By: Joseph Lim
Our writers and editors look for the best equipment available. We test, research, and review the best products in different categories with a focus on quality, performance, and the overall value for the price. In this instance, we used a pair of Reef Fanning flip flops throughout summer in different conditions and on different terrains.
For most people in surfing and beach partying circles, REEF is as familiar a brand as Nikon is for photographers.
Most flip flops on REEF’s extensive lineup have built up a cult following over the years. That said, one stands out head and shoulders above the rest—the REEF Men’s Fanning Flip Flops.
Named after the legendary pro surfer Mick Fanning, the Fanning Flip Flops embody the Australian surf culture. They’re teak-tough, functional, and great for parties!
While they’ve introduced a variety of new sandals, slides, and flip flops, REEF has stood by their signature Fanning Flip Flops’ original design for ages, and rightfully so.
The REEF Fanning Flip Flops are both durable and comfortable. They feature a synthetic nubuck upper, a full EVA footbed with a 360-degree heel airbag, and a herringbone rubber outsole.
Far from being all business, the Fanning Flip Flops also feature a bottle opener built into their rubber outsoles, which allows their wearers to open a cold one whenever and wherever they are.
That being said, whether or not they’re the right pair of flip flops for you depends on how you intend to use them.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Offers surprising support -
360-degree heel airbag makes for comfortable walking
-
Bottle opener is great for hot summer days
-
Has decent traction
Things we don't like:
-
Bottle opener can get mud enlodged in it
Material/Durability/Use/Comfort:
While it is one of the more plain-looking flip flops in its segment, the REEF Men’s Fanning Flip Flops do have a lot going for it.
The flip flops’ premium synthetic nubuck upper makes them light, quick-drying and quite durable.
Coupled with the Fannings’ grippy herringbone rubber outsole, this not only makes them ideal for everyday beach wear, but also for outdoor adventures that require you to tackle a variety of wet environments.
Extended hikes in the Fannings are also not a problem, regardless of terrain.
Their wide straps, as well as their compression molded EVA footbed combined with their 360-degree heel airbag make them quite comfortable, especially for those who need a bit of heel support.
They’re not without their flaws, though.
As someone who lives in the tropics and wears flip flops for almost all outdoor activities, I find the Fannings to be unsuitable for certain surfaces and environments.
Their built-in bottle openers, while a nifty feature, can leave scuff marks on hardwood and tiled floors.
Moreover, not everyone wants to use a bottle opener that’s caked with dirt.
This is especially true if, like me, you live in a developing Southeast Asian country, where city streets are filled with all sorts of stuff–from trash, to rotting roadkill, to animal fecal matter.
While the Fannings are still great for everyday use, their bottle openers become nothing more than a gimmicky feature here. Using the Fannings’ bottle opener here would be a one-way ticket to getting sick.
Specs & Features
- Herringbone rubber outsole w/ built in bottle opener
- Padded liner
- Synthetic nubuck upper
- Compression molded EVA footbed
- Weight:: ~7.7 oz
- Sizing: : 4-17 US
That said, if you only use the Fannings in a fancy beach resort, where there’s great waste management, and where strays and disease-carrying vermin don’t roam freely, I could definitely see how the bottle openers can be a great feature, especially during hot summer days.
Value/Conclusion:
The REEF Men’s Fanning Flip Flops is a solid flip flop if you want something to use exclusively for beach parties and for those downtimes in between surfing sessions.
At around 50 to 60 bucks, they’re not the cheapest pair of flip flops out there, but having one reliable pair of flip flops is better than constantly tearing through cheap ones.
That said, if you’re just looking for a simple pair of flip flops, and don’t really care for comfort or heel support, there are definitely cheaper options out there that are just as durable.
Check out our list of the best flip flops in 2022 and see how other top-selling flip flops stack up against the Fannings.
If you still want a REEF flip flop, but could definitely do without the built-in bottle opener (because honestly, you could just bring one with you), you might want to look into the REEF Men’s Smoothy Sandals, or the REEF Phantoms.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Offers surprising support
-
360-degree heel airbag makes for comfortable walking
-
Bottle opener is great for hot summer days
-
Has decent traction
Things we don't like:
-
Bottle opener can get mud enlodged in it
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about REEF Men’s Fanning Flip Flops:
The REEF Fanning Flip Flops are footwear named after legendary pro surfer Mick Fanning. Targeted at surfers and casual beach-goers, they feature a comfortable and supportive footbed with shock absorbing qualities, and they also feature a built-in bottle opener, which is great for when you need to get a drink after a long day of surfing!
In general, the hype around REEF flip flops is well earned. Since the company’s inception, REEF has consistently made quality flip flops that are known for durability and comfort.
REEF flip flops generally run a bit small, and most of the time, there is a fair amount of break in period required for you to achieve the right fit. That said, it is recommended that you order at least one size up!
Like most sandals, REEF sandals do float. The materials used in crafting REEF sandals allow them to remain lightweight, which, consequently, allows them to float. Sandals, in general, are designed this way not just so they’re comfortable, but also so they can be easily retrieved on the surface of the water if they slip off your feet.
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