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Monday, November 3, 2025

The 18 Greatest Strolling Sandals of 2025, Examined


Teva Zymic Women’s Sandal

Credit score: Amazon
Execs

  • Antimicrobial remedy

  • Padded, adjustable straps

  • Made with recycled supplies

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for these in search of 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 simple alternative for our high choose for greatest total strolling sandals. With contoured arch help, a well-cushioned footbed, and a versatile sole, this pair was comfy sufficient to put on all day lengthy. The footwear 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 possibly can be ok with carrying a extra sustainable shoe.

On take a look at walks, we observed that this sandal felt light-weight and comfortable underfoot, with wonderful help and stability. The grippy rubber outsole saved us surefooted and regular on uneven terrain. We additionally like this sandal’s open-toe design and padded, adjustable straps, which saved our toes in place with out inflicting painful irritation or blisters. Fashionable 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 half sizes. Nevertheless it’s value noting that we didn’t have any points with the match throughout testing.
  • On some walks, we observed sweat increase 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’ total consolation.

Meet Our Testers

Each of our testers get pleasure from strolling for train. One tester goals for at the very 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 correct 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 comfortable foam footbed, stable help, and chunky sole, which exceed their expectations when it comes to consolation.

Merrell Women's Terran 4 Slide

Credit score: Amazon
Execs

  • Shock-absorbing sole

  • Strong odor management

  • Colourful accent design

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for people who spend their days on their toes and search trendy, 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 comfortable and comfortable. 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 vast widths so you will get the right fi.

The sandals provide wonderful shock absorption within the heel and simply the correct amount of curve within the outsole to create clean transitions with out being too bouncy. The arch help feels good, and the sandals match true to dimension—no digging or chafing wherever. 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 take a look at; nevertheless, some wearers have famous that the hook-and-loop strap is simply 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 kinds of footwear 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 favored the model of the sandals. These sandals definitely 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, Girls’s 5-11 | Closure: Elastic bungee | Cushioning: Average | Supplies: Mesh and suede higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Score: 5/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for energetic 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 help and stability of a sturdy mountaineering shoe, incomes our high spot for greatest males’s strolling sandals. After we examined this sporty pair, we discovered that its powerful rubber outsole with a grippy lug sample provided distinctive traction on quite a lot of surfaces. The plush foam cushioning saved our toes cozy and guarded, whether or not we have been strolling on sidewalks or gravel paths. The sandals additionally felt springy and responsive, propelling us to the following step.

Throughout take a look at walks, our toes stayed in place, because of the bungee lace system with toggles and adjustable heel strap. We additionally favored that the closed-toe design saved out rocks and particles when strolling on rougher terrain. The sturdy sandals additionally felt surprisingly gentle and well-ventilated, given their ample cushioning and safety.

Additionally out there in ladies’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 could possibly be a bit tighter.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester walks about 11,000 steps day-after-day, principally 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: Girls’s 5-13, Males’s 7-15 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Agency | Supplies: Recycled plastic higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Total Score: 4.4/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for budget-conscious vacationers in search of light-weight strolling sandals to tackle the go.

Why We Love Them

For an adjustable, sturdy sandal at a budget-friendly value, we advocate Teva’s Unique Common Sandal. Weighing simply 6 ounces, this is without doubt one of the lightest sandals on our record, that means it gained’t weigh you down on lengthy walks. Plus, the footwear are simple to stash in a backpack or tote bag, making this pair considered one of our high picks for holidays or different journeys.

Throughout testing, we observed that the sandals’ three adjustable straps supplied an ideal match. We additionally like that its easy, low-profile model pairs nicely with the whole lot from yoga leggings to summer season clothes. With dozens of colours and patterns to select from, stocking up for the hotter months is simple. One other bonus? We discovered that these sandals are simple to scrub and dry shortly, making them preferrred for seashore 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 might not have sufficient stability or help 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 attempt Teva’s Unique Common Sandals after listening to rave evaluations from family and friends. One tester has needed to cope with 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: Girls’s 5-12 | Closure: Hook-and-loop straps | Cushioning: Most | Supplies: Woven straps, molded foam insole, rubber outsole | Our Total Score: 5/5

Who They’re For

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

Why We Love Them

Ryka’s Blissful Strappy Sandals have comfortable straps, making them simple to pack, and are trendy 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 supplied loads of ankle help. 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 diverse and uneven terrain, similar to gravel and free dust, and by no means felt unstable. They held our toes safe and regular. We predict they’re an excellent worth for his or her secure and classy design.

Potential Flaws

  • The deep ridges within the sole supplied 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 additional 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 stable traction and provide most adjustability for an ideal match.

