The Most Comfortable Sandals For Your Summer Walks

The importance of a good pair of comfortable sandals can’t be overstated. Your typical flip flops purchased last minute at the airport just won’t cut it, so we’re stepping up the game with the best sandals that are stylish and fun and will last you all day long. 

A comfortable everyday alternative to high heels, walking sandals just like flats and sneakers are versatile enough to tackle the streets of your next destination, to walk you to (and home from) the bar and every occasion in between. 

There are the chunky masculine designs that’ll add an edgy appeal to any outfit, the delicate and feminine sandals to pair with floaty maxi dresses and the trusty reliable Birkenstock to accompany you everywhere. 

From the functional and fashionable flatforms to orthotic Vionic sandals and fresh takes on the effortlessly chic flats and slides, get ready to discover your new favourite comfortable walking sandals. 

Perfect your pedicure, grab your next holiday read and don these summer sandals for an easy work-to-holiday transformation. We’ll meet you on the beach.

The 19 most comfortable sandals for women

#	Brand	Best for
1	Birkenstock	Best overall
2	Saint Laurent	Best designer
3	Cushionaire	Best value
4	Porte & Paire	Best strappy
5	Vionic	Best for arch support
6	St Agni	Best leather
7	M.Gemi	Best slip-on heels
8	Gucci	Best slides
9	Havaianas	Best flip flops
10	Birkenstock EVA	Best waterproof
11	Ancient Greek Sandals	Best gladiators
12	Teva	Best for hiking
13	Vince	Best adjustable straps
14	Sanuk	Best yoga
15	Dr Scholl’s	Best wedge
16	Sorel	Best flatform
17	Jil Sander	Best chunky
18	Anine Bing	Best dressy
19	Christian Louboutin	Most expensive

Birkenstock Mayari: Most comfortable sandals for women

Fashion trends may shift over time but if there’s one sandal that’s consistently cool, it’s the Birkenstock. We could have put together this guide in 2010, 2000 or 2030 and we’d say with full certainty that the uber-cool Birkenstock would feature proudly at least once. Merging the chunky shoe trend with a failsafe cork sole and support that moulds exactly to the shape of your foot, a Birkenstock is the trusty sandal that you’ll want to wear on repeat — whether sauntering the streets of Europe, exploring hidden destinations across the world or quickly slipping on for Sunday brunch. 

In truth, any pair of Birkenstocks would probably take the title for our overall favourite pair of sandals but our top choice for those days when you know you’ll be covering more ground than usual are the Birkenstock Mayari. 

With a contoured footbed, oiled leather and adjustable buckle closures, these are the sandals that, if you ever forgot to pack them for holiday, you’d likely turn the car around to pick them up instead of risking another sandal.

Best for: Getting more use on holidays than your camera.

Colours: A range including black, metallic, brown

Saint Laurent Nu Pieds Leather Slides: Best luxury sandals

It doesn’t matter how cute they are — even your dream shoes will quickly become a point of rage if they’re uncomfortable. Slide sandals offer one of the most popular silhouettes of the season and this designer pair by Saint Laurent seals the deal with intertwining strips of smooth leather, a square toe and plenty of personality. Comfortable, chic and almost challenging you not to add them to your basket, Saint Laurent’s Nu Pieds slides are our favourite choice for adding to a capsule wardrobe. 

The versatile design — neither a heel or a flat — draws us to these for day or night and soft leather dismisses all ideas of aching feet. If you’re looking for one pair of fashionable designer sandals to add to your collection, make it these ones. The perfect fit for vacation or walking around the city, you’ll wonder how you ever made it through summer without them.

Best for: That “can’t wait to debut my new outfit” feeling, every time they’re worn

Colours: Tan and black

Cushionaire Luna Cork: Best value comfy sandals

Flattering and comfortable while remaining stylish and versatile, the Cushionaire Luna Sandal comes in a huge range of colours to see you through from the first day of spring to the final glow of summer. Adjustable buckles make this sandal comfortable for any kind of foot shape and the soft materials make wearing these akin to lazily hopping across clouds.

Premium quality with seriously soft footbeds, these happy-feet-happy-wallet sandals are known for being superior to their price point and promise to look just as chic after plenty of wear. If you’re looking for Birks lookalikes with a wallet-friendly price tag, these are a go-to option that’ll see you through summer after summer. A flexible footbed, suede insoles, adjustable straps and a vegan upper also make these some of the most comfortable sandals for wide feet.

Best for: Premium comfort without a premium price

Colours: A range including black, taupe, gold rose

Porte & Paire: Most comfortable strappy sandals

The right pair of strappy sandals will let you drift away into the sunshine in worry-free bliss. Barely-there — yet never underdressed — Porte & Paire’s suede sandals are the effortless addition to your holiday wardrobe. 

