Best Men’s Sport Sandal Reviews 2018

Men’s sports sandals are sold for anywhere in the range of $15 - $220. A number of things account for the price difference, but the major ones would be the type of materials used and the quality of the construction. If you had a sports sandal with an upper material made of silicone-treated leather on one hand, and another with a synthetic upper material, it would be safe to say that, while both sandals have been designed to do the same thing, which is to keep your feet dry and comfortable, one would cost more because of the materials involved. There is a lot of technicality to the construction of this outdoor footwear, so settling for cheap men’s sports sandals might put your feet in harm’s way, literally.

So, how does one end up with the best men’s sport sandals? Well, knowing what to look for in such a sandal is a good place to start, and we’ve listed some of the features you should look out for:

• Type
• Upper Material
• Sole
• Color(s)
• Size

When you know the activities you intend to use your sports sandals for, it becomes easier to decide which type to choose. They’re basically two types, based on the design of the sandals’ toe area – we have the open-toe and closed-toe sports sandals. If you’re looking for comfortable footwear for short-distance walks or hikes on smooth terrain and something that can blend in with other snazzy-looking footwear at a causal event, we’d suggest you find yourself a pair of open-toe sports sandals. They are comfortable and do not have as much material as their closed-toe counterparts, which makes them lighter as well. However, with these, your toes will be exposed and your feet might not get enough protection, especially against rocks, sticks and other pointy stuff that just appears out of nowhere.

So, for the man looking for something to wear to walk (or run) around town or hike on flat terrain, you can’t go wrong with some open-toes. Now, for them closed-toes, these are built with their sole materials extending over the toes. They are sturdier, somewhat heavier, and thicker than the open-toes and are great for rocky terrain and land where those unexpected, toe-thirsty, pointy things jut out here and there. They offer more protection for your feet, as they cover more than the open-toe sport sandals.

The upper material of any pair of sports sandals has to be two things. The first is breathable and the second is comfortable. We can add a third thing – aesthetically pleasing; after all, a man has to look good. The upper material of sports sandals can be made of either leather or synthetic material. Synthetic materials are better suited for wet climes or conditions, as they are usually moisture resistant and quick drying; they won’t cause your feet to chafe when damp. Synthetic blends are also great at wicking internal moisture away from your feet. When your feet sweat, the synthetic material usually draws the moisture out to the external environment and into the atmosphere, keeping your feet dry.

Examples of synthetic materials include polyurethane, polyester, neoprene, etc. Sports sandals featuring a leather upper material are great for dry weather, and not so much for wet. This is because leather is a natural fabric that deteriorates with repeated exposure to water; what’s more, it takes a longer time to dry. If you’re thinking of sandals with leather upper material, we suggest you look for one that has been treated to be waterproof. Treatments like silicone treatment and Microban not only reduce moisture absorption, but stop bacterial growth as well. It’s important to note that you’ll find lots of sports sandals with a combination of fabrics; just note which material is the highest percentage and apply this information.

The soles on these bad boys are built to be tough, resilient and flexible. They are lightweight and suitable for running, hikes, walks and light work, but they’re not built with enough rigidity for mountain walks or serious climbs. Let’s talk a bit about comfort and fit. Sports sandals may not offer the strength or the support that sports shoes give, as they’re in a class of their own. They usually feature contoured foot beds that’ll hold your foot in the proper position and provide your feet with a comfortable non-slip surface to sit on. Midsoles are essential for shock and impact absorption; they also provide lateral stability. Ensure that the foot bed is cushioned or padded with EVA material or Vibram for great cushioning effect.

You should also ensure that you get the right size for your feet, as the benefits of these shoes, and indeed any shoe, are best enjoyed when you’re wearing them in your own size. Don’t go expecting that if you tighten or loosen the straps enough, they’ll be just fine; the straps and closures aren’t designed to function as the only support for your feet – they’re part of a support system that includes the sole, foot bed etc.

One more thing; we aren’t going to leave the frills out. Depending on your taste, you can choose from a variety of color options available. From the staple blacks and browns to bolder patterns and colors, you’re sure to find yourself a pair (or some pairs) that represents your style.