Best overall sandal
Birkenstock Arizona Soft Insole – Oiled Leather (Unisex)
Benefits
- A firm, supportive insole that molds to the shape of your feet
- The outsole has a strong grip to provide more traction and stability when walking
- Comfortable upper that won't dig into the skin
- The more you wear them, the more comfortable they are.
Disadvantages
- A little pricey for such a ubiquitous style
Birkenstock's OG sandal wins our top pick, and for good reason. It's incredibly comfortable, easy to wear in multiple ways, and designed to last far longer than a traditional pair. After years of testing, we can say it stands up to anything: airport trips, walks in the park, or a pile of feet on vacation.
It's made with an oiled nubuck leather upper, leather lining, and leather insole, which develops a natural patina over time, giving it a rich, worn look. What we love most is the cork and latex footbed. It molds to the shape of your foot over time, with plush arch support and a contour that feels like walking on sponges. And between the adjustable straps and deep heel cup, your foot is perfectly supported: no slipping or wobbling.
Thanks to its featherlight (and flexible) EVA sole, we wore it for hours on concrete and cobblestones like champions. A word of advice: The suede upper doesn't dry quickly, so it's best to avoid wearing it on rainy days. This is our fashion editor's perfect vacation style: versatile enough to wear to the beach, a restaurant, or just lounging around the resort. You can pair it with everything from pleated pants and a stand-up collar shirt to your favorite swimsuit.
Read more: The Best Flip Flops with Arch Support
| > Superior »listicle-product-key-specs-line» | Amalfi Leather |
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| EVA |
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> »pros-cons-container » Advantages »embedded-product-pros-cons-container »Helps with post-workout recovery
Dual-density cushioning provides additional comfort
- Heel-to-toe rubber traction
- Available in some cool colors
- Super affordable
- Disadvantages
- May only work by the pool or at home
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> »product-dek-container » The Restfeel sandal is ideal for post-workout recovery. With dual-density cushioning that combines soft foam for comfort with firmer foam for support, this sandal provides a sense of relief after a run and on rest days. When stepping out, the rubber keeps my feet firmly planted. I've found it provides excellent traction on the slippery floor of the post-shower locker room at the gym. Plus, the upper strap cushions the top of the foot with a foam lining, while also supporting the toes. »embedded-product-description »If you're looking for a sandal that provides soothing comfort for recovering from a marathon or intense treadmill session, this is the perfect fit. It's incredibly comfortable, supportive, and has a sleek, minimalist style. Besides dog walks, I've worn this sandal for morning runs and long days at the pool, paired with my shorts or swim trunks.
Read more:
target= data-vars-ga-outbound-link= »https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/g39410945/recovery-shoes-sandals-slides-for-runners/ » data-vars-ga-ux-element= »_blank » data-vars-ga-call-to-action= »https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/g39410945/recovery-shoes-sandals-slides-for-runners/ »>Best Recovery Shoes »Hyperlink »
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href= »_blank » aria-label= »nofollow noopener » data-href= »base-link » data-product-url= »https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1576254&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.toddsnyder.com%2Fproducts%2Ftodd-snyder-suede-crossover-sandalsand » data-affiliate= »$268 at Todd Snyder for Nomad Suede Crossover Sandal in Sand » data-affiliate-url= »https://www.toddsnyder.com/products/todd-snyder-suede-crossover-sandalsand » data-affiliate-network= »https://www.toddsnyder.com/products/todd-snyder-suede-crossover-sandalsand » data-vars-ga-call-to-action= »true » data-vars-ga-media-role= »https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1576254&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.toddsnyder.com%2Fproducts%2Ftodd-snyder-suede-crossover-sandalsand » data-vars-ga-media-type= »{« site_id »: »c7b9f75a-2f85-4251-a92e-dbc6c7213473″, »metadata »:null, »network »:{« name »: »Skimlinks »}, »product_metadata »:null, »afflink_redirect »: »/_p/afflink/dEfi/toddsnyder-nomad-suede-crossover-sandal-in »} » data-vars-ga-outbound-link= »$268 at Todd Snyder » data-vars-ga-product-brand= »1″ data-vars-ga-product-id= »Slide » data-vars-ga-product-price= »https://www.toddsnyder.com/products/todd-snyder-suede-crossover-sandalsand » data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id= »Todd Snyder » data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand= »3ff3202c-fe75-4beb-9598-ba637a827caa » data-vars-ga-link-treatment= »$268.00″ data-vars-ga-sku= »c728d654-ca9b-4766-801d-9e00c4fc220e » data-vars-ga-magento-tracking= »Todd Snyder »>
