Summer is here, and it’s time to ditch the closed-toe shoes and let your feet breathe! But comfort shouldn’t be sacrificed for style. Here’s a guide to the best comfort sandals for women that will keep your feet happy all summer long, whether you’re pounding the pavement, strolling on the beach, or just relaxing by the pool.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN SHOPPING FOR COMFORTABLE SANDALS
When it comes to comfort sandals, the key is finding a design that offers the right amount of support and keeps your feet securely in place. Here are some key features to look for:
Supportive Straps: Ditch the flimsy toe-thong styles. Opt for wider straps that distribute pressure evenly across your foot to prevent chafing and provide a secure fit, especially crucial for lots of walking. Look for ankle straps with buckles or velcro adjustments for added stability and to prevent your foot from sliding around.
Perfect Fit: A well-fitting sandal is essential to prevent blisters and discomfort. Ensure the sandals aren’t too big or too tight, and consider trying them on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen for the most accurate fit.
Width Options: Not all feet are created equal! Look for sandals that come in different widths to accommodate narrow, average, or wide feet. Choose the width that best fits your foot and ensures your entire foot is comfortable and supported.
Supportive Footbed: The foundation of comfort lies in the footbed. Look for sandals with arch support and a heel cup. The arch support should cradle your natural arch without forcing it into an unnatural position, while the heel cup helps keep your foot stable and aligned.
WHAT TO AVOID WHEN SHOPPING FOR COMFORTABLE SANDALS
Flimsy Straps: Those cute sandals with delicate straps might look adorable, but they likely won’t provide the support you need for long-term comfort. Avoid flimsy straps that can dig in, cause blisters, and offer little stability.
Super High Heels: While a slight wedge can add some height and style, sky-high heels are a recipe for discomfort, especially in sandals. Opt for flatter options or wedges with a moderate incline for better stability and support throughout the day.
Lack of Arch Support: A flat, unsupportive footbed is a major comfort no-no. It can lead to fatigue, arch pain, and other foot problems. Look for sandals with built-in arch support that conforms to the natural curve of your arch.
Stiff or Unbending Soles: Super stiff soles might seem appealing for durability, but they can be unforgiving on your feet. Opt for sandals with soles that have some flexibility to allow for natural movement and absorb shock with each step.
Narrow Widths: If your feet tend to be wider, cramming them into narrow sandals will only lead to pain and blisters. Choose sandals that come in a variety of widths to ensure a comfortable, secure fit for your specific foot shape.
OUR MOST COMFORTABLE PICKS
TEVA ZYMIC WOMEN’S SANDAL
If you’re searching for a sandal that blends comfort, style, and versatility, look no further than the Teva Zymic Women’s Sandal. This sandal boasts features that cater to all-day wear and various activities. Supportive, wide straps made from recycled polyester ensure a comfortable fit that adjusts easily with the handy hook-and-loop closure. The MAX-COMF footbed delivers crucial arch support and cushioning, keeping your feet happy on long walks or adventures. For durability and traction on any terrain, the Teva Zymic sports a chunky outsole made of natural rubber. Available in a range of colors, this sandal seamlessly transitions from casual outings to hikes or even beach trips, making it a great choice for the active woman who prioritizes both comfort and style.
TEVA MIDFORM UNIVERSAL SANDALS
Teva’s Midform Universal Sandals offer a perfect balance between style and comfort, ideal for the woman who wants a touch of height without sacrificing practicality. These sandals feature a 1.25 inch platform sole, providing a slight elevation that flatters the leg and adds a bit of fashion flair. However, unlike some high-heeled sandals, the Midform Universals retain the comfort Teva is known for. A supportive footbed with arch support keeps your feet happy all day, while the durable rubber outsole ensures traction on various terrains. The classic silhouette with adjustable straps allows for a secure, comfortable fit, making them a versatile choice for all-day wear, from running errands to grabbing drinks with friends.
