Jogging around the Marina this weekend in 85-degree heat instantly turned me into a marketer’s dream. I felt uncomfortably warm in my sneakers after an afternoon run, so I popped over to Chestnut Street for a quick shopping detour where more than a few boutiques had the latest footwear trends—gladiator and ankle-strap sandals—displayed prominently in their windows. There were so many choices, from exotic skins to embellished and metallic leather; I wasn’t sure whether I was feeling light headed from the exercise or the dizzying shoe selection. So what if I’d be back home amid the misty Sunset fog in an hour? The sight of all those gorgeous feet-baring flats sent me on a post-workout mission to find some hot options for the next SF heat wave. Here’s my absolute favorite find from Smash, and a couple other great options I found at more affordable prices around the city.

Stud Muffin


Courtesy of Shopbop.com

I love the mix of delicate and punk of Loeffler Randall’s black leather studded Fiona sandal ($425). Smash, 2030 Chestnut St., 415-673-4736, smashsf.com

Mirror, mirror


Courtesy of Nordstrom.com

This silver calfskin Gladio Specchio sandal by Stuart Weitzman ($265) is sleek enough to take you from poolside to party. Nordstrom, 865 Market St., 415-243-8500, nordstrom.com

Gold Rush


Courtesy of Ninewest.com

At this price, you can afford to run out and stock up on Nine West’s gold reptile Rossinis ($75). Nine West, 3251 20th Ave., 415-731-0119, ninewest.com