Once the preserve of Romans, eccentric uncles and Mediterranean clergyman, the fisherman sandal is now enjoying a quiet style renaissance. It’s popping up at fashion weeks, being featured in lookbooks for big taste-making brands, and being worn by men who, until very recently, insisted they “don’t really do sandals.” Why? Because it’s breathable, practical, and – unexpectedly – chic. The ideal summer shoe for men who hate summer shoes. A leather sandal, yes, but one with class, dignity, and purpose.
What are fisherman s`andals?
In short, they’re a sandal with a proper work ethic. Traditionally worn by Mediterranean fishermen who needed ventilation and toe protection, they feature woven leather uppers, closed toes, and a buckle fastening. They cover just enough to be respectable and reveal just enough to let your feet breathe. Which makes them ideal summer footwear for the city – or anywhere that’s hot for that matter.
Why are they trending now?
Because we’ve collectively had enough of flimsy footwear. The fisherman sandal looks like it’s been built to do something – even if all it ends up doing is going for a spritz. It’s functional, quietly unusual, and fits nicely into that current menswear sweet spot between nostalgia, minimalism and elegance. It’s also surprisingly adaptable. You can wear it with wide-leg linen trousers, cotton shorts, or even lightweight tailoring. And crucially, it offers the perfect compromise for men who still associate flip-flops with communal showers.
The best brands making fisherman sandals right now
Kleman
French workwear, but make it handsome. Kleman’s fisherman sandals are functional and unfussy – leather uppers, chunky soles, and a utilitarian edge that pairs well with wide trousers and a slightly too-short camp-collar shirt. Built in France, and built to last.
Velasca
Handmade in Italy with a Milanese sense of order, Velasca’s sandals lean towards elegance. The leather’s soft, the straps are refined, and the finish is somewhere between Riviera nonchalance and North Italian rigour. Ideal if you like your leather sandals with a side of sprezzatura.
Grenson
You know Grenson – classic English shoemaking, well-mannered silhouettes, and Goodyear welts you can see from orbit. Their fisherman sandal keeps that heritage feel but adds summer ease. A smart choice for anyone still in mourning for their winter brogues.
Paraboot
The cult French shoemaker known for chunky soles and impeccable build quality. Paraboot’s take on the fisherman sandal is robust, slightly technical, and made for men who secretly wish everything came with Norwegian stitching.
John Lobb
Quiet luxury with a capital L. John Lobb’s version is as elegant as you’d expect – hand-crafted, minimalist, and so beautifully made you’ll want to keep them in the box. But don’t. They’re meant to be worn, preferably with a linen shirt and a tan.
Next up: The best leather sandals for men in 2025.
