One of the most important things that women need on a vacation during summer is a comfy pair of walking sandals. Women travelers will know that it’s truly a challenge to find sandals that are both good-looking and functional. And no matter how much you want them to, typical flip-flops will just not cut it. When it comes to warm weather, you need a pair that is breathable and doesn’t hurt your feet. The best comfortable women’s sandals for walking are as fashionable and sleek as they are functional and supportive. The most comfortable women’s sandals don’t result in aching feet, pinched toes, or blisters either.
Just like comfy shoes specifically meant for walking, walking sandals are a blessing for running summer errands or walking on a cobblestone street on your holiday. We ran through numerous options to come up with a cute yet comfy list. Here are the 13 best comfortable women’s sandals for walking.
Choosing good walking sandals for women
Types
According to the various purposes they serve, walking sandals can be grouped into different categories. Fashion walking sandals focus on both performance and aesthetics. Next up are casual walking sandals that are perfect for walking around busy and cobblestoned city streets. They are lightweight, versatile, and work anywhere.
Hiking sandals, on the other hand, are generally closed-toe ones for walking in the wilderness or indulging in outdoor activities. These athletic sandals are rugged and slip-resistant. What’s more, they feature a strong-grip outsole and thick mid- and upper-soles with additional straps for durability.
Last but not the least, there are water sandals which are perfect for wet conditions like going to the beach, fishing, swimming, or boating. They’re mostly made of rubber or synthetic, have a grippy outer sole and dry quickly.
Insoles and outsoles
It is a proven fact that sandals with a bit of raised heels are good for your spine. So, many women’s walking sandals possess a little bit of a heel with thicker back soles. Also, they generally have very comfortable, thick insoles that ease walking on uneven and rocky ground.
Grip
Arch and ankle are incredibly important while choosing walking sandals. Any good walking sandals worth its salt should offer excellent traction so that you don’t twist your ankle or slip while walking. The best of them have thick belts and straps that keep your feet in place.
Breathability
It’s important that your walking sandals keep your feet dry and cool. Walking sandals with lots of air circulation are also useful when you have a foot condition. Also, its no fun when your feet are sweaty and your sandals smell, so good breathability is an important aspect.
Teva Verra Sandals
13
The Verra sandals from Teva are a rare pair that is polished and pretty, and yet sporty and actually water-friendly. A rubber, mesh, and textile build make these sandals the absolute perfect footwear if you’re headed to a beach destination.
The Teva Verra sandals boast thick insoles as well as outsoles. A contoured EVA footbed ensures maximum arch support so as to not let the rough terrain hurt your feet. What’s more, the footbed is also odor-resistant and boasts the shock-absorbing ShocPad technology. The flexible outsoles are made from spider rubber and have extremely grippy deep lugs. So, you have maximum traction no matter the kind of terrain you’re walking on. Plus, they dry off in no time at all. Rounding off the bevy of features is an easily adjustable loop and hook closure that offers excellent support.
While they’re not the most fashionable ones out there, they definitely are chic enough to be paired with any beachy outfit. Moreover, they come in a gamut of colors for those who’re looking for something other than plain black sandals.
Pros
- Excellent traction.
- A great travel sandal for vacations.
Cons
- Straps are a bit uncomfortable.
Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals
12
There’s no way that one talks about comfortable women’s sandals for walking without Birkenstock coming up. And the Arizona Softbed Sandals from Birkenstock are perhaps one of the most popular ones.
The cozy walking sandals feature a super-soft shock-absorbing footbed that is mightily gentle on the feet. It easily conforms to your feet after a few days of having broken them in. The sandals also boast a rubber sole with excellent traction, oodles of pronounced arch support, as well as extra cushioning. Plus, the EVA sole layer is perfect for a smooth stride and for absorbing shocks on rough terrains. Two adjustable buckled straps make it easier for adjusting the sandal for comfort.
However, perhaps the best part about this sandal is that its available in a whopping 17 different colors!
Pros
- Durable construction.
- Excellent arch support.
- Adjustable straps.
Cons
- A bit on the expensive side.
Clarks Women’s Leisa Claytin Flat Sandals
11
If you’re looking for cute yet functional women’s sandals, then the floral-detailed Leisa Claytin Flat Sandals from Clarks are perfect. These lightweight sandals are feminine to boot and stand out amongst the sea of Clarks’ sandal designs.
A hook-and-loop Velcro strap closure and an adjustable heel strap allow for customization of fit. The other two straps feature the floral designs and have stretch-gore inserts for a good fit. Furthermore, the sandals are also available in a range of widths and half-sizes. So, women can actually choose sizes that fit them best without having to compromise. What’s more, the sandals are available in six different colors with both matte and metallic finishes. An Ortholite footbed equipped with Clarks’ signature ‘Cushion Soft’ technology makes walking in them a dream.
