The Solstice Sandal from Soft Star Shoes

In the summertime I usually live in flip flops. But unfortunately flip flops are really horrible for your feet though, and can even leave you vulnerable to injury. With sandals, you give your feet full support on the heel, so you avoid clenching your toes and causing unnecessary stress on your feet, ankles, and ultimately your whole body. I'm definitely trying to wear sandals more often now that I know better.

Disclosure: I received complimentary product for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

My latest pair of sandals is the Solstice Sandal from Soft Star Shoes. As I've shared before, Soft Star Shoes is a handmade operation in Corvalis, Oregon and has been running for 30 years. Using traditional techniques in shoe-making, everything is done by hand, and they take great pride in being as environmentally friendly as possible through reusing and recycling. Their focus is on beautiful, unique, handmade leather shoes for the whole family.
 

The Solstice Sandal was well received when released as a new design last year. This year, Soft Star Shoes re-released the Solstice Sandal with the option of a Flora Motif of flower petals. I went for a black sandal with a turquoise Flora Motif.

Although these can be ordered in pre-selected colors, there is always the Design-Your-Own (DYO) option which is what I did. When you choose to DYO, you have ultimate control in creating your own color combination and opt to omit the Flora Motif if you wish (although it's way too cute to do that!).

This open-toe style helps keep you cool and beat the summer heat, despite the authentic premium leather material. They're also very lightweight, and won't bog down your summer adventures. Did you know that Soft Star even hand cuts the leather too? 

This may be a very different style than my Soft Star Ballerines, but the quality materials and high level of comfort are the same. They're very flexible and mold nicely to your feet as a result. There hasn't been a break-in period at all, and have been incredibly comfortable from day one. And that's really saying something because my feet are apparently very picky! 
 

I love the little details of the Solstice Sandal. The heel cut out gives this style a bit more personality, and of course the fun Flora Motif gives a pretty feminine touch. Combined with all the exposed stitching and buckle closure, this is a stylish sandal that you'll want to wear with everything. Don't worry, the Merry Jane is the perfect Soft Star shoe to transition into cooler whether when it's time to put these away!

The Vibram rubber sole is thin, yet all you need in a good shoe. Shoes are about protecting your feet from the elements, and these do just that. They almost feel like you're walking barefoot, which is what any minimalist wants. 

Just how flexible are the Vibram soles? Here you go! Yes, they're very squishable.

When figuring your shoe size, consider that the Solstice Sandal runs larger that other Soft Star styles. I was able to get away with a 7, despite my size 8 Ballerines, and my typical size 9 feet.
 

The Solstice Sandal is a refreshing change to my summer flip flops. My feet are well supported yet feel practically barefoot. I can wear them all day without them hurting my feet too. The black goes with everything, and the turquoise coordinates well with a lot of my wardrobe because it's close to my favorite color. I can't recommend these enough!

The Solstice Sandal is available starting at $90. For DYO inspiration and several basic solid colors, shop now at SoftStarShoes.com. Buy American-made today!