DIY LAVENDER SALVE: A SOOTHING BALM FOR SKIN AND MIND

Lavender salve is a versatile and effective topical remedy that can be easily made at home. It offers a range of benefits, including: Skin healing: Soothes irritation, moisturizes dry skin, and can help heal acne, scrapes, and eczema; Stress relief: The calming aroma of lavender is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Making lavender salve is surprisingly simple. If you’ve followed along with our previous tutorials on calendula or cannabis salve, you’ll find many familiar steps. However, lavender offers its own unique set of benefits. Let’s get started on creating your own soothing lavender salve!

What is Lavender Salve?

Not familiar with salve? Simply put, a salve is a healing solution applied to the skin, which can take the form of creams, ointments, or balms. Typically, salves are thick, shelf-stable, and contain nourishing oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil.

In addition to a base oil (or a blend of them), salves usually incorporate natural waxes or butters to help bind the ingredients and give them a semi-solid consistency at room temperature. Beeswax is a popular binding agent due to its availability, ease of use (especially in pastille form), and ability to create smooth, cohesive results.

If you prefer a vegan alternative to beeswax, check the ingredient list below for recommended substitutions. When you incorporate lavender-infused oil (or lavender essential oil) into a salve recipe, you create a delightful lavender salve, enriched with the medicinal benefits of lavender.

Lavender-infused oil vs. lavender essential oils

When you glance at the concise ingredient list below, you’ll notice our preference for a blend of homemade lavender-infused oil and a dash of lavender essential oil in our lavender salve recipe.

But what’s the difference? Lavender-infused oil is made by steeping dried lavender flowers in a carrier oil of your choice for a period of time. This process allows the natural essential oils from the lavender to be drawn out and infused into the carrier oil, which is then strained. In contrast, lavender essential oils, often found in small bottles, are produced through a distillation extraction process, which is typically done on a large industrial scale. While some hobbyists use small distillation stills at home, it’s not the most common method for making essential oils.

We love using lavender-infused oil because it utilizes our homegrown lavender and adds a personal touch along with an extra boost of natural lavender scent to the salve. However, if you prefer, you can also create lavender salve using plain oil and essential oils. If you’d like to make lavender-infused oil for this salve recipe, check out our instructions for preparing homemade lavender oil, and then return to the recipe once it’s ready!

The Health Benefits of Lavender

  • The soothing yet cheerful aroma of lavender is both calming and uplifting, making it a favorite for promoting relaxation. Scientific studies have shown that lavender can effectively reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia, helping individuals find peace in their daily lives.
  • Beyond its calming effects, lavender boasts powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, making it a versatile ingredient in natural remedies. It is well-known for deterring pest insects such as mosquitoes and flies, which is why many natural insect repellents include lavender in their formulations.
  • Additionally, lavender has remarkable healing capabilities. It can relieve pain and itching while promoting new cell growth, aiding in the repair of damaged skin tissue and healing wounds. In her book Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide, Rosemary Gladstar highlights lavender’s effectiveness in treating a variety of infections, including staph, strep, colds, flus, ringworm, and yeast infections. She also notes its ability to ease headaches and migraines, further showcasing its extensive benefits.
  • With its multitude of uses, lavender is not just a delightful fragrance; it’s a powerful ally in both physical and emotional well-being.

What can lavender salve be used for?

While lavender is often utilized in culinary and medicinal applications, its true gift lies in its ability to soothe our skin and nerves. You may have noticed that lavender features prominently in many natural skincare products, and it’s not just for its delightful fragrance! When applied topically, lavender can alleviate, heal, or treat a wide range of skin issues. Enter homemade lavender salve!

This versatile salve can be applied to irritated skin to reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort. It effectively addresses conditions such as rashes, bug bites, burns (including sunburn), acne, scrapes, eczema, stings, scars, and psoriasis. I find it particularly soothing after shaving, helping to prevent or treat razor burn, and it also calms the small rashes I sometimes get from brushing against certain plants in the garden.

Beyond treating ailments, homemade lavender salve is an excellent remedy for everyday issues like chapped lips, rough elbows and feet, or dry hands, providing essential moisture. After a long day of gardening, I love applying it to my dry, cracked cuticles!

If you’re looking for a natural way to unwind, simply dab some lavender salve on your temples, neck, wrists, and under your nose, then take a few deep breaths. The calming aromatherapy properties of lavender can help you relax, enhance your meditation or yoga practice, or prepare for a restful night’s sleep. I keep a tin on my bedside nightstand and often reach for it in the middle of the night when my mind is racing.

Lavender oil is generally safe for children and babies, making homemade lavender salve ideal for addressing issues like diaper rash or cradle cap. In fact, one study even found that lavender oil may help alleviate colic! Just remember never to use undiluted essential oils directly on the skin, and always double-check the safety of your other salve ingredients for use with infants.

Finally, lavender salve can also assist in shrinking skin ulcers, softening the appearance of scars, and reducing the swelling and discomfort associated with varicose veins.

If you’re skeptical, take a look at these testimonials from our satisfied customers who have experienced remarkable results with our Homestead and Chill organic lavender salve. People have found relief from various skin issues, including cystic acne and persistent large rashes that resisted other treatments. I am genuinely delighted and humbled by this positive feedback. It reinforces my commitment to helping individuals lead their most naturally healthy lives—this is the very reason I started this journey!

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the process of making your very own lavender salve! Here’s a simple guide to creating a soothing, effective salve at home.

