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When it starts to get warm out, I wear sandals every day. But, since I also live in New York City, I walk everywhere, so I need a pair of sandals that can hold up to running for the train, going on coffee runs, and chasing my preschooler down the street. But, you don’t have to live in the city to need a comfortable and functional pair of sandals.
Whether you’re traveling, on a hike, or just want some footwear that will hold up to a lot of steps, these are the best sandals for walking all day. I’ve put together a mix of styles, support, and waterproof options, and broke down what specs you should look for below.
So, keep on reading to find the best walking sandals for you. There’s a mix of shoe sizes, widths, styles, cushioning, and more, for every kind of activity. You’ll look great, you’ll feel great, and your feet will thank you.
The Best Sandals for Travel, Hiking & Walking All Day
Teva Women’s Original Universal Sandal
These Teva sandals are backed by thousands of 5-star Amazon reviews, where fans praise their comfort and design. They feature multiple points of adjustability for just the right fit, a rubber outsole for traction, and a molded EVA footbed with heel cupping and arch support.
- Available colors: 56
- Available sizes: 5 to 13
- One fan reported: “My favorite adventure sandals. Worn hiking, to the beach, paddle boarding.”
Skechers Women’s On-The-go 600-Brillancy Sport Sandal
Another popular pick for footwear are these Skechers sport sandals. They’re lightweight with a cushioned footbed and adjustable straps for the perfect fit. Reviewers rave that they’re durable and sturdy, to boot.
- Available colors: 5
- Available sizes: 5 to 12, including wide sizing
- One fan reported: “I walked around for a week, 20k+ steps a day and not a single blister.”
Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Islander Strappy Flat Sandal
Featuring a soft lining that’s made from recycled bottles, these Dr. Scholl’s sandals are a stylish and eco-friendly option. The straps are not adjustable, but they’re stretchy and the sandals are easy to pull on. They’re lightweight, with anatomical cushioning and plenty of support for your feet.
- Available colors: 6
- Available sizes: 6 to 11, including half sizing
- One fan reported: “I’ve had to walk a long way in these shoes. They were so comfortable i didn’t even notice them. Lots of compliments.”
Sorel Kinetic Impact Y-Strap High Sandal
With a thick, scalloped sole, bright colorblocking, and adjustable straps, you’ll turn heads with these walking sandals. Plus, it comes with plenty of cushioning.
- Available colors: 4
- Available sizes: 5 to 12, including half sizing
- One fan reported: “I love these shoes! I am on my feet all day and do a lot of walking with my work. The most comfortable pair of sandals I own (I have 3 pairs)! I get so many compliments on them too!”
Skechers Slip-ins: GO WALK Flex Sandal – Peyton
With lightweight cushioning and a hands-free, slip-in design, these sandals are made for effortless walking. Plus the mesh upper with a knot feature makes them stand out from the crowd.
- Available colors: 3
- Available sizes: 5 to 10
- Why We Love It: You can slip your foot in hands-free.
Merrell Women’s Bravada Backstrap Sport Sandal
Adjustable straps, a grippy outsole, and cushioned insole make these Merrell sport sandals perfect for any kind of activity. One reviewer raved that they’re easy to clean, too.
- Available colors: 5
- Available sizes: 5 to 11
- One fan reported: “I wore them walking all over Europe. I also wear them daily on 5 mile walks.”
OOFOS OOriginal Sandal
If you’re looking for a supportive sandal that’s more than just a flip-flop, these OOFOS are it. They’re designed to absorb impact with every step, support your arches, and reduce stress when your feet are sore. They also come with over 18,000 5-star Amazon reviews.
- Available colors: 9
- Available sizes: 5 to 18
- One fan reported: “They are like walking on a cloud. […] I’ve walked miles in them with no issues whatsoever!”
Mephisto Helen | Classics
Considering the amount of time I’ve been wearing my Mephistos, the price tag is worth it. The cork footbed molds to my foot and they have a timeless style that goes with everything, from maxi dresses to jean shorts. They’re also durable to last several summers.
- Available colors: 18
- Available sizes: 5 to 13
- One fan reported: “I love my Helen sandals! I call them my “good hiking sandals” as I wear them everywhere. They’re versatile and can dress up (beach style) an outfit but are also great for a 4 mile hike. They last for years, even with the way I treat them.”
Skechers Slip-ins: GO WALK Flex Sandal – Enticing
These Skechers also include a hands-free design so you can easily slip your foot in (win). They’re sports sandals with a contoured footbed, knit upper, and lightweight cushioning, perfect for the streets or the trails.
