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We Walked for 82 Days to Find the Best Walking Sandals for Comfort and Style

After researching and testing dozens of sandals, we recommend these pairs for comfort and support

Person putting on teva original universal sandal

Verywell Fit / Elena Garcia

Walking in hot weather often results in sweaty, smelly, and uncomfortable feet, but wearing a good pair of walking sandals can keep you cool and fresh. When shopping for walking sandals, look for high-quality cushioning and support to prevent fatigue and soreness. A secure fit is also key, so your feet don't slide out of the shoe with every stride.

To find the best walking sandals on the market, we researched dozens of pairs and evaluated them for material, price, comfort, and breathability. We also tested 31 pairs in the real world, following Verywell’s at-home testing guidelines. To test each pair, we spent 82 days walking on various surfaces for many miles to assess their comfort, support, traction, and durability. Our final recommendations scored high for fit, comfort, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, quality, and value. We also had a walking coach, ACE-certified group fitness instructor, and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board review our picks and claims for accuracy.

Best Overall

Teva Zymic Women’s Sandal

Teva Zymic Women’s Sandal

Teva

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Lightweight but supportive

  • Padded, adjustable straps

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons
  • No half sizes

Comfortable, supportive, and durable, Teva’s Zymic sandals offer everything you want in a walking sandal, making them an easy pick for our best overall spot. With a contoured, arch-supporting footbed and flexible sole, they’re designed for all-day comfort.

Like other Teva sandals, the Zymic doesn’t come in half sizes, but when testing, we had no trouble getting a precise, comfy fit. With an open-toe design and adjustable straps, there are no concerns about squished toes. The padded straps are smooth and comfortable and never cause any irritation or blisters.

The sandals feel lightweight on walks while still providing excellent support and stability. The wide base and grippy rubber outsole keep us surefooted and steady on all types of terrain.

We also like that they’re treated with a peppermint-based antimicrobial to keep them odor-free. Even better, these sandals are made with recycled materials, so you can feel good about wearing an environmentally-friendly shoe. 

Overall, we love this sporty pair for light hiking, travel, and all-day wear and think they’re a fantastic value for durable, high-quality sandals.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Style: Strappy athletic | Closure: Adjustable straps | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Cushioned webbing and recycled plastic upper, textile lining, foam footbed, recycled foam midsole, recycled foam outsole, rubber outsole

Best Women’s

Keen Women's Ellecity Backstrap Sandal

Keen Women's Ellecity Backstrap Sandal

Keen

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Comfortable, adjustable straps

  • Excellent support and stability

  • Stylish

Cons
  • Cushioning is firmer than some other options

  • Limited color options

Keen’s Ellecity Backstrap takes our top women’s spot thanks to its customizable fit, stellar support, and comfy, contoured footbed. These sandals offer remarkable stability and shock absorption on various surfaces, including hardwood, concrete, grass, and carpet. We’re impressed with the soft leather straps, which feel smooth and don’t cause any irritation or blisters. The wide strap around the ankle area has a sturdy metal buckle that’s easy to adjust, providing a secure fit and more stability.

We also love that the versatile Ellecity can accommodate different foot types, from flat feet to high arches. The sandal’s arch support felt comfortable on walks, even for testers with different foot types. However, the cushioning is not extremely plush, so wearers who like a soft underfoot may not appreciate the firmer footbed.

The sandals’ antimicrobial treatment is effective and keeps the pair odor-free, even after a full day of wearing them. Beyond their optimal fit and functionality, these sandals have a sleek style that pairs nicely with casual to dressy attire, making them an ideal option for business or vacation travel. However, we’d love to see them in more than just a few basic color options.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Style: Wedge | Closure: Leather straps with buckle | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Leather upper, textile lining and insole, rubber outsole

Best Men's

Hoka Hopara Sandals

Hoka Hopara Sandals

Hoka 

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Rubber toe cap

  • Excellent support and stability

  • Breathable cutouts provide good drainage

Cons
  • Straps aren’t adjustable

Walking sandals need to be comfortable and supportive, as well as durable and grippy enough to handle all surfaces. Hoka’s Hopara All-Terrain Shoe checks all those boxes and more, which earned it our top spot for men.

