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As much as we love our boots and sneakers, it’s easy to appreciate sandal weather and the cute summer sandals options that come with it. There’s nothing like shedding the socks, getting a fresh pedicure (or slathering on your best foot cream) and donning some of the most comfortable sandals for walking just about anywhere during the warm weather season.
The one wrench in this warm weather fantasy is the pain that can accompany summer footwear. “A sandal is the least supportive shoe because there is little material to it,” says Dr. Glenn Davison, owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York City and New Jersey and a fellow in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. “There is very little to no hold in a sandal, so if you’re moving at a quick pace or walking on an uneven surface, it’s easy to slide and pull a tendon or sprain an ankle.”
For these reasons, he explains, sandals can be particularly problematic for patients seeking shoes for flat feet, shoes for plantar fasciitis, shoes for bunions, or walking shoes for high arches.
Dr. Davison is a realist, however, and doesn’t expect his patients to skip sandals altogether in favor of the most comfortable women’s shoes like workout sneakers. “There’s nothing wrong with being style conscious; just give thought to how long you’re wearing certain sandals and how much you’re doing in them.”
There are also plenty of styles that promote good foot health, making them some of the most comfortable sandals that are ideal for walking and other activities. Below are the 20 most comfortable walking sandals for women that promote the best foot health, according to Dr. Davison and glowing customer reviews. After all, summertime is about being relaxed and comfortable. Featuring the best travel sandals for vacations, these are the perfect starting off point for your search for supportive warm weather footwear.
The Best and Most Comfortable Walking Sandals of 2023
Crocs Women’s Brooklyn Low Wedge Sandals
Most Comfortable Wedge Sandals for Walking
- Size Range: 4 to 11
- Materials: Croslite foundation; Matlite uppers
- Key Features: LiteRide foam technology; flexible upper
- Colors Available: Black/Black, Black/Mushroom, Khaki/Bone
Crocs is beloved for its lightweight clogs, but the brand has more to offer: The Brooklyn Low Wedge Sandals feature the same materials as their popular classic clogs, but in a comfortable wedge sandal. The 1.7-inch platform heel is tall enough to give you some height without causing you to roll your ankle. Adjustable heel straps and the flexible upper ensure a snug, comfortable fit.
What reviewers say: “I love these sandals. They are both cute and very comfortable. The first time I wore them they just conformed to my feet. My ankles and feet get swollen sometimes by late day but the sandals were still comfortable. I didn’t have to change into slides.”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Crocs
Adidas Adilette Comfort Slide Sandals
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Materials: Textile lining; synthetic upper
- Key Features: Contoured footbed
- Colors Available: 23 solid and patterned colorways
Adidas’ Adilette slides are among the most popular Adidas walking shoes for warm days. The Adilette Comfort Slides feature lightweight cushioning and a contoured footbed for a supportive feel underfoot. The single foot strap makes it simple to slide on and off, but because the style lacks a heel strap it’s best for casual strolls versus long walks. The style comes in 23 colorways ranging from minimalistic designs to splashy patterns.
What reviewers say: “Super soft and cute color. Would recommend to anyone. My feet feel good even after walking in them all day.”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Adidas
Related:
Adidas Launches Adilette Premium Slides
Adidas Releases New Adilette Colorways
Oofos Ooahh Recovery Slide Sandals
Best Recovery Sandals for Walking
- Size Range: 5 to 16
- Materials: Closed cell foam
- Key Features: Highly shock absorbent; patented footbed; machine washable
- Colors Available: Black, Navy, Slate, Nomad, Mauve, Sage, and Mars Red
If you’re always lacing up your long-distance running shoes to clock miles, then you need a pair of Oofos Ooahh Recovery Sandals. The shoes facilitate quick recovery after intense workouts with a proprietary footbed that delivers big on comfort and absorbs 37 percent more impact than traditional footwear. The arch supportive shoe reduces stress on your joints, making them an excellent option for those looking for shoes for back pain or shoes for knee pain. Expect less post-run muscle tightness and soreness, and relief from heel pain — they’re a great sandal for plantar fasciitis, too.