- Available colors: 3
- Available sizes: 5 to 11
- One fan reported: “I couldn’t believe how fast my feet became comfortable in the sandals. It was less than an hour, and now they’re the most comfortable covering for my feet that I’ve had in a long, long time.”
BEARPAW Crest Black
I have a pair of these stylish BEARPAWs and the cushioned EVA midsole, adjustable straps, and faux leather feel keep me supported (and looking good) all day long. I walk everywhere in them and I’m tempted to buy another pair in coffee.
- Available colors: 5
- Available sizes: 5 to 13
- One fan reported: “Best purchase ever soft, comfortable feels like in walking on a cloud and everyone compliments me on it.”
Birkenstock Women’s Gizeh Sandals
Everyone needs a classic pair of Birkenstocks in their wardrobe. They’re so durable and comfortable, due to the contoured cork footbed and adjustable strap, plus you can get them in over 10 different colors.
- Available colors: 132
- Available sizes: 4 to 15, including half sizing
- One fan reported: “Best sandals for walking or being on your feet a lot especially if you have arch issues.”
KEEN Women’s Elle Backstrap Casual Platform Open Toe Wedge Sandals
With stretchy straps, a cushy EVA midsole, and plenty of traction, these sandals are great for walking or traveling all day. Featured here is an eye-catching neon color, but there are 18 colorways to choose from, including tie-dye.
- Available colors: 18
- Available sizes: 5 to 11, including half sizing
- One fan reported: “I wore them to walk around Disney World, walking 20,000+ steps a day for 4 days and they were amazing.”
Teva Zymic Sandals
Looking for some comfy Tevas with a little more lift? Then you have to check out these sandals. They’re cushioned, made of recycled plastic, and feature puffy, adjustable straps that fit like a dream.
- Available colors: 9
- Available sizes: 5 to 11
- One fan reported: “Very comfortable. True to size and work well for walking long distances. I wear them regularly on 2 mile walks and have had zero issues.”
Hoka Hopara
Hoka sandals? I’m listening. They’re just as comfortable as Hoka sneakers and can hold up to any hike’s terrain. There’s an adjustable lace for just the right fit, a cushioned footbed, and plenty of traction, even if it gets wet.
- Available colors: 2
- Available sizes: 6 to 15, including half sizing
- One fan reported: “Had foot surgery and PT recommended these. Fit great provides good support and are waterproof.”
KEEN Women’s Rose Casual Closed Toe Sandals
If you like the look of the Hokas, but want something a little more budget-friendly, these KEEN sandals with a closed-toe design are a solid option. They’re adjustable, cushioned, and have lots of traction. Best of all, they’re washable when you need a refresh.
- Available colors: 16
- Available sizes: 5 to 12, including half sizing
- One fan reported: “Able to walk long distances immediately.”
Teva Women’s Hurricane Xlt2 Sandal
These Tevas are a modernized version of previous models and include better traction and softer padding. They’re cute, cushioned, adjustable, and designed for hiking or walking.
- Available colors: 44
- Available sizes: 5 to 14
- One fan reported: “I wore them for my 11 hour work day where I walk a ton and my feet didn’t hurt at all.”
What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Sandals
There are some factors to consider when you’re picking out walking sandals:
- Fit: Make sure that the shoe fits you comfortably. If your toes are right up to the top of the shoe, you may benefit from going up half a size. As you walk long distances, your feet expand, so if they’re already tight, they’ll get even tighter.
- Straps: Keep an eye out for a walking sandal with adjustable straps, or straps that are flexible and expand. If the straps aren’t designed to move with you and your foot, you could risk pain or blisters.
- Soles: You want your sandals to have a sole that’s supportive, avoid something hard or heavy. Additionally, look for some gripping that can make sure you don’t slip.
- Height: Sandals with a flat bottom or flip flops may not provide the support you need when you’re on the move. But, you also don’t want something that’s too high. The right amount of arch support and height are key.
- Breathability: Yes, we’re talking about sandals, which are typically open to the elements, but sometimes they can have too many straps or they’re made of a material that makes you sweat. And, since you’re walking and your feet are already sweating, this is something you want to avoid. Make sure your sandals allow air to flow and keep your feet cool.
Get your feet toe-tally ready for sandal season with these must-have essentials.
—Originally published April 22, 2024, at 5:08 p.m. PT
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