SKECHERS GO WALK MASSAGE FIT TRANSCEND SANDAL
Skechers offers a comfort-focused option with the GO WALK Massage Fit Transcend Sandal. This sandal prioritizes foot pampering with its innovative features. They sport a woven fabric strap upper that’s comfortable and breathable, ideal for warm weather wear. A key feature is Skechers’ Massage Fit technology integrated into the contoured Goga Mat footbed. This technology provides a massaging effect as you walk, promoting circulation and reducing fatigue. For additional comfort, the sandal boasts a highly lightweight and responsive ULTRA BURST cushioned midsole that absorbs shock with each step. Easy to adjust with hook-and-loop closures, the GO WALK Massage Fit Transcend Sandal is a great choice for anyone who prioritizes comfort and a touch of massage therapy pampering with every step.
CLARKS ARLA JACORY WEDGES
The Arla Jacory features a classic sports-inspired design with a comfortable sand fabric upper and a riptape fastening for an adjustable yet secure fit. A key feature is the Clarks Cushion Soft™ technology integrated into the midsole, which absorbs shock and provides exceptional comfort with every step. Furthermore, the Arla Jacory boasts a supportive EVA midsole and footbed that delivers additional cushioning and arch support. For a touch of height and a flattering silhouette, the sandal incorporates a wedge heel that is moderate in height, making them ideal for those who want to avoid the discomfort of high heels. Overall, the Clarks Arla Jacory Wedge Sandals are a versatile choice that provides comfort, style, and a touch of lift, perfect for day trips, errands, or even light walks.
MERRELL BRAVADA BACKSTRAP SANDAL
Merrell’s Bravada Backstrap Sandal caters to women who prioritize affordability and comfort for everyday wear. This sandal is designed for conquering your day with its features focused on practicality and ease of use. A breathable mesh upper made from 100% recycled webbing keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while the hook-and-loop closure system allows for quick and easy adjustability to ensure a secure fit. The Bravada Backstrap boasts a supportive footbed with arch support, providing stability and comfort throughout the day. For traction on various surfaces, the sandal incorporates a durable QuantumGrip™ outsole. At a budget-friendly price point, the Merrell Bravada Backstrap Sandal is a versatile choice for casual wear, errands, or light walks, offering a comfortable and practical option for everyday adventures.
OOFOS OOAHH SLIDES
Designed with post-workout recovery in mind, OOFOS OOahh Slides are a great choice for athletes or anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet. These sandals prioritize maximum comfort and feature the brand’s OOfoam™ technology. This proprietary material is engineered to absorb 37% more impact than traditional foam, reducing stress on your joints and promoting faster recovery. The OOahh Slides also boast a cradle design that supports the arch and a contoured footbed that provides a luxurious feel. Additionally, the slides are machine washable for easy cleaning. While not ideal for extensive walking or outdoor adventures, OOFOS OOahh Slides are perfect for relaxing at home or after a workout, offering a spa-like experience for tired feet.
SOREL VIIBE SANDAL
For a modern twist on comfort sandals, check out the Sorel Viive Sandal. This sandal combines style and functionality, making it a great choice for everyday wear. The Viive boasts a full grain leather upper with puffed forefoot detailing that adds a touch of design. In terms of comfort, the sandal features two points of adjustability with a midfoot webbing strap and a back heel strap with hook and loop closures for a secure and personalized fit. A molded and contoured EVA footbed with a synthetic topcover provides cushioning and comfort, while the lightweight molded Livelyfoam midsole offers additional shock absorption. For durability, the Sorel Viive Sandal incorporates a molded rubber outsole with ground contact EVA for better traction. Overall, this sandal is a stylish and comfortable option that transitions well from casual outings to light walks.
