How to Build Your Own Sandals with Genesis DIY Kit

Quick answer

The Genesis DIY Sandal Kit from Xero Shoes lets you build custom huarache-style sandals that are ultra-light, flexible, and packable. Follow these steps to assemble them for a perfect fit.

Step-by-step assembly guide

1. 1. Prepare your materials: Lay out all parts from the Genesis DIY Sandal Kit: the sole, laces, and any included hardware. Check that you have two soles (left and right) and enough lace length for both sandals. Common mistake: mixing up left and right soles. The soles are shaped differently, so hold them against your feet before starting.
2. 2. Mark the lace positions: Place the sole under your foot and mark where you want the straps to cross. Typically, one strap goes between the big toe and second toe, and another wraps around the heel. Use a pen or marker to indicate the lace holes on the sole. Checkpoint: stand naturally while marking. If you mark while sitting, the strap positions may shift when you walk.
3. 3. Create the lace holes: Using the tool provided in the kit (or a sharp awl), punch holes at the marked positions. Make sure the holes are large enough for the lace to pass through but not so big that the lace slips out. Common mistake: punching holes too close to the edge, which can cause the sole to tear. Leave at least 5mm of material around each hole.
4. 4. Thread the laces: Cut the lace to your desired length (allow extra for adjustments). Thread each end through the corresponding holes from the bottom of the sole, pulling the lace up through the top. Follow the huarache pattern: the toe strap crosses over the foot, and the heel strap wraps around the back. Checkpoint: keep the lace ends even on both sides to avoid an unbalanced fit.
5. 5. Adjust and tie the straps: Put the sandal on and pull the laces to achieve a snug but comfortable fit. The toe strap should not rub between your toes, and the heel strap should hold your foot in place without slipping. Tie a secure knot or use the provided hardware to lock the laces in place. Common mistake: overtightening the straps, which can cause discomfort or blisters. Aim for a fit that feels secure but allows slight movement.
6. 6. Trim excess lace: Once you are satisfied with the fit, trim the excess lace ends close to the knot. Leave about 1cm to prevent the knot from untying. You can also melt the cut ends slightly with a lighter to prevent fraying. Checkpoint: test the fit again after trimming. Sometimes cutting the lace changes the tension slightly.

Product details

• Genesis DIY Sandal Kit: The Genesis DIY Sandal Kit includes an exclusive FeelTrue rubber sole and materials to assemble your own huarache-style sandals. The FeelTrue rubber sole gives you a flexible, ground-connected feel while still protecting your feet from sharp objects.