Chaco Women's CushZ Toe-Loop Extra Cushioned Sandal

Credit score: Chaco

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

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

Why We Love Them

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

The molded arch help supported us and felt good once we needed to stand for a very long time. We discovered these sandals had the right mixture of firmness, padding, and suppleness. Moist surfaces have been no match for them because of their stable traction. And when the sandals bought moist, they did not chafe our pores and skin and dried shortly. We predict these sandals are fairly priced for his or her worth and are nicely value it should you’re in your toes for lengthy intervals.

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

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals should not out there in half sizes, and the corporate recommends sizing up. Nonetheless, we sized down, and so they match completely, so getting the correct dimension may be difficult.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester has flat, vast toes with some overpronation and frequently walks on a treadmill and outside in numerous climate circumstances. 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 help, and so they positively met her expectations for comfy all-day put on.

Merrell Women's Fleur Fisherman Sandal

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for individuals who want wonderful arch help to assist stop a plantar fasciitis flare-up.

Why We Love Them

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

We discovered that the thick, vast leather-based straps felt comfortable 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 energetic holidays and might be simply dressed up or down.

Potential Flaws

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

Meet Our Tester

Our tester walks at the very least three miles a day when commuting to work and operating errands, and likewise 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, model, and help. She was happy that these sandals exceeded her expectations, providing wonderful help for her plantar fasciitis, whether or not strolling brief or lengthy distances.

Vivaia Kiara Sport Sandals

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

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

Why We Love Them

Vivaia’s Kiara Sport Sandals proved comfortable, supportive, and breathable once we examined them, making them our best choice for probably the most comfy strolling sandals. We like that they really feel versatile with out shedding help, and so they’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, relatively than sluggish or sluggish.

The moisture-wicking, anti-microbial insole saved our toes cool and dry by means of lengthy, scorching 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 vast sizes, which can be a problem for these with vast toes.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester frequently walks 3-5 miles a day for train, errands, and on a strolling pad throughout work. She has skilled blisters and chafing prior to now with hiking-style sandals. She likes these sandals for his or her versatile design and added help, 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, retaining her toes cool, dry, and really comfy, even in scorching climate.

Teva Women’s Tirra Hiking Sandal

Credit score: Teva
Execs

  • Adjustable, padded straps

  • Simple to scrub

  • Excellent stability and traction on uneven terrains

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

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

Why We Love Them

To get probably the most out of your seashore walks, we advocate Teva’s Tirra Sandal. Throughout testing, we observed that the contoured midsole supplied comfy arch help, even retaining our painful plantar fasciitis signs at bay. We additionally observed that the froth cushioning helped take up shock with out feeling too squishy or compromising our steadiness.

The thick, sturdy rubber outsole delivers excellent stability, help, and traction for traversing uneven terrain and moist circumstances. We additionally love that the absolutely padded straps are extremely adjustable, because of handy hook-and-loop closures that hold our toes secure and safe. Cleansing these footwear is simple—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 stop odor-causing micro organism from rising.

Potential Flaws

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

Meet Our Testers

One in all our testers has excessive arches and wider toes, whereas the opposite is an underpronator with plantar fasciitis. The primary tester had points with footwear being too slender prior to now, so she appreciated that she may modify these sandals for a greater match. The opposite tester appreciated that these are slimmer than her Teva Hurricane Sandals, with sufficient help and rigidity to fight her plantar fasciitis signs.

Amazon NAOT Kayla Sandal

Credit score: Amazon

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for these in want of arch help, in search of a sandal that does not sacrifice model for consolation.

Why We Love Them

Do your excessive arches ache whenever you spend lengthy days in your toes? In that case, we extremely advocate Naot’s Kayla Sandal. Throughout testing, the sandals’ cork and latex footbed felt agency however comfy. The raised arch provided help proper the place we would have liked it probably 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, trendy design pairs nicely with most wardrobes. We love that the footwear 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, that means a panel of podiatrists has decided that its design helps help good foot well being.

Potential Flaws

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

Meet Our Testers

Our testers rack up just a few miles day by day on common walks and whereas operating errands. One tester underpronates, that means she wants a sandal with dependable arch help to align her toes and forestall ache as she walks. The opposite tends to stay together 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 smooth design, and so they have been pleasantly stunned by how comfy it felt throughout testing, even when strolling lengthy distances on uneven terrains.

Nike Air Max Isla Sandals

Credit score: Nike
Execs

  • Tremendous comfortable cushioning

  • Glorious help

  • Stylish design

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for individuals who need a cozy, supportive platform sandal with a trendy aptitude.

Why We Love Them

In the event you love the look and luxury of a platform sandal but additionally need dependable help, Nike’s Air Max Isla Sandal could also be your preferrred shoe. With thick, velvety straps, tremendous comfortable cushioning, and a chunky sole, this pair presents stylish model and plush consolation with out sacrificing stability. From the second we slipped into them, we felt like we have been strolling on air, because of the comfortable footbed.

