Adidas Men's Adilette Slide Sandal
Crocs Men's Classic Slide Sandal
NIKE Men's Solarsoft Comfort Slide Sandal
When the temperature rises, one of the summer’s simple pleasures is to kick off your sneakers and let your toes go free. And, with our guide to some of the best slides for men out there, you can go (almost) foot naked in uber cool style.
Flip-flops are so yesterday – the poolside or sports slide is the new minimal footwear kid on the block. From humble beginnings as simple but practical footwear for the gym or by the pool, the slide has suddenly gone fashion serious and we like its new-found confidence.
Lightweight and slip-on simple, the slide has come in from the pool and is now the way to turn down the heat in the gym, on the street or out and about in town. You can even wear them with smart casual trousers or suit, and most people won’t even bat an eye.
So, step up and reveal your feet in style, with our lowdown on the 12 best slides you’d be more than happy to be seen out and about in.
The Best Slide For Men
1Adidas Men’s Adilette Slide Sandal
We start with our Best Choice and a true sports slide classic, the Adilette from Adidas that’s been keeping feet cool since 1972 and shows no signs of slowing down when it comes to its popularity.
With the iconic Adidas stripes, the design of these slip-on sandals is timeless and adds a touch of throwback beach style; these are the original slider trendsetters after all. We really like the simplicity of the Adilette, no fastenings or buckles, just a one piece over-foot strap to keep your feet snug and happy. Plus, the outsole is a nice deep size, with lots of absorption in its dense poly-plastic. Dress the Adilette down with your borders or go evening casual with jeans – you will happily spend a summer rocking these go-to classic sliders, and smile while you do because they are also a great price. Make sure you also check our guide to the best golf shoes for more great footwear.
Quick-to-don slip-on style
Synthetic upper with Adidas stripes
Fast-dry synthetic lining to help prevent rubbing
Contoured foot bed for extra comfort
Good choice of classic Adidas colorways
- Brandadidas
- Model280647
- Weight12 ounces
2NIKE Men’s Solarsoft Comfort Slide Sandal
If you like the thought of spending the whole summer wearing the sandal equivalent of a duvet on your feet, then you are going to love Nike’s Solarsoft Comfort slide. Made from memory foam, they offer superior comfort for a slip-on slider, molding to your foot for a totally personalized comfort ride. Add with an adjustable over-foot strap, breathable mesh detail and a density foam plus a super flexible outsole to take on all those roads and beach bumps and you are onto the best men’s slides winner.
OK, the vibe of this slide sandal is more mean and moody rather than beach breezy but we think that’s also part of their appeal. They won’t clash with your beach or sportswear and could even add a touch of understated sports lux to your evening threads. The Solarsoft Comfort Slide is at the top end of our review budget but as you won’t want to take these slid beauties off all summer, based on dime per wear, you’ll get good value for money.
Slip-on design with adjustable over strap
Solarsoft memory foam mid-sole for serious comfort
Mesh details for breathability
Ultra-flexible outsole for motion support
Hexagonal traction pattern for grip
- BrandNIKE
- Model705513
- Weight2 pounds
3Champion Men’s IPO Slides
Padded upper, contoured footbed, lightweight, nicely shock-absorbent rubber sole – well, that’s the IPO slip-on sandal from Champion ticking our essential slide checklist.
If you like your sports look and a large logo to match, then these good-priced men’s slides from athleisure stalwarts, Champion will be the cool sports slide style to go for. They give you all the important basics to an effective sports slide, comfort, fit, support and cushioning and a nice wide over-strap to keep your feet reassuringly snug. These men’s summer sandals do run on the small size, so it may be worth going up a half size or so. Also, make sure you try them on first to get the right fit as the over-strap is not adjustable. Our handy guide to the best CrossFit shoes features more great products like this.
Man-made upper with embossed logo
Contoured footbed for a nice snug fit
Over foot strap padded for comfort
Shock absorbent rubber outsole
Available in a good range of colorways
- BrandChampion
- ModelIPO-M-ABF
- Weight14.4 ounces
4Crocs Men’s Classic Slide Sandal
Love them or not, Crocs know how to make super comfortable footwear and these chunky slides certainly don’t disappoint. Even though they are a rubber slide, there is no mistaking the ‘Croc-look’ – curved outsole and a substantial upper, making these straightforward slide sandals perfect for the beach or pool. In an urban setting they could look a little dad-like but hey, don’t listen to us, that just may be your fashion thing.
