We Just Found the 15 Most Comfortable Platform Sandals to Wear This Summer

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We’ve all had a perfect summer day ruined by a not-so-perfect summer sandal. There you are, soaking up the beautiful sun, out shopping, on a picnic, or at the beach—and suddenly, you realize you’ve walked right into blister territory. Or perhaps those simple flat-soled flip-flops start to feel more like you’re walking directly on the pavement. Luckily, there’s no need to let the struggle get in the way of your fun when there are so many stylish and easy-on-your-feet pairs out there. Opting for a comfortable platform sandal is a great way to get a lot of look while arch support and cushion are easily built into the chunkier soles. Not to mention, if you’re a city dweller like me, the extra height keeps you as far from the sticky city sidewalks as possible.

Dr. Lynn LeBlanc, a podiatrist at Bloomfield Foot Specialists in Bloomfield, CT, offers some valuable advice on your sandal-shopping journey. “I always recommend one that has some midfoot arch support, as they are more stable with reduced risk for injuries such as ankle sprains or plantar fascial strain,” she says, “Also, cushioning is important to allow for shock absorption.” Admittedly, a platform sandal can present its own issues. “While it looks great, [these] can cause some problems as they tend to be rigid and place your weight more on the forefoot and toes… I would recommend one that is not too rigid and [with a] lower heel… You want one that allows a natural heel-to-toe gait.”

All that said, we have some great news for the footwear fans (or indecisive shoppers) among us. Dr. LeBlanc says, “Try not to wear the same shoes or sandals every day; mix up the height and support to keep the muscles balanced.” That’s proof that we need a hearty and healthy variety in our shoe closets if I’ve ever seen it! Now, get ready to shop the best in editor-approved and customer-recommended platform sandals, below—doctor’s orders!

Getaway Platform Flip Flops

There’s a reason Crocs remain the undisputed champion of comfort, and these flip-flops are no exception. Their innovative Free Feel Technology™ means these shoes are practically weightless with tons of cushiony support. With 10 different colors to choose from, you can find a pair to go with every look in your closet.

Sizes: US 4-11

Colors: 10 options

Material: Free Feel Technology™ Upper, Croslite™ footbed

Height: 1.6-inch platform

Customer review: “Love them, they’re super cute and so comfortable. They look like they’re not, but when you put your feet in them it’s like walking on clouds. I have other crocs and these are way softer on the feet. I ordered the black and brown style in a size 9, which is my standard shoe size and they fit perfectly.”

Harrison Platform Slide Sandal

Cushionaire delivers exactly what its name implies: a light-as-air platform atop an ultra-cushioned sole. The minimalist silhouette feels almost futuristic, and since they’re completely waterproof, they make for the perfect pool or spa slide.

Sizes: US 6-11

Colors: 6 options

Material: EVA

Height: 2-inch platform

Customer review: “Absolutely the most comfortable slide I have ever worn. Squishy and soft, no rubbing or slipping. Perfect.”

Blenda Sandals

Swedish brand Vagabond has perfected the art of minimal yet impactful design. The Blenda epitomizes this ethos as it marries a classic fisherman-inspired upper with a modern rounded platform, available in a chic range of neutrals.

Sizes: US 5-11

Colors: Black, Off-White, Brown, Dark Brown

Material: Leather

Height: 1.5-inch platform

ELLE Editor review: “This is my ideal summer sandal—it’s simple but super stylish. The slide means easy on and off for everything from running errands to running on the beach, and the platform keeps my feet far away from the city sidewalks.”—Rosie Jarman, market editor

Platform Slide Sandal

If you’re looking to sport a favorite designer shoe while still maintaining all-day comfort, look no further than these Gucci platform slides. The molded sole and rubber tread will have you on your feet with ease, while the iconic GG motif makes a luxury statement.

Sizes: US 4-12

Colors: Beige “Maxi GG” motif

Material: Textile, leather, rubber

Height: 1.75-inch platform, 2.5-inch heel

Customer review: “My Gucci slides are very comfortable! This is my third pair. I love them!”

Papillio Arizona Platform Sandal

The classic Birkenstock Arizona sandal gets a lift in this platform iteration. It has all the benefits of the tried-and-true Birkenstock footbed and straps, with the added style of a bold platform and metallic buckles.

Sizes: US 5-11.5

Colors: Eucalyptus, Soft Pink

Material: Nubuck leather upper, suede-lined cork footbed, EVA outsole

Height: 1-inch platform

Customer review: “I love everything about these shoes. They are comfortable, stylish and the color is gorgeous. They aren’t clunky like some platform shoes and the platform isn’t very high, which is just fine. The extra added inch is quite nice. I have extremely narrow feet so I use the very last holes in both straps. I think the strap holes and placement of straps would work for not only very narrow feet (like mine), but for other widths as well. To mold them to my feet, I wore them around the house until my feet got tired. The moment I notice my feet were tired, I’d take them off. Each day I could wear them longer. Eventually I forgot about my feet and wore them all day. It’s like having a pair of custom-made shoes!”

Kira Slingback Sport Platform Sandal

Sure to become your next summer staple, these Tory Burch sandals are the perfect blend of sporty and polished. The adjustable straps and contoured footbed give that utilitarian look, while supple leather and gold hardware keeps things chic.

Sizes: US 5-11

Colors: Black, Ivory, Shell Pink

Material: Leather, rubber

Height: 1-inch platform, 1.5-inch heel

Customer review: “Honestly the most comfortable shoe I’ve purchased in a long time. I’m able to pair these with so many outfits. I haven’t touch any other pair of shoes this summer because I’m obsessed. Now if they come out with a brown pair then I would be over the moon!”

