The fisherman sandal has ancient origins with a modern appeal. Marked by a strappy, caged toe box and a secure ankle strap, this style was initially worn by mariners who needed quick-draining footwear while on deck.
Today, our favorites are reimagined with sleek leathers, bold colors, and supportive features like cushioned insoles and contoured footbeds. Plus, their ventilated toe box is perfect for those who don't like wearing open-toed shoes, but still want their feet to breathe.
Below are a dozen comfortable pairs of fisherman sandals curated by our style editors, each with their own unique twist that let you stroll in closed-toe comfort.
Bared Footwear Cettia Sandals
I've always had a bit of a love-hate relationship with sandals. While I can't deny their stylish appeal, many of the pairs I've owned lack comfort and cannot compare to even mildly supportive sneakers. That's why I was intrigued by Bared Footwear's fisherman sandals crafted with a biomechanical footbed, which the brand claims offers unparalleled comfort.
Last summer I tested its Honeyguides — which have since been phased out in favor of the Cettias— and after wearing them on a hectic day of running errands, I can confirm: They're the most comfortable sandals I've ever worn. Exceptional details include soft, cushy leather and a roomy square toe area, despite the shoe's elongated, pointed-toe look. The sandals' slightly elevated heels felt more supportive and less taxing than a fully flat shoe.
It's a tricky balance for a shoe to strike between wearability and aesthetics, but these versatile fisherman sandals nailed it. The thin leather straps, gold hardware, and sleek pointed toe added up to an elevated sandal that paired perfectly with a floral summer dress. Still, they were easily dressed down with stretchy pants and a casual tee. They're true to size and also come in a metallic gold colorway, which I'm seriously considering purchasing as a dance-floor-friendly alternative for a wedding guest sandal.
Learn about another pair of Bared Footwear sandals that we loved in our guide to the best walking sandals for women.
Naturalizer Cleo Flat Sandals
Naturalizer earned the top spot in our guide to the most comfortable heels, so we've learned to trust its affordable leather dress shoes. Its Cleo Flat Sandals have just a half-inch heel to create an elongating effect, which tapers into a square toe cage. They're sleek enough to wear to the office, and the contoured, padded footbed means they'll be comfortable during your commute.
FitFlop GEN-FF Leather Fisherman Sandals
The Gen-FFs are the best fisherman sandal for wide feet you're likely to find anywhere. We've tested FitFlop's ballet flats, clogs, and flip-flops, and they're always generously sized in the toe box.
Fisherman sandals are usually flat, which can be hard on your joints if you're walking all day. Instead,FitFlop's thickly cushioned "Microwobbleboard" midsoles lift your feet out of the flat position so even high arches feel supported.
Margaux The Calypso Fisherman
Margaux's take on the fisherman sandal has an interwoven toe cage, which gives them a unique and sophisticated twist. We've commended the brand for years on its wide-fit offerings, though the length of the footbed usually runs small. Fortunately, these leather sandals come in half sizes in case you measure somewhere between.
They're an investment pair for sure, but the handmade Spanish craftsmanship and 5 millimeter padded insoles help justify the price. You can wear these on dressy summer occasions when both style and comfort are equally important.
Quince Italian Leather Lug Sole Fisherman Sandal
Direct-to-consumer brand Quince charges an average of 50-80% off traditional retail prices because it doesn't have to pay overhead costs. These reasonably priced 100% cow leather lug sole fisherman sandals are an excellent example of a wardrobe staple at a fraction of the expected price tag. The one-and-a-half-inch chunky platform has an EVA outsole for added cushioning.
Read more in our full Quince review.
Rothy's Fisherman Sandal
Of all the Rothy's sandals we've tested, most tend to run large but are all amazingly flexible and lightweight. As long as you can secure the right fit, these are the perfect fisherman sandals to throw in your beach bag or pack in a crammed suitcase. This knit mesh pair is even machine washable.
Camper Dana Sandals
This casual shoe features a supremely comfortable OrthoLite footbed that is both breathable and moisture-wicking. The thick-strap, box-toe design is available in black or white calfskin leather or tan nubuck. It's made to last, and the brand offers a two-year guarantee against any manufacturing defects.
Learn about another pair of Camper shoes we love in our guide to the best loafers for women.
Madewell The Milano Fisherman Sandal
The Milano is a dainty sandal fit for travel. Its flat, padded sole is comfy for walking even on European cobblestone streets, and its LGW-certified leather straps are delicate and stylish. The versatile cage-toe shoe pairs well with both casual and dressier outfits, making it a versatile addition to a summer travel capsule wardrobe.
G.H. Bass Fisherman Sandals
This is the most classic iteration of a fisherman sandal. They're fitted with an adjustable ankle strap, padded footbed, and 100% leather upper. G.H. Bass may be best known for its iconic Weejun loafers, but in the heat of summer, you're better off opting for this grandpa-inspired silhouette.
Melissa Possession
The '80s jelly shoe is a footwear throwback we're here for. With this design, Melissa is presents the nostalgic style in tons of clear and matte colorways. These rubber sandals are conveniently waterproof, so if you're headed to any rocky coastlines this summer, try wearing them as an alternative to mesh water shoes.
Fredo Salvador Sera Fisherman Sandal
These Franco Sarto Sera fisherman sandals are handmade in Spain with studded straps that manage to be both unique and neutral. With more wear, the calf leather and silver plated hardware will age together in flattering contrast.
Sorel ONA Streetworks Fisherman Mid Sandal
Designed for comfort but not lacking in style, this contemporary fisherman sandal features a cushioned two-inch footbed and a full-grain leather upper. The rubber lug sole has all the grip you'd expect from a pair of Sorel performance shoes. It'll come in handy during summer adventures when navigating uneven terrain like rocky shorelines. Meanwhile, the croc embossed, thick, adjustable straps come in four hues including a vibrant, sunny yellow.
See another pair of Sorel sandals we tested in our guide to the best walking sandals for women.
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