There was a time when men’s sandals were considered anti-fashion, relegated to clueless tourists and dowdy dads who paired them with thick socks for an all-together unappealing look. But in today’s climate where we’re obsessed with all things Vikings, gladiators, and Game of Thrones, men’s sandals are this summer’s latest fashion trend with design houses like Gucci, Valentino, and Bottega Venata firmly on board.
In Saigon’s tropical heat and humidity, sandals make perfect sense with their open design and supreme breathability. Leading the charge to marry fashion and function is ManGii (196 Le Thanh Ton, D1), unveiling three new sandal designs just in time for summer. However, these are definitely not your Vietnamese uncle’s cream-colored sandals.
Hand-crafted with the same fine Italian leather and traditional techniques used in their dress shoes, ManGii’s sandals look great paired with cuffed trousers or linen shorts. Available in brown or black to better suit more conservative staples, you’ll actually find yourself reaching for them even on dressy occasions.
The Nero is a masculine slide sandal with thick crossover straps for a sturdy look and feel while the Xi channels your inner gladiator with its slim woven straps that show off more of the foot. The Julius will be in stores (Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City) this July, a caged sandal with a handsome thatched upper that achieves a pleasing balance of form and function.
In addition to looking good, ManGii’s sandals are Goodyear welted, a more expensive, time-consuming, and skillful construction typically reserved for pricier dress shoes. The benefit, though, is in the increased strength, durability and repair qualities which allow for complete removal of the sole without causing damage to the upper. So bring on Saigon’s rainy season because these sandals are here to last.
ManGii ready-to-wear Xi, Nero, and Julius sandals for men range from VND 900,000 to 1,200,000 and are available at the Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi stores. For more, visit www.mangiishoes.com
