This article is part of Spring Fashion Month, where we’re breaking down your must-have fashion pieces for the next few months. From denim jackets to comfy sandals, we’re asking editors, influencers and experts about the go-to pieces they wear through spring and beyond.
Considering all they do for you, your feet deserve a breather. Cooling your feet also helps regulate body temperature, so summer sandals are a win-win.
Some slides were made for the locker room, while others could walk you from the beach to the country club. We tapped style experts for their favorite pairs of men’s sandals to buy now, along with top-rated picks from our favorite retailers.
“Suicoke makes some of the coolest premium sandals out now,” says Nordstrom men’s fashion and editorial director Jian DeLeon. “Our exclusive version of their Depa V2 sandal adds a checkerboard pattern to the durable nylon strap, available in an ’80s-inspired black and white version, or my personal favorite, a more muted black and charcoal gray.”
“The Chaco Chillos not only feature an adjustable strap up top, but the footbed is ergonomically designed to promote a healthy body alignment,” DeLeon says. “And of course, they’re comfortable from the first wear.”
“A classic sandal that has a cult following among Grateful Dead fans and outdoors-obsessed menswear enthusiasts, the Keen Uneek’s bungee cord upper ensures a custom fit to your foot,” DeLeon says.
Although known more for their cult favorite boots, Dr. Marten’s also makes a selection of sandals in their signature style. These leather sandals are the perfect balance of casual and chic with adjustable straps and AirWair soles for comfort.
Outlasting trends, the trusted German brand has been outfitting American feet for decades. Birkenstocks remain a staple that combine comfort, utility and style.
Hand-stitching and exceptional comfort make Olukai’s leather flip-flops a customer favorite.
These sleek leather Anthony Veer leather slides provide the comfort of traditional slip-ons with a trendy touch making them ideal for home wear or warm weather outings.
Tried and true, Nike’s Benassi slides are perennial favorites for their ease and affordability.
Adidas has outfitted generations of men in water-friendly footwear. The nostalgia factor is tough to beat.
Comfortable, versatile and indestructible, Birkenstock Arizona Evas are a beach and poolside must-have.
Keen’s Evofit One is a favorite among outdoorsmen for its versatility and comfort, whatever the day has in store.
Chaco’s Z1 consistently gets high marks from hikers who put them to the test out on the trail.
The Hoka One Ora Recovery Slide 3 “looks like a time machine that came from the future just to make your feet even more comfortable,” DeLeon says of this pair, meant to help runners recover. “Its forward-thinking design has even served as the inspiration for luxurious runway reinterpretations.”
Another brand that has held the line on form and function in the face of trends, Teva makes go-to footwear for all variety of outdoor adventures.
With memory foam insoles and a relaxed fit, these Dockers are a customer favorite for extraordinary comfort and affordability.
“Merrell’s Hydro Mocs are what I would call a more grown-up Croc,” DeLeon says. “The sleeker design and fun colors toe the line between dad-inspired style and things dads actually wear.”
“I can’t recommend the Birkenstock Boston enough; I have a ton of pairs myself and wear them everywhere,” DeLeon says. “The closed toe gives them a bit of an elegant touch, but like any Birkenstock, they truly get more comfortable after each wear.”
• Related: The 23 best men shorts for summer, according to style experts
If it’s brand recognition you’re after, Gucci’s signature hues are unmistakable.
Available in seven shades, these Bottega Veneta slides are made of 100% rubber making them super comfy and easy to keep looking pristine.
Looking for more foot coverage? These Balenciaga mules have molded rubber footbeds for all day comfort and are polished enough to wear with almost any outfit.