With its delicate ties that elegantly wrap around your ankles, these are versatile sandals you’ll gladly wear on repeat with everything from floaty dresses to cropped jeans.

A favourite among minimalists for the timeless design and unwavering freedom, these strappy sandals are made for lazy walks and the ideal companion to a glass of wine in a bar filled with ocean breeze.

Best for: A laid-back appeal designed for switching off.

Colours: Chocolate and black

Vionic: Most comfortable women’s sandals with arch support

If you can find a cute pair of comfortable sandals with plenty of support, you’ll be one step ahead of everyone else when it comes to those endless days of exploring — or the times when you get a bit lost. 

Vionic sandals for women are biomechanically designed to hug your arches, no matter whether you’ve got a slight under pronation or suffer from flat feet. Comfortable and durable, these Vionic sandals act as a mould for your feet, offering excellent arch support without being overbearing or bulky. Designed specifically for women with arch problems, the trick is to wear them in gently for a few days to make sure they’ve moulded to your exact foot position. 

More stylish than Vionic flip flops, the Vionic Wanda T-Strap sandals also come with an adjustable strap so you can ensure you get the perfect fit for even better support.

The best sandals with arch support on our list, these Vionic sandals are available in both medium and wide widths, making them some of the most comfortable sandals for wide feet, too.

Best for: A pair of orthotic sandals that stand out for all the right reasons.

Colours: Black, macaroon, snake prints

St Agni Sportsu: Most comfortable leather sandals for women

Even if the weather’s gloomy and your holidays have been and gone, there’s nothing to stop you from plotting your outfits for future vacations. Or, at least, that’s what we’re telling ourselves when we look at St Agni’s sandals and need an excuse to invest in another pair. Vegetable-dyed leather and durable rubber soles combine in these handmade sandals, resulting in a dreamy pair that’ll continue to look box-clean year after year.

  St Agni’s collection is designed for the woman who cares about quality above all, so if you’re looking for a pair of sandals to wear again and again without showing any kind of scuffs, these are the ones to go for. The understated nature of St Agni’s Tan Sportsu leather sandals pairs with neutral shades for an effortlessly stylish “oh this? I just found it at the back of my wardrobe” look.

Best for: An effortlessly put-together look that invites compliments from friends and strangers.

Colours: Black, tan, nude

Teva Hurricane: Most comfortable sandals for hiking and adventurous travel

Summer adventures call for hiking sandals. Don’t disregard the super versatile, super comfortable tourist sandal, because it’ll never go out of fashion. Quite simply because it’s one that we’ll bring out year after year to accompany us on adventurous trips all over the world. The last thing you want to be doing on holiday is constantly checking your bag for plasters so focus your energy on scouring out the best kept secret spots by sticking to a failsafe pair of sports sandals instead. The OG hiking sandal, Teva Hurricane will be up there with the sandals that you repurchase again and again once they’ve finally taken their last steps. 

And, before you question their quality, we’ll say that those final steps come a long way further than the standard pair of sandals. These utilitarian sandals will keep you light on your feet even when you’re pretty certain you’ve covered every single one of the museums or trails in your chosen destination. 

Hike in them, explore in them, walk in them — these Teva sandals are ready for any outdoor activities that you have planned.

Best for: Finishing a day’s exploring without wanting to rip your toes off.

Colours: Hazel Black, Celtic Aqua

M.Gemi Ilaria 25mm: Most comfortable slip-on sandals

Before you say that classy sandals with heels can’t also be comfortable, sink your feet into these Ilaria sandals and get ready to be majorly impressed – Italian craftsmanship is the name of the game for M.Gemi. 

A cushioned sole, square toe, and 25mm round heel offer style with practicality while the contrasting pairing of suede and leather creates a pair of comfortable slides that is anything but ordinary.

Consider these slip on sandals a one-way ticket to Italy for your feet. Handmade in Toscana by skilled craftspeople, M.Gemi’s Ilaria sandals  will serve you well here, there and everywhere and look totally on-trend.

Learn more about the story behind M.GEMI.

Best for: La Dolce Vita for your feet.

Colours: A range including black, taupe and tan

Gucci: Most comfortable slides for women

If you’ve always wanted to dip a toe (or ten) into designer slides, this is the luxury slide sandal to do it. 

With a small 10mm heel, squared toe, buttery matelassé leather and the luxury house’s iconic GG logo, these slides are as comfortable as they are beautiful. 

