Flip flops might be the most utilitarian piece of footwear on the market—not ideal for hiking or extreme labor, but if you’re heading to the beach, grabbing some groceries at the supermarket, taking your pup for a walk, or just hanging out in your backyard for the day—they’ll come in handy. They’re quick to put on, keep your feet from touching hot sand or grungy shared shower floors, and they look good when you pair them with jeans and a simple tee or short sleeve shirt unbuttoned.
A quality pair of men’s flip flops will also do a better job than your old run-of-the-mill rubber ones at preventing your feet from getting hot, wet, and smelly—not to mention they’ll help prevent fungal infections like toenail fungus or athlete’s foot. To find the best flip flops for men, we turned to our favorite brands and tested their performance in terms of comfort, durability, support, value, and style.
For a flip-flop that will stand up to the elements (and the occasional splashy swim), consider a pair of Reef Men’s Fanning Flip Flops, which are named after an Aussie surf legend and embody the country’s laid-back beach culture. They feature a teak-tough construction and an outsole that doubles as a bottle opener, perfect for kicking back with a beer at the beach bar or a bonfire on the sand.
Other waterproof flip flops we love include OluKai’s Ohana Koa style, which offers a foam-padded footbed and subtle topstitching for comfort; Zori’s high arch support preserves your foot’s structure while keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable, while the brand’s thong sandals provide a barefoot alternative to the more casual and sporty styles of Adidas, who make their own line that’s durable and features a foam-padded sole, does a great job absorbing impact, and is stylish to boot.
If you’re not the kind of guy who spends all summer lying around, we’d recommend a pair of Nike’s comfortable, sporty flip-flops that feature a soft, stretchy fit and a foam-padded footbed for cushioning. The shoe’s iconic swoosh is also embroidered on the straps for a classic aesthetic, while its waterproof technology keeps your feet toasty and dry all summer long.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more high-fashion, look no further than designer Rick Owens’ Ruhlmann Granola flip-flops. Their thick ribbed top and distinct sculpted footbed give these flip flops a distinctive aesthetic that’s equal parts edgy and luxury. Pair them with some skinny jeans and a light grey or neutral-colored tee to create a sophisticated look that’s perfect for the beach or a night out on the town. We’d also recommend a pair of the brand’s classic flip-flops in a vibrant hue to complement your tropical getaway wardrobe.