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Sunday, December 21, 2025

The 18 Greatest Strolling Sandals of 2025, Examined


Teva Zymic Women’s Sandal

Credit score: Amazon
Professionals

  • Antimicrobial remedy

  • Padded, adjustable straps

  • Made with recycled supplies

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11, Males’s 7-14 | Closure: Adjustable straps | Cushioning: Reasonable | Supplies: Textile and recycled plastic higher, textile lining, foam footbed, recycled foam midsole, recycled foam and rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for these searching for a light-weight mountaineering, journey, or all-day put on sandal.

Why We Love Them

Snug, supportive, and sturdy, Teva’s Zymic Sandal was a straightforward selection for our prime choose for greatest general strolling sandals. With contoured arch assist, a well-cushioned footbed, and a versatile sole, this pair was comfy sufficient to put on all day lengthy. The sneakers are additionally handled with an antimicrobial coating to maintain them odor-free. Plus, we like that they are made with recycled foam, plastic, and rubber, so you’ll be able to be ok with carrying a extra sustainable shoe.

On check walks, we observed that this sandal felt light-weight and soft underfoot, with wonderful assist and stability. The grippy rubber outsole stored us surefooted and regular on uneven terrain. We additionally like this sandal’s open-toe design and padded, adjustable straps, which stored our toes in place with out inflicting painful irritation or blisters. Trendy and simple to put on, this selection presents nice worth for an on a regular basis strolling sandal.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon and Teva.

Potential Flaws

  • Like different Teva sandals, the Zymic doesn’t are available in half sizes. However it’s price noting that we didn’t have any points with the match throughout testing.
  • On some walks, we observed sweat build up beneath the arches of our toes, indicating that the Zymic’s sole isn’t as breathable as others we examined. Nonetheless, this didn’t have an effect on the sandals’ general consolation.

Meet Our Testers

Each of our testers get pleasure from strolling for train. One tester goals for at the least 10,000 steps a day in between strolling her canine and operating errands. Since she has wider toes, she prefers a extremely adjustable sandal so she will be able to discover the fitting match. The opposite tester was already a fan of Tevas earlier than testing these out and was to see if the Zymic would meet her excessive expectations. Each testers love this sandal’s tender foam footbed, strong assist, and chunky sole, which exceed their expectations when it comes to consolation.

Merrell Women's Terran 4 Slide

Credit score: Amazon
Professionals

  • Shock-absorbing sole

  • Stable odor management

  • Colourful accent design

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11 (medium, broad) | Closure: Hook-and-loop strap | Cushioning: Most | Supplies: Leather-based and recycled textile higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for people who spend their days on their toes and search fashionable, comfy, and supportive strolling sandals.

Why We Love Them

Merrell’s Terran 4 Slide is a slip-on sandal that gives adjustability, consolation, and magnificence, making it our best choice for girls’s strolling sandals. The shock-absorbing outsole makes it simple to put on all day with out inflicting foot fatigue. And the froth and microfiber insole is tender and soft. We additionally admire the pure odor management remedy; we observed no odor in any respect throughout testing. These sandals can be found in 5 colours and in medium and broad widths so you may get the right fi.

The sandals provide wonderful shock absorption within the heel and simply the correct quantity of curve within the outsole to create clean transitions with out being too bouncy. The arch assist feels good, and the sandals match true to dimension—no digging or chafing anyplace. The hook-and-loop strap throughout the highest permits an adjustable, safe match. We additionally love the colourful accent strap, which provides a contact of aptitude and magnificence.

Potential Flaws

  • We discovered the match of those sandals to be good throughout our check; nevertheless, some wearers have famous that the hook-and-loop strap is just too excessive on the foot and causes their foot to slip out of the sandal.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester is on their toes all day and enjoys strolling for train. She wears a number of types of sneakers however would not have a favourite model. She selected to check these slides as a result of Merrell is a trusted model, and she or he appreciated the fashion of the sandals. These sandals actually didn’t disappoint and allowed her to simply put on all of them day, with no foot fatigue or irritation.

REI Merrell Men's Maipo Explorer Sieve Sandals

Credit score: REI

Key Specs

Sizes: Males’s 7-15, Ladies’s 5-11 | Closure: Elastic bungee | Cushioning: Reasonable | Supplies: Mesh and suede higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for lively people who need a sandal-shoe hybrid that gives safety and flexibility.

Why We Love Them

Merrell’s Maipo Explorer Sieve Sandal combines the consolation and breathability of a light-weight sandal with the assist and stability of a sturdy mountaineering shoe, incomes our prime spot for greatest males’s strolling sandals. Once we examined this sporty pair, we discovered that its powerful rubber outsole with a grippy lug sample provided distinctive traction on a wide range of surfaces. The plush foam cushioning stored our toes comfortable and guarded, whether or not we had been strolling on sidewalks or gravel paths. The sandals additionally felt springy and responsive, propelling us to the following step.

