14 Sandals with Arch Support (That Aren't Birkenstocks)

editor@purewow.com (PureWow)
·5 min read

“Ugly” sandals had a moment a few years ago when they were all the rage at fashion weeks around the globe, and we admittedly fell in love with their ample arch support and foot-cradling soles. But Birkenstocks aren’t for everyone and we can’t just go back to flimsy flip-flops and expect our feet to be OK with it. Luckily, chunky and comfort-first styles are back and better than ever, but you need to find which pair is going to be right for you.

If your goal is comfort, podiatrists recommend leather and suede materials for a breathable feel that's also long-lasting. They also recommend trying shoes on later in the day while your feet are expanded so you can feel how it will fit your foot at its largest. You also want to keep in mind any existing foot issues you may have: Do you have bunions? A narrow shape? Plantar fasciitis? Taking these things into account will help point you in the direction of the right shoe. By the way, if you have any general concerns, you should discuss the best brands and sandal types with a podiatrist. We did some searching and found these 14 sandals with arch support that are just as stylish as they are cushiony.

The Best Sandals With Arch Support At A Glance:

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1. Madewell The Dayna Lugsole Slide

Best Slides

These slides will keep your feet comfortable all day long thanks to the cushy padding that's made to mold to your feet shape. The lug sole is also great for traction and stability for days when you'll be doing a lot of standing or walking.

Buy it ($110)

2. Cole Haan Original Grand Wedge Sandal

Best Low Wedges

The Grandfoam midsole will keep your arches nice and supported during a day out on the town. These wedges have a lightweight rubber heel that's ideal for folks who want a bit of a lift (just over two inches) without sacrificing comfort.

Buy it ($120)

3. Soludos Sanibel Fisherman Sandals

Best Fisherman Sandals

Channel your inner coastal grandma this summer with these adorable platform fisherman sandals. The sole is made of Ortholite padding for heaps of comfort and support while the the upper is leather sourced from a LWG gold-rated tannery so it's super soft and won't dig into your feet.

Buy It ($129)

4. Sarah Flint Perfect Block Sandal 60

Best Block Heels

You will not regret spending a little extra dough on these comfortable heels. They have a wider toe box, Italian silk ties and a cushioned, shaped insole to support the natural arch of your foot. Plus, the gorgeous wisteria print was designed by Sarah Flint herself.

Buy It ($485)

5. Geox Ruched Leather Platform Sandals

Funkiest Sandals

Add some height to your frame with these funky platform sandals. The lightweight EVA outsole will keep your foot cushioned all day long, and the platform—which is just under three inches—makes these babies so easy to walk in. Plus, the double top straps are made of a soft leather for a comfy feel that won't rub your feet raw.

Buy It ($160)

6. Zappos Sorel Cameron Flatform Mule

Best Mules

We're a sucker for a cute set of mules (especially sandals) and these are primed and ready to be our go-tos for this summer. The arch support comes from the padded insole, and the platform reaches just over two inches.

Buy It ($120)

7. VINCE Carver Sport Sandal

Best Sporty Sandals

The extra-comfy insole is supported by a rugged outsole that can take on hours of neighborhood strolls, while the embroidered leather upper adjusts to your foot for a custom fit.

Buy It ($225; $100)

8. UGG Emily Platform Slide Sandal

Best On-the-Go Sandals

If you live in UGG boots all winter, try these cushioned slide sandals for summer. The backless design makes them ideal for running quick errands without compromising comfort or style.

$100; $55 at Amazon

9. Sam Edelman Annalise Platform Sandal

Best Low Platform Sandals

Sporty, feminine and trendy, all at the same time. These heel-strap sandals feature a cushy platform for all-day comfort.

Buy It ($140; $60)

10. Sorel Kinetic Sandal

Edgiest Sandals

Anatomically contoured to match the natural arch of the foot, these platform sandals also come with PU-like EVA footbed cushioning, which will add a welcome spring to your step and all-day support

Buy It ($130)

11. Dr. Martens Myles Slide Sandal

Best '90s-Inspired Sandals

Consider these sandals the summertime version of the OG Dr. Martens boots, with the same lug-soled, ‘90s grunge glory.

Buy It ($120)

12. Merrell Napa Valley Slingback Sandal

Best Slingback Sandals

Merrell makes some of the most rugged hiking boots on the market, so we were honestly shocked that these sandals are so stylish. They feature a contoured footbed with all the comfort you’d expect from a performance shoe.

Buy It ($80)

13. Dear Frances Tye Slide

Most Splurge-Worthy Sandals

Handmade in Italy, these luxe, knotted slides feature 100 percent real, buttery leather that molds to your feet with every wear. Yeah, they’re totally worth the splurge.

Buy It ($425)

14. Dr. Scholl's Pisces Slide Sandal

Best Slip-Ons

Athletic slides aren't typically supportive, but these ones have a sculpted footbed to cradle your arches with EVA cushioning. Plus, they're super cute for summer.

Buy It ($50; $35)

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