Sandals are an essential part of a light and airy summer wardrobe, and their shape determines their appearance, comfort, and ease of putting them on and taking them off. In this article, we’ve categorized sandals into six types based on their shape and explain the characteristics of each. Focusing on long-standing classics, we’ve carefully selected and introduce high-quality models that feature meticulous attention to materials, craftsmanship, and design.
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First, Let’s Look at the Differences in Shape and StructureThere Are Six Main Types of Sandals
Sandals range from sporty styles that prioritize functionality to sleek, dressy styles reminiscent of leather shoes, as well as casual styles that are easy to slip on and off.To choose a pair that matches your everyday outfits, it’s important to understand the characteristics of each type. In the gallery below, we’ve categorized the sandals covered in this article into six types based on their shape and present them alongside images.
A style featuring straps that support the instep and heel. They provide a secure fit and are very comfortable to walk in.
A style that covers the toes while leaving the heel open. They’re easy to slip on and off and add just the right amount of flair to your look.
A style where the strap goes between the big toe and the index toe. They are characterized by a light, airy, and open feel.
A style where you slip your foot in from the front. They’re easy to put on and take off, and their appearance varies greatly depending on the material and design.
A style featuring leather straps arranged in a woven pattern that covers the foot from the toe to the instep. They combine the refined look of leather shoes with excellent breathability.
A style that features a sole and upper construction similar to those of sneakers. It combines the breathability of sandals with the stability of sneakers.
Attractive for Their Comfort and Wide Range of Designs1. Strap Sandals
Strap sandals, which support the foot from the instep to the heel with straps, offer both a lightweight feel and stability while walking.The selection ranges from sporty models with nylon straps to elegant models finished in leather. Since the impression changes depending on the width and placement of the straps as well as the thickness of the sole, you’ll want to choose a pair that suits your intended use and preferred style.
Strap Sandal 1BIRKENSTOCK ‘Milano’
BIRKENSTOCK’s “Milano” features two instep straps combined with a wide ankle strap.The thick, oiled nubuck leather develops a richer luster the more you wear and care for it, giving each pair a unique character over time. Combining a cork footbed designed to conform to the shape of your foot with a lightweight EVA outsole, it balances the substantial feel of a leather sandal with exceptional comfort and ease of walking.
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Strap Sandals 2SUICOKE ‘KISEE’
SUICOKE’s “KISEE” is a staple model of the brand, featuring slim tape straps arranged in a three-dimensional pattern.Cushioned neoprene is used on the underside of the straps to ensure a soft feel against the foot. It features a footbed made of low-rebound EVA foam and a lightweight outsole. This shoe combines functional elements with a clean, streamlined silhouette.
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Strap Sandals 3Teva 'HURRICANE XLT3'
Teva’s “HURRICANE XLT3” is an updated version of the long-standing, popular predecessor.While retaining the Universal Strap System that allows for three-point fit adjustment, the topsole has been thickened to enhance cushioning. The strength of the hook-and-loop fasteners and the grip of the outsole have also been improved, evolving the design to suit a wide range of activities, from city walking to travel and outdoor adventures.
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Combining Ease of Use with a Distinctive Look2. Clog Sandals
Clog sandals, which cover the toes while leaving the heel open, feature a rounded shape that lends just the right amount of presence to your feet.They can be worn barefoot or with socks, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of seasons. The lineup ranges from lightweight resin models to high-quality options made of suede or leather, and the overall impression varies significantly depending on the material and sole design.
Clog Sandal 1BIRKENSTOCK ‘Boston’
BIRKENSTOCK’s “Boston” is a clog sandal that has long been popular for its rounded shape and minimalist design.Soft suede leather wraps around the foot, and the strap across the instep allows you to adjust the fit. Featuring the brand’s signature footbed made of a natural rubber-cork blend and an EVA outsole, it’s perfect for wearing barefoot or with socks throughout the season.