We like that this sporty, adventure-ready pair combines the comfort and breathability of a sandal with the support and stability of a sneaker. This shoe’s breathable vents help keep our feet cool, dry, and odor-free on walks. We’re also impressed that these sandals fit securely but don’t cause any irritation or blisters, even after walking in them for hours.

With a rubberized foam midsole, the Hopara offers soft responsiveness that makes walking in them effortless. The tough rubber outsole features deep, sticky lugs that provide exceptional grip in wet and dry conditions. We also like that the rubber toe cap up front guards against rocks and debris, while pull tabs allow us to quickly slip the sandals on and off. 

Like some other walking sandals on our list, these have a quick-lace bungee system that we find very convenient, although some might prefer adjustable straps to get the right fit. The versatile Hopara is a supportive, comfy option whether you’re hitting the trails, exploring a new city, or running errands around town.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Men’s 7 to 14 | Style: Sporty | Closure: Quick lace system | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Neoprene upper, rubberized EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Best Women’s Budget

Sanuk Cosmic Waves H20 Sandal

Sanuk Cosmic Waves H20 Sandal

Sanuk

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.5/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.8/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Quick-drying and durable

  • Molded, textured footbed

  • Machine-washable

Cons
  • May not have enough support for long distances

For an affordable, athletic sandal that doesn’t skimp on comfort or quality, check out Sanuk’s Cosmic Waves H2O sandals. We’re impressed with the pair’s overall comfort and features, some of which we didn’t expect at such a budget-friendly price. For instance, the molded, textured footbed is surprisingly comfy and helps to prevent our feet from slipping or sliding around. The sandals also deliver reliable arch support and shock absorption, allowing us to walk comfortably on various surfaces.

Made entirely of eco-friendly, quick-drying materials, the Cosmic Waves H20 will prepare you for water activities or summer days when you get caught in a pop-up rain shower. And this pair is machine-washable, so you can easily keep them looking and smelling fresh.

It’s worth noting that the soles are thinner than some other sandals we tested, and they’re much easier to twist and bend. Although we like their flexibility and comfort for casual wear, we don’t know if they’d be sturdy enough for walking long distances. Still, if you’re looking for sandals that are comfy and easy to pack for warm-weather vacations or trips to the beach, they’re a great value.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Style: Athletic | Closure: Adjustable straps | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Synthetic leather upper, recycled linking, foam footbed, rubber outsole

Best Men’s Budget

Teva Original Universal

Teva Original Universal

Zappos

Pros
  • Very lightweight

  • Three adjustable straps

  • Sleek, low-profile style

Cons
  • May not be supportive or stable enough for some

  • Straps may feel stiff at first

A tried-and-true favorite from Teva, their Original Universal Sandal offers a customized, comfy fit and excellent durability, all at a budget-friendly price. When testing these sandals, we were able to get a perfect fit, thanks to the three adjustable straps.

At just 6 ounces, this sandal is one of the lightest on our list, making it ideal for those who want shoes that don’t feel bulky or heavy. Plus, they’re easy to stash and carry in a backpack or suitcase, making them a good option for travel and outdoor adventures. However, the thin midsole may not offer enough stability or support if you have flat feet or are walking on rough terrain.

The straps felt stiff at first, and some blisters started to form. However, after wearing them a few times, they softened and stopped causing any irritation. We recommend walking in them at home for a bit before venturing out for a day-long adventure.

Since these sandals dry quickly, they’re perfect shoes for beach walking and other water activities. Their simple, low-profile style also works for everyday wear. And with dozens of colors and patterns to choose from, you can pick a pair that suits your style.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Men’s 7-14 | Style: Athletic | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Firm | Materials: Recycled plastic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Vionic Jamie Flatform Lug Sandal

Vionic Jamie Flatform Lug Sandal

Vionic

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.8/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.4/5
  • Stability
    4.9/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Excellent support and stability

  • Comfortable and durable

  • Stylish

Cons
  • Not suitable for fitness walking

  • Platform may feel heavy for some

If you have a history of plantar fasciitis, you need supportive and cushioned shoes, like Vionic’s Jamie sandal. They feature an ergonomic design that molds to our feet and hugs our arches, offering support right where it’s needed.

