The Most Comfortable Pairs of Walking Sandals for Women to Shop Now

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We're big believers in function over form, especially when it comes to our footwear. That's why we love comfortable walking sneakers and comfortable women's dress for standing all day. As soon as the temperatures start to rise, though, we can't help but dream of pedicures and cute sandals to show them off. While we may swoon over strappy heels and flats, at the end of the day, we're suckers for the most comfortable walking sandals for women. But what makes a pair of sandals so comfortable?

According to Central Park SOLE board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, Dr. Brad Schaeffer, star of TLC’s My Feet Are Killing Me, it all boils down to support. “When I look for a comfortable sandal for myself and patients, I always look for something with arch support,” he says. “If we are supported with our feet then our whole body will be comfortable and feeling great.” In addition to adequate arch support, Schaeffer recommends silhouettes that aren’t too loose. “This can cause our foot and ankle to be compromised,” he warns.

With help from Schaeffer and other experts, we're sharing the most comfortable women's sandals fit for long strolls. For more of the comfiest shoes on the market, check out our articles on the best cloud slides, the best shoes for bunions, and the most comfortable heels for women.

Women's On-the-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal

Whether you love the convenience of a velcro sandal, prefer sandals with back straps, or are specifically looking for something that works well for water-based adventures, the Skechers Women's On-the-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal is just waiting to be discovered. Designed with cushioned and contoured rubber soles and soft, heathered uppers, these sandals feel supportive and secure with every step—so it's no surprise they've earned over 21,000 5-star ratings.

"It’s rare that you find a sandal that fits good and feels comfortable from the very moment you put it on. It’s light weight and durable. This is my second pair and I love them. On my last trip, I walked miles on different terrain and they performed great," writes one Amazon reviewer.

Sizes: 5-12; standard and wide widths | Colors: 11 | Material: Synthetic uppers with rubber soles | Style: Sport sandal | Closure: Hook-and-loop

Women's Breeze Sea Flip-Flop

When over 72,000 shoppers award a shoe a 5-star review, you know it must be worth the hype. That's exactly the case when it comes to the Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops. Schaeffer is a fan of Clarks sandals, largely because they fall into the Cloudstepper category for the brand, which unites versatile style with EVA soles and CushionSoft technology for all-day shock absorption, arch support, and overall comfort.

"These flip-flops are great. They can be dressed up or down & come in a variety of colors. They have great arch support & my feet never got tired from a lot of walking. The part that goes over the upper part of the foot is adjustable for added comfort," writes one Amazon reviewer.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 30+ | Material: Rubber soles with synthetic uppers | Style: Flip-flop | Closure: Slip-on

Women's Midform Universal Sandal

Teva Universal Sandals are another silhouette that has withstood the test of time. Updated for modern-day, this pair has a slightly stacked sole, which López especially loves.

“Teva sandals might not be your first choice for a fashion sandal but they have really revamped their options over the past few years and these are like walking on a cloud,” she says. “I love the midform for a little more platform but if you want something slim and chic, go for the Universal Slim. These are great if you’re in nature because they’re waterproof and easy to pack and clean.”

Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 36 | Material: Rubber soles with polyester uppers | Style: Strappy midsole sandal | Closure: Hook-and-loop

Arizona Soft Footbed

Birkenstock Arizona sandals have been around for decades, but the soft footbed, big buckle iteration debuted more recently and gained cult favorite status in 2023. Unlike the OG Birks, the Soft Footbed style takes less time (just a few wears) to break in, making them ideal for anyone with sensitive feet.

Every woman in my family has been obsessed with Birks for years, but as someone with sensitive feet, this editor could never muster the break-in period. Then I discovered the Soft Footbeds in spring 2023 and promptly bought four pairs. They're my favorite sandals in my closet.

“I have been a Birkenstock girl since the ‘90s and the Arizona style will always be my favorite,” NYC-based fashion stylist Audree Kate López tells Woman's Day. “I love the newer designs with the big buckle. I think the leather options look really nice and can easily be dressed up with a summer dress or skirt but also worn day to day with shorts or jeans.”

Sizes: 5-11.5; narrow and regular widths | Colors: 3 | Material: Cork soles with leather uppers | Style: Slide | Closure: Slip-on with buckles

Flip Flop Sandals

Looking for a classic flip-flop with an updated silhouette that honors the need for arch support? Look no further than the Archies flip flop sandals.

“I love that Archies sandals are available in a variety of colors to match any outfit, and offer arch support of up to 2.2 cm to promote optimal foot posture—thus improving whole body alignment,” London-based podiatrist Marion Yau (a.k.a. Miss Foot Fixer) tells Woman's Day. “Archies sandals mold to the foot over time, making them even more comfortable to wear.”

