12 Best Fisherman Sandals to Wear in 2024 That’ll Easily Reel You In
Nope, not clickbait (heh). These shoes are seriously cute.
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I know you've long flung your fave fuzzy socks and perhaps, even your shoes into the wind (or closet—that works, too). This summer and even early fall, we're freeing our feet by way of fisherman sandals—ya know, the woven shoes your 'rents used to wear...oh, and actual fishermen, too.
I get it! You either love 'em or hate 'em. But however you feel about this trend, what's undeniable is that they're making a strong comeback thanks to the unique twists from runway designers like Tory Burch, Loewe, Miu Miu, Versace, and Prada. Take a quick scroll on Insta and I'm pretty sure you'll also find your fave influencer in a pair!
Sure, these sandals are having a major moment rn, but they're actually a classic—globally and in terms of fashion. I even remember seeing old photos of my parents wearing their brown leather braided fisherman sandals in Haiti (aka "batas" in Creole). You'll also find renditions that originated in European and Spanish cultures. Obvi, there's just something about the fisherman sandal that's effortlessly timeless—and this season, it's got a big fashion upgrade, so you can try out this style, too. Coming right up, 12 of the best fisherman sandals from Zara, Steve Madden, and many more to add to cart ASAP!
Our top picks for the best fisherman sandals of 2024:
These fab finds were maybe not made for fishing—rather for strutting, closing deals, hitting the pavement, and whatever else you wanna do! You should totally style 'em with denim or summer shorts and a breezy top, BTW! Also, here are some travel sandals that I'm pretty sure you'll need on those vacays comin' up.
Pros
- Great for feet with no arches
- Wide-feet friendly
- Comfortable fit
Cons
- Center strap sometime shifts
We don't do talk about Bruno—Steve Madden has given us all the reason to with this rocker-aesthetic fisherman style. With a stark black coat, silver hardware, .75 inch heel height, and gladiator-like ankle strap, you'll be looking like the toughest on the block in no time.
| Sizes: | 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Black |
| Material: | Vegan Leather |
Pros
- More flexible than PVC styles
- 4 stunning colorways
- Secure hardware
Cons
- No flatform rendition available
Sure, you know about JW Pei for all the cute viral bags and the puffy sandal that's everywhere these days but allow me to put you onto this platform sandal.
| Sizes: | 5-10 |
|---|---|
| Color(s) | Brown, Beige & Orange, Yellow, and Pink |
| Material: | TPU, Vegan Leather, Rubber |
Pros
- It's unisex
- The colorways are eye-catching and there are staples, too!
- Made of real leather
Cons
- This runs large
Yes, Dr. Martens—the brand known for combat boots—has it's own hybrid fisherman sandal! Like, how cool is this? The smooth leather in this pretty hue (you should see the periwinkle one, too) and matte finish is enough to convince me I absolutely need these.
| Sizes: | 5-11 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Coral, Black, Blue, White, and more. |
| Material: | Leather |
Pros
- Available in 3 colorways
- Padded insoles
- True to size
Cons
- The black style has brown trimming (no all-black style available)
Okay, so this isn't your typical fisherman sandal but you get the vibes! This sturdy design will keep you locked in for all your adventures ahead. Plus, how about that cute cut-out detail?
| Sizes: | 5-11 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Caramel, Chalk, Black |
| Material: | Natural PU |
Pros
- Stand-out shoe
- A great choice for fancier events
- Perf for slipping on after you're tired of your heels
Cons
- Only available in one colorway
These slip-on options are ridiculously cute and a steal! Plus, they look expensive in person! I'm heart eyes over the color, the material, and the crossed straps.
| Sizes: | 5-11 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Gold |
| Material: | Polyurethane |
Pros
- Super chic
- Ideal for summer work days
- A cool picnic vibe
Cons
- No arch support
Get a load of these leather cage beauts! The thick straps are oh-so-chic (and great for when you're in need of a pedicure but still want to wear sandals).
| Sizes: | 5-11 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Ivory |
| Material: | Leather |
Pros
- Soft and flexible
- Super durable
- Smells AMAZING
Cons
- The images aren't true to color (but reviewers obsess over 'em anyway).