What reviewers say: “Oofos are the best purchase I’ve ever made for my feet. They are super comfortable and it’s like walking on a cloud. Gives my lower back relief and my feet are happy. They are so comfortable that I have 2 pairs in different styles.”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Amazon
Chaco Z1 Classic Sandals
Most Comfortable Hiking Sandals
- Size Range: 5 to 12
- Materials: Polyurethane and polyester jacquard webbing
- Key Features: Available in two widths
- Colors Available: 43 colorways
Chaco sandals will give you years of comfortable wear — the fully waterproof shoes are made with ultra-durable polyurethane. The straps are fully adjustable for a customized fit; each strap can be loosened and tightened just to your liking. They’re a great choice for hiking, as the lug outsole ensures solid grip on mossy, muddy, or rocky surfaces. With a dual-density midsole and solid arch support, you’ll be on solid footing wherever you wear them.
What reviewers say: “I’ve owned Chaco’s sandals before & have always been happy with the long lasting, sturdy build quality & dependable sizing. This version doesn’t disappoint and fit me perfectly right out of the box. If you’re looking for a well designed, no nonsense sandal, which will see you through rainstorms, long country hikes, and city walks, this is a great choice.”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Amazon
Related:
Best Hiking Sandals
The Best Hiking Boots for Women
The Best Trail Running Shoes
The Best Climbing Shoes
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Fisherman Platform Sandals
Most Stylish Walking Sandals
- Size Range: 5 to 12
- Materials: Leather upper; synthetic sole
- Key Features: Lugged platform sole,
- Colors Available: Black leather
Seen on the feet of stars like Miley Cyrus, Gigi Hadid, and Katie Holmes, Vagabond Shoemakers’ styles are celebrity-approved. The Cosmo 2.0 Fisherman Platform shoes are cute, comfortable sandals that are highly on trend — fisherman-style sandals were a popular street style choice during the fall 2023 fashion week rounds. The basket-woven upper on this pair are pure leather, so they’ll mold to your feet the more you wear them for max comfort. The lugged platform sole gives you a little lift without putting pressure on the front of your feet — they’re a great pair of comfortable women’s dress shoes for warm days.
What reviewers say: “Cute and comfortable — no breaking in needed. This is my second pair of Vagabonds and I see more in my future.”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Nordstrom
Merrell Women’s Alpine Cush Wrap Sandals
Most Comfortable Sandals for Bunions
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Materials: EVA midsole; recycled rubber outsole; microfiber lining
- Key Features:
- Colors Available: Burgundy, Lichen, Black
If you struggle finding a pair of shoes for bunions, consider the Merrell Women’s Alpine Cush Wrap Sandals. These feature a microfiber-lined, stretchy straps that hold your feet in place without squeezing or irritating bunions. The comfortable walking sandals are ideal for long-distances; just like the best long-distance running shoes, these Merrell’s go the extra distance with substantial arch support and cushioning. They run big, so consider sizing down if you’re between sizes.
What reviewers say: “Very happy with this purchase! Broke both of my feet a few years ago and even orthopedic sandals were uncomfortable. Bought these on a whim and am so glad I did. I do wish the strap tightened more but am mostly happy with them. So comfortable!”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Merrell
Skechers Bobs Pop Ups 3.0 Sandals
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Materials: Plush foam; woven strap upper
- Key Features: Machine washable; vegan
- Colors Available: Black, Rose, Lilac, Mint, Nude
The Skechers Bobs Pop Up 3.0 Sandals are a top orthopedic sandal for those who require extra comfort and support from their shoes. The soles are made of a proprietary memory foam material that molds to your feet while supporting them — they’re an extra comfortable choice for those with common foot problems like plantar fasciitis, or those looking for shoes for heel spurs. You can choose between five pretty colorways; each has adjustable straps for a custom fit.
