Best Black Sandals for Men and Women: Top Affordable Picks for Summer

Last Updated on April 25, 2025 by Andy Walker

Black sandals are more than a seasonal staple—they’re a reliable, go-anywhere footwear option that won’t show dirt, wear easily, or clash with your outfit. Whether you’re walking city streets, heading to the gym, or packing light for a summer getaway, black sandals offer unbeatable versatility and practicality. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best black sandals for men and women that balance comfort, durability, and timeless style— most under $60 and available online. We have also added two super lux (and expensive) sandals, just for fun.

Prefer white sandals? Click here.

Reviews: Best Black Sandals for Women

Here are our reviews of the best black sandals for women.

Teva Women’s Original Universal Sandal

The Teva Original Universal is a cult-favorite sandal designed for active women who value both comfort and performance. Built with water-ready polyester webbing, this sandal dries quickly and holds up against the elements, whether you’re at the lake or walking through city streets. The universal strapping system is easily adjustable and works for a wide range of foot shapes, while the EVA foam midsole delivers soft cushioning with every step. The durable rubber outsole gives excellent traction on various terrains, making it ideal for travel, casual hikes, or long days on your feet. Despite its sporty DNA, the simple black colorway makes it versatile enough to wear with shorts, joggers, or casual skirts. It’s especially popular with minimalists and adventurers who want one sandal that does it all. If you’re after a reliable summer sandal that balances rugged functionality with low-profile design, the Teva Original Universal hits the mark.

Pros: Secure fit, great grip, water-ready, durable
Cons: Sporty look may not work for formal events

Reef Cushion Breeze Flip-Flop

The Reef Cushion Breeze is an elevated flip-flop that delivers more comfort than you’d expect from a minimalist sandal. Unlike standard flat flip-flops, this one features a cushioned EVA foam footbed with anatomical arch support—making it ideal for those who want a casual shoe they can walk in without discomfort. The soft, woven straps are gentle on the skin and designed not to cause irritation or chafing. Its lightweight, flexible rubber outsole provides just enough traction for everyday activities like grocery runs, beach strolls, or travel days. It’s vegan-friendly and packs down small, making it perfect for vacationers looking for stylish but functional footwear. If you want the ease of a flip-flop without sacrificing comfort, the Reef Cushion Breeze is one of the best budget-friendly options.

Pros: Soft, lightweight, affordable, travel-friendly
Cons: Lacks protection for rough terrain

Reviews: Best Black Sandals for Men

Here are the best black sandals for men with our reviews.

Adidas Adilette Shower Slide

The Adidas Adilette Shower Slide is a classic for a reason—it’s sleek, durable, and comfortable straight out of the box. Featuring Adidas’ signature Cloudfoam footbed, it delivers plush, responsive cushioning that feels great after a workout or on a lazy weekend. The synthetic single-band upper is smooth and dries quickly, making this slide a perfect companion for post-shower wear, pool visits, or casual summer outings. The bold Adidas logo gives it a sporty flair, but the all-black version offers a more understated look if you prefer subtle branding. While it’s not built for long-distance walks or rough terrain, it excels in comfort and convenience. Slip it on for errands, lounge days, or post-gym recovery and enjoy a hassle-free fit that molds gently to your foot.

Pros: Easy on/off, fast-drying, excellent cushioning, versatile
Cons: Not ideal for all-day walking or support-intensive needs

Saint Laurent Men’s Black Leather Sandal With Silver Studs

For men seeking a high-end designer sandal, the Saint Laurent Men’s Black Leather Sandal with Silver Studs offers a blend of luxury and edgy style. Crafted from 100% leather with a rubber sole, this sandal features silver stud detailing that adds a distinctive touch to its sleek design. Made in Italy, it comes with the original YSL box, tags, and authenticity card, ensuring its premium quality. Ideal for upscale casual outings, this sandal combines fashion-forward aesthetics with the comfort expected from a luxury brand. While it carries a higher price point, its unique design and craftsmanship make it a standout choice for those looking to make a statement.

Pros: High-quality materials, distinctive design, luxury brand prestige
Cons: Premium price (+$300), limited availability

Best Black Sandals for Everyone

Birkenstock Arizona EVA Sandal

The Birkenstock Arizona EVA is a lightweight, waterproof reinterpretation of the classic cork Arizona—perfect for wet summer conditions, camping trips, and anyone who wants that signature Birkenstock support at a lower cost. Made entirely from single-piece EVA material, these sandals are ultra-flexible, shock-absorbing, and odor-resistant. The two-strap design includes adjustable buckles for a secure fit, while the contoured footbed mimics the original orthopedic shape, offering arch support and heel stability. They’re particularly useful in beach, pool, or spa environments thanks to their fast-drying construction. Despite the all-synthetic build, they don’t feel cheap—just sleek and practical. While they may not provide the same breathability as the original cork model, they’re a fantastic pick for travelers, students, and people who want durable summer footwear with style credibility.

Pros: Water-friendly, cushioned, unisex design
Cons: May run large—check sizing before purchase

Crocs Classic Clog

The Crocs Classic Clog is a go-to for anyone needing versatile, ultra-comfortable footwear that can handle anything from yardwork to travel. Made from Croslite foam, this clog is lightweight, water-resistant, and incredibly easy to clean—just rinse and wipe dry. It features a wide toe box and built-in ventilation holes that improve airflow, keeping your feet cool during long summer days. A pivoting heel strap offers added security when you need it, or flips up for a relaxed slide-style fit. These clogs are especially great for people with wide feet, those who stand for long hours, or anyone looking for a no-fuss sandal that doesn’t skimp on support. While they may not be runway-ready, their chunkier design is now embraced as part of the ‘ugly-chic’ aesthetic and functional fashion trends. Whether you’re gardening, beachcombing, or running errands, Crocs deliver unmatched comfort and practicality.

Pros: Easy to clean, breathable, durable, lightweight
Cons: Chunky appearance may not appeal to all

When Black Sandals Are the Better Choice

Still deciding between white and black? Black is likely the better option if:

• You spend time walking in grass, gravel, or dusty trails
• You want something low-maintenance and less likely to stain
• You need sandals that pair well with athleticwear or streetwear
• You’re building a minimalist or travel-friendly wardrobe

Why Choose Black Sandals for Summer

Black sandals are ideal for people who want footwear that lasts longer and looks clean even after repeat use. They’re also perfect for capsule wardrobes and outfits that favor darker tones or bold contrast. Where white sandals lean beachy and bright, black sandals are built for daily wear, workouts, or urban exploring.

Advantages of black sandals:

• Don’t show dust, grass stains, or watermarks easily
• Transition smoothly from casual daywear to nighttime outfits
• Pair effortlessly with monochrome, bold colors, or athletic styles

Styling Tips: Black Sandals for Every Outfit

Unlike white sandals, black sandals offer subtlety and strength. Try these pairings:

• Men: Go monochrome with black joggers or shorts + black slides or clogs
• Women: Black sandals + denim shorts + fitted tank = go-anywhere summer look
• All: Use black sandals as a base for bold prints or minimal outfits

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Sandals For Summer