It might have started life as the footwear of peasants in the Basque region of Spain. But, these days, the espadrille delivers a hybrid summer shoe like none other. Part loafer, part sneaker and part sandal, the espadrille could be the perfect Venn diagram of men’s warm-weather footwear.
Unlike heavy leather shoes or sneakers, espadrilles are comfortable and lightweight. Crafted from breathable materials like canvas or linen, this shoe allows air to circulate your feet, keeping them cooler as the temperature rises. Additionally, espadrilles are an eco-friendly and sustainable choice as the materials used incorporate jute, hemp or cotton, all renewable resources.
This footwear is symbolised by its slip-on characteristic and soft construction sitting on a woven-look raffia sole. Nestling nicely within the smart casual ether, it enables men to nonchalantly vault between both dress codes.
What to wear with your espadrilles
The aesthetic we want to achieve when wearing our espadrilles is that laidback beach bar vibe. So, naturally, they work well with a pair of tailored shorts and a summer shirt of choice. We can always elevate slightly and take some inspiration from the continent by embracing pieces like slimline white jeans. They are ideal for British summer and can even absorb a turn-up to ankle length partnered with your espadrilles.
Other than that, the traditional chino can hit the sweet spot between smart and casual. Just remember, never wear socks with your espadrilles. It’s a faux pas I don’t think anyone can come back from.
1. Oliver Sweeney Rioja Navy
This might look like a humble piece of footwear. But, Oliver Sweeney has paid close attention to the details. Including materials like calf suede and crafted by an artisan factory, these are an elevated summer classic.
2. Ralph Lauren Cevio Washed Canvas Espadrille
Presented in a summer-ready beige, there is a hint of pattern on the inside. Ralph Lauren is well-know for its preppy aesthetic, and these espadrilles would partner nicely with chino shorts and an oxford button down.
3. Orlebar Brown Fleet Canvas Espadrille
Featuring the brand’s ‘O.B tape’ stripe on the heel, these espadrilles from Orlebar Brown are as versatile as they come. The navy colourway is ideal for lighter colour pairings, while the exposed stitiching adds welcome detail.
4. Toms Recycled Cotton Alpargata
Great for your feet and great for the planet. TOMS have manufactured their espadrilles using recycled cotton. The easy slip-on style delivers a minimalist look that will nicely finish any summer outfit.
5. M&S Canvas Slip-On Espadrilles
A wallet-friendly option for men that need a dependable pair of shoes for the next few months. Available in a range of colours, they include M&S’ Freshfeet™ technology that helps minimise those unwanted odours.
6. Mango Suede Espadrilles
Brining a fresh colourway, Mango have used 100% bovine leather for the uppers of these green espadrilles. So, if you want an option that isn’t the normal beige or navy, we can’t recommend these enough.
7. OAS Company Espadrilles
Don’t let the understated design of these espadrilles fool you. Crafted from the summer fabric of the gods ‘linen’, they have been handmade in Spain and are your new warm-weather staple.
8. Saint Laurent Logo-Embroidered Canvas Espadrilles
Designer branding might not be to everyone’s taste. Even without it this pair delivers everything a guy needs from his footwear in the summer. Breathability and comfort are at the forefront of this design, with the ‘Saint Laurent’ just the finishing stamp of approval.
9. Mulo Suede Loafers
Good things come to those who wait. Mulo espadrilles are crafted using 100 steps over a period of three days. We love the small details like the tabs on the heel that help to minimise the suede creasing as you put them on.
10. The Resort Co Espadrilles Belgian Loafer Style
This pair of espadrilles will be wasted on just your holiday. Bring them into your everyday summer wardrobe and put your most stylish foot forward.
11. Aurelien Light Blue Beachside Loafer
Billed as ‘not your average espadrille’, there is more than a touch of luxury about this pick. The uppers are made from a supple suede of French calfskin. While underfoot, the jute soles from Portugal have durable rubber bases. If you have the budget, these are wel worth the money.
12. Scarosso Pablo Grey Espadrille
Look no further than the Italian brand, Scarosso for some stunning espadrilles this summer. Handmade in grey suede, they are the perfect partner to a pair of linen trousers and a cold beer.
13. Castaner Sand Camping Shoe
Stitched by hand, these cotton espadrilles have been completed with a touch of leather on the inside. The simple lines and square toe make these an instant classic.
14. Officine Creative Collapsible-Heel Suede Espadrilles
Sitting on top of rubber soles for added grip. Officine Creative have incorporated a traditional jute design with suede uppers. Everything is handmade in the label’s Italian studio using time-honored techniques. They are up there as the pinnacle of men’s espadrilles.
15. Massimo Dutti Moc Toe Split Espadrille
Are they a loafer, are they an espadrille? Does it matter when they look this good. The contemporary design of these Massimo Dutti shoes showcases footwear that would as perfect with tailored trousers as it would with shorts.
