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Peak summer swelter is right around the corner, the time of the year when it’s so hot and so humid that most wardrobe options simply go out the window. Factor in the desire to keep activities outside—where blazing sun and lack of AC are punishing—and the motivation to shed layers is that much higher. Now is the time for the lightest weight cotton and linen, all types of shorts, and, perhaps most significantly, a pair or two of the best summer sandals.
What makes an ideal summer sandal? That depends on personal style, of course, but you also have to be mindful of functionality: It has to let your feet breathe (also key: a pedicure). This is why we’ve combed the market to find the best selections, ones that are a far cry from beach-only sandals of years past. From sporty, outdoor-ready pairs to elegant leather slides that can easily be worn with a tailored suit, we have 10 excellent styles just ready and waiting to be scooped up.
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Armando Cabral Manjak Leather Sandal
Before launching his own footwear brand, Armando Cabral was stomping down every major runway. He definitely knows how to make a statement with clothes and accessories. And these sandals, made of Italian calf leather, definitely does that.
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Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals
They’re classics for a reason. Let’s be honest: For all the tricks, trends and updates around, there’s something to be said for a shoe that fits just right, works with everything summer-related and is, without a doubt, comfortable.
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Suicoke + Carhartt WIP Moto-VCHT Logo-Jacquard, Canvas, and Corduroy Slides
When it comes to styles that are heavy-duty, that are built to withstand wear and tear, two names instantly come to mind: Suicoke and Carhartt. Now, the celebrated Japanese label and the standard-bearer of American workwear have joined forces on a sandals that’ll seriously last the long haul.
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The Row Leather Fisherman Sandals
Fisherman sandals are experiencing a renaissance, coming back into fashion fold in full force. But these aren’t the humble pieces from the days of yore. Now, the style has elevated, and this pair from the Row is a prime example.
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Brunello Cucinelli Grosgrain and Leather Flip-Flops
Minimal, elegant, to-the-point—these Brunello Cucinelli leather-and-grosgrain flip-flops take an everyday Hawaiian staple and infuse the Italian house’s clean, ultra-sophisticated style and craftsmanship.
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Burberry Check Arthur Sandals
These sandals are part sporty and all Burberry—that print is iconic in a way few things genuinely are. These are equally strong with a downtown vibe—say, Dickies and a hoodie from that Supreme Leigh Bowery release—or an OCBD.
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Grenson Quincy Leather Fisherman Sandals
English heritage brand Grenson has a way of perfecting staples, and this pair of mahogany leather sandals fit the bill. The brand’s Northamptonshire factory spends up to eight weeks crafting each pair based on generations-old techniques. Teamed with a Madras shirt and linen trousers, they’re a warm-weather essential for anyone whose style errs on the side of tradition.
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Gucci Web Rubber Slide Sandal
Leave it to Gucci to take the prototypical pool slide and elevate it beyond the basic. These would feel at home overlooking the water at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc (or simply around the house or backyard). If you pour some rosé and squint, it could almost pass for Antibes.
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Berlutti Sifnos Scritto Leather Slides
Long before Kris Van Assche injected a distanced cool into the brand and Haider Ackermann gave it his signature elegance, Berluti stood alone for its traditions—specifically in footwear. This hand scrawled leather sandal, classic and refined with just enough detailing to make it distinct, is a product of this long-standing heritage. Sport them with a full linen look for the ultimate in relaxed chic.
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Camper Match Sandal
A sports sandal offering that is made for outdoor activity but fashionable enough to wear in the city. The neon accents give it a slight techno rave appeal—even if Ibiza has to wait until next summer.
