Now the summer months are well and truly upon us, it’s time to shelve your winter boots and high-tops and instead start thinking about your warm-weather appropriate footwear - which, of course, includes sandals.
As many of my friends tell me, choosing the right sandals as a guy can be a tricky process which often results in sticking to basic sliders or even, dare I say, flip flops - quelle horreur!
Well, I’m here to tell you that the world of summer footwear can be so much more than that. Whether you’ve got a holiday abroad in the works for 2023, are planning on soaking up the sun in one of the UK’s many staycation destinations or are just roaming the parks in London, there’s something to suit the vibe wherever you may be.
The good news is that there’s many a sandal stan whose lead you can follow. Perhaps it’s Tyler The Creator who’s regularly spotted in a utility design with socks, Barak Obama who famously wears the sporty slip on or Seth Rogan who opted for mules on the red carpet - the truth of the matter is, the foot styling opportunities are endless.
Socks are optional, just make sure they work with your outfit. A classic white is an easy win, a cosy marl will provide a transitional-weather-ready upgrade, or an argle will amp up a preppy vibe - especially if you’re wearing wide tailored shorts or trousers.
From Teva’s signature velcro style to Prada’s summer take on the iconic loafer we all know and love, Camper’s statement criss-cross slip-on to Gucci’s rubber clog, we’ve researched the best in the business so you don’t have to.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Utility
Suicoke Kaw-Cab Olive
A cult favourite we’re sure you’ve spotted gracing your IG feed, Japanese label Suicoke is elite in the technical sandal space - and this tonal khaki colourway is our favourite.
The durable nylon upper is secured with nifty velcro straps, and is attached to a cushioned Vibram sole that’s sure to last you years. A versatile addition to any shoe rack.
Buy now £165.00, End
Paul Smith 'Caliban' 'Signature Stripe' Sandals
A summertime shoe that’s been given a distinctly Paul Smith twist, the London label has given the utility sandal an elegant upgrade. With a leather and polyester two-tone upper and the label’s signature multicoloured stipe, they’re both expertly made and peppered with summer cheer.
Buy now £225.00, Paul Smith
Teva beige original universal vegan sandals
The last few years have seen a real resurgence for American label Teva. The brand’s original style originated when a resourceful river guide strapped two velco watchbands to a pair of old flip flops in 1984 - and the iconic strapping system has largely stayed the same ever since.
A pair of sandals that’s both good for your wardrobe and the planet, this vegan-friendly design is crafted using a mixture of recycled materials and rubber. We love the beige but if you prefer darker colours, they’re available in black and brown, too.
Buy now £45.00, Schuh
Mules
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed
The humble Birky will forever be a classic - especially this suede mule. Whether you pair it with a marl sock when it’s slightly chilly or prefer to go barefoot, these will see you through the season in ultimate style.
Buy now £125.00, Birkenstock
Prada Leather Sabots
The Prada loafer... but make it summer. A sandal for smarter occasions, these are eveningwear-ready for warm nights in the city. Paired with a relaxed trouser or even tailored shorts, you’ll be the footwear king everyone wants to know.
Buy now £770.00, Prada
Grenson Dale Sandals
Grenson’s Dale sandals are my favourite pair in my collection. Completely versatile, they’re summer ready thanks to the perforated construction. The sturdy leather makes them great for the transitional season, too - and you can dress them up or down depending on the occasion. An absolute suitcase essential for every holiday.
Buy now £195.00, Grenson
Slip on
Vagabond Nate Sandals
Both sophiticated and easy-to-wear, you can wear Vagabond’s slip-ons poolside, for sofa days or even for a day in the city. In the Swedish brand’s signature style, they exude Scandi minimal chic - and feature padded soles and open toes for utmost comfort.
Buy now £110.00, Vagabond
Camper Brutus Sandal
Every man needs at least one statement sandal in their arsenal - and we think Camper’s blue and green design makes a convincing case to add to your collection.
Whilst we love the aesthetics, they’re most certainly not all form over function. Ultra-lightweight with built in shock absorption thanks to the Spanish brand’s trademark technology, you’ll never want to take them off.
Buy now £120.00, Camper
Ancient Greek Sandals Apteros Men
If you’re into the Hermès look but not the slightly eyewatering £600 price tag, perhaps Ancient Greek Sandals’ Apteros design is the answer. Available in four neutral colours, these will look best worn sockless in a sundreched coastal destination - just make sure you get the all-important pre-holiday pedicure, too.
Buy now £155.00, Ancient Greek Sandals
Rubber
Gucci Elea Logo-Perforated Rubber Clogs
You can’t put a foot wrong in a pair of Gucci’s hardy rubber clogs. Low-key and minimal yet still a stylish fashion statement, the perforated monogram is the epitome of understated luxury.
Buy now £375.00, Mr. Porter
Crocs Echo Slide
Crocs are officially cool again. Spotted on the likes of Justin Bieber, Pharrell Williams and Stormzy, they’ve become a celeb staple - and can count collaborations with Balenciaga, Daily Paper and Palace in their impressive archive.
The Echo Slide is one of the newer iterations. Perfect for relaxing by the pool or even as the finishing touch to a streetwear look in the city, they’re a statement that’s worth the £55 price tag.
Buy now £55.00, Crocs
Bottega Veneta Matt Rubber Sandals
Using the Italian house’s signature weave that was first used to reinforce leather bags in the 60s, Bottega Veneta’s Plat Intrecciato rubber sandals brings the iconic construction firmly into 2023. Contemporary, versatile and enduring, it’s a style you’ll be wearing during the warmer months for years to come.
Buy now £360.00, MatchesFashion
