The 15 Best Comfortable Walking Sandals for All Your Summer Adventures
Promise you they're all actually cute.
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I’m a summer girlie through and through, and the best part about summer? Summer vacations, of course. The first thing on my packing list? Comfortable walking sandals that I can rely on for exploring, chilling, and not messing up the vibe of my vacay 'fits. Whether you’re headed on a Euro summer trip, an outdoor hike (or a leisurely nature walk that totally still counts as a “hike”), or just a stroll through the weekend farmer’s market, a comfy pair of sandals is a must for summer.
Sure, a retro pair of sneakers will never steer you wrong (and will look just as cute with most of your summer dresses and outfits), but don’t sleep on sandals as a comfortable and reliable shoe option. From sleek slides to sandals with arch support and espadrilles that won’t kill your feet, I’ve found the comfiest walking sandals for summer 2024—and I tested them out on my own summer vacay, polled fellow Cosmo editors for their expert recs, and combed through hundreds of online reviews to help you avoid all the blisters while still keeping chic.
Our top picks for the most comfortable walking sandals in 2024:
Ready to find your new favorite pair of comfy sandals? Keep scrolling to shop the standouts from brands like Birkenstock, Rothy’s, Teva, Frankie4, and more.
Pros
- Ankle ties are removable and can be styled multiple ways
- Extremely comfortable and supportive
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Some reviewers (myself included) note you may need to break in with 1 wear
I'm always skeptical of flats and espadrilles because they usually kill my wider feet. But when comfy shoe brand Rothy's debuted its extremely chic espadrille collection, I was intrigued and wanted to try them (namely for all my Euro summer vacation outfits). I was shocked and pleasantly surprised to find they fit me so, SO comfortably.
Things I love: you can remove the ankle ties, they're machine-washable, and they look so chic with pretty much any type of look. Tiny thing to note: the first time I wore them, I got a small blister on the backs of my ankles, but then they were completely fine after that. So, make sure you factor in a break-in period of one to two wears before you wear these all day long (which is standard for most shoes, tbh). Otherwise, these feel like walking on clouds and held up extremely well for all day into night wear on my vacation. As a bonus, every time I wear them, I get sooo many compliments.
- Sizes: 5-13
- Colors: Black, Red, White/Black, Gold Stripe, Diamond Metallic, Sailor Stripes, Limeade
Glowing Customer Review: "I’ve always loved the look of espadrilles, but I’ve never been able to find any that actually stay on my feet while walking. All the pairs I tried before this were too rigid in the soles and the upper materials were always too loose. Not only do these fit like a glove, but they’re comfortable and my feet stay in securely with every step."
Pros
- So! lightweight!
- Traction sole has great grip and works well for hiking or water activities
- Available in so many color combos
Cons
- Only offers one adjustable velcro strap, unlike other Tevas with two
Teva is known for its super-comfortable, sporty sandals, and for good reason. This lightweight style offers arch support, traction soles, adjustable velcro straps, and secure ankle straps. I tested out several pairs of Tevas (pls keep scrolling for more recs), but the Hurricane Drift Sandals, in my opinion, are best for outdoor activities like hiking or water-based activities (and are the lightest feeling). For something even sportier, you can upgrade to the brand's Hurricane XLT2 Sandals, which are $30 more expensive but offer even more adjustability and grip.
- Sizes: 5-14
- Colors: 29
Glowing Customer Review: "Wore these all over Costa Rica. Walked over rocky terrain and into the water without any difficulty or discomfort. The toe area is a little wider but the ankle strap and heel bed fit perfectly. I was never worried they would come off. I would like to purchase more colors. I have plantar fasciitis and I never felt any pain. Very good support."