Throughout take a look at walks, the sandals have been surprisingly supportive, particularly given their excessive platform. We by no means wobbled, and the plush straps helped hold 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 might be extra suited to informal put on relatively 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 regarded very comfy. Total, she was impressed with the sandal’s pillow-like cushioning, plush straps, and stable help, in addition to its eye-catching model.

Amazon Reef Men's Cross-Shore Sandals

Credit score: Amazon
Execs

  • Comfortable footbed with good shock absorption

  • Supportive ergonomic design

  • Fashionable, light-weight, and sensible

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for wearers in search of a water resistant sandal for seashore 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 seashore, Reef’s Cross-Shore Sandals can deal with the surf and sand whereas retaining your toes cozy and supported. After we examined this pair, we discovered that its sturdy development and water resistant supplies have been preferrred 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’ comfortable foam midsole provided plush consolation and good shock absorption. We additionally discovered that the ergonomic design delivers optimum help, which helps to scale back foot fatigue throughout walks. And when you head dwelling from the seashore, the sandals are simple to rinse off and dry shortly. We additionally love that the rugged, trendy design and built-in bottle opener on the underside make them good for yard cookouts or journeys to a brewery.

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

Potential Flaws

  • Though these sandals have 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 3 miles a day, principally whereas strolling his canine. He has beforehand worn Reef flip-flops and likes the model’s high quality, so he was desirous to attempt their sandals. The Cross-Shore Sandals exceeded his expectations when it comes to consolation, model, and efficiency.

Amazon Taos Women's The Show Sandals

Credit score: Amazon
Execs

  • Excellent arch help

  • Delicate footbed and straps

  • Cool and breathable

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for individuals who need a sturdy, comfy dressy sandal with loads of help.

Why We Love Them

We advocate Taos’ The Present Sandal for its distinctive consolation and flexibility as an off-the-cuff or dressy strolling sandal. After we examined this pair, we have been impressed with its excellent arch help. The sandals supplied the good steadiness of flexibility and sturdiness, and we observed that our toes have been well-supported however not too restricted.

These sandals are very responsive, so our stride felt springier and our toes have been extra energized, in comparison with once we put on different pairs. And the light-weight and breathable design saved our toes cool and comfy. Plus, the straps and footbed felt buttery comfortable 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 have been capable of repair it with some changes.

Meet Our Tester

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

REI HOKA Women's Infini Hike TC Sandals

Credit score: REI

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for these in search of sandal for mountaineering on gentle 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 high 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 supplied distinctive consolation and arch help, together with good influence safety. We discovered this pair to be preferrred for touring, whether or not we have been traipsing by means of the airport or strolling on concrete, sand, gravel, or indoor surfaces.

We have been impressed by the sturdy rubber outsole, which provided distinctive traction on diverse terrain. And the three comfortable, adjustable straps stayed securely in place, because of the sturdy hook-and-loop closures. We have been additionally pleasantly stunned 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 favored the sandals’ match, we want the strap over the toe field could possibly be made a bit tighter for these with slender toes.

Meet Our Tester

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

Vivobarefoot Men's Tracker Sandal

Credit score: Vivobarefoot
Execs

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

  • Extremely sturdy and versatile

  • Extremely-packable and light-weight

Key Specs

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

In the event you want minimalist footwear that enable for pure foot motion, we advocate 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 influence, because of the thick rubber outsole. Moreover, this sturdy pair supplied grippy traction, permitting us to really feel secure and assured on quite a lot 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 have been capable of roll them up right into a small ball and simply tuck them right into a pack.

Additionally out there in ladies’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 isn’t as well-ventilated and breathable as open-toe sandals, so our toes bought heat and a bit sweaty in scorching climate.

Meet Our Tester

Our tester enjoys strolling for day by day actions and health, notably as an energetic restoration from operating. He particularly seeks out zero drop footwear 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
Execs

  • Versatile design might be dressed up or down

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

  • Excessive-quality waterproof leather-based

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for individuals who need a horny, trendy 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 characteristic a classy model that may take them straight from the seashore to an evening out. Their smooth, low-profile design might 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 seashore footwear. Additionally they felt supportive and comfy as we walked on quite a lot of surfaces, together with sand, concrete, gravel, and rocky paths.

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

Potential Flaws

  • Not like 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 day by day routine and as a exercise calm down. She normally wears cozy sneakers or sandals for strolling. She likes that these sandals are very trendy, with out sacrificing sensible options such pretty much as good arch help and waterproofing. They exceeded her expectations when it comes to consolation and help, whether or not worn to the seashore or out to dinner.

