Another summer, another quest for the ideal pair of men’s sandals for my feet to don. I rarely wear anything open-toed when in New York City, where I live, on account of the filth. But, travel being my vocation, I often get the opportunity to let my hooves breathe in warmer climes. Having failed to find anything that really made my heart sing last year, I entered this season uncertain. My trusty, functional Tevas remained perfect for the beach and in most casual settings, but could it be that I would go on without something sleeker, more chic? Would I ever be able to wear a sandal, I wondered, out to a nice dinner?
The answer, I can now report, is yes. Which sandals those are, you’ll have to read on to find out. Gathered below are sandals that I own and sandals that I would own were money and closet space not considerations. There are casual sandals, for walks in the park on hot days, and dressier sandals appropriate for fine dining. There are sandals with grip for waterfall hikes, and ones with which you can easily traipse the sand.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
Casual sandals
I still love a good pair of fisherman sandals—the twins behind The Row and their taste for utility refined are to thank, although I have omitted their piece as it is now sold out. The Olsens and their wares stand outside of many a price point anyway, however, and as life goes on fashion must find a way. I myself have taken to this dupe from Vagabond, but Mephisto also has a pair at a reasonable price point. In terms of other casual styles, there’s always the trusty Birkenstock, while I have grown increasingly attentive to the striking color-mixing and patterns of the brand Suicoke—there are many options beyond the two I’ve pulled here.
Dress sandals
For life’s more formal occasions, some might recommend that you put your feet away entirely. This need not be. While flip flops and the like certainly have no place at a nice dinner or a formal beach wedding, the lustrous leather pieces put out by brands at all price points bring luxury to the table without closing the toe. The aforementioned fisherman sandal can step up to the plate here as seen with Josef Seibel’s nearly-closed sandal. Slides also suit—Vince Camuto’s offerings at DSW are the most low-key. For the boldest: vegetable-tanned leather, hand-cut and hand-woven in Mexico to an all-but-closed genuine huarache, composes Yuketen’s Cruz sandal.
Hiking and sport sandals
I crossed Crete in Hurricane Verge Tevas two summers ago. I hiked in them and swam in them and climbed all over the place and not once did my ankles roll nor sprain nor break—they’re light and waterproof, easy to travel with and sleek enough to wear to town in a pinch. Tevas wrap around your foot like a precautionary splint. But just as I am loyal to the Teva, many when it comes to men’s sandals pledge allegiance to the Chaco—the brand always plays with color in a fun way. Nike’s low top sandals are super lightweight and super affordable if you prefer something chunkier, while Astral Webber offers a nice military green, uber-secure waterproof Birkenstock look.
Beach sandals
While strapping into a waterproof shoe is indeed ideal for hiking, Velcro and sand mix perhaps a little too easily. The beach sandal is best slipped on and off. If you must wear a flip flop, opt for the clean neutral leather of the classic Rainbow. They only get better with age, darkening beautifully with texture and wear brought by the elements. OOFOS are a comfortable alternative that can double as a house shoe.
