With summer right around the corner, sandals are a must-have for any wardrobe. But not all sandals are created equal: Whether you want to wear them with breezy shorts for running errands or dress up a floral sundress for an afternoon tea party, your shoes should support your feet in the best way possible. We turned to experts to find the best sandals for women that tick all of the boxes in terms of comfort, style and practicality.
When shopping for comfortable sandals, look for a shoe that provides arch support and has a contoured footbed. This ensures the shoe fits your foot perfectly, alleviating pressure points and reducing discomfort throughout the day. Also, choose a sandal with straps that are adjustable so that they don’t rub and chafe your feet.
Another important feature to look for is shock absorption, says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera of City Podiatry in New York. “When you walk, your foot absorbs the shock of gravity pulling down on it and your weight pushing down through the ground,” she explains. “That creates a lot of stress on your feet and joints.”
She recommends looking for sandals that have thicker straps to keep the shoes secure, as this can help reduce movement in the shoe, which reduces strain on the muscles of your legs and back. Also, choose a sandal with a moderate heel-to-toe drop, as this can also improve stability.
If you’re looking for a stylish, yet still supportive sandal, these wedges from Naot are a good option. They have a heel that’s only two inches high, so they won’t cause your ankles and back to feel too strained. The cork and latex footbeds are also designed to conform to your foot, so you won’t get blisters or uncomfortable rubbing.
The perfect everyday sandal, these espadrilles from Arcopedico are both functional and super chic. The supple leather molds to your feet, and the padded soles are a great way to cushion your heels. Plus, the woven design is durable enough to keep them from getting wet while you’re walking in the rain or pool.
A classic, these Birkenstocks are the kind of sandals that seem to be everywhere once the weather gets warmer. They come in a range of colors, including black, so you can find one that matches your outfit and look. Plus, they have a slightly textured sole for better traction on slippery surfaces and the criss-cross straps will keep your feet from sliding around while you walk.
A must-have for beachgoers, these flip flops are stylish and comfortable. They have soft, non-chafing faux leather straps that won’t irritate your skin, and the footbeds are made with yoga mats for a bouncy feeling. They’re also lightweight, ensuring your feet won’t be tired out by the end of a long beach day. sandals for women