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Rainbow Sandals
Handcrafted in San Clemente since 1974, Rainbow Sandals are the leather sandals that surfers, lifeguards, and beach lovers swear by. Every pair is triple-glued by hand and built to mold to your feet over time. We carry single layer and double layer styles for men and women, all in premium leather that only gets better with wear.
Your Guide to Rainbow Sandals
Rainbow Sandals look simple, but there's real craftsmanship in every pair. Founder Jay "Sparky" Longley started making them in his Laguna Beach garage in the early '70s, and the brand still hand-builds each sandal with specially formulated memory rubber that molds to the shape of your foot. Here's what to know before you pick your pair.
Single Layer vs. Double Layer
The single layer is the classic Rainbow, thin and flexible with a broken-in feel that comes faster. It sits lower to the ground and works well if you like a minimal sandal. The double layer adds a second tier of arch support and cushioning, which makes a noticeable difference if you're on your feet all day. Most people who try the double layer don't go back.
Care & Longevity
Leather Rainbows can last years if you treat them right. Keep them out of prolonged direct sun and heat, which can dry the leather and weaken the glue. If they get dirty, wipe them down with a damp cloth and let them air dry. Rainbow also runs a repair program where you can send in worn pairs to be rebuilt, plus a recycling program that gives you a discount on your next pair.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Rainbow Sandals
How do I size Rainbow Sandals?
Rainbow uses a Small, Medium, Large, XL system instead of standard shoe sizes. The best way to find your size is to measure a pair of sandals you already own and compare the length to Rainbow's size chart. Your foot should sit fully on the footbed without your heel or toes hanging over the edge. If you're between sizes, most people find that going with the larger size works better since the leather stretches and conforms as you wear them.
How long do Rainbow Sandals take to break in?
Expect about two weeks of regular wear before they start to feel comfortable. The leather straps and footbed need time to soften and mold to the shape of your foot. You can speed up the process by wearing them with socks for the first few days, or by wedging a water bottle under the straps overnight to pre-stretch them. Once they break in, they feel like a completely different sandal.
Are Rainbow Sandals worth the price?
Compared to a foam flip flop from the drugstore, Rainbows cost more upfront. But the leather construction and triple-glued layers mean they last significantly longer, often several years of daily wear. The memory rubber footbed molds to your feet over time, so the comfort actually improves the longer you own them. Factor in Rainbow's repair program and they become one of the better values in sandals.