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Clog Sandal 2BOTTEGA VENETA ‘Clog Mule’”
BOTTEGA VENETA’s “Clog Mule” is a luxurious pair crafted from lambskin using the brand’s signature seamless Intrecciato technique. The brand’s iconic woven pattern accentuates the clog’s rounded silhouette, creating a sense of depth despite the all-black color scheme.Combining an ergonomically designed suede insole with a rubber outsole, these sandals are built for everyday wear.
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Clog Sandal 3PRADA 'Suede Mule'
PRADA’s “Suede Mule” features a clog-style upper crafted from dark brown suede.A buckled strap on the side and a subtly accented enamel metal triangle logo add a refined touch to the design. The combination of a leather lining, a cushioned insole, and a rubber outsole balances a substantial look with everyday comfort.
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Clog Sandal 4The Row ‘Hudson Suede Slide’
The Row’s “Hudson Suede Slide” is a model that highlights the beauty of the materials through its minimalist design.The rounded toe and natural suede with a brushed texture add a touch of understated elegance to the relaxed design. Featuring a footbed that contours to the shape of the foot and a rubber sole, it makes a subtle statement even when peeking out from the hem of wide-leg pants.
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Clog Sandal 5Dries Van Noten ‘Leather Clog’”
Dries Van Noten’s “Leather Clog” is a slip-on style crafted from dark brown calf leather.The topstitching along the upper and the three-dimensional silhouette strike a balance between the rustic charm of work shoes and a fashion-forward presence. With its minimalist design, this is a pair you’ll want to enjoy watching the leather age as you wear it.
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Clog Sandal 6Our Legacy ‘CAMION MULE’
Our Legacy’s “CAMION MULE” is a reinterpretation of the brand’s popular “CAMION” shoe, reimagined as an open-heel mule.It features an upper made of Portuguese leather accented with a brass buckle, paired with a German-made leather midsole and a U.S.-made Vibram outsole. The rugged square toe and sturdy construction lend a sense of heft to the foot that sets it apart from typical clogs.
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Clog Sandal 7Maison Margiela ‘Tabi Slip-On Sandal’”
Maison Margiela’s “Tabi Slip-On Sandal” is a pair that incorporates the brand’s iconic split-toe design into a clog-style sandal.The suede upper features wide straps and a metal buckle, with the brand’s signature white stitching adorning the heel. Equipped with an anatomical footbed and a flat rubber sole, this design makes it easy to incorporate its distinctive style into everyday life.
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Simple Designs for a Light and Airy Look3. Thong Sandals
Thong sandals, with a strap that runs between the big toe and the index toe, are perfect for creating an open, airy look.There’s a wide range of options, from casual rubber models—commonly known as beach sandals—to elegant styles crafted from high-quality leather. Since the impression varies depending on the strap design, sole thickness, and materials, be sure to choose a pair that suits your occasion and fashion style.
Thong Sandals 1JUTTA NEUMANN ‘ALICE’
JUTTA NEUMANN’s “ALICE” is the brand’s signature piece, handcrafted by artisans in a New York workshop.The upper, made from thick Latigo leather molded into a three-dimensional shape, molds to your foot the more you wear it, gaining a deeper luster and richness over time. The substantial construction—featuring a Birken sole—and the rounded toe line give it a distinct presence that clearly sets it apart from typical beach sandals.
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Thong Sandals 2Dries Van Noten ‘Leather Sandals’”
Dries Van Noten’s “Leather Sandals” are flat sandals featuring a calf leather upper held together by slim straps.Contrasting welt stitching accentuates the silhouette and adds a touch of craftsmanship to the minimalist design. The lining and insole are made of lambskin, and the sole—primarily crafted from calf leather—features a rubber outsole, making this a high-quality, authentic design.