Throughout check walks, our toes stayed in place, due to the bungee lace system with toggles and adjustable heel strap. We additionally appreciated that the closed-toe design stored out rocks and particles when strolling on rougher terrain. The sturdy sandals additionally felt surprisingly mild and well-ventilated, given their ample cushioning and safety.

Additionally out there in girls’s sizes at Amazon, Merrell, Zappos, and REI.

Potential Flaws

  • Though we discovered the match to be comfy and safe, we thought the rear strap might be a bit tighter.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester walks about 11,000 steps every single day, largely for train. He selected the Maipo Explorer Sieve Sandals for his or her full toe protection and slip-on design. He likes that they’re very comfy to put on and didn’t slide off, even on rougher, uneven terrains.

Nordstrom Teva Women's Original Universal Sandals

Credit score: Nordstrom

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-13, Males’s 7-15 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Agency | Supplies: Recycled plastic higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.4/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for budget-conscious vacationers searching for light-weight strolling sandals to tackle the go.

Why We Love Them

For an adjustable, sturdy sandal at a budget-friendly worth, we suggest Teva’s Unique Common Sandal. Weighing simply 6 ounces, this is among the lightest sandals on our record, which means it received’t weigh you down on lengthy walks. Plus, the sneakers are simple to stash in a backpack or tote bag, making this pair certainly one of our prime picks for holidays or different journeys.

Throughout testing, we observed that the sandals’ three adjustable straps offered an ideal match. We additionally like that its easy, low-profile fashion pairs nicely with every little thing from yoga leggings to summer season clothes. With dozens of colours and patterns to select from, stocking up for the hotter months is straightforward. One other bonus? We discovered that these sandals are simple to scrub and dry rapidly, making them very best for seaside exercises or most summer season sports activities.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Dick’s Sporting Items.

Potential Flaws

  • The skinny midsole could not have sufficient stability or assist when you have flat toes or are strolling on tough terrain.
  • Throughout testing, we observed that the straps felt stiff and gave us just a few small blisters at first. However after just a few wears, the straps began to melt and really feel way more comfy.

Meet Our Testers

Each of our testers stroll a number of miles a day round their neighborhood and whereas operating errands. They have an inclination to gravitate towards sneakers in hotter climate, however wished to strive Teva’s Unique Common Sandals after listening to rave opinions from family and friends. One tester has needed to take care of plantar fasciitis signs and was happy to search out that these sandals didn’t irritate her heels or arches. Each testers agree that these sandals are light-weight, simple to scrub, and simple to pair with numerous informal put on.

Rykä Blissful Strappy Sandal

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-12 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Most | Supplies: Woven straps, molded foam insole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for wearers who need a fashionable design with a number of stability that travels nicely.

Why We Love Them

Ryka’s Blissful Strappy Sandals have tender straps, making them simple to pack, and are fashionable sufficient to go from sightseeing to an evening out. The higher straps are woven in a fisherman-style sample, and there are two hook-and-loop straps for most adjustability for an ideal match. The straps even offered loads of ankle assist. And we additionally assume the rose gold buckles are a trendy accent.

We just like the platform sole for its stability and the deep ridges that created some good traction. We wore these sandals on assorted and uneven terrain, akin to gravel and unfastened dust, and by no means felt unstable. They held our toes safe and regular. We expect they’re an ideal worth for his or her secure and classy design.

Potential Flaws

  • The deep ridges within the sole offered nice traction, however they collected small rocks and particles that we needed to clear out.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester has flat toes with some hypermobility in her ankles. She walks 6 to 7 miles a day for train, strolling her canine, and on a strolling pad throughout work. She likes any kind of shoe with a platform sole for further shock absorption and was excited to check these sandals for his or her colour and cute design. She loves that these sandals are extremely secure with strong traction and provide most adjustability for an ideal match.

Chaco Women's CushZ Toe-Loop Extra Cushioned Sandal

Credit score: Chaco

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-12, Males’s 7-15 | Closure: Buckle strap | Cushioning: Most | Supplies: Polyester straps, recycled foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for wearers who need good arch assist and agency cushioning for all-day put on.

Why We Love Them

Chaco’s CushZ Toe-Loop Sandals are extra-cushioned but present agency assist for all-day put on, akin to sightseeing or standing for lengthy intervals at work. We love the extra-thick padding that helps forestall foot and leg fatigue. The ankle strap is padded for consolation, and the adjustable buckle strap permits for an ideal match and simple changes for those who want the sandals tighter or looser.

