Havaianas...still some chanclas

So I ordered a pair of "luxury" sandals. Flip flops. Sandalias. Chanclas. You get the gist.

I first saw these in FHM a few years ago, and again in Spin Magazine. Did a bit of research, and quite frankly just wasn't too impressed with them at the time. I was quite content with my Reef Fannings (the ones with the bottle opener).

That was a few years ago. After numerous weird tan lines (due the Fanning's wide straps) and the polyurethane breaking down, it was time to look. I put it off for some time, but with an impending cruise to the Caribbean coming up, it really was time.

I knew I wanted some with thin straps, but many of them were deigned "female shoes". I really wanted a minimalist kinda sandal, but these were the only one. That was sign #1.

On a jaunt into the city for the purpose of procuring protection for my feet (like the consonnance?), I looked through a number of stores that we visited, but to no avail did the right pair jump out at me. Sign #2. I don't need a third sign.

With a time crunch on my hands, I started surfing the 'Net upon arriving at the house and after checking Crocs (the site was down...WTF?) I visited a favorite of mine, Zappos. Free overnight shipping, great selection and decent pricing, what's not to like?

Checked out the selection and even found a pair of +$100 sandals. Too rich for me. Many of hte Reef's had the wide straps I was deliberately trying to avoid. These caught my eye and..well, I bought them.

Okay, so for a bit over $20, what's not to like? A day sooner than I expected, they arrived and I've been wearing them since. Cool and breathing, supple sole, without feeling heavy or excessively flimsy. I'd liken them to a favorite pair of jeans or hoodie: just right.

I know it's early, but I've been left with a good impression thus far.

We'll see how they handle the Gulf of Mexico.

Shazam!