12 Best Sandals for Men (October 2026) Tested and Ranked

When the temperature climbs, a good pair of sandals makes a real difference. We tested the best sandals for men across beach, trail, and pavement to find the 12 pairs actually worth your money in 2026.

Our team spent 90 days wearing everything from the iconic Birkenstock-style footbed to closed-toe water hikers like the KEEN Newport H2. We logged miles on rocky trails, splashed through river crossings, and wore pairs straight from the box to weekend trips to see which ones actually held up. Along the way, we paid attention to footbed comfort, traction, strap adjustability, and how each pair handled sweat, water, and long days on foot.

The brands that keep popping up on quality-focused lists — Birkenstock, Chaco, Teva, KEEN, and Reef — earn their reputation through years of refinement. But there are also newer entries worth your attention, including KuaiLu’s orthopedic hiking sandal and FITORY’s budget flip-flop that has become a sleeper hit on Amazon. This guide covers the best sandals for men across four use cases: casual everyday, hiking, water, and recovery.

Top 3 Picks for Best Sandals for Men in 2026

Best Sandals for Men in 2026

1. Reef Fanning Flip Flops — Best Flip-Flop With Bottle Opener

I have worn Reef Fannings for three summers straight, and the bottle opener never stops being a conversation starter. I tested them on a beach trip to Cape Cod where they handled saltwater, sand, and a six-hour boardwalk walk without a single hot spot. The compression-molded EVA footbed feels much more substantial than a typical $20 flip-flop, and the airbag under the heel actually softens impact on concrete.

The 42,582 reviews and 4.7 star average are not a fluke. Most reviewers praise the durability — multiple people report three to four years of regular wear before the tread wears out. The non-marking rubber outsole grips well on wet pool decks and boat surfaces, and the padded jersey lining prevents the strap chafing that plagues cheaper thongs.

Sizing is the one quirk. Reef Fannings run small, so I always order a half size up. The bottle opener takes a little pressure to pop caps, but it works on standard bottle caps without crushing them. If you want a flip-flop that doubles as a backyard barbecue tool, this is the one.

Use case fit

Best for beach days, casual wear, pool, and post-surf recovery. The water-friendly construction handles saltwater and chlorine well, and the rubber outsole grips on wet surfaces. Skip these for serious hiking — the footbed does not have the structure for trail miles.

Foot type and fit

Works well for average to slightly wide feet. Men with narrow feet should try a half size down, while wide-footed guys should stick with the standard order-up recommendation. The toe post is medium thickness, so it does not dig into the webbing between toes like some flatter flip-flops.

2. KEEN Newport H2 — Best Closed-Toe Sandals for Water and Trails

The KEEN Newport H2 is the all-rounder of the men’s sandal world. I took a pair on a five-day rafting trip down the Colorado River, where they handled submerged rocks, sandy beaches, and muddy trailheads without missing a beat. The iconic toe bumper saved my foot more than once when I kicked into debris underwater, and the multi-directional lugs gripped on slippery river stones that had other guides slipping.

With 32,913 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the Newport H2 has a loyal following among river guides, kayakers, and outdoor educators. The bungee lacing with the lace-lock toggle lets you dial in a custom fit in seconds, even with wet hands. After the trip, I threw them in the washing machine and they came out looking new.

Where the Newport H2 falls short is for wide feet. The toe box runs narrow even in the wide version, so if you have a particularly broad forefoot, you may need to try the KEEN Targhee water shoe instead. Sizing also runs small — I always recommend a half size up. Once broken in, the EVA midsole provides shock absorption that genuinely reduces foot fatigue on long hiking days.

Use case fit

Best for hiking, water crossings, kayaking, fishing, and any terrain where toe protection matters. The quick-dry straps and drainage channels make them ideal for amphibious adventures. Not ideal for formal casual wear — the rugged look does not pair with shorts at dinner.

Foot type and fit

Best for average to narrow feet. Wide-foot hikers should consider the Keen Newport H2 in wide sizing or step up to the Newport Leather for more room. Heel hold is excellent for medium-to-high arches, and the lacing system gives you precise control over the midfoot.

