The Gen XY Lifestyle
FitFlop Review: Banda Leather Slide Sandal
When we think about comfort and chunky midsoles, FitFlop is the first thing that comes to mind. Here’s our take on the new Banda Leather Slide Sandal from their latest Autumn Winter 2015 collection.
Known for its “triple density Microwobbleboard” midsoles designed to absorb shock and diffuse underfoot pressure, British ergonomic footwear label, FitFlop, prides itself in delivering extraordinary comfort by providing instant relief to the feet. FitFlop’s products are perfect for creatures of comfort who spend prolonged hours walking around – be it to do grocery shopping or to run daily errands.
To achieve comfort without compromising on style, FitFlop’s latest Autumn Winter 2015 collection features products that combine modern metallic hues, as well as chic, muted colours to cater to the fashionable male and female.
FitFlop introduces its Banda series in the new FF2 women’s collection, incorporating the new “SupercomFF” midsole into ballerinas, loafers, slides and sandals.
We tried on their new Banda Leather Slide Sandals in the colour Gold, and were immediately impressed by its sleek and edgy design.
At first glance, the Banda slide comes with a less chunky midsole – almost half the thickness of its older classic designs. This instantly takes the product to a whole new level of chic with its less weighed-down appearance, and could probably take a few years off your entire look as compared to wearing footwear with thicker midsoles.
While the midsoles are still slightly thicker than the average sandal, the Banda slides are surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to carry along for travel or work. Its minimalistic design – two slim straps with one in metallic gold and the other in black leather, lends sleekness and style to those who still want to look dressy while retaining comfort.
One thing about the straps that you’ll be thankful for is its wide-fit design. The metallic gold strap does nothing to constrain the joints of your toes – giving your tired feet a break from tight, pointy shoes, and prevents the formation of undesirable bunions or blisters! Those with narrower feet would probably fit better with the Banda Flip Flops than the slides.
The Banda slide is also easy to slip on, just as you would with your usual flip flops. With no buckles or additional straps to hold the back of your feet, you can just imagine how easy and convenient it would be to slip these slides on wherever you go. If you’re worried that your feet may slip off while walking, the Banda Sandal is always another great option.
Now to the most important feature of the Banda slide – its new double density “SupercomFF” midsole. According to FitFlop, the “SupercomFF” midsole technology is designed to diffuse areas of high pressure in traditionally slim shoe shapes. With the Banda slide’s soft leather insole and SupercomFF midsole, it provides just the right amount of cushioning to prevent your heels from cracking after a long day out.
As for the fit, the Banda slide model runs slightly smaller than the standard shoe sizes. To maximise your level of comfort when wearing the Banda slides, FitFlop recommends that you get a size bigger than your normal. As the edges of the heel cups are on the harder side, getting a size up would also protect your heels from any potential chafing when walking.
If you’re looking for comfort, style and versatility all in one, FitFlop’s Banda series makes an ideal choice of footwear.
The Banda Leather Slide Sandal comes in three colours – Mazarine Blue, Silver and Gold, and is priced at SGD 219.90 a pair. The sandals are available for purchase at Takashimaya, Isetan (Scotts, Tampines and Katong), Metro, Tangs and Robinsons. For a full list of authorised FitFlop stockists, please visit here.
