Sandals, for many men, are a seasonal hurdle. But they’ve become a defining detail in warm-weather dressing. The style of sandal someone chooses can hint at everything from where they shop to how they pack, and whether they’ve ever had strong opinions on linen drawstring trousers.
Below, a considered look at six of the season’s key styles and what each one reveals about the wearer:
The Slides Guy
You like your clothes soft, dark, and preferably oversized. The slide sandal suits your lifestyle: unbothered, practical, with just enough structure to suggest that yes, you do think about design — but no, you don’t think about it too much.
Socks are optional, but likely. You’re either the most stylish person at the coffee shop or on your way to the gym in a way that feels curated rather than committed.
Style tells: Tonal tees, athletic shorts, rectangular sunglasses, a decent tote bag.
The Fisherman Revivalist
You like things that work: hardware that clicks, clothes with pockets, shoes that feel vaguely Mediterranean. The fisherman sandal is your go-to for everything from city strolls to evening spritzes.
You probably have strong opinions on linen, own more than one woven accessory, and you’ve at least bookmarked a slow hotel somewhere near the Amalfi Coast.
Style tells: Rolled chinos, breezy shirts, navy and sand tones, a canvas holdall with character.
The Criss Cross Purist
If you wear criss cross sandals, you’re interested in silhouette. You likely prefer fewer items, worn well, and consider the inside hem of a shirt as important as the outside.
These are sandals for someone who wants to look refined without saying much. They are often paired with clean tailoring, soft fabrics, and nothing remotely fussy.
Style tells: Short-sleeved shirts with structure, relaxed trousers, a minimalist watch, nothing louder than oat.
The Double Strap Realist
You’re not chasing trends. But you are observant. You’ve likely worn this style for years and are quietly pleased the rest of the world has caught up. Arch support matters. So does a good rubber sole.
This is the sandal equivalent of owning a well-made backpack: understated, reliable, built for real use — and secretly respected by those who know.
Style tells: Camp-collar shirts, soft tailoring, short socks in thoughtful neutrals.
The Luxe Thong Nomad
You know how to summer. Your clothes are wrinkle-resistant because they’ve already been worn on a plane, and your sandals are soft and luxurious.
The crossover thong is a warm-weather wildcard. It’s too relaxed for the office, too elegant for the pool, but ideal for anything in between. You probably like things that don’t announce themselves. But still, you’re happy when people notice.
Style tells: Matching sets, woven belts, light suiting, sunglasses that suit your face.
The Classic Flip-Flopper
You’re not here to complicate things. A pair of flip-flops does what it needs to do: slides on, slides off, no explanation required. You don’t want your sandals to be a statement. You want them to be serviceable.
That said, you still pick the good ones. Clean lines, decent leather, no big branding. You’re breezy, but thought through.
Style tells: Striped shorts, soft T-shirts, unbuttoned overshirts, a faint tan.
A Word on Sandal Diplomacy
The best thing about sandals? You don’t need a category. You just need a reason. Whether you’re crossing cobblestones, pacing the beach, or sipping something cold in a friend’s backyard, the right pair will take you far — and say plenty, even before you speak.