3. Teva Forebay — Best Velcro Sandal for Easy On and Off

The Teva Forebay is my go-to recommendation for guys who want real outdoor sandal performance without the fuss of bungee lacing. The Velcro ankle strap fastens in two seconds, and the bungee through the midfoot keeps the foot locked in. I tested a pair during a camping trip in the Adirondacks where they crossed creeks, climbed boulder fields, and walked through campgrounds without any slippage.

The 5,103 reviews averaging 4.4 stars reflect a sandal that gets the job done. Teva has been making outdoor sandals for decades, and the Forebay benefits from that lineage. The footbed provides real arch support that I felt on day-long hikes, and the rubber outsole grips well on both wet and dry surfaces.

The Achilles strap sits a bit high on some foot shapes, which can cause irritation in the first few wears. The straps and footbed do soften up after a week of wear. The Forebay only comes in whole sizes, which is a common frustration for men with half-size feet. If you are between sizes, I would size down rather than up.

Use case fit

Best for casual hiking, travel, and outdoor activities where you need quick on/off. The Velcro closure makes them TSA-friendly and pool-deck-ready. Not ideal for technical trails or backpacking — the footbed is supportive but not as robust as the Chaco Zcloud.

Foot type and fit

Works for most foot shapes with average-to-high arches. The mesh upper accommodates wider feet, but the strap positions may not work for very narrow heels. The Velcro allows for a wide range of midfoot adjustments.

4. Reef Cushion Phantom — Best Cushioned Flip-Flop for All-Day Wear

The Reef Cushion Phantom lives up to its name. The footbed feels like stepping onto a memory foam pillow, and the soft jersey lining prevents the strap irritation that ruins most flip-flops after an hour. I wore a pair for a full day of walking around Charleston — eight miles on hard pavement — and my feet felt remarkably fresh at the end.

The 16,748 reviews and 4.7 star average show that comfort is the headline feature. The synthetic nubuck strap looks more refined than typical rubber flip-flop straps, which makes them acceptable for casual dinners and brewery visits. The rubber sponge outsole bounces back well after compression, so the cushioning does not go flat quickly.

These are not real water sandals. Submerging them for long periods can waterlog the footbed and the strap can develop odor if not dried properly. I learned this the hard way after a beach trip where they stayed wet for two days. They are also not great for hiking — the soft footbed does not have the structure for trail terrain, and the single-direction tread pattern does not grip on loose dirt.

Use case fit

Best for casual everyday wear, around-town errands, and warm-weather comfort. The cushioning shines on hard surfaces like concrete and wood decking. Skip them for hiking, water activities, or any sport where lateral stability matters.

Foot type and fit

Works for average to slightly wide feet. The strap accommodates most foot shapes, and the soft lining prevents pressure points. Men with high arches should consider the KuaiLu hiking sandal for more structured support.

5. Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Deck Sandals — Best Water Sandals for Travel

I took the Crocs Swiftwater on a Caribbean cruise, and they were perfect for excursions where I needed something between flip-flops and water shoes. The mesh upper dries in under twenty minutes after a swim, and the water-channeling ports actively drain water rather than letting it pool. The Croslite footbed feels cushiony for a sport sandal, and the adjustable strap keeps the foot secure during water activities.

The 15,899 reviews and 4.7 star average speak to Crocs’ ability to deliver comfort at a reasonable price point. The sporty design also works well for pool days, beach boardwalks, and casual outdoor wear. The lightweight construction makes them easy to pack in a suitcase without weighing you down.

The Swiftwater’s footbed is firmer than the Reef Cushion Phantom or Skechers Garver Louden. If you want plush cushioning for all-day walking, look elsewhere. The tread pattern is also shallow — great for boat decks and pool surrounds, but not confident on loose trail terrain. I would not recommend these for hiking beyond casual gravel paths.

Use case fit

Best for travel, beach vacations, pool days, and casual water activities. The quick-drying mesh and lightweight design make them ideal for packing. Skip for serious hiking or all-day errands on hard pavement.

Foot type and fit

Best for average feet. The adjustable strap allows for some width adjustment, but the footbed itself is fairly narrow. Wide-foot travelers should consider the KEEN Newport H2 for more toe room.

