The Sandal Trend of the Season: Paracord Sandals for 2026

This sandal trend began two years ago, but gained full steam as it rolled into this summer: cord and paracord sandals. These are not the classic rope sandals sold by brands like Nomadic State of Mind; these are sleek styles incorporating paracord. And I gotta say, I am a fan.

What is Paracord?

Paracord is a rope made from a core of threads in a woven nylon jacket. The most famous paracord is “550” which means it can hold 550 lbs and is often used for rock climbing, camping, military, and tactical situations. The nylon jacket is available in a range of colors, making it also popular for crafting.

The paracord trend in fashion started a few years ago, when bags began having straps made from the nylon rope. When the bag charm trend was hot, many charms incorporated paracord. It was a natural progression to have the “Gorpcore” trend of Tevas and Salomons in recent years progress into paracord sandals.

The Sandal Trend of the Season

Last summer everyone from Miu Miu to Sperry carried paracord sandals. The trend has continued with high-end labels like Prada, and again Miu Miu carrying versions to budget brands like Old Navy and ASOS. From chunky versions by Melissa to downright elegant options from Veronica Beard, leather-infused options from Freda Salvador and sleek thong options at Madewell, the paracord sandal trend is everywhere this summer.

Shop the Collage: Old Navy | Madewell | Sperry | Veronica Beard | XERO SHOES at Nordstrom | FLO at Alex Mill | Miu Miu at Nordstrom

I am not one to jump on every trend, but this sandal trend is appealing to me. After so many summers of fisherman, lug sole, and Birkenstock sandals, this delicate yet still sporty option feels fresh. I especially like the version with red paracord; it has enough of that utilitarian feel and also makes the perfect pop of color that goes with everything. Wouldn't the ones in the collage above look great with a denim or chambray? Linen in neutrals like tan, white, navy, and olive? A classic pair of khaki chinos?

Lightweight yet rugged, this is a sandal that can go from boardshorts on a kayak in the morning to a poplin sundress and dinner in the evening. They look stellar peeking out of wide-leg linen trousers and sun-washed vintage jeans, quick-dry joggers and chino shorts, viscose midi skirts and UPF skorts. So simple, they can be shoved into the last bit of space in your luggage and be a welcome change from hot sneakers and heels on your next getaway.

Shop the Collage: Freda Salvador | RAYE at Revolve | Flwze at Revolve | FLO at Alex Mill | ASOS | Melissa | Sperry

If not red, I appreciate the versions in brown, black, and navy that from a glance look pretty traditional, but up close have that “tactical” vibe that is so hot this decade. From gladiator-inspired lacings up the ankle to small little charms to add a fun touch, neutrals are never boring when it comes to paracord sandals.

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In 2026, along with seeing paracord straps on sandals, paracord is replacing traditional shoe laces in boat shoes and sneakers. Paracord bracelets, knotted and/or decorated with beads have come back in fashion. Paracord details on bags continues to be trendy, and this is a trend, that if you like, can easily be DIY-ed. In 2023 for example, using YouTube tutorials, I made a paracord strap for my vintage Balenciaga City Bag.

While I don't think I'll be crafting my own paracord sandals any time soon, I do think adding paracord laces to shoes is a fun and colorful way to jazz up your existing footwear collection and it's very easy to DIY a paracord bracelet to add to your mix of metals and beads.