Pros »pros-cons-container » The sand color is chic and goes with most vacation outfits »embedded-product-pros-cons-container » Smooth and durable suede material
Feeling of lightness
- Disadvantages
- A little pricey, but will last for years to come
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Let this stylish sandal transport you to Italy. After all, that's the vision behind their craftsmanship. Not only is the casual, laid-back suede ideal for a boat ride along the coast, but the foam footbed offers style and support. The molded foam of Todd Snyder's Nomad sandal molds to your foot as if it were custom-made. Thanks to the contours in the arch and heel, you're not walking flat, but actually supported. Add to that the EVA outsole, and you get that lightweight, airy feel that softens every step, whether you're walking a few blocks or strolling across a rooftop. It's plush without being bulky, and comfortable enough to wear all day without hesitation. »product-dek-container » Gollayan wore this sandal on a five-mile walk in the south of France and found it kept her feet supported and pain-free. “I usually never wear flip-flops because they’re kind of ugly and uncomfortable,” says Gollayan. “Not so with these. They’re incredibly comfortable, and the suede finish gives them a luxurious feel.” Not to mention the ultra-strong, durable stitching makes these sandals virtually indestructible. They only come in two colors, but trust us: the sand hue will pair perfectly with your vacation outfit; consider a data-vars-ga-ux-element=
data-vars-ga-call-to-action= »https://www.menshealth.com/style/g26754676/best-hawaiian-shirts/ »>Hawaiian shirt »https://www.menshealth.com/style/g26754676/best-hawaiian-shirts/ » and off-white pants »Hyperlink » .
| Superior "table-container" | Italian hairy fallow deer |
|---|---|
| Outsole | EVA |
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data-href= »_blank » data-product-url= »nofollow noopener » data-affiliate= »base-link » data-affiliate-url= »https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1576254&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.danner.com%2Fstyles%2Fsandals-and-water-shoes%2Fjoseph-leather-sandal-midnight.html » data-affiliate-network= »$140 at danner.com for Joseph Leather Sandal » data-vars-ga-call-to-action= »https://www.danner.com/styles/sandals-and-water-shoes/joseph-leather-sandal-midnight.html » data-vars-ga-media-role= »https://www.danner.com/styles/sandals-and-water-shoes/joseph-leather-sandal-midnight.html » data-vars-ga-media-type= »true » data-vars-ga-outbound-link= »https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1576254&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.danner.com%2Fstyles%2Fsandals-and-water-shoes%2Fjoseph-leather-sandal-midnight.html » data-vars-ga-product-brand= »{« afflink_redirect »: »/_p/afflink/dEfC/danner-joseph-leather-sandal », »site_id »: »c7b9f75a-2f85-4251-a92e-dbc6c7213473″, »network »:{« name »: »Skimlinks »}} » data-vars-ga-product-id= »$140 at danner.com » data-vars-ga-product-price= »1″ data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id= »Slide » data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand= »https://www.danner.com/styles/sandals-and-water-shoes/joseph-leather-sandal-midnight.html » data-vars-ga-link-treatment= »Danner » data-vars-ga-sku= »d284d9e8-e4e3-4e7c-a4c4-04d7cd1e1130″ data-vars-ga-magento-tracking= »$140.00″>
Padded heel strap provides a secure fit »pros-cons-container » Easy to put on and take off »embedded-product-pros-cons-container » This style can go with hiking gear or casual wear
Disadvantages
- Be careful of sunburn and sharp objects
The next time you head out for a walk in the great outdoors, your feet will thank you for wearing Danner leather sandals. We slipped these on and were impressed by how supportive they felt once the strap was tightened, like a custom hug. We were also impressed by their elasticity and the sturdy, ultra-grippy sole, which withstood kicks into rocks, trudging across muddy rails, and swimming in shallow river waters. Truly, the outsole can survive an apocalypse.
