10 Fisherman Sandals You Need This Summer

My criteria for the perfect pair of fisherman sandals was exacting: I wanted the classic black, strappy look but in a material that wasn’t too precious. This REEF style exceeds my wishlist with a super lightweight, water-resistant TPU (plastic) material that looks every bit like a high-end leather pair. Velcro takes the place of a buckle and the detailed design on the straps simulates leather convincingly. I don’t suffer from the inevitable chafing of leather against sweaty feet and I can wear these into the ocean as the chicest pair of water shoes.

These basket-y woven sandals present the Platonic ideal of fisherman sandals (in my imagination at least). The golden buckle against the chocolate-colored leather feels so wholesome and ready-to-shop-the-local-farmer’s-market. You’ll have serious coverage in these (and minimize weird tan lines) with perfectly proportioned straps. Choose from seven colors including a floral print, gold, and metallic pink.

The chunkier the better when it comes to fisherman sandals. This pair accomplishes in two straps what it takes most shoes four straps to: covering the entire top of your foot. The super-stylized look is a great option if you’re about to wear out a more classic-looking pair.

All styles are open to interpretation and this cork + clear strap experiment is a delightful departure from the norm. The synthetic straps provide a jelly sandal vibe while the cork platform evokes a throwback Candie’s aesthetic.  

For a fisherman-inspired look with some height, try these 3.5-inch wedges that bring jute texture to the iconic look. The style is comfortable whether you’re dockside or heading out to an al fresco dinner.

If the tightly woven style isn’t for you, this option from Oliver Bonas offers an open and airy weave. With a moderate platform and smooth leather finish, these will become your everyday shoes in no time.

If you’ve complained that a chunky sole adds unnecessary weight, consider this elegant Madewell pair that has a dressier vibe thanks to a sleek, low heel. Even with the thinner sole, the MWL Cloudlift Lite padding ensures you won’t sacrifice comfort.

These calfskin sandals are crying out to be worn with socks for the ultimate dad-core outfit. The non-traditional design offers something special in a sea of homogenous fisherman sandals.

With a pyramid-style heel and a contrasting silver buckle, this style channels a pilgrim x fisherman collaboration of the highest order. You get full coverage of your heel, which is great if you live in a city and often end up with blackened feet after a sandal day.

A fashion take on the style brings us these shiny, poppy beauties that use a lug sole to great effect. No one will miss the traffic light red hue that pairs well with a seaside lobster bake.