If you’re seeking shoes that have a rich history dating back centuries, then you came to the right place. There’s no better time than right before spring to start looking for the best men’s espadrilles. With origins from the Pyrenees region between France and Spain, they were first worn by peasants and soldiers because of their affordability and durability.
These days, espadrilles have gone far and beyond their humble beginnings, ultimately growing into a staple across countless footwear silhouettes. They’re known for their casual look and breathable feel, making them perfect for warm weather and leisurely activities, be it shoreside weddings or trips to the park. They slip on easily and are oh-so comfortable. Modern examples are often constructed of premium materials like suede, leather, and even recycled fabrics, assuring they can suit different style sensibilities.
Overall, my curated list of the best men’s espadrilles pays homage to this rich history while also highlighting contemporary designs that blend tradition with modern aesthetics. From classic canvas options to more luxurious leather variations, each pair embodies the timeless charm and versatility of espadrilles.
Key Takeaways
Finding the best men’s espadrilles shoes is far from a cakewalk (no pun intended). Luckily, I’ve scoured the internet high and low to do the work for you. For starters, you want to think about the shoe’s weight, what they’re made of, how they fit, and, in line with the latter, if they have features that can personalize the fit. To put things simply, you find yourselves in the market for the most dependable pair of sandals that you can wear all day and anywhere – that’s what espadrilles truly are nowadays. Moreover, our best overall choice is Todd Snyder’s Suede Espadrilles, which checks all the boxes in my book. They’re constructed from supple Italian hairy suede and leather, so you know they’re going to last and look great every step of the way. That being said, it’s hard to go wrong with a pair of TOMS. They’re what comes to mind when I think “espadrilles” for a reason.
Why it’s great: Like most items from Todd Snyder, this pair of espadrilles is high-quality without breaking the bank, although it’s still a bit pricier than most options you’ll find here. With its luxe combination of leather and Italian hairy suede, they serve as a more stylish, undeniably comfortable option for casual outings.
Who is this for: Dudes who love keeping things plain and a little old-fashioned but still prefer a step above the Banana Republics and J. Crews of the world — in other words, the typical Todd Snyder customer. Regardless, the best men’s espadrilles cater to those who appreciate premium materials and craftsmanship.
Flaws but not deal breakers: Aside from the higher price, there’s nothing to complain about, as the overall quality justifies the investment.
Material: Leather and Italian hairy suede | Sizes: 7-13 | Colors: Black, Brown, Beige | Care: Wipe clean
Why it’s great: Inspired by what Aurélien describes as the “Riviera lifestyle of the 1950s,” these smooth Suede Seaside Loafers sure look and fit the part and even sit on a set of trusty jute soles for extra durability.
Who is this for: The Seaside Loafer is made for people who don’t want to pay for a high-fashion pair like JW Anderson’s but still want to find the smooth, calfskin upper at an approachable price (just under $233, for reference).
Flaws but not deal breakers: Sizing is limited, as they range from 7-12 based on US standards. However, the brand does advise going down one full size.
Material: Suede | Sizes: 40-46 IT | Colors: Beige, Navy | Care: spot clean
Why it’s great: This pair from Stacy Adams is truly made to last thanks to their sturdy hybrid construction, as reviews suggest that they can be worn for months on end. However, there’s a caveat to that, which we’ll touch on later.
Who is this for: These are ideal for fans of Amazon’s try before you campaign who just so happen to have large feet, as sizes are available in as high as 16!
Flaws but not deal breakers: Remember where I mentioned there was a caveat that comes with wearing them constantly? Well, the one flaw (for some, anyway) is that the shoes can grow uncomfortable for long periods of wear.
Material: Suede and memory foam | Sizes: 7-16 | Colors: Chalk, Dark Blue, Black | Care: Spot clean
Why it’s great: Loewe creative director JW Anderson’s eponymous brand does an incredible job at standing out in most regards, as these upscale espadrilles are practically night and day when placed against my other picks. Boasting a buttery calf upper placed atop rubber soles, the brand’s use of premium materials deems this pair the grail of its category.
Who is this for: Someone who wants to take their leisurely look to a luxurious new level. These are perfect for people who a.) will attend some sort of swanky summer party or b.) will go out of their way to make sure everyone knows these aren’t penny loafers.
Flaws but not deal breakers: Paying over $400 for a pair of shoes that are mainly intended for two seasons isn’t really a dealbreaker, but it’s surely a wallet breaker.