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Thong Sandals 3ISLAND SLIPPER ‘202’”
ISLAND SLIPPER’s “202” is the brand’s signature leather thong sandal.The design features a unified black color scheme from the upper to the footbed and sole, with the sheen of the smooth leather adding an elegant accent. The cushioned footbed conforms comfortably to the sole of the foot, creating a well-balanced design that’s easy to wear not only at resorts but also around town.
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Thong Sandals 4BIRKENSTOCK ‘Gizeh’
BIRKENSTOCK’s “Gizeh” is a long-selling model characterized by its T-shaped strap extending from the toe to the instep.The fit can be adjusted with a buckle, and it tends to make your feet look sleeker than typical beach sandals. The upper is made of natural leather with a PU coating, combined with a cork footbed and a lightweight EVA outsole.
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Characterized by a minimalist design and ease of putting on and taking off4. Slide Sandals
Slide sandals are a style where you slip your foot into a strap-like upper that covers the instep. In addition to rubber, designs using leather and suede are also available.Like thong sandals, they have a casual, open feel, but since they lack a toe strap, they’re recommended for those who find the chafing between their toes bothersome when wearing thong sandals.
Slide Sandals 1Brunello Cucinelli “Suede Crossover Slide Sandals””
Brunello Cucinelli’s “Suede Crossover Slide Sandals” feature supple suede straps that cross over the instep. The soft texture of the brushed suede and the subdued color palette add a touch of luxury to this relaxed design.Featuring a suede lining and a para rubber outsole, these sandals are easy to incorporate into any look, from resort wear to urban summer styles.
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Slide Sandal 2BIRKENSTOCK ‘Arizona’
BIRKENSTOCK’s “Arizona” is a two-strap sandal that has been popular across generations and genders since its debut in 1973.Since both straps are individually adjustable, you can customize the fit to your feet. Featuring a timeless design that combines soft suede leather with a cork footbed and an EVA outsole, it pairs easily with bare feet or socks.
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Slide Sandal 3Church’s ‘Ockley’
Church’s “Ockley” is a leather slide featuring two wide straps that cross over the instep.The bleached black calfskin creates a look with depth despite its monochromatic color. The substantial materials and bold crisscross design—hallmarks of this British shoe brand—elevate the slide sandal, which can often look casual, into a statement piece for your feet.
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Slide Sandals 4OOFOS ‘OOmega OOahh Luxe’
OOFOS’s “OOmega OOahh Luxe” is a model that adds a glossy finish to the upper of the “OOmega OOahh” recovery sandal.With its thick sole and soft one-piece construction, it adds a touch of fashion to a functional sandal designed for post-workout wear. It features OOFOS’s proprietary OOfoam and is machine-washable when dirty, making it easy to care for.
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A look that exudes the elegance of leather shoes5. Gurkha Sandals
Gurkha sandals, with multiple leather straps covering the toes and instep, combine the elegance of leather shoes with the airy feel unique to woven uppers.The upper and heel strap that wrap around the foot provide stability, making them easy to incorporate into summer dress styles and smart-casual outfits. The collection centers on models with a refined design, and their appearance varies depending on the width of the straps, the weaving pattern, and the sole specifications.
Gurkha Sandal 1Paraboot ‘PACIFIC’
Paraboot’s “PACIFIC” is a Gurkha sandal beloved as a summer staple of the brand.It features a design where leather straps cover the toe and instep, and a heel with a stiffener provides firm support for the foot. Combined with the SPORT SOLE, which offers excellent cushioning and flexibility, this shoe possesses the elegance of a leather shoe while also prioritizing comfort and ease of walking.
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Gurkha Sandals 2Church's “Fisherman”
Church’s “Fisherman” is a Gurkha sandal that catches the eye with its cage-like upper crafted from high-quality calfskin.With its refined silhouette covering the toes and a buckled strap, it possesses a sophistication reminiscent of dress shoes despite being a sandal. It pairs easily not only with casual outfits like shorts but also with creased pants and summer suits.
