The weather is heating up, which means it’s time to fling your fave fuzzy socks and shoes into the wind (or closet—that works, too). This spring, 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. (They call them “batas” in the Creole language!) 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, 13 of the best fisherman sandals from Zara, Prada, and many more to add to cart ASAP!
Our top picks for the best fisherman sandals of 2022:
IF CHUNKY SOLES ARE YOUR FRIEND
Funfair Chunky Fisherman Sandals
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IF YOU’RE AN ELEVATED FISHERMAN
Lizzie Platform Fisherman Sandal
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IF YOU’RE A SQUARE-TOE lover
Heeled Leather Fisherman Sandals
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IF CLOGS ARE YOUR STYLE
The Fisherman Sandal Clog
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IF YOU HAVE HAPPY FEET
Caramel Palm Tree Sandal
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IF SLIP-ONS ARE YOUR STYLE
Figured Leather Fisherman Flat Mules
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IF BLACK IS YOUR UNIFORM
Fisherman Sandals
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IF YOU NEED AN EVERYDAY SHOE
Ringkøbing
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IF SUEDE IS YOUR FAVE
Suede Fisherman Sandals
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IF YOU’RE A CLASSIC GAL
The Boardwalk Fisherman Slide Sandal
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These fab finds were maybe not made for fishing—rather for strutting, closing deals, hitting the pavement, and whatever else you wanna do, TBH!
IF CHUNKY SOLES ARE YOUR FRIEND
Funfair Chunky Fisherman Sandals
- Pull tab for easy entry
- True to size
- Comfy, chunky sole
Calling all chunky-sole enthusiasts: You’ll easily fall in love with these trendy, sage, croc sandals! Reviewers rave about their comfy and pillow-like fit. They’ll look great with light-washed denim, too.
Review: LOVE THESE! Exactly as shown in the photo. Such a lovely colour. Can’t wait to wear them.
IF YOU’RE AN ELEVATED FISHERMAN
Lizzie Platform Fisherman Sandal
- Walkable Platform
- Authentic Leather
- Fits snug at first, loosens as broken in
Platform babes, these are for you. This elevated look is handcrafted with bone embossed croc and features a padded footbed. Our editor chat room literally swooned over these pretty babies, so you may not be able to resist!
PS: You may also like this brand’s more feminine fisherman sandal or their classic pair that comes in a black-studded version and a fabulous purple suede.
IF YOU’RE A SQUARE-TOE lover
Heeled Leather Fisherman Sandals
- flexible latex foam insole
- authentic leather
I’m loving this heeled take on the classic style! And it’s such a gorge color. I can see this squared-toe moment making its way into my closet pretty soon.
IF CLOGS ARE YOUR STYLE
The Fisherman Sandal Clog
- RESPONSIBLE LEATHER
- SLINGBACK
Clogs + the classic fisherman = a gorge combo! They’re the perf transitional shoe for when you’re clomping about and conquering the world. And the padding will make you feel like you’re walking on clouds!
IF YOU HAVE HAPPY FEET
Caramel Palm Tree Sandal
- One purchase = One tree planted
- 100% vegan
Hey look: It’s a party for your feet! These sandals from cult-fave Brazilian brand FarmRIO have artisanal detailing and are made out of vegan leather. Pair these with just about any color in your closet or add to cart for your future travel lewks. (I can’t be the only one envisioning my next vacay, can I?!)
IF SLIP-ONS ARE YOUR STYLE
Figured Leather Fisherman Flat Mules
These slip-on options are ridiculously cushy and a great steal! Reviewers celebrate their great quality and say they look expensive in person.
Review: Really nice sandal to elevate a simple outfit. Plan to wear mine with denim cut offs and a white shirt.
IF BLACK IS YOUR UNIFORM
Fisherman Sandals
- UNISEX
- FITS TRUE TO SIZE
- vegetable-tanned full-grain leather
These rugged-but-luxe leather-sole bad boys are givin’ combat boot meets summertime freedom. Srsly, they’re exuding some serious boss energy. This pair is constructed from vegetable-tanned full-grain leather with pure brass studs for adjustable ankle fastening. Own the boardroom or the boardwalk with this powerfully fierce and modern take!
IF YOU NEED AN EVERYDAY SHOE
Ringkøbing
- UNISEX SIZING
- SO MANY COLORS!
- comfy, but needs arch support
You’re going to love everything about these sandals and you won’t have to break up with ’em during the fall or winter either. (Reviewers wear these with socks!) Duckfeet fans obsess about the fit, durability, functionality, fab colors, and comfort. Need I say more?
Review: I purchased these early so I could break them in before summer. They were immediately comfortable and I think I’ll be living in them when the weather warms up. They look wonderful on as the leather is gorgeous and I can tell how well made they are. This design is so classic and with the closed toe design I can wear them to work while keeping my feet cooler.
IF SUEDE IS YOUR FAVE
Suede Fisherman Sandals
- genuine suede
- amazing quality
- shipping may take forever
I’m always here for a good suede sandal! This soft and fashionable pair is carefully constructed and will make ya feel like you can walk for days.
Review: A great surprise that I forgot that I ordered! Now that they are here I can’t stop wearing them! They fit perfectly, are so comfortable, and the quality of the leather is great. I pair them with wool socks and shorts for a funky look or with cropped jeans and a sweater. I live in LA and don’t really like to wear open-toed shoes in the city, so these are perfect. I now want them in every color!
IF YOU’RE A CLASSIC GAL
The Boardwalk Fisherman Slide Sandal
Okay, these sandals are literally screaming boardwalk vibes, right? This chill (and budget-friendly) approach on the fisherman style also has a hint of padding, so you can wear just about anything with this and go everywhere in it. BRB, planning my beach day…
IF YOU NEED A BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Downtown Sandal
- a compliment magnet
- AFFORDABLE
- v uncomfy until you break in
- MAY NOT LAST LONG
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.
Review: I get so many compliments on these! These are the first pair of non flip flop sandals I’ve bought in years and they’re actually very comfortable. I usually don’t like straps around my ankles, but these are fine. I also love the little bit of lift they give me 🙂
IF LUXURY IS A LIFESTYLE
Rubber Cage Platform Sandals
- I MEAN, IT’S PRADA
- LEATHER SOLE
Ok, yes, these are a splurge, but come on! How cute? Here are the deets: refreshing color, a lugged platform sole, and caged straps with the beloved Prada signature logo smack-dab in the middle. According to the Prada girlies, you won’t regret this purchase!
Review: These are such a great shoe to take the trendy Prada winter boot and transform it into a sandal. The price point is excellent and a fraction of the price compared to most of the Prada shoes. I love the chunky soles and the sandals are very comfortable. I haven’t had a chance to wear them yet but plan on living in them all spring/summer long!
IF YOU MISS CHILDHOOD
Possession Glitter Jelly Fisherman Sandal
- SMELLS LIKE BUBBLEGUM
- DURABLE, FLEXIBLE & RECYCLABLE
You didn’t think we’d do a whole fisherman sandal round-up without the OG jellies, did ya?! Allow us to transport you back to childhood with these bubblegum-scented and glitter finish sandals. This sweet pair comes in silver, gold, pink, and blue!
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 fashion team is constantly curating the internet to bring you the chicest, trendiest options 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 pieces 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!
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