So, how do they actually perform? You can’t fault the comfort level of these pool slides, as they use Croc’s effective Croslite foam cushion that features across their whole footwear range, so that’s super-comfy in our book. The outsole is nice and deep, with a form fit curve to the inner, so that the slide cradles your feet while absorbing the lumps and bumps of the ground. The over strap is wide and deep but again has a natural curve so it won’t dig into the top of your foot. For a relaxed day out and about in the summer heat, the Crocs slide sandal will really step up, just don’t expect to be branded a total fashionista. If you like the outdoors, check out our guide to the best hiking shoes.
Unmistakable Croc styling and comfort
Croslite foam sole cradles the foot
Lightweight – the perfect slide for beach or pool
Comes in a good range of colors
Order half size down for the best fit
- BrandCrocs
- Weight12 ounces
5Adidas Men’s Adissage Sandal
Combine sports style street cred, a foot-massage (yes, really) comfy ride and a less than $25, and you’re onto a winner with the Adissage from Adidas. Aptly named, these are popular sports slides and it is easy to see why. First up the classic Addidas styling, with logo standing out loud and proud for those who like their upfront branding. Then there is the adjustable over strap that hugs the foot without putting it in a stranglehold, so your feet can breathe in the heat. The nicely wide outsole is made from flexible injected EVA for a lightweight but secure step. Add to this, the tiny massage nubs ergonomically placed on the foot-bed and you have a slide that cares about your feet.
Perfect for those post workouts, or long days hanging out by the pool and your tired feet need a little pickup. The Adissage does take a wear or two to break in but get past the first few days of uncertainty and you are rewarded with what we think is one of the best men’s slides you can buy. And a foot massage to boot.
Attractive Adidas styling
Adjustable synthetic bandage upper
Ergonomically placed massage nubs on footbed
Injected eva outsole for lightweight comfort
Comes in a range of Adidas white striped colorways
- Brandadidas
- ModelADISSAGE-M
- Weight1.15 pounds
6UGG Men’s Xavier Hyperweave Slide Sandal
With their pedigree of creating toasty warm boots, Ugg are not instantly associated with pool slides but with the Xavier Hyperweave, they have managed to create a smart-looking slip on sandal that can really help to turn that feet heat down.
A lovely curved outsole with a wide, soft but non-adjustable over strap, the Xavier Hyperweave maxs out on Ugg’s fabric technology for a slide that comforts as it keeps you cool. The strap is made from a Hyperweave knit, which combines soft cotton with flexible and durable nylon that lets your feet breathe. As a seamless, single layered strap it moves with your foot, giving a barely there feeling. The comfort level of these designer slides for men good too, with Ugg’s comfort system combining soft foam with polyurethane pods for an air-like walk. All this and they look really good too. There’s a casual sophistication about these slides that not all slip-on sandals have. The knitted fabric gives them a quality that takes them beyond a simple sports slide and to the edge of urban fashion territory. Wear them on the beach or in the bar this summer and you won’t look out of place. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best white sneakers for men.
Textile and man-made sole
Anatomically contoured EVA insole
Tread Lite outsole for maximum comfort
Hyper Weave straps lined with air mesh for added comfort
Come in three natural colors
- BrandUGG
- Model1092299
- Weight12.8 ounces
7Under Armour Men’s Ignite V Slide
The Under Armour quality is obvious in the Ignite V, with a high performing men’s slide that is as comfortable in the gym or on the sports field as it is in the bar at the end of a long, hot day. Design-wise, they are quite a low key, with three nicely muted colorways that won’t take over your style but would still blend in with whatever you wear. And, the heel height is good and low, without losing any foot support or cushioning.
Under Armour have certainly put comfort at the top of the Ignite design list, giving you a sports slide you can happily wear all day long. An adjustable foot strap made from HeatGear lining to let your feet breathe when the temperature rises is a nice touch, as is the 4D double-layered foam footbed. Add in an EVA outsole with traction pods and with Ignite V you get a super comfortable, day-long slide ride.
Adjustable strap features HeatGear lining
Footbed built with two layers of 4D Foam
Anatomical contours provide additional cushioning
Re-engineered EVA outsole with durable traction pods
Available in three complementary colorways
- BrandUnder Armour
- Model3020158
- Weight6.1 ounces
8Lacoste Men’s Fraisier Slides
For those moments when you really want to make a slide fashion statement, then Lacoste’s Fraisier could well be your slip-on sandal man. With the look and comfort feel of a pair of slippers you’d wear at the spa, these are the lounge lizards of our best men’s slides top 12 lists, with a laid back style and bold Lacoste branding that will easily take you from poolside to the rooftop bar.
