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14 Best Walking Sandals for Women, According to Experts
Whether for long distances, travel or day-to-day arch support, you don't need to sacrifice style for comfort.
We updated this guide in May 2023 to include new recommendations and shopping tips from podiatrists and footwear experts.
Whether walking long distances on your daily commute, exploring new terrain on a hike or just running errands in your neighborhood, you need a pair of comfortable sandals that's up to the job. And if you're looking to upgrade your walking shoes, the footwear experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have you covered.
We teamed up with podiatrists and physicians to find the most comfortable sandals for women with every type of feet, including those experiencing plantar fasciitis or bunions. When shopping for a good walking shoe, you want to look for ample cushioning and arch support as well as lightweight and breathable construction. Overall, "they need to be comfortable immediately, otherwise it's the wrong shoe for you, size or fit," advises Ira Deming, D.P.M., a podiatrist and three-time chair of of the podiatric surgery subsection at John Hopkins Medicine's Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland.
Our top picks:
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
After checking out our reviews, you'll find more expert advice and shopping tips for finding the most comfortable walking sandals at the bottom of this guide. Going on a trip? Pair your new sandals with one of our favorite travel dresses and fanny packs for the ultimate vacation look.
Vionic Rest Amber Backstrap Sandal
Pros
- Fashionable orthotic shoes
- Soft microfiber-wrapped footbed
- Leather upper
Cons
- Heavier weight at 8 oz. per shoe
Vionic's designs are so fashionable, you can’t even tell they're orthotic shoes. "Vionic shoes keep my feet pain-free all day without having to wear ugly orthotics," raves on GH tester. For comfortable walking, these popular sandals have a super-soft, microfiber-wrapped footbed and rubber outsole with a leather upper. Note that this pair is a bit heavier than some of the other styles on our list, but we love that they're available in both medium and wide widths. Plus, they easily transition from day to night and are offered in multiple styles and shades.
Materials: Microfiber wrapped cork footbed, rubber outsole and leather upper | Style: Fashion with Velcro backstrap | Size range: 5-12 with medium and wide sizing
Teva Women's Tirra Sandal
Teva Women's Tirra Sandal
Pros
- Designed to wear on the trails
- Great arch support and traction
- Sweat wicking materials
Cons
- Active design not suited for dressier wear
Expert hikers and everyday trailblazers adore these durable sandals from Teva which are especially great for uneven terrain and long walks. The contoured footbed is designed to support your arch while providing cushioning to absorb impact. "Even on cobblestone streets, which can kill one's feet and ankles, they were super comfy the whole time," said one GH tester who wore them on vacation.
Our fiber scientists appreciate this pair's durable rubber outsole for extra grip and multiple adjustable Velcro straps for a snug fit, keeping you supported mile after mile. Plus, the polyester webbing upper is designed to dry quickly. Say goodbye to wet, sweaty feet! Just note that this pair has a more active design that's better suited for adventurous trips versus city wear.
Materials: EVA midsole, rubber outsole and REPREVE recycled polyester upper | Style: Active with velcro closure | Sizes: 5-12
Dr. Scholl's Women's Islander Sandal
Dr. Scholl's Women's Islander Sandal
Pros
- Anatomical footbed
- Trendy, versatile design
- Short wedge for lift
Cons
- Not designed to wear in inclement weather
A supportive shoe helps prevent foot pain, whether you have specific foot conditions or not. Plantar fasciitis is a type of foot pain that is caused when the tissue connecting your heel and toes becomes inflamed. Our pros appreciate that these walking sandals by Dr. Scholl's feature a contoured midsole that keeps the pressure off your arches — very important to look for in plantar fasciitis shoes.
With a tiny wedge and adjustable straps, reviewers rave that these are the "best summer shoes, hands down!" While many walking shoes have an active design, this pair is stylish and trendy, easy to wear with shorts, skirts and jeans alike. The outsole is not as durable or grippy as other pairs, so we recommend wearing this pair on casual outings in good weather conditions.