The molded arch assist supported us and felt good after we needed to stand for a very long time. We discovered these sandals had the right mixture of firmness, padding, and suppleness. Moist surfaces had been no match for them due to their strong traction. And when the sandals acquired moist, they did not chafe our pores and skin and dried rapidly. We expect these sandals are moderately priced for his or her worth and are nicely price it for those who’re in your toes for lengthy intervals.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals will not be out there in half sizes, and the corporate recommends sizing up. Nonetheless, we sized down, they usually match completely, so getting the fitting dimension is perhaps difficult.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester has flat, broad toes with some overpronation and commonly walks on a treadmill and outdoor in numerous climate situations. She likes these sandals thick cushioning and that she will be able to put on them for prolonged intervals with none foot or leg fatigue. She additionally likes their cushioned and molded assist, they usually undoubtedly met her expectations for comfy all-day put on.

Merrell Women's Fleur Fisherman Sandal

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11 | Closure: Pull tab, hook and loop strap | Cushioning: Reasonable | Supplies: Leather-based higher, cork insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for many who want wonderful arch assist to assist forestall a plantar fasciitis flare-up.

Why We Love Them

In case you have a historical past of plantar fasciitis, take into account a shoe with thick soles and arched or well-cushioned insoles, akin to Merrell’s Fleur Fisherman Sandals. When testing this pair, our toes and joints felt well-supported and secure, whether or not we had been strolling on indoor or outside surfaces. We observed that the insoles delivered a good stability of cushion and firmness, offering assist precisely the place we would have liked it most.

We discovered that the thick, broad leather-based straps felt tender and clean, stopping chafing or irritation. Moreover, we admire that the sturdy rubber outsole gives grippy, dependable traction to maintain you regular in your toes. Effectively-made, light-weight, and classy, these versatile sandals are good for lively holidays and may be simply dressed up or down.

Potential Flaws

  • Throughout testing, we discovered the match to be comfy and safe, however we wished that we might pull the ankle strap a bit tighter.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester walks at the least three miles a day when commuting to work and operating errands, and in addition does health walks of six to 10 miles a few instances per week. She is aware of and trusts the Merrell model for its consolation, fashion, and assist. She was happy that these sandals exceeded her expectations, providing wonderful assist for her plantar fasciitis, whether or not strolling quick or lengthy distances.

Vivaia Kiara Sport Sandals

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11 | Closure: Hook-and-loop strap | Cushioning: Most | Supplies: Recycled plastic higher and outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for anybody who desires tremendous comfy strolling sandals with agency assist and loads of colour choices to select from.

Why We Love Them

Vivaia’s Kiara Sport Sandals proved tender, supportive, and breathable after we examined them, making them our best choice for essentially the most comfy strolling sandals. We like that they really feel versatile with out dropping assist, they usually’re simple to put on with any outfit due to their versatile design. The contoured sole has a slight curve, making the sandals really feel responsive, moderately than sluggish or sluggish.

The moisture-wicking, anti-microbial insole stored our toes cool and dry via lengthy, sizzling days. We love that the heel shock absorption prevents any hip and knee ache and the contoured footbed reduces strain factors and fatigue. Plus, we like how high-quality and sturdy these sandals really feel. They’re out there in 28 totally different colour combos, permitting you to select the right look.

Potential Flaws

  • Though we didn’t have any points with the shoe’s match, they don’t are available in broad sizes, which can be a problem for these with broad toes.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester commonly walks 3-5 miles a day for train, errands, and on a strolling pad throughout work. She has skilled blisters and chafing up to now with hiking-style sandals. She likes these sandals for his or her versatile design and added assist, permitting her to put on them comfortably with none ache or blisters, even on longer walks. These sandals met her expectations and carried out very nicely throughout testing, maintaining her toes cool, dry, and really comfy, even in sizzling climate.

Teva Women’s Tirra Hiking Sandal

Credit score: Teva
Professionals

  • Adjustable, padded straps

  • Simple to scrub

  • Excellent stability and traction on uneven terrains

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Agency | Supplies: Recycled plastic higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for wearers trying to stroll on the seaside, tidepool, or just benefit from the comfort of a water-friendly sandal.

Why We Love Them

To get essentially the most out of your seaside walks, we suggest Teva’s Tirra Sandal. Throughout testing, we observed that the contoured midsole offered comfy arch assist, even maintaining our painful plantar fasciitis signs at bay. We additionally observed that the froth cushioning helped take in shock with out feeling too squishy or compromising our stability.

