15 Pairs of Fisherman Sandals That’ll Reel in Comfort and Compliments

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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, 15 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 2023:

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!

Zara Fisherman Sandals

Get a load of these suede beauts! I'm heart eyes over the color, the material, the crossed straps, and sling-back style.

Madewell The Dixson Fisherman Mule

These slip-on options are ridiculously cushy and a steal! Reviewers celebrate their great quality and say they look expensive in person.

Rave Review: "These are perfection. You can dress them up or wear with jeans. They are a good weight meaning they are not clunky to walk in….the heel gives a little bit of a height without making them uncomfortable. They feel sturdy. Love this butter color—so elegant! Also zero complaints on comfort. Love these!"

BP. Amaya Fisherman Platform Sandal

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.

Rave Review: "These shoes are not only comfortable—they're so fun! They're cute with my skirts and shorts, as well as with pants/jeans. I can dress them up or down. Very pleased. They fit well and are very well put together. I wear a 7.5 and ordered the correct size and they fit perfect. I'm SO ready for spring and summer, but they'll transition into fall, as well. I just hope I don't wear them out too soon."

Boden USA Traditional Fisherman Sandal

Nothing beats practicality! This pair is crafted from buttery-soft leather and topped with a silver metal buckle.

ASOS DESIGN Terra Fisherman Flatform Sandals

Flatform babes, these are for you. This elevated look consists of cork material and clear straps so you can have ease and versatility-YAY.

Melissa Possession Sandal

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. *gently wipes away tear*

Melisaa Megan Beige Jelly

Calling all chunky-sole enthusiasts: You'll easily fall in love with these beige cuties! They'll look great with light-washed denim.

Zara Leather Fisherman Sandals

Okay, these sandals are giving picnic vibes, right? This chill 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, working on my charcuterie board skills...

ASOS DESIGN Jukebox Leather Fisherman Espadrilles

Bedazzled fisherman espadrilles?! Yes, please! These gold-studded bb's are so chic.

Farm Rio Mango Trees Espadrille Platform Sandal

How fun is this pair from cult-fave Brazilian brand Farm Rio? I am loving the mango trees print! You'll def have to add to cart for your future travel lewks. (I can't be the only one envisioning my next vacay, can I?!)

Duckfeet Ringkøbing

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?

Rave 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 I can wear them to work while keeping my feet cooler."

Artell Shoes Store Suede Fisherman Sandals

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.

Rave 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!"

UNIONBAY Downtown Sandal

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.

Rave 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 :)"

SAJA Fisherman Sandals

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!

Prada Rubber Cage Platform Sandals

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!

Rave 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!"

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 digital fashion experts—which includes Fashion Features Director Rachel Torgerson and Fashion Editor Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien—have decades of combined 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—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest 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 products for all sizes. 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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