12 Sandals with Arch Support to Keep Your Feet Comfy No Matter How Far You Walk
PureWow Editors select every item that appears on this page,, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story You can learn more about that process here. Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
Read the original article on Purewow.
“Ugly” sandals were all the rage a few years ago, and we admittedly fell in love with their ample arch support and foot-cradling soles. Since then, we can’t bring ourselves to go back to the flimsy flip-flops we used to wear 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 will work for you.
The Best Sandals with Arch Support at a Glance
Meet the Expert
Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM is an NYC-based podiatrist and foot surgeon who specializes in women’s foot care. Dr. Sutera earned her medical degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in Manhattan. She performed her residency at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in Queens, where she served as chief resident.
How I Chose the Best Sandals with Arch Support
I spoke with PureWow editors to get their picks for the best sandals with arch support to round up this comprehensive list of our personal favorites. I also got insight from podiatrists on what to look for when searching for arch support, like midsole cushioning, secure straps and shock absorption, so I could grab options from top brands we know and love.
1. OluKai Kipe'a'Olu
These slip-ons combine comfort, support and style. They're designed to support the arches of your feet and withstand plenty of pavement pounding, thanks to their durable soles. "The footbed is cushy with just the right amount of structure and the leather conforms to your feet over time for even more comfort. I also really appreciate that the bottom soles have enhanced traction so I don't feel unsteady when walking around, no matter whether I'm clambering over rocks on the beach or strolling around NYC," says Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth.They're also water-resistant, but not waterproof, so don't try running into the ocean with these on.
2. Vionic Madera Wedge Sandals
A pair of sandals that have an elevated, everyday look definitely won't collect dust in your closet, especially when they're designed for comfort and support. "I have chronic plantar fasciitis, so sandals with arch support are a must for me. [These are] incredibly comfortable and so supportive with built-in orthotics and a buckle heel strap that keeps your foot in place without digging, pinching or chafing," says Executive Managing Editor, Catrina Yohay. Some reviewers note that the footbed, while supportive, can feel somewhat stiff at first. The two front straps connect to the side paneling to keep your feet secure and the heel strap is adjustable.
3. FitFlop Gen-FF Leather Slides
If Birkenstocks are your jam, these double-buckle sandals will be right up your alley. They're armed with plenty of arch support and an innovative Microwobbleboard midsole which is meant to reduce pressure and impact reduction. "I do a ton of walking in the warm weather and wanted sandals that were cute, comfy and would give me some height....The footbed is on the firmer side to offer plenty of support in the arch area, but molds to the foot with wear. I've walked 20,000 steps in these bad boys with no issues," says Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida. Both buckles have three tightness options and there are rubber pods on the bottoms for added grip and traction.
4. Plaka Sandals
These sandals aren't for the dressiest occasions, but if you're running errands or are traveling and don't want to wear sneakers, these are the ticket, according to VP of Editorial, Candace Davison. "If I'm walking around all day—especially going from the beach to boardwalk or whatever—I'll reach for my Plakas. The straps are adjustable and don't rub your skin raw, no matter how much running around you're doing," she says. The straps are nylon and the braided design adds a cute touch. "My favorite feature, though, is the cushy sole, which provides support and doesn't make my heels ache at the end of the day, as less-supportive sandals tend to do."
5. Reef Cushion Spring Bloom Sandals
Whether you're wearing a sundress or a pair of jean shorts, these versatile sandals will basically go with anything. Not only that, but you'll always be reaching for them because of how comfortable they are to walk in. "I love how comfy Reef sandals are for everyday wear. My faves are these gold ones—[they] have a good amount of arch support and the sole can easily be wiped off if they get sandy or dirty," says Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera.
6. Reef Cushion Rem Hi
I am absolutely in love with these sandals from Reef for a comfy and cute option as the weather warms up. I wore them a ton when I was pregnant last summer because I was in desperate need of extra support and they cradled my arches beautifully. When my feet swell, loosening the straps saves me. They have plenty of color options, but I'm partial to the cute crochet straps. They also have heel cupping, which takes so much pressure off my feet when I'm standing or walking for long periods of time.