The thick, sturdy rubber outsole delivers excellent stability, assist, and traction for traversing uneven terrain and moist situations. We additionally love that the totally padded straps are extremely adjustable, due to handy hook-and-loop closures that preserve our toes secure and safe. Cleansing these sneakers is straightforward—simply run them underneath water to take away any sand or dust. Even higher, this sandal has an antimicrobial remedy derived from peppermint that helps forestall odor-causing micro organism from rising.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals really feel about as springy as many tennis sneakers do. For a extra responsive sandal, it’s your decision a pair with softer cushioning. Nonetheless, for seaside strolling, we choose a extra secure possibility.

Meet Our Testers

Certainly one of our testers has excessive arches and wider toes, whereas the opposite is an underpronator with plantar fasciitis. The primary tester had points with sneakers being too slender up to now, so she appreciated that she might regulate these sandals for a greater match. The opposite tester appreciated that these are slimmer than her Teva Hurricane Sandals, with sufficient assist and rigidity to fight her plantar fasciitis signs.

Amazon NAOT Kayla Sandal

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 4-12.5 (slender, medium, broad) | Closure: Adjustable strap | Cushioning: Agency | Supplies: Leather-based or suede higher, cork and latex footbed, foam midsole and outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for these in want of arch assist, searching for a sandal that does not sacrifice fashion for consolation.

Why We Love Them

Do your excessive arches ache once you spend lengthy days in your toes? If that’s the case, we extremely suggest Naot’s Kayla Sandal. Throughout testing, the sandals’ cork and latex footbed felt agency however comfy. The raised arch provided assist proper the place we would have liked it essentially the most, permitting us to stroll lengthy distances with ease. And in contrast to different sandals we examined, this pair has a foam outsole for a lighter really feel.

We love that this sandal is available in three widths and has an adjustable, hook-and-loop ankle strap—plus, its easy, fashionable design pairs nicely with most wardrobes. We love that the sneakers really feel light-weight, stopping foot fatigue even whereas strolling on rocks and grass. However we aren’t the one followers of this sandal: This pair has additionally earned the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means a panel of podiatrists has decided that its design helps assist good foot well being.

Potential Flaws

  • We like that the ankle strap is adjustable, however we predict we might get an excellent higher match if the opposite two straps throughout the forefoot may be adjusted.
  • Those that don’t want further arch assist would possibly discover that these sandals really feel a bit too stiff or agency.

Meet Our Testers

Our testers rack up just a few miles each day on common walks and whereas operating errands. One tester underpronates, which means she wants a sandal with dependable arch assist to align her toes and forestall ache as she walks. The opposite tends to stay along with her favourite Asics sneakers as a result of she will be able to put on them for lengthy distances with out her toes feeling sore. Each testers selected to check this sandal for its modern design, they usually had been pleasantly shocked by how comfy it felt throughout testing, even when strolling lengthy distances on uneven terrains.

Nike Air Max Isla Sandals

Credit score: Nike
Professionals

  • Tremendous tender cushioning

  • Glorious assist

  • Stylish design

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-12, Males’s 4-11 | Closure: Elasticized slingback strap | Cushioning: Most | Supplies: Artificial higher and lining, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for many who need a comfortable, supportive platform sandal with a trendy aptitude.

Why We Love Them

If you happen to love the look and luxury of a platform sandal but in addition need dependable assist, Nike’s Air Max Isla Sandal could also be your very best shoe. With thick, velvety straps, tremendous tender cushioning, and a chunky sole, this pair presents stylish fashion and plush consolation with out sacrificing stability. From the second we slipped into them, we felt like we had been strolling on air, due to the soft footbed.

Throughout check walks, the sandals had been surprisingly supportive, particularly given their excessive platform. We by no means wobbled, and the plush straps helped preserve our toes securely in place. Plus, the sandals’ sturdy rubber outsole presents nice traction and sturdiness.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Nike.

Potential Flaws

  • Whereas energy strolling on this pair, we discovered that the sandals’ again straps began to squeeze and rub our heels, so they could be extra suited to informal put on moderately than fast-paced strolling.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester likes carrying sandals for informal put on or strolling, however has problem discovering a pair that doesn’t trigger blisters. She selected to check this sandal as a result of she’s a fan of Nike sneakers, and this pair seemed very comfy. Total, she was impressed with the sandal’s pillow-like cushioning, plush straps, and strong assist, in addition to its eye-catching fashion.

Amazon Reef Men's Cross-Shore Sandals

Credit score: Amazon
Professionals

  • Comfortable footbed with good shock absorption

  • Supportive ergonomic design

  • Trendy, light-weight, and sensible

Key Specs

Sizes: Males’s 7-13, Ladies’s 5-11 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Reasonable | Supplies: Nylon and polyester higher, sugarcane foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for wearers searching for a waterproof sandal for seaside days, water park journeys, or water sports activities.

