A FRANKIE4 First: Behind the Design of Isla, Beach-Proof Style Perfected

19 Mar 2025

A FRANKIE4 first: meet Isla. Combining style, support, and comfort, this water-resistant beach slide is everything you’ve been waiting for. With a waterproof-treated leather upper and lining and podiatrist-approved comfort, Isla will take you from sand to poolside—finally, beach-proof style perfected.

Behind the Innovation of a Fresh Favourite

The outlook for summer style and foot health has never looked so bright. Our community asked for a beach slide that combines style, comfort, and support—and we delivered with Isla.

To give you a behind-the-scenes look, we sat down with the talented team behind Isla—Catherine Kingdon (Product Development Manager), Rosie Jamieson (Associate Director of Technical Footwear), Gabrielle Thompson (Director of Footwear), and Hannah Trotman (Product Developer)—to chat about what went into designing Isla and why it’s the ultimate summer slide.

Q. What sparked the idea to create Isla, and how did the design process begin?

Catherine: We all know the classic thong is an Australian summer staple, but we also know how tough it can be on our feet, especially after wearing them day in and day out. Isla was designed to improve on the underfoot comfort of ordinary thongs by adding the support that helps reduce strain on your arches. We also wanted to expand our communities’ shoedrobe options; ranging from boots to a beach-proof slide, covering all their footwear needs so they don’t need to be in pain for any occasion.

That’s where Isla came in. We aimed to create something that looked stylish, felt great to wear, and provided the support we all need. Isla is our reimagined beach slide that lets you have both: style and comfort for all-day wear.

Gabrielle: Right! The idea was to take something so familiar and give it a much-needed upgrade. Isla has the same easy-going vibe you want for summer, but with the support and style that traditional thongs just can't provide.

Q. Isla seems like a big leap forward in beach footwear. What makes it stand out from other slides?

Rosie: Isla is all about being both practical and beautiful. It features a waterproof-treated leather upper and lining—so it can handle saltwater and sand without a hitch. It’s unique to find this finish with regular beach slides, but with Isla, you get the best of both worlds: a chic, sleek design with real staying power.

Hannah: And it’s not just the leather. We added hidden elastic to the instep, so it flexes with your foot, providing a secure yet comfortable fit. That’s something you don’t often find in beach slides. It makes a huge difference when you’re walking around all day, whether you’re at the beach or grabbing lunch by the pool.

Q: We’re all about foot health here at FRANKIE4. What makes Isla so special when it comes to comfort and support?

Gabrielle: We really wanted to create something that combined comfort with style, and that starts with the footbed. Isla features our signature Sole Hero® Footbed, designed by Caroline McCulloch, our founder. It’s podiatrist engineered and designed to cradle and cushion your feet with targeted arch support, so you can walk for hours without any discomfort.

Rosie: Exactly. We've used the contours of the Sole Hero® Footbed with the combination of the heel cradle and strap placement (adding a mid-foot strap) to help stabilise the foot, which is something uncommon in traditional thongs. This helps address pressure points and better overall alignment. So, with Isla, you’re not just getting a fashionable slide; you’re getting one that actually helps your feet feel supported all day.

Q: How long did it take to develop Isla, and what were some of the challenges you faced during the process?

Catherine: It took about four years to get Isla just right. We spent a lot of time on trials and wear tests to make sure everything from the materials to the fit was perfect. One of the biggest challenges was getting the waterproof-treated leather just right—finding a finish that was easily cared for and beach ready but still felt soft and luxurious was key.

Hannah: Another challenge was making sure the fit was flexible enough for all foot types. We wanted Isla to adapt to your foot without being too loose or too tight, so that hidden elastic on the instep really helped make it a more comfortable, customised fit.

Q. Isla comes in black and rose gold. What inspired those colour choices?

Gabrielle: Black is a classic. It goes with everything, whether you’re on holiday at a resort or heading out to run some errands here at home. Rose gold was our way of adding a touch of warmth and sophistication. It gives Isla a little extra personality while still keeping it versatile and stylish.

Rosie: Both colours are designed to feel elegant yet relaxed—perfect for everything from the beach to a quick trip into town.

Q: Isla is packed with so many thoughtful features. What’s your favourite part of the design?

Catherine: My favourite part has to be its versatile design; it's so easy to style or pack for a holiday, taking up no room in your case. Despite how supportive and practical Isla is though, it’s still incredibly lightweight and easy to wear. It’s all about balance—providing support without sacrificing comfort.

Hannah: I agree! The slip-resistant rubber sole is a standout for me. It provides some added traction, especially when walking from the wet sand to the street. When it comes to care, you can just rinse it after use like you would all your other beach gear too. It’s thoughtful details like that that really elevate the design.

Q: Finally, why should women choose Isla for their summer footwear?

Gabrielle: If you want a beach slide that feels as good as it looks, Isla is the way to go. It’s lightweight, water-resistant and designed with your foot health in mind. Isla gives you that minimalist beach vibe but with the kind of comfort you didn’t know you could have in a summer slide.

Rosie: Exactly! If you’re tired of compromising style for comfort, Isla is the answer. It’s the perfect upgrade for your summer shoe collection.

Catherine: And with waterproof-treated leather and a slip-resistant sole, Isla will keep up with all your summer adventures. It’s built for summer—whether you’re lounging poolside or running around town.

Isla is available now in black and rose gold. Perfect for your next beach day, resort getaway, or coastal adventure. Plus, as a special treat for those who order this FRANKIE4 first, Isla comes in a custom-designed, collectible shoe box.

SHOP ISLA