The recent crunchy outdoor revival has sparked countless unforeseen comebacks for heritage brands that had never before found themselves on the cutting edge of style. Yet, few reintroductions have been more surprising than that of Teva, the Velcrofied sandal company whose open-toed designs are so tied to the outdoor sporting world, that they might as well toss in a box of granola with each pair. And yet, for all the hippie-centric jokes that Teva’s might inspire, the nearly three-decade-old company has done a remarkable job as of late in transforming their image from hiker to hashtag menswear.
To chart the resurgence of Teva, we have to start back in ’84, when a Grand Canyon River Guide was inspired by the lack of “sporting sandals” to invent a pair of his own. Dubbed “Teva,” which is Hebrew for nature, these hook and loop sandals became an integral part of the eighties outdoor scene. When that style was rediscovered years later, first by Daikanyama-dwelling Japanese mountaineering aficionados, and subsequently by the menswear obsessed here in America, Teva’s resurfaced not only on the trails, but in the city as well. Now, I’m not so sure I’d recommend parading around the urban muck in a pair of open toed sandals, but Teva does prove that when it comes to informal (and we mean really, really informal) footwear, all you really need is a sole and some straps. –JG
Fairfield County, Dudes have never stopped
wearing them. I have never but I like the colors. A lot. Maybe.
Please don’t let this become a thing.
I prefer Luna Sandals (http://lunasandals.com) myself. Super comfortable, made in Seattle. Mexican huarache design. Well worth the cost.
Tevas are great, but Hari Maris are where it’s at when it comes to open toed soles with soul // http://www.HariMari.com
Just in time for winter.
Birkenstocks & Tevas = Never. Not ever.
As a college student enrolled in a fashion program, I definitely see these being rocked around campus. Surprisingly though, I see it more on girls wearing menswear than I do on guys. Also I’d be more inclined to try Birkenstocks.
when i see these open-toed sandals, i want to barf every time
Everyone wears Chacos out here Montana. Less hippie, more fly fishing guide/kayaker.
Girly shoes.
I never want to see a man’s toes
Jesus wore um
I see tons of Birkenstocks around the West Coast creative world but literally never, ever Tevas.
fuck this.
I hope these will magically turn me into a little boy again! colors are sharp, nice pattern web too.
I walk 40-50 miles a week on concrete and IME only Birkenstocks allow me to do so with no fatigue or soreness. These are Boston clogs, so they offer some toe protection (and discretion). Personally, I like their utilitarian aesthetic — but I wouldn’t try to convince anyone that they are stylish.
Tevas seem neither functional nor stylish — but coming from someone who wears Birkenstocks. . . .
These were great for rafting and hiking that involved water crossings, but I’ve moved to Keens for their closed toes. Haven’t lost a toenail since.
As to wearing them anywhere else? No thanks.
Where’s the “April Fool!” Tag?
This just proves that nobody’s right all the time. Sorry, ACL.