CREDIT: Courtesy of Skechers
Tory Burch Crisscross Strap Bubble Jelly Sandals
- Size Range: 4 to 13
- Materials: Rubber sole; synthetic upper
- Key Features: Air bubble sole; waterproof
- Colors Available: Lime Sherbert, Squash/Bright Lagoon; Dark Lotus/Ruby; New Ivory
Jelly sandals are trending, but if you’re not ready to go full ’80s with a basket-woven pair, try these elevated Crisscross Strap Bubble Jelly Sandals by Tory Burch. They feature an air bubble sole for a cushioned feel underfoot (and jelly flair), plus heel straps to secure your feet in place while you’re on the go. The lightweight, secure shoes are a nice choice for travel sandals, as they’re functional enough for the beach or pool, and cute enough to wear out to lunch.
What reviewers say: “These are super comfortable, and the strap helps keep the shoe on, making walking that much more comfortable. Wore these on a recent vacation and did a lot of walking. My feet didn’t hurt once! Super cute for the pool, but I wore them everywhere.”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Tory Burch
LifeStride Zing Sandals
Most Comfortable Summer Walking Sandals
- Size Range: 6 to 11 (varies depending on color)
- Materials: Fabric upper with a man-made sole
- Key Features: Soft System® comfort package and Velocity 2.0® comfort offer support, flex and cushioning with shock absorption and pressure distribution
- Colors Available: Black, Navy and Red
A traction sole provides you with extra stability that allows for an ease of moment, in a vintage-inspired shape and style from Lifestride. If you’re looking for a shoe that channels both Rita Hayworth and Lauren Bacall, but doesn’t cause blisters as a result, these will become your go-to walking sandals. In three classic and versatile colorways, you’ll find a pair to compliment any swimsuit combination you have.
What reviewers say: “I wear 8M or 8.5M. I ordered an 8 in this shoe and it fits perfectly. I am SO pleased with the style. Beautifully fashion-forward and super comfortable!”
CREDIT: courtesy of Zappos
Cole Haan Mojave Slide Sandals
Most Comfortable Walking Slide Sandals
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Materials: Leather upper/synthetic lining/rubber sole
- Key Features: A modest platform and grippy sole allows for comfort without sacrificing style
- Colors Available: Ivory and Black
A buttery leather upper and a contoured footbed allow for all day comfort from the coffeeshop to beach bar hopping in these Cole Haan stunners. If you’re looking to jump into a Y2K-inspired trend without going all the way back to middle school, these shoes — with a woven upper — add a nice bohemian touch to a simple outfit. Available in black and a fresh ivory, you have endless styling options for any summer outfit.
What reviewers say: “I bought these in white and it’s like walking on clouds. It seems like it’s a little wider than other sandals, but I think that’s what makes it very comfortable. I could wear them running errands and walking all day.”
CREDIT: courtesy of Nordstrom
Hush Puppies Sunshine Sandals
Most Comfortable Summer Slippers
- Size Range: 6 to 11 (varies depending on color)
- Materials: Fabric upper with memory foam footbed
- Key Features: Bounce footbed and memory foam allows cushy comfort all day
- Colors Available: Black, Green, Turquoise, Fuschia, Orange and Cream
Made from flexible materials that deliver ultra-lightweight feel with a memory foam footbed, these Hush Puppies truly embody their name in poppy, freshy colors guaranteed to draw compliments and stares, whether you chose to wear them walking the dog or down the boardwalk, soaking up the rest of summer. Even better, the thick, cross woven straps on these comfortable sandals add an extra level of support for those who want to beat the crowds and walk a little faster.
What reviewers say: “It was love at first sight when I saw this Hush Puppie sandal! The fuchsia color is so bright and the perfect pop of color to my wardrobe. I feel like I am walking on clouds in these sandals. I am so happy with these shoes….now I have to stop myself from buying the other colors!”
