Mandals Sandals 2015: 5 Styles Of Men's Summer Shoes

Marc Jacobs just gave guys the OK to wear flip-flops and not everyone is happy about it. However, Jacobs’ flip-flop line is just the latest designer to bring back open toes, as designers have skewed toward Tevas and Birkenstocks in recent collections.

While the debate of open-toed men's shoes (aka the mandal) is ongoing, this seems like a good time to review some summertime, male footwear and discuss its natural habitat. Beware guys, if you're going to try any of these styles, it might be ideal to take care of your feet, first.

The Flip-Flop (AKA Thongs)

The classic flip-flop can be located in stores such as Havaianas, Old Navy and the aptly named, Flip Flop Shop. Generally speaking, flip-flops work best at the beach, in the yard or other places that are informal and where there is no risk of sharp objects.

Teva

According to the Teva website, such mandals will make it possible to look like it’s 1995 and also jump over fireworks without bodily harm. Teva are still probably best left for the beach or nature trail, but could work to run errands and the like.

Birkenstocks

One of the most stigmatized pieces of summer footwear around, with their boxy look and sensible sole, Birkenstocks are often the butt of jokes. However, this summer they’ve become quite the fashionable shoe, as anyone who has been on the New York subway recently can attest. Since these are a bit sturdier, they might be the best bet for urban living.

Shower Slides

These come in a variety of shapes and sizes from the likes of Nike and Adidas and can often been seen on teens and 20-somethings with a pair of socks. Best bet is that if you’re not of that demographic -- or don’t understand why someone would wear socks with sandals -- stay away from these shoes.

Clogs

While not exactly a mandal, Crocs and other clog-like shoes are still available and show up in the summer. However, they are generally found in kitchens, hospitals and other places in need of nonslip and easy-clean footwear. Same rules apply: Unless you're wearing them for work-related reasons (or are Mario Batali), stay away.