But the real draw of Danner sandals is their comfort. We tested the PU (polyurethane) footbed and were impressed by how well it molds to our feet for almost exceptional support. Ultra-soft cushioning that will see you through your day in the great outdoors. In short, with these sandals, you'll conquer the mountains. Finally, because style points should always be considered, we particularly approve of the rugged dad style, which is suitable for everyday wear and easy to integrate into your wardrobe.
| Superior | N / A |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Vibram® Traction Cascade |
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Benefits
- Made with a high-traction rubber sole
- The insole is padded for comfort with every step
- The leather upper adds a chic touch
- Not easy to damage
Disadvantages
- The cross strap may rub against the feet after a while
Whether you're walking miles on the beach or cobblestone streets, you need a comfortable sandal that pairs perfectly with your vacation outfits. Check out Cole Haan's crossover leather style: a sleeker option that pairs perfectly with your best shorts And knitted polo shirtsThe braided sole, with its woven texture and elastic, provides stability and relieves friction areas such as the Achilles tendon and heel. You can therefore wear them during long walks on the beach or promenade.
I took my first steps on a trip to Hawaii, where I walked along rocky shores and tackled rough terrain without worrying about my feet. The cushioned insole provided support for hours, and over time, the sandal began to mold to the shape of my foot as if it had determined my stride. As for the crisscross straps, they're flexible enough to never rub or dig in, even after hours of wear.
| > Superior »listicle-product-key-specs-line» | Leather |
|---|---|
| Rubber |
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data-theme-key= »_blank » href= »nofollow noopener » aria-label= »base-link » data-href= »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP?tag=menshealth-auto-20″ data-product-url= »$198 at Amazon for Diego Suede Thong Sandal » data-affiliate= »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP » data-affiliate-url= »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP » data-affiliate-network= »true » data-vars-ga-call-to-action= »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP?tag=menshealth-auto-20″ data-vars-ga-media-role= »{“site_id”: »c7b9f75a-2f85-4251-a92e-dbc6c7213473″, »metadata»:{« links »: {« default »: »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP?tag=menshealth-auto-20″, »sem »: »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP?tag=mh-lift-20″, »social»: »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP?tag=mh-soc-lift-20″}}, »network»:{« name »: »Amazon »}, »product_metadata »:null, »afflink_redirect »: »/_p/afflink/u5Rc/amazon-vince-mens-diego-thong-sandal »} » data-vars-ga-media-type= »$198 at Amazon » data-vars-ga-outbound-link= »1″ data-vars-ga-product-brand= »Slide » data-vars-ga-product-id= »https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKS5KTSP » data-vars-ga-product-price= »Vince » data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id= »fe5b4aa7-0d81-4e9f-9086-baf0f4ca7e23″ data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand= »$198.00″ data-vars-ga-product-sem3-category= »c2d326df-c8ff-4d82-8f0f-710f756ca9c7″ data-vars-ga-link-treatment= »Vince » data-vars-ga-sku= »Men's Sandals » data-vars-ga-magento-tracking= »(not set) | (not set) »>
> »pros-cons-container » Pros »embedded-product-pros-cons-container »The flip-flop design is truly unique
Suede is chic and soft to the touch
- Suitable for dressy resort wear
- Disadvantages
- The split toe may rub after a lot of walking
Suede sandals tend to add a bit of elegance to your outfit with texture, allowing you to stand out. Vince's sandal offers just that with a thong design. Its platform is more subtle yet comfortable than most of the flip-flops we tested. Compared to the other sandals on this list, this option doesn't offer the best grip for tackling uneven terrain or slippery slopes. After testing it out on an impromptu getaway, we found it's better suited for stylish lounging than off-road adventures. Our style editors have worn it to the pool cabana with their best pants or
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Pros »pros-cons-container » Suitable for all terrains: ideal for everyday walking or light hiking »embedded-product-pros-cons-container » Excellent outsole traction
The insole is enhanced to provide additional stability and arch support
- Disadvantages
- Straps and belts can dig into the skin if they are too tight
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Teva's Hurricane XLT2 is the perfect sandal for urban walkers and day hikers. The three hook-and-loop straps aren't just decorative. Each one holds your foot in place: around the ankle, across the midfoot, and near the toes. Our testers say these straps give it a snug fit. Underfoot, the EVA foam midsole provides comfort. Soft enough to cushion every step, it also offers good support to relieve arch pressure. The thick outsole is surprisingly sturdy, allowing you to tackle rocky terrain, gravel paths, or rutted sidewalks without feeling a single bump. It softens your stride. »product-dek-container » And since summer adventures often involve water somewhere, the quick-drying straps will make all the difference. One tester noted that they don't soak up water like a sponge, saving you from soggy feet for the rest of your hike. However, straps that are too tight will irritate the skin, so be sure to test them before wearing. »embedded-product-description»
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| Outsole | Polyester »listicle-product-key-specs-value-label » |
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| Superior | Durabrasion™ Rubber »listicle-product-key-specs-value-label »
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Now 15% off »embedded-product-details»
Benefits
- The closed silhouette protects the toes from any accidents
- Breathable and waterproof
- Made with a Lyrcra lining to reduce discomfort and prevent blisters
Disadvantages
- Not ideal if you want your feet more exposed
A closed-toe sandal is a great option for protecting your feet from rocks, roots, and debris on the trail. Check out Merrell's waterproof design, featuring an athletic fit, breathable mesh, and a stretchy lining that molds to the shape of your foot, reducing friction and the risk of blisters. The single-pull lacing system allows for easy adjustment for a perfect fit.