Gucci’s slides are the kind of summer-friendly shoe that makes you want to throw on a linen dress and book a holiday to the Italian Riviera. Pronto.

These comfortable slides are sure to instantly elevate any look this summer and slip seamlessly into your streamlined lifestyle. Team them with breezy summer dresses or your favourite jeans and relaxed tailoring for an effortlessly chic summer. On vacation and back home. 

Comfortable and chic? Bravissimo.

Best for: Sliding into summer, the fashionista way.

Colour: Black

Havaianas: Most comfortable flip flops

The best thing about thong sandals is their laid-back appeal. Havaianas are adorable, there’s no doubting that. The ubiquitous holiday shoe, sold all over the world and often hastily picked up in airports, is one that’s famous for a reason. Flip flops might often get a bad rep for their lack of support and rubbing between the toes but Havaianas are renowned for breezily strolling past any issues to do with comfort.

Havaianas are the most comfortable flip flops around and pretty much synonymous with summertime. The hardest problem you’ll have when wearing them is deciding which colour to go for. 

Highly durable with a shock-absorbing midsole, they’ll accompany you to the beach, down the promenade and for a day trip exploring. A classic summer style means you’ll instantly associate these with sunshine and blue skies, so don’t blame us if you buy a pair and immediately start booking your next trip. Or, for the meantime, sit outside in the sunshine with these on your feet for the next closest thing. Aloha, warm weather!

Best for: Holiday feeling for your feet.

Colours: A range including rose gold, rose nude, steel grey

Birkenstock Arizona Essentials: Most comfortable waterproof sandals

Birkenstock has been atop the sandal world for quite some time now and for good reasons. It’s fashionable. It’s practical. It’s comfortable. And now it’s waterproof. What else could you possibly want from a summer sandal?

Featuring the classic Arizona silhouette moulded from ultra-lightweight EVA (read: kind of like the Crocs on style steroids), the Arizona Essentials are the ultimate companions for warm weather. 

Wear these water-friendly Birks to the beach or poolside, wear them while lounging at home, wear them exploring your favourite exotic locales, wear them with anything and everything.

Best for: Making a splash whatever your vacation style.

Colours: A range including black, white, khaki

Vince Olsen: Most comfortable women’s sandals with adjustable straps

What California dreams feel like for your feet. The understated, timeless aesthetic of this sandal will lend an effortless spirit to just about every summer ensemble. 

This slingback sandal checks all the right boxes—chic, versatile and comfortable. Adjustable leather straps provide a secure fit while buttery-soft leather and cushioned rubber soles keep you comfortable.
A fabulous day-to-night sandal, Vince’s Olsen in tan will look especially great against sunkissed skin.

Best for: A minimalistic sole mate.

Colours: Black, tan

Ancient Greek Sandals: Most comfortable gladiator sandals

Few shoes have the ability to take you from suburban living to Greek goddess in a matter of mere seconds. And nothing suggests a cool, calm and collected demeanour quite like a woman dressed in gladiator sandals. You might be tempted to buy up multiple pairs for all of these occasions but investing in one ageless pair will save room, time and outfit stresses. 

Blending the historical charm of Ancient Greece with a contemporary sense of style, this Estia pair will have you gracefully strolling from one adventure to the next. 

Interlocking straps ooze class while a wraparound ankle strap adds an extra dimension to your outfit. The winged buckle can also be adjusted for your perfect fit.

Best for: Pretending you’re a boho Greek goddess in Santorini.

Colours: Black, stone, white

Sanuk: Most comfortable yoga sandals

Dressy enough to wear out to dinner, comfortable enough for a post-dinner stroll and cosy enough to put on for those WFH days, Sanuk’s sandals are the missing piece in the puzzle for those catch-all shoes that are ready to be thrown on at any moment. Not only are these sling sandals renowned for being some of the comfiest on the market but they’re also from cult brand Sanuk with its watertight sustainability pledge. Sanuk Yoga Sling 2 Sandals come with a stretch knit upper, which is basically the closest thing you’ll find to a hug in a shoe. 

They also feature a cushioned footbed made from real yoga mat material, which your toes will very gladly sink into whenever they get the opportunity. Sanuk is known for not just releasing stylish sandals in every colour under the sun but also for ensuring they use partially recycled EVA to do their bit for the planet. Start off with one pair and don’t blame us if you find yourself ordering at least one other colour soon after. Added bonus: they require virtually zero break-in time.

Best for: Saying namaste to happy feet.

Colours: A range including black, auburn, rose palm

Dr Scholl’s: Most comfortable wedge sandals

Is there a better shoe to instantly take your feet on vacation than a wedge sandal? Combining the sass of high heels with the care-free comfort of sturdy flats, these wedge sandals 

make walking around a breeze. 

