9 Best Athletic Sandals for Men 2026

If you’re searching for cloud-like comfort in a slide, the Alpine Swiss Gabe delivers with a bold promise—and actually lives up to it. The ultra-thick EVA foam insole isn’t just soft; it’s engineered to rebound with every step, offering exceptional shock absorption that turns concrete sidewalks into forgiving paths. Add in the ergonomic deep-cupped footbed with built-in arch support, and you’ve got a recovery sandal that feels like therapy for tired feet—perfect for post-workout relief or long days on your feet.

In real-world testing, these slides excel in low-impact environments: think gym locker rooms, poolside strolls, or lazy weekends at home. The waterproof, breathable EVA construction handles splashes and sweat without breaking a sweat, while the textured outsole offers solid grip on wet tiles and smooth floors. However, they’re not built for trails or rugged terrain—the single strap limits foot lockdown, and the open design leaves toes exposed. They’re also not ideal for wide feet, as the updated fit leans narrow despite claims of true-to-size accuracy.

Compared to the Under Armour Ignite Pro Slide, the Gabe stands out with superior arch support and a more durable foam that won’t flatten over time. While both are slide-style and budget-friendly, the Alpine Swiss model offers a more contoured, supportive experience that bridges the gap between cheap foam flips and premium recovery footwear. It’s the best choice for anyone prioritizing comfort and foot health over adventure-ready durability.

The KEEN Newport H2 doesn’t just enter the water sandal game—it dominates it with rugged protection and trail-ready confidence. From the moment you slip them on, the bungee lace system locks your foot in place, offering a secure, adjustable fit that stays put whether you’re scrambling over wet rocks or hiking through shallow streams. The iconic rubber toe bumper is a game-changer, shielding your feet from impacts without sacrificing breathability, making these a top pick for adventurers who demand real foot protection.

On the trail, these sandals shine. The non-marking rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs grips slick surfaces like boat decks and mossy riverbanks with impressive tenacity. The shock-absorbing midsole cushions long hikes, and the generous forefoot space lets toes splay naturally, reducing fatigue. They dry quickly and handle submersion without issue, though the synthetic straps can retain a slight odor after repeated wet use. While they’re heavier than slide-style sandals, that weight translates to stability on uneven ground.

When stacked against the Teva Terra Fi 5, the Newport H2 offers better toe protection and a more secure lace system, but with slightly less eco-conscious materials. The Teva wins on sustainability with recycled webbing, but KEEN delivers unmatched durability and foot coverage. For anyone who spends serious time in and around water—kayakers, hikers, or beach campers—these are the gold standard in protective water sandals, blending safety, comfort, and performance in one rugged package.

Don’t let the modest price tag fool you—the Under Armour Ignite Pro Slide packs a surprising punch in the budget-friendly comfort department. Built with a textured EVA foam footbed, it delivers a snug, cradled feel that outperforms most foam slides in its class. The perforated synthetic strap adds breathability, preventing that sticky, sweaty discomfort common in cheaper models, while the durable traction pods in the heel provide reliable grip on gym floors and shower tiles.

In daily use, these slides are ideal for short commutes, gym sessions, or post-shower wear. They’re light as air and slip on effortlessly, making them perfect for quick errands or lazy weekends. However, they lack arch support and deep heel cups, so extended walking leads to foot fatigue. The foam, while comfortable at first, shows signs of compression after a few weeks of heavy use. They’re also not water-ready in the true sense—more splash-resistant than submersible.

Compared to the Alpine Swiss Gabe, the Ignite Pro Slide is less supportive but more affordable and breathable. It’s the go-to for no-frills, everyday wear where cost matters more than long-term cushioning. If you need a reliable, no-nonsense slide for light use and want to save cash, this model delivers solid value without major compromises—just don’t expect all-day hiking comfort.

The Teva Terra Fi 5 doesn’t just claim to be the best overall—it earns the title with trail-smart engineering and eco-conscious integrity. From the first step, the molded PU midsole delivers firm yet forgiving support, ideal for loaded day hikes or rugged coastal trails. The hook-and-loop closure is rugged and secure, staying locked even during scrambling, while the 60% recycled polyester mesh lining keeps feet cool and reduces environmental impact without sacrificing comfort.

Out on the trail, these sandals prove their mettle. The Spider Rubber outsole grips wet granite, muddy roots, and loose gravel with mountain-boot tenacity, and the TPU shank adds torsional stability when trekking over uneven terrain. The quick-dry webbing, made from recycled plastic via REPREVE, withstands constant exposure to water and sun without fraying. They’re also surprisingly comfortable right out of the box—no break-in required. The only downside? They’re pricier than most, and the PU midsole, while supportive, isn’t as plush as EVA for urban walking.

Pitted against the KEEN Newport H2, the Terra Fi 5 offers better breathability, lighter weight, and superior eco-credentials, while the KEEN wins on toe protection. But for a true hybrid of trail performance and sustainability, the Terra Fi 5 stands alone. It’s the ideal all-rounder for hikers, travelers, and eco-conscious adventurers who refuse to compromise on performance or planet.

The Teva Katavi 2 is a lightweight trail warrior built for those who want hike-ready support without the bulk of boots. With a contoured EVA midsole and nylon shank, it delivers surprisingly stable underfoot support on rocky paths and forest trails, making it a standout for light to moderate hiking. The hook-and-loop straps are durable and easy to adjust, even with muddy hands, and the rugged Durabrasion Rubber outsole resists wear on abrasive surfaces like gravel and pavement.

