An open letter to men wearing sandals this summer or “mandals”:

As the temperatures start to rise, we don’t blame you for wanting some ventilation for your feet. Just make sure you are prepared for the wide variety of opinions and comments from many friends and family members while wearing a pair.

There are many styles of “mandals” on the market these days. From the legendary Teva’s with the bottle opener on the bottom of the shoe, the classic flip flop that you can buy almost anywhere and Birkenstocks, which have become a casual fan favorite for many college men.

When it comes down to it, it is all about how one wears the mandals that really matters. Here are a few dos and don’ts to wearing mandals this summer.

Do: Take care of your feet! Make sure you clean up your feet before you put on your mandals.

Don’t: Wear socks with your mandals, unless you are wearing Birkenstocks, then it is OK. Just avoid the sports socks, please!

Do: Invest in a high quality pair that will last you the entire summer. Find a stylish pair that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Don’t: Wear mandals to work, unless you are a lifeguard.

Do: Wear your mandals to the beach. They are essential for the summer heat and allow you to be the first one to jump in the water.

Don’t: Purchase mandals of the velcro variety. You should know how to buckle, slip on or lace up a pair of sandals.

DO: Make sure they fit your feet. There is a fine line between squished and swimming.

DON’T: Consider any mandals with a chunky sole. This will help you avoid looking as if you are from the 90s.

DO: Research before you buy. Many retailers sell the same brands of shoes, so find the highest quality mandals with the best price.

DON’T: Get trapped in closed toe mandals. They defeat the purpose of ventilating your feet.

Mandals allow a man to let his feet be free from stuffy socks and closed toe shoes during the warmer months. Make sure you pair them with the correct outfit and the right occasion.

“I feel like [mandals] are appropriate in some situations. Don’t ever wear them in a business casual setting, but obviously with summer wear and shorts it is acceptable” Jordan Julson, digital marketing coordinator at the Iowa State Center, said.