The arrival of sandal season ushers in exciting activities, such as beach trips and vibrant pedicures. However, for many individuals, lengthy walks in sandals can lead to blisters and discomfort.
Dr. Mikel Daniels, president and chief medical officer of We Treat Feet Podiatry, highlights that “thin, loose, or stretchy straps require your feet to work harder to keep the sandal in place, which can lead to fatigue not just in the feet but also in the knees and hips.”
Fortunately, comfortable walking sandals are available; knowing what features to prioritize can make a significant difference. To assist with your purchasing decisions, I consulted Dr. Daniels and other podiatrists to identify key characteristics of walking-friendly sandals, as well as their top recommendations.
Top Walking Sandals for 2026
This compilation of premier walking sandals is based on expert recommendations and a thorough assessment of highly-rated options in the market.
Overall Best Choice
The Birkenstock Arizona stands out as the brand’s most iconic model, offering robust arch support and a comfortable, durable footbed, according to Dr. Tec Fish, podiatrist and owner of Clover Podiatry. As someone with wide, flat feet, I’ve personally found these sandals accommodating without sacrificing support or comfort.
Birkenstock emphasizes adjustable straps, allowing for a personalized fit. Additionally, the footbed features a raised toe bar designed to grasp your toes during movement, minimizing slippage.
Best for Cushioning
Dr. Fish also endorses Oofos, emphasizing its excellence for post-workout recovery and all-day comfort. The unisex slide boasts high cushioning that absorbs shock while walking, and its contoured footbed provides essential arch support. These shoes are easy to clean and can even be machine-washed, though they should not be dried in a dryer. Note that Oofos advises women to size up for half sizes and men to size down.
Best Flip-Flops
For those seeking a cushioned, versatile design suitable for wider, flatter feet, Dr. Daniels recommends OluKai sandals. These flip-flops are designed for comfort and can help alleviate Achilles tendon pain, even during extended wear. They feature a lightweight construction, treaded sole for traction, and a quick-drying insole, making them ideal for wet conditions. OluKai offers styles for both men and women.
Best for Multitasking
Experts indicate that one key reason sandals can be uncomfortable is that toes must clench to maintain stability during walks. Dr. Fish suggests Teva sandals, which feature a toe strap and an ankle-secured strap to minimize toe clenching. Available for both genders in various colors, these sandals serve well in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Their cushioned footbed wraps seamlessly around the foot for added support, while the deep-tread sole offers excellent traction.
Stylish Dress Sandals for Women
Looking for a more sophisticated yet comfortable option? Dr. Samantha Landau recommends Naot sandals, which feature a slight wedge that’s not overly high. With toe, midfoot, and ankle straps, these sandals provide a secure fit without sacrificing style.
Naot emphasizes a cushioned insole that ensures good arch support and offers narrow, regular, and wide-width options for a tailored fit.
Stylish Dress Sandals for Men
Dr. Landau also recommends Clarks sandals, highlighting their supportive design and cushioning. These slides feature a robust midsole band to secure the sandal, a leather upper, and a rubber outsole for optimal traction. Their built-in arch support and spacious toe box cater to comfort, with options for regular and wide widths.
How We Determine the Best Walking Sandals
To find sandals suited for comfortable walking, we consulted experts on key considerations during the selection process. Key priorities include:
Support: Dr. Fish notes that a flimsy insole is inadequate. Look for sandals that provide substantial heel cup support and proper arch elevation. A telling test is to fold the sandal; if only the ball of the foot bends, it’s likely supportive enough.
Cushioning: An effective midsole should be cushioned without being overly squishy, as it needs to provide shock absorption while maintaining stability during movement.
Strap Security: Ensuring that the sandal effectively holds your foot in place is vital. According to Dr. Fish, a secure fit minimizes excess muscle effort and fatigue during walks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are sandals often less comfortable for long walks?
Dr. Fish explains that sandals require greater foot effort compared to traditional shoes. The need to curl toes for grip leads to muscle fatigue sooner than expected. Support is another issue, as sandals typically provide less than running shoes or cross-trainers.
Can I break in my sandals for improved comfort?
Yes, wearing the sandals more will help them adjust to your foot shape. Transitioning from boots or shoes to sandals can cause initial discomfort, which usually resolves as feet acclimate to the style.
Meet Our Experts
At NBC Select, our team collaborates with professionals possessing expertise backed by extensive training and experience. All advice provided is independent, free from conflicts of interest.
Dr. Mikel Daniels, President and Chief Medical Officer of We Treat Feet Podiatry; Dr. Tec Fish, Podiatrist and Owner of Clover Podiatry in Vancouver; Dr. Samantha Landau, Podiatrist and Professor at Touro University’s New York College of Podiatric Medicine; and Dr. Chandana Halaharvi, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and owner of Thrive Foot and Ankle in Houston, offer their insights.
Why Trust NBC Select?
As the Commerce Editor at NBC Select, I specialize in beauty, home, and lifestyle coverage—focusing on topics like wide toe box shoes and supportive sandals. This article compiles the best walking sandals as advised by leading podiatrists aimed at ensuring foot comfort.
