If you're like me, you've seen those stylish fisherman sandals making rounds in lookbooks and on influencers. They’re versatile, timeless, and perfect for summer. The only catch? The price tag. Dropping $300 on a pair of sandals is a tough pill to swallow for most of us.
@mikemonnette Restoring Secondhand Fisherman Sandals There are a lot of good options on ebay - search for fisherman sandals and filter to used and leather. Cole Haan is a good brand to look for, but there are others out there as well. Leather lasts a long time when properly cared for, and a lot of these shoes can also be re-soled, so you can really extend the life of these if you’re so inclined. #fashiondiy #menswear #mensstyle #mensstyleguide #mensfashion #mensfashiontips #style #fishermansandals #greeksandals #leathersandals ♬ original sound - Noah Kahan
So, what's the alternative? Let me tell you about my recent find: a pair of Cole Haan fisherman sandals that I scored for just $10 at a flea market. It’s not just luck—there are plenty of similar deals out there. In fact, you can find options on eBay for under $40.
But Wait, Used Sandals?
I know what you’re thinking: “Used sandals? Ew.” It’s understandable to feel a bit hesitant about buying pre-loved shoes, especially sandals. But with a little effort, you can make them feel (and look) brand new. Here’s my step-by-step guide to cleaning and conditioning your thrifted leather sandals:Step 1: Clean the Sandals
The first step is to give them a thorough cleaning. I use a shoe wash from MGK to get rid of any dirt and grime. It’s important to scrub all the nooks and crannies—trust me, you'll feel a lot better once you see all the nastiness come off.Step 2: Condition the Leather
Now that they’re clean, you might notice that the leather looks a bit dry or cracked. This is where Chamberlain’s Leather Balm comes in. Apply a small amount and rub it in to recondition the leather. This not only makes them look better but also extends their life. Leather is a durable material when properly cared for, and a lot of these sandals can even be re-soled, making them a long-term investment.A Few Tips for Conditioning
Be aware that the leather might darken when you first apply the balm. Don't worry, this is normal—they’ll lighten up as they dry out over time.Between the sandals themselves ($10), the cleaner, and the leather balm, I spent just about $45. For a pair of sandals that look this good, I’d say that’s a pretty solid deal.