Sandals often rank as the unsung heroes in a man’s shoe collection. Stylish and comfortable sandals differ in many styles, so you have to get the right one to elevate your look as you keep your feet in comfort.
Now, in this blog, we’ll go about different types of sandals for men, styling tips, and how to choose the perfect pair for various needs and occasions.
What do sandals for men offer?
Primarily, sandals are synonymous with summer. There’s, however, much more to it than the beach. Here’s why every man should have at least one pair:
- Breathability: Sandals are open-toed shoes in which air circulation occurs, so your feet remain cool and don’t have issues like sweat and stinky smell.
- Comfort: Most sandals are made with comfort in mind. They feature cushioned footbeds and straps that adjust around the shape of your foot.
- Ease of Use: Slip-on designs have made sandals incredibly easy to wear daily.
- Versatility: With a variety of styles, you can dress up or dress down sandals for a casual outing or even an informal evening event.
- Travel-friendly: Very light and easy to pack, sandals are ideal for travel purposes, especially if one intends to go to warmer climates, where comfort and convenience are key.
Types of Men’s Sandals
Not all sandals are in the same category. Some sandals will suit your lifestyle better, depending on the type of activity and personal preferences you have toward your sandals. Here are the major types of sandals:
- Flip-Flops
Flip flops are the most laid-back style of sandal, having a Y-shaped strap between the toes. They are light and effortless to wear and are perfect for beaches or poolside. However, they might not be able to support your feet for long walks or more strenuous activities.
- Best for Beach outings, pool days, lounging at home
- Style tip: Pair with swim trunks, board shorts, or casual summer wear for a relaxed vibe.
- Slides
Slide sandals are characterized by a single strap that goes across the top of the foot. They offer a bit more support than flip-flops and are great for casual occasions. With athleisure, slides are now cool for everyday wear.
- Best for Casual daywear, running errands, gym-to-street style
- Style tip: Wear it with joggers, athletic shorts, or even chinos for a sporty yet polished look.
- Gladiator Sandals
For ancient Roman inspiration, gladiator sandals have multiple straps that can reach the ankles or higher. They’re perfect for those who want to dress to impress and give a rugged elegance to their outfit.
- Best for Festivals, outdoor events, summer parties
- Style tip: Pair them with cargo shorts or linen pants for a relaxed, boho-inspired look
- Sport Sandals
For the outdoor enthusiast, sports sandals provide maximum support and grip. Some feature adjustable straps for a secure hold. They also offer cushioned footbeds to ensure comfort during long hikes or water activities.
- Best for hiking, camping, water sports, and adventurous travel.
- Style tip: Pair them with cargo shorts or trekking pants for an instantly outdoorsy look.
- Fisherman Sandals
Fisherman sandals have a closed toe and woven strapping, and they allow air circulation underneath the closed toe. They are perfect for those who enjoy wearing sandals but need a bit more foot coverage.
- Best for Casual outings, walking tours, and everyday summer wear.
- Style tip: Team with jeans or khakis for an extremely relaxed yet classy look.
- Leather Sandals
Even a bare-minimalist single-strap leather sandal doesn’t exclude elegance, and class-it’s suitable for more formal or semi-formal events. Expensive materials are usually employed, and various designs run from simple single straps to highly complex multi-strap configurations.
- Best for Evening events, casual office settings, and smart-casual outings
- Wearing suggestions: Pair with tailored shorts, linen trousers, or even a lightweight summer suit.
Choose the right pair of sandals for men with these tips
Choosing the perfect pair of sandals may be dependent on factors such as comfort, style, occasion, and support for your feet. Here is what to look out for:
- Comfort: Consider cushioned footbeds and arch support if you are going to wear them most of the time.
- Material: The most common materials used in sandals include leather, rubber, and synthetic. Leather is said to give a more elegant look, while rubber and synthetic are used sometimes due to their water resistance and durability.
- Fit: Good-fitting sandals must be snug but comfortable. Adjustable straps can be adapted to get the ideal fit.
- Occasion: Different sandals suit different occasions. Flip-flops are simply ideal for casual situations, while leather sandals can be worn on more formal occasions.
- Durability: Always look for shoes that have tough rubber soles and strong construction, especially when you use them for outdoor activities
How to Style Men’s Sandals
It might seem simple to style sandals for men. But there are some guiding rules to ensure you dress properly and not too casually:
- Don’t Wear Socks: This is a no-brainer. Sandals and socks don’t work together, especially during a nice day when you would want your feet bare for a clean and effortless look.
- Trim Your Toenails: You may wish to show off your feet. So keep them nice and tidy. Cut down your toenails and clean them.
- Match Your Sandals to Your Outfit: Casual sandals, such as flip-flops or slides, pair well with shorts or swimsuits. You can also wear leather or fisherman sandals for chinos or tailored shorts.
- Occasion: Sandals are versatile, yet not suitable for every occasion. Save them for casual or smart-casual settings rather than formal events.
Conclusion: Step Up Your Style with the Right Sandals
For men, sandals go beyond just being a comfortable footwear option. They are versatile style statements that can be worn up or down. Whether you prefer flip-flops for the beach, semi-formal leather sandals for a party, or sports sandals for an outdoor adventure, the right sandals would make your feet happy and enhance your look. By understanding different types, choosing one that fits your needs, and styling them appropriately, you can make sandals a stylish staple in your footwear collection.
So, do not be afraid to try out something new and experiment with different looks. From the massive collection of men’s sandals at Shoe Connection AU’s online store, you will find just the perfect pair for any occasion. So step into this summer with confidence and discover the perfect pair to suit your style and lifestyle.