This Summer, Invest In…Sandals

With the first official day of summer fast approaching, it’s about time to make sure you’ve cleared out your collection of hard-bottoms for some warm-weather footwear. And this go-round, we’ve got a proposition: it’s time to cop a pair of sandals. And we’re not talking dusty old flip flops, but rather a new-wave sandal—the kind of pair with the same cool factor as a pair of hyped-up sneakers. Sandals for men have always gotten a bad rap, but with a new focus on men’s footwear, brands and designers have upped their game, which means that dudes finally rock the open-toed footwear without shame. Thanks to iconic labels like Prada as well as more under-the-radar brands like Suicoke, there’s never been a better time to drop some cash on some breezy, summertime kicks. Earlier this year, the Louis Vuitton Honolulu sandal emerged as be the go-to travel shoe of everyone from Lil Uzi Vert to John Mayer to Travis Scott—also known as menswear’s new class of champs. Tyler, the Creator can’t seem to get enough of rocking the sandal look either. So let these well-dressed dudes be an example: sandals are just as worthy of an investment as sneakers. Your trusty Adidas or Nike slides might have been good enough for college, and they’ll still do you a solid at the gym, but nowadays you’re going to want something a little more sophisticated. You know how a crisp pair of Common Projects can make a casual outfit feel more stylish than an old pair of white sneakers? Upgrading your sandals has the same effect: a little low-key, but totally worthwhile. Read more at GQ.