A sandal can look right in a photo and still feel different on the foot. A strap can sit too far forward, an adjustment buckle can be hard to reach, or a sole change can alter the fit. For footwear brands and wholesale buyers, a clear sampling brief gives the supplier a practical way to check these details before bulk production.
If you’re still choosing a reference style, browse our men’s sandals and women’s sandals collections and include any styles you like in your sampling brief.
1. Identify the Reference for Each Detail
Start with a physical sample, a sketch, or clear photos from the top, side, and bottom. Mark which details you want to carry over and which ones you want to change. Include the sample size and note whether the reference is for appearance, fit, or both.
If you like the upper on one sandal and the sole on another, label each reference separately. Ask your supplier to check whether the two can work together before sampling begins.
2. Give Strap Measurements with a Starting Point
For sandals with heel straps, record the strap width and length, attachment positions, and hardware placement. Mark the start and end points on a photo so both teams measure the same section.
The same rule applies to revisions. “Shorten the heel strap by 10 mm” can be interpreted differently if two samples already exist. A clearer instruction is “Shorten the heel strap on Sample 2 by 10 mm between the marked stitching points.” Include the target finished measurement if you have it.
3. Confirm the Outsole and Branding Early
Ask whether an existing outsole is available in your target size range and whether it works with the upper you want. If the outsole shape, tread, or molded logo is part of the design, confirm whether the change requires new tooling and how that affects the sample schedule.
For branding, share a vector logo file and specify its dimensions, placement, and color. If you want a molded logo, confirm its size before tooling starts. A change after the mold is made may require rework.
4. Check the Sample on the Foot
Have someone who normally wears the sample size walk in the sandals. Check where the upper sits, whether the heel strap stays in place, and whether any stitching or hardware rubs. For adjustable styles, check how much room remains to tighten or loosen the strap.
Send your feedback in one list, with a photo and a measurement where possible. For example, mark where the strap presses against the foot and show where you want it to sit. Keep a record of which sample version each comment refers to.
5. Record What You Approve for Production
Before approving a pre-production sample, check it against the agreed specifications. Include the materials, colors, strap dimensions, hardware, logo, size range, and packaging. If you approve one detail from an earlier sample, record it explicitly so the production team knows which version to follow.
Developing a Custom Sandal with ROWOO
ROWOO works with footwear brands and wholesale buyers on OEM and ODM sandal projects. To discuss your design, contact ROWOO with your reference photos or sample, target quantity, size range, and the details you want to customize.