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The Best Men’s Sandals for Summer 2021

Just in time for summer.

by Doug Schnitzspahn
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
The Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals by Birkenstock

It’s sandal season, at last, and summer 2021 is giving us all lots of new reasons to roam — whether that means hitting the trail or sauntering stylishly into a friend’s yard. Whether you’re looking for comfortable men’s sandals that give you that Big Lebowski chill-out vibe or for something edgier for scoring just-down-from-Mount-Olympus style points, we’ve found the sandal for you. And if what you want is a sporty sandal or water shoe that’s all about durability, tread, and adaptability, we’ve got you covered you too. But first, a public service announcement of sorts: Summer’s the time to let your feet breathe, but before you let them breathe, give them the attention they need.

Celebrity groomer Marissa Machado has worked with style-conscious guys like Rami Malek and Zachary Levi. And when it comes to men and sandals, she doesn’t mince words.

“I truly believe that if a man is going to show his feet, they need to be presentable,” says Machado. This means, guys, go get your toes handled. “Men can go to any nail shop for a pedicure,” says Machado.

If the process is not your style, she suggests a DIY method: Fill a large bowl or bucket of sorts with hot water and a pinch of epsom salt and soak for about 5 to 7 minutes. After your feet are good and soft, clip nails to the desired length. She also suggests using a cuticle pusher and clipper to clean up dead skin around the toenails. To finish, file the nails for smooth edges and you’re sandal-ready.

Foot management aside, when shopping for men’s sandals, the American Podiatric Medical Association recommends you opt for leather ones because they minimize blister potential. Make sure your feet fit snugly and don’t hang off the edge. And don’t wear open-toe sandals when walking truly long distances, because many don’t offer enough shock absorption or support.

That being said, the following men’s sandals can handle all of summer’s fun, give your feet some breathing room, and look the part when you are just hanging out with a mojito.

All-Terrain Men’s Sandals for Summer

Men's Newport H2 by Keen

This exemplary water shoe is fit for any summer adventure. Keens are famously hardy, well-crafted, and adaptable, and the Newport H2 is no exception. It comes in 16 different colors and patterns, so there's room for sandal traditionalists and rebels alike. Ventilated straps mean fast dry-time, and razor-siped soles give traction in and out of the water. You can throw the whole shoe in the washing machine.

$75
Ultra-Lightweight Trail Sandals by Xero

These sandals don't look like much, but they're actually meant for action. They're your sandal if you plan on hiking, running, doing yoga, rafting, or kayaking. They're flexible enough to roll up and fit in your pack.

$80
Chaco Men's Odyssey Sandal
$99.95

All-Occasion Men’s Sandals for Summer

Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals by Birkenstock

Few sandals feel as cushy and natural on your hard-working feet than Birkenstock, thanks to the iconic brand’s cork footbed that molds to the idiosyncrasies of your feet the more you wear it while still supplying lots of support. Always comfortable, eternally relevant, a summer staple.

$135
Brasilia Cross Slide Sandal by Massimo Matteo

A timeless sandal — this one's Italian-made — that's been workshopped to perfection over centuries in the Mediterranean and beyond. The design offers all the airiness and kick-off ease of a flip-flop, while looking formal enough for any out-of-doors occasion. With flexible rubber sole, and smooth-finished leather construction.

$45
Leather Flip-Flops with Arch Support by Rainbow Sandals

The classic leather sandal that straddles the line between casual and warm-weather date night. The arch support has been easy foot pain for decades. Just don't get them too ratty and they'll be as versatile as their reputation suggests.

$54

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