In New Zealand, we don't say flip-flops or thongs. We say jandals. It’s a word that means more than just a piece of simple, open-toed footwear; it's the heart and sole of our relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. They're an undisputed Kiwi footwear staple, essential for any summer day at the beach or a classic backyard barbie.
The Unofficial Footwear of a Kiwi Summer
Picture a perfect Kiwi summer day. The sizzle of the barbecue, the sound of waves crashing at Wainui Beach, the feeling of sun on your skin. What’s on everyone’s feet? It has to be jandals. This humble bit of footwear is deeply woven into our national identity, a true symbol of our laid-back culture.
But jandals aren't just for summer; they're a year-round essential for Kiwis. Here at Blitz Surf Shop, we celebrate this national icon by keeping a wide range of jandals in stock year round. We get it—the perfect pair isn't a seasonal want, it's a constant need, whether you're heading to the beach in January or escaping to the tropics in July.
From Beach Staple to Style Statement
The world of jandals has come a long way from the basic rubber models of the past. Today, you'll find an incredible variety from the world's top surf and lifestyle brands, with each one putting their own unique spin on this classic design.
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Havaianas: These are legendary for their bright colours and famously durable rubber, like the classic Havaianas Slim Basic models.
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Reef Brasil: Renowned for next-level comfort and quality, especially their innovative Cushion and Fanning ranges that feel amazing underfoot.
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Quiksilver & Rip Curl: These surf giants deliver rugged, beach-ready designs built tough enough to handle a post-surf rinse-off, day after day.
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Roxy, Billabong & Kustom: These brands have masterfully blended their surf heritage with modern style, offering fashionable and functional options for everyone.
This evolution from a simple "Japanese sandal" into such a diverse category of footwear just goes to show how much jandals have become a fundamental part of our daily lives.
The Surprising Story Behind the Word Jandal
Ever wondered where the name ‘jandal’ actually came from? It’s a classic Kiwi story. While the footwear style has been around for centuries, the word we all use was trademarked right here in New Zealand in 1957. The history of the word jandal in NZ is that it’s a clever mash-up of "Japanese sandal," a nod to the post-war footwear designs that inspired the modern version.
But that simple name did more than just describe a new product; it captured a whole vibe. As jandals took off, they went from being just practical shoes to a symbol of our chilled-out, outdoor-focused way of life. They’re the official sound of summer, what you chuck on for a quick trip to the dairy, and a non-negotiable part of our national uniform.
What’s in a Name?
The word ‘jandal’ is so uniquely New Zealand that you often have to explain it when you’re travelling. That little word sets us apart and shows just how ingrained this simple piece of footwear is in our day-to-day lives.
Head overseas, and you'll hear them called all sorts of things:
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Flip-flops: The go-to term in the US and the UK.
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Thongs: What our Aussie neighbours call them.
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Slippers: A name you might hear over in Hawaii.
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Plakkies: The word they use down in South Africa.
This little trip through language shows how we took a global item and stamped it with our own distinct Kiwi identity—something we’re pretty good at. If you're interested in how local traditions shape who we are, check out our guide on the significance of traditional Māori clothing and its cultural importance.
This evolution from a functional "Japanese sandal" into a Kiwi cultural icon is a perfect example of how everyday objects can take on deeper meaning. The jandal isn't just footwear; it's a piece of New Zealand's story.
From those humble beginnings, the jandal has become a canvas for surf and fashion brands to put their own stamp on. Big names like Havaianas, Quiksilver, Rip Curl, Roxy, Billabong, and Kustom have all put their spin on this classic. Here at Blitz, we celebrate that heritage by keeping a full range of jandals in stock all year round, so you're always ready for whatever comes your way.
A Guide to the Best Jandal Brands
Let's be honest, not all jandals are created equal. We’ve all been there—you buy a cheap pair for summer, and they barely survive past New Year's. Choosing the right brand is the difference between a single-season fling and a pair that becomes your trusty go-to for years. At Blitz Surf Shop, we're pretty selective. We only stock brands that deliver on quality, comfort, and style, so you know you’re getting the good stuff.
Icons of the Jandal World
When it comes to the best jandal brands, a few names always rise to the top. These are the legends that have perfected the art of the jandal, mixing surf culture with genuine innovation.
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Havaianas: The Brazilian powerhouse. Famous for their insane colour range and ridiculously durable rubber, a pair of Havaianas is a timeless classic you just can't go wrong with.
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Rip Curl & Quiksilver: These surf giants make rugged, no-nonsense jandals. They're built to handle sand, salt, and sun—perfect for the proper coastal lifestyle.
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Billabong, Roxy & Kustom: These brands have nailed the sweet spot between function and fashion. You can find everything from simple, comfy styles like the women's Kick Back jandals to more trend-focused designs.
The Reef Brasil Revolution
And then there’s Reef Brasil. These guys have completely changed the game, setting a new standard for what a jandal can be in terms of comfort, quality, and style.
For the women, the Reef Cushion Vista range is going off. This collection has become an absolute sensation, coming in the standard, Hi (platform), and Higher (double platform) versions. They blend stylish vegan leather straps with an unbelievably comfy footbed that has proper anatomical arch support. They are the ultimate mix of beach style and all-day wearability.
