Sandals · US
Original Universal
As a foundational sport sandal, the Original Universal is a key player in the 'Outdoor & Sporty Hybrids' trend. Its retro, utilitarian aesthetic also taps into the '90s nostalgia driving the 'Nostalgic Platforms & Jellies' theme.
Product signals
- Brand
- Teva
- Source
- brand_models
- Key features
- Hook-and-loop closure · Durable polyester webbing upper · EVA foam footbed
- Source mentions
- Vogue, Elle, Who What Wear, WGSN
Specification variants
2 static directions are available for this theme.
value-oriented
Essential Webbing Sandal
- Upper Material
- Standard polyester webbing straps
- Strapping System
- 3-point adjustable strapping with hook-and-loop closures
- Strap Features
- Unpadded, quick-drying
- Closure Type
- Plastic hook-and-loop
- Midsole Material
- Single-density molded EVA foam
- Footbed
- Lightly textured, flat profile EVA
- Outsole Material
- Lightweight TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) with a basic wave tread pattern
- Construction
- Cemented, vegan-friendly materials
- Heel Height
- ~0.75 inches
- Weight (per pair)
- ~9 oz / 255 g
Differentiation is primarily achieved through cost-reduction to target the value-oriented segment. This involves using standard polyester webbing instead of premium recycled materials and forgoing anti-odor treatments. The midsole is a single-density EVA, simplifying the construction compared to the dual-density reference product. The outsole uses TPR, a more economical alternative to denser rubber, which also reduces weight. The product can be offered in a wide array of bright, solid colors to appeal to a younger, trend-driven demographic that prioritizes aesthetics and price over technical features.
mid-tier
Cushioned Suede-Trim Sport Sandal
- Upper Material
- Recycled polyester webbing with genuine suede trim accents
- Strapping System
- Universal strapping design with 3 points of adjustment
- Strap Features
- Soft neoprene padding underneath straps for enhanced comfort
- Closure Type
- High-quality hook-and-loop with a molded pull-tab
- Midsole Material
- Dual-density, compression-molded EVA for superior cushioning
- Footbed
- Anatomically contoured EVA footbed with a microfiber top layer and moderate arch support
- Outsole Material
- Durable, high-traction rubber with a multi-directional lug pattern
- Construction
- Mixed-material construction, cemented
- Heel Height
- ~1.0 inch
- Weight (per pair)
- ~13 oz / 368 g
This product differentiates by focusing on enhanced comfort and elevated materials. The introduction of soft neoprene padding and a microfiber-lined, contoured footbed provides a noticeably plusher feel. Suede trim on the straps adds a premium, textural contrast, moving the aesthetic towards a more refined, style-conscious space. The outsole is upgraded to a more durable rubber with a more aggressive tread, offering improved performance and longevity. This positions the sandal as a more robust and comfortable version of the classic, justifying a mid-tier price point.