When the temperature increases, stay comfortable with sandals. They’re functional and better than flip-flops and sneakers in the heat.
Sandals are perfect shoes for summer. While dress sneakers and loafers may be fashionable, sandals come out ahead with functionality.
They’re breathable, comfortable, and pair well with casual outfits.
Invest in a high-quality pair of sandals because they’ll provide all-day support.
Many sandals also get better and more comfortable with time.
Some have straps to secure your feet, while others slip on for ease.
The following are the best sandals available.
Birkenstock Arizona Soft Slide Sandal
Key details:
- Cork footbed
- EVA outsole
- Weighs 9 oz
Benefits:
- Slip on and off
- Adjustable buckle
- Cork molds to your feet
Drawbacks:
- No ankle strap
- Takes time to break in
The following table covers Birkenstock Arizona Soft Slide Sandal prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Birkenstock | $135 | Buy from Birkenstock |
| Nordstrom | $135 | Buy from Nordstrom |
| Amazon | $134.99 | Buy from Amazon |
| Zappos | $110 | Buy from Zappos |
| Bloomingdale’s | $135 | Buy from Bloomingdale’s |
The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Slide Sandal becomes more comfortable with every wear.
Since 1973, the Arizona style has been a top seller and stood the test of time.
Avoid Birkenstock sandals for hikes or long walks. Instead, wear them for casual wear and activities.
Pair them with shorts, jeans, and any casual warm-weather style essential.
Mephisto Shark Sandal
Key details:
- Soft-air midsole
- Shock-absorber
- Weighs 18 oz
Benefits:
- Ankle strap
- Comfortable
- Well-constructed and durable
Drawbacks:
- Not very stylish
- Limited adjustability
The following table covers Mephisto Shark Sandal prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Mephisto | $299 | Buy from Mephisto |
| Nordstrom | $299 | Buy from Nordstrom |
| Amazon | $294.90 | Buy from Amazon |
| Zappos | $298.90 | Buy from Zappos |
Mephisto is an excellent brand for sandals. The Shark Sandal is on the pricey end, but it’s worth it.
Mephisto uses soft-air technology, which ensures ultimate comfort and support. It absorbs shock, allowing you to walk or hike.
The materials are top-notch, including the full-grain leather upper. It also has a quick-release ankle strap.
The thicker straps make it look chunkier. So, it’s less of a style pick and more of a functional choice.
Adjustments, putting the sandals on, or taking them off is also a breeze.
Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals
Key details:
- Luvseat PU midsole
- Rubber sole
- Anti-odor footbed
- Weighs 17 oz
Benefits:
- Excellent grip
- Comfortable
- Sturdy and durable
Drawbacks:
- Relatively heavy
- Not ideal for flat feet
The following table covers Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Chaco | $100 | Buy from Chaco |
| Backcountry | $99.95 | Buy from Backcountry |
| Amazon | $99.95 | Buy from Amazon |
| Zappos | $99.95 | Buy from Zappos |
| Moosejaw | $99.95 | Buy from Moosejaw |
Chaco Z/Cloud sandals live up to their name.
The footbed is soft, comfortable, and offers excellent arch support. It also ensures your feet don’t slide when it’s wet.
The rugged outsole provides excellent traction and stability.
If you want sandals that you can wear on walks, hikes, and water activities, get the Chaco Z/Cloud sandals.
Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal
Key details:
- EVA midsole
- Rubber sole
- Nylon upper
- Weighs 11 oz
Benefits:
- Good grip
- Slim and minimal
- Easy to adjust
Drawbacks:
- Lacks sturdiness
- Front straps can be uncomfortable
The following table covers Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Teva | $75 | Buy from Teva |
| Nordstrom | $75 | Buy from Nordstrom |
| Amazon | $74.95 | Buy from Amazon |
| Backcountry | $74.95 | Buy from Backcountry |
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | $74.99 | Buy from Dick’s Sporting Goods |
Teva’s Hurricane XLT2 Sandal is the second version of its iconic sandal.
It’s an excellent choice for day-hikes that aren’t too difficult.
It has a hook-and-loop closure, making it easy to put on and take off.
Another great feature is that it’s recyclable. Once you can no longer wear your sandals, you can send them back.
Teva has a program to create new sandals using the old ones.
The Hurricane XLT2 sandal is a must-have for outdoor activities.
You’ll be able to stay cool, comfortable, and have traction on uneven ground.
Hoka One One Hopara All-Terrain Shoe
Key details:
- EVA midsole
- Rubber outsole
- Quick-lace system
- Weighs 12 oz
Benefits:
- Water-resistant
- Arch support
- Excellent traction
- Closed-toe design
Drawbacks:
- Lacks adjustability
- Difficult to put on
The following table covers Hoka One One Hopara All-Terrain Shoe prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Hoka One One | $130 | Buy from Hoka One One |
| Zappos | $129.95 | Buy from Zappos |
| Backcountry | $129.95 | Buy from Backcountry |
| REI | $129.95 | Buy from REI |
The Hoka One One Hopara All-Terrain Shoe is also called the multisport sandal. It’s durable, grippy, and supportive.
Whether you’re in wet or dry conditions, you’ll have traction with the Hopara sandals.
The only drawbacks are the adjustability and slight difficulty when you put them on.
Otherwise, the Hopara sandals are exceptional.
