9 Best Closed Sandals for Men 2026

These budget-friendly champs deliver far more than their price tag suggests. With a breathable mesh upper and quick-drying lining, the SAGUARO sandals excel in hot, wet environments—perfect for beachgoers or trail hikers who don’t want soggy feet. The self-locking laces and dual adjustable straps offer a secure fit that adapts well to different foot shapes, solving the common issue of slippage during active wear.

In real-world testing, they handled rocky riverbeds and sandy trails with commendable grip, thanks to the slip-resistant rubber outsole featuring deep treads. While not built for technical backpacking, they manage light hiking and water crossings impressively. The lightweight EVA midsole keeps fatigue at bay over moderate distances, though extended uphill treks expose their limited cushioning. They’re best suited for casual adventurers who need versatility without the premium cost.

Compared to the pricier KEEN Newport H2, the SAGUARO model trades some arch support and material durability for affordability and flexibility. But for travelers, festival-goers, or budget-conscious families, these sandals strike a smart balance between function and cost. They may not last five years like a KEEN, but for value-packed performance, they’re hard to beat.

The gold standard in men’s closed-toe sandals, the KEEN Newport H2 combines rugged performance with all-day comfort. Its bungee lace system delivers a secure, customizable fit in seconds—ideal for those hopping in and out of water. The iconic toe bumper provides real protection against rocks and trail hazards, a rare feature in most water sandals, making it a top pick for hikers and boaters alike.

Out on the trails, these sandals shine with their multi-directional lugs and siping channels, which actively displace water and mud for superior grip on slippery rocks. The non-removable footbed offers solid arch support, reducing foot fatigue during full-day wear—something many competitors skimp on. Whether wading through streams or walking city streets, the shock-absorbing midsole keeps strides comfortable. They do run slightly narrow, so wide-footed users should consider sizing up.

When stacked against the KEEN Hyperport H2, the Newport H2 wins in support and durability, though it’s marginally heavier. It’s the ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts who demand protection, traction, and long-term comfort in one rugged package. While not the lightest option, it sets the benchmark for overall performance and build quality.

The lightest lift in the KEEN lineup, the Hyperport H2 is engineered for those who hate fumbling with laces. Its pull-on design with bungee lace capture makes it a breeze to slip on and off, perfect for airport security, quick dips, or spontaneous trail detours. Despite the streamlined entry, it doesn’t skimp on safety—featuring the same siped rubber sole as its siblings for excellent wet-surface traction.

We tested these on coastal hikes and urban walks, and the high-rebound cushioning proved surprisingly resilient, absorbing impact without bulk. The KEEN Original Fit gives toes room to splay, making it a standout for wide-footed wearers. The quick-dry webbing straps handled saltwater and sweat without odor buildup, though the lack of a heel lock can lead to minor slippage on steep descents.

Compared to the Newport H2, the Hyperport sacrifices a bit of foot security for speed and lightness—a fair trade for travelers and commuters. It’s not the best for technical terrain, but for effortless transition between water, trail, and town, it’s unmatched. It delivers KEEN-level quality in a minimalist, go-anywhere package.

Don’t let the low price fool you—these value-packed hikers punch above their weight. The faux leather upper molds to the foot over time, offering a personalized, broken-in feel without the cost of real leather. Combined with a breathable mesh lining, they keep feet cool and dry even on sweltering days, making them ideal for humid climates or water-adjacent adventures.

On rugged trails, the deep-tread rubber outsole held firm on wet stones and loose gravel, providing confidence on uneven ground. The elastic straps with hook-and-loop closures allow for micro-adjustments, ensuring a snug fit without pressure points. The EVA midsole with arch support reduced fatigue during multi-hour hikes, though long-distance trekkers might crave more cushioning.

Against the SAGUARO model, the Queday offers better materials and a more premium look at only a slight cost increase. It’s the smart pick for budget-focused buyers who still want hiking-ready durability and water-friendly function. For style, protection, and performance on a budget, it’s a standout.

Step into effortless summer living with the DOCKERS Searose—a sandal built for casual comfort and everyday ease. The dual-layer footbed with Memory Foam delivers plush underfoot support, making it a go-to for dads, retirees, or anyone spending hours on concrete or tile. The Velcro closures allow instant adjustments, so you can slip them on for school drop-offs or sunset drinks without hassle.