DR. MARTENS VOSS LEATHER STRAP SANDALS
Dr. Martens offers a unique twist on comfort sandals with the Voss Leather Strap Sandals. These sandals combine the brand’s signature edge with features designed for all-day wear. Constructed from a smooth, matte-finish Hydro leather, the Voss sandals provide a touch of Dr. Martens’ renowned durability. Two adjustable buckled straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit, while a slight platform sole adds a touch of height without sacrificing stability. For comfort, the sandals feature a soft, breathable lining and a lightweight EVA sole with a ripple tread for better traction. Goodyear-welted construction, a Dr. Martens hallmark, ensures the sandals are built to last. Whether you’re a longtime Doc Martens fan or seeking a comfortable sandal with a touch of attitude, the Voss Leather Strap Sandals are a great choice.
SOREL KINETIC IMPACT SANDAL
Built for all-day adventures, the Sorel Kinetic Impact Sandal combines bold style with impressive comfort features. This sandal caters to women who want a statement piece that can keep up with their active lifestyle. The Kinetic Impact boasts a unique silhouette with a big, scalloped sole that’s lightweight yet designed for increased ground contact. This innovative sole provides both style and practicality, ensuring stability on various terrains. In terms of comfort, the sandal features footbed cushioning with arch support for all-day wear. Depending on your preference, you can choose from a sporty slide style or a version with a trendy wedge heel, both offering a secure and comfortable fit with adjustable straps. With its blend of style, comfort, and durability, the Sorel Kinetic Impact Sandal is a great choice for conquering errands, exploring the city, or venturing on light hikes.
NATURALIZER BIRCH ANKLE-STRAP SANDALS
Naturalizer’s Birch Ankle-Strap Sandal is a great option for those seeking a balance between style and comfort. These sandals boast an asymmetric vamp strap and a stylish toe ring, adding a modern touch to a classic silhouette. But don’t be fooled by their good looks! The Birch sandal prioritizes comfort with a cushioned footbed featuring Naturalizer’s Contour+ Comfort Technology. This technology conforms to the shape of your foot for personalized comfort and support throughout the day. A square toe and modest block heel add to the overall stylish look, making them versatile enough for work, casual outings, or even dressier occasions. The Birch Ankle-Strap Sandal comes in various colors and is a great choice for the woman who wants a comfortable and stylish sandal that can keep up with her busy lifestyle.
ECCO WOMEN’S FLOWT SANDAL
Ecco’s Women’s Flowt Sandal is a versatile option that blends modern design with everyday comfort. These sandals prioritize a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a clean upper that comes in a variety of colors. Despite the simple design, the Flowt Sandal incorporates features to ensure all-day wear comfort. Ecco is known for its innovative comfort technologies, and the Flowt Sandal is no exception. They likely feature a lightweight construction with an emphasis on flexibility, allowing your foot to move naturally. Ecco’s signature footbed technology, often incorporating arch support and contoured shaping, is likely included for added comfort. Depending on your preference, the Flowt Sandal may come in various strap options, such as a slide or a buckled design, ensuring a secure and adjustable fit. Overall, the Ecco Women’s Flowt Sandal is a stylish and comfortable choice for everyday wear, errands, or light outings.
BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA BIG-BUCKLE SLIDE SANDALS
Are Birkenstock goof for your foot? Yes. Birkenstock sandals offer several benefits, particularly for individuals dealing with foot issues such as flat feet and plantar fasciitis. Birkenstock Arizona Big-Buckle Slide Sandals is an example. Birkenstock’s Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandals offer a bold take on a classic silhouette, ideal for those who want a statement sandal with undeniable comfort. These sandals feature the iconic Birkenstock elements: a comfortable two-strap design with an emphasis on arch support. However, they kick things up a notch with an oversized, trendy buckle that adds a unique and eye-catching touch. Constructed from high-quality materials like leather or suede, the Arizona Big Buckle Slides prioritize durability and a natural, comfortable feel. The anatomically shaped cork footbed molds to the wearer’s foot over time, providing personalized comfort and support with each wear. This, combined with the brand’s signature Birkenstock sole with a pronounced heel cup, ensures stability and helps reduce fatigue. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable sandal with a touch of personality or a brand known for exceptional arch support, the Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandals are a great choice.