White is perhaps not the most practical color for a sports slider but that doesn’t really matter, the Fraisier is more about the vibe than actually taking part. The non-adjustable over foot strap is nice and thick, without restricting your feet or digging in, and the EVA outsole is a joy to walk the distance from the pool lounger to the outdoor cocktail bar. Just one word to the wise, they do run small in size and, as they can’t be adjusted, try on one size up to be sure of that comfort spa slipper fit. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best white sneakers for men.
White slide with distinct Lacoste branding
Non-adjustable rubber strap
Crocodile skin effect on the footbed
EVA outsole for comfort
Style is on the narrow side
- BrandLacoste
- Model1246178
- Weight15 ounces
9New Balance Men’s Cush+ Slide Sandal
For a total no-nonsense, quality sports slide that knows its job and has no need to show off, then we would put the Cush+ from New Balance right ahead of the queue.
This sports slide does exactly what it says on the tin – lightweight, it fits well and offers a lovely, comfortable ride thanks to its Cush+ footbed. The synthetic PU strap is adjustable and mesh-lined to keep your feet nice and cool and the deep heel cup and full arch support shape of the inner let your feet settle in a natural, supported position. The Cush+ sports slide is also robust and so ideal for the sports ground, beach or gym. It can then step it up with jeans or casual shorts to bring an authentic sports vibe to your summer day wear. All this at a good price and there’s nothing more to say other than New Balance Cush+ slide works for us.
3D print graphic detail
Adjustable upper with hook & loop closure
Cush+ footbed with full arch support
Deep heel cup and lightweight EVA outsole
Synthetic PU upper with mesh lining
- BrandNew Balance
- ModelMen’s Cush+ Slide-M
- Weight3 pounds
10Kappa Men’s Gigi Slides
Built for the beach but good enough for everyday use, you can make a cool style statement with the Gigi slides from Kappa. Uncomplicated, there’s everything you need in a basic pool or sports slide – an easy but snug fit, cushioned footbed and a nicely molded inner, all topped off with the distinct Kappa logo. The Gigi is perfect for hanging around the beach with your buds, catching the rays and some surf, before topping off a hot summer day at the beach bar or barbecue.
The outsole is made from a soft rubber which, while giving you a comfort fit all day, can pick up grit over time so perhaps not so long lasting for repeated urban use. But for it’s less than $16 price tag, there’s a good summer of slide wearing ahead. If you like taking long walks, check out our guide to the best walking shoes.
Synthetic upper and rubber outsole
Cushioned footbed for comfort
Molded inner to support your foot
Non-adjustable foot over strap
Kappa logo on tongue
- BrandKappa
11Fila Men’s Drifter Sport Sandal
We finish on another classic pair of slides, this time from Italian sports brand Fila which brings some Mediterranean fashion styling to a slip-on sandal that can take you from the water to marina bars with ease.
The over strap is not adjustable, but the overall fit makes the Drifter a lovely, comfortable slide that wraps your feet without overdoing it. They do have a high, almost wedge look to the outsole and heel, but this just adds to the floating on air feel. The sole is curved slightly to gently rock and move as you walk, helping to keep the slide securely in place. And we like the contoured shape on the inner sole, which naturally absorbs the shape of your foot. This is a robust, substantial sports slide that takes to shallow water like a duck, protecting your feet against shingle and rocks, but also keeps your feet secure when on dry land. Top it all off with the loud and proud Fila logo on the foot strap and you have a pair of casual, cool men’s designer slides that wouldn’t look out of place with jeans or shorts on the quayside.
Upper – Comfortable bandage for support and comfort
Midsole – EVA for cushioning
The footbed is contoured and forms to the foot
Outsole – perfect for all surfaces
Ideal for water sports and the beach
- BrandFila
- Model1VS10000
- Weight14.1 ounces
Slides For Men Buying Guide & FAQ
How We Choose Our Selection Of Slides
We want you to buy slides that look the part while keeping you comfortable and cool. To whittle our list down to the final 12 best slides for men, we checked them all against the following criteria:
Brand – we’ve looked at the brands where we know you will have quality and would be happy to wear their logo on your feet
Reviews – slide sandal wearers are quick to judge if they don’t come up to expectations, so we’ve taken first-hand feedback on board, so you know our final 12 are totally up to scratch.
Design – we’ve balanced comfort and practicality with the overall look and quality in the design; ok, they’re pool slides but you want to have some cool summer style
Price – slides don’t have to be expensive and when it comes to price, we’ve looked at getting the best style, durability, and quality for your money.
