Star Cushion Sassy
The Star Cushion Sassy is a platform sandal that will make your feet happy. It has a strap that secures it to your feet to prevent the design from flopping all around. Additionally, the sole is a very cushioned and soft EVA footbed with an outsole with good traction. You will have no trouble keeping your balance when wearing these. Also, they make the perfect partner for beach days or casual outings with friends.
Many people do not mind thin straps across their feet. However, for some it is uncomfortable. The Cushion Sassy comes with a thick strap that is made from a soft material. It won't cause any chafing and your feet will feel comfortable throughout. The Star Cushion Sassy is water-friendly, meaning you can get wet in the rain or while lounging by the pool without any problems. Also, the outsole has good traction on it so you don't have to worry about slipping if the flip flops happen to get wet.
The Star Cushion Sassy is of great value. Not only is it highly-rated, but you can also wear them around water without worry, making them a great everyday design.
2. Fanning
Named for a three-time legendary world surfing champion, Rick Fanning, this design is more than meets the eye. The iconic feature of this option is the bottle opener implemented directly into the footbed. No need to hunt around for an opener when you just finished hitting the pool or beach. Also, the Fanning has the classic herringbone outsole which gives it a pop of attitude compared to some other designs. The footbed is extremely comfortable, being constructed with EVA foam.
For the ultimate comfort on the heel, this design has an air cushion enclosed in soft polyurethane. Your foot will feel padded and supported with each heel strike you make. No more stone bruises with the Fanning. Properly supporting the arches is vital to the safety and longevity of the bones in the foot. Many feet and leg pains can be helped with proper arch support, and the arch of this design melts to your foot pattern. Therefore, it will fit your specific contours perfectly.
If you compare the Fanning to other options in the same category, it is one of the highest-rated for comfort and quality. It also receives high marks for longevity. Furthermore, it is good looking and can be worn with lots of outfits and for many different occasions. You will get plenty of use for this design.
3. Sandy
Sandy is one of the most popular designs of this brand. It is a customer favorite thanks to its full-width polyester strap and thick brushed EVA footbed. The strap will keep the top of your foot from chafing, and the EVA footbed will cushion your foot and cradle it to make you feel like you are walking on clouds. Lastly, the arch support is anatomically designed to support your foot and to prevent pain due to a lack of support.
The foam footbed of the Sandy is a generous 3/4-inch thickness crafted with durability in mind. It will cushion your foot as you walk on a daily basis. Compared to some other designs on our list, the thick and soft polyester strap on the Sandy will feel soft against your skin. It can help prevent friction and possibly chafing if you are prone to outbreaks due to sensitive skin.
This highly-reviewed option can fit into almost any budget and will make you very satisfied with your purchase. With proper care, you should have plenty of life out of Sandy, even if it is a daily wearing design.
4. Ginger
The Ginger is a dainty and sophisticated design. It consists of a thinner strap and is perfect to take you from the beach to the mall and everywhere in between. It has a mid-range thickness sole that is typical EVA outsole construction. Your feet will feel cushioned and properly supported thanks to the technologically advanced anatomical arch support. Even after wearing these for the whole day, the gel-like footbed will have your feet feeling like you just put them on.
A 0.75-inch outsole that is constructed from EVA is the ultimate lifesaver for your feet. The EVA is an industry-wide phenomenon that reduces bulk and softens your steps. This design and its simple sophistication can take you anywhere with poise. It is classic and timeless. You can plan to wear these sandals with everything, from dresses to pants to shorts. Even for low-key "formal" events, you could pair these with a skirt and still look put-together.
Ginger has a perfect price point and will quickly become your go-to design. It has high ratings for durability and will last for a long time if cared for properly.
5. Bounce Vista
The Bounce Vista from Reef is one perfectly cushioned sandal, with a dual over the foot strap you can simply slide right into. It’s a more casual pair for summertime events, or perfect for lounging around the house or boardwalk. With the brand's anatomical support build into the design, it not only supports you when walking but with its plush rubber sole, each step feels like you’re walking on clouds. A few different color options are available, so you can find one that speaks to your style. And as an added positive, all materials in this pair are vegan-friendly!
Uppers are crafted from vegan leather, soft and supple to the touch. The Bounce Vista keeps a slide sandal design, with dual wide straps that hug the foot into place. Its style is more casual than some other sandals, but you can take this pair from home to the boardwalk or hang out on the sand with ease. A few color options are available, so you’ll find one perfect for pieces in your wardrobe of summer wear.