So, whether you want an everyday pair or a vacation one, the Clarks Leisa Claytin sandals are your go-to choice.
Pros
- Six color options.
- Numerous fits and sizes available.
- Ortholite footbed.
Cons
- A bit unsuitable for slippery surfaces.
Birkenstock Women’s Daloa Sandals
10
If you’re looking for a pair of comfy everyday walking sandals, look no further than the Daloa sandal from Birkenstock.
A wraparound, leather strap-embellished latex-and-cork insole lends these sandals lovely feminine charm. A contoured footbed provides both a tailored fit as well as arch support. Further, the sandals even have a lightweight EVA outsole with shock-absorbing capabilities for all terrains. Two adjustable straps and closures at both ankle and toe allow for an extra-perfect grip.
So, these sandals will actually end up leaving your feet feeling relaxed and not pressured. Additionally, a breathable leather lining keeps the feet comfortable, non-sweaty, and airy all day long.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing EVA outsole.
- Offer the perfect fit.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- The synthetic sole is unsuitable for slippery terrain.
Vionic Amber Women’s Sandals
9
The Amber sandals from Vionic are not only cute but are also one of the best comfortable women’s sandals for walking out there.
What sets these sandals apart is that they have a huge range of both designs and sizes, including half-sizes. A rubber outsole with patterned tread ensures traction on all kinds of terrains and surfaces. Next comes the flexible and lightweight EVA midsole, which also happens to be shock-absorbing. Completing the trifecta is the microfiber footbed, which offers excellent support and comfort. Moreover, four adjustable straps ensure an absolutely customized fit for your feet.
If that wasn’t enough, the sandals also feature the innovative and biomechanically-designed Orthaheel technology. It cups your arches and offers them maximum support. So, for those who experience pain in the heels, these walking sandals provide much relief to their aching feet.
Pros
- Functional and lightweight.
- Lots of designs and colors available.
- Orthaheel technology for fighting heel pain.
- Four adjustable straps.
Cons
- Getting the right size could be a bit tricky.
Plaka Flat Sandals Palm Leaf
8
If you’re a fan of strappy footwear, then you’re going to love the Plaka Palm Leaf Flat Sandals. The stylish rope detailing sets these sandals apart from the usual clunky ones, and makes them a great choice for a holiday.
These thick rubber-soled sandals provide great traction and also limit any possible slippage. However, it’s the beautiful, handwoven braid design that’s the highlight of these sandals. The straps are made of soft, durable, and stretch-to-fit nylon, and they also happen to be skin-friendly. So, they’re the perfect footwear for jazzing up any outfit that ou wear.
Plus, the sandals are also water-resistant, which makes these sandals perfect for beach and water activities. The icing on the cake is a whopping 14 color options that are available to women, ranging from sapphire blue to red to black.
Pros
- A gamut of colors available.
- Thick outsole.
- Extremely soft and yet durable nylon.
Cons
- None.
OluKai Upena Sandals
7
The Hawaiian-inspired brand OluKai is known for designing stylish yet functional footwear that suits all sorts of ocean vacations! And, the fabulous Upena sandals from OluKai are one of their best.
The Upena boasts an anatomically-molded and cushioned footbed, while not appearing clunky from the outside either. Additionally, the sandals are also available in non-marking rubber soles too. The thin, adjustable leather straps are a stylish take on the clunkier sandal appearance. Even then, they provide a comfy and secure fit, thanks to the soft microfiber lining. Moreover, the toe loop and the ankle strap further adds to the snug fit and comfort factor.
So, no matter whether you’re walking on cobblestone streets or on the beach, the sandals are perfect. Also, since these sandals are not sold in half-sizes, you need to choose a larger size if you’re usually a half-size.
Pros
- Super cute pair of sandals.
- Comfortable.
- No need to break them in.
Cons
- Not meant for those with wider feet.
Ecco Women’s Damara Ankle Gladiator Sandals
6
The somewhat high price tag of Ecco footwear is absolutely justified, thanks to their sturdiness, quality, and design. The Ecco Damara Sandals have not only a wide, stretchy strap but also ensure an excellent fit.
The Damara beautifully highlights androgynous style and is the perfect pairing for cropped trousers, denim jackets, boyfriend jeans, and even cute little dresses. The upper strap is textile, while the other two straps are made of leather. A microfiber footbed has holes at the bottom for breathability and air circulation. What’s more, there’s an additional moisture-absorbent foam layer that keeps the feet comfortable for hours on end. Additionally, the sandals feature a shock-absorbing and flexible outsole that offers excellent grip on all kinds of terrains.
Thus, the Damara offers versatility for both appearance and movement and is one of the best options for walking sandals.
Pros
- Comfy and soft microfiber footbed.
