Meet the Brand That’s Coining “Shandals” – What’s New From Aetrex This Fall
If you’ve ever tried on a pair of Aetrex and felt like the arch support was sitting in a weird spot, we have some good news: it’s not a mistake. It’s science.
We caught up with Jon Noriega from Aetrex on the show floor in Des Moines, and if there’s one brand that leads with data over trends, it’s this one. Aetrex has spent over 25 years figuring out exactly what a foot needs — and scanning more than a million feet per year. That’s not a marketing line; it’s the whole business.
The Tech Behind the Fit
Aetrex’s patented arch support is placed further back than most people expect, directly targeting the subtalar joint. It looks unusual until you understand what it’s doing: relieving pressure associated with plantar fasciitis. Jon put it simply — customers sometimes assume the arch is “in the wrong place” when it isn’t pre-fitted correctly. Once it is, he says about eight out of ten customers become believers.
That fitting starts with Albert 2, Aetrex’s in-house scanning device, which the brand calls the most accurate foot-measuring technology available — precise to one millimeter. Many of our Brown’s Shoe Fit locations have an Albert scanner on the sales floor, so reach out to your local Brown’s Shoe Fit about trying it out.
The Albert 2 is not just an in-store gimmick, either. Aetrex has used that scanning data to collaborate with brands like Ecco, Nike, and Bauer on perfect-fit footwear.
Beyond footwear, Aetrex also carries a full line of orthotics built on that same scanning data — everyday, dress, and sport options designed to bring proper arch support to shoes customers already own. It’s worth asking about for anyone who loves their current shoes but not how their feet feel by the end of the day.
The Shoe You Already Know
(Even If You Didn’t Know the Story)
Ask longtime Aetrex customers about the Jillian sandal and you’ll get a reaction of recognition. It’s one of the brand’s original styles, and its patented front strap includes what Jon calls a “bunion pocket” — a small design detail that makes a big difference for anyone who’s struggled to find sandals that don’t press on that spot. It’s one of those features that retailers know about but customers might miss.
What’s Hot for Fall
This fall, Aetrex is rounding out its lineup with a mix of sneakers, a Mary Jane, and its laser-cut shoe-sandal hybrid — proof that comfort technology doesn’t have to mean just one silhouette. Four styles are worth watching:
Style |
What Makes It Stand Out |
|---|---|
Charlotte |
A laser-cut shoe-sandal hybrid, best worn without socks. Jon gave it (and its category) a name on the spot: “shandals.” |
Sloane |
A sleek leather lace-up sneaker with subtle stud embellishments — an everyday silhouette dressed up just enough to feel current, built on Aetrex’s full arch support and cushioning system. |
Tess |
Sloane’s classic-sneaker sibling, with the same premium leather upper and stud detailing in a timeless lace-up build — a secure, versatile everyday fit. |
Haley |
A leather Mary Jane with an adjustable hook-and-loop strap for a personalized fit — timeless style that still delivers Aetrex’s full cushioning and arch support underfoot. |
 “Write that down! Jon Noriega from Aetrex is coining the phrase shandals, shoe sandals.”
— Jon Noriega, Aetrex
Consider that trademarked in spirit, if not on paper.
More Best Sellers to Know
In addition to the classic Jillian, Aetrex offers a variety of cute yet supportive sandals, including the Sydney and the Ashley, both of which are stylish yet supportive. Realistically, fall isn’t sandal season for most of our communities, but it’s never too early to buy your new favorite pair for next summer.
Here are a few more Aetrex best sellers worth having — Sydney and Ashley are included, but we’re also highlighting some boots and sneakers that our customers are more likely to reach for this time of year:
Style |
What Makes It Stand Out |
|---|---|
Kaylee |
A weatherproof leather Chelsea boot with a stretchy twin gore for easy on-and-off — built-in arch support meets an everyday silhouette that works for work, travel, or just running errands. |
Cammie |
A cozy knit sweater boot that’s become a cold-weather favorite, with the Aetrex Orthotic System built right into the footbed for arch support on the coziest days of the year. |
Carly Sparkle |
A lightweight knit sneaker with rhinestone embellishment, built on the same pressure-relief cushioning as the classic Carly — a fun option for customers who want a little sparkle without giving up support. |
Danika |
A breathable mesh sneaker with thick UltraSky cushioning and a padded collar and tongue — an easy everyday recommendation for customers who live in their sneakers. |
Sydney |
A wedge sandal that’s become one of Aetrex’s top two sellers, prized for its cork footbed and all-day comfort in a dressier silhouette. |
Ashley |
A jute-wrapped wedge with clean, everyday coverage — an easy recommendation for customers who want the Sydney’s comfort with a simpler look. |
Boots, sneakers, or sandals, these are all proven favorites rather than something brand-new — a good list to keep in mind if you’re not sure where to start. Fun Fact: the Aetrex Cammie is actually named after current Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. President, Cammie McKenzie.
Who’s Actually Wearing Aetrex
The traditional Aetrex customer is 35 to 70, but the brand is quietly picking up younger fans through more youthful colors and silhouettes each season. Jon mentioned his 16-year-old niece in California as an example — someone who wouldn’t fit the “classic” Aetrex profile on paper but genuinely loves the shoes.
Why Buy Yours From Brown’s Shoe Fit Co.?
With 73 locally owned and operated locations across the Midwest, Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. has been a trusted name in footwear since 1911. Known for our personalized service and commitment to quality, Brown’s Shoe Fit is the go-to destination for comfortable, quality footwear for all ages. Each of our stores offers a footwear selection unique to the needs of our communities, with a knowledgeable staff trained to give every customer the best fit possible. To learn more about us, visit brownsshoefitco.com or find a store near you!
