Footwear Plus Shoesday Tuesdays: Dansko on ‘Snog’ Alert

Part clog, part sneaker and undoubtedly Dansko, the Sanibel collection is well on its way to becoming the largest spring launch in the company’s 20-year history. The “snog” hybrids are Dansko’s first foray into vulcanized footwear and are instantly recognizable as an extension of the brand, says David Murphy, Dansko’s executive vice president of sales and marketing. “It has a clog-inspired silhouette and provides the wearer with the same slope as our clogs,” he explains. Sanibel styles are 25-percent lighter than Dansko’s traditional clog and have non-slip rubber outsoles—a feature Murphy says lends the slip-on Volley wearability both in and out of the workplace. Other styles include the Veda, a youthful lace-up oxford for women, and a colorful slip-on for kids with a gore inset for great fit and support.

The line is offered in softly textured nubuck leather with a velvety touch in a range of colors and prints that complement a summer wardrobe of chinos and jeans, Murphy adds. Colors include washed blue, red, green, orchid and sand, as well as three tropical floral prints and basic black and white leather. The Veda is also available in preppy rose or blue madras plaid.

Murphy says initial feedback from retailers has been outstanding. Several major accounts have already booked significant orders and plan to position the line as a perfect warmer weather companion to the brand’s popular Sausalito sandal program. “Retailers perceive Sanibel as a fresh, fashion-right extension of the Dansko line,” he says. Retail prices range from $70 to $90.