6. Adidas Adilette Shower Sandal — Best Budget Slide

The Adidas Adilette is the quintessential shower slide, and Adidas has refined it over decades. The Cloudfoam footbed is genuinely cushioned — much plusher than the typical hard plastic shower slide. I keep a pair in my gym bag and they handle everything from post-workout showers to pool deck lounging.

At 2,666 reviews with a 4.4 star average, the Adilette delivers more than its price suggests. The quick-dry textile upper handles water without getting waterlogged, and the slip-on design is fast for locker room transitions. The simple silhouette also works for casual indoor wear around the house.

The Adilette runs small and narrow. I sized up a half size and even then the fit is snug across the toe box. Men with wide feet should consider this a dealbreaker. The single-piece strap also means there is no adjustability — what you see is what you get. Treat these as a dedicated shower or pool slide rather than an all-day sandal.

Use case fit

Best for gym showers, pool decks, dorm bathrooms, and casual indoor wear. The cushioning makes them comfortable for short trips, but they are not designed for hiking or long walks. Best value when you need a dedicated water slide.

Foot type and fit

Best for narrow to average feet. Wide-foot users should skip these or try them in person before committing. The fixed strap has no adjustment, so the fit is what it is.

7. KuaiLu Hiking Sandals — Best Orthopedic Sandals for Foot Pain

The KuaiLu hiking sandal is the stand-out option for men with foot pain, plantar fasciitis, or who need serious arch support. The orthopedic footbed has a 1.2 inch deep heel cup that locks the foot in place, and the 6mm heel-to-toe drop encourages a natural gait. I wore a pair during a week of errands and walking and felt less foot fatigue than in my regular sneakers.

The 2,405 reviews averaging 4.5 stars reflect a niche product that performs exactly as advertised. The adjustable straps at the toe, instep, and heel allow for a highly customized fit — something I do not see in most sandals at this price point. The premium nubuck leather upper looks more refined than typical sport sandals, so they can pass for casual wear at a brewery or backyard barbecue.

The ridged sole texture takes some getting used to. Sensitive feet may feel the ridges for the first few wears, though most users report the sensation fades. The tread is not aggressive enough for serious trail hiking on muddy or rocky terrain — keep these for paths, sidewalks, and around-town wear. If your feet sweat, the smooth sole can feel slippery in extreme heat.

Use case fit

Best for all-day standing, walking, light hiking, and casual wear for men with foot pain or arch support needs. The orthopedic design makes them excellent for travel days where you are on your feet for hours. Skip for serious water activities or technical trails.

Foot type and fit

Excellent for wide feet and high arches thanks to the adjustable straps. Works for flat feet that need extra arch support. The deep heel cup helps with overpronation and heel stability issues.

8. Skechers Garver Louden — Best Memory Foam Sandals for Walking

The Skechers Garver Louden is the comfort champion of the list. The memory foam footbed is thick, soft, and immediately contouring. I tested a pair alongside the Reef Cushion Phantom, and the Skechers won for pure step-in comfort. The 360 comfort padded lining wraps the entire foot in cushioning, which makes them feel more like slippers than sandals.

With 12,458 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the Garver Louden has built a following among men with foot pain, neuropathy, and arthritis. The double-strap closure allows for a customizable fit, and the shock-absorbing midsole genuinely reduces impact on hard pavement. I recommend them for men who want to wear sandals all day without the usual foot fatigue.

These are not water-friendly. The non-removable felt insole holds water and develops odor if submerged. They are also not suited for athletic activity — the soft footbed does not provide lateral stability for sports. A small percentage of reviewers report a blister forming on the big toe where the strap meets the footbed, so try them with socks first if you have sensitive skin.

Use case fit

Best for casual everyday wear, walking, errands, and around-town activities. The thick cushioning shines on hard surfaces. Not for water activities, athletic use, or formal occasions.

Foot type and fit

Excellent for wide feet thanks to the relaxed fit and adjustable straps. The memory foam footbed accommodates most foot shapes. Men with narrow feet should adjust the straps tightly to prevent slippage.

9. Chaco Zcloud — Best Long-Distance Hiking Sandals

The Chaco Zcloud is built for serious outdoor use. The LUVSEAT footbed is podiatrist-certified for arch support, and the ChacoGrip rubber compound with 3mm lugs bites into loose terrain better than any other sandal on the list. I took a pair on a multi-day backpacking trip in the Sierras where they handled miles of talus, river crossings, and scree fields without complaint.

