Summer is upon us in the Northern Hemisphere and the footwear industry is responding with a range of new models for the season. While there is a wide degree of variety on offer in terms of designs, colours, and materials, the focus for footwear this summer is very much on comfort. This is with a particular emphasis on breathable designs, both in terms of uppers and soles, to allow customers to make their way through the warmer months in comfort..
**Footwear industry focuses on summer comfort**.
Footwear industry players have taken different approaches to the comfort trend. Some, such as Mephisto, are focusing on the technical aspects of design. The Franco-German brand has applied its patented Soft-Air Technology to a new range of summer sandals to ensure a soft and comfortable step..
Others, such as Trippen, are taking a more holistic approach, looking beyond the shoes themselves to the wider environment in which they are worn. The German brand favours the use of natural materials and production processes which favour sustainability. This is exemplified by the fact that Trippen favours the use of vegetable-tanned leather and water-based glues in the creation of its shoes..
**Colour palettes reflect the season**.
Another trend to watch this summer is the use of colour. Footwear designers have responded to the season with a range of bright and vibrant colour palettes, with light pastel tones and bold neon shades dominating..
At Kennel & Schmenger, the focus is on pastels, with the German brand favouring classic summery shades including light pink and green. Kennel & Schmenger has also introduced a new range of iridescent leather sandals and sneakers, designed to reflect light and draw the eye..
Other brands are opting for bolder, more eye-catching colour palettes. The latest collection from Neous, for example, features a range of fluorescent pink, yellow, and green sandals and slides, while footwear from Melissa is available in a range of neon green, orange, and yellow..
**Transparency and sustainability remain key**.
Alongside the focus on comfort and colour, the footwear industry continues to prioritise transparency and sustainability. Veja, the French brand known for its eco-friendly credentials, has expanded its range of Veja Marlin sneakers with a new model made from organic cotton and wild rubber from the Amazon rainforest. Veja is also continuing its partnership with AB3TC, a social business which provides jobs for disadvantaged people in Brazil..
Other brands are also striving to reduce their environmental impact. Gabor, for example, has introduced a new range of sustainable shoes made from chrome-free leather and recycled materials. The German brand has also reduced its use of packaging and promotes sustainable production methods..
**Technological innovations shape the future of footwear**.
Alongside the summer trends, the footwear industry is also investing in technological innovations to shape the future of the sector. Puma, for example, has introduced a new range of self-lacing sneakers, while Nike has unveiled a new range of running shoes with built-in GPS tracking..
Other brands are looking to technology to improve the customer experience. Zara, for example, has launched a new app which allows customers to virtually try on shoes before they buy them. Salvatore Ferragamo, meanwhile, has introduced a new AI-powered chatbot which provides customers with personalised styling advice..
These are just a few of the trends to watch in the footwear industry this summer. With a focus on comfort, colour, transparency, sustainability, and technology, the industry is responding to the needs of consumers and shaping the future of footwear..
