The Best Sandals for Wide Feet, 2,000 Hours of Research and Testing Later

Our top picks provide a roomy, comfortable fit and stellar support

There’s nothing worse than your feet hurting after a long day solely because of the shoes you’re wearing. Well, fret no more! Brian Mills, PT, DPT, from OSPTKY, shared his expert opinion on the best sandals for those with wide feet. So grab a seat, prop up your feet and prepare to find your new favorite shoes.

The best walking sandals aren’t just fashionable—they’re also comfortable and supportive, whether you’re exploring a new city on foot, hiking your favorite trails, or getting your steps in on a beach somewhere. But finding a pair that doesn’t pinch or rub wide feet can be a challenge. 

When buying walking sandals, pay close attention to how they fit. This is crucial, as sandals that are too tight can cause blisters, irritation, and other injuries, says podiatrist Timothy Miller, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM. Also, look for sandals with adjustable straps that come in multiple widths, two features that can be especially helpful if you have bunions. And keep in mind that, while there are some bargains to be found, many high-quality sandals are on the expensive side, with prices on our list ranging from $50 to $150.

To find the best sandals for wide feet, we researched dozens of pairs and evaluated them based on fit, support, materials, price, and more. We also tested several pairs in the real world, wearing them for miles to find out how comfortable and durable they were for ourselves. For recommendations and buying tips, we sought expert advice from Miller, as well as physical therapists Eric Bjorkman, PT, MPT, CO, Marcia Graddon, PT, and Brian Mills, PT, DPT. 

After around 2,000 hours of research and testing, we’ve narrowed the market down to the best walking sandals for wide feet.

Our Top Picks

Best Women’s Overall:

 Vionic Women’s Amber at Amazon

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Best Men’s Overall:

 Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Men’s Sandal at Amazon

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Best Women’s Budget:

 Skechers On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport Sandal at Amazon

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Best Men’s Budget:

 Skechers Gander Louden Sandal at Amazon

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Best for Walking:

 Hoka Hopara Sandals at Zappos

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Best for Hiking:

 KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals at Amazon

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Most Comfortable:

 Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandal at Zappos

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Best Waterproof:

 Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal at Amazon

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Best for Plantar Fasciitis:

 ECCO Yucatan Sandal at Amazon

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Best for Flat Feet:

 Orthofeet Paloma Camel Sandal at Amazon

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In This Article

• Our Picks
• How We Selected and Tested
• What to Look For
• FAQ
• Why Trust Verywell Fit

Best Women’s Overall

Vionic Women’s Amber

Amazon

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Pros

• APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Four adjustable straps
• Great arch support

Cons

• Not available in half sizes

With an orthotic footbed, great arch support, and a deep heel cup, Vionic’s Amber Sandals are comfortable and supportive, making them an easy pick for one of our top overall spots. And we’re not alone in our love for them—they’ve also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, meaning a committee of podiatrists has determined that they help promote healthy feet. 

We like that the Amber is available in two widths, with four adjustable straps for a customized fit. Plus, the heel strap keeps your feet locked in and secure, so you won’t fall out of your sandals when you’re walking at a fast pace. And a lightweight, flexible foam midsole delivers good support and shock absorption, reducing stress on your feet and joints. 

Designed with a cork upper, a soft, microfiber