Materials: Synthetic materials with molded footbed and microfiber upper | Style: Fashion with stretchy straps | Sizes: 6-11
Chaco Z/1 Classic Sandal
Chaco Z/1 Classic Sandal
Pros
- Molded footbed for excellent arch support
- Snug fit with adjustable straps
- Grippy rubber outsole
Cons
- The straps are too narrow, according to some reviewers
On busy days where you're running around, you need a pair of durable sandals that offer plenty of support. This pair from Chaco is ideal. One tester said they are "a game-changer for someone who never bought into the concept of walking sandals" and were immediately impressed with "how effortless walking feels now with these sandals." The straps, albeit a bit narrow, are easy to adjust to fit a variety of foot shapes. The molded footbed offers great arch support while the grippy rubber outsole keeps you grounded on all types of terrain.
Materials: PU midsole, rubber outsole and polyester upper | Style: Active with adjustable straps | Sizes: 5-12 with wide sizing; whole sizes only
NAOT Kayla Sandal
Pros
- Nearly 40 color options
- Easy to dress up from day to night
- Suede wrapped footbed offers ample support
Cons
- Not designed to get wet
These sandals are a must if you're traveling, since you can wear them while sightseeing or dancing the night away. The cork and latex footbed is designed to fit your arches without a long break-in period; plus, it's wrapped in suede that will adjust to your specific foot shape. These stylish sandals come in nearly 40 colors, including sea green, black patent leather and silver. Just note that because of the luxe materials, this pair will stay in better condition if you avoid rainy weather and keep them dry.
Materials: Suede-wrapped cork and latex footbed, EVA sole and leather upper | Style: Fashion with Velcro closure | Sizes: 3-13.5 with narrow and wide sizing
Teva Original Universal Sandal
Teva Original Universal Sandal
Pros
- Over 40 color and pattern options
- Footbed offers excellent cushioning
- Ideal for adventure and travel
Cons
- Only available in whole sizes
The EVA foam footbed and adjustable straps on this versatile pair of sandals from Teva making them ideal for hiking or any sort of adventure. "Instantly comfy right out of the box," raved one GH analyst after wearing this pair on a vacation to Mexico. "These sandals were perfect to wear when walking around the resort or on. hike, staying comfy all day!"
The adjustable straps go over the front of the foot and around the ankle, making this a great option for people with wider or narrower feet. It's also easy to find a style you love, since this pair is available in over 40 shades and patterns. We also love the platform version if you're looking for extra height — just note that this pick is available only in whole sizes.
Materials: Molded EVA foam footbed, rubber outsole and polyester upper | Style: Active with Velcro backstrap | Sizes: 5-12 with whole sizes only
Clarks Leisa Cacti Slide Sandal
Clarks Leisa Cacti Slide Sandal
Pros
- Narrow, medium and wide sizing
- Three adjustable straps for a perfect fit
- Over 6,000 rave Amazon reviews
Cons
- Prices vary by size and color
Whether you have bunions, hammertoe or just wider feet, these slides are designed to be comfy. Coming in either narrow, medium or wide, there is a pair meant for your feet. We were impressed that there are three adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit. The orthotic footbed is designed for support while the rubber outsole makes walking in them a breeze. For a stylish touch, this pick features trendy stitching details and a short heel. Note that prices differ by color and size on Amazon.
Materials: Ortholite footbed, EVA outsole and leather upper | Style: Slides with Velcro closure | Sizes: 5-12 with narrow and wide sizing
MUNRO Summer Sandal
MUNRO Summer Sandal
Pros
- Six different width options
- Contoured footbed
- Velcro ankle strap with chic leather detailing
Cons
- Tend to run a bit small
If you feel like you're swimming in your sandals, we recommend looking for sandals designed for women with narrow feet. These sandals by Munro are available in a whopping six different widths, including super slim and narrow (as well as wide and extra wide options, ideal for those with wide feet too). With a Velcro ankle strap, these sandals stay in place when on the move. The brand and online reviewers recommend ordering half a size up, as they tend to run a bit small.
Materials: Microfiber covered cork and latex footbed, XL Extralight outsole an leather upper | Style: Fashion with Velcro straps | Sizes: 5-12 with super slim, narrow, medium, wide and extra wide options
Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor Sandals
Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor Sandals
Pros
- 80 color options
- Contoured footbed
- Great for flat feet
Cons
- No backstrap, so not designed for longer distances
First launched in the '80s, these Birkenstock sandals have a loyal following that includes multiple GH staffers, some of whom have been buying pairs of these sandals for over 15 years.