The sandals always feel sturdy, no matter what surface we walk on. They’ve adequately supported us and kept our feet comfortable when walking on wood floors, grass, pavement, uneven sidewalks, and boardwalks. That being said, the sandals’ platform makes the shoes feel a bit heavy, which isn’t a problem for us on most walks but may lead to some foot and leg fatigue after all-day wear.    

The leather straps feel smooth and soft against our skin and don't cause irritation or chafing. We can adjust them for a comfortable and secure fit, and our feet don’t slip or slide as we walk. Plus, the durable rubber outsole provides grippy, reliable traction, keeping us steady.

The Jamie is a bit dressier than others we tested and is suited for casual wear or going out rather than more active pursuits such as boating or beach walking. But they're a comfy, attractive option for those who need excellent arch support to help prevent a plantar fasciitis flare-up.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 6-11 | Style: Platform | Closure: Adjustable strap with buckle | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole

Best for Travel

ECCO Flowt 2 Band Sandal

ECCO Flowt 2 Band Sandal

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Excellent support and stability

  • Secure, comfortable fit

  • Soft and responsive cushioning

Cons
  • Straps aren’t padded

Ecco’s Flowt Strap Sandals are comfortable, supportive, easy to pack, and extremely versatile, making them great for travel. With the perfect combination of comfort and style, they can easily go from all-day sightseeing to dinner at a restaurant.

The sandals are easy to adjust for a secure, stable fit and feel comfortable from the first step, with no break-in period needed. Unlike some of the other sandals we tested, the straps aren’t padded, but they don’t cause any discomfort on walks. We never notice any rubbing or irritation when wearing these, and our feet stay in place, even when walking up and down hills at a faster pace.

The sandals’ soft but supportive cushioning provides good impact protection and responsiveness on various surfaces, including concrete sidewalks, hardwood floors, and pavement. One of our testers, who is prone to plantar fasciitis, found the sandals offered the right amount of arch support and heel cushioning to keep symptoms at bay. 

We recommend the Flowt 2 to those who want a multipurpose sandal with the comfort and support needed for all-day wear.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 4-12.5 | Style: Strappy and sporty | Closure: Adjustable hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Materials: Leather and textile upper, polyurethane sole

Best for Wide Feet

Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle Sandal

Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle Sandal

Birkenstock

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.7/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.8/5
  • Stability
    4.8/5
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Excellent stability and support

  • High-quality, durable materials

  • Three adjustable straps

Cons
  • Require a break-in period

  • Not very responsive

If you have wide feet, you can avoid painful rubbing and blisters with these Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle sandals. We love that the three adjustable straps deliver a customized fit to accommodate feet of all shapes and sizes. The straps on these sandals provide good stability while also preventing our feet from sliding around. And the open-toe design and spacious toe box offer plenty of room up front.

Like other Birkenstocks, these sandals feature their contoured cork footbed, providing exceptional support as we trek around. While the sandal’s cushioning is not thick and plush, the sandals deliver good shock absorption, especially in the heel area. However, if you’re looking for a springy sandal that helps propel you forward like a responsive sneaker, this isn’t the sandal for you.

We should note that if you’ve never worn Birkenstocks, they feel stiff at first. But you can follow the manufacturer’s easy instructions for breaking them in so the footbed conforms to the shape of your foot. With its high-quality construction and materials, the Milano is a great value and an especially good walking sandal for wide feet.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 4-12.5; Men’s 6-13 | Style: Slingback | Closure: Adjustable straps with buckle | Cushioning: Firm | Materials: Nubuck leather upper, cork-latex footbed, leather lining, rubber outsole

Best Arch Support

NAOT Kayla Sandal

NAOT Kayla Sandal

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.8/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Available in three widths

  • Stylish

Cons
  • Toe straps aren’t adjustable

  • May feel too stiff for some

Naot’s Kayla sandal is a smart choice if you prefer reliable arch support. The sandals’ cork and latex footbed feels firm but comfortable, and the raised arch offers support right where we need it most, allowing us to walk comfortably. That being said, those who don’t need extra arch support might find the sandals a bit too stiff or firm.

