When you need to turn on the AC to feel any semblance of coolness on your skin, know that blazing summer has arrived, which means wearing closed-toe shoes is not going to be an option anymore. When you have to be out all day, running errands, meeting friends, going to the beach, wearing your favourite sneakers or leather shoes throughout the day might give your feet blisters, bacteria and odour, and moreover, it is just plain uncomfortable.
That is why sandals are a trusted summer companion. Sandals have been a major part of human history. Records dating back thousands of years indicate that most cultures worldwide usually wore sandals for footwear. The oldest known sandal dates back 10,900 years. From the neolithic caveman to the modern urban city-dweller, sandals for men have been the common way to keep their feet protected and cool during harsh summers.
Human civilisation has come a long way, from hand-weaving plant material like sagebrush bark to today’s sandals made of leather, rubber and other materials with the help of machines, laser cut to perfection.
Wearing sandals lets your toes breathe, and your foot feels the cool air on its skin. Keep the bulky, sweaty sneakers aside and get your hands on these breezy summer-ready sandals for men to keep cool when the temperatures soar.
1. Flip-Flops
The most common type of sandals you will come across are flip-flops. Also called the ‘beach sandals’ or ‘thong sandals’, they have a strap that settles in between your toes and goes up and around either side of your foot in a Y shape. People usually wear flip-flops inside the house when they don’t want to wear closed-toe shoes, on the beach, by the pool, or when stepping out of the house for some light walking.
2. Sliders
Sliders are the latest fashion footwear. They are usually made of rubber or cork soles with a big, wide strap going up and over the middle of the foot; or two-buckled straps going over the foot. As the name suggests, you just have to slide your foot in and are ready to go.
Sliders are streetwear approved, and they have also been worn with socks by many, a fact that has been in much debate in the fashion community. Sliders should be your go-to if you want to let your toes feel the air. Buy a pair of funky bright-coloured sliders and wear them with shorts, streetwear or an athleisure outfit. Cork-soled, buckled sliders in dark colours pair perfectly with jeans and a shirt for a casual look.
3. Leather Sandals
One of the most comfortable footwear, a good quality leather sandal can elevate any casual outfit to the next level. These can come in a variety of designs and shapes. The general rule with leather sandals is to not wear them in a high-moisture area since leather can get damaged or deteriorate quickly. Invest in a pair of high-quality leather sandals for men and wear them to any afternoon brunch, get-together, party and more. These go best with an outfit including a shirt and slim-fit chinos. With regular maintenance and cleaning, leather sandals will last you years.
4. Gladiator Sandals
Invented in ancient Rome, gladiator sandals return to fashion every few seasons. Roman gladiators used to wear these sandals to war due to the footwear’s durability and added feet protection. Gladiator sandals for men have thick soles, and various straps with gaps in between that go over the foot with a buckle or two holding the footwear up at the ankle. Gladiator sandals go best with linen pants.
5. Water Sandals
Did you know, you can also find sandals that are made especially to be worn underwater or by the beach, river or any other waterbody? The water sandals have a much higher traction and grip to help you stay steady on slippery surfaces near water. These have similar traction to that of hiking shoes. If you like to wander around rivers or lakes or are not afraid of taking a dip any time of the day, then a water sandal for men should be an excellent choice.
6. Athletic Sandals
Athletic sandals are made specially keeping various physical activities in mind, such as long-distance walking, hiking, running, marathons, exercising and more. When you want the same level of comfort and performance, the sports shoes offer, during soaring temperatures, opt for the breathable sports sandals for men. They have a cushioned footbed and are made for all-day wear. If you want a pair of sandals that you can wear casually every day, go with athletic sandals since they provide the most comfort.
7. Dress Sandals
It is a common misconception that formal occasions have a compulsory dress code that bars any other footwear apart from dress shoes. If you don’t want the typical heat associated with closed-toe, lace-up dress shoes but still want to follow the dress code, opt for dress sandals.
These sandals are similar to dress shoes, with a closed toe and front with a sleek strap at the back. Dress sandals for men are a great way to look sophisticated, classy and stylish when styled with a smart suit.
8. One-Toe Sandals
As the name suggests, this sandal has two straps crisscrossing the big toe with a strap that goes around the ankle, usually with a buckle or Velcro closure. The rest of your toes do not have any straps blocking the air, and the loop around the big toe helps keep the foot in place. One-toe sandals for men are best worn casually with linens or shorts.
Conclusion
Sandals are coming back in style once again. While they were looked down upon in the past, the newer generation is embracing the freedom that comes with wearing sandals. Sandals are much more summer-friendly and keep your feet cool and healthy. Perfect for outings, vacations, and get-togethers, if you want footwear that is light, comfortable, and airy, choose a pair of sandals for men.