Why We Love Them

Whether or not you’re kayaking, boating, or spending the day on the seaside, Reef’s Cross-Shore Sandals can deal with the surf and sand whereas maintaining your toes comfortable and supported. Once we examined this pair, we discovered that its sturdy development and waterproof supplies had been very best for water actions. The three adjustable straps allowed us to dial within the good match and held up nicely all through the testing.

Regardless of their light-weight really feel, the sandals’ soft foam midsole provided plush consolation and good shock absorption. We additionally discovered that the ergonomic design delivers optimum assist, which helps to cut back foot fatigue throughout walks. And when you head residence from the seaside, the sandals are simple to rinse off and dry rapidly. We additionally love that the rugged, fashionable design and built-in bottle opener on the underside make them good for yard cookouts or journeys to a brewery.

Additionally out there in girls’s sizes at Amazon and Reef.   

Potential Flaws

  • Though these sandals had been supportive and safe sufficient for informal strolling, they’re not appropriate for mountaineering on tough terrain.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester walks about two to a few miles a day, largely whereas strolling his canine. He has beforehand worn Reef flip-flops and likes the model’s high quality, so he was desperate to strive their sandals. The Cross-Shore Sandals exceeded his expectations when it comes to consolation, fashion, and efficiency.

Amazon Taos Women's The Show Sandals

Credit score: Amazon
Professionals

  • Excellent arch assist

  • Tender footbed and straps

  • Cool and breathable

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 6-11 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Reasonable | Supplies: Leather-based higher, microfiber lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for many who need a sturdy, comfy dressy sandal with loads of assist.

Why We Love Them

We suggest Taos’ The Present Sandal for its distinctive consolation and flexibility as an off-the-cuff or dressy strolling sandal. Once we examined this pair, we had been impressed with its excellent arch assist. The sandals offered the good stability of flexibility and sturdiness, and we observed that our toes had been well-supported however not too restricted.

These sandals are very responsive, so our stride felt springier and our toes had been extra energized, in comparison with after we put on different pairs. And the light-weight and breathable design stored our toes cool and cozy. Plus, the straps and footbed felt buttery tender and didn’t trigger any chafing, making this pair simple to put on for prolonged intervals.

Potential Flaws

  • When testing this pair, the strap was initially digging into our toes, however we had been capable of repair it with some changes.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester has common to broad toes and walks anyplace from 6,000 to 10,000 steps per day for errands and each day actions. She wished to do this possibility for its versatility as each an off-the-cuff and dressy strolling sandal. Up to now, she has struggled to search out sandals with respectable arch assist, however she was blown away by this pair’s wonderful assist and general consolation.

REI HOKA Women's Infini Hike TC Sandals

Credit score: REI

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-11, Males’s 7-14 | Closure: Buckle, hook and loop straps | Cushioning: Reasonable | Supplies: Recycled polyester and nylon webbing, sugarcane foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for these searching for a great sandal for mountaineering on mild to reasonable trails.

Why We Love Them

Want a sturdy, comfy sandal with higher traction for mountaineering? Hoka’s Infini Hike TC Sandals are our prime choose. With a deep heel cup and thick midsole, they’re designed to cushion your toes and supply good stability for hitting the paths. When testing these sporty sandals, they offered distinctive consolation and arch assist, together with good affect safety. We discovered this pair to be very best for touring, whether or not we had been traipsing via the airport or strolling on concrete, sand, gravel, or indoor surfaces.

We had been impressed by the sturdy rubber outsole, which provided distinctive traction on assorted terrain. And the three tender, adjustable straps stayed securely in place, due to the sturdy hook-and-loop closures. We had been additionally pleasantly shocked that the sandals felt light-weight and responsive, like a springy operating shoe.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and REI.

Potential Flaws

  • Though we appreciated the sandals’ match, we want the strap over the toe field might be made a bit tighter for these with slender toes.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester averages about 5,000 steps per day via health strolling and common each day actions. She wears Hoka Clifton Sneakers for her each day walks, so she was excited to strive one of many model’s sandals for warm-weather strolling. She likes that this pair has loads of assist for her excessive arches and feels springy, like Hoka sneakers.

Vivobarefoot Men's Tracker Sandal

Credit score: Vivobarefoot
Professionals

  • Grippy traction on dust, gravel, grass, and extra

  • Extremely sturdy and versatile

  • Extremely-packable and light-weight

Key Specs

Sizes: Males’s 7-15, Ladies’s 4.5-11 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Low | Supplies: Mesh higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for minimalist health walkers, hikers, or outside adventurers who need a barefoot strolling sandal.

Why We Love Them

If you happen to choose minimalist sneakers that enable for pure foot motion, we suggest Vivobarefoot’s Tracker Sandal. Throughout testing, we discovered that they provided an excellent grounded really feel whereas nonetheless offering good stability and safety for warm-weather adventures. This pair feels light-weight and versatile on our toes, permitting for simple, pure strides and fast transitions.

