The right sandals can add comfort and style to your summer wardrobe, whether you’re going for a stroll in the park or packing for a hiking trip. But not all sandals are created equal, and the best ones for you will be the shoes that feel great on your feet, don’t rub you the wrong way and fit well. “Sandals should have smooth leather, a supportive arch, and straps or hardware that don’t dig into your skin,” says celebrity stylist Tanya Tamburin. Then, “look for sandals that are lightweight by design so you don’t feel weighed down as you walk.”
We surveyed over 500 women to find the best sandals for walking. Here, we share the best sandals for women—from flip flops to strappy styles—that are stylish, comfortable and a great value.
For women looking for a comfy, casual sandal for daily wear, we recommend the Madewell boardwalk slides. The thin, wide straps form a foot-hugging fit and won’t chafe or pinch. Plus, the adjustable bungee cord at the top of the shoe lets you snug things up to your liking. And the cushioned, responsive footbeds hug your arches and absorb shock without feeling too squishy, so they’re ideal for walking long distances or standing for several hours at work or school. These sandals are easy to pack and don’t need a break-in period. And since they only come in whole sizes, consider ordering a half-size up if you have wider feet.
Stylist Ashleigh Ashton loves these sleek Steve Madden sandals with a low block heel because they’re incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them the best sandals for women to wear on vacation. The 1.6 inch heel is high enough for a bit of height, but still feels manageable for all-day walking. And the criss-crossed leather straps keep your feet secure.
These classic Birkenstocks are a great pick for anyone who wants to be both stylish and comfortable. The simple silhouette and neutral colors will go with just about anything in your closet, from sundresses to jeans. And the molded footbeds and ridged rubber soles provide excellent traction for hiking or walking on uneven or rocky terrain.
Unlike most other open sandals (like a slide or thong), the closed-toes of these shoes help prevent common foot problems, such as bunions, hammer toes and pinched nerves, by reducing the amount of pressure on your toes from rubbing against the inside of the shoe. These slip-on sandals are also a breeze to clean and have minimal hardware, so you can just throw them in your bag for a quick wash. And since they’re water-resistant, you can even wear them in the rain. The soft leather material also dries quickly, so they’re ready to go whenever you are. best sandals for women