The "dad shoe" phenomenon, once a punchline of mid-century suburban utility, has matured into a sophisticated design language that prioritizes functional versatility. New Balance’s Kave sandal, originally introduced in 2025, represents the latest iteration of this shift—a hybrid silhouette designed to navigate the increasingly porous boundary between the hiking trail and the city street.
Constructed with a layered mesh and leather upper, the Kave maintains the structural integrity of a traditional sneaker while embracing the breathability of a sandal. Its most pragmatic feature, however, lies beneath the foot: a chunky sole equipped with integrated drainage holes. While ostensibly designed for river crossings, these channels serve as a nod to the unpredictability of urban environments, ensuring that the wearer remains unburdened by the elements.
Currently an overseas exclusive, the Kave’s re-emergence for the 2026 season in muted tones of brown, black, and silver underscores a broader trend in footwear. As consumers move away from specialized gear toward "everyday" equipment, brands are responding with designs that are as capable on a casual stroll as they are in the wild. The model is currently available via New Balance Korea for approximately $100.
With reporting from Highsnobiety.
Source · Highsnobiety