Frankie4 Thompson Black

Credit score: Frankie4
Execs

  • Glorious arch and toe help

  • Three adjustable, padded straps

  • Very trendy

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for individuals who need a trendy, versatile sandal that gives additional help 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 absolutely adjustable design. Throughout take a look at walks, the well-padded midsole and stable arch help saved our toes comfy and guarded. We put these sandals by means of the ringer—strolling in scorching, humid circumstances on concrete, gravel, and dust—and so they 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 saved our toes in place with out inflicting painful irritation or blisters. Fashionable 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 day by day routine. She usually wears cozy strolling or trainers. She was drawn to those sandals due to their model and promised consolation and help, and so they didn’t disappoint.

Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle Sandal

Credit score: Birkenstock
Execs

  • Glorious stability and arch help

  • Excessive-quality, sturdy design

  • Three adjustable straps that hold toes securely in place

Key Specs

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

Who They’re For

Greatest for these in search of wide-feet-friendly sandals for long-distance walks, which are additionally engaging for informal put on.

Why We Love Them

For vast toes, we advocate Birkenstock’s Milano Massive 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 vast 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 characteristic a contoured cork-latex footbed, which gives distinctive arch help 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 attention-grabbing 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 possibly can 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 help, 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 help. 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 last record of suggestions. Though these pairs have some options we like, they finally didn’t meet our rigorous testing necessities.

  • We love the smooth, streamlined model and light-weight design of FitFlop’s F-MODE Go Webbing Sling Sandals. Nonetheless, we discovered the only real to be too exhausting for lengthy walks, and the webbing across the huge toe led to blisters and common discomfort.
  • Reef’s Water Vista Sandals characteristic a trendy design, cozy cushioning, and nice grip and safety within the water. Nonetheless, we want that the straps have been padded, as they precipitated irritation and chafing when worn in dry circumstances.

What We’ve Up to date

  • Since publishing our preliminary examined roundup of the most effective strolling sandals, we’ve examined 11 new choices, bringing our complete 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.
  • Based mostly 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.
  • Based mostly on our testing insights, we’ve added three new superlatives: Greatest Barefoot, Most Fashionable, and Greatest Cushioned.

Verywell Match


What to Search for When Searching for Snug Sandals

  • Help: Search for sandals with a secure design that retains your toes securely in place. In keeping with 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 whenever you put on them, thereby rising your danger of harm.
  • Safety: Some sandals go away your toes extra uncovered than others—the quantity of safety you want relies on 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 should you’re mountaineering and strolling on unpaved trails, sandals with enclosed toes are a should.
  • Model: Perform and luxury are an important issues to contemplate when shopping for a pair of strolling sandals, however model 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 needs to be cosy and safe (however not too tight), permitting sufficient room to your toes to wiggle freely, in line 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 vast toes, in line 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 constituted 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 search out the most effective 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. After we take a look at strolling sandals at dwelling, we charge every pair based mostly on the next key attributes.

  • Match: After we first attempt them on, we word whether or not the sandals really feel cosy 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, giant, or true to dimension.
  • Design: We look at the sandal’s design and total aesthetic. Is it versatile for various makes use of, similar to health and informal put on? Does it have any distinctive options, similar to buckles, cutouts, or a excessive heel peak, that stand out? Is there something we might 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 exams: First, we bend the toe again in the direction of the heel. Then, we twist the footbed. Ideally, the sandal bends solely underneath the toes (not on the arch) and is troublesome to twist—this implies it’s secure.
  • Responsiveness: Responsive footwear 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 word how the cushioning feels. Is it plush or agency? Does it really feel even all through the footbed, or is there additional padding in sure areas? We additionally examine to see if the straps are padded for consolation and safety in opposition to blisters.
  • High quality: After we unbox the sandals, we examine them for any flaws, analyzing their supplies and development. We additionally proceed to examine 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 comfortable and breathable? We prioritize sandals that don’t create irritation, scorching spots, or painful blisters.
  • Worth: To precisely assess every shoe’s worth, we don’t examine its value till the tip of the testing interval, after we’ve rated it in all different key classes. Based mostly on our expertise, do we predict the sandal is priced pretty? Or would we solely purchase it if it went on sale? We additionally contemplate whether or not we’d advocate 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 searching for strolling sandals and methods 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 Middle
  • 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

Continuously Requested Questions

Are sandals okay for lengthy walks?

It is best to save lots of sure sandals for strolls or shorter excursions, similar to walks after consuming, however with good traction and safe straps, you possibly can put on sandals when masking longer distances. Nonetheless, in line 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 help your toes, heels, and ankles.

What sandals do podiatrists advocate?

Podiatrists advocate sandals with arch help, 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 very best sandals for foot ache characteristic dependable arch help, agency but comfy cushioning, and a contoured footbed that accommodates the pure form of your foot. Options similar to adjustable straps and a deep heel cup assist to make sure correct match and alignment, which may 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 footwear to shoppers and mates. For this text, she evaluated every pair with the Verywell Match testing staff based mostly on elements similar 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 danger of harm, Luff suggests getting correctly fitted to your strolling sandals and changing them frequently.

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