SQUIRREL_13263172
Three Things To Know:
- FitFlop is a brand known for comfort - Designed with biomechanical support in mind, if you value arch support and cushioning, they deliver
- Adjustability is a win - Two Velcro straps let you dial in the fit, especially useful in warmer weather when feet swell
- Not an eco-leader (yet) - While FitFlop is making some progress, this model isn’t part of their more sustainable lines
Our Rating:
First Impressions and Fit
Comfort and Support
Grip and Traction
Build Quality and Materials
I’ve always appreciated FitFlop for striking a solid balance between style and comfort, so I was excited to try the GEN-FF Adjustable Webbing/Leather Back-Strap Sandals. FitFlop is known for their biomechanically engineered footwear that aims to reduce foot fatigue without sacrificing looks, and these sandals definitely carry that reputation forward.
From the moment I slipped them on, I could tell they were designed for all-day wear, perfect for city strolls or casual summer outings where I want both support and breathability. Here’s how they held up in my tests.
- RRP: £80.00
- Weight: 250g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Polyester webbing nylon
- Sole: Slip-resistant rubber
- Fastening: Adjustable hook-and-loop straps
First Impressions and Fit
Straight out of the box I loved the way these Fit Flop sandals looked. I’ve had a couple of pairs of Fit Flop shoes over the years and I’m always impressed at the balance struck between style and functionality.
They felt snug but not tight when I first put them on, and the double adjustable straps made them easy to fit to my specific feet. They feel supportive without being stiff and no break in period was needed.
After a few wears, I started to notice an issue with the ankle strap. I don’t have especially narrow ankles, but to get the fit secure enough, I had to pull the strap almost to its limit. That left a lot of excess material flapping around, and because there’s less Velcro making contact, the fit feels a bit compromised.
Comfort and Support
The chunky sole is incredibly comfortable and these sandals have been granted the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for footwear found to promote good foot health. They’re ergonomically engineered to help optimise your body’s alignment and the light, pressure-defusing Microwobbleboard midsole and triple-density cushioning follow three footstep stages – firm heel/soft middle/medium at the toes.
My feet didn’t slip around in the sandals while walking over grassy and rocky ground, or on city streets, and the adjustable straps were cushioned enough to not rub. The ankle strap also has extra cushioning which helps the sandals feel more secure and comfortable, especially in an area prone to blisters.
While these aren’t designed for rugged hiking, they’re great for everyday walking and casual outings.
Grip and Traction
Fit Flop describes the grip on these sandals as suitable for country paths and light trails, and the grip is surprisingly solid for an everyday sandal.
I wore them on a short forest walk after some rain and on damp urban surfaces and the slip resistance rubber outsole performed well in both wet conditions.
There’s enough traction to keep you stable when you're rushing through a station or walking downhill on uneven ground. What helps is that the base feels quite firm and structured underfoot, not spongy or wobbly like some fashion sandals. So while I wouldn’t take them on technical hikes, for everyday use and light adventures, they offer a reassuring amount of grip.
Build Quality and Durability
Despite their slightly chunky look (which I like) the Fit Flop GEN-FF Adjustable Webbing/Leather Back-Strap Sandals are surprisingly lightweight. In terms of packability, they’re flatter and less bulky than many performance sandals, so they slot into a weekend bag or backpack without taking up too much room.
The combination of soft webbing straps and leather detailing gives them a nice balance between sporty and stylish. The stitching feels secure, and the adjustable back and top straps mean you can fine-tune the fit easily, even if your feet swell a bit in the heat.
They’ve held up well to regular wear, and the materials feel durable enough for everyday summer use, though I wouldn’t rely on them for rugged or wet conditions long term. The adjustability definitely adds to their longevity, being able to tweak the fit keeps them comfortable across different activities.
Value for Money
At £80.00 these sandals aren’t cheap, but they strike a good balance between technical support and style, making them trustworthy and versatile.
Sustainability
The webbing is made from 100% recycled polyester however, these sandals aren’t specifically listed as an eco-product. Fit Flop is taking steps towards a more sustainable business model, and launched an e01 collection made with Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified materials, like recycled PET polyester yarn, reprocessed insole foam, and reused rubber.
Should You Buy It
These sandals strike a good balance between style and substance, a great option for anyone wanting a technical walking sandal that looks good enough to wear all the time.
Find more in our guide to the best walking sandals.
SQUIRREL_13263172
Never Miss a Review
Sign up to our free Tried & Tested newsletter for the latest product recommendations straight from the trails.
