Reaction Platform Slide
The Platform Slide is the everyday sandal in the Kenneth Cole Reaction line. A 2-inch cork or foam platform, single wide upper strap, and a footbed that has enough cushion to handle a city day. Goes with denim, midi dresses, and shorts. The neutral colors stay in the lineup year after year so replacements are easy.
I have worn Kenneth Cole Reaction sandals through summer city days and weekend weddings. These five platforms have actually held up to the test.
I have worn Kenneth Cole Reaction platform sandals through summer city days, weekend weddings, and a few too many outdoor concerts. The line splits between truly walkable everyday platforms and dressier statement styles. These are the five I would actually buy in 2026.
| Sandal | Heel Height | Style | Best For |
| — | — | — | — |
| Reaction Platform Slide | 2 inch | Slide | Daily wear |
| Reaction Espadrille Wedge | 2.5 inch | Wedge espadrille | Brunch and travel |
| Reaction Strappy Platform | 3 inch | Strappy | Date nights |
| Reaction Ankle Strap | 2.5 inch | Closed back | Office summer |
| Reaction Slingback Wedge | 2 inch | Slingback | Weddings |
How we evaluated these
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
The shortlist
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reaction Platform Slide | 2 inch | Check price | |
| Reaction Espadrille Wedge | 2.5 inch | Check price | |
| Reaction Strappy Platform | 3 inch | Check price | |
| Reaction Ankle Strap | 2.5 inch | Check price | |
| Reaction Slingback Wedge | 2 inch | Check price |
Each pick, examined
Reaction Platform Slide
The Platform Slide is the everyday sandal in the Kenneth Cole Reaction line. A 2-inch cork or foam platform, single wide upper strap, and a footbed that has enough cushion to handle a city day. Goes with denim, midi dresses, and shorts. The neutral colors stay in the lineup year after year so replacements are easy.
Reaction Espadrille Wedge
The espadrille wedge is the summer travel sandal. Jute wrap on the platform, soft canvas upper, and an ankle tie that keeps it secure on cobblestones and beach boardwalks. The 2.5 inch height is dressy enough for a casual restaurant but flat enough to walk in. Mine survived a week in Lisbon.
Reaction Strappy Platform
The strappy platform is the going-out sandal. Multiple thin straps across the foot, a 3-inch platform with a chunky heel, and a back strap to keep them on the foot through dancing. Not all-day comfortable but right for a date night or a summer rooftop event.
Reaction Ankle Strap
The ankle-strap closed-back platform is the one I wear to summer office days. The closed back makes it dressier than a slide, the ankle strap adds support, and the 2.5 inch platform is the right amount of dress without being a heel. Comes in leather and faux leather.
Reaction Slingback Wedge
The slingback wedge is the wedding and event sandal. Closed toe, slingback strap, and a 2-inch wedge that lets you walk grass and patios without sinking. Comes in metallic finishes that pair with most cocktail dresses. The wedge is comfortable enough for a long ceremony and reception.
Questions answered
Mostly yes, but the platform styles can run a half size large in the toe box. If you are between sizes, I generally size down half a size for the strappy and slide styles.
The lower 2 inch platforms are genuinely walkable for a city day. The 3 inch and higher styles look great but I would not recommend them for more than a dinner-and-cocktail outing.