CREDIT: courtesy of DSW
Sofft Mirabelle Sandals
- Size Range: 6 to 11
- Materials: Leather upper and footbed with rubber outsole
- Key Features: Lightweight and flexible outsole with soft, breathable leather lining for all day comfort
- Colors Available: Anthracite Grid Metallic, Black, Light Gray, Luggage, Tan Leopard
Made in a variety of fashionable colorways, this comfortable sandal from Sofft is perfect to support all day activities with a flexible and adjustable strap and cushy outsoles. Whether you wear them to a sporting event where you’ll spend all of the game cheering for your team, or to a concert where you don’t plan to stop dancing, the supportive straps keep your feet secure and steady. When the weather starts to cool down, pair them with jeans and a flannel this fall.
What reviewers say: “I bought these sandals about two days before I was set to leave for a 12 day trip to Ireland and Italy. While I didn’t wear them in Ireland (too cold), I wore them extensively throughout Italy, sometimes walking five to six miles a day. These sandals were very comfortable and didn’t cause any aches or pains in my feet or legs. They are very cute as well. I highly recommend these sandals to anyone looking for comfort and style.”
CREDIT: courtesy of Zappos
Eileen Fisher Tarry Toe Loop Espadrille Wedge Slide Sandals
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Materials: Leather upper with synthetic lining and a rubber sole
- Key Features: A jute wrapped wedge in a modest 1 ¾” platform and comfortable, moldable insole
- Colors Available: Latte, Bone, Mango, Black
This espadrille-inspired sandal with a supportive toe loop stays on-trend and offers all day support. The simple toe loop allows for support and comfort with a minimalist design and the platform is just tall enough for a boost in height. Known for her casual, easy and elegant approach to understated minimalism loved by women of all ages, these Eileen Fisher sandals offer a modern twist on a classic summer shoe.
What reviewers say: “I bought the 5.5 and it fits perfectly. The height is just right that is so comfortable I wore it dancing in a very casual setting.”
CREDIT: courtesy of Nordstrom
Dansko Kandi Slide Sandals
- Size Range: 6 to 12 (varies depending on color)
- Materials: Synthetic upper and sole
- Key Features: Adjustable broad straps allow for a customizable fit with cushioning throughout
- Colors Available: Blue, Orange, Black
With ideal amount of cushioning and arch support, along with a shock-absorbing footbed, the Dansko Kandi slide provides great support. These walking sandals come in two electric colors for a fun pop of color to your summer outfits and a classic black pair for the customer who wants the height and comfort sans color. Perfect for a hot girl walk to the bodega or to the bar, the Kandi slide sandal is ready for the girl who won’t let her footwear get in the way of having a good time.
What reviewers say: “This is my first pair of Danskos and I was heavily swayed by the orange — a great color. I expected that they would not be uncomfortable, but I have difficult feet and I didn’t therefore have high high hopes. But they are tremendously comfortable, supportive, and cushiony! I had no idea. Am thinking of buying a second pair so that when these wear out and are no longer on the market, I’ll have them again.”
CREDIT: courtesy of Nordstrom
Dr. Scholl’s Felicity Clog Sandals
Most Comfortable Walking Sandals With Heel
- Size Range: 6 to 11
- Materials: Leather upper/synthetic lining and sole
- Key Features: An faux-wood heel offers lightweight support with faux snake detailing across the front buckle for extra flare; arch support and a cushioned footbed keep you stylish and comfortable all day
- Colors Available: Honey, Dusted Clay, Black
If Y2K-inspired trends feel too close to your days of yore, what about a pair of faux wooden sandals to look just like the disco divas of the 70’s? The Felicity Clog sandal does just that, offering a vintage inspired find without the heartache and dig vintage shopping can bring. Even better? Made with Dr. Scholl’s comfortable support, these clogs are sure to be in your everyday rotation as they become comfier and comfier with each step.
What reviewers say: “Very comfortable and cute sandals. Easy to adjust width. My feet are a little wide and these shoes are perfect.”
