My Most Comfortable Walking Sandal Looks as Good on the Dock as It Does at Dinner

Despite a rather limited history with actual fishing – a handful of excursions in a lifetime, the most recent being a little over a year ago on New Zealand’s majestic Lake Taupo – I’ve found myself unexpectedly embodying the aesthetic of a seasoned angler, at least from the ankles down. On that memorable trip to Taupo, a renowned trout fishing haven nestled in the heart of the North Island’s volcanic plateau, I managed to hook and release a trout or two. It was a picturesque experience, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Otago region, famous for its dramatic mountains and pristine waters. The practice of catch and release, widely encouraged on Lake Taupo to preserve its thriving rainbow and brown trout populations, underscored the conservation-minded approach to angling that defines such pristine environments. Yet, even after that brief foray into the piscatorial world, it remains unequivocally clear: I am no fisherman.

And yet, my footwear tells a different story. The fisherman sandal, a style traditionally associated with practicality and the rugged demands of life at sea or by the river, has unequivocally become my go-to summer shoe. This isn’t a solitary preference; it’s a trend that has swept through urban landscapes, transforming a utilitarian item into a surprisingly chic and functional fashion statement. My personal docks are not made of weathered timber leading to open waters, but rather the bustling, often unpredictable streets of New York City. Here, the semi-closed toe design of these sandals offers a surprisingly crucial layer of protection, preventing unexpected encounters with the city’s infamous "random fluids" and safeguarding against the inevitable stubbed toes on the relentless, ascending steps of the subway system. This blend of security and breathability makes them an indispensable ally against the trials of urban summer navigation.

The resurgence of the fisherman sandal can be attributed to a confluence of contemporary fashion trends. In an era where comfort and practicality are increasingly prioritized alongside style, and where gender-neutral fashion is gaining significant traction, the fisherman sandal offers a compelling proposition. Its robust yet open design bridges the gap between a fully enclosed shoe and a minimalist sandal, providing structure and protection without sacrificing airflow. This aesthetic aligns perfectly with the "utility-wear" trend, a movement that champions clothing and accessories designed for function but recontextualized for everyday fashion. Designers and high-street brands alike have embraced this silhouette, elevating it from a niche, practical item to a mainstream summer essential. Its historical roots as working footwear, providing grip and protection for fishermen while allowing water drainage, now lend an air of authentic heritage to its modern incarnation, appealing to consumers looking for items with both character and demonstrable utility.

At the heart of my summer footwear rotation is the Sabah Porto fisherman sandal, a model that perfectly encapsulates the blend of tradition and modern comfort. Unlike many conventional summer sandals that offer minimal foot coverage, the fisherman sandal distinguishes itself with its interwoven strips of leather that securely encase the front of the foot. This design not only provides a sense of security against the urban elements I described but also ensures the foot remains protected from minor impacts. The strategic gaps in the weave allow for ample breathability, a critical feature during sweltering city summers, and facilitate drainage – whether from an unexpected downpour or a refreshing splash at the beach. While some fisherman sandals feature a fully closed heel, the Sabah Porto opts for a sophisticated strap, allowing the heel to "say hello," adding to its airy feel without compromising stability.

What truly sets the Sabah Porto apart, and why it has earned such a favored spot in my collection, is its exceptional craftsmanship and the quality of its materials. Sabah, a brand celebrated for its artisanal approach to footwear, hails from New York City itself, with roots in Turkish shoemaking traditions. Their philosophy centers on creating handcrafted shoes that blend comfort, durability, and a distinct, travel-inspired aesthetic. The Porto, priced at $275, reflects this commitment to quality, utilizing a fine and supple leather that is remarkably thin and soft. This characteristic gives the sandal a glove-like, almost "sock-like" feel on the foot, a far cry from the stiff, unforgiving leather often found in more mass-produced footwear.

Breaking in new leather shoes can often be a painful ordeal, but with the Sabah Porto, the process was surprisingly swift and manageable. Over the first two days, I experienced a couple of minor blisters, a common rite of passage with any new leather shoe. However, by strategically wearing a thin sock barrier—a simple yet effective hack for minimizing friction during the initial wear period—the discomfort was significantly reduced. By the third day, the supple leather had beautifully molded to the unique contours of my feet, transforming the sandals into an extension of myself. This rapid adaptation speaks volumes about the quality of the leather and the expert construction, which prioritizes a personalized fit.