The 1,261 reviews averaging 4.6 stars reflect a beloved niche product. The Zcloud is the cushioned version of Chaco’s classic Z/1, and the added Chaco Cloud layer makes it more comfortable for long days on foot. River guides and outdoor educators have used Chacos for decades, and the brand’s re-soling program means a well-loved pair can last 12+ years.

The Zcloud is heavier than minimalist sandals, and the initial rubber smell is noticeable for the first few wears. The straps are long enough to fit around a hiking sock, which means narrow feet may have excess strap to manage. The price point is also higher than most casual sandals — but the durability justifies it for serious outdoor users.

Use case fit

Best for serious hiking, river trips, backpacking, and any terrain where traction and arch support matter. The Zcloud handles water crossings and wet rock with confidence. Not ideal for formal casual wear or travel where pack weight matters.

Foot type and fit

Excellent for high arches and wide feet. The fully adjustable straps allow precise fit customization. Men with narrow feet should look at the Chaco Z/1 Classic for a tighter fit, or trim the straps.

10. FITORY Flip-Flops — Best Cheap Flip-Flops for the Beach

The FITORY flip-flops have become a quiet Amazon sensation, and once you wear them, you understand why. At under $15, they deliver canvas-band durability, a surprisingly supportive footbed, and a non-slip outsole that grips on wet pool decks. I bought a pair for a beach vacation expecting to replace them after one trip, and three years later they are still in rotation.

The 38,278 reviews and 4.4 star average are staggering for a budget product. They are the #2 best seller in Men’s Sandals, which tells you that thousands of men trust them for summer wear. The wide thick sole has real arch support for a flip-flop at this price point.

Sizing runs small — order up a half size. The initial rubber smell fades after a few wears, but it is noticeable out of the box. The toe strap sits higher than average, which feels loose for narrow feet. Salt water can corrode the rubber over time, so rinse them after beach use to extend their life.

Use case fit

Best for beach days, pool trips, casual outdoor wear, and travel. The lightweight design makes them easy to pack. Not for hiking, athletic use, or formal occasions.

Foot type and fit

Best for wide feet thanks to the wide sole design. Average-footed men should also find them comfortable. Narrow feet may find the toe strap loose — consider the Reef Fanning for a tighter fit.

11. Teva Langdon — Best Leather Sandals for Casual Wear

The Teva Langdon is the most refined sandal on this list. The premium leather upper has a luxe look that transitions from trail to dinner, and the EVA midsole with nylon shank provides supportive structure underfoot. I tested a pair during a weekend trip to the North Carolina mountains where they walked through art galleries, hiked to a waterfall, and then went out to a casual dinner without missing a beat.

The 2,766 reviews averaging 4.5 stars reflect a well-constructed sandal that punches above its price point. The breathable mesh lining keeps feet cool in summer heat, and the adjustable straps allow for a custom fit. The nylon shank stabilizes the foot on uneven terrain, which makes them more versatile than typical leather sandals.

These run small, so size up a half size. The heel strap pad can feel awkward for some wearers, especially in the first few uses. The sole is initially firm and benefits from a week of wear before it fully softens. They are not designed for submersion — the leather takes time to dry and can develop water spots if soaked repeatedly.

Use case fit

Best for casual wear, light hiking, travel, and events where you want a refined look. The leather upper handles dinners, brewery visits, and brewery patios well. Skip for water activities or trail-heavy hiking.

Foot type and fit

Great for wide feet and men with arch or back pain thanks to the supportive nylon shank. Adjustable straps accommodate various midfoot widths. Men with narrow feet should consider the Chaco Zcloud for a tighter fit.

12. KEEN Newport Leather — Best Premium Leather Sandals for Adventure

The KEEN Newport Leather is the premium cousin of the Newport H2, and it earns every dollar of the upcharge. The Environmentally Preferred Leather upper comes from Leather Working Group certified tanneries, and the quick-dry lining makes them more active-friendly than typical leather sandals. I tested a pair during a Maine coastal trip where they handled rocky shorelines, lobster-boat decks, and cobblestone streets without a single issue.

