Marlie Langer | Head Editor
May 26, 2026
With the weather warming up, students all over Southern California are turning to their favorite shoes just waiting to be worn again. From high schools to college campuses, flip flops of all kinds have had a resurgence across Southern California. A pair of Rainbow Sandals can be spotted from a mile away: their classic leather look and unique straps make them unbeatable in the flip flop game.
What started out of a garage in Laguna Beach became a multi-million dollar company that produces over 2 million hand-made sandals a year with quality like no other. The first ever Rainbow Sandals commercial store can be found right here within San Clemente. With their localized feel and incredible fit, Rainbows are an irresistible buy.
Some students have claimed feeling uncomfortable with having their feet out in the open at school, but once you try a pair of Rainbows, you’ll never want to take them off! The leather shoe molds to your feet over time as you progressively wear them more and more. As a Rainbow Sandals wearer myself, I must say no shoes have ever fit me this well. From kids to adults, Rainbow Sandals has a shoe for any occasion. Looking for a casual shoe to wear any day? The original sandals are the way to go. Looking for something warm and comfy? Check out their snugs and loafers. Looking for a dressier shoe that still provides comfort? You have to check out the wedges– some even have crystals on the strap for a little extra sparkle! With Rainbow Sandals, it’s impossible to go wrong. Senior at San Clemente High School Ellie Martin described how her Rainbows “go with all [her] outfits” and humorously commented on her liking how they make a “flip flop noise” as she walks.
Although flip flops are nothing new, students and kids all across Southern California have started to wear nothing but Rainbows. No matter if the sun is shining or the clouds are covering up the heat, students can be caught wearing flip flops day in and day out. These shoes can be best paired with whatever your heart desires. Typically worn with jeans and some sort of t-shirt, flip flops are the way to go. Junior at San Clemente High School Grace Baker excitedly described how she “wears flip flops to school every day” and that she chooses her Rainbows over every other cute pair of shoes she has. Baker is just one of the many students who can’t resist wearing the iconic Rainbow Sandals to school and countless other events.
Even when a pair of Rainbows seems like they’re seeing the end of their days, there’s a place better than the dump for them to retire to. Owner Jay Longley, better known as “Sparky,” asks for flip flops that are no longer in use or are very beat up to personally repair and redistribute to those in need. Even if the sole is fully disconnected from the base of the sandal or the straps are long gone, Sparky will restore any shoe repairable. Sparky has dedicated his career to the people by making stupendously amazing quality shoes and taking care of those who cannot afford to take care of themselves. If there has ever been a reason to buy Rainbow Sandals other than their great quality, Sparky’s generous personality takes first place.
Rainbow Sandals are more than just a trend among high school students. Rainbow Sandals come from a man full of heart and dedication to ensure the best flip flops are given even better purposes.
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