This sandal is available in three widths, so it works for many foot shapes and sizes. The hook-and-loop strap at the ankle allows for a secure fit, although we’d love it if the other two straps across the forefoot could also be adjusted.

The sandal’s simple yet elegant design complements almost any outfit, and while they’re a bit more expensive than others, the quality makes them worth the investment. This pair also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a panel of podiatrists has determined that they help support good foot health. We also like that they’re a firmer alternative to the athletic sandals with cushy soles on our list.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 4-13 | Style: Strappy platform | Closure: Adjustable strap | Cushioning: Firm | Materials: Leather or suede upper, cork and latex footbed, foam and rubber outsole

Best Cushioning

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Affinity Sandal

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Affinity Sandal

Skechers

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    3/5
  • Stability
    4.8/5
  • Fit
    4.8/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Excellent arch support

  • Three adjustable straps

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • Straps could be more breathable

  • No half sizes

If cushioning is your top priority in a walking sandal, consider Skechers’ Go Walk Arch Fit - Affinity sandals. These shoes have a foam midsole that provides decent bounce-back and impact absorption, helping to prevent foot fatigue. They also have great arch support that gently hugs our feet. Meanwhile, the textured footbed keeps our feet in place, and the flexible sole allows for a natural walking gait.

The soft, adjustable straps are easily regulated for a custom-like, secure fit. While the straps feel smooth and don’t cause any irritation or blisters, they’re not super breathable, and our feet occasionally get sweaty underneath them as we walk. Like some other sandals on our list, they don’t come in half sizes, but we personally didn’t find that to be a problem for getting the right fit.

Despite their stellar cushioning and support, these sandals still feel very lightweight and don’t weigh down our feet. They also dry quickly, so they're perfect for lake, beach, or pool trips. We love this budget-friendly pair if you’re looking for cute, comfy sandals for weekend wear, travel, and summer adventures.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 6-12 | Style: Strappy athletic | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Mesh fabric upper, textile and synthetic lining, textile and synthetic outsole

Best for All-Day Wear

Keen Women's Elle Mixed Strap Sandal

Keen Women's Elle Mixed Strap Sandal

Keen

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Lightweight design

  • Great arch support

  • Soft, responsive cushioning

Cons
  • Toggle closure may dig into feet

  • Leather may make feet sweaty

With excellent support, comfort, and traction, Keen’s Elle Mixed Strap sandal checks all the boxes for what you want in a walking sandal for all-day wear. These sandals feature a cork footbed that’s super cushy and springy while still providing good support in the arch area. When taking these on walks, they feel stable and grippy on various terrain, including pavement, sidewalks, and light trails. They also offer excellent shock absorption, helping to ward off foot fatigue, even when wearing and walking in them for long periods.

The sandals feature a toggle closure, which is easy to adjust for a precise, snug fit. However, the toggle sometimes digs into the top of our feet when standing from a kneeling position, which can be an issue if wearing them when gardening or playing with kids or pets.

The heel straps are padded, which adds to the overall comfort and helps prevent irritation and blisters. We also like that the sandals have an anti-odor treatment, which is helpful since the leather lining makes our feet a bit warm and sweaty. 

