Flop and Pop
Fanning sandals
by Sarah Pelot
June 25, 2007
After world-renowned Australian pro-surfer Mick Fanning's signature sandal was
introduced, Reef was flooded with requests for a female version of the shoe. Eager to see what all
the fuss is about, I take a pair of the Fanning Sandals for women ($45) out for a test. The
contoured CMEVA footbed with an air-cushion midsole provides support to my feet without feeling
bulky, and the full 360-degree heel airbag enclosed in soft polyurethane has me feeling like I'm
walking on air. I spend the afternoon on the boat, where I find that the water-friendly
synthetic nubuck upper and rubber outsole withstand the marine elements, quickly drying after a
splash or two of water.
It's at an evening cookout that I discover why these sandals have a reputation that precedes
them. The church key bottle opener built into the soles of the shoes turns me into the life
of the party. Opening bottles left and right, I watch my friends rave about the functionality of
such a cute shoe. (One thing I have to point out is that unless you want to spray people with their
beverages, it's a good idea to take the shoe off before attempting to open their bottles.) The
shoes' outsoles hide the recessed bottle openers, so not only can I walk around without noticing
them, but I'm also able to walk on the boat as I was earlier, without fear of leaving marks
or scratching the deck. These cool, casual shoes are sure to be a girl's mandatory summer
accessory. The women's Fannings are medium-width and come in sizes 5 to 11 with four color
combinations. (800) 423-6855.
Related Links:
www.reef.com (http://www.reef.com)