Easy On, Easy Off: The Best Riptape Sandals this Season
Welcome June with open arms. After months of unpredictable weather, the first glimpses of sunshine feel like permission to step outside and finally embrace the season we’ve been waiting for. Trainers are always on hand, especially in the UK, but as summer plans begin to fill the diary, sandals naturally take centre stage.
Whatever your summer style looks like, there’s one thing we can all agree on: when the days get busier and warmer, ease matters. That's exactly where riptape fastening comes into its own. Many of our favourite Gabor sandals cleverly conceal riptape fastening beneath elegant buckle detailing, creating a customised fit when needed, especially in warmer temperatures when feet naturally swell.
Here are the riptape sandals we’ll be reaching for all season long.
The Embrace
Elegant, versatile and endlessly wearable, Embrace in black suede is the kind of sandal that instantly makes summer dressing feel effortless. Whether paired with flowing midi dresses, relaxed tailoring or holiday evening looks, it brings a refined finish to every outfit.
The timeless black suede upper feels sophisticated yet easy to wear, while the neutral PU wedge sole offers a fresh alternative to traditional espadrille styles. At 7.5 cm high, the wedge gives you added height without sacrificing comfort, distributing weight evenly for a more supportive feel throughout the day.
The wrap-around upper beautifully frames the foot, while the open-toe design keeps everything breathable in warmer weather. One of our favourite details is the raffia-effect buckle, designed to discreetly conceal the riptape fastening beneath. It gives the illusion of a carefully adjusted buckle while allowing you to simply slip them on and head out the door in seconds. Finished with a soft leather lining, Embrace feels every bit as luxurious as it looks.
The Revo
Already proving itself as a standout style this season, Revo combines softness, practicality and elevated detailing beautifully. The powder blue heaven kork colourway feels fresh and uplifting for summer, while the premium suede finish gives it a luxurious softness.
Braided layered panels in tonal shades of blue frame the open toe beautifully, adding depth and interest to the design. Around the ankle, delicate buckle detailing cleverly disguises the easy riptape fastening beneath, meaning no fiddling with complicated straps when you’re trying to leave the house with sun cream covered hands.
Comfort remains central to the design too. Small, elasticated gussets provide additional flexibility and movement, while the thermoplastic rubber sole offers excellent grip with its zig-zag tread pattern, ideal for slippery pavements, busy sightseeing days and everything in between. The subtle wood-effect detailing along the sole gives Revo an effortlessly stylish finish that feels easy to dress up or down. Try pairing these sandals with a crisp white cotton dress to let the soft blue tones really shine.
The Elspeth
If your summer priorities include saving suitcase space and slipping your sandals on in seconds, Elspeth may become your go-to pair this season. At first glance, they appear to be classic slip-on sandals, but hidden beneath the buckle detailing is discreet riptape fastening that allows for a more adjustable and personalised fit. It’s this combination of convenience and thoughtful design that makes them feel so wearable day after day.
The soft suede upper brings a lighter, more relaxed feel that works perfectly for summer, while the nubuck leather lining offers softness and protection against the foot. Underfoot, the chunky cleated sole adds both stability and contemporary style. With a wearable 3.5cm heel height, Elspeth feels supportive enough for everything from beach walks to airport travel days and evening holiday strolls.
The warm sattel suede shade, a rich burnt tan, feels especially versatile for summer styling. Pair them with colourful florals, relaxed denim shorts or lightweight linen pieces for an effortlessly put-together look.
The Abel
Who says practicality can’t feel bold? Abel proves that riptape sandals can still make a statement. This chunky flatform design brings a confident edge to summer styling, while the leopard print suede keeps things playful, fashion-forward and endlessly wearable.
Animal print returns season after season for good reason; it acts like a neutral while still adding personality to an outfit. Here, the soft suede upper is balanced by supportive open-toe framing around the foot and ankle, creating a sandal that feels secure without looking heavy.
Discreet riptape fastening allows for easy movement and all-day comfort, while the durable polyurethane sole makes Abel especially practical for busy summer days. Style them with simple black pieces to let the leopard print stand out, or pair with denim and butter yellow tones for a softer, holiday-ready feel. For a more considered look, echo the print elsewhere through accessories like a belt, bag or headband.
Early June is the perfect time to invest in the sandals you’ll reach for again throughout the season. Whether you’re heading to the airport, strolling along the coast or simply enjoying a spontaneous evening out in the sunshine, easy-on, easy-off sandals make every plan feel that little bit easier.
Because when the sunshine finally arrives, the last thing you want to think about is uncomfortable shoes.
Get your Gabor summer essentials!
