Rope sandals are trending, but the pair that made them cool were designed with packing practicalities in mind

Rope sandals are the shoe trend to know this season. They also happen to be the perfect travel companions. But as is often the way with fashion trends, the pair that inspired it all was designed for practicality, not style. Mexican huarache sandals date back over 500 years and proved a durable, comfortable barefoot alternative for long-distance walking and running across the uneven, mountainous terrain of the Cooper Canyons. In 2009, they were made famous by Christopher McDougall’s bestselling book Born to Run. Shortly after, Xero’s Genesis packable sports sandals were created – a running sandal and an alternative to the Xero founder’s desire to run barefoot.

The Genesis packable sports sandals are made with a slim but strong 5mm sole that can be rolled, laid flat or clipped to a bag and feel almost weightless. There are few more practical designs when it comes to packing light, and for hiking trips, walking holidays and outdoor runs in new destinations, they might just be the ultimate summer sandal.

It seems like no coincidence that this rope sandal trend boom goes hand in hand with Instagram’s newfound interest in hiking. The jury’s out on whether a penchant for clambering over rocks came first, and the clothing became cool as a result, or Gorpcore style was the driving force behind a sudden influx of millennials and Gen Z-ers booking an outdoorsy escape to places like the Dolomites and Ibiza. One thing’s certain: rope sandals are no longer just for hiking holidays.

This season, we’ve spotted them on the feet of editors and influencers as they jet across Europe, whether it be to the shores of the best Greek island beaches or the streets of cities like Lisbon and Copenhagen. It would seem rope sandals have overtaken classic flip-flops and strappy Gladiator sandals as this summer’s must-have item, and luxury designer brands are leading the charge. Mui Mui’s riviere cord and leather sandals feature a logo print at the back, a sturdy leather sole and colourful rope straps. A pair like this works both in the city, teamed with Bermuda shorts or a linen midi skirt and a simple white tank top and by the beach with swimwear and a headscarf. Top of my wishlist is the bohemian alternative by Nomadic State of Mind with its chunky rope footbed and wraparound ankle strap. I’d slot them into my carry-on and wear them with printed separates by brands like Bimba y Lola, Farm Rio and Johanna Ortiz for my upcoming trip to Mallorca.

The good news is that whatever your drive (or your budget), there’s a pair of rope sandals to suit. For hiking, running and even just packing light, the Xero Genesis reigns supreme, and for the aesthetic without the ramble, we’ve curated the best of the best in fashion right now.