Every year, as the days grow longer and warmer, the ritual begins. I rummage through the back of my closet, past heavy winter boots and worn-out sneakers, in search of my go-to summer footwear. The criteria seem simple enough: a pair of sandals that I can slip on for a quick trip to the grocery store, wear while watering the garden, and not worry about ruining at the beach or by the pool. Yet, this seemingly simple quest is often fraught with disappointment. I’ve had pairs with fabric straps that take ages to dry and develop a musty smell. I’ve owned foam flip flops that offer zero support and feel like walking on cardboard after a few weeks. And I’ve certainly had sandals that disintegrate the moment they encounter a bit of rough pavement. The problem is finding a single pair that balances comfort, durability, and a forgiving, waterproof design without costing a fortune. Not having one means constantly switching shoes or, worse, ruining a perfectly good pair of casual sneakers because you got caught in a summer shower or got too close to the sprinklers. This annual frustration is what led me to take a closer look at a sandal promising a high-tech solution to this low-tech problem.
- SIZE AND FIT: This innovative, lightweight, ultra-comfy Everywear flip flop sandal is available in standard US men's whole shoe sizes 8-13 only. If you wear a half size we recommend sizing up for the...
- DURABILITY & COMFORT: Built with our patented Everywear technology for unmatched flexibility, serious durability, and all-day support that won't quit. These versatile flip flops deliver a secure,...
- CONTOURED FOOTBED: Engineered with a soft, textured surface that massages your feet with every step, while the sturdy contoured design delivers unbeatable comfort and shock absorption for all-day...
What to Consider Before Buying Men’s Sandals
A pair of men’s sandals is more than just footwear; it’s a key solution for comfort, convenience, and foot health during warm weather. They provide essential ventilation that enclosed shoes can’t, reducing the risk of overheating and fungal infections. The main benefit is liberation—the freedom to quickly slip on shoes for a casual outing, a day at the beach, or simply relaxing in the backyard. They are the unofficial uniform of summer, designed for ease and relaxation. However, not all sandals are created equal, and choosing the wrong pair can lead to discomfort, blisters, or even foot pain due to a lack of support.
The ideal customer for a product like the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal is someone who prioritizes practicality and value. This includes beachgoers, pool loungers, boaters, campers, gardeners, or anyone needing a simple, durable, and waterproof slip-on for daily chores and casual activities. They want something they can get wet, rinse off, and forget about. Conversely, this type of sandal might not be suitable for those who require significant orthopedic support for conditions like plantar fasciitis, or for individuals who will be walking long distances on hard city pavement. Hikers, long-distance walkers, or those seeking a more formal aesthetic for summer evenings should consider alternatives with more robust arch support, premium materials like leather, or more secure strapping systems.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Fit & Sizing: This is paramount for any footwear, but especially for sandals where there’s less structure to hide sizing errors. A sandal that is too small will leave your heel or toes hanging off the edge, creating an unstable and uncomfortable experience. One that is too large can cause you to trip or lead to chafing from loose straps. Always check if a brand runs true to size, and pay close attention to recommendations for half-sizes, as many sandals only come in whole sizes.
- Comfort & Support: Performance in a sandal is all about how it feels underfoot. Look at the footbed design. Is it flat or contoured? A contoured footbed that cradles the heel and provides some arch support will be far more comfortable for extended wear than a completely flat sole. The material’s cushioning and shock absorption also play a huge role in overall performance and comfort.
- Materials & Durability: The material dictates a sandal’s purpose, longevity, and feel. Traditional leather sandals are durable and mold to your feet over time but are not ideal for water. Rubber and EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) are perfect for wet conditions as they are waterproof, lightweight, and easy to clean. The construction, such as whether it’s a single molded piece or multiple glued components, will heavily influence its long-term durability.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The beauty of a great sandal is its simplicity. It should be easy to slip on and off. Maintenance is another key factor for long-term satisfaction. Can you simply rinse it with a hose, or does it require special cleaning? Some modern EVA sandals are even machine washable, offering the ultimate convenience for a low-maintenance lifestyle.
Finding a sandal that ticks all these boxes can be a challenge, but it’s essential for a comfortable and carefree summer.
