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June 1st Edition

Cory Ohlendorf

If you're still resisting sandals, it's time to reconsider. We tested dozens of pairs and found the best options for every style, budget and comfort preference.

- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor in Chief ⋯ @coryohlendorf

 

The New Rules of Men's Sandals

If you're still uncomfortable sliding into a pair of sandals, we're here to slap you on the proverbial back and say “Get with it, man!” The days of viewing sandals as either something your dad wore on vacation or a necessary evil for poolside lounging are long gone. No matter where your preferences land on the toes-out spectrum, today’s coolest crop of sandals makes a compelling case for embracing a little fresh air this summer. Sleeker, more versatile and far more stylish than you remember, they’ve evolved from a niche warm-weather option into a legitimate cornerstone of a well-dressed guy’s wardrobe.

You could argue we’re living through a golden age of sandals. First came the Birkenstock revival, followed by sporty Velcro-strapped hikers and easygoing mules. Now, designers and heritage brands alike are turning out sophisticated options crafted from supple leathers, refined suedes and thoughtfully engineered materials that feel every bit as considered as your favorite loafers or sneakers. In other words, the category has never offered more range. To help narrow the field, we put our collective feet to work, testing dozens of pairs across every style and price point before distilling the lineup down to the very best sandals a man can buy in 2026.

Our Picks

Castañer Suede sandal,
$160 at MR PORTER

 

Zane sandal,
$158 at Ralph Lauren

 

Criss-cross sandal,
$160 / $110 at Banana Republic

 

Astorflex Haichflex sandal,
$198 at Huckberry

Suede cross-strap sandal,
$150 / $79.99 at G.H. Bass

 

Birkenstock Arizona oiled leather sandal,
$139.95 at Zappos

5 Stylish Items to Buy This Week

Don’t want to give up your black denim in the summer? These linen pants ($255) are the swap you need. Made in Japan, the linen mélange twill fabric gives them texture and drape, while the relaxed fit feels effortless without crossing into sloppy. They’re the kind of pants that work equally well with loafers and a camp shirt or sneakers and a simple tee. Lightweight, breathable, and deceptively versatile, they make getting dressed when it’s hot and humid feel a whole lot easier.

See all 5 products »

Smart Buys

The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.

 

This brushed heavyweight cotton jersey T-shirt looks and feels like the perfect vintage find, but it’s cut in a more modern fit with a boxy body and slightly cropped waist.

$49.95 / $9.98
by Gap

 

These vintage-inspired shades have lightweight lenses that are impact-resistant and the Mazzucchelli acetate for the frames comes from a family-run Italian manufacturer.

$235 / $117
by Oscar Deen

 

This might be summer’s coolest shirt. Literally. The comfortable short-sleeve popover is cut from a breezy cotton-blend gauzy fabric, available in five colorways.

$65 / $54.99
by Abercrombie & Fitch

 

Want more?
See all 30 sales »

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A beautiful blue lacquer dial with golden specks makes this model both striking and classy, and a great way to dip your toes into the world of the Tank 💙⁠

 
 

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