Sandals make a fashion statement, but they’re also designed to give your feet traction and protection against pavement, gravel and other rough surfaces. They’re versatile enough to take you from beach to bar and back again.
The best sandals offer smart features like flexible straps that cradle your foot and reduce strain. Some of the most comfortable options even come with a wedge that shifts your weight off tender areas like your heels.
They’re comfortable
Sandals are designed to be comfortable and supportive. Unlike flip flops and other slide styles of Roman Sandals, sandals that feature a thick strap across the forefoot provide support and help keep your foot locked down. This reduces strain on your feet, helping you avoid common problems like bunions and hammer toes.
The right sandals can also offer cushioning and arch support, which are important for healthy feet. Look for a padded footbed that molds to the shape of your feet and a heel strap that supports the back of your foot.
Sandals can be a great option for walking, especially in hot or tropical climates and near water, but you should choose a pair with enough support for a full day of sightseeing. If you’re going to walk in sandals, try a pair with a sturdy rubber sole that can handle any terrain and soft EVA or Super EVA foam that absorbs shock and cushioning.
They’re stylish
Sandals leave part of the foot exposed to air and sunlight, and can be a fashionable footwear option. They come in a range of styles, from traditional flip-flops to huaraches, woven leather sandals popular in Mexico. These shoes have the added benefit of being comfortable and easy to walk in.
Although sandals can be stylish, it is important to select the right pair for your needs. It is also important to know that sandals don’t offer the same support and protection as boots or trail runners. They may not be suitable for multi-day hikes over rough and rocky terrain.
However, sandals can still be great for casual wear, especially those that are made with stretchy neoprene lining to promote a close and flexible fit. Additionally, they are lightweight and can be worn in warmer weather. If you decide to purchase a pair of sandals, make sure they are made with a waterproof material and have drainage cutouts.
They’re practical
Sandals don’t have to be clunky or ugly, but the defining features are usually practical ones. For example, a pair of shoes with a moderate heel-to-toe drop shifts the weight of your foot to the forefoot and helps reduce stress on the heels. Another practical feature is shock absorption. Sandals with a cork footbed are light and supple, and they conform to the shape of your feet so they feel barely there.
The oiled leather uppers of Birkenstock’s flagship Arizona sandal mold to your feet and have a barely-there feel underfoot. However, they aren’t designed for hiking (or anything other than casual day hikes). The company’s Milano model adds a heel strap to the Arizona’s design to make them more comfortable for hiking and light outdoor adventures. The sandals also have drainage cutouts and a stretchy neoprene lining to keep your feet cool and dry. This style is available in a variety of colors and upper materials.
They’re versatile
The deciding factors when buying sandals come down to style and comfort. If your sandals don’t fit well or don’t support your feet, they will cause discomfort even if they are fashionable. Fortunately, the top-rated sandals combine smart details with stylish designs that are actually comfortable to walk in.
If you’re planning on hiking and walking in your sandals, look for ones with a moderate heel-to-toe drop to absorb impact and shift your weight off tender areas like the heels. Also look for a padded or pillow-like section on the sole to cushion your foot.
Sandals are available in a variety of colors. Black, for example, goes with many outfits and looks very stylish without being too loud or overpowering. White sandals are a good choice for light neutrals and patterned outfits, while nude sandals are suitable with most clothing. Jelly sandals or “jellies,” which are made of translucent soft plastic in bright colors, are often sold along the Texas coast at beach side gift shops.