CREDIT: courtesy of Nordstrom
Dr. Martens Gryphon Platform Gladiator Sandals
Best Sandals for Walking Long Distances
- Size Range: 6 to 11
- Materials: Leather
- Key Features: A classic heel loop, double button buckle closure and a chunky platform
- Colors Available: Black
Platform sandals and Dr. Martens classic combat boots are both on-trend this season, so it’s the perfect time to add some edge to your summer style with the Gryphon Platform Gladiator Sandals. Using the same ingenious cushioning technology and construction methods the brand is known for, these Dr. Martens sandals will feel like the same comfy, broken in boots you’ve had for years.
What reviewers say: “I can’t stop wearing these, they match with almost everything and are so comfortable ! Took me a couple of wears with thicker socks on to break them in but after about a week they fit like a beautiful platform glove.”
Teva Hurricane XLT 2 Sandals
Best Walking Sandals for Flat Feet
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Materials: 100% recycled plastic using traceable REPREVE® polyester yarn by Unifi®
- Key Features: Contoured footbed adds extra support and comfort, hook and loop closure offers secure and adjustable fit.
- Colors Available: Atmosphere Black/White, Atmosphere Carrot/Blue Mirage, Atmosphere Imperial Palace, Atmosphere Sesame, Black, Blue Multi, Desert Multi, Light Multi, Mirage Multi, Sesame, Sherbert Multi, Teva Textural Sunflower, Vista Blue Indigo
Clunky, retro sandals have been on-trend in fashion as of late, and that’s a good thing for our collective foot health. The Teva Hurricane XLT 2 Sandal accommodates wide feet with its adjustable straps. The chunky outsole is super-cushioned for superior comfort with every step. Moderate arch support is ideal for flat feet, giving them a boost without being uncomfortable. Hop on this trend and your feet will thank you.
What reviewers say: “Really easy to take on and off, my feet didn’t get sweaty while wearing them so there was no slippage as I walked in temps reaching 106. They even cleaned off super easily!”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Nordstrom
Birkenstock Arizona Soft Slide Sandals
Podiatrist-Recommended Sandals for Walking
- Size Range: 5 to 11.5
- Materials: Leather upper and lining/synthetic sole with a cork footbed
- Key Features: Adjustable double straps and moldable footbed for maximum comfort that absorbs shock and mimics the shape of a healthy foot
- Colors Available: Almond Suede, Taupe Suede, Stone Suede
The Birkenstock Arizona Soft slide sandal is a classic style that just happens to be podiatrist-recommended, too. Dr. Davison lauds the brand as one of his favorites for its anatomical footbed. What’s more, ordering Birkenstocks through a podiatrist or custom orthotics lab allows them to create the sandal with an orthotic just for you. If you’re not in need of a custom insole but looking for comfort, test out regular Birkenstocks with their legendary footbed that hugs the foot’s contours and offers superior arch support.
What reviewers say: “I LOVE this shoe! I would highly recommend it. There was no need to break them in because they are already so durable. They go with all my casual wear. I am a 7.5, so I tried on an 8 in stores. The 8 was a tad too big, so I ordered the 7 shipped to my house and they fit like a dream! I plan on having these shoes for years to come!”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Amazon
Ecco Yucatan Sandals
Most Comfortable Sandals for Problem Feet
- Size Range: 5. to 10.5
- Materials: Leather upper, textile lining and a synthetic sole
- Key Features: RECEPTOR® technology provides support and stability throughout the shoe with a rugged outsole to easily transition from street to rougher terrain; fully adjustable hook and loop straps and a cushioned insole offer additional support
- Colors Available: White, Eventide (Blue), Tuscany (Dark Beige)
The rugged sole on Ecco’s Yucatan sandal makes it a perfect pick for long walks across all kinds of terrain. The adjustable hook-and-loop straps ensure the perfect fit, even for wide feet. Ecco’s Receptor technology provides stability and support to minimize impact from every step. The insole is cushioned with arch support, so you can worry about sight-seeing and not foot pain. These come in a variety of colors.