Though the sandal doesn’t have plush foam cushioning, it successfully absorbs affect, due to the thick rubber outsole. Moreover, this sturdy pair offered grippy traction, permitting us to really feel secure and assured on a wide range of terrains, together with dust, grass, pavement, and gravel. We’re additionally followers of the closed-toe design, which shields our toes when strolling on tough terrain, with out squishing our toes or inflicting blisters. And these sandals journey remarkably nicely–we had been capable of roll them up right into a small ball and simply tuck them right into a pack.

Additionally out there in girls’s sizes at Vivobarefoot.

Potential Flaws

  • Throughout our first put on, we observed some slight rubbing beneath the highest strap. Nonetheless, it wasn’t too bothersome and went away as we continued to put on the sandals.
  • With a closed toe field, this pair is just not as well-ventilated and breathable as open-toe sandals, so our toes acquired heat and a bit sweaty in sizzling climate.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester enjoys strolling for each day actions and health, notably as an lively restoration from operating. He particularly seeks out zero drop sneakers for strolling as a result of he likes the pure, close-to-ground really feel they provide. As he walked and hiked on this pair, he appreciated their ultra-minimalist design, sturdiness, and suppleness.

Frankie4 Women's Isla Slide

Credit score: Frankie4
Professionals

  • Versatile design may be dressed up or down

  • Glorious traction on sand, concrete, gravel, and rocky paths

  • Excessive-quality waterproof leather-based

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 6-13 | Closure: None | Cushioning: Low | Supplies: Leather-based higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for many who need a sexy, fashionable strolling sandal that may deal with slick surfaces and moist terrain.

Why We Love Them

Light-weight and simple to pack, Frankie4’s Isla Slides function an elegant fashion that may take them straight from the seaside to an evening out. Their modern, low-profile design may be simply dressed up or down, making them a flexible possibility for journey. Throughout a warm-weather trip, we discovered them to be good as waterproof seaside sneakers. Additionally they felt supportive and cozy as we walked on a wide range of surfaces, together with sand, concrete, gravel, and rocky paths.

The grippy rubber outsole stored us surefooted and regular on uneven terrain, steep hills, and slick concrete stairs throughout a tropical downpour. Moreover, the sandals felt ethereal and light-weight, permitting our toes to remain cool, even in extraordinarily sizzling and humid climate. We additionally love that the tender, clean leather-based straps didn’t trigger any rubbing or chafing.

Potential Flaws

  • In contrast to another sandals we examined, this pair doesn’t have adjustable straps. Nonetheless, we had no points with the sandals’ match and located that they stayed securely in place throughout walks.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester is a runner who walks about 10,000 steps on most days as a part of her each day routine and as a exercise calm down. She often wears comfortable sneakers or sandals for strolling. She likes that these sandals are very fashionable, with out sacrificing sensible options such pretty much as good arch assist and waterproofing. They exceeded her expectations when it comes to consolation and assist, whether or not worn to the seaside or out to dinner.

Frankie4 Thompson Black

Credit score: Frankie4
Professionals

  • Glorious arch and toe assist

  • Three adjustable, padded straps

  • Very fashionable

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 6-13 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Most | Supplies: Leather-based higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for many who need a fashionable, versatile sandal that gives further assist and padding, particularly underneath the arch and forefoot.

Why We Love Them

Frankie4’s Thompson Sandals stand out for his or her plush consolation and totally adjustable design. Throughout check walks, the well-padded midsole and strong arch assist stored our toes comfy and guarded. We put these sandals via the ringer—strolling in sizzling, humid situations on concrete, gravel, and dust—they usually carried out spectacularly.  

Made with high-quality, sturdy supplies, this pair held as much as repeated use and all-day put on. We additionally like this sandal’s open-toe design and three padded, adjustable leather-based straps, which stored our toes in place with out inflicting painful irritation or blisters. Trendy and simple to put on, they’re good as an on a regular basis strolling sandal.

Potential Flaws

  • This pair felt a bit heavier in comparison with different sandals we’ve tried, however we predict the additional weight from the cushioning and buckle detailing is a good trade-off.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester walks two to 5 miles a day as a operating calm down and through her each day routine. She usually wears comfortable strolling or trainers. She was drawn to those sandals due to their fashion and promised consolation and assist, they usually didn’t disappoint.

Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle Sandal

Credit score: Birkenstock
Professionals

  • Glorious stability and arch assist

  • Excessive-quality, sturdy design

  • Three adjustable straps that preserve toes securely in place

Key Specs

Sizes: Ladies’s 5-12.5 (medium, broad), Males’s 6-13.5 (medium, broad) | Closure: Adjustable straps with buckle | Cushioning: Agency | Supplies: Nubuck leather-based higher, cork-latex footbed, rubber outsole | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for these searching for wide-feet-friendly sandals for long-distance walks, which might be additionally engaging for informal put on.