KEEN WOMEN’S ELLE MIXED STRAP SANDAL
Keen’s Elle Mixed Strap Sandal is a casual option that merges comfort and style for everyday wear. These sandals prioritize a relaxed and easygoing vibe with a combination of soft leather upper and bungee closures. This design feature allows for a comfortable fit that adjusts to your foot shape without being overly constricting. For added support and stability, the Elle Mixed Strap Sandal incorporates a platform heel and a KEEN.PROTECT toe bumper. While not specifically designed for rugged terrain, the KEEN.DRY technology likely offers water resistance, making them a versatile choice for light walks or even running errands on a drizzly day. Overall, the Keen Women’s Elle Mixed Strap Sandal is a comfortable and casual option ideal for everyday wear, offering a blend of style, practicality, and a touch of Keen’s signature durability.
TEVA HURRICANE XLT2 SANDALS
Forget flimsy sandals that leave your feet feeling unsupported. Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals are built for adventure, offering a winning combination of comfort, durability, and versatility. These sandals cater to women who prioritize performance on the trails. They feature a water-resistant upper crafted from recycled polyester straps for eco-conscious appeal. Adjustable heel straps and a protective toe cap shield your feet on uneven terrain, while a supportive footbed with arch support keeps you comfortable on long hikes. For dependable traction, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 boasts a durable rubber outsole with aggressive treads that grip various surfaces, wet or dry. Conquer challenging hikes, explore new cities, or run errands in style with these versatile sandals that come in a range of colors.
BIRKENSTOCK MILANO BIG BUCKLE SANDAL
Birkenstock’s Milano Big Buckle Sandal offers a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort sandal. It caters to those who want a touch of style without sacrificing Birkenstock’s renowned comfort. The Milano features a sleek, minimalist design with three adjustable straps and an oversized, eye-catching buckle that elevates the look from casual to chic. Constructed from smooth leather, the sandal prioritizes both durability and a luxurious feel. Comfort remains a focal point, however. The Birkenstock hallmarks are present: a contoured cork footbed that molds to your foot shape for personalized support and a pronounced heel cup that promotes stability and reduces fatigue. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable sandal with a touch of Italian flair or a brand known for exceptional arch support, the Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle Sandal is a stylish and functional choice.
TEVA VOYA INFINITY SANDALS
Designed for all-day comfort and effortless style, the Teva Voya Infinity Sandal is a great choice for women on the go. These sandals prioritize a lightweight feel with a breathable mesh upper that keeps your feet cool and comfortable during warm weather. Adjustable hook-and-loop closures ensure a secure, personalized fit, while a supportive footbed with arch support keeps your feet happy throughout the day. Whether you’re strolling along the beach, running errands, or exploring a new city, the Voya Infinity’s versatile design transitions seamlessly between activities. The outsole is made from a durable material that provides good traction on various surfaces, making them a practical choice for everyday wear. Available in a range of colors, the Teva Voya Infinity Sandal is a comfortable and stylish option that caters to the woman who prioritizes both fashion and function.
CHACO TOWNES SANDALS
Chaco’s Townes Sandal is a perfect choice for those seeking a comfortable and stylish sandal that elevates casual wear. They bridge the gap between a sporty sandal and a more everyday option. Constructed from full-grain leather straps, the Townes Sandal offers a touch of sophistication while remaining durable. A signature metal Chaco buckle allows for easy adjustability and a secure fit, ensuring your foot stays comfortable throughout the day. Chaco prioritizes comfort with the inclusion of their beloved Luvseat™ footbed. This footbed features arch support and ample cushioning, making them ideal for long walks or days spent exploring. With a variety of colors to choose from, the Chaco Townes Sandal seamlessly transitions from a day at the farmer’s market to a night out with friends, making them a versatile choice for the style-conscious woman who doesn’t want to sacrifice comfort.
