Written by Cassell Ferere in partnership with Kulture Hub

Sandals and slides have been at a tug-of-war over our leisure and lax footwear real estate in our closets. Slides are the indoor cousin of sandals and offer the most comfort while at home - which, nowadays, we mostly are. But proper sandals, with its dad-style reputation, are not considered by a majority of men. 

Those who are comfortable with their style might find sandals a bit of an understatement, if not just not a youthful look - adding socks may help in finding the irony in looking like someone’s dad.

Sandals, like slides, have a place, and it’s no longer found on the paths of hiking trails around the world. It’s right on the streets of our cities and towns and getting dripped out by savvy dressers.

The feel of an open toe shoe is liberating. Sandals are just as comfortable as slides, but the difference here is that sandals are socially presentable in most cases. Meaning you won't look like you gave up on life.

Slides don’t have a hefty shelf life as if you tend to wear a pair more and more, the slipper starts to deteriorate and lean in an unattractive way. No one is reselling used slides and if they are - and if you’re buying - I feel bad for you and your sense of civility.

The sandal is a shoe to be considered in theory and function; breathable, yet durable. Most shoes will save you on a rainy day. Sandals will not do anything for you when it rains.

Slides tend to be made with versatility and therefore carry characteristics that make them water friendly. Sandals are more of the go-to on days you can't quite settle on a look - like when I wear my Birkenstocks. Sandals could be a sophisticated advancement of your fashion aesthetic and create a mature look overall.

Here are a few sandal selections out there that you can get some inspiration from and see if it can complement your drip. Sneakerheads are warned.

Rick Owen x Birkenstock

Rick Owens has had a sick collaboration run with Birkenstock that takes the familiar bohemian silhouette and adds that Rick-Goth to them with plush cow fur and leather material.

Prada Buckle Strappy Sandals

A traditional look from Prada made from leather with sturdy soles.

Burberry Black Webb Sandals

These Burberry sandals are made from buffed calfskin and silver-tone hardware.

Dr. Martens Black Gerald Sandals

Doc takes a utilitarian approach and provides a boot-height sandal.

Suicoke MOTO-Mab Lined Sandals

Suede would feel nice on your feet and the shearling-lined straps and molded rubber footbed add extra comfort and style.

Valentino Garavani ‘VLTN’ Slides (Sandals)

A slip-on sandal may just be the right medium for those who don’t care to buckle their shoes.

Bottega Veneta Logo Sandals

Made from a wool canvas, the buffed canvas slip-on sandal has adjustable straps with press-release fastenings for that just-right fit.

Gucci Rubber Bucket Strap Sandal

This sandal may be the ‘dad’-sandal of the group but that Gucci gold glow shines bright.

Dior CD1 Sandal

Perhaps the coolest sandal on the list. The neoprene upper and chunky rubber running-shoe sole is inspired by fashion and function. This sandal runner is a homage to the artist, Daniel Arsham who has worked with the Dior brand recently.

Visvim Christo Shaman-Folk Fringed Suede Sandal

The ‘Christo” sandal is a staple of visvim and one of their best-selling sandal style. The ‘Shaman-Folk’ is re-imagined by designer Mr. Hiroki with fringe and tassels for the suede finish.

Givenchy 4G Jaw Sandals

The jacquard logo pattern is bold on this sandal and the sole is just as pumped up. Givenchy has made this sandal in the kiddy-style we grew on with Velcro straps to fasten the sandal to your feet.

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