Why We Love Them

For broad toes, we suggest Birkenstock’s Milano Large Buckle Sandal. We love that the three adjustable straps ship a extremely customizable match to accommodate toes of all styles and sizes. Throughout testing, the straps felt sturdy and prevented our toes from sliding round within the shoe. We additionally admire that the broad toe field gives ample room on the entrance, permitting your toes to splay out with out falling off the sting of the footbed.

These sandals function a contoured cork-latex footbed, which gives distinctive arch assist as we trekked round. Whereas the sandals’ cushioning isn’t thick or plush, it absorbs shock nicely (particularly within the heel). Plus, we observed that this pair felt extraordinarily well-made, with an eye catching design that garnered tons of compliments.

Additionally out there in males’s sizes at Amazon and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

  • Birkenstocks are inclined to really feel stiff initially. However you’ll be able to observe the producer’s simple directions for breaking them in so the footbed conforms to the form of your foot.
  • We love this sandal’s agency arch assist, but it surely doesn’t really feel as responsive as different, softer sandals we examined.

Meet Our Testers

Each of our testers stroll lengthy distances whereas operating errands and commuting to the workplace. They’re overpronators with excessive arches, in order that they want strolling sandals with loads of arch assist. They selected to check this sandal as a result of they love strolling in Birkenstock’s Traditional Arizona Sandal. Each testers assume the Milano and the Arizona really feel related, though they like the Milano’s stylish design.

Strolling Sandals We Additionally Examined

We spent over 4 months testing 53 strolling sandals, however solely 18 made it on our remaining record of suggestions. Though these pairs have some options we like, they finally didn’t meet our rigorous testing necessities.

  • We love the modern, streamlined fashion and light-weight design of FitFlop’s F-MODE Go Webbing Sling Sandals. Nonetheless, we discovered the only to be too exhausting for lengthy walks, and the webbing across the huge toe led to blisters and normal discomfort.
  • Reef’s Water Vista Sandals function a trendy design, comfortable cushioning, and nice grip and safety within the water. Nonetheless, we want that the straps had been padded, as they brought about irritation and chafing when worn in dry situations.

What We’ve Up to date

  • Since publishing our preliminary examined roundup of the very best strolling sandals, we’ve examined 11 new choices, bringing our whole to 53 pairs examined. We evaluated every pair for its match, design, stability, high quality, cushioning, responsiveness, and worth to search out the highest sandals available on the market.
  • Primarily based on our long-term testing and new insights, we’ve changed our picks for 5 superlatives, together with Greatest for Plantar Fasciitis, Greatest for Mountain climbing, and extra.
  • Primarily based on our testing insights, we’ve added three new superlatives: Greatest Barefoot, Most Trendy, and Greatest Cushioned.

Verywell Match


What to Search for When Looking for Snug Sandals

  • Assist: Search for sandals with a secure design that retains your toes securely in place. Based on podiatric surgeon Damian Roussel, DPM, FACFAS, your sandals ought to have straps to carry your forefoot, heel, and ankle. He notes that slide-type sandals lack correct ankle stability as a result of your toes are inclined to flop round once you put on them, thereby rising your threat of damage.
  • Safety: Some sandals go away your toes extra uncovered than others—the quantity of safety you want is dependent upon the place you’ll be carrying yours. For operating errands, you don’t want to fret an excessive amount of about open-toe designs. However for those who’re mountaineering and strolling on unpaved trails, sandals with enclosed toes are a should.
  • Fashion: Operate and luxury are an important issues to contemplate when shopping for a pair of strolling sandals, however fashion may also be a giant issue. Guarantee your sandals’ heel peak and supplies are appropriate for the placement and period of damage. 
  • Straps: The straps in your sandals ought to be comfortable and safe (however not too tight), permitting sufficient room in your toes to wiggle freely, in keeping with bodily therapist Brian Mills, PT, DPT. For a extra exact match, make sure the forefoot and ankle straps are adjustable—that is particularly vital when you have broad toes, in keeping with bodily therapist Eric Bjorkman, PT, MPT, CO.
  • Soles: Good traction is essential for staying regular and sure-footed as you’re strolling on slick or uneven surfaces. Search for sandals with outsoles comprised of a sturdy, grippy materials, like rubber. For mountaineering, you’ll need soles with deep lugs that may deal with difficult terrain.

