While the mesh sneaker — dressed up or down — may be a standard for warm weather, not all mesh shoes are created equal. Many are insufficient over the long haul, lacking the support or durability required to perform in a multitude of situations. Simply put, a mesh sneaker has to keep up with your active lifestyle.
The island-minded brand OluKai understands the need for versatile footwear better than most, looking to the Hawaiian word Alapa Li (ah-lah-pah lee) for the inspiration of its new namesake shoe. Roughly translating to active, OluKai’s dedication to products that honor the Island lifestyle is ever-present in the stylish, lightweight Alapa Li: It’s waterproof, supportive and versatile.
An upper made of breathable air mesh and waterproof, full-grain leather accents ensure the Alapa Li can excel wet or dry. So, if you’re caught in a rainstorm or find yourself heading to the beach, you won’t have to switch kicks. And you’ll look good throughout it all with the natural two-tone or solid colored mesh styling. Plus, the anti-microbial, moisture-wicking lining will keep your feet feeling at ease in pretty much any circumstance.
The footbed also helps your feet stay cool and dry with a soft, moisture-wicking textile cover. And the insole provides next level comfort — like all of OluKai’s anatomically contoured footbeds, which are molded after the supple sensation of bare feet in wet sand. Made from a lightweight and resilient single-density poured polyurethane, the Alapa Li’s footbed is designed to keep you feeling stable while on any terrain whether it’s sand, rocks or asphalt.
That superior cushioning is further supplemented by a compression molded EVA midsole. The outsole then offers a non-marking, wet grip rubber with siping for added traction on wet surfaces. Of course, the Alapa Li is made even more versatile with OluKai’s patented Drop-In Heel design. This allows for both shoe and slide functionality, depending on what the occasion calls for. To top it off, elastic laces further provide the ability to go anywhere at a moment’s notice.
While the Alapa Li might not transport you to the Hawaiian islands, it is more than capable in any place or situation you find yourself in need of a casual pair of shoes. Whether that’s on a tropical vacation or just running errands after work, the Alapa Li can do it all and keep you looking good and on your feet in the warmer months ahead.