7. Sarah Flint Perfect Block Sandal 60
You will not regret spending a little extra dough on these comfortable heels. They have a wider toe box, six millimeters of extra footbed padding and a shaped insole to support the natural arch of your foot. "I love this sandal. It is just the right height: not too high and not too low [and] I love the support in the arches," says one customer. The heel is about two-and-a-half inches tall for an elegant lift in height without feeling like you're going to topple over, and the block heel will help your feet feel stable, too. They're also available in six styles and colors.
8. Sorel Cameron Flatform Mule
I wore these sandals a ton last summer because even though they aren't specifically designed for anatomical arch support, the shape of the sole and the platform keeps my high arches cradled nicely. Also, the double straps across the upper keep them in place very well because of how wide they are, and they don't rub my feet in weird places.
9. Merrell Napa Valley Sling Sandal
If you're only looking for a little bit of arch support, these are a great option. "I have very high arches, but sometimes just want to wear a shoe that has a little bit of support for a less bulky insole and these ones are very comfortable. I wear them for gardening and light errands," customer Angie K. tells PureWow. They have Merrell Air Cushion in the heel to absorb shock from your steps and the outsoles have great traction for outdoor wear.
10. Dr. Scholl's Pisces Slides
Athletic slides aren't typically supportive, but these ones have a sculpted footbed to cradle your arches with EVA cushioning. They have an easy slip-on design and a sturdy construction so they won't wear out quickly like a lot of slides. "Finally, a slide that doesn’t slide off my foot. I have medium/narrow feet and the contour of this sandals footbed and the soft leather upper is just snug enough. I have several colors and wear them all day," says one customer. They're said to be lightweight and flexible with your steps, too. Not to mention, they're super cute for summer.
11. Birkenstock Papillio By Glenda Platform Sandals
Calling all Birkenstocks fans: If you want a pair that offers extra arch support and looks a little dressier than the typical bestsellers, these sandals will deliver. They have a raised toe bar that's made to help your feet utilize the natural gripping motion instead of just staying flat. The footbed is made of renewable cork and designed to lift and support the shape of your feet. Some reviewers note that the shoe isn't very flexible (which is normal for Birkenstocks) and these ones are made for narrow feet, too.
12. Täōs The Show Sandals
You're going to love the plush microfiber footbed of these supportive sandals. They allow your feet to sit comfortably without slipping around. We're in awe of the cushioned footbed, which is made with gel padding to keep your feet cool and supported, while absorbing shock impact. "[They're] the most comfortable sandals I’ve ever owned. The double velcro straps allow for the ultimate adjustment for the [utmost] comfort," says a Täōs customer. They also have flexible, rubber soles that can endure rough or slippery terrain. If that isn't enough to convince you, note that the straps are crafted from imported Italian leather, which makes them look more elevated.
What to Consider When Shopping for Sandals with Arch Support
You'll want to keep in mind a few things when you're shopping for sandals with arch support. First, do you have existing foot issues like bunions, narrow feet, plantar fasciitis or high arches? "Look for a cushioned insole preferably with arch support built in," Dr. Jackie Sutera says. Taking these things into account will help point you in the direction of finding the right shoe. "I speak a lot [about] proper 'foot posture.' We mostly hear about neck and back posture but feet are the foundation of our skeleton and without proper foot gear and support, skeletal pain and injury can occur over time," she says. This means prioritizing supportive footwear is a big part in optimizing your foot health (along with seeing your podiatrist, of course). "When picking shoes, choose styles and brands that offer cushioning, arch support and shock absorption," advises Dr. Sutera. "These good-for-you features are foot and body loving, both short term because they feel good and long term because they help to prevent and treat common foot complaints like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, strained ligaments, ball of foot pain, etc."
When it comes to knowing what to avoid, Dr. Sutera says to steer clear of shoes that are too thin or flat. "These features are sure to cause foot problems over time, even if you don't have issues yet...Poor foot health can lead to inability to walk well and can affect mobility, which in some severe cases becomes chronic and irreversible," she warns.
Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