Ecco Yucatan Sandal
Key details:
- Rubber outsole
- EVA footbed
- FLUIDFORM™ DIP P.U midsole
- Weighs 13 oz
Benefits:
- Comfortable
- Excellent support
- Great traction
Drawbacks:
- Not very stylish
The following table covers Ecco Yucatan Sandal prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Ecco | $135 | Buy from Ecco |
| Zappos | $135 | Buy from Zappos |
| Nordstrom | $134.95 | Buy from Nordstrom |
The Ecco Yucatan sandals aren’t the most stylish, but their performance is impressive.
You can wear the Yucatan sandals in various conditions and terrain.
The foam footbed is plush, but it means you can’t wear the sandals for water activities. They’re ideal for walks and hikes.
When it comes to comfort, you won’t find a better pair of sandals.
Prada Fusbett Sport Sandal
Key details:
- Leather insole
- Rubber sole
- Metal side-release buckle closure
Benefits:
- Stylish sandals
- Excellent traction
- Ankle support
Drawbacks:
- Pricey
- Front strap may be a bit tight
The following table covers Prada Fusbett Sport Sandal prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Prada | $850 | Buy from Prada |
| Nordstrom | $775 | Buy from Nordstrom |
| Neiman Marcus | $850 | Buy from Neiman Marcus |
If you want a designer pair of sandals, Prada has the ideal one for you.
The Fusbett Sport Sandal is stylish and has the Prada appeal.
The sandals are best for casual and hot days in the city. So, don’t wear them for hikes or water activities.
The metal buckle makes it easy to put on and take off the sandals.
It also adds a nice touch of contrast to the otherwise all-black design.
Nike Victori One
Key details:
- Rubber soles
- Foam footbed
Benefits:
- Lightweight
- Slide on and off with ease
- Inexpensive
Drawbacks:
- Not for walking or activities
The following table covers Nike Victori One prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Nike | $30 | Buy from Nike |
| Nordstrom | $30 | Buy from Nordstrom |
| Finish Line | $30 | Buy from Finish Line |
| Kohl’s | $30 | Buy from Kohl’s |
| Dick’s Sporting Goods | $29.95 | Buy from Dick’s Sporting Goods |
Nike’s Victori One slides are ideal for the beach or any occasion that doesn’t need much walking.
They’re also excellent for travel, such as sitting on an airplane or in a car.
The slides are soft and comfortable. The footbed has a pattern that keeps your foot in place with or without socks.
They have a casual and laid-back style. You can wear the Victori One slides with activewear or beachwear.
Keen Newport H2
Key details:
- Rubber outsole
- Washable polyester upper
- EVA midsole and insole
- Weighs 17 oz
Benefits:
- Machine washable
- Comfortable
- Excellent support and stability
- Dries quickly
Drawbacks:
- Lacks adjustability
- Unable to slip on
The following table covers Keen Newport H2 prices from different stores for you to compare.
| Store | Price | Link to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Keen | $130 | Buy from Keen |
| Amazon | $129.95 | Buy from Amazon |
| Zappos | $129.95 | Buy from Zappos |
| Nordstrom | $130 | Buy from Nordstrom |
Keen’s Newport H2 is an excellent pair of sandals for adventures and water sports.
They have a closed-toe design, waterproof upper, and grippy sole.
While the Newport H2 offers more protection than most sandals, they’re still breathable.
As a bonus, you can toss them in the washing machine when they get dirty.
Make sure you use a small amount of detergent and set the washer to a gentle setting.
Sandals versus flip-flops
If you want shoes with breathability, sandals and flip-flops are two popular choices.
While flip-flops are lightweight, sandals are the better option. Sandals offer more support and comfort.
There’s a strap over your foot or around your ankle to secure the shoe. You’ll be able to walk further in sandals than flip-flops.
Also, sandals are available in more styles and materials.
Whether you need arch support or specific materials, you can find the perfect one to fit your needs.
Sandals buying guide
As the temperature rises, make sandals a part of your summer style.
When you shop for sandals, you’ll find a lot of choices.
So, consider the following key features and details to pick the perfect pair:
- Fit. Your foot shouldn’t extend past the sole in length or width.
- Arch support. Arch support is essential for support and comfort.
- Adjustable. Buckles and straps ensure you find the perfect fit.
- Thicker soles. A high-quality and thick sole protects your feet. It also makes the sandals last longer.
The best pair will protect and comfort your feet.
Versatility is a bonus feature. If you have to choose one, make sure you can wear the sandals to the beach or on a hike.
What to wear with sandals
Sandals look best when you wear them with shorts, cuffed or cropped jeans, or chinos.
You can wear casual button-up shirts, t-shirts, and lightweight jackets.
Since you’ll wear sandals in the summer, remember to grab your favorite pair of polarized sunglasses.
They’re casual footwear. So, don’t dress them up in a suit.
Also, sandals don’t look stylish with socks or baggy pants.
Remember the few rules for wearing sandals, and you’ll look great.
Conclusion
Sandals are a must-have for hot weather.
While loafers, sneakers, and boat shoes are more stylish, sandals offer breathability.
You’ll get airflow and support, which keeps you cool and comfortable.
When you wear sandals, trim your toenails for a clean look.
Featured photo by David Em/Next Level Gents.
About David Em
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David Em is the founder of Next Level Gents, the ultimate destination for tips and advice about style, grooming, fitness, and success.
Peter says
What is the official colourway/style of these birkenstocks?
David Em says
Hi Peter, they’re the Arizona Soft Slide Sandal and the color is Iron.