While the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal is an excellent choice for a specific type of user, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Outdoor, sporty sandal
- Mens Dressy Casual Sandals: Faux leather padded strap is business and comfortable, matching with trendy shorts, fashion jeans and dress shirts. Premium arches thick cushion foam serve walking on cloud...
- Made for ease and comfort, the Adilette Shower Slides feature a quick-dry upper ideal for dorm room routines or music festival days. Cloudfoam provides plush cushioning, ensuring all-day comfort...
First Impressions: So Light, It’s Almost Unbelievable
Upon receiving the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal, the first thing I noticed wasn’t what was there, but what wasn’t: weight. The box felt practically empty. Unpacking them confirmed this initial impression; these sandals are astonishingly light. This is the immediate, tangible benefit of their single-material EVA construction and patented Everywear technology. Holding them in my hands, they feel less like traditional footwear and more like a high-tech piece of foam equipment. The flexibility is remarkable; I could easily bend the sandal in half without any sense of strain or cracking.
The visual inspection revealed a simple, no-frills design. The black color is uniform and classic, suitable for just about any casual setting. As noted by some users, you can see faint lines from the molding process along the edges. This isn’t a flaw, but rather an artifact of its manufacturing that distinguishes it from higher-end, multi-material sandals. It doesn’t detract from the overall look, but it does signal that this is a product built for function over high fashion. The footbed has an intriguing textured, almost honeycomb-like pattern, which I was eager to see felt like underfoot. The entire sandal, from the sole to the straps and toe post, is one continuous material, which immediately gave me confidence in its potential durability for wet environments, where glued-on straps often fail first. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a closer look at this construction.
Key Benefits
- Incredibly lightweight, almost feeling like you’re barefoot
- Completely waterproof and floats in water, ideal for pools and beaches
- Durable one-piece EVA construction resists breaking and tearing
- Extremely easy to clean and machine washable for ultimate convenience
- Excellent value for the price point
Potential Drawbacks
- Sizing can be inconsistent and tends to run small
- Footbed design, particularly the heel area, can be uncomfortable for some foot shapes
- Minimal arch support for all-day walking on hard surfaces
A Deep Dive into the totes Everywear Sandal’s Performance
A sandal’s true worth is only revealed through wear. Initial impressions can be telling, but how does it hold up to a day of chores, a walk on the beach, and constant use? We put the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal through its paces to dissect its core features and determine if its performance lives up to its promises.
The Everywear Technology: Lightweight Durability Redefined
The heart and soul of this sandal is totes’ patented Everywear technology. It’s a proprietary EVA foam compound that delivers a unique combination of lightness, flexibility, and resilience. From the moment I slipped them on, the lack of weight was the dominant sensation. It’s a liberating feeling, especially when compared to heavy rubber flip flops or clunky leather sandals. This featherlight quality reduces foot fatigue over the course of a day, making them feel like a natural extension of your feet rather than a burden.
We tested their durability by wearing them for yard work, which involved walking on gravel, soft soil, and pavement. The material proved to be impressively puncture-resistant and didn’t show any significant scuffs or scratches. One of the most talked-about features is that they float, which we confirmed at the local pool. Dropping them in the water, they bobbed right back to the surface, a simple but brilliant feature for anyone who’s ever lost a sandal off a dock or in the surf. This speaks directly to their intended use case. This isn’t just a sandal; it’s a piece of gear designed for water-centric activities. Multiple users confirmed our findings, with one noting they’ve been “worn daily for a long time, and still appear to be brand new,” even by someone who is clumsy. The one-piece construction is key here; with no glued seams or stitched straps, the most common failure points on cheap flip flops are completely eliminated. This design choice results in a sandal that feels both simple and indestructible, a rare combination in this price range. For those seeking a truly worry-free option, this lightweight and durable construction is a major selling point.
Comfort and Footbed Design: A Divisive Experience
Comfort is deeply subjective, and this is where the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal becomes a more complex story. The footbed is where you’ll either fall in love or decide to look elsewhere. It features a textured, honeycomb-like surface designed to provide grip and a gentle massaging sensation. During my testing, I found this texture to be pleasant and effective at preventing my foot from slipping, especially when wet. The material itself offers a good amount of cushioning—not overly squishy, but firm enough to absorb shock from walking on hard surfaces like tile or concrete.
