Sandals are the perfect pieces of footwear that will complement any summer outfit. Sandals used to be worn only in certain occasions to complement particular outfits. However, with today’s longer summers, sandals are slowly becoming the staple footwear, especially in warm countries.

A short history of sandals

Sandals are a type of footwear that has the foot exposed and is secured to the foot with straps and thongs passing over the instep and around the ankle. Sandals are often worn during the summers by both men and women and all year round in places with warmer climates.

The earliest sandals are known to have been discovered in the Fort Rock Cave in the US and they were dated to come from as early as 10,000 years ago. Other early forms of sandals were found in Spain and were dated to come from the 6th or 5th century B.C. Clear evidence of the use of sandals in ancient times can be found in the hieroglyphic images of ancient Egyptians in their temples and tombs.

The early sandals were made of rope, wood, or leather. Today’s sandals can now be made of canvas, rubber, and plastic aside from the traditional leather. Wooden sandals are also popular.

Difference between sandals and clogs

Clogs are often mistaken for sandals, although the two are actually very different. For one, sandals expose the toes and the majority of the foot, while clogs keep the toes covered. Clogs are often known to provide more support than sandals, which is the main reason why clogs come highly recommended by most feet specialists as useful for people with feet problems. Clogs made of high-tech, ultra lightweight plastic polymers are popular among health care professionals who spend a lot of time on their feet, particularly doctors, nurses, and cooking professionals. Sandals are usually worn for fashion and comfort because they are light and allow air to circulate around your feet. Clogs, on the other hand, are worn primarily for safety and comfort, since the closed toes protect you from toe stubs, spills, and stains.

How to choose sandals

Sandals are a fun and sexy addition to a summer outfit and a comfortable choice of footwear as well for men. When choosing sandals, look for one that offers a good fit, with a stable heel and insole because these offer the greatest support, and one that is made of good quality leather, canvas, fabric, or rope. Choose sandals that will complement your legs. Very small, narrow, or pointed sandals will make large feet appear bigger, so choose a design of sandals that will complement the size and shape of your feet.