We recommend the Elle Mixed Strap sandal for anyone looking for an attractive sandal that’s durable and comfortable enough to handle long days on your feet.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Style: Slip-on | Closure: Bungee system | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Materials: Leather and textile upper, leather lining, cork footbed, foam midsole, rubber outsole

Best for Beach Walking

Teva Tirra Sandals

Teva Women's Tirra Sandals

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.9/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.8/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    4.4/5
Pros
  • Excellent traction

  • Lots of color options

  • Good cushioning and support

Cons
  • Better for narrow feet

  • Narrow straps may be uncomfortable to some

If you need a reliable walking sandal for strolling on the beach, you can’t go wrong with this versatile, well-designed sandal from Teva. The sandals’ contoured EVA midsole provides comfortable arch support during walks, while the cushioned heel absorbs impact in the right spots. The nylon shank and durable rubber outsole deliver outstanding stability, support, and traction for walking on uneven terrain or wet conditions.

Sporty but feminine, these sandals feature fully padded straps that keep your feet secure and stable and don’t rub to cause blisters or hot spots. We also love that it’s easy to remove sand and dirt by simply running them under water. Even better, they feature an antimicrobial treatment derived from peppermint that helps prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing.

For trips to the beach and light hiking, the Tirra sandals will provide the comfort and support you need, while keeping your feet cool. And they’re available in various colors, so you can find ones to coordinate with your favorite beach attire.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-12 | Style: Strappy athletic | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Firm | Materials: Recycled plastic upper, foam midsole, nylon shank, rubber outsole

Best for Hiking

Ecco Yucatan Sandal

ECCO Women's Yucatan Sandal

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.5/5
  • Responsiveness
    4.3/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.4/5
  • Value
    4.3/5
Pros
  • Excellent traction

  • Three adjustable straps

  • Lightweight but supportive

Cons
  • Not waterproof

  • No half sizes

Hikers of all experience levels will love these durable hiking sandals from Ecco. The contoured footbed is designed to cushion your feet, absorb impact, and provide gentle support when you hit the trails. When walking in these sporty sandals, they feel flexible in the right spots for comfortable walking, but they’re also rigid enough to offer some stability. We are impressed with their durable rubber outsoles, which offer exceptional traction on varied terrain.

One downside of these sandals is that they only come in whole sizes, so getting a precise fit is tough. However, the sandals’ three hook-and-loop straps make adjusting them easy and helped us find a secure and comfortable fit. 

Although the soft, nubuck leather upper isn’t fully waterproof, the sandals can be worn in wet conditions and dry very quickly. The Yucatan is great if you’re looking for a pair of rugged, supportive sandals for hiking on light to moderate trails or for casual wear.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 4-12; Men’s 6-13 | Style: Sporty | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Nubuck leather upper, foam footbed, rubber outsole

Best for Water

Merrell Bravada Backstrap Sandal

Merrell Bravada Backstrap Sandal

Zappos

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.9/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Lightweight but supportive

  • Easy to clean

  • Very durable

Cons
  • No half sizes available

  • Strap may not work for very narrow or wide ankles

Whether you’re kayaking, boating, or spending the day at the beach, Merrell’s Bravada Backstrap Sport sandal can handle the surf and sand while keeping your feet comfy and supported. Made with durable, quick-drying materials, they’re perfect for water activities and have a grippy outsole that keeps you steady on all terrain. Despite a lightweight feel, the sandals’ foam midsole offers good arch support and plush comfort.

The sandals’ three straps are easy to adjust for a secure fit, although the ankle strap might be too short or long for those with very narrow or wide ankles. It’s also worth noting that the sandal doesn’t come in half sizes, but we sized down for an in-between size, and the fit was excellent. 

After several trips to the beach in these, we were impressed with their toughness and durability. The sand easily washes off, revealing spotless sandals. The straps also hold up well and don’t lose their effectiveness after getting soaked numerous times. If you’re searching for reasonably-priced sandals for beach days, water park trips, or other wet adventures, we definitely recommend the Bravada. 