What we love most about the Bounce Vista is its technology to keep you supported and comfortable, all day long! Inside, an anatomical design crafted support areas for the arch, as well as the heel, allowing your foot to feel supported even for longer durations of wear. Cushion Bounce Technology helps return energy to you with each step. The outsole is made from a spongy rubber, that has each step feeling like soft imprints made on a cloud. It’s well worth a look for its comfort and easy-going style!
6. Smoothy
The Smoothy can become your go-to choice for casual and some dressy events. It has been a long-standing Reef staple. The Smoothy is made from full-grain leather upper with a polyester lining for added comfort. This is all atop a patented triple-density EVA footbed sole. It is leading the way for comfort and durability due to its quality construction and material composition.
The soles of this option will move with your foot so that you have the highest degree of comfort possible. Being flexible and moving with your foot adds to durability since the design is not fighting against you. The leather straps on this sandal are comfortable and will provide you with a tailored type of comfort. They are going to withstand pretty much anything and will provide a very soft and pleasurable experience.
The Smoothy is top-rated for durability and dependability that buyers have come to trust and expect from this brand. It is made for relaxing times at the beach, or casual strolls around town, and it will definitely make you light and carefree on your feet.
7. Stargazer
If you are searching for a little bit of sparkle in your choice of footwear, then look no further. The thong strap of the Stargazer will pop off of your foot when everyone catches the subtle sparkle these shoes have. Their footbed is smooth and feels very soft against the bottom of the foot. Finally, the rubber sole makes for an excellent choice to prevent slips and falls when walking on wet or adverse surfaces.
The Stargazer has an outsole that is flexible. It will move with your foot during each step as well as when bending or stretching. Your foot will not feel constricted no matter what you're doing. The straps of this design, even though they are skinny, still catch attention. The brand decided to put subtle glitter all over the strap to give the design a little pizzaz. You will look great wearing these to the pool or for a night on the town.
The Stargazer comes very high-rated for wonderful quality backed by a company that loves its consumers. It falls at one of the lowest price points in the category; which means it fits into almost any budget without breaking the bank.
8. Slap 3
The Slap 3 will make your feet slap-happy. It is an excellent choice for the avid outdoor water seeker. You won't have to worry about the degradation of these when you get them wet either by accident or choice - they are 100 percent water friendly. Also, they have a textured footbed that will keep your foot feeling secure after it gets wet. Finally, they are always comfortable and have a supportive sole that leaves your legs and feet not feeling tired after walking all day.
To encourage proper gait and stance, Slap 3 has an offset heel and toe. This will provide so many health benefits; everything from slouching, back-ache, hip problems and more can be alleviated with proper stance, stride, and footwear. Nubuck leather provides an ultra-comfortable strap on the Slap 3 that rests easily against your skin. When you wear this option, you don't have to worry about the strap chafing against your skin or digging into it.
With Slap 3, you will have a very versatile design. This is one of the only ones in the category that is 100 percent water friendly. That means you can wear it every day whether faced with rain or shine. It is also highly rated for durability so you will have a design that lasts a long time, with proper care.
9. Bliss
If you’re looking for something simple and easy, a classic flip flop silhouette, then you have come to the right place. The Bliss is a handcrafted sandal with endless versatility - with it you can go from breakfast on the balcony to a beach wedding without changing your footwear! It is water-friendly and quite durable, and it requires zero break-in period to feel good.
The Bliss has straps made of vegan leather to keep you comfortable. These straps won’t stretch or lose their shape if you find yourself in wet conditions. The footbed is made from EVA, for shock absorption and comfort wherever you go. This easy sandal comes in several bright, summery color combinations, and we absolutely love the neon mint one in our picture.
While having a stylish, fancy option is great, sometimes we all just need a little simplicity in our lives. The Bliss is here to complete our summer collection; it is easy to wear, easy to pack and amazingly beach-friendly! What more could we possibly want out of a design like this?
10. Rover Catch
If you are in the market for a simple, yet stylish sandal, then look no further than the Rover Catch. Rest assured, however, that the design also makes a perfect choice for casual outfits too. The strap is a bit thinner but gives a dainty and polished look. You will be walking with extreme comfort as the Rover Catch has the expected cushioned footbed.
This design can take you from day to night and from work to an evening with friends. Also, it can easily be worn for summer weddings or any other social event. EVA ensures flexibility and comfort all without adding any extra bulk; therefore it reduces the weight of a shoe. The EVA in the Rover Catch helps it to bend and move with your foot. EVA has also been shown to add to the durability of a design.
You can easily purchase the Rover Catch knowing you will have a design that can be worn for many different occasions. It can become an everyday option as it is more than suitable for social settings. The Reef brand is synonymous with durability so these should last you for a long time, with proper care and precautions.
Sources