Another thing she loves about these flip-flops? They don’t feature the traditional flip-flop plug that’s typically threaded through the sole of the shoe. Knowing that those tend to break over time, Yau says that the Archies flip flops are a better, more durable option.

Sizes: 5-16 | Colors: 14 | Material: Closed-cell foam | Style: Flip flops | Closure: Slip-on

Honolulu EVA

If you love the supportive feel of Birkenstocks and want to enjoy it no matter the weather or activity, the Honolulu EVA is the way to go. According to Yau, these sandals, like the Archies flip-flops, work especially well for people with plantar fasciitis because they have a unique footbed designed to relieve arch pain and sole issues overall.

"I bought these for a beach vacation and they are just the job! The 'plastic' material is perfect for in and out of the pool, and they do not spoil as my beloved cork Birkies do. The fit is good and comfortable as with all Birks, just what I needed. My only small complaint is they are a bit noisy, with some flapping and squelching noises because of the material," writes one reviewer.

Sizes: 4-12.5 | Colors: 3 | Material: EVA | Style: Structured thong sandal | Closure: Slip-On

Women's Trulie Sandal

For a less casual, more versatile walking sandal, check out the Taos women's Trulie sandal. Designed with adjustable velcro straps, as well as arch and metatarsal support, these sandals are about as comfortable and tailorable as it gets.

"These are really cute and you can wear them with dresses or pants. I love that each strap is adjustable so they fit perfectly. The arch support makes them very comfortable. They are worth the money. I have a closet full of less expensive shoes that are painful to wear so Taos are all I will buy now," writes one Amazon reviewer.

Sizes: 5-12.5; standard and wide widths | Colors: 22 | Material: Cork and rubber sole with leather uppers | Style: Strappy sandal | Closure: Hook-and-loop

Ohana Flip Flop

If you adore flip-flops and want to invest in a pair that will not only last for years but give your feet the TLC they deserve in the process, it's time to explore the OluKai Ohana Flip Flops. One of Schaeffer's go-tos, these flip-flops feature molded anatomical midsoles with a drop-in footbed that promotes the natural alignment of the foot. Long story short, they're comfy as heck.

"I have plantar fasciitis, and can wear these all day at a theme park or shopping the magnificent mile with no pain! I own 3 pairs and recommend them to everyone," writes one Nordstrom reviewer, who calls these the "best flip flops ever."

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 23 | Material: Rubber soles with synthetic leather uppers | Style: Flip-flop | Closure: Slip-on

Lulu

López says that FitFlop is one of her go-to brands for comfortable shoes as a whole, not just sandals. Her favorites are the F-Mode Luxe Leather Flatform Toe-Post Sandals ($130), but the Lulu pair is another great option under $100. They feature the brand's beloved Microwobbleboard™ midsoles, which evenly disperse weight and offer moderate arch support for all-day wear.

"I have very high arches, plantar fasciitis, and Morton Neuroma in my feet and these shoes make me swoon. These are the only shoes that do not cause pain in my feet. I love them!" writes one 5-star reviewer.

Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 7 | Material: Rubber soles and synthetic uppers | Style: Wedge flip-flop | Closure: Slip-on

Breeze Slide Sandal

If you love slip-on sandals but are hoping for something a bit dressier, the Kuru Breeze Slide Sandals are worth investing in. “The Kuru Breeze is almost a podiatrist's dream, except it doesn't have a back strap,” Yau says.

“The luxury material complements a dressed-up look in different colors. There's built-in heel support and arch support, they’re made with breathable leather, and have cushioned outsole pods.”

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 5 | Material: Rubber soles with a sheepskin footbed and leather uppers | Style: Slide | Closure: Slip-on

Jamie Adjustable Strap Sandal

López applauds the all-day comfort that Vionic offers in its shoes. The Vionic Jamie Adjustable Strap Sandal is a fan favorite for its trendy lug sole and open-toe, Mary Jane-inspired silhouette. If you prefer thicker ankle straps and buckles, López recommends the Vionic Torrance Platform Lug Sandal. Whichever you choose, you can expect the brand's exclusive, bio-mechanically-engineered footbed designed with optimal arch support, stability, flexibility, and full-foot cushioning.

Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 2 | Material: Rubber sole with leather uppers | Style: Buckled sandal | Closure: Adjustable buckle

Ora Recovery Slide 3

Whether you're walking out of the gym, around your house or yard, or running errands, the Hoka Ora Recovery Slider 3s are a top-pick. Schaeffer applauds Hoka sandals for their top-tier comfort and ergonomic design, both of which support overall foot health. While these slides may not be the most attractive sandals in the world, you'll be glad to know that they're actually quite popular in the health, wellness, and athleisure worlds.