Features To Look For In Slides For Men
When dipping your toe into buying a new pair of sport or pool slides, make sure you look out for the following:
Design – the beauty of slide sandals is their simplicity, you should just be able to slip ‘em on and go. This means the design should not be over-complicated, a well-made outer for cushioning and support and an easy to fit over strap to keep your foot in place. The outer can be adjustable, and a nice wide over-foot strap gives you a sense of security in its fit, but that’s it. Something so simple can be designed really well and the overall look is personal – from sleek and minimalist to a fashion statement that’s branded to the hilt. The choice is yours.
Fit - with very little, other than an over-foot strap to keep your slides from, well, sliding off your feet, the fit of your new slip on sandal is all important when it comes to keeping them in place. Features such as molded insoles and adjustable top straps will help to keep your feet secure as will the slide size. Make sure you get a true fit for your feet, too large and your feet will slide inside the sandal and leave too much spare slide at the front that can catch as you walk.
Comfort – while it may take a few wears to get accustomed to walking in your new pool or sports slides, they should be comfortable on your feet and not rub or drag. Look out for features that promise to nurture your feet like a baby, such as insoles with arch support, comfort-fit, breathable straps, shocking-absorbing outsoles, and hidden seams and you should feel like you are walking on air.
Material – you need a slider that is light on your feet but durable enough to cope with a mix of terrains, from sand to concrete as well as heat. Look for uppers made from soft leather, breathable mesh, flexible synthetics or soft fabrics. When it comes to the outsole, rubber or a durable synthetic will offer the robustness, flexibility and shock-absorbing qualities you need to keep your feet protected and comfortable, even if you are on the move all day.
Tips On Managing Slide Discomfort
Any type of barefoot sliders or slip on sandals bring the potential risk of rubbing, particularly when they are new and you are breaking them in. But other than plaster and a quick spray from a can of ‘Man Up’, is there anything you can do you manage or even prevent slide discomfort? Good news, there is, and to help here’s our quick guide to stress-free slides:
- Make sure there’s about a quarter inch of slide behind your heel, this way when you put your foot down as you walk, you avoid striking the back edge of the slide which can rub an irritate over time.
- Check that the upper has some stretch and if possible, is breathable. This can prevent rubbing and swelling of your upper foot – not a good look.
- Wipe the insole of your pool slide before you put them on, so you make sure it is grit free and dry. For extra ‘sticking power’, spray a thin layer of hairspray on the inner to create a little bit more traction between the slider and your foot.
- Let your toes be free! Make sure there is a little room within the slide on sandal so you have some movement in your foot and toes as you walk. Yes, they need to be snug enough not to fall off but too snug and you’re only going to cause friction and irritation.
- If your feet ache after a while in your slides, then your arches may need additional support. Slides with shaped insoles to support the delicate arch in your foot can make a real difference in your comfort levels as you walk.
Slides For Men FAQ
Q: What are Slides?
A: Slides are a form of open-toe footwear, in the same vein as sandals and flip-flops and are for wearing by the pool, sports trackside or out and about in the summer when you want your feet to be free and cool. Simply described, they are backless and open-toed with an over-foot strap to keep everything together. They are great for airing the feet and were originally designed for the poolside, to keep feet clean and slip free. They are also now used in the gym and for cooling down the feet after training. Increasingly, they are also seen as a fashion item, with some cool-dudes even wearing them with socks. It’s a personal choice and one we promise we won’t hold against you.
Q: Can I wear Slides in the city?
A: Hey dude, you can wear whatever you want if it floats your boat! To be honest the jury is out on this one but that doesn’t mean they can’t look city-slicker cool if you have the confidence to style it out. For the city heat, slides are actually more urban practical than flip-flops as they are more substantial, cover more of your feet and are less of a sidewalk trip risk. Wear them as the slide gods intended them, sport casual or bring some poolside wishful thinking to your suit or long pants. The fashionistas wear them with socks which is ok with us. One word of advice if you are going barefoot in your slides around the city this summer, check out your feet to see if a quick pedicure may be in order. You don’t want to offend anyone on the morning commute.
Q: Is it bad to wear flat shoes?
A: While your new sports slides are not necessarily going to keep you totally comfortable on a long hike or if you are on your feet all day, they are a breath of fresh air for your toes. That said, without good arch support, flat shoes are going to eventually cause some level of foot ache and can potentially cause back pains too. A thin outsole can also bring trouble if it is not providing the right amount of foot support or shock absorption.
But before you toss your new pool slides to the back of the cupboard and reach for that pair of Cuban heels or cowboy boots you have stashed away, there’s no need to stop wearing your open and flat sandals. Simply make sure they have the right support for the foot and are robust enough to keep you protected for the rough and the tough you’ll get when walking around. Then embrace the foot free feeling and enjoy.