Pros
- Extremely comfortable for walking and slightly elevated so your feet don't touch the ground
- Available in a ton of different fabrics and colors
Cons
- Some colors tend to sell out frequently
Okay, Birkenstocks have never ever been my style. But last summer, I sprained my ankle just before going to Portugal, and these were the only walking sandals that got me through my trip comfortably. And I've been wearing them ever since. I personally love the look of the Big Buckle Birkenstocks most, but these classic Arizona slides with soft footbeds are also a beloved and top-rated winner if you want a softer insole. Available in tons of fabrics and colors, including this dreamy Green Tea Suede, trust me when I say you should give these a chance. Your feet will thank you later. And they actually look very low-key chic with most summer outfits.
- Sizes: 5 - 10.5
- Colors: 10
Glowing Customer Review: "This is my third pair of Birkenstocks and my favorite! The most comfortable pair as well. Buy them!"
Pros
- Such an affordable Amazon find
- Tons of reviewers attest no break-in period is required
Cons
- Not real leather
Comfortable sandals on Amazon for less than $30? I was skeptical too until I read the hundreds of rave customer reviews. If you want to get in on the fisherman sandal trend without breaking the bank, these affordable flat sandals are your best bet. Testers swear by their comfort, with many attesting they held up for long walks while traveling sans any blisters or pain. And although they're not real leather, reviewers note they still look good and feel comfortable regardless.
- Sizes: 6 - 11
- Colors: Brown, Black, Black Patent, White, Silver
Glowing Customer Review: "I ordered these sandals for an upcoming trip to Europe. I like a closed-toe sandal for the city and this style reminded me of sandals I owned years ago. I was happy with the look of them. I tried them on and they were very comfortable. I ordered them in another color immediately. Post-trip update: WOWZA! These sandals held up really well to miles and miles of cobblestone. No aches and pains, no blisters. I came home and ordered a silver pair! Can't recommend them enough."
Pros
- Adjustable ankle strap ensures secure fit
- Platform gives *just* the right amount of height
- No break-in required
Cons
- Some testers say sizing is slightly off, so you may need to size up
If you want a sandal that works just as well for everyday wear as it does for racking up steps on vacation, look no further than these top-rated Nisolo flatforms. "I walked for miles all over London wearing these shoes (without breaking them in first, I might add), and my feet were as comfortable at the end of the day as they were in the beginning," Cosmo editor Corinne Sullivan says. "I got mine half a size up, and they fit perfectly—and even after wearing them countless times, they still look like new."
- Sizes: 5- 11
- Colors: Bone, Black, Almond
Glowing Customer Review: "These sandals are amazing. I just returned from vacation and I walked over 10 miles on these sandals right out of the box. More comfortable than my best sneakers! I now own these in 3 colors and I am looking forward to trying other styles."
Pros
- Testers love the comfy platform for walking
- Two adjustable straps for an extra tailored fit across your foot and around your ankle
Cons
- Some reviewers note that the soles wear out over time
"These are my go-to sandals in the city, especially since I don't want my feet to be anywhere near the pavement," Cosmo Associate Editor Chaise Sanders says, also noting, "Similar to other Doc Martens, they take a few days to break in, but once they mold to your feet, it literally feels like walking on a pillow."
Featuring two adjustable buckles, a traction platform, and a secure ankle strap, these Doc Marten sandals were designed for durability—and it doesn't hurt that they also look effortlessly cool, either.
- Sizes: 5 -11
- Colors: Black
Glowing Customer Review: "Light and very comfortable! They look amazing! I was a little worried by some negative comments about the soles wearing out quickly from some reviewers, but I did happen to ask someone who has had them a year and they said no issues with wear. The Voss style has a bit of a platform, but not so much that I feel unstable. Sizing for me was exactly like Doc boots. No break in period with these."
Pros
- Supportive footbed and platform are extra comfy
- Strappy design offers a different take on classic Tevas
Cons
- Make that "flip flop" sound when walking
- Some reviewers say the straps aren't adjustable enough
If traditional Tevas aren't your style, try the brand's strappy (but comfy) take on gladiator sandals. Featuring a low platform that offers support along with a little height, reviewers love the comfortable and cushy footbed on these sandals. Consider them the strappier version of the brand's best-selling Universal Sandals—all the comfort with a little bit of added flair.
