Huarache Sandals Are the Coolest Dress Shoes to Wear This Summer

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HUARACHE SANDALS are so intertwined with Southern California beach culture that the Beach Boys referenced them in Surfin' USA. Surf culture adopted the woven slip-on shoes long ago for its comfort, ease, and artistic vibe. However, huarache sandals have much deeper roots within the indigenous culture of Mexico. They originated as sturdy, durable, and—above all—breathable shoes that could handle the sweltering tropical terrain. Today, huarache sandals are a menswear essential because you get an all leather shoe with exceptional comfort and breathability. That makes it a much cooler dress shoe than any loafer as the days just keep getting hotter.

Some of the best huaraches in the world are handcrafted in Mexico, using techniques that have been passed down for generations. Basket woven leather strips, often arranged in distinctive cultural patterns, form the entire upper, which is then either sewn or nailed to a leather footbed. Traditionally, huarache sandals have a leather or rubber sole. However, there are many modern takes available that incorporate new materials and features. Simply put, huarache sandals will keep your feet stylish and comfortable all summer long.

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Cancun

For a long time, getting an authentic pair of huarache sandals required a trip to Mexico. Then Chamula, along with a few other menswear brands, became readily available in the states. The Cancun is handmade in a traditional fashion using top quality leather, stitching, and rubber. A high tongue and full back really complete the loafer-esqe look.

Of all the huaraches we tried, these struck the best balance between formal and everyday comfort. They were a refreshing alternative with a summer suit and quickly became our go-to footwear. We could spend literally all summer in these shoes, no matter if it's in the city, the beach, or on vacation.

Latigo

Traditonal huarache designs use a flat leather insole and sometimes a rubber sole. If you plan on spending a ton of time on your feet, you could use a little more support. Which is why Malibu's thick crepe gum sole comes in handy. It absorbs your weight and supports your foot. The vegan leather suede upper is also much softer than leather.

As city dwellers, we appreciated the fully closed off design of the Latigo because you never know what you're going to step in. The drawstring closure was also much appreciated when we had to run to catch a subway car.

Men's City Slipper

A mule style huarache sandal is more casual but still dressy. All huaraches are technically slip on shoes, but removing the back makes the City Slipper even closer to sandals. If you're looking for a beach or vacation shoe, then look no further. Bonus points for the non-slip crepe sole.

We found these to be the perfect sandal for transitioning from loafing around the apartment to a casual night out. For anyone who has gotten in the habit of going out in moccasins or slides, the City Slipper is a much more respectable improvement.

Huarache Sandal

If there is a single huarache sandal that has captured the attention of menswear, it is Nisolo. The Mexican shoe makers have become synonymous with the country's native style of footwear. One look at the craftsmanship and artistry involved in a single pair, and there is no surprise. Nisolo makes the Huarache Sandal in many colors but, the black leather with a tan sole is our personal favorite.

When we started testing huarches, we had high hopes for Nisolo based on reputation and they did not disappoint. They check every box and is definitely the dressiest sandal on this list.

Barclay

There is no better bang for your buck in the world of huaraches than Sunsteps. You get an essential huarache design in full leather for about a third of the price of most brands. There is a trade off in leather quality and the rubber sole is pretty light, but still a solid bargain.

The Barclay turned out to be a solid option if you're looking for a pair of summer sandals on a budget. Comfort and breathability in a solid leather shoe is the goal and Sunsteps gets you there.

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Alejandro Huarache Sandal

Yuketen handcrafts all their products in Mexico with exceptional artistry and attention to detail. The leather weaving incorporated in the Alejandro is second to none. What really sets this huarache apart though, is the boot sole with a Goodyear welt. Which means you can get them resoled down the road.

There wasn't much that we didn't think looked good with these sandals. but the Alejandro looks especially good with jeans. If you're a boot guy, then these are the perfect sandals to give your feet a respite in the summer heat.

More Huarache Sandals We Loved

Authentic Mexican Huarache Sandal

Indigenous cultural designs are often incorporated into the weaving of huarache sandals. Two or more leather colors are used to create beautiful geometric patterns. This example from The Western Shop features a relatively simple design that provides some texture without taking over your fit. We liked them as a party shoe and a bit of a statement piece.

Mens huarache sandal Oochel Mahogany

Xan-Kla is a made-to-order cobbler which means you get to customize your huarache sandals when you buy them. There are some really ornate designs available. Everything is hand made in Mexico, then shipped directly to you.

Me Huarache

"Huarache inspired" is a more accurate description here but these sandals from Sanuk are close enough for us. With a woven side seam and 100% leather upper, they provide a dressier look then most Sanuks without sacrificing the brand's signature comfort.

UNEEK Canvas Sandal

Keen built a huarache entirely out of modern materials and you have to appreciate the innovation on a classic design. A lightweight rubber sole and a canvas and elastic upper are built for intense outdoors excursions, but they work just as well for everyday wear.

Tarifa

Let's call these huarache-inspired slides. A woven leather upper is attached to a solid leather footbed, giving you that essential huarache look. With some linen pants, no one will know the difference.

Mexican Huraches Sandal

Dona Michi is as authentic as they come, making every huarache out of 100% top quality leather. All the work is hand done in Mexico and features traditional native designs. Theres no better way to get the "I bought these on vacation" look from the comfort of your own home.

Sam

Mephisto took the huarache and modernized them for pure comfort. A belt latch, soft foam footbed, and grippy rubber sole aren't exactly authentic, but they sure do feel nice on your feet.

Woven Sandals

Asos offers a bargain take on classic huarache sandals. They come soft and ready to wear out of the box. For a last minute vacation shoe, this is a solid choice.

How Do You Wear Huarache Sandals?

You can sub out your loafers, boat shoes, sandals, or even most leather sneakers for a pair of huarache sandals. The real charm is that huaraches substitute those styles equally well. Lightweight summer gear like linen pants or shorts go naturally, but they provide an interesting alternative for jeans and chinos. If you get a traditional pair in solid brown or black, then feel free to wear them with a suit to any warm weather formal events (like summer weddings!).

What is the Best Material for Huarache Sandals?

Traditionally, all huaraches are made of leather, often with a rubber sole. If you purchase from any of the brands hand crafting in Mexico, that is pretty much all you will find. A 100% leather upper is a major part of the style appeal, allowing you to replace loafers and leather dress shoes. There are alternatives available though. Malibu uses a vegan leather alternative and crepe sole while Keen builds their modernized huarache out of canvas and elastic.

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