In real-world testing, these sandals handle day hikes up to 5–6 miles with ease. The supple suede upper molds to the foot over time, offering a broken-in feel faster than expected, and the recyclable design via TevaForever adds long-term value. However, they’re not fully water-ready—the suede absorbs moisture and dries slowly, making them less ideal for river crossings. The traction is solid but not elite, slipping slightly on wet algae-covered rocks compared to the Terra Fi 5.

Compared to the Teva Langdon, the Katavi 2 is more performance-oriented and trail-capable, while the Langdon leans into casual style. For anyone seeking a durable, supportive sandal for weekend hikes and outdoor adventures, the Katavi 2 strikes the perfect balance. It’s more rugged than casual sandals, yet more comfortable than technical models, offering trail confidence at a mid-range price.

The Teva Langdon redefines casual sophistication in the athletic sandal world, blending premium leather craftsmanship with everyday versatility. From the moment you put them on, the rich, supple leather upper feels luxurious against the skin, aging beautifully with wear like a favorite pair of boots. The molded EVA midsole offers light cushioning, and the nylon shank adds subtle stability—enough for city strolls or campground lounging, but not for serious trail work.

In urban and relaxed settings, the Langdon excels. It transitions seamlessly from brunch dates to beach walks, thanks to its elegant walnut finish and clean lines. The rubber outsole provides reliable grip on pavement and wooden decks, and the breathable mesh lining keeps feet from overheating in summer heat. However, it’s not built for water—the leather stains if soaked, and the design lacks quick-dry features. It’s also less adjustable than other Teva models, with only one strap across the instep.

When compared to the Teva Hurricane XLT2, the Langdon trades water-readiness for style, while the Hurricane wins for aquatic adventures. But for those who want a stylish, durable sandal that bridges casual and outdoor wear, the Langdon is unmatched. It’s the perfect choice for fashion-conscious men who value long-term aesthetics and comfort over hardcore performance—a sandal that looks as good with chinos as it does with shorts.

When it comes to water adventures, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a legend in the making—light, buoyant, and built to thrive where most sandals fail. The water-ready polyester webbing dries fast and resists stretching, even after days of kayaking or snorkeling, while the EVA foam footbed offers soft, supportive cushioning that stays comfortable hour after hour. The adjustable straps with ladder lock buckles ensure a custom, secure fit, locking your foot in place during swift currents or sudden jumps off docks.

In aquatic environments, these sandals dominate. They float, drain well, and maintain grip on slippery boat decks and mossy riverbanks. The open strapping system maximizes airflow and prevents water retention, making them ideal for tropical climates or multi-day rafting trips. However, the minimalist footbed lacks arch support, leading to fatigue on long hikes. The buckles can pinch if not adjusted properly, and the thin webbing may chafe sensitive skin over time.

Stacked against the KEEN Newport H2, the Hurricane XLT2 is lighter and more breathable, but offers less foot protection and toe coverage. It’s the ultimate sandal for swimmers, paddlers, and beachcombers who prioritize freedom, floatability, and quick-dry performance. If your adventures revolve around water sports and tropical travel, this model delivers unmatched aquatic agility and comfort—a true open-water champion.

The visionreast Men’s Leather Sandals bring serious off-road durability to the table with a rugged, workwear-inspired design that laughs at rough terrain. Built with first-layer cowhide and elastic fabric, they’re tough yet breathable, handling mud, water, and sun exposure without cracking or warping. The 3 adjustable Velcro straps offer a custom lockdown fit, while the air-cushion outsole reduces ground vibration by up to 50%—a game-changer on rocky trails or concrete construction sites.

In outdoor testing, these sandals prove their worth. The polymer air-cushion sole absorbs impact like a trail shoe, and the deep tread pattern bites into loose soil and gravel with confidence. They’re fully waterproof, making them suitable for fishing, hiking, or festival camping. However, the break-in period is noticeable—the leather feels stiff at first—and the bulkier profile makes them less ideal for casual wear. They also run slightly narrow, which may frustrate wider-footed users.

Compared to the Dockers Newpage, the visionreast model offers superior outdoor durability and shock absorption, while the Dockers win on memory foam comfort and urban style. For anyone tackling demanding outdoor jobs or rugged adventures, these sandals deliver industrial-grade resilience with athletic functionality. They’re the go-to for laborers, hikers, and off-grid travelers who need footwear that won’t quit— built like a boot, worn like a sandal.

The Dockers Newpage sandal is a masterclass in all-day comfort, engineered for men who spend hours on their feet without wanting to look like they’re headed to the trailhead. The dual-layer footbed—fusing memory foam with Dockers’ Fusion Technology—molds to your foot, delivering a plush, personalized landing with every step. Add in the flex-motion design and Velcro strap adjustability, and you’ve got a sandal that moves with you, whether you’re walking downtown or standing at a barbecue.

In real-world use, these sandals shine during extended wear. The distressed synthetic upper handles rain and spills with ease, drying quickly and resisting scuffs. The rubber outsole provides reliable grip on pavement and wooden decks, and the generous fit prevents pinching or pressure points. However, they’re not water-ready—more suited for drizzle than dunking. The memory foam softens over time, but can compress with heavy use, and the style leans casual, not athletic.

Compared to the Under Armour Ignite Pro Slide, the Newpage offers far superior cushioning and support, making it better for all-day urban wear. It’s the ideal hybrid for dads, workers, and travelers who want comfort-first footwear that doesn’t scream ‘gym slide’. If you need a durable, supportive sandal for daily errands and relaxed outings, the Newpage delivers long-haul comfort with understated style—a quiet performer that never quits.