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. They were originally worn by soldiers and peasants in the Pyrenees between France and Spain because they were affordable and durable.
Espadrilles, once a humble footwear option, have evolved into a versatile and popular style. 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. These are easy to slip on and are very comfortable. Modern examples can be made of high-quality materials, such as leather, suede or recycled fabrics. They are designed to suit a variety of styles.
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. The timeless versatility and charm of espadrilles are embodied in each pair, from classic canvas to luxurious leather.
What you need to know
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. They are a stylish and comfortable casual option with their combination of Italian hairy suede and leather.
Who is it for: The guys who prefer plain, simple clothes that are a bit old-fashioned. But still want to stand out from J. Crews and Banana Republics. 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.
There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. 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 it 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).
There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. Sizes are limited. They range from 7-12, based on US standard. Brands do recommend going down one size.
Material: Suede | Sizes: 40-46 IT | Colors: Beige, Navy | Care: Clean up your act
Why it’s great: Stacy Adams’ hybrid design is durable and can last for months. However, there’s a caveat to that, which we’ll touch on later.
Who is it 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!
There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. Remember when I said that wearing them continuously comes with a warning? One flaw of the shoes (for many, at least) is their discomfort after prolonged wear.
Material: Memory foam and suede | 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.
What is this for?These are perfect for people who a.) want to elevate their look from casual to luxurious. These are great for those who a. They are ideal for those who will a. will go out of their way to make sure everyone knows these aren’t penny loafers.
A few flaws are not enough to stop you: 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. To ensure maximum comfort they also have an OrthoLite EcoLT Hybrid insole, made from 26% eco content.
What is this for?Those on a tight budget but who prioritize sustainability in their wardrobe. 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.
There are flaws, but they do not mean that the product is defective. Brand does not offer sizes that accommodate wider feet. This may limit certain customers.
Material: Recycled cottons, rubbers, and jute | Sizes: 7-14 | Colors: Navy, Black | Care: Clean up your act
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 are made with a durable jute-rope sole. This provides a classic appearance and natural breathability. Modern options can include rubber or synthetic materials to increase durability and grip. 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. Best pairs allow your toes enough space to move around. If you need to change the fit of your shoes on the go, look for options that have adjustable straps and elastic inserts. Also, consider espadrilles if you want a style which fits well.
How I Choose
In addition to the factors mentioned above, I also prioritized quality materials, overall construction and how they fit, based on any additional embellishments. I chose brands who are experts at creating these silhouettes. These were in addition to some high-end names, which can create any shoe.
Reputation of the company: There’s no doubt a brand like TOMS was going to be on this list. For lesser-known brands, I do research to find out what kind of company they 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. The same thing said by thousands of people is a good sign. I would never recommend anything before reading what other people think.
Value: Some expensive products may be substandard, while others that are reasonably priced can be quite good. It’s important for me to consider value, this is your hard-earned money, after all.
Why You Should 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. Yardeni’s approach blends professional insights and personal experiences for content that engages as well as informs. This combination of in-depth research, balanced product reviews, and engaging with high-end as well as everyday products, underlines our commitment for delivering reliable, 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. Our recommendations are based on accuracy, thorough analysis, and the genuine desire to improve your lifestyle and grooming.
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.
The FAQ
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The casualness of these shoes is unmatched, and they are likely to be right behind sandals in the footwear leaderboard. They’re often constructed using a canvas or cotton upper and a sole made of rope or jute. These shoes are popular in warm weather because of their breathability.
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Espadrilles are a timeless footwear option that has been popular for many years. They’re a great way to beat the summer and spring heat. These shoes are versatile, and can be worn for casual or semi-formal events. They will fit in seamlessly with your everyday outfit.
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Although “espadrille” and “alpargata” are used interchangeably, the silhouettes tend to show subtle differences. Alpargata is generally a flat canvas shoe. It is not always clear at first glance and on the surface. The fashion industry sometimes uses the terms arbitrarily.
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