However, the contouring of the footbed is a point of contention, and our experience aligns perfectly with the mixed user feedback. While the overall shape is subtly supportive, there is a distinct, raised bump located directly under the center of the heel. For my foot shape, this felt a bit unusual at first but wasn’t uncomfortable. But I can easily see how it could be a dealbreaker. One user described it perfectly: “Unlike most flip flops that have a moulded area for your heel to comfortably and securely rest… these have a raised, hard bump right under the heel. Makes it very uncomfortable.” This design choice seems to be the sandal’s biggest gamble. It may align perfectly with some heel structures, providing targeted support, while for others, it creates an awkward and unstable pressure point. Furthermore, the arch support is minimal at best. While adequate for short-term wear around the house or pool, it’s not designed for long walks or for those who need substantial support. This is a crucial distinction for potential buyers to understand before they check the latest price and availability.
Sizing, Fit, and Finish: Setting Realistic Expectations
Getting the fit right is critical, and this is another area where shoppers need to be cautious. Based on our testing and a consensus among user reviews, the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal runs small. I typically wear a size 11, and the size 11 I tested fit exactly, with my heel right at the edge. Sizing up, as the manufacturer recommends for half sizes, is absolutely the correct advice. One user who wears a size 11 ordered a 12 and found that it “barely fit.” Another user provided a compelling photo comparing a size 13 of this sandal to two other brands, showing it to be visibly shorter. Our advice is unequivocal: if you are a half size or prefer a little extra room, order the next full size up.
Regarding the overall fit, the straps are comfortably snug without being restrictive. I have average-width feet, and they felt secure. One user noted that they accommodate wide feet well, which is a good sign of a forgiving design. The toe post is made from the same firm EVA material as the rest of the sandal. For me, it was comfortable and didn’t cause any chafing, but as one reviewer pointed out, it’s different from the “soft, narrower, ribbon style” separators found on other sandals. If you are particularly sensitive between your toes, this firmer post is something to be aware of. Finally, the finish is consistent with its price point. The molding lines are visible upon close inspection, and it lacks the polished look of a premium leather or suede sandal. But for a sub-$20 utility sandal, these are minor aesthetic trade-offs for a product that is otherwise incredibly functional.
Practicality in Action: Waterproof, Washable, and Worry-Free
Where the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal truly shines is in its everyday, real-world practicality. This is the sandal you grab without a second thought. Because it’s 100% waterproof and made of a non-porous material, it’s the perfect companion for any activity involving water. We wore them at a public pool, and the textured sole provided confident grip on the wet, slick concrete. After a day of gardening, they were caked in mud, but a quick spray with a hose had them looking brand new in seconds—no need to worry about water stains or damaging delicate materials.
The most impressive practical feature, however, is its effortless maintenance. The care instructions state they are machine washable, a claim we had to test. I tossed them into the washing machine with a load of towels on a warm water cycle and let them air dry. They emerged perfectly clean and completely unscathed, with no signs of warping or damage. This is a game-changing feature for footwear that is likely to get dirty, sweaty, or sandy. It transforms them from a disposable summer accessory into a durable, reusable tool for warm-weather living. This level of convenience and worry-free ownership is what makes them such a compelling option. They embody the “slip-on-and-go” ethos better than almost any other sandal we’ve tested, making them an easy choice to add to your summer gear collection.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing the broad spectrum of user feedback provides a remarkably clear and balanced picture of the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal. The positive sentiment overwhelmingly centers on value, comfort (for some), and practicality. Many users are pleasantly surprised by the quality given the low price, with one picky footwear buyer stating, “These flip flops are great and very comfortable. Don’t let the price fool you.” Another echoed this, saying they were “very pleased with the quality and look.” The lightweight, waterproof, and easy-to-clean nature is a recurring theme, with many highlighting them as perfect for the beach, pool, or as house slippers.
However, the negative feedback is just as specific and consistent, focusing on three main issues. The most critical is the divisive comfort of the footbed, particularly the “raised, hard bump right under the heel” that one user found unbearable. The second major complaint is sizing, with multiple reports and photographic evidence suggesting the sandals run a full size small. Finally, there are isolated reports of poor quality control, with one user claiming their pair “fell apart” after just 10 minutes. While this seems to be an outlier given the numerous reviews praising their durability, it’s a relevant point for a mass-produced item. This feedback confirms our own findings: it’s a high-value but potentially polarizing sandal.
