Chunky Sandals: Why Chunky Sandals Will Replace Sneakers This Fall
Chunky sandals are about to become your go-to footwear this fall, and honestly, it’s no surprise. They’re bold, they’re comfy, and they deliver major style without weighing you down. For years, chunky sneakers have dominated sidewalks, Instagram feeds, and closets. But now, a fresher, breezier contender has stepped into the ring. This season, thick-soled sandals are ready to take over, and once you understand why, you might just find yourself packing away those chunky kicks for good.
Why chunky sandals feel fresher than chunky sneakers
Let’s be real—chunky sneakers had a great run. They were the “it” shoe for seasons on end, offering that oversized, fashion-forward silhouette that screamed street style chic. However, trends move fast, and comfort priorities shift. This is exactly why chunky sandals are stealing the spotlight.
First, they’re breathable. Unlike sneakers, which can trap heat and moisture, chunky sandals give your feet room to breathe. That means fewer sweaty sock situations and more comfort during those in-between fall days when the sun still likes to surprise you.
Second, they’re lighter. Sneakers—especially those with heavy soles—can feel clunky after hours of wear. Thick-soled sandals, on the other hand, provide the same statement look but without the extra poundage. So whether you’re walking to work, browsing weekend markets, or strolling through the park, you’re not dragging your feet by sunset.
Lastly, there’s just something effortlessly cool about a sandal in autumn. Maybe it’s the confidence of pairing them with thick socks or the rebellious vibe of open toes in cool weather. Either way, they have that “I didn’t try too hard, but I still look good” factor that fashion lovers crave.
The rise of platform sandals over sneakers
Platform sandals—one of the main types of chunky sandals—have been making quiet moves for a few seasons. They popped up in summer wardrobes, dominated festival style, and started sneaking into transitional outfits. But this fall, they’re officially the MVP.
Fashion houses like Gucci have launched platform sandals in rich fall tones and luxe materials. Meanwhile, streetwear giants are dropping sport-style platforms that rival the visual weight of chunky sneakers. The result? A sandal that bridges comfort, style, and season-readiness.
Another reason platforms are winning? Height. People love the extra inches without the instability of stilettos or the heavy lift of wedge sneakers. Platforms distribute weight evenly, so you can strut without feeling like you’re teetering.
Plus, they’re surprisingly versatile. Pair them with cropped jeans and a leather jacket for a city-cool vibe, or with wide-leg trousers and a chunky knit for a cozy-chic look. Sneakers can pull off similar combos, sure, but platforms add a twist that feels fresh right now.
Brands pushing chunky sandals into the spotlight
If you think chunky sandals are just an influencer fad, think again. Brands are backing this shift with serious investment—and the numbers prove it.
- Teva has seen record sales in their platform and sport sandal lines this year, reporting double-digit growth thanks to their perfect mix of comfort and street style appeal.
- Dr. Martens, known for its iconic boots, saw triple-digit growth in its chunky sandal sales over the past year—proof that their edgy aesthetic translates perfectly into open-toe designs.
- Gucci launched a platform sandal this past summer that sold out in less than a week, showing that luxury shoppers are embracing the shift just as much as everyday consumers.
When major brands shift focus like this, it’s usually a sign the trend isn’t just seasonal—it’s here to stay for a while.
From dads’ practical dad sandals to runway icons
You know those “dad sandals” your parents wore on summer road trips? The ones that were all straps and comfort? Well, they’ve had a major glow-up.
High-fashion brands have taken the practical DNA of dad sandals—wide straps, supportive soles—and reinvented them with luxe leather, metallic buckles, and exaggerated platforms. Now, what was once purely functional is suddenly high-fashion material, spotted on runways from Paris to Milan.
But here’s the magic: they still feel approachable. While chunky sneakers can sometimes veer into “trying too hard” territory, dad sandals keep things grounded. They’re stylish but never fussy, which makes them a favorite for off-duty models and street style stars alike.
Comfy charm: chunky slides win for fall
Chunky slides—basically slip-on versions of chunky sandals—are another reason sneakers might take a back seat this fall. They’re unbeatable for quick errands, coffee runs, or spontaneous nights out.
Because they’re so easy to slide on and off, they add a layer of casual convenience sneakers just can’t match. And when made with cushy footbeds and supportive soles, they’re surprisingly good for all-day wear.
This fall, brands are dropping slides in earthy suede, plush shearling, and even quilted textures. That means you can wear them barefoot on warmer days or with socks when it gets chilly—and either way, they still look intentional.
Styling thick-soled sandals with cozy outfits
Wondering how to make thick-soled sandals work in cooler weather? The answer is layering.
Pair them with chunky socks—think ribbed, patterned, or even fuzzy—and cropped trousers for a balanced silhouette. Oversized sweaters, shackets, and knit dresses all play beautifully with the bulk of a chunky sandal.
And if you’re a skirt person, tights with sandals are officially cool again. Try opaque black tights with black platforms for a sleek, elongated look, or go bold with colored tights and neutral sandals.
The beauty of chunky sandals is their ability to transform depending on what you wear. With the right outfit, they can look polished enough for work or relaxed enough for a weekend farmers’ market stroll.
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Question
What’s your ultimate fall sandal look—chunky sandals with socks or bold bare toes?