- Sizes: 5 - 11
- Colors: Sesame, Black, Brown, Aloe
Glowing Customer Review: "I am very pleased with these sandals. As with all Tevas, the soles are incredibly cushy and supportive. The sizing is spot on with past Tevas I have owned - I only wish they made wide options. Now about the laces - (as stated) I have wide feet + flexibility issues and I did not have any trouble getting the straps on. That said, a "lace up" sandal like this always takes a little adjusting to be comfy. So to all the naysayers I would say go into these with realistic expectations and you will not be disappointed."
Pros
- The cushioned footbed is so damn comfortable and molds to your feet
- Amazing arch support that was literally designed by a podiatrist
- Block heel is easy for walking, dancing, and standing for long periods
Cons
- Straps feel a bit tight at first if you have wide feet
Before you roll your eyes that heeled sandals can't actually be comfortable for walking: hear me out. Founded and designed by podiatrists, Frankie4 knows how to do comfortable walking shoes just right, and these cute block heeled sandals are no exception. The subtly puffy leather straps shape your foot nicely and the style can work for both everyday wear and special occasions (these are my go-to day-to-night summer shoe). But the real highlight is the ultra-cushiony footbed that molds to your feet and feels like walking on clouds.
Minor note: As someone with wide feet, the straps over the top of my foot did require some stretching out and breaking in a bit. But the overall comfort made that process much easier.
- Sizes: 6 - 13
- Colors: Black and Sand
Glowing Customer Review: "Surprisingly comfortable and exactly what I was looking for. Cushion and support. I have a lot of foot issues and this was a great heel option"
Pros
- Handmade in Italy and feel/look so high quality
- Buttery soft puffy leather and footbed is sooo comfortable
Cons
- A splurge!
Looking for the luxe, high-fashion version of Birks? Let me introduce you to these Neil J. Rodgers slides. Are they a splurge? Yes, but trust me when I say the puffy leather design not only looks incredibly chic in an effortless, laidback kind of way but also feels like walking on clouds. Handmade in Italy from the softest Italian Nappa leather, these will last you for years and years to come. Oh, and all the colors, from on-trend burgundy to bone and classic black, are all the perfect neutrals for your summer wardrobe.
- Sizes: 35-45 EU
- Colors: Black, Bone, Burgundy, Gold
Glowing Customer Reviews: "Love the fit and style - have received many compliments on these. I bought them in both the bone and burgundy - they are my go to summer sandals." Another reviewer writes, "Like a couture Birkenstock. So much better looking and so comfy!"
True story: One time, I saw a girl in France wearing these platform Croc flip-flops looking ironically cool/chic, so I bought these platform Croc flip flops. The polarizing shoe brand is obviously known for its lightweight comfort, and these '90s/Y2K-inspired platform flip-flops nail that perfectly for summer. Available in a range of colors, they're super lightweight and soft, making a great pool or beach shoe as well.
- Sizes: 4 - 11
- Colors: Black, Latte, Neon Green, Pink, Gray, Pink Glitter, Seafoam Green, Baby Blue, Coral
Glowing Customer Review: "They are incredibly comfortable...as in, I didn't realize they could make a platform shoe that is both cute and comfortable. The Crocs logo is small and on the outer strap, plus it's embossed in the same color as the shoe so it blends in without being obnoxious. It's mostly all one piece...no seams to rub and irritate your skin. The only part that doesn't seem to be part of the single mold is the strap that goes in-between the toes. The tread on the bottom is good, and there's even a little ripple on the sole to keep your feet in place while you walk."
Pros
- Chunky heel has good traction
- No break-in period needed
Cons
- Some reviewers wish they were lighter
Sorel is a go-to for comfortably-designed shoes, especially when it comes to sandals. I love these chunky heeled fisherman sandals that offer the perfect amount of height, traction, and support. Reviewers rave about how comfy these are without lacking any style points. And, they're available in fun bright yellow and pink colors too if you want to go even bolder.