Material: Leather and rubber | Sizes: 39-47 IT | Colors: Black | Care: Leather cleaner
Why it’s great: With an upper composition of over 50% recycled cotton, TOMS’ water-saving design is an unavoidable choice in the affordable department. They also sit on an equally sustainable OrthoLite EcoLT-Hybrid insole to ensure maximum comfort, which is made using 26% eco content.
Who is this for: People on a budget who still prioritize dressing sustainably. TOMS’ use of recycled materials makes this an extremely conscious choice for those looking to lower their carbon footprint – literally. They’re also nice to wear around the house if you’re looking to replace those old slides.
Flaws but not deal breakers: The brand does not offer sizes for wider feet, which may restrict certain buyers.
Material: Recycled cotton, rubber, jute | Sizes: 7-14 | Colors: Navy, Black | Care: spot clean
Buying Considerations for the Best Men’s Espadrilles
Quality and Weight
Although the shoes are typically affordable and easy to swap if they fall apart (which they will), a well-constructed pair won’t just last longer, but they’ll be far more comfortable. That said, the best men’s espadrilles are constructed using high-quality materials like leather, suede, or durable canvas. On top of that, you should be mindful of the silhouette’s weight because, like virtually any other shoe, they’re far easier to wear for longer stints, especially throughout the spring and summer.
Material Composition:
Traditional espadrilles feature a sturdy jute rope sole, which in turn provides a classic look and natural breathability. However, modern options may incorporate rubber or synthetic materials for added durability and traction. All in all, this simply depends on what’s more comfortable for you.
Fit & Rise:
If you get a chance to test them out in person, then give it a whirl; anything you can do to make sure the espadrilles fit comfortably can’t hurt. The best pairs have enough room for your toes to move freely. And, in case you want to adjust fit on the fly, check out options with adjustable straps or elastic inserts. Consider the rise of the espadrilles, too, as opting for a style that sits well on your foot.
How I Choose
As the considerations above suggest, key factors I prioritized in my search included quality of materials, overall construction, and, last but not least, how they fit based on any extra embellishments. I also chose brands that are adept at crafting these silhouettes, on top of some higher-end names that can craft just about any shoe to a tee.
Company reputation: There’s no doubt a brand like TOMS was going to be on this list. But for the lesser-known names, I always do my research to see what sort of company they really are. Don’t worry, I’m happy to do the vetting for you.
Customer reviews: Anyone whose ever worked in the service industry knows the customer isn’t always right. But thousands of customers saying the same thing are sure to be onto something. I never recommend anything without seeing what the people have to say.
Value: A lot of expensive products can be shoddy, and a lot of well-priced ones can be pretty solid. It’s important for me to consider value, this is your hard-earned money, after all.
Why Trust Us
At FashionBeans, Yoni Yardeni’s expertise shines through in his meticulously researched articles on men’s grooming. With a deep dive into topics ranging from essential exfoliating washes and travel shavers for men, Yardeni’s work stands as a testament to his dedication and knowledge within the fashion and grooming sector. His approach combines professional insights with personal experiences, ensuring content that not only informs but also engages. This blend of thorough research, balanced reviews, and engagement with both high-end and everyday products underlines our commitment to delivering reliable and actionable advice. Yardeni’s articles are grounded in real user feedback and expert opinions, reflecting a holistic view that values both efficacy and personal style. Trust in our recommendations comes from this foundation of accuracy, comprehensive analysis, and a genuine desire to enhance your grooming routine and lifestyle choices.
Final Verdict
Overall, the best men’s espadrilles should strike the perfect balance between style, comfort, and quality; so, if you think you found what you’re looking for, that’s because each of these pairs prioritizes these details. Whether you prefer classic canvas options or more refined leather variations, you can find anything across the spectrum, whether it’s our best overall choice from Todd Snyder or affordable icons courtesy of TOMS.
FAQ
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Espadrilles shoes are as casual as any form of footwear can get, likely falling right beneath sandals on the leaderboard. They’re often constructed using a canvas or cotton upper and a sole made of rope or jute. They are known for their incredible breathability, making them popular for warm weather.
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Timeless may be an understatement when describing espadrilles, which have long been a stylish and popular footwear choice for beating the spring and summer heat. They are incredibly versatile and often appropriate for both casual and semi-formal occasions, making them a seamless addition to your shoe rack and day-to-ensemble.
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Although “espadrille” and “alpargata” are used interchangeably, the silhouettes tend to show subtle differences. Traditionally, the former refers to the type of shoe with a jute sole, while alpargata generally describes a flat, canvas shoe. The difference may not always be clear on the surface and at first glance, and the names are sometimes employed arbitrarily in the fashion industry.
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