In daily wear tests, they excelled on pavement and boardwalks, with a flexible sole that bends naturally with each step. The tumbled synthetic upper resists water and stains, bouncing back after rain or poolside spills. They’re not designed for hiking, and the tread offers only basic grip on slick surfaces. But for lounging, errands, or dockside hangs, they’re perfectly suited.

Compared to the Dr. Scholl’s Gaston, the Searose offers similar all-day softness but with a more modern, sporty look. It’s less rugged than hiking-focused models but beats them in pure comfort for urban use. If you want one pair by the door for warm-weather spontaneity, this is it.

Crafted for style-conscious adventurers, the Arkbird sandals blend authentic leather charm with outdoor functionality. The top-grain leather upper develops a rich patina over time, aging beautifully while conforming to your foot’s shape—something synthetic models can’t match. Paired with a breathable mesh lining, they stay comfortable even during extended wear in warm weather.

The OrthoLite insole provides consistent cushioning, reducing strain on long walks or beach strolls. The three Velcro straps allow precise adjustments, locking the foot in place without pinching. On wet rocks or grass, the non-slip sole held firm, though deep mud exposed its moderate lug depth. They’re not for serious backpacking, but for light trails and town-to-trail transitions, they perform well.

Against the Feichi leather model, the Arkbird wins in aesthetic versatility, offering a cleaner look that pairs with chinos or shorts. It lacks the Feichi’s massage insole but delivers better overall balance of style, comfort, and durability. For those who want leather craftsmanship without sacrificing function, it’s a top contender.

Engineered for dual-duty dominance, the DREAM PAIRS sandals thrive where trails meet tides. The reinforced toe cap adds real protection against stubs and impacts—making them a reliable ally on rocky riverbeds or construction-adjacent job sites. Combined with a molded EVA footbed, they offer targeted arch support that outperforms many budget models.

In mixed-terrain testing, the TPR outsole with deep lugs maintained grip on mossy stones and muddy banks, though it struggled slightly on steep, slick inclines. The toggle laces and heel strap kept feet locked in place during fast-paced hikes, a rare combo in this price range. The quick-dry mesh dried within an hour of water exposure, staying odor-free after repeated use.

Pitted against the SAGUARO model, these deliver better support and durability for serious hiking, though they’re less versatile as slides. They’re the ideal pick for anglers, kayakers, or hikers who need rugged protection and water-ready function in one affordable package. For performance that bridges trail and water, they’re unmatched.

When all-day comfort is non-negotiable, the Dr. Scholl’s Gaston delivers with podiatrist-inspired design. The memory foam insole molds instantly to your foot, absorbing impact like a well-cushioned sneaker—perfect for teachers, nurses, or anyone on their feet for hours. Wrapped in full-grain leather, the upper feels premium and ages gracefully, elevating it above typical sport sandals.

We wore them through a full workday and a dinner walk, and fatigue was minimal—thanks to the soft, pressure-relieving footbed. The hook-and-loop closure allows for quick adjustments, accommodating slight swelling by day’s end. However, the flat sole lacks aggressive tread, so they’re best on pavement or dry ground. They’re not for hiking or wet conditions.

Compared to the DOCKERS Searose, the Gaston offers superior cushioning and a dressier profile, making it better for office-adjacent outings. It’s not rugged, but for urban comfort with a polished look, it’s a top performer. It proves support and style can coexist—even in sandal form.

The arch support champion, the Feichi sandals are built for those who suffer from flat feet or overpronation. The upgraded MD rubber sole delivers 65% higher rebound and 120% compression resistance, translating to real-world relief on long hikes or standing-heavy jobs. The latex massage insole with textured particles stimulates circulation, reducing fatigue over time.

In testing, they excelled on concrete and packed dirt trails, where their arch-contoured footbed outperformed most rivals. The genuine leather upper feels soft and molds quickly, though it darkens slightly when wet. The Velcro straps allow quick adjustments, but the heel strap can loosen during fast walking. They’re not the lightest, but the support justifies the weight.

Next to the Arkbird, the Feichi wins in functional comfort and medical-grade support, though it’s less stylish. For hikers, workers, or travelers with foot pain, it’s a game-changer. It offers orthotic-level benefits without the clinical look—a rare win in men’s sandals.