How Does the totes Everywear Sandal Compare to the Alternatives?
The totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal occupies a specific niche in the market. To understand its place, it’s best to compare it against some of the leading competitors that cater to different needs and preferences.
1. Rainbow Sandals Men’s Premier Leather
- Single Layer Arch
- Embossed Rainbow Logo
- Double Stitched
The Rainbow Sandal is an icon, representing a completely different philosophy. Made from premium nubuck leather with a non-slip rubber sole, it’s built for longevity and classic style. Unlike the instant comfort of the totes EVA sandal, Rainbows require a significant break-in period during which they mold perfectly to your foot shape. They are significantly more expensive and are not suitable for getting wet. Someone would choose the Rainbow sandal over the totes Everywear if they are looking for a long-term investment piece for dry, casual wear and prioritize the timeless look and feel of leather over the utility and waterproof nature of EVA.
2. PUMA Cool Cat 2.0 Slide Sandal
- RESILIENT BUILD: This slide boasts a durable synthetic leather upper and a light molded EVA outsole that enhances its durability and can withstand regular wear and tear.
- OPTIMAL COMFORT: The soft molded footbed of the slide provides superior comfort.
- VERSATILE & ON-THE-GO: Whether you're headed to the gym, running errands, or relaxing by the pool, these slides are the ultimate choice. Their slip-on design allows you to effortlessly slide in and...
The PUMA Cool Cat 2.0 Slide is a direct competitor in style and function, but as a slide, not a flip flop. It appeals to a user who dislikes the toe post (thong) design. Like the totes sandal, it’s often made from synthetic, water-friendly materials and is priced affordably. The PUMA slide is aimed at an athletic and streetwear audience, perfect for wearing to the gym, after sports, or for casual errands. A user would choose the PUMA slide if they prefer the slide-in style for wearing with socks, want a more brand-forward athletic look, and do not require the specific security of a thong-style flip flop.
3. REEF Men’s Fanning Flip Flops Bottle Opener
- Upper | A mix of premium strap materials with a soft padded jersey lining
- Footbed | Compression molded high rebound EVA with a built-in airbag under foot for added comfort
- Outsole | Non-Marking Rubber Outsole with Bottle opener so that no party may go unquenched
The REEF Fanning is a feature-packed, premium flip flop. It’s famous for its built-in bottle opener on the sole, but its real selling point is superior comfort, featuring a compression-molded EVA footbed, a 360-degree heel airbag for shock absorption, and anatomical arch support. It’s water-friendly but more complex in its construction than the single-mold totes sandal. A buyer would opt for the REEF Fanning if they are willing to pay a premium for enhanced comfort, superior arch support for longer walks, and fun, practical features like the bottle opener. It’s the choice for someone who wants a feature-rich, high-performance flip flop, whereas the totes sandal is the choice for minimalist utility.
The Final Verdict: A Superb, High-Value Utility Sandal
After extensive testing, it’s clear that the totes Everywear Lightweight Waterproof Flip Flop Sandal is a fantastic product, provided you understand exactly what it is—and what it isn’t. It is not a premium, high-fashion sandal, nor is it an orthopedic device for all-day trekking. Instead, it is perhaps one of the best utility sandals available at its price point. Its incredible lightness, complete waterproof design, and ridiculously easy maintenance make it the undisputed champion for use at the pool, beach, in the garden, or as a simple house slipper. It’s the sandal you can abuse without a second thought.
The primary caveats are fit and the unique footbed design. We strongly recommend ordering a size up to ensure a proper fit, and you should be aware of the pronounced heel contour that some users find uncomfortable. If those potential issues aren’t dealbreakers for you, what you get is a durable, practical, and unbelievably lightweight sandal for an exceptionally low price. For anyone in need of a no-fuss, worry-free summer slip-on, this sandal delivers outstanding value. If you’re ready for a featherlight flip flop that can handle just about anything you throw at it, we highly recommend you check out the totes Everywear Sandal today.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API