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Style: Athletic | Closure: Adjustable hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Recycled webbing upper, recycled foam insole, rubber outsole

Most Comfortable

Sorel Kinetic Impact II Sling Low Sandal

Sorel Kinetic Impact II Sling Low Sandal

Nordstrom

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.8/5
  • Responsiveness
    5/5
  • Stability
    4.9/5
  • Fit
    4.9/5
  • Value
    4.9/5
Pros
  • Very responsive

  • Lightweight but supportive

  • Durable outsole

Cons
  • Straps aren’t very long

Despite its sleek silhouette and lightweight feel, this stylish, sporty sandal from Sorel offers exceptional comfort and support. We immediately noticed the shoe’s cloud-like comfort and were surprised they felt as supportive and responsive as a pair of sneakers, similar to Hoka’s Hopara All-Terrain Shoe. The sandals provide good energy return and effortless transitions during walks, thanks to a springy midsole. 

The ergonomically-designed insole has light arch support and a heel cup, which enhances the overall comfort of these sandals and helps keep our feet from slipping as we walk. We feel confident and steady walking at various speeds and on all different terrain in this pair, including uneven pavement.

We are also impressed with the sandals’ durable, scalloped outsole, which showed hardly any signs of wear after many miles of walking. The soft nylon back strap feels smooth against the skin and doesn’t cause irritation or chafing. Although the midfoot strap is adjustable, it’s fairly short, so it might be tough for those with wide feet to get a snug fit. 

Still, we recommend the Impact II for anyone who wants a sporty, sneaker-like sandal that’s lightweight and supportive enough for all-day wear.

Key Specs: 
Sizes:
Women’s 5-11 | Style: Sporty | Closure: Two hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Leather upper, foam footbed, rubber outsole

We Also Tested

In total, we’ve tested 31 pairs of sandals, but only the top 15 pairs made our list. Although we liked some aspects of these sandals, they ultimately fell a bit short:

  • Skechers’ On-The-Go 600 – Brillancy sandals are lightweight, well-cushioned, and very breathable, with a budget-friendly price. But they lack arch support and wouldn’t be a good option for long-distance walks.
  • Baretraps’ Danny sandals are affordable and stylish, with soft but responsive cushioning that feels comfortable on various surfaces. However, we don’t like that the toe strap isn’t adjustable because it caused chafing during test walks.
  • We found Naot’s Dorith sandals very sturdy and supportive, especially in the ankle area. However, the midsoles felt stiff and weren’t as comfortable or responsive as other options.

How We Tested the Best Walking Sandals

To find the best walking sandals on the market, we researched pairs from the top, trusted shoe manufacturers, focusing on products with exceptional fit, comfort, quality, and durability. We also asked experts for recommendations and consulted the American Podiatric Medical Association’s list of products that have received their Seal of Acceptance.

To further curate our list, we tested 31 pairs of sandals by walking in them on various surfaces for 82 days. When we test walking sandals in the real world, we score each pair based on the following key attributes:

  • Fit: We note whether the sandals feel snug around the heel and midfoot. Is there enough space to wiggle our toes? We use those observations to rate the sandal’s fit and note if it runs small, big, or true to size. We also determine if the sandals feel comfortable right away or need a break-in period.
  • Stability: We walk on different terrain, such as wood floors, tile, sidewalks, pavement, dirt trails, and grass, to determine the sandal’s stability and traction. We also note how they feel when walking on uneven ground, up or down hills, and on stairs. Additionally, we assess whether the shoe has enough arch and ankle support, noting in particular if it has straps around the ankle.
  • Responsiveness: We evaluate whether the sandals feel springy and propel us to the next step. We also note whether stride transitions feel fast or slow.
  • Cushioning: When walking, we pay attention to how the cushioning feels. Is it plush or firm, and is it distributed evenly or concentrated more in one area, such as the back of the sandal? We also check if the straps are padded, which might affect the shoe’s overall comfort or blister protection.
  • Quality: We put each pair through the bend and twist tests to assess the sandal’s quality, sturdiness, and durability. When we first try them on, we inspect the sandals for any flaws and examine the materials, including the upper, midsole, laces, outsole, and construction. We also check out the shoes and look for signs of wear and tear after many hours of walking in them.
  • Comfort: Do the sandals feel comfortable, even after hours of wear? Are the materials and straps soft and breathable? We also note whether our feet feel hot or sweaty in the sandals and if we feel any rubbing, pressure, or tightness.
  • Value: Based on our testing, we consider if we think the sandals are worth their cost and if we’d pay full price for them.

