<!–
Slide Through
Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.
When it comes to summer footwear, lightweight and breathable is the key. There’s no shortage of feathery light canvas sneakers to choose from. But, we also love the simplicity of a pair of slides. They’re backless like mules but open-toe like flip-flops. Slides usually have one or two straps that span across the toes and forefoot, though there are some unique variations. The style dates back to Ancient Greece and Egypt, when they were made from papyrus, twigs and various types of leaves. Slides evolved as shoemakers eventually started making them from stronger materials like leather and the style became popular in women’s fashion after WWII.
The casual slides as many know them today first appeared in 1960s when Birkenstock introduced its Madrid shoe and Adidas introduced its famous Adilette slide, a waterproof shoe designed for a German football team to use in the locker room. The slide has become more popular in recently in athleisure, streetwear and gorpcore, often with socks to match. And while you could slip into a pair poolside, the summery shoe can go anywhere. Nearly every brand has riffed on the style, applying chunky soles, futuristic materials and high-end leathers into the style. Regardless of the slide you’re going for, it’s a perfect sandal to get into for summer. Here are some picks to choose from.
Classic Slide by Crocs $30 $28
Benassi JDI by Nike $29
Adilette Comfort Slides by Adidas $35 $32
Basecamp Slide by The North Face $35
Barbados by Birkenstock $40
Hydro Slide by Merrell $40
Logo Slides by Hunter Boots $45
OOah Slide Sandal by OOFOS $50
Lowdown Slide by Chaco $80
Agustin Flat Sandals by Shoe the Bear $90
Techloom Slides by Athletic Propulsion Labs $100
Padri by Suicoke $105
Uneek II Slide by Keen x Engineered Garments $105
Zurich by Birkenstock $135
Apteros Leather Slides by Ancient Greek Sandals $150
Woven Crossover Strap Sandal by Guanabana $158
Zuma by Malibu x Jungmaven $175
Logo Slide by Heron Preston $209
Intrecciato Pool Slides by Bottega Veneta $640
<!–
–>