Tokyo’s RFW collection of basic and simple footwear expands with three excellent sandal options. All are great looks in black, tan, and navy. As they say, “Sophistication is espressed through the use of neat lasts in creating the classic and rustic designs.” Check Rhythm Design for purchasing options.

More views of the RFW Pitta Leather Sandals after the jump.

Raf Simons brings it on Gladiator style with one hell of a collection of sandals for Dr. Martens. You can only expect such design from Raf Simons. Let’s start with the 9 eyelet “Lace Sandal” which is imagined in black and white patent leather. The stitching is finished in Dr. Martens’ red thread for battle wear. The “Buckle” sandal is more toned down with patent and soft leather finish without the dissection of the lace-up. They may not be your choice sandal, but we can guarantee that someone is paying attention to the conceptual design and wearability of these looks. 

More detailed views of the Raf Simons for Dr. Martens Sandals for Spring 2009 after the jump.

Tomato UK is close to my heart. Their work with Underworld not only set a visual tone for the amazing electronic group but also opened my eyes to their stunning design work for the likes of Levis Japan, Citreon, Panasonic, and many others. They recently previewed sample views of their Spring 2009 sandal collaboration with Birkenstock. The classic Papirio is re-imagined with the Tomato love. The Birkenstock Papirio Sandals for Tomato will be available this Spring at Birkenstock’s Tokyo Daikanyama District Shop. (via core77)

Another view of the Birkenstock Papirio Sandals for Tomato after the jump.

The looks is leather. No doubt about that. The application is a merge of classic Souther European sandals with a very West Coast Americana skateboard. I would fear strapping into this thing on the cobble streets of Europe, but I am sure someone is interested. Kick flipping the leather wrapped board could be disastrous. Made to order via GIFL. (via ffffound)

France’s Jean-Baptiste Rautureau kicks out some Aztec inspired sandals for the summer. Full leather with woven strappings make them a special set for the heat. Available through United Arrows Japan.

More detailed views after the jump.

We showcased the Carin Wester Spring collection just recently here on Selectism, but forgot to talk about their sandal offering. The Sandal Halvar has that signature European summer look to it but refines the silhouette with thin ribbing and strapping. Available now at Tres Bien.

More views after the jump.

PingMag continues looking into the heritage of Japanese fashion with a great feature of high end leather sandal maker, Yamato. Yamato’s craft is a strong one. Each sandle is handmade and “have even trod the runways of Paris Fashion Week. But the flashy lights of the catwalk are nothing in comparison to the glowing spirit and perseverance of the man behind this spunky business.”

Read the very unique Yamato story here.