What reviewers say: “They’re comfortable right out of the box, offer great support and adjust three ways for a perfect fit. They’re cute for a “support sandal” and I don’t worry about my feet when I’m wearing them. I can walk all day without pain or blisters. Winner!”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Amazon
Vionic Women’s Rest Tala T-Strap Sandals
Best Walking Sandals for Wide Feet
- Size Range: 5 to 12 US (varies depending on color)
- Materials: Leather Uppers with uncovered EVA
- Key Features: Three-zone comfort allows for essential support to target the heel, footbed and all your foot’s natural curves; T-strap design allows your foot to stay full secure while EVA molds to your foot’s unique shape.
- Colors Available: Seaform, Pale Blush, Cream, Black
The Vionic Rest Tala T-Strap sandal comes in regular and wide fits, and is one of the best walking sandals for wide feet, at least according to hundreds of Amazon reviews. Vionic is a go-to brand for those seeking comfortable sandals and shoes they can walk around in all day. These are no different. They feature a thong strap at front, which is ideal for wide feet, but a sturdy mid and back strap for proper alignment. There’s support at the forefoot, mid-arch and heel for total comfort.
What reviewers say: “Purchased these for my plantar fasciitis. I wanted something that looked pretty and more feminine. I have custom fit orthotics sandals that are really ugly. These are simple classic and won’t wreck my feet.”
CREDIT: Courtesy of Amazon
The Most Comfortable Types of Walking Sandals
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when shopping for walking shoes in the sandal department is opting for plain-old flip flops. According to Dr. Davison, flip flops or thong sandals, which have two straps that connect between the big toe and second toe, are the biggest offenders when it comes to problematic sandals. “With flip-flops, there is nothing in the back,” he explains. “You’re counting on your big toe to grip and hold your foot in place. It’s a shoe that commonly causes people to lose their footing. It’s the least supportive shoe.” For comfortable walking sandals, look to these styles instead:
- Slides: Slides feature straps that go across the shoe. Like a flip-flop, this style is good for wearing around the pool or short distances. Certain versions with arch support and anatomic foot contouring provide better stability for low-impact activities. These cute summer sandals are easy to slip on and wear out to lunch, wear as a pair of travel shoes, or sport when you’re running errands.
- Athletic or sports sandals: Athletic sandals feature several straps and grip the foot the way a sneaker does. Some even have closed toes and are ideal for hiking in warm weather because they offer support while keeping you cool. Hiking sandals and trail sandals are often waterproof, making them ideal for support and breathability when you’re headed to the beach or hitting a trail. These women’s walking sandals with arch support are great options for those seeking sandals for plantar fasciitis and walking shoes for high arches.
- Slingback. Dr. Davison says a slingback, or the back strap in a sandal that helps keep feet in proper position with each step, is essential for a proper walking sandal. “The best sandal will hold the back of the foot like a regular shoe does. This holds the Achilles tendon in proper position and keeps the foot from sliding backwards.” These are some of the best walking sandals for travel, as they allow your feet to breathe while securing them in place.
- Wedge sandal: Wedge sandals can be flip-flop style or slingback style, but they’ll offer the wearer some height. A comfortable wedge sandal features solid base promotes equal weight distribution, so you’re less likely to incur injury with wedges than you would with standard high heels.
- Platform sandals: Similar to wedge sandals, these styles give you height with even weight distribution across your foot. If you’re looking for sandals for bunions that lend a little lift, these are ideal as they add an inch or two without putting pressure on the front of your foot.
- Fisherman sandals: These fashionable comfortable sandals are a good choice for those who want to stay on trend without beating up your feet. The cute basket-weave upper is a style statement in and of itself, and you don’t have to worry about a pedicure, as they cover your toes. You can shop this style in a few different materials — leather is best as it’ll stretch and mold to your feet.
- Recovery sandals: These sandals are designed for post-workout relief. Like a cushioned running shoe, they feature a high stack that absorbs impact, offsetting pressure that would otherwise inflame your joints. While you can shop lots of men’s recovery sandals, women can shop options from leading brands like Oofos.