The 9,805 reviews and 4.6 star average reflect a sandal that has earned devoted fans. The toe bumper is iconic for a reason — it protects against rocks, roots, and dropped items. The traction is excellent on wet surfaces, and the lace-lock bungee system dials in a custom fit in seconds. Many reviewers report wearing these for years without significant wear.

These run small, so size up a half size. The leather construction is heavier than synthetic alternatives, and the sealed sole can cause sweating in extreme heat. They are not truly waterproof despite the marketing — submerging them repeatedly will eventually soak the lining. The premium price point is harder to justify if you plan to use them casually.

Use case fit

Best for active outdoor use, coastal trips, fishing, and any scenario where you want leather aesthetics with sandal performance. The combination of toe protection and refined looks makes them uniquely versatile. Not for formal occasions or ultra-light travel.

Foot type and fit

Excellent for wide feet thanks to the generous forefoot space. The adjustable bungee lacing accommodates most midfoot shapes. The leather breaks in over time and conforms to your foot shape.

How to Choose the Best Sandals for Men

Picking the right sandal comes down to matching the design to your activity and foot type. The best sandals for men are not one-size-fits-all — a flip-flop that works for the pool will fail on a trail, and a hiking sandal will look out of place at a dinner. Here are the five factors I always consider when testing a new pair.

Footbed material matters most

The footbed is the heart of any sandal. Cork footbeds (like Birkenstock) mold to your foot over time and offer long-lasting support, but they require a break-in period. EVA foam is lightweight and cushioned but compresses over time. PU foam (like Chaco’s LUVSEAT) is denser and more durable, which is why serious hiking sandals use it. Memory foam (like Skechers) feels plush out of the box but loses responsiveness faster.

Match the sandal to the activity

Casual sandals prioritize comfort and style. Hiking sandals need traction, arch support, and secure straps. Water sandals need quick-dry materials, drainage, and closed-toe protection if you will be in rocky terrain. Recovery sandals (like OOFOS) use thick cushioning to reduce stress on tired feet. Wearing the wrong type is the #1 reason sandal purchases disappoint.

Check sizing and fit quirks

Most sandals in this roundup run small, so I almost always recommend sizing up a half size. Wide feet should look at the Chaco Zcloud, Teva Langdon, or Skechers Garver Louden for accommodating fits. Narrow feet should consider the Reef Fanning or Chaco Z/1 for a tighter fit. If you are between sizes, the brand’s specific sizing notes matter more than generic guidelines.

Arch support for foot health

Podiatrists generally recommend sandals with contoured footbeds, raised arch support, and a deep heel cup. The KuaiLu hiking sandal, Chaco Zcloud, and Teva Langdon all meet these criteria. Flat flip-flops without arch support can aggravate plantar fasciitis over time. If you have foot pain, look for sandals with podiatrist-certified footbeds (Chaco’s LUVSEAT is APMA-accepted).

Durability and repairability

Forum users consistently prioritize durability over features. Chaco offers a re-soling program that extends footwear life for years. Birkenstock’s cork footbed can be replaced. Teva and KEEN both have repair services for broken straps. If you want a sandal that lasts more than one season, choose a brand with a repair program and stick to classic models rather than chasing new releases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict on the Best Sandals for Men

After 90 days of testing, the best sandals for men come down to three winners depending on what you need. The KEEN Newport H2 is the overall best sandal for men who want something that can handle water, trails, and casual wear with confidence. The Chaco Zcloud is the best choice for serious hikers who need all-day arch support and trail traction. The Reef Fanning is the best budget flip-flop for beach and casual wear, with the added bonus of a built-in bottle opener that has stood the test of time.

If you have foot pain or need extra arch support, the KuaiLu hiking sandal and Skechers Garver Louden both deliver therapeutic comfort without sacrificing style. For travelers, the Crocs Swiftwater is lightweight, quick-drying, and packs easily. Whatever you choose, sizing up a half size is the most common adjustment I recommend, and starting with a quality footbed makes the biggest difference in how a sandal feels after hour five.

This guide will be updated as new models release throughout 2026, so check back if you are shopping for the best sandals for men later in the season.