- Moisture-absorbent foam layer.
- Great for those with flat feet.
Cons
- Finding the right size can be tricky.
Skechers Reggae Slim Gladiator Sandals
5
It’s no surprise that the award-winning footwear brand Skechers features on the list of comfortable women’s sandals for walking. Among them, the Reggae Slim Gladiator Sandals from Skechers make for an excellent buy.
These walking sandals feature exceptional support for your feet. A shock-absorbing midsole and a contoured memory foam footbed are great for both additional support and comfort. A flexible rubber outsole has great traction even on slippery terrain. The sandals have a mesh of straps at the top, along with an adjustable heel strap with Velcro closure for customizing the fit. While the straps are slimmer than the usual ones on sandals, fortunately there’s many of them. Undoubtedly, these straps do an excellent job of both supporting the feet and keeping them in place.
And last but not least, the sandals offer a cool variety of both prints, designs, and colors too!
Pros
- Lots of designs, styles, and colors available.
- Thick rubber outsole.
- Extremely comfortable.
Cons
- Some might find the straps to be a bit too thin.
Sanuk Yoga Sling 2 Sandals
4
Channel your inner boho vibe with these super-cute Yoga Sling 2 walking sandals from Sanuk. This versatile sandal is perfect for every destination, right from the city streets to beaches and even fancy restaurants.
The highlight of these sandals is the soft and squishy yoga mat-like footbed that provides extra cushioning for your feet. It also provides excellent support to the heel and the arch area. The ‘boho’ element is brought by the two-way, stretchy knit sling that is very gentle on the skin and doesn’t chafe it. Moreover, the sandals are available in a gamut of colors, which makes them very attractive and perfect for all kinds of outfits.
To top that, the Sanuk Yoga Sling 2 sandals hardly take up any space in the baggage, which makes them travel-worthy too.
Pros
- Lightweight and easily packable.
- Soft on the skin.
- Multitude of colors available.
Cons
- It takes a long time to dry.
Teva Women’s Tirra Athletic Sandals
3
If you’re a summer hiker, then the Teva Women’s Tirra Athletic Sandals are the most comfortable women’s sandals for walking you can find.
These nifty walking sandals not only look good but offer all the practicality of walking sandals too. The sandals are made from water-resistant polyester webbing that help it dry quickly. A cushioning sponge EVA top-sole, a compression-molded EVA midsole, and a rubber outsole with water-channeling lugs help you walk comfortably, no matter the surface. Furthermore, multiple adjustable straps with both Velcro and hook-and-loop closures help keep your feet in place. In addition to that, the shock-pad heel and nylon stability shank make these sandals the epitome of walking comfort.
If that wasn’t enough, the sandals are available in a gamut of color options, right from rose gold to peach to Malibu blue. Clearly, the Teva Tirra have the capability of taking you from urban cobblestone streets to the great outdoors sans missing a beat.
Pros
- Excellent color options.
- EVA technology offers comfort and grip both.
- Lots of adjustment straps.
- Rubber outsole offers good traction.
Cons
- None.
Söfft Mirabelle Casual Sandals
2
If you’re looking for a sandal that is incredibly stylish and fancy, then the Söfft Mirabelle Casual Sandals are your best friend.
The generously cushioned sandal features a synthetic sole. It even boasts a heel of 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) which lends you a bit of extra height. A mesh of non-adjustable but comfy straps sits on top of the sandals. That, combined with an adjustable ankle strap keep the feet in place make for a smooth walking experience. What’s more, the sandals are breathable so that you can wear them throughout the day without your feet smelling.
However, what sets this sandal fashionably apart from the others is its interesting range of color choices – think silver, gold, denim, and even snake print!
Pros
- Breathable, lightweight.
- Good cushioning.
- Perfect for all kinds of outfits.
Cons
- Unsuitable for slippery surfaces.
Reef Women’s Rover Hi Sandals
1
If you’re looking for minimalistic-looking and yet comfortable women’s sandals for walking, then the Reef Women’s Rover Hi Sandals are your best bet. The stunning looking pair of sandals are surprisingly excellent in both form and function.
What sets the Reef Rover Hi Sandals apart from most similar high-end sandals is its super-soft, supportive, and contoured Swellular footbed. No matter how much time you spend in these, the footbed keeps the feet comfortable. Additionally, these sandals also feature a textured sawtooth rubber outsole which provides great traction.
Also, the sandals are all about the perfect fit, thanks to their leather build and the elastic gore ankle straps. Comfort, support, traction, and style – the Reef Rover Hi Sandals offer it all.
Pros
- ‘Swellular’ footbed and foam mid-sole and outsole.
- Stylish to look at.
- Provides traction, support, and comfort.
Cons
- Don’t run in half-sizes, so finding the right size could be an issue.