The Best Comfortable Walking Shoes for Different Foot Concerns
Sandal shopping, Dr. Davison says, shouldn’t be different than browsing for any other type of shoes, whether it’s the best walking shoes for women, slip-on sneakers, comfortable flats for women, or loafers for women. “It all comes down to being supported and preventing your arch from being strained, dropping and excessively pronating, which leads to pulling muscles and joints out of alignment,” he adds. If you’re dealing with existing foot concerns, keep these tips in mind.
- Comfortable walking sandals for bunions: For those suffering from bunions, pick walking sandals with straps that don’t rub against the aggravated area. For this group of sandal lovers, an orthopedic shoe is worth a try for running errands, but look for a sportier sandal if you need shoes for standing all day or walking long distances.
- Comfortable walking sandals for high arches: Completely flat surfaces are to be avoided, as they’re “exactly like walking barefoot,” Dr. Davison says. Seek out options that have features similar to the best stability running shoes to help prevent consistent overpronation. Brands like Birkenstock or Chaco have plenty of options with contoured, supportive foot beds that make great walking shoes for high arches.
- Comfortable walking sandals for flat feet: The best shoes for flat feet have a little extra width to accommodate the entirety of your sole. Similar to walking shoes for high arches, those with flat feet should seek out shoes with a contoured footbed and visible arch support.
- Comfortable walking sandals for plantar fasciitis: Recovery sandals are a nice everyday, around-the-house option for those seeking to manage existing plantar fasciitis pain. For longer walks, look for sandals that feature substantial arch support and cushioning.
- Comfortable walking sandals for wide feet: The number one consideration for those shopping for shoes for wide feet is choosing a shoe that doesn’t pitch or rub against your foot throughout the day. Seek out options that have a wide toe box and flexible upper. Vagabond Shoemakers creates shoes in various styles that accommodate wide feet.
- Comfortable walking sandals for heel spurs: A minor heel-to-toe drop is a key feature to look for when you’re shopping for shoes for heel spurs. This offsets the pressure from the back of your foot, freeing up your heel without rubbing against it. Wedge sandals are a great choice.
When to Replace Your Comfortable Walking Sandals
Similar to comfortable sneakers for women, walking sandals need replacing on a regular basis to ensure your feet get the support they need. Even the best sandals for walking long distances are prone to wear and tear over time. Brands like Chaco create shoes with ultra-durable materials — these can last you up to five years. Sandals made of rubber or polyurethane may begin to lose their integrity after two seasons. If you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your walking sandals, inspect the insole and the outsole — if they’re compressed or have lost their traction, it’s time for a new pair.
How We Chose the Best Comfortable Walking Sandals
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. To select the best comfortable sandals for walking, we interviewed a top podiatrist for key tips, takeaways, and product selections. We scoured the sandal market to narrow down the best options for different foot types, foot concerns, and occasions.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Glenn Davison is the owner of Advanced Podiatry in New York City and New Jersey. He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Dr. Davison has published numerous articles on foot health related topics in scientific journals and authored a chapter in the wound care text book, Modern Wound Management. In addition, he has published articles in local newspapers, provided various television and radio interviews, and often lectures to the medical community.
Meet the Authors
Ashley Davis is a New-York based writer that reports on fashion, shopping, art, wellness, weddings, and travel to media sources including New York Observer, Wallpaper, Artsy, The Adventurine, PureWow, and Fashion Unfiltered. Davis wrote the original version of this best comfortable walking sandal story in 2021, interviewing experts, evaluating the best options for this list, and offering expert-backed shopping advice.
Fernando Snellings is a Washington, DC-based freelance writer, focusing on lifestyle and fashion. Snellings contributed to the 2022 update to the original version of this best comfortable walking sandals story, interviewing experts, scouring options, and cross-checking reviews to ensure the top options are on our list.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD. She’s spent over five years researching, reporting on, and writing about the beauty industry for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She’s tested hundreds of products during her time as an editor, so she’s well-versed in selecting the best comfortable sandals for walking. Sullivan contributed to the 2023 story update of this best comfortable walking sandals story with the latest relevant launches, and with additional shopping advice.