GoldenGlow Sandal

UGG has so much more to offer than shearling booties, and the GoldenGlow sandal proves they can’t be counted out from the summer footwear game. Fully adjustable, water-friendly, and boasting a statement platform with a lug sole, these sandals will carry you from the city sidewalk to the desert festival with ease. Not to mention, they’re made with recycled and responsible materials - win-win!

Sizes: US 5-12

Colors: 7 options

Material: Recycled polyester fibers, Sugarcane EVA

Height: 1.75-inch heel

Customer review: “I had foot surgery a few years ago and need a good sturdy sole with being too heavy. I strongly suggest these. Great support not too heavy I ordered true to size 10.

Mevia Flatform Sandal

Is it just us, or are these giving major Dune-meets-Furiosa vibes? Teva’s updated take on the gladiator features five adjustable straps (including a removable ankle strap), making these the ultimate customizable sandals. Sitting atop two inches of a pillowy midsole, you’re ready to dance the night, and day, and night away.

Sizes: US 5-11

Colors: Birch, Acorn, Black

Material: REPREVE® polyester yarn by Unifi®, EVA, rubber

Height: 2-inch platform

Customer review: “I love these sandals so much. Have always been a Teva fan, but this is my first time with platform sandals. SO COMFORTABLE. Recently wore them to a music festival where I was walking and standing for 12+ hours. They were comfortable while still being fashionable. Can’t recommend enough. Straps are all adjustable, fits true to size”

Carmen Flatform Sandals

If you’re looking to invest in a truly unique statement sandal, Amambaih is the brand for you. Designer Mariela Montiel started the line with the goal of celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship found in her native Paraguay, with each pair handcrafted in Spain from fabrics woven by local Paraguayan artisans. The bold combinations of color and sculptural shapes make for an undeniably joyful summer sandal.

Sizes: US 6-11

Colors: Clay, Sand, Ivory-Black, Kaki-Lemon

Material: Fabric upper, leather lining, natural rubber outsole

Height: 3.4-inch platform, 3.8-inch heel

Customer review: “Very comfortable. True to size. Easy to walk in slightly heavy but well made. Cushioned leather and soft fabric so no breaking in needed.”

Slinky30

Is there any sandal more iconic than the Steve Madden Slinky30? With a super-comfy stretch material upper to keep your feet secure, you won’t have to worry about any blisters or rubbing. It’s no wonder these have remained a closet mainstay all these years.

Sizes: US 5-11

Colors: Black, Raffia

Material: Textile upper, Thermoplastic rubber sole

Height: 1.25-inch platform, 2.25-inch heel

Customer review: “Had some of these in the ’90s, and when I saw them I had to have them again. The only difference is I had to order a full size up. Love them”

Joanie IV Y Strap Wedge Sandal

Getting into true wedge territory, this Sorel sandal is built to give you all the height you’re after without sacrificing comfort. The adjustable ankle strap and sturdy platform are sure to keep your feet safe and secure.

Sizes: US 5-12

Colors: Black, Tan, Beige, Green, Yellow

Material: Leather, rubber

Height: 1.5-inch platform, 3-inch heel

Customer review: “These sandals have become my favorite sandal and I buy this style every year! They are so so comfortable. I’ve worn them for work, travel, and just out and about and I’ve never had any pain or problems with these. They are my tried and trues. Not to mention you can style them all ways, formal or casual! Love the wedge platform to give extra height while being super comfortable. I receive compliments every time I wear them. They are the best and I hope Sorel continues to make them each year."

Zoe Platform Slide Sandal

Leave it to Free People, longtime purveyor of all things boho, to perfect the ultimate ’70s-inspired platform slide. From the chunky sole to the wide heel and classic chestnut colorway, this is the perfect shoe for all your groovy summer gatherings.

Sizes: US 6.5-11

Colors: Chestnut, Onyx, Silver Metallic

Material: Leather, synthetic sole

Height: 1.5-inch platform, 4.25-inch heel

Customer review: “So happy to come across these! Beautifully made, so cute on my feet, give me the height yet my feet feel so comfortable!! I bought another pair!”

Platform Chunky High Heeled Sandals

Get ready for your Bratz doll moment. Whether you’re after the perfect party shoe or just serving a look on a casual Saturday outing, these platforms make a daring statement with all the comfort and security of your favorite summer sandals.

Sizes: US 6-11

Colors: 6 options

Material: PU, Thermoplastic rubber

Height: 1.2-inch platform, 4.25-inch heel

Customer review: “I wore these quite a few times before writing this review, bought them specifically for my bridesmaids dress but WOW are these the coziest heels I’ve ever worn.. true to size and very secure around the ankle. Wore them from about 10pm-3am one night… you need these in your closet! I’m buying them in different colors for sure!!!”

Pearlyn Dress Sandal

Nothing says summer quite like a raffia shoe, and this platform pair by Naturalizer gives that extra free-spirited boho twist. The wide straps and block heel provide lots of stability without sacrificing that cute retro look.

Sizes: US 5-12

Colors: 6 options

Material: Leather upper, synthetic sole

Height: 1-inch platform, 3.25-inch heel

Customer review: “Love this shoe! Color is beautiful! Heel feels very stable which is important for me as I broke my leg/ankle in 2020. Feel very comfortable in this heel!”

Colby Triple Buckle High Heel Platform Sandals

Not for the faint of heart, these platforms are the peak of both height and style. But don’t be intimidated—thanks to the additional platform, they have the feel of a 3.5-inch heel while adding a full 5 inches to your stature.

Sizes: US 5-11

Colors: Pale Peanut, Black

Material: Leather upper, rubber sole

Height: 1.5-inch platform, 5-inch heel

Customer review: “I bought the tan pair and they are insanely comfortable! Perfect for spring/summer maxi dress season.”

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