Pacific Avenue: Brown

This is my second pair of Shammas - my first were the Elite Maximus with the leather footbed. I love those sandals for the customization of the elite lacing system and the comfort of the leather footbed. But these Pacific Avenue Browns are just luxurious with the all-leather feel I would describe it as as my elite maximus being a toyota 4runner and my pacific avenue browns are a lexus SUV. Different use cases, both just great quality sandals. For reference, I live in a big city, so walking around concrete most of the day. No brand has quality close to this. Tried Bedrock, too stiff, those are just sitting in my closet.

The quality is rock solid with these sandals. The leather feels and looks great, the stitching is nice. I enjoy the ease of stepping into the sandals and can wear them for hours without the clammy feeling all synthetic sandals create within minutes. They were comfortable immediately, but are gradually breaking in. That little bit of elastic that allows the front to "self adjust" is brilliantly simple and totally works.

It's interesting to me that the brand seems to almost be making a sacrifice of their values to make such a "thick" flip flop styled sandal...at least the way they talk about the model. But this is a fantastic sandal by any standard, is totally flexible and in my opinion provides just the right balance of feedback and protection. For reference, I walk mostly on concrete sidewalks with occasional "off road" side tracks. I feel like I'm barefoot in terms of mechanics, but protected and even a little spoiled with the excellent leather footbed. I am enjoying a return to "barefoot" footwear after some time away from it, and the Pacific Avenue sandals are star of the show.

If I could change anything, I would maybe take that thickest middle layer of foam in the footbed--which is very very firm--and give it just a touch more give. These would be transcendently comfortable with a hint of softness and wouldn't lose their minimal appeal. As it is, they are only really excellent. LOL.

I think I saw a communication recently indicating this sandal might be leaving the catalog? I hope I'm wrong. If true, then grab these while you can!

Sandals are comfortable, flexible and a good fit right out of the box. I have only worn them a few times but so far so good. I used the sizing guide and it seemed to be accurate.
I liked the style based on pictures on website and again those seemed accurate. Only reason I am giving it a 4 is that they haven’t become my “go-to” shoe yet. Only time will tell if they do.

Im not super familiar with other brands but this seems sturdy and well made. Its also super comfortable, despite its thin profile. I wore these around Disneyland for a few hours no problem. The reason for 4/5 stars is because theres some elastic band that adjusts so it hugs your foot and Im not sure how thatll hold up with time compared to the leather and sole.

Ive NEVER had a barefoot sandal that fits ok the foot like a shamma, and I’ve tried a bunch. Fitted to the foot like a second skin, impeccable and UNBEATABLE style with the Pacific Ave — people who are not even barefoot enthusiasts are complementing them, noticing how well constructed, sturdy/robust (without being clunky) and just all around good looking they are. The leather is super soft and they are indeed a breeze to get in and out of. My size fits me just right and I ordered my usual size, although I recommend as always measuring your foot and comparing with the chart. I’m also loving the sole thickness as at first I thought the Pac Ave Brown soles would feel thick, but they are in fact perfect, giving that perfect amount of protection from the ground while still providing ground feel. It really adds to the “naturalness” of the sandal itself — the profile reads as a fancy leather flipflop. Shamma, I praise you!! Thank you for making an actually robust GOOD LOOKING luxurious sandal that can go anywhere from vacation to fancy events. I LOVE!!