Loafers and boat shoes have a place in every man’s wardrobe (the former more than the latter), but there’s something about throwing on a pair of slides and heading out the door that feels freeing. The best slides are casual and unpretentious, projecting a specific kind of “IDGAF” energy that’s perfect for a day in the summer sun.
This recent shift into vogue for slides means there are more options out there than ever before, potentially making your choice harder, but also guaranteeing there’s a perfect pair for everyone. So if you’re in the market for a pair of summer-ready footwear, we wanted to wrap up a few of the best slides available today.
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Birkenstock Arizona SFB Taupe Suede Leather
Kicking things off with a classic, the Birkenstock Arizona isn’t as popular as it is because it looks great — it’s popular because it’s comfortable, hardwearing, and arrives in dozens of different colours and materials. In saying that, it doesn’t look cheap and looks the part in most casual settings, making it one of the most versatile slides there is.
Suicoke MOTO-Cab
Gorpcore isn’t restricted to Arc’teryx jackets and Patagonia vests — the utilitarian style has made it to the slide game with the MOTO-Cab by Suicoke a prime example of overengineered casual footwear. The upper is made from robust neoprene and nylon that’s secured with Velcro, while the Vibram sole promises a high-traction walking experience on the way to the cafe.
Rodd & Gunn Raglan Slide
We’re big fans of Rodd & Gunn here in the Boss Hunting office and while the New Zealand-based brand makes great threads, it also produces some high-quality slides. Specifically, the Raglan Slide features a nice leather upper, flexible outsole, and a luxuriously comfortable suede-wrapped moulded footbed.
King Kennedy Rugs KKS-0225
King Kennedy Rugs is an LA-based brand that transforms antique rugs into everything from clothes and bags to furniture and automotive interior finishings. It’s also got a great line-up of rubber footbed slides wrapped in synthetic leather, with uppers crafted from hundred-year-old rug pieces, making each slide completely unique.
HOKA Ora Recovery Slide 3
If you fancy yourself a bit of an athlete you’ll know the HOKA name from its high-stack performance running shoes, but the brand also produces casual slides to wear between training sessions. Made from injection-moulded EVA with ventilated airflow channels, they’ll keep your feet cool on a hot summer day, while also providing maximum cushioning to enhance your recovery.
Gucci Slide Sandal
The Gucci slide is a classic within the category for good reason — it’s premium, instantly recognisable, and manufactured in Italy. If you’re after a pair of slides that can be elevated for any occasion, the Gucci Slide Sandal is one you need to seriously consider.
Birkenstock Arizona EVA Black
If you love Birkenstock’s Arizona silhouette but are worried about taking good care of the leather uppers and cork footbeds, the German-founded brand also produces it in a robust, weatherproof EVA. Especially for anyone living in the tropics where rain is a regular factor to contend with, it’s a great option that looks good and won’t deteriorate over time.
Todd Snyder Nomad Suede Slide
If you love how comfortable hotel slippers are, the Nomad Suede Slide by Todd Snyder is basically a hotel slipper you can happily wear beyond the confines of your suite. It’s simple in its design, but no expense has been spared in its construction and material quality, with Italian suede uppers, a moulded footbed, and an EVA outsole that combines to create one of the more elegant slides you’ll find.
Teva Hurricane Verge Slide
The Teva Hurricane Verge is another performance-focused option that takes the very best of a serious hiking boot and translates it into a casual, comfortable slide. The upper features polyester webbing and quick-dry mesh with a robust buckle to secure them on your feet, while the EVA footbed and rubber outsole promise comfort and traction for every wear.
Bottega Veneta Tarik Mule
If you’re after a no-expense-spared pair of slides but want something a little more under the radar than Gucci’s offering, the Bottega Veneta Tarik Mule is as premium as it gets. Manufactured in Italy, they feature padded Intrecciato leather uppers, a lambskin lining, and a rubber outsole.
Adidas Adilette Slide
Last, but certainly not least, is an icon within the world of slides from Adidas. Created as a shower slide for the German national football team, the current generation of the Adilette Slide is both affordable and comfortable, making it perfect as a casual everyday summer slide.
If you enjoyed this round-up of the best slides for summer, check out Boss Hunting’s other footwear-focused Buyer’s Guides below:
- The Ultimate Men’s Shoe Size Conversion Guide
- How To Clean Suede Shoes Like A Pro
- How To Polish Your Shoes Like A Pro
- The 17 Best Men’s Shoe Brands Right Now
- Boat Shoes Are Back (And Better Than Ever)
- The 15 Best Men’s Winter Boots For All Conditions
- The 13 Best “Dad Shoes” To Unlock Your Big Dad Energy
- 5 Exceptionally Louche Sneaker Alternatives For A Post-Streetwear World