"Honestly, I LOVE these. They are so comfy and cute. If you are looking for a pair of slides you can wear every day and actually feel good for your feet, these slides are perfect. They are AMAZING quality and not extremely expensive. I wear these all day. After taking off my ski boots [or] tight cleats, they are the best at helping my feet recover. Feels like I am walking on clouds. This is my first pair, and definitely not my last!" writes one reviewer.

Sizes: 5-16 | Colors: 24 | Material: Sugarcane | Style: Slide | Closure: Slip-on

Gizeh Birko-Flor

Another pair of Birks, because there are just too many top-rated silhouettes to choose from! “Last summer I traveled to Italy and my sandals caused a lot of blisters so one morning I spontaneously bought the only Birkenstocks I could find in Venice and it was the Gizeh,” López says. “I wore them every single day for 10 days and they were perfect. The thong style let my feet breathe, I didn’t get blisters from the straps, and Birkenstocks become more comfortable every single day you wear them.”

If that's not enough to make you want a pair stat, perhaps the fact that over 2,600 shoppers have given them a 5-star review will give you that extra nudge to try them for yourself.

Sizes: 4-11.5 | Colors: 10 | Material: Cork footbed and faux leather upper | Style: Thong | Closure: Buckled slip-on

Jillian Quarter Strap

For leather sandals that pair as well with dinner outfits as they do daytime exploration ensembles, check out the Aertex Jillian Quarter Strap Sandal. Schaeffer is a big fan of the brand thanks to their podiatrist-backed arch placement, which is especially beneficial for folks with plantar fasciitis.

"I love these shoes! In August I had my first encounter with plantar fasciitis and was in nonstop pain for nine months until I got these a few weeks ago…I have been pain-free ever since," writes one reviewer.

Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 7 | Material: Rubber soles with leather uppers | Style: Strappy sandal | Closure: Hook-and-loop

Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs

While not technically a sandal, Yau says that Crocs are a fantastic option for folks craving a closed-toe silhouette. “Due to the hole design on the top of the shoes, the feet are able to breathe and dry quickly,” she says. And since they’re made of PEVA, they’re waterproof, so you can wear them on wet and dry adventures alike.

"The comfort of these shoes is unparalleled. The proprietary Croslite material conforms to your foot, providing excellent support and cushioning. Whether you’re walking around the house or going for a long stroll in the park, these shoes keep your feet comfortable all day long," writes one Amazon reviewer.

Sizes: 4-19 | Colors: 60+ | Material: EVA | Style: Clogs | Closure: Slip-on

What to look for when shopping for the most comfortable walking sandals

✔️ Cushioning: “A soft, cushioned sandal is going to absorb more impact while walking and standing all day,” López says. Too much cushion, however, can make you feel like you’re walking on pillows, and not in a good way, Yau notes. With too much cushioning, you run the risk of instability, which can lead to more issues than discomfort could alone.

✔️ Arch support: “Sandals with arch support are great, without them your feet may feel tired and in pain as the forces of walking overstretch the arch,” Yau says. Just keep in mind that depending on how much arch support a sandal offers, it may require some getting used to, as many shoes these days feature less than stellar support—so making the switch will require an adjustment period.

✔️ Straps: Depending on how far and fast you plan to walk, back straps can be helpful, according to Yau. Meanwhile, mid-foot and ankle straps can offer a better overall fit. Just be sure to look for softly-lined straps and/or flexible ones. “Poor-quality straps can irritate the skin and cause blisters if they're not fitted well,” Yau warns.

FAQ

• What is the most comfortable type of sandal?
  It boils down to personal preference. “I think different design elements create the most comfortable sandal,” López says, ticking off adjustable straps, supportive midsoles, and a hint of cushioning. “Personally, my feet swell after walking long days or travel so I want a sandal that is breathable and not squishing my feet or rubbing while walking so I love a Birkenstock, strappy sandal, or dad sandal.”
  If you find that your sandals are comfortable in every way but cushioning and arch support, Schaeffer (who is a Dr. Scholl’s brand ambassador) says using insoles, like the Dr. Scholl’s Discreet Cushioning Insoles for Flats & Sandals ($10), can help.

• Which footwear brands make the most comfortable walking sandals? According to López, Birkenstock reigns supreme, with Vionic edging to the top of the list. Schaeffer prefers Aertex, Hoka, OluKai, and Clarks, while Yau recommends Birkenstock, Archies, and KURU.

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