Gizeh Birkenstocks come in multiple styles, with some featuring large buckles or braided details. There's even a waterproof option! Among 24,000 Amazon reviews, many love that they're available in over 80 shades with many reviewers buying multiple colors. The contoured footbed conforms to the shape of your foot, making these sandals comfier as they age. Just note that because this pair is a slide-style sandal, it's not suitable for longer distances or rougher terrain.
Materials: Suede-lined cork and latex footedbed, EVA outsole and leather upper | Style: Slides with buckle closure | Sizes: 5-15 with narrow sizing
KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals
KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals
Pros
- Arch support and cushioning
- Keeps toes fully protected
- EVA midsole absorbs shock
Cons
- Lower appearance scores
From water parks to river exploring, these sandals are up for any water adventure. Keen’s “Metatomical Footbed” design is meant to provide arch support and comfy cushioning with an EVA midsole. Since the rubber sole extends upward, your toes are kept secure and protected, which is an absolute must for adventurous hiking sandals, according to our GH Institute footwear pros, even if they did receive lower appearance scores. The bungee lace detail ensures a snug fit and the polyester upper is waterproof so these sandals won’t weigh you down after any water activities. We love that these are machine-washable, too!
Materials: EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole and polyester upper | Style: Active closed toe with bungee straps | Sizes: 5-12
Sorel Roaming Multi Strap Sandals
Sorel Roaming Multi Strap Sandals
Pros
- Multiple adjustable straps
- Secure ankle strap for extra stability
- Grippy outsole
Cons
- Online reviewers note that this pair isn't suitable for wide feet
Finding a pair of shoes that looks stylish without hurting your feet can be quite a challenge. Finally finish your search with this comfy, chic pair from Sorel. It features trendy gladiator-style straps that secure around your ankle for extra support and stability. The velcro straps help offer a snug fit. We love that this pair has a molded footbed to support your arches and a durable outsole for extra grip.
Materials: EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole and leather upper | Style: Fashion with Velcro straps | Sizes: 5-11
Taos Trulie Sandal
Pros
- Platform and wedge heel for added height
- Woven braided details
- Molded footbed offers arch support
Cons
- Not designed for uneven terrain
Shoes with added height are known for being uncomfortable, causing foot pain when worn for long periods. But this pair from Taos has a 0.5" platform and 1.5" wedge heel that doesn't sacrifice comfort. The molded footbed offers ample arch support and the adjustable closures keep your foot secure. The braided details are chic, making this a great travel shoe too. The added height makes this pair a bit less stable, so avoid uneven terrain in this pick.
Materials: Suede-lined footbed, rubber outsole and leather upper | Style: Fashion with Velcro straps | Sizes: 5-12 with wide sizing
ECCO Yucatan Sport Sandal
ECCO Yucatan Sport Sandal
Pros
- EVA molded footbed with soft microfiber covering
- Leather upper
- Three adjustable straps
Cons
- Some online reviewers recommend going up a size
When walking for exercise, opt for a style that will keep your foot stabilized with excellent arch support. This pick has a lightweight EVA molded footbed and a durable outsole, which is why testers love this pair. They rave that they don't cause blisters and have excellent traction on uneven terrain. We appreciate that this pair offers great support without feeling too bulky or heavy. There are three adjustable straps to get a secure fit. Online reviewers recommend going up a size to get a proper fit.
Materials: EVA footbed, PU midsole, rubber outsole and leather and neoprene upper | Style: Active with Velcro straps | Sizes: 4-12 whole sizes only
Vionic Rest Bella Toe Post Sandal
Vionic Rest Bella Toe Post Sandal
Pros
- Built in arch support with foam midsole
- Break in perfectly to your foot shape over time
- Dozens of color options
Cons
- Not designed for long walks
Podiatrists tend to recommend avoiding flip-flops, as most offer no support, but our pros found Vionic's better flip-flop. This pick has built-in arch support and a shock-absorbing foam midsole. This pair is specifically designed for people with flat feet or plantar fasciitis, but shouldn't be worn on long walks as they don't offer ample stability. These easy slip-on sandals may need some time to break in to get them extra comfy. With a chic bow and dozens of color options, this pair is not only more supportive than most flip-flops, but also more stylish.
