Fashion
9 Summer Sandals That Are Actually Comfortable
As the weather gets warmer, it's time to slowly update our shoe rotation from go-to booties to wear-with-anything sandals. They're a spring and summer staple, so while a style you love is important, it doesn't count for much if they're not comfy AF. To avoid getting stuck with months of blisters and foot pain, opt for sandals that are actually comfortable, according to reviewers.
Sadly, some of my favorite sandals style-wise have only seen the summer sun a handful of times. Nothing goes against carefree afternoons and relaxed, warm evenings like a pair of shoes that kill your feet. So when I see a shoe with a bunch of not-great reviews now, it makes me think twice. On the flip side, I'm willing to trust my fellow online shoppers when the majority of them are applauding how comfortable a sandal is.
Whether you're looking for heeled or flat sandals for a wedding, a festival, or just to kick around in, here are the ones reviewers swear are comfy. Of course, everyone's feet are different, but I'd say your chances are pretty good with these top-rated picks. Plus, there's no better reason to treat yourself to a fresh pedicure than an new pair of sandals, right?
1. UGG Lecia Tassel Thong Sandals
UGG Lecia Tassel Thong Sandals, $135, Nordstrom
UGGs are no longer reserved for cozy, cold winter days. "These sandals are super cute and comfy," writes Dillards reviewer "ND." "A lot of flat sandals do not have any support. These have a padded insole and moderate arch support so they are super comfortable."
2. Born Arica Sandals
Born Arica Sandals, $85, Zappos
"I've just never been able to beat Born for comfort and durability in the sandal department. The sandal provides great support and is very cute," says an anonymous Zappos reviewer. Many also mention that the brand's shoes tend to fit perfectly right out of the box, so no break-in period. (I've had good luck with them, too.)
3. Steve Madden Women's Rizzaa Heeled Sandal
Steve Madden Women's Rizzaa Heeled Sandal, $56, Amazon
No joke, I ordered these after reading through all of the rave reviews. "LOVE these shoes," writes Amazon reviewer Kassandra. "[They're] designed well and feel expensive for the price - no blistering.... I'm a little tall, so these are perfect for occasions where I want to wear something with a heel but not feel like I'm towering over people."
4. Sam Edelman Gigi Thong Sandal
Sam Edelman Gigi Thong Sandal, $60, Amazon
Sam Edelman's signature sandal is a fan favorite for comfort, and it comes in endless colors and patterns. Amazon reviewer Jayme M. writes, "these fit great, they're comfortable enough to walk about 3 miles in....I can wear them dressed up or down. I want to buy another pair! I'd definitely recommend these, worth the price for the comfort [and] great quality." I can vouch for these, too — they're seriously comfortable.
5. SÖFFT Mira Ankle Strap Sandal
SÖFFT Mira Ankle Strap Sandal, $90, Nordstrom
These platform sandals are giving me Hercules vibes, and I'm not mad about it. Nordstrom reviewer JHTY wrote, "bought [these] for my trip to Napa and totally loved [them]! Stylish yet extremely comfortable. We walked a lot and no complaints here!"
6. Sanuk Yoga Sling
Sanuk Yoga Sling, $38, Sanuk
You'll never need to step off the zen of a yoga mat when your sandals are literally made from one. "These are so so comfortable. They are like walking on little clouds....They're durable and last long, I've had mine for over 2 years and wear them all the time," says reviewer AubEv on Amazon.
7. Rockport Cobb Hill Gabby Heeled Sandal
Rockport Cobb Hill Gabby Heeled Sandal, $110, Amazon
If you have a hard time letting go of bootie season, these sandals provide some stylish middle ground (and they have one of the highest average ratings on Amazon, too). Reviewer Barbara L. Anketell says, "These shoes are a miracle! Not only are the really stylish — they have arch supports, come in wide sizes and have non-slip bottoms! I love them so much I've purchased 4 pairs! They are like walking on air!" (Psst — Rockport just added new colors on their website.)
8. Cambiami Interchangeable Custom Sandals
Cambiami Interchangeable Custom Sandals, $128, Amazon
Cambiami's sandals are entirely customizable on their website — you choose from a huge range of base colors and strap color and material. Plus, the straps are interchangeable, so you can mix and match. Amazon reviewer Shoe Fanatic is all about them: "Can I just say I LOVE these sandals?! I really like this style of shoe and was excited to find a pair with memory foam in the sole. While it's not "cushy" it's also not like walking on a board like most flat sandals. The base is high quality (they even offer a vegan version if you prefer that), [and] I am looking forward to putting them to good use on a trip abroad, this will certainly make packing a lot easier."
9. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals
Birkenstock Arizona Sandals, $92-$125, Amazon
The epitome of the "ugly cute" shoe, I don't know if I've ever loved a pair of sandals as much as I love my Birks. They're ridiculously comfortable once your feet get used to them. Now, I can't survive a summer without them, and reviewers have had similar experiences. "After just a couple of wears they're forming to my feet and creating that 'personalized fit' that Birkenstocks are so well-known for," wrote reviewer cebrown on Urban Outfitters' site.