While this closed-toe sandal isn't for everyone, it excels in the great outdoors and protects your feet from slips and debris. We found the rubber outsole provides excellent traction, preventing falls while traveling through slippery creek beds. The grippy rubber outsole keeps our feet firmly planted, giving us confidence on everything from loose gravel to mossy rocks. While this sandal isn't the most stylish of our picks, it's a real workhorse when it comes to performance.
| Superior | Leather |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Vibram Ecostep Recycle |
How to Choose the Best Types of Men's Sandals?
To help you determine the different types of sandals for your planned activities, we've categorized them below.
Tap dancing
Generally, slides, like the ones you wear to shower, are ideal for relaxing or lounging by the pool. Recovery slides are a type of sandal to wear after a workout or sport to help loosen muscles, as they generally support the arch of the foot with good cushioning. They are generally recommended for minimal walking activity.
Outdoor/Hiking Sandals
These often have a closed design or at least several durable straps or straps if they are open, as seen on the Teva and Danner sandals shown above to protect the ankle, in addition to a durable outsole and a molded insole for arch support.
Dress sandals
While dress sandals are often made from higher-quality materials, and the ones we tested here, like Todd Snyder and Cole Haan, are all comfortable and form-fitting, we only recommend them for warm-weather activities that don't require a lot of strenuous walking.
How we tested the best men's sandals
The best men's sandals are versatile and excel in a variety of settings, from casual wear around town or the neighborhood to rugged terrain. Men's HealthWe tested sandals extensively and spoke with a panel of style, travel, and footwear experts (such as stylists, fashion designers, seasoned travelers, and podiatrists) to find the best sandals for men. Our team of testers ventured into a variety of environments with these sandals—such as hiking, rafting, beach walks, poolside relaxation, errands, and casual summer events—to compare each pair of sandals.
Comfort test
We meticulously evaluated the cushioning, arch support, and overall fit of each pair. We checked to see if the straps or loops caused any friction against our skin, tried the fit right out of the box to see if they needed to be adjusted or trimmed down a size, and paid special attention to the insole materials and outsole flexibility to ensure optimal comfort without compromising durability.
Tensile test
We rigorously examined the outsole grip by wearing these sandals on a variety of terrain, from treacherous rocks and sandy beaches to wet and slippery sidewalks. We closely examined how the lugs, materials, and tread depth work together to provide grip on the ground before determining their traction level.
Durability test
To ensure the sandals provide a solid foundation while still being able to withstand significant wear and tear, we evaluated the materials, stitching, and overall construction to assess their sturdiness and balance. The best men's sandals we tested and selected have indeed survived exposure to abrasive surfaces as well as immersion in water.
Versatility test
Beyond the style or whether this pair of sandals pairs with X, Y, or Z (although we favored classic styles), our versatility test is based on the performance and activities each pair is suited to. We therefore carefully evaluated whether the sandals can be worn for hiking, water sports, walking, everyday wear, and more. In addition, we carefully examined their features, such as patented technologies or specialized materials, to ensure they meet the demands of various outdoor activities.
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As the style and business editor for Men's Health, Joseph covers all things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a business editor for Spy and wrote for Travel + Leisure.
Christian is the Associate Commerce Editor at Men's Health and Women's Health, where he oversees shopping content for both brands. He began his career as an accessories assistant at Vogue and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he's not shopping online, you can find him taking long walks with his two corgis.
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