Dr Scholl’s wedge sandals feature adjustable straps, anatomical contoured insoles and flexible outsole.

Easy, breezy and ready for a day of errands around town followed by your favourite al fresco dinner. No need for a pair of backup flats in your purse. 

Best for: Elevated comfort. 

Colours: Black, sea breeze, oyster, moss green

Sorel: Most comfortable flatform sandals

Need a lift? Stray away from heels for once because the flat-form nature of these sandals adds any extra height without waving goodbye to cosy toes. Cute, comfy and bang on style, this sporty take on the classic espadrille is an outfit-elevating choice for all occasions and probably one of the comfiest summer shoes you could own. 

The lightweight platform and iconic scalloped sole give you wear-all-day height. They’re sturdy and durable, which makes Sorel’s wedge sandals great for days when you’ll be travelling far, and a stylish enough all-rounder to bring on holiday. 

Best for: No pain, all gain lift. 

Colours: Tan, beige, white, red and yellow

Anine Bing: Most comfortable dress sandals

Sleek enough to look super professional, these dress sandals will ensure you confidently walk into meetings and parties alike looking the part. 

A small tapered heel adds extra height without waving goodbye to cosy toes. Anine Bing’s Anna sandals are crafted in smooth black leather with puffy straps for ample support and 24/7 comfort. 

Once you’ve put them on, you’ll never want to take them off. Even if that means staying at work a little later. Better yet, these dressy sandals strike the perfect balance between class and comfort, easily transitioning from day wear to evening wear with just the right amount of edgy attitude. 

Best for: Making you (and your feet) feel on top of the world. 

Colour: Black

Jil Sander: Best chunky platform sandals for women

For more of a casual yet statement-making sandal, opt for this pair of chunky slingback sandals to ground your look. Fusing sartorial and activewear codes, Jil Sander’s chunky leather flatform sandals are made to be noticed, for all the right reasons.

Padded straps, a moulded footbed and chunky rubber soles give these athletic sandals a leg up when it comes to style and comfort — kind of like your favourite combat boot’s summer-loving sister.

Best for: A reinvigorating breath of fresh air in shoe form. 

Colours: Black, cream

Christian Louboutin: Most expensive sandals for women

Sometimes we’re just looking for an excuse to go all-out with footwear and a pair of flashy sandals promise to help us do just that. Silver, sparkling and seriously shiny, Christian Louboutin’s Just Strass sandals are the missing ingredient to any evening occasion. A conversation starter of a shoe that you’ll bring out at everything from your favourite happy hours to a summer wedding, these might be just the sandals you’ve been searching for. 

You can’t go wrong with a pair of Louboutin’s and these ones combine that famous red sole with lashings of dazzling crystals and Italian iridescent leather. Not only will you look forward to wearing them, but you’ll also search far and wide for any other occasion to wear them. Confident, bold and ready for attention, these sandals elevate any outfit with a 85mm / 3.5 inch heel and a personality that will instantly win anyone over. 

Best for: Ensuring you’re the centre of attention at the click of your heels

Colour: Silver

Buyers guide to comfortable walking sandals

There’s nothing stopping you from strolling into the shopping centre and picking up the first pair of sandals that catch your eye, but it’s always better to be in the know before you update your wardrobe. Next time you’re shopping for sandals, keep the following factors in mind: 

Arch support

One of the main issues you’ll find with buying sandals is the lack of arch support which, in turn, can make a relatively comfy-seeming pair quickly go downhill. If you’re someone who struggles with arch problems, opt for a pair with plenty of support or invest in some orthotics or insoles to compensate. 

Material

A high quality material like leather or suede will last infinitely longer than artificial materials. It’ll also ensure your sandals are comfier and less likely to rub against your toes. Choose natural materials for best results. 

Sole

Memory foam or other cushioning can make or break a sandal so, where possible, choose a pair that shows off about its thick sole. There’s not really a wrong answer with this — just avoid pairs that look especially flat or unsupportive or face the wrath of your ankles the next day. 

Style

From mules to flip flops, heels and ankle straps: there’s a sandal out there for everyone. Sandals with straps offer more support and require less effort to stay in one place on your feet. When buying your next pair, keep in mind where you’ll most likely be wearing them. If they’re going to become a staple in your wardrobe, look for supportive shoes that won’t cause foot pain. If you’re just updating your holiday options, a flip flop might be more suitable. 

Size

It might go without saying, but ensure you’re buying the right size sandals. Too small and your toes and heel could drag on the floor but too big and you could trip. 

Frequently asked questions about buying comfortable sandals