It’s important to note, however, that the Sabah Porto is a flat shoe, meaning it offers minimal arch support. For individuals planning extensive walking or those requiring significant orthotic support, this might be a consideration. While its comfort for daily wear and moderate walking is undeniable, seasoned travelers or those with specific foot health needs might explore alternatives with more integrated anatomical support. Foot health experts often recommend footwear with adequate arch support for prolonged periods of standing or walking to prevent strain and promote proper alignment. However, for casual wear, urban commuting, and stylish summer outings, the Porto’s flat profile contributes to its sleek aesthetic and effortless wearability. The personalized molding of the leather, once broken in, does provide a custom cradle for the foot, enhancing comfort in its own unique way, even without aggressive arch support.

My journey to discovering the Sabah Porto was rather serendipitous, marked by a detour from an earlier travel aspiration. Earlier this year, I embarked on a river cruise through Colombia, traversing the waters from the vibrant Caribbean port city of Cartagena to the lively Barranquilla. Before the trip, I had envisioned acquiring a pair of authentic, locally made fisherman sandals as a souvenir, perhaps picking them up in a bustling market at the start of my downstream adventure. I had initially thought that Bogotá, the country’s capital and a hub for diverse artisanal crafts and modern boutiques, would be the ideal place for such a find.

However, the regions I was actually traversing, particularly along the coast, were more renowned for their intricate palm weaving and other traditional crafts. I returned home with an array of beautifully crafted bags, earrings, and various tchotchkes, each a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the Colombian Caribbean. It was during my planning stages for this trip that Katalina Mayorga, the founder of El Camino Travel, a boutique travel company specializing in immersive and authentic Colombian experiences, offered invaluable guidance. Known for her deep local connections and curated recommendations, Mayorga redirected my footwear quest. Instead of chasing a local artisan sandal, she suggested investing in the Sabahs, a recommendation for which I am now profoundly grateful. Her expertise, rooted in a commitment to quality and a keen eye for items that genuinely enhance the travel experience, led me to a pair of sandals that have proven to be a true summer staple, outperforming any fleeting souvenir. El Camino Travel’s philosophy focuses on providing discerning travelers with access to hidden gems and trusted local insights, making Mayorga’s endorsement of Sabah particularly significant, hinting at the brand’s reputation for travel-friendly durability and style.

The versatility of the Sabah Porto is truly remarkable. It has become my default footwear for almost every sunny day of the summer, and even now, as I write this amidst a gentle rain, they remain comfortably on my feet. On weekends and during evening outings, I wear them barefoot, enjoying the direct contact with the soft leather. For work, however, I often pair them with socks, transforming their aesthetic. White, brown, or green socks provide a striking contrast, adding a playful element to the outfit, while a matching black sock can subtly shift the look, blurring the lines into "sock boot" territory for a more avant-garde feel.

Beyond casual wear, these sandals possess an unexpected ability to be dressed up. They can peek out from beneath well-tailored Oxfords or linen slacks, adding a touch of relaxed sophistication to a more formal ensemble. They’ve also proven their mettle on the crowded sands of Rockaway Beach, New York City’s vibrant surf haven. It was there, amidst the eclectic mix of beachgoers and surf culture, that the Sabah Porto garnered the most unsolicited compliments. One memorable instance involved a stranger literally chasing me down to inquire about the brand. "I thought so," he remarked knowingly when I confirmed they were from Sabah, a testament to the brand’s growing recognition and desirability among those with a discerning eye for quality and style. This incident perfectly encapsulates the sandal’s unexpected journey from a utilitarian piece of fishing gear to a highly coveted fashion item, bridging the gap between rugged practicality and undeniable chic. The quiet confidence in his "That’s right" echoed my own satisfaction with a purchase that seamlessly blends comfort, protection, and an undeniable sense of style, making it the quintessential summer companion for any terrain, urban or coastal.