It seemed only a while back that sandals on men were a definite no-no, but times are changing. This spring/summer season, even the most highbrow of labels including the likes of Maison Margiela, Bottega Veneta and Kenzo deigned to put sandals on the runway – occasionally paired with socks, god forbid. As it appears, the open-toed look no longer seems to be confined to the locker room. Yet the sandals making an appearance nowadays aren’t your regulation flip flops and ratty old Birkenstocks. Featuring luxurious leather straps and minimalist colorways, they exude elegance more so than your plebian plastic pool slide. We’ve taken the liberty of rounding up the best open-toed kicks on the market to give you happy feet this summer.
Hombre Nino Sharksole Sandal
This is for the man who would usually slip on a chestnut leather loafer on the way out the door. Featuring a tasteful sand suede upper, these kicks infuse the two-strap sandal silhouette with an air of elegance – perfect for the typically formal gentleman who wants to dress down.
UNDERCOVER Studs Sandals
These may seem like your typical humdrum flip flops from afar, but don’t turn away just yet. UNDERCOVER’s Jun Takahashi has a knack for bringing a subtle edge to every piece he creates, and looking closely, you’ll see that the straps of the black sandals are adorned with tonal pyramids, taking the kicks from poolside to the streets.
KEEN Men’s UNEEK Monochrome
Made for the adventurer who likes to keep things sleek, these Keen sandals are built with a versatile and flexible construction in a pure all-white colorway. The innovative design features an upper built from braided nylon cord, allowing for maximum movement but durability at the same time. With these unique sandals, you’ll definitely be stepping out in style this summer.
Suicoke DEPA-V2 Sandals
Japanese footwear purveyor Suicoke has been a go-to brand for sandals this summer, and the DEPA-V2 is one of their must-have silhouettes. Featuring a durable Vibram sole and ergonomic and cushioned footbed, the sandal is finished with nylon straps in a minimalist grey shade. Pair with slim black sweats for a relaxed but clean-cut look.
Diamond Supply Co. Black Fairfax Slide
There’s no place for these slides other than on your feet, next to a sparkling turquoise swimming pool. These sandals from Diamond Supply Co. are made with a simplistic one-piece construction, embellished only with the brand’s diamond emblem rendered in minimalist lines. Time to up your poolside game with these beauties.
VALLIS BY FACTOTUM Two Way Sandals With Vibram Sole
Jumping onto the open-toed bandwagon, VALLIS BY FACTOTUM presents an elegant interpretation of the chunky sandal trend. These kicks are crafted with a thick Vibram sole and pebbled leather straps, finished off with elegant silver tone hardware. The versatile straps can be done up in two ways, changing up your summer style.
PANTONE UNIVERSE Formentera 2 Buckle Sandals
When looking up to brighten up your footwear game, where better to look than the leading authority of color, Pantone? These kicks are made in Pantone’s 15-599 Turquoise shade, a color that evokes Mexican beaches and sparkling azure waters. Perfect to strike a contrast with your summer whites.
