I'm A Fashion Editor – These Comfy Summer Sandals Are The New Birkenstocks
As a self-confessed Birkenstock stan (seriously, between the months of April to October they're all I'm wearing in the shoe department) it takes A LOT for me to consider donning anything different. That is, until Keen came along.
With 2025 belonging solely (get it) to so-called 'ugly' shoes, footwear that brings a little weirdo charm to the proceedings, note the beautifully clompy platform Crocs or wonderfully bizarre ballerina-sneaker hybrids that, on paper, should not work but in practise look fantastic. Toeing the line (sorry) between sandals and 'proper' shoes and sitting comfortably within the aforementioned 'odd looking shoe' zeitgeist, Keen's Uneek sandals are emerging as one of 2025's breakout shoe trends for summer. And best of all... THEY'RE REALLY COMFY.
My first foray into the Keen Uneek style began with a trip to Vietnam in 2024. With packing space at a minimum, temperatures hitting the early 40s and with plenty of steps on the horizon, I needed something I could travel in, hike in (well, walk up some big hills) and explore in without the worry of blisters. Enter Keen, a brand that started off as the practical choice for the Gorpcore girlies, not only are the soles built for purpose and super grippy but the string breathable exterior keeps your feel completely cool. Finally the elastic fastening is completely adjustable meaning you can easily tighten up or slip off making them ideal for airports. This techy style was quickly adopted by the fashion pack, offering up change from the usual slides and trainers and cementing their seal of sartorial approval.
Want to wear yours with full hiking gear for a clamber up the nearest hill? Sure, go for it. More interested in pottering to your local for an Aperol in the sunshine? Be my guest. Wherever you're off to, these are just the ticket, looking just as good with a floaty summer dress and sunglasses as they will with leggings and a windbreaker.
So if you, too, are also always on the hunt for comfy summer sandals (sorry, blisters are simply never worth it no matter how beautiful those heels are) I can confirm these are some of the best around...
Keen, Uneek Sandals In Off-White
Consider go-with-everything cream as your new everyday go-to pair. Although a pale shade, the off-white colour camouflages inevitable marks and smudges.
Keen, Uneek Sandals In Pink
Try the bubblegum pink and blue colourway for a fun, techy take. Wear yours with white parachute pants and a tank top for the easiest summer outfit.
Keen, Uneek Sandals In Khaki
Whether you're off exploring or heading out for a day running errand, this khaki shade will see you all the way through the summer and beyond.
Keen, Uneek Sandals In Black
If your wardrobe is devoid of colour (mine too) consider the all black version that's guarenteed to go with every item of clothing you own.
Julia Harvey has been Grazia's shopping editor for four years, overseeing and editing all things shopping for the title from trend pages, interiors, gift guides and the best things to buy now in both print and online.
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