HOMEMADE LAVENDER SALVE RECIPE

INGREDIENTS FOR LAVENDER SALVE

Lavender-Infused Oil: 1 cup (8 ounces)

  • OR 1 cup of your preferred carrier oil (like jojoba, olive, sweet almond, sunflower, or coconut oil) with additional lavender essential oils. To help you choose, check out our article on lavender oils, which details the unique benefits of various carrier oils.

Beeswax Pastilles: 3 to 4 tablespoons (approximately 1 ounce if using shaved, block, or other forms of beeswax)

  • Note: If you decide to add shea butter, you can use only 3 level tablespoons of beeswax. If you skip the shea butter, use 4 tablespoons of beeswax.
  • Vegan Alternatives: Consider soy wax or candelilla wax.

Lavender Essential Oils (EOs):

  • When using lavender-infused oil as your base, add about 20-25 drops of organic lavender essential oil per cup of oil for a delightful scent that isn’t overpowering.
  • If you’re using only essential oils, you can add up to 12 drops of lavender EOs per fluid ounce of carrier oil (up to 96 drops per cup). This is the maximum recommended amount based on a safe dilution ratio of 2%. It’s best to start with half that amount and adjust according to your scent preference.

Optional Ingredients:

  • Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: 2 tablespoons
    • This adds rich moisture and essential nutrients to your salve.
  • Other Essential Oils: Add a few drops of complementary essential oils, such as chamomile, rose, pink grapefruit, lemon, rosemary, sweet orange, ylang ylang, bergamot, geranium, or sandalwood. Experiment with different blends to create a custom scent, each with its unique benefits.

    These ingredients come together to create a soothing and healing lavender salve perfect for various skin needs!

    Other Supplies Needed

    Double Boiler:

    • You can use a traditional double boiler or create a makeshift version. For example, place a smaller pot or a glass Pyrex or stainless steel bowl on top of a saucepan filled with water.
    • Using a double boiler is crucial to prevent overheating the volatile lavender essential oils, which can diminish their healing properties.

    Storage Containers:

    • Small glass jars or salve tins are needed for storing your finished product.
    • Common choices include 2-ounce amber glass jars for personal use or gifts, and larger 4-ounce jars. For easy shipping, consider using 2-ounce salve tins.

      Recipe Yield

      • The quantities provided will yield just over 1 cup of finished salve (approximately 10 ounces, or five 2-ounce tins).
      • Feel free to scale the recipe up or down as needed. A general guideline for salve is to use about 1 part beeswax/butter to approximately 4-7 parts oil. A higher beeswax-to-oil ratio results in a firmer salve, while using less beeswax creates a softer consistency.

      Note on Quality Ingredients

      • When making salve, herbal oils, or other homemade body care products, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. Opting for certified organic options is even better.
      • Aim to create a healing medicinal product. For instance, use virgin, unrefined, cold-pressed oils whenever possible. Avoid lesser-quality oils that are extracted with solvents, which can introduce contaminants like hexane—known to be a neurological toxin.
      • Be cautious with non-organic essential oils; as the natural oils in the plant become concentrated in essential oils, so do any pesticides or contaminants present on the plant.

      Using high-quality, organic ingredients ensures that your lavender salve is not only effective but also safe for your skin. Enjoy the process of creating a natural remedy that promotes healing and well-being!

      INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING LAVENDER SALVE

      Prepare Storage Containers:

      • Have your salve tins, glass jars, or any storage containers ready for the lavender salve.

      Set Up Double Boiler:

      • In the top portion of a double boiler (or a makeshift double boiler), combine 1 cup of lavender-infused oil (or your chosen carrier oil) and 3 to 4 level tablespoons of beeswax (refer to the sliding scale notes above).
      • If you’re using it, also add 2 tablespoons of shea butter at this point.

      Add Water:

      • Fill the bottom portion of the double boiler with enough water so that the top bowl or pot is resting in the water. This helps create a gentle heat for melting.

      Heat the Mixture:

      • Place the double boiler on the stovetop and heat it over medium-low heat. It’s important to avoid overheating the lavender oil more than necessary to melt the beeswax.

      Melt and Combine:

      • Monitor the mixture closely and stir it routinely until the beeswax (and shea butter, if added) is completely melted. Once fully melted, stir to combine thoroughly.

      Remove from Heat:

      • Immediately take the mixture off the heat once everything is melted and well combined.

      Add Essential Oils:

      • After removing the salve from heat, add the lavender essential oils. Essential oils are volatile and dissipate quickly when exposed to high temperatures, so it’s important to add them at this stage. Whisk the mixture to ensure even distribution.

      Pour into Containers:

      • While the mixture is still hot, carefully pour the liquid lavender salve into your prepared containers. If it starts to solidify while you’re filling the containers, place it back on medium-low heat until it liquifies again.

      Cool and Harden:

      • Set the filled lavender salve containers aside with the lids off, allowing them to fully cool and harden.

      Enjoy Your Salve:

        • Once cooled and set, enjoy your homemade lavender salve for healthy, moisturized skin! Use clean fingers or a salve spoon to collect a small amount and apply as needed. Remember, a little goes a long way!

        Feel free to customize your salve with different essential oils or carrier oils to suit your personal preferences. Happy crafting!

        CONCLUSION

        I hope you’re feeling inspired and ready to create your own healing homemade lavender salve! It’s a personal favorite of ours and makes for a thoughtful gift for loved ones, whether for a special occasion or just because. For storage, keep your salve containers in a cool, dark place. I like to keep one accessible for daily use while storing the others in a cabinet. Homemade lavender salve can last for several years, although its medicinal potency may gradually diminish over time. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below! And once you’ve made your own, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to share this post with others. Thank you for reading!

        20 BEST COMFORT SANDALS FOR WOMEN THAT PROVIDE GREAT STEPS

        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!