Materials: Microfiber-covered footbed, EVA midsole and rubber outsole with a patt| Style: Fashion slides | Sizes: 5-12 with narrow and wide sizing
How we chose the best walking sandals for women
The Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab tests all types of footwear, including walking shoes, running sneakers and hiking boots. Every year, hundreds of our consumer testers try out top styles, and our pros will even saw shoes in half so that podiatrists can analyze the footbed to see if they give proper arch support.
For this story, our analysts tried out multiple versions of several top walking sandal styles firsthand and had consumer testers wear a few, as well. Using our expertise on brand performance, shoe fit and construction, we are able to recommend styles that will support your arches and look great for all-day wear. We also interviewed Dr. Ira Deming, D.P.M. to help provide expert shopping tips to ensure you find the most comfortable sandals for you.
What to look for when shopping for a walking sandal
After interviewing multiple podiatrists and physicians over the years, we continue to hear that comfort should be prioritized when shopping for shoes. Innovative features just don’t matter if your feet hurt! "It can be a challenge, saying it mildly, to find a pair you like cosmetically and a pair you’ll be comfortable in," Dr. Deming says.
Below are considerations to keep in mind when shopping for walking sandals to ensure they’ll not only feel comfy, but stay in excellent shape wear after wear.
✔️ Sizing: Deming suggests starting your shopping journey by considering your shoe size. He says many women are actually wearing the completely wrong size shoe! Make sure to consider the width and height of your foot to prevent any pressure build-up in the toebox. Try styles with wide or narrow options if you experience any discomfort in the toebox.
✔️ Fit: When you try on the shoe, make sure your toes aren't cramped. There should be a little less than half an inch of space between your big toe and the front of the shoe when your heel is all the way at the back of the shoe, according to Deming.
✔️ Adjustable straps: For the best fit — and one that's customizable as your feet swell through the day — you'll want adjustable straps. Some styles have one adjustable strap, but adjustable straps on the back and across the top help the sandals fit even better.
✔️ Contoured footbed: Many fashion sandals have a completely flat footbed, but for sandals that you'll wear walking all day, choose footbeds with arch support and cushioning materials like foam.
✔️ Durable materials: Leather is pricier than synthetic materials, but it tends to last well over time while feeling soft and supple. When it comes to athletic styles, nylon is an excellent option. Deming suggests looking for stretchy materials if you have bunions or hammertoe as it can better accommodate your foot shape.
✔️ Try on at the end of day: "Your feet swell throughout the day, so you will find a more true size if you measure your feet at the end of the day," explains Dr. Deming. We recommend trying on shoes at the end of the day instead of the morning to find your best fit.
✔️ Any reason return policies: When shopping for shoes online, make sure you can return the shoes if you try them on at home and they're not comfortable. Comfort should be your number one priority!
Top questions about walking sandals, answered by footwear experts
What are the best shoes for plantar fasciitis?
✔️ Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, causing pain in your heel. Dr. Deming advises that "you want to control the flattening of the arch." You need a shoe that will keep your arch from collapsing and it's easier to find this type of support in a walking sneaker, but says Dr. Deming is impressed with how many more sandals are available with ample arch support these days.
Can you wear walking sandals for long distances?
✔️ If you are planning on walking or hiking many miles over many days, you likely need a shoe more supportive than a walking sandal. Dr. Deming especially notes to avoid walking too much in heeled sandals as heels make the arch higher "which can put less tension on the arch, but will cause problems over time." Look for adjustable straps, arch support and a comfortable fit when buying a pair of sandals for extensive walking.
Why does my foot hurt after wearing sandals?
✔️ Some shoes are just not right for our feet, no matter how stylish they are! If you are having constant foot pain with your current sandals, it's time to get a new pair. You may be gripping your toes at the front of the sandal, which means the sandals don't fit properly. The toebox should be fitted to your foot without feeling cramped, so look for adjustable top straps to get your best fit. Dr. Deming suggests speaking with a podiatrist if you have specific concerns with footwear shopping to make sure your feet are properly taken care of.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has been a leading expert on footwear for decades. For the past three years, Emma Seymour has been overseeing GH Institute Lab and consumer tests for walking shoes, workout shoes and running shoes, testing over 50 different sneakers alone. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience, particularly focused on athletic wear. To learn even more about what to look for in the best walking sandals, she interviewed Ira Deming, D.P.M., an expert podiatrist, for this story.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
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