Five footwear collaborations with a summer spirit

With summer just around the corner, five footwear collaborations celebrate the arrival of fine weather. We take a look at these summer alliances, combining design, expertise, and innovation.

Muji x Camper: Japanese minimalism and Spanish ergonomics

Following a collaboration with Reebok, Japanese brand Muji has teamed up with Spanish footwear brand Camper to revisit the PEU, an ergonomic model designed to reproduce the sensation of walking barefoot. Made with Leather Working Group-certified materials and shock-absorbing vulcanized rubber, this pair boasts long-lasting comfort. Available online and in a handful of Muji boutiques in Paris and London, the model sells for 199 euros.

Superga x Armor-Lux: Italy with Breton accents

The Superga 2750 sneaker has been given a Breton makeover by the Armor-Lux brand. Marine embroidery and evocations of the gondoliers’ wardrobe are the hallmarks of this capsule. In addition to sneakers for children (from 55 euros), women, and men (85 euros), the collaboration includes a striped tee-shirt and a fisherman’s jacket (139 euros). Available online as well as in Armor-Lux boutiques and a selection of Superga stores.

Birkenstock x Maharishi: the luxury military version of the sandal

The Mogami Terra Tech sandal, designed to tackle the city as well as steep trails, is the result of a partnership between German footwear specialist Birkenstock and Maharishi, the eco-responsible urban clothing brand founded in 1994 by Hardy Blechman. With its anatomical sole and straps combining suede leather and sturdy nylon, complete with quick-release fastenings, this sandal, which retails for 280 euros, is an assertive blend of style and innovation. Available in selected Birkenstock stores, as well as at Maharishi locations in London and New York.

Havaianas x Dolce&Gabbana: “couture” flip-flops

Once again, the collaboration between Brazil’s Havaianas and Italy’s Dolce&Gabbana elevates the flip-flop to the status of a fashion accessory. On the program for this new alliance: six limited edition models (from 130 euros) in animal, floral, or tropical prints, sometimes even in faux fur or macramé. A collection to brighten up asphalt and sand alike, to be found in Havaianas flagship boutiques, pop-up stores, and selected retailers around the world, as well as on both labels’ e-commerce sites.

Sessùn x Flabelus: the espadrille that celebrates craftsmanship

Marseille-based fashion brand Sessùn has teamed up with Spanish label Flabelus to reinvent the espadrille. The result is two feminine models, Mary Jane and Bracelet, handcrafted in a traditional Alicante workshop. Each model features a recycled rubber sole and indigo blue striped French fabric. A handcrafted elegance sold for 175 euros on the Sessùn website and in the brand’s boutiques.