For the men, Reef’s lineup is legendary for its quality across the entire range. You’ve got the perennial iconic Reef Fanning jandals, with its 360-degree airbag in the heel and that famous bottle opener on the sole. If you're after something more refined, the premium full-grain leather J-Bay is a class act, while the wider Cushion range delivers next-level comfort across a bunch of different styles that Blitz has in stock.
Reef’s success comes from its ability to deliver superior comfort without ever sacrificing style. They’ve proven that a pair of jandals can be both exceptionally comfortable and a key part of your look.
Because we know jandals are a year-round necessity, not just a summer fling, we keep a full range of these top brands in stock all the time here at Blitz. This means you can always find the perfect pair, whether it’s for a mid-winter escape to the tropics or just gearing up for another glorious Gisborne summer.
Why Everyone Is Talking About Reef Jandals
While classic surf brands like Rip Curl, Quiksilver, and Billabong have been churning out quality jandals for decades, one name consistently pushes the envelope for what a jandal can be: Reef. Born from a genuine love of surf and travel, Reef has become the go-to for anyone who expects more than just a basic bit of rubber for their feet. They’ve absolutely mastered the art of blending sharp style with serious, science-backed comfort.
This dedication is exactly why we keep such a deep range of Reef jandals in stock at Blitz Surf Shop all year round. We see it firsthand—they’ve built a fiercely loyal following among Kiwis who need footwear that can keep up with their active lives. Reef just gets it. They know a jandal isn't just for a quick dash to the beach; it’s for all-day adventures.
A Deeper Look: The Women's Cushion Vista Range
One of Reef's biggest success stories in recent years is the women's Cushion Vista range. This collection has blown up, going from a popular style to a full-blown phenomenon, and it’s pretty easy to see why. The secret is its perfect fusion of elevated, modern style and Reef’s legendary comfort. The straps are made from a premium, buttery-soft vegan leather that feels amazing and looks incredibly chic.
But the real magic is what’s going on under your foot. Every pair is built on a generous footbed made with Reef's signature Cushion foam, complete with proper anatomical arch support and a supportive heel cup. This isn't your flat, unsupportive jandal that leaves your feet aching. This is footwear actually designed for walking.
Recognising that one height doesn't fit all, Reef cleverly expanded the range, and it has been going off:
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Cushion Vista: The original design, offering a subtle lift and a timeless, go-with-everything style.
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Cushion Vista Hi: The platform version that's going off, adding a bit more height for a fashionable, on-trend look.
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Cushion Vista Higher: The double-stacked platform for those wanting to make a serious style statement.
This variety means there's a Cushion Vista for pretty much any outfit and occasion, taking you effortlessly from a casual beach day to a summer evening out.
Legendary Quality in Reef Jandals for Men
Reef’s commitment to quality is just as clear in their men's range, which is stacked with legendary models that have well and truly stood the test of time. These aren’t just jandals; they're icons of surf culture known for their durability and comfort.
The most famous of them all has to be the perennial Reef Fanning. This jandal is celebrated for its incredible comfort, which comes from a 360-degree airbag tucked away in the soft polyurethane heel. It provides amazing cushioning with every single step. And of course, there's its most legendary feature: the church key bottle opener built right into the sole—a true party trick and a nod to Reef’s fun-loving spirit.
Reef’s design philosophy is simple but powerful: combine beach-inspired style with anatomical science. The result is a jandal that not only looks good but genuinely feels good to wear, all day long.
For those who lean towards a more refined look, the J-Bay is a real standout. Crafted from premium, full-grain leather that just gets better and better with age, the J-Bay offers a sophisticated style without skimping on the deep heel cup and arch support Reef is famous for.
Beyond these headliners, the broader men's Cushion range, with models that Blitz has in stock, continues to be a top seller for good reason. It delivers that "walking on a cloud" feeling, making them the perfect all-rounder for everyday wear. This unwavering focus on premium materials, anatomical support, and durable construction is what makes Reef such a cornerstone of our footwear collection here at Blitz.
How to Choose Your Perfect Pair
Ready to find your sole-mate? With so many great jandals out there, going from just browsing to buying with confidence really comes down to nailing three things: fit, function, and form. Get these right, and you'll end up with a pair that not only looks the business but feels fantastic, too.
First up, let’s talk fit. This is completely non-negotiable for comfort. A good fit means your foot sits squarely on the footbed, with just a little bit of room around the entire edge. Your heel should never hang over the back, and your toes shouldn't be jammed up against the front.
Material Matters for Comfort and Longevity
The material of your jandals has a massive impact on how they feel and how long they'll last. Each one has its own vibe depending on what you’re after.
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Classic Rubber: The original and still a crowd favourite. You'll find it in timeless styles like Havaianas. It’s waterproof, tough as, and gives you that classic jandal feel.
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EVA Foam: This stuff is a game-changer for lightweight comfort. Brands like Reef use advanced EVA in their Cushion ranges to make footbeds that are ridiculously soft, bouncy, and great at absorbing shock.