Verywell Match


How We Examined the Strolling Sandals

To seek out the very best strolling sandals, we spent over 4 months testing 53 pairs of sandals, strolling in them for greater than 4,000 miles on numerous terrains. Our testing course of is guided by suggestions from consultants and the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation. Once we check strolling sandals at residence, we charge every pair based mostly on the next key attributes.

  • Match: Once we first strive them on, we be aware whether or not the sandals really feel comfortable round our heel and midfoot. Do our toes or heels stick out over the sting of the footbed? We use these observations to evaluate whether or not the sandals run small, massive, or true to dimension.
  • Design: We study the sandal’s design and general aesthetic. Is it versatile for various makes use of, akin to health and informal put on? Does it have any distinctive options, akin to buckles, cutouts, or a excessive heel peak, that stand out? Is there something we’d change in regards to the sandals’ look or design?
  • Stability: Throughout testing, we stroll on numerous surfaces, together with wooden and tile flooring, sidewalks, pavement, dust trails, and grass, and reply the next questions: How do the sandals really feel when strolling on uneven floor, up and down hills, and on stairs? How safe are the straps? We additionally full the bend and twist checks: First, we bend the toe again in direction of the heel. Then, we twist the footbed. Ideally, the sandal bends solely underneath the toes (not on the arch) and is tough to twist—this implies it’s secure.
  • Responsiveness: Responsive sneakers really feel springy underfoot and propel us to the following step. Do the sandals present fast transitions between steps, or do they really feel heavy on our toes?
  • Cushioning: As we stroll, we be aware how the cushioning feels. Is it plush or agency? Does it really feel even all through the footbed, or is there further padding in sure areas? We additionally verify to see if the straps are padded for consolation and safety in opposition to blisters.
  • High quality: Once we unbox the sandals, we examine them for any flaws, analyzing their supplies and development. We additionally proceed to verify the sandals for indicators of damage and tear throughout and after the testing interval.
  • Consolation: Do the sandals nonetheless really feel comfy after carrying them for hours? Are the supplies and straps tender and breathable? We prioritize sandals that don’t create irritation, sizzling spots, or painful blisters.
  • Worth: To precisely assess every shoe’s worth, we don’t verify its worth till the top of the testing interval, after we’ve rated it in all different key classes. Primarily based on our expertise, do we predict the sandal is priced pretty? Or would we solely purchase it if it went on sale? We additionally take into account whether or not we’d suggest the sandals to a buddy or member of the family.

Verywell Match


Our Specialists

We consulted consultants at every stage of our analysis, testing, and reporting course of. Some, like Diana Valencia, DPM, helped us create and refine our testing course of. Others, like Mills, Roussel, and Bjorkman, helped us perceive what to search for when purchasing for strolling sandals and the best way to inform if a sandal will really feel secure and supportive. We select merchandise independently, though enter from consultants helps information our choices.

  • Diana Valencia, DPM, podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot and Ankle Heart
  • Brian Mills, PT, DPT, bodily therapist with Orthopedic and Sports activities Bodily Remedy in Louisville, Kentucky
  • Damian Roussel, DPM, FACFAS, board-certified podiatric foot and ankle surgical procedure specialist in Frederick, Maryland
  • Eric Bjorkman, PT, MPT, CO, bodily therapist and proprietor of FYZICAL in Lincoln, Nebraska

Often Requested Questions

Are sandals okay for lengthy walks?

It is best to avoid wasting sure sandals for strolls or shorter excursions, akin to walks after consuming, however with good traction and safe straps, you’ll be able to put on sandals when protecting longer distances. Nonetheless, in keeping with Roussel, it‘s a lot simpler to get blisters and twist an ankle strolling lengthy distances in sandals, particularly in the event that they don’t have straps to assist your toes, heels, and ankles.

What sandals do podiatrists suggest?

Podiatrists suggest sandals with arch assist, good cushioning, and safe straps, which all assist walkers preserve correct foot alignment and cut back pressure on the toes. They recommend sticking to high quality, well-known manufacturers like those featured right here, together with Birkenstock, Merrell, and Teva.

Which sandals are greatest for foot ache?

The perfect sandals for foot ache function dependable arch assist, agency but comfy cushioning, and a contoured footbed that accommodates the pure form of your foot. Options akin to adjustable straps and a deep heel cup assist to make sure correct match and alignment, which might alleviate ache and forestall future flare-ups.

Why Belief Verywell Match

As a operating coach, marathon runner, private coach, and Verywell Match author, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending operating and strolling sneakers to purchasers and pals. For this text, she evaluated every pair with the Verywell Match testing crew based mostly on components akin to match, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, high quality, consolation, and worth. The Verywell Testing Lab used suggestions from our consultants and the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation to information their analysis. To stroll comfortably and cut back your threat of damage, Luff suggests getting correctly fitted in your strolling sandals and changing them commonly.

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