Let’s be honest — sandals don’t always get the respect they deserve.
When people talk about footwear, they jump to sneakers or loafers. But in real life, especially in India’s heat, a good pair of sandals can be your most-used shoe — perfect for travel, daily errands, and even casual hangouts.
The problem? Most people buy sandals just for comfort, not realizing they can actually look stylish too.
So, let’s fix that. Here’s my honest take on the types of sandals, how to style them right, and what to actually buy this year.
How Many Types of Sandals Exist?
There are five main types of men’s sandals — each made for a different vibe or lifestyle.
Sports Sandals
Lightweight, durable, and made for all-day wear.
Usually have adjustable straps and cushioned soles.
Best for: Travel, long walks, or daily summer wear.
Pro tip: Look for anti-slip soles and Velcro closures — super practical in monsoons.
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Leather Sandals
Classic, timeless, and comfortable.
Made with genuine or faux leather and go well with ethnic or smart-casual outfits.
Best for: Daily wear, office casuals, or traditional events.
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Fisherman Sandals
Closed-toe design with breathable gaps.
A mix of shoe structure + sandal comfort.
Best for: Those who prefer covered feet but still want airflow.
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Slides / Slippers
Open-toe, slip-on sandals — zero effort, full comfort.
Best for: Home, airport, college, or quick outings.
Note: Trendy now — especially with brands adding minimal or logo designs.
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Kolhapuri & Ethnic Sandals
Traditional Indian leather sandals with handcrafted detailing.
Best for: Kurtas, ethnic events, or festive wear.
Pro tip: Tan or brown shades look classiest.
What to Look for When Buying Sandals
| Feature | Why It Matters | My Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Sole Grip | Keeps you steady on wet or tiled floors | Textured rubber sole is a must |
| Material | Impacts comfort and sweat control | PU, EVA, or soft leather for breathability |
| Fit & Straps | Decide comfort for long hours | Adjustable Velcro or buckle straps |
| Looks | Sandals can be stylish too | Stick to black, brown, or tan for easy pairing |
| Cushioning | Saves your heels during long days | Foam or EVA midsole feels soft and supportive |
Mistakes Most People Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Wearing sandals everywhere. Some places just need closed shoes — don’t overuse them.
Ignoring fit. Loose straps cause blisters; tight ones leave marks.
Going for loud colors. Bright orange sandals might look cool online, not in real life.
Mixing styles. Don’t wear sporty sandals with formal or ethnic outfits.
Skipping foot hygiene. Sandals expose your feet — keep them clean and moisturized!
My Honest Brand Recommendations (2025 Picks)
Under ₹1000: Sparx, Paragon, Relaxo — budget-friendly, reliable, and lightweight.
₹1000–₹2500: Bata, Campus, Action, Red Tape — comfortable and stylish options for everyday wear.
₹2500–₹5000: Hush Puppies, Woodland, Clarks — great cushioning and premium build.
Ethnic Picks: Kolhapuri Center, Mochi, Khadim’s — perfect for festive and traditional fits.
Pro Tip: For city life or travel, go for sports sandals with cushioned soles. For events or office-casual looks, leather or Kolhapuri styles win every time.
How to Style Sandals (Without Looking Lazy)
Sports Sandals → with shorts, joggers, or cargo pants for a travel-ready vibe.
Leather Sandals → with chinos, linen shirts, or kurtas for a neat, everyday look.
Slides → with jeans or relaxed-fit pants and a basic tee for casual comfort.
Kolhapuris → with ethnic wear like kurta–pyjama or Nehru jacket sets.
Avoid wearing sandals with formal trousers — it always looks mismatched. Stick to casual or ethnic vibes only.
💬 My Final Verdict
Sandals are the underrated heroes of men’s footwear.
You don’t realize their value until you find a pair that’s lightweight, grippy, and stylish enough to wear everywhere.
If you’re buying one in 2025 — pick sports sandals for comfort and leather sandals for class.
That one combo can take you from your morning errands to evening gatherings without ever needing to switch shoes.
So yeah — they may not scream “fashion,” but when chosen right, sandals are pure confidence and comfort — no socks needed.