“Fisherman sandals are a great option for those who prefer more coverage,” says Kay Barron, fashion director of Net-a-Porter. “They are more durable than the traditional flip-flop and sandal, making them a staple item to take you through the year, from spring into summer and then into fall with some clever styling.” With the addition of a thin, ribbed sock, this office-appropriate shoe choice looks even more polished and can be worn in situations where a peep-toe wouldn’t be appropriate. It’s also a simple solution to unpredictable spring and autumn days that call for a little extra layering, further extending fisherman sandals’ shelf life in your wardrobe, making the investment even more worthwhile.
Shop our edit of our favourite fisherman sandals that includes luxe options from the Row and Prada, as well as contemporary choices from Everlane, Reformation, and Madewell. Below, discover 14 fisherman sandals that are sure to become your new go-to shoes for the spring/summer season.
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courtesy of brands, collage by Sarah Olivieri
Best Affordable
Madewell Milano fisherman sandals
If you’ve been leaning into the suede trend all year, why stop now? Continue the love affair with a fisherman-style sandal made from the soft and sumptuous fabric. We like that this one has daintier straps and an open back, for a fresh twist on the timeless shoe. Plus, it has a padded insole for the ultimate in comfort with each and every stride.
Size Range: UK 3-9
Colours: brown, black or dark green
Materials: leather upper, leather lining, and synthetic sole
Best Investment
The Row fisherman woven textured-leather sandals
Most editors will tell you that The Row’s fisherman sandals are always on their designer wish list. The wide leather straps have an impeccably luxe texture, while the rubber soles are an added bonus, just in case you happen to be wearing them near water. The off-white colour will also go with everything.
Size Range: 35–42 IT (UK 2-9)
Colours: off-white, black
Materials: leather upper, foam rubber midsole, rubber sole
What experts are saying: “When the Row’s fisherman sandals first walked the runway many years ago, they become an instant must-have. It continues to be an investment piece to this day, with the chunkier silhouette providing a comfortable fit for the summer months.” —Kay Barron, fashion director at Net-a-Porter
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Best embellished
Prada brushed leather fisherman sandals
Prada’s fisherman sandals have been so popular, they’ve almost sold out everywhere. They are, however, still in stock at MyTheresa, but stock is low so you’ll need to be quick. Featuring the brand’s logo, these stylish sandals will upgrade any outfit, from jeans and T-shirts to floaty summer dresses.
Size Range: 2-8.5
Colours: black
Materials: leather upper, rubber sole
Best black
Cos fisherman sandals
Wide, interwoven straps, a square-toe design, and a comfortable stacked heel makes this shoe the perfect everyday option. We can’t wait to wear it with everything from full-volume cotton dresses to office-appropriate summer suiting.
Size Range: 36-42
Colours: black
Materials: leather upper, lining, sock, and sole
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Best Leather
Everlane day fisherman sandals
Everlane uses soft nappa leather to craft its fisherman sandal. True to the brand’s ever-conscious designs, the leather used is made in a tannery that has been gold-rate certified by the Leather Working Group for best practices. Not only is this style simple enough for everyday wear, it is a feel-good purchase as well.
Size Range: US 5–11
Colours: rum, black, canvas, saddle brown suede
Materials: leather upper and lining
What customers are saying: “Love these shoes! I got the brown and tromped all over Spain with no blisters, which is unusual for my soft feet. There is more padding in the sole than one sees at first glance. Liked so much I got the ivory as well.”
Best Handmade
Ancient Greek Sandals Karina fisherman sandals
Handmade in Greece, Ancient Greek Sandals honours the timeless, artisanal craft of leather shoe making by working with traditional techniques and using chemical-free, naturally tanned leather. Not only are the results sustainable, they’re also extremely stylish, just like this take on the classic shoe design.
Size Range: 36-42 IT
Colours: black, beige
Materials: leather upper and footbed, rubber sole
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Best Minimalist
Reformation Freya fisherman sandals
No bells and whistles, just pure refinement. Reformation’s fisherman sandals refrain from unnecessary frills, with sleek results. With a slight almond-toe shape, they feel like the pair you’re going to wear to the office all summer with easy tailoring, knit polos, and midi skirts, or even a cotton shirtdress.
Size Range: 3-9
Colours: black, white
Materials: leather upper
Best white
Mansur Gavriel fisherman sandals
These super-chic sandals will give any ensemble summery vibes, and you can wear them as easily in the city as you can on the beach. The gold buckle lends a luxe edge without ruining the sleek minimalism of these shoes.
Size Range: EU 36-41
Colours: cream
Materials: leather upper
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Best tan
Grenson Queenie sandals
Made of the highest quality leather, Grenson’s sandals will last a lifetime, even if you wear them every day. Try with tailored shorts and tucked-in tank tops, or with floor-skimming maxi dresses for hot holiday nights.