DR. SCHOLL’S ISLANDER STRAPPY FLAT SANDALS
Dr. Scholl’s Islander Strappy Sandal is a breezy and sustainable option for summer. These sandals combine comfort and eco-conscious design, making them a great choice for the environmentally-friendly woman who prioritizes both style and feel-good wear. The Islander Strappy Sandal features soft, stretchy fabric straps for a comfortable, easy on-and-off fit. Sustainable elements come into play with linings partially made from recycled plastic bottles. But don’t be fooled by the focus on eco-consciousness, comfort remains a priority. These sandals boast a contoured footbed with arch support for all-day wear, plus a faux wood wedge heel that adds a touch of height and style without sacrificing stability. Available in a variety of colors, the Dr. Scholl’s Islander Strappy Sandal is a versatile choice that transitions well from casual outings to light walks, all while keeping your feet happy and the planet in mind.
MUNRO CORINE SANDALS
Designed for day-long comfort, the Munro Corine Sandal is a practical and stylish choice for everyday wear. These sandals prioritize both function and aesthetics. A fisherman-style silhouette with a cushioned footbed offers arch support to keep your feet happy throughout the day. The upper is crafted from luxurious leather that adds a touch of sophistication, while the textile lining and insole provide breathability and comfort. Munro incorporates a contoured cork footbed with a suede sock for additional cushioning and a plush feel. An easy-to-use hook-and-loop closure ensures a secure and adjustable fit, while the open round toe offers a relaxed and breezy feel. The outsole is made from a durable suede material that provides traction for various surfaces. Available in a classic black color, the Munro Corine Sandal seamlessly transitions from casual outings to light walks, making them a versatile choice for the woman who prioritizes both comfort and style.
MELISSA KICK OFF PLATFORM SANDALS
Combining trendy style with everyday comfort, the Melissa Kick Off Platform Sandal is a popular choice for summer. These sandals boast a chunky platform sole with a lightweight feel, thanks to the brand’s signature use of MELFLEX material, a type of flexible and comfortable PVC plastic. The wide straps ensure a secure fit and even pressure distribution across the top of your foot, preventing chafing. For added adjustability and a personalized fit, the Kick Off Platform Sandals feature velcro closures. Available in a variety of solid and transparent colors, these sandals add a touch of fun and personality to your summer outfits. Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk, grabbing coffee with friends, or running errands, the Melissa Kick Off Platform Sandal is a versatile choice that provides comfort, style, and a touch of summer flair.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS TO CHOOSE THE BEST COMFORT SANDALS
If you have specific foot concerns or a unique foot structure, consider these additional features when selecting sandals:
- Plantar Fasciitis Relief: For plantar fasciitis sufferers, seek sandals with supportive footbeds and a slight wedge heel. This combination helps reduce pressure on the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia, promoting pain relief.
- High Arch Support: Folks with high arches benefit from sandals that incorporate shock absorption and a conforming footbed. These features help distribute pressure more evenly, reducing strain on your high arches.
- Flat Feet Support: Flat feet can lead to overworked posterior tibial tendons, the muscles that support your arch. To address this, Dr. Parthasarathy Priya Parthasarathy, a board-certified podiatrist, recommends prioritizing sandals with arch support. This extra support helps stabilize your foot and prevent future discomfort.
CONCLUSION
So ditch the closed-toe shoes and step into summer with confidence! With this guide to the best comfort sandals for women, you’re sure to find the perfect pair that offers both style and support. Whether you prioritize features for all-day wear, outdoor adventures, or a touch of personality, there’s a sandal out there that will keep your feet happy and your steps light. Remember, if you have any specific foot needs, don’t hesitate to consult with a podiatrist for personalized recommendations. Happy shopping!