- Sizes: 5.5 - 12
- Colors: White, Yellow, Pink, Black
Glowing Customer Review: "Comfortable right out of the box! As others have mentioned, these are heavier on the bottom due to the platform. Once on the feet they do not feel as heavy. True to your sandal size- I wear a 7.5B in a sandal and these fit perfect! Good cushion and support. Great summer shoe- I purchased 3 colors- pink, white and yellow. You can never go wrong with Sorel for comfort and high quality."
Pros
- Footbeds provide nice arch support
- Cotton straps are comfortable on the foot without digging
Cons
- Only available in two prints
Handwoven from 100% cotton using traditional Nigerian Aso-Oke cloth, these colorful Shekudo sandals check all the boxes. The molded footbeds offer subtle arch support, while the velcro strap allows for a comfortable fit. And if you're looking for fun colors or prints, this is the brand to go to.
- Sizes: 6 - 12
- Colors: Multi-color Stripes or buttercream and yellow
Pros
- Chunky design looks cool and luxe
- Reviewers say they're great for walking and travel
Cons
- Some sizes tend to sell out
These quilted leather sandals that channel the look of a very famous designer shoe have been a Revolve bestseller for two summers in a row, and for good reason. The adjustable velcro straps are supportive and tailored to fit perfectly without sacrificing any style. Reviewers also love the chunky edge they add to any 'fit all while feeling incredibly comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
- Sizes: 35-41 EU
- Colors: Black and White
Glowing Customer Review: "Super comfortable shoe. It's well made and there are no areas that irritate my foot when I walk. I was worried the strap would rub on my heel but it's super soft. Very soft footbed and not clunky. Great for walking and being stylish!"
Pros
- Insole is cushioned with memory foam for extra support
- Flattering straps are also comfortable
- Available in two heel heights
Cons
- A lil pricier
If you need an elevated sandal that offers all the comfort, look no further than these Nomasei beauties. The insole is cushioned with memory foam for extra support and that walking-on-clouds feeling. Pair that with the ultra-low, supportive block heel, and you've got yourself a walkable summer sandal. Available in gold and silver for a metallic moment or classic black and white, these are the ideal sandals for weddings, everyday looks, and all your summer vacation 'fits.
- Sizes: 35 - 42 EU
- Colors: Gold, Silver, Black, White
Glowing Customer Review: "They have surpassed my expectations! From how the look and feel on and just how stylish they really are!"
Pros
- Sizing is great for those with wide feet
- Amazing arch support for a slide
Cons
- Many reviewers say the fit is *too* wide for them, especially if you have narrow feet
It's hard to find slides with arch support, but these Vionic sandals give the best of both worlds. "Thanks to the contoured, arch-supporting footbed, I can walk forever in these shoes without any pain," Cosmo Associate Editor Siena Gagliano attests. "Plus, they look super cute with any summer outfit!"
- Sizes: 5 -12
- Colors: Black/Cream, Black, Camel, Cream, Denim, Camel/Gold, Navy/Cream
Glowing Customer Review: "I love these and have worn them several times. The leather is soft and flexible. The regular width is perfect for my wide-ish feet. They do not rub or pull."
Why trust Cosmo?
Cosmo's team of digital fashion experts have decades of combined experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. These jelly sandals were chosen based on style, functionality, testability, price point, and so many reviews to put together this shoppable list of the very best for you!
Lauren Alexis Fisher is the Senior Editor at Cosmopolitan, overseeing digital content across fashion, lifestyle, beauty, sex, and culture. Previously, she was the Market Editor at Harper’s BAZAAR and has written for publications including WWD, Bustle, and W Magazine. When she’s not busy taste-testing her way through every dirty martini in New York, you can follow her on Instagram for bad jokes, good outfits, and annoying vacation pics.
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