© Riudavets
If you’re forgoing a trip to the Mediterranean in favor of a summer staycation, you don’t have to travel far to score the popular sustainable sandals worn by the Spanish royal family to local farmers and island vacationers in Menorca, Spain. Now conveniently available stateside–online and in New York, at Maryam Nassir Zadeh–these authentic summer kicks (I tried out a complimentary pair) are handmade by the third generation family-run Avarcas Riudavets with Spanish leather and100% recycled rubber tire sole.
© Riudavets
Originally designed to keep Menorcan villagers’ feet cool and comfortable, Avarca sandals today still boast these functional traits. Like a pair of TOMS or Simple shoes, you need to take a second look to notice the quality design and style potential. When you do, you’ll see their simple and timeless appeal; these unique shoes are sure to stand out amidst a sea of summer’s same-old sandals.
© Riudavets
For a hippie chic look, don them with a laid-back look from Eileen Fisher’s eco collection or dress them up with Organic by John Patrick’s colorful Resort 2013 collection.
© Riudavets
Riudavets Avarcas are available in men, women, and children sizes and a variety of classic colors, including black, white, natural, navy, green, brown, and khaki, as well as more modern hues, like gold and silver.
© Riudavets
Plan to wear these kicks in before you get the full effect. “Mine broke in in just a couple days,” a spokesperson for Riudavets USA told TreeHugger. “Once they do it is like they are made just for your feet! It’s like the more worn they are, the cooler they are, like your favorite pair of jeans.”
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