What are the Best Sandals for Summer

Summer is all about sunshine and carefree days, and it all gets even better with the perfect footwear. Sandals are the obvious go-to for comfort and breathability. This guide will help you discover the best summer sandals for women and men, making it easy to pick the perfect pair to keep your feet happy all summer long.

What are the different sandal styles?
Sandals come in just about all shapes and sizes. Some are casual and practical, perfect for a summer picnic. Others are all about style, perfect for a dash of elegance on a day or night out. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the main sandal styles you’re likely to find:

• Flat sandals: Practical, comfortable and great for wearing just about anywhere.

• Heeled sandals: From low heels to sky-high options, heeled sandals add a touch of elegance in no time.

• Slides: Casual slip-ons, great for beaches and pools, or just everyday.

• Gladiator sandals: Multi-strap, statement sandals that lace up the leg, designed to make a statement.

• Sport sandals: Rugged sandals built for those outdoor summer adventures and long walks.

• Wedge sandals: Sandals with wedge-shaped heels for comfort and height.

• Thong sandals (Flip-flops): Simple sandals ideal for everyday summer hangouts.

• Platform sandals: Elevated soles without traditional heels.

• Espadrille sandals: Relaxed, chic sandals with woven or rope soles.
   

And while stylish sandals for both men and women are summer classics, boots deserve a mention too. Summer boots—often, ankle boots—can mean a bold summer style statement. They look amazing with shorts, skirts, or breezy dresses and go from day to night with ease.

Choosing the right sandals for your summer wardrobe

No matter what style of sandal you’re after, here are some elements to consider to make sure you get a quality, comfortable shoe.

• Padding and support: Consider the shoe’s cushioning, arch support, and the materials it’s made of.

• Functionality: If you're spending time at the beach or pool, waterproof slides or flip-flops are super practical. Day-long summer trips, meanwhile, will call for a cushioned, comfy shoe that supports.

• Occasion: Match your sandals to your plans. Casual days suit flat sandals or slides, while heeled sandals or wedge sandals are perfect for events.

• Style: Neutral colours like tan, black, or white match everything. For bold looks, pick vibrant colours or metallic finishes.
   

While there are lots of options for ladies, men's summer sandals also come in tons of styles. From slides to flip-flops and sport sandals, all are great, popular choices as the weather warms up.
 

What are flat sandals?
Combining comfort and style, flat sandals are a staple for summer. Super comfy, they’re great for long walks, easy outings, or beach days. Here are some popular flat sandal styles:
 

Classic Slides
Slides are flat sandals with a single, broad strap across the foot. They're extremely easy to wear—just slip them on and go. Rubber slides are ideal for poolside relaxing, while leather or fabric slides are great for just about anywhere around town. Looking for the perfect men's summer sandals? Slides might be one of the most versatile choices.

Thong Sandals (Flip-flops)
These are the ultimate casual sandals. A simple sole with a Y-shaped strap makes thong sandals quick to throw on, whenever you’re heading out. They're ideal for the beach or quick errands, but aren’t the best for long walks due to their limited support. Opt for cushioned footbeds if you plan to wear them often.

Gladiator Sandals
With multiple straps crisscrossing the foot, gladiators offer high style with a historical twist. These sandals can range from ankle-high to knee-high. They’re great to pair with shorts or summer dresses when you’re looking for statement style.

Sport Sandals
Perfect for active days, sport sandals have supportive soles, adjustable straps, and a great grip. Depending on the style, they’re the perfect pick for hikes and walks. These sandals often come with arch support and extra cushioning, so you stay comfy on any adventure.

Looking to get a pair of flat sandals that will last and keep you comfy day long? Check the sole thickness, sole flexibility and arch support. Flat sandals in neutral colors like brown, black, or tan are some of the most versatile and match almost everything in your summer wardrobe.

What are heeled sandals?
Heeled sandals are perfect when you want to lift your style—literally. They're fantastic for events, dinners, or anytime you want to dress up a casual outfit. Looking for what sandals to wear with summer dresses, or other summer outfits? Consider the heel height and event type. Block heels or wedges are ideal for outdoor events or casual outings. Kitten heels and stilettos suit more formal occasions or evening events. Here are some of the most common types:

Block Heel Sandals
Block heels offer stability, making them some of the comfiest and easiest to walk in. Pair block heels with summer dresses or skirts for a look that’s polished but still comfy. They are a top choice for summer sandals for women if you’re heading off to an event like a wedding, or party, but are equally at home at more casual events like brunches.

Wedge Sandals
Wedges are heels with a continuous raised sole. They offer better balance (and often, comfort) than traditional heels, with a lot of style baked in. Espadrille wedges, featuring woven rope detailing, pair beautifully with sundresses, linen pants and shorts. They're a classic choice for sunny vacations or casual summer gatherings and backyard barbeques.

Kitten Heels
Kitten heels are small, slim heels usually no more than two inches high. They add a touch of sophistication without sacrificing comfort. Kitten heels are versatile enough for the office, dinners, or special occasions, and they're a fantastic option for anyone who wants elegance without a towering heel.

Stiletto Sandals
Stilettos have slender, high heels that add drama and elegance. They are perfect for formal summer events or glamorous evenings out. However, stilettos offer less stability and comfort, making them better suited for shorter periods of wear. Choose stilettos with straps around the ankle or instep to improve comfort and support.

In short, summer sandals, whether flat, heeled, sporty, or chic, set the tone for your seasonal style. Knowing what sandals to wear with everything from poolside outfits to summer dresses or casual shorts makes dressing easy when the warm weather hits. At Timberland, we’ve got dozens of stylish and comfy sandals for men and women, so you can make the most of the balmy days ahead.