Did you really think we were gonna do a roundup without an OG jelly sandal?! This '90s shoe was such a staple and still lives on today and in tons of colorways. *gently wipes away tear*
| Sizes: | 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Brown, Purple |
| Material: | PVC |
Pros
- Made in Portugal
- Cushioned footbed
- Stacked heel
Cons
- No other colorways
Idk if you know but olive is essentially a basic. And these gold-tone buckles will elevate every lazy-cool look you've got planned this summer.
| Sizes: | 36-41 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Olive |
| Material: | Leather |
Pros
- Affordable
- Perf for hitting the boardwalk
- Great height
Cons
- The plastic material may irritate after awhile.
Flatform babes, these are for you. This elevated look consists of cork material and clear straps so you can have ease and versatility-YAY.
| Sizes: | 4-12 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Clear/Cork |
| Material: | Synthetic |
Pros
- Lofty style
- Cushioned footbed
- Low-key guaranteed to brighten up your day
Cons
- May make feet sweat
Bring the sunshine in every situation with these bright and cushy platform fisherman sandals that feature a croc-embossed design. This pair is a lil heavier but it makes up for it with how just how cute they are, right?!
| Sizes: | 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Yellow Ray, Black, Chalk, and more. |
| Material: | Leather |
Pros
- A compliment magnet
- Affordable
- Perf for summer adventures
Cons
- V uncomfy until you break in
Compliments are comin' your way with these on your feet. If you're looking for a cute, affordable, and maybe even a last-minute shoe (hi, Prime shipping!), your search is over.
| Sizes: | 6-11 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Off-White, Black |
| Material: | Rubber |
Sam Edelman Dawn Sandal in Modern Ivory
Pros
- True-to-size
- Can be worn for long periods without discomfort
- Won't give ya blisters!
Cons
- You may need to break them in
Good news: you can wear these ALL DAY. These stylish, highly recommended shoes give your feet room to swell on those hot, sweaty days. Plus, the soles are well made and comfy.
| Sizes: | 5-11 |
|---|---|
| Color(s): | Black, Saddle Se, Bleeched Beechwood, and more. |
| Material: | Synthetic |
What are fisherman sandals...really?
Basically, they're a fusion of jellies, the gladiator, and a hint of the huarache sandal. Fisherman sandals typically have an open design that allows air to flow and stops water from pooling in (so instead, water drains out). Talk about ventilation!
They usually protect your precious feet pretty well because of the interwoven straps, and there's often some sort of buckle fastening. Plus, the enclosed toe makes for a functional fashion win. Many designers stay true to the fisherman's classic form (it's all about the leather, bb) but it's been refreshing seeing the new editions like the colorful choices we chose above!
A quick history lesson for ya.
Let's go waaay back. As you may have figured out, today's fisherman lewk is inspired by the shoes fishermen and women have worn for hundreds of years! The trend draws major inspo from ancient forms of footwear, with illustrations revealing that variations of these sandals were worn around the world since forever. We're talkin' style that stemmed from the thick-sole sandals of historic Roman soldiers.
Here's where you can wear 'em.
Um, pretty much everywhere! Before all the hype, these sandals were worn in super casual settings and would have never been considered an option for anywhere else. But things have changed! While fisherman sandals are still a great practical choice if you're into boating and fishing, you can dress them up with a luxe jumpsuit or a gorge summer dress for work, errands, or some fun with your besties.
So, how did we choose the best sandals?
We have a good feeling we'll be seeing more fashionable takes on the fisherman sandal real soon, but in the meantime, reel in our faves before they sell out!
Cosmo’s team of fashion experts—which includes fashion director Cassie Anderson and fashion features director Rachel Torgerson, senior accessories editor Andrea Zendejas, and fashion editors Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien and Danielle Flum—have decades of experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we've curated a chic little corner of the internet for you like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.
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