Our Experts

To determine the top walking sandals of the bunch, we asked several experts for their recommendations and advice on which features the best pairs should have. We spoke with the following four experts: 

What to Look for in Walking Sandals

Comfort

If your sandals aren’t comfortable, you won’t be able to walk in them for very long, no matter how stylish or attractive they are. Pay attention to the cushioning, arch support, and straps (both placement and padding).

Support and Stability

Look for sandals that have good stability and will keep your feet securely in place. Ideally, according to Dr. Roussel, you’ll want a sandal with straps to hold the front part of the foot as well as the heel and ankle. He notes that slide-type sandals don’t provide proper ankle stability as the foot tends to flop around, making it easier to get injured.

Protection

Some sandals leave your feet more exposed than others, and the amount of protection you need will depend on your planned activity. If you intend on wearing your sandals for running errands or other casual wear, you don’t need to worry too much about open-toe designs. But if hiking and walking on unpaved trails is on your radar, you’ll need sandals with an enclosed toe for more protection.

Style

Function and comfort are the most important elements to consider when buying a pair of walking sandals, but style can also be a big factor. Be careful when choosing your sandals to ensure the heel height and materials are practical for your planned activities.

Straps

The sandals’ straps should be snug and secure but not tight, and there should be enough room for your toes to wiggle freely, according to Dr. Mills. Adjustability on the forefoot and ankle straps is beneficial for getting a more precise fit and is especially important if you have wide feet, Bjorkman says.

Soles

Good traction is crucial for staying steady and sure-footed as you’re walking in sandals, especially if you’re walking on slick or uneven surfaces. Look for sandals with soles made with a durable, grippy material like rubber. For hiking, you’ll want soles with lugs that can handle more challenging terrain like loose dirt or rocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is walking in sandals bad for you?

Walking in sandals that aren’t supportive can lead to heel pain, sore feet, and arch pain. According to Dr. Roussel, it‘s much easier to twist an ankle walking long distances in sandals if they do not have straps to support the foot, heel, and ankle. He says that if the foot is constantly moving around, friction blisters can begin forming on the toes from trying to grip onto the sandal or constantly scraping against the edges.

Walking in open-toe sandals also increases the risk of injury and issues from exposure to rocks, roots, poison ivy, and other elements.

How do you stop sandals from squeaking when walking?

New sandals can squeak or make a suction noise because of air escaping from between the layers in the sole. This often happens with sandals that have foam cushioning, which compresses as you walk. If you'd like to avoid this noise, you can lubricate the insoles with a product such as baby powder or petroleum jelly. The problem may also go away on its own over time when the foam remains compressed rather than bouncing back into place.

Squeaking or suction noises in sandals may also be caused by sweaty feet. Since most people wear sandals without socks, foot sweat is not easily absorbed, and the extra moisture can cause a squeak as you walk. Sprinkling a bit of talcum or baby powder on the insole of your sandals can prevent the build-up of sweat.

If the bottoms of your sandals squeak on slick floors, try rubbing sandpaper on the sole of the sandal. When they’re not smooth on the bottom, they won't squeak as easily.

Can you walk long distances in sandals?

Walking long distances in sandals that don’t have the right support or fit can lead to heel pain, sore feet, blisters, and twisted ankles. In most cases, a walking or running shoe is a safer option for walking long distances. That being said, if you choose a supportive, comfortable sandal with good traction and straps that allow for a secure fit and don’t cause irritation, it can be a suitable alternative for walking long distances.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, marathon runner, personal trainer, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes to clients and friends. To walk in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for walking shoes and replacing them regularly.

1 Source
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Umar H, Idrees W, Umar W, Khalil A, Rizvi ZA. Impact of routine footwear on foot health: A study on plantar fasciitis. J Family Med Prim Care. 2022;11(7):3851-3855. doi:10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_637_21