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Gurkha Sandal 3PRADA 'Rubber Fisherman Sandal'
PRADA’s “Rubber Fisherman Sandal” is a model that reimagines the traditional fisherman sandal silhouette using EVA material.The entire shoe, from the upper to the lug-tread sole, is finished in black, giving the classic braided design a sporty and modern look. The fit can be adjusted with a buckle, and the leather-covered insole and triangular logo add luxurious accents.
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Gurkha Sandal 4Dior ‘Dior Al Mare Fisherman Sandal’
Dior’s “Dior Al Mare Fisherman Sandal” is a luxurious pair crafted from smooth calfskin.The upper, meticulously hand-woven by artisans, is paired with a palladium-coated CD Icon buckle. Don’t overlook the authentic craftsmanship reminiscent of dress shoes, including the lambskin lining, calfskin insole and outsole, and the Blake construction method.
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A fusion of the stability of sneakers and the lightness of sandals6. Sneaker Sandals
Sneaker sandals feature an upper and sole structure similar to sneakers, combined with open panels, mesh, and braided laces.They cover a larger area of the foot than typical sandals, providing stability while walking. Most models are sporty styles with outdoor roots, and their overall look varies depending on the upper construction and sole thickness.
Sneaker Sandal 1THE NORTH FACE 'Reactive Sneaker'
THE NORTH FACE’s “Reactive Sneaker” is a sneaker-style sandal designed to support walking before and after outdoor activities.The upper and bottom unit are made of EVA material, providing a lightweight and comfortable feel. The sole features a two-layer structure with soft EVA on the foot side and firmer EVA on the ground side to enhance rebound and stability. The semi-rocker design, with a raised toe, supports the push-off motion when walking.The elastic lacing system makes them easy to put on and take off, and allows for an adjustable fit.
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Sneaker Sandals 2Mizuno 'WAVE PROPHECY STRAP'
Mizuno’s “WAVE PROPHECY STRAP” is a striking pair of shoes featuring the brand’s proprietary Wave Prophecy sole.Thanks to a strap structure based on the fitting theory of sprint spikes, the sandal can be adjusted with a single motion to snugly wrap around the entire foot.Highly elastic spandex material is used around the upper, ensuring ease of putting on and taking off. Furthermore, it features a host of details perfect for active summer activities, including highly breathable mesh, a toe guard, and a heel strap designed for outdoor use.
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Sneaker Sandal 3Columbia ‘Slive Revive Sandal’
Columbia’s “Slive Revive Sandal” features a bubble sole derived from trail running technology.The thick, undulating TECHLITE™ PLUSH midsole provides superior cushioning while reducing strain on the feet.The outsole features ADAPT TRAX™, which provides grip on both dry and wet surfaces. The Speed Lace system allows for quick adjustments to the fit, and the stretchy collar gently holds the foot in place. These sneakers are recommended for anyone looking for a versatile pair of sneakers that can be worn for everything from walking around town to camping and music festivals.
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”MERRELL
””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””HYDRO NEXT GEN MOC [1TRL]” is a second-generation model that carries on the DNA of the brand’s iconic water shoe, the “HYDRO MOC.” Its sculptural form, inspired by the movement of water flowing over rocks, lends a unique presence to your feet.The upper utilizes BLOOM™ EVA foam made from algae biomass, combining lightweight construction with water resistance. Furthermore, the FLOATMAX™ Foam midsole provides soft cushioning, while the Merrell Sticky Rubber outsole enhances stability on wet surfaces.
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Sneaker Sandals 5New Balance 'DynaSoft UA710 v1'
New Balance’s “DynaSoft UA710 v1” is a walking shoe that incorporates outdoor-inspired details into everyday wear.Featuring a highly breathable synthetic and mesh upper, they are designed to easily dissipate the heat that tends to build up around your feet in the summer. The lace-free construction makes them exceptionally easy to put on and take off. The midsole incorporates DynaSoft technology, delivering both a lightweight feel and excellent cushioning.
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