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Premium Leather: For a more refined look that just gets better with age, you really can't beat leather. Certain models like the Reef J-Bay use full-grain leather for a sophisticated style that’s also incredibly durable.
To give you a better idea of how different materials and designs come together, have a look at some of the popular Reef models we stock.
Reef Jandal Models at a Glance
| Model | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fanning | Legendary comfort with a built-in bottle opener in the sole. | Post-surf, BBQs, and everyday casual wear. The ultimate utility jandal. |
| Cushion Vista | Stylish wide straps with an anatomical arch support cushion footbed. | All-day wear, from beach trips to town strolls. |
| Cushion Bounce | High-rebound footbed that provides energy and bounce with every step. | Active days when you need extra spring and comfort. |
| J-Bay | Full-grain premium leather construction. | A smarter look that pairs well with summer evening outfits. |
As you can see, choosing between iconic models like the bottle-opening Fanning and the versatile Cushion Vista often comes down to your main use-case and personal style.
This infographic can also help you decide which Reef jandal is right for you.
Define Your Function
Next, have a think about your ‘function.’ What are you mostly going to be doing in your jandals? Figuring this out is the quickest way to narrow down the huge range of options.
Are you after a simple, rugged pair for rinsing off at the beach after a surf? A basic rubber or EVA pair from Quiksilver or Rip Curl will be spot on. Or do you need something with solid arch support that can handle a full day of walking around town without your feet getting sore? In that case, you’ll want to look towards Reef's anatomically designed Cushion range.
Finding the right pair is all about balance. Think of it like this: your perfect jandals should be as ready for a spontaneous beach trip as they are for a casual summer barbecue, without you ever having to think twice about comfort.
Here at Blitz, we make sure to keep a wide variety of jandals in stock all year round from all the top brands. Whether you need the bottle-opening brilliance of the Reef Fanning or the stylish height of the women's Cushion Vista Hi, we've got a pair ready for every Kiwi lifestyle.
Right, let's talk about something that’s not often mentioned but is surprisingly important: jandal safety.
For all our love of jandals, it's worth knowing about the surprising risks that can come with wearing our favourite footwear. It might sound a bit dramatic, but a little bit of knowledge goes a long way in keeping you safe, whether you’re at the beach or just strolling through Gisborne.
The biggest risks with any pair of jandals are slips, trips, and sprains. These usually happen for a few simple reasons: a poor fit that lets your foot slide around, soles that have been worn down smooth, or a total lack of grip on wet or uneven surfaces. This is exactly why investing in a quality pair of jandals from a trusted brand is so important.
Why Quality Matters More Than You Think
It's pretty shocking, but recent ACC data really highlights how common these mishaps are. Between 2018 and 2022, there were a staggering 4,200 injury claims related to jandals—that's nearly double the 2,500 claims for high heels. This stat shows that while jandals feel safer, their open design and often minimal grip can easily lead to trouble.
This doesn't mean you need to lock your jandals away, though. The fix is straightforward: choose quality and know when it’s time for an upgrade. A well-made pair from brands like Havaianas or Reef offers far better grip and support than the cheap alternatives you might find elsewhere.
The easiest way to stay safe is to retire an old, worn-out pair. Once the tread is gone and the footbed is compressed, you lose the grip and support needed to prevent slips and strains.
Grabbing a durable, well-made pair from the Blitz Surf Shop collection isn't just a style choice; it’s a smart one. By prioritising a proper fit and quality materials, you're making sure your feet are secure, comfortable, and ready for whatever summer adventure comes your way.
So, we've covered the ins and outs of jandals—their history, what makes a good pair, and how to find your perfect match. It’s pretty clear they’re more than just something you chuck on your feet; they’re a non-negotiable part of the Kiwi uniform, all year round.
Here at Blitz Surf Shop, we get it. We live in our jandals. That’s why we make sure we’re stocked up for you through scorching Gisborne summers and those essential mid-winter tropical getaways.
We’ve pulled together a solid lineup from the best brands in the game, so you know you’re always getting quality. Whether you’re after the legendary Reef Fanning, the comfy Cushion Vista, a go-to pair of Havaianas, or something rugged from Rip Curl or Quiksilver, we’ve got your back.
Your One-Stop Jandal Shop
Shopping with us is a breeze, no matter where you are in Aotearoa. Our online store is always on, with NZ-wide delivery and shipping to Australia for clothing and smaller gear. Even better, you'll score free shipping on eligible orders over $150. If you want to know more, you can read up on why Blitz Surf Shop is New Zealand’s go-to online surf store and see how we look after our crew.
At Blitz, we reckon the right pair of jandals can make all the difference. That's why we're committed to not just selling great gear, but giving you the expert advice you need to find that perfect fit.
If you’re kicking around the Gisborne area, we'd love for you to swing by the shop. Our friendly team can talk you through the options, let you compare styles in person, and make sure you walk out with a pair that’ll keep your feet happy. From the beach to the backyard, Blitz has the perfect jandals to sort you out for your next adventure.
Find your next favourite pair of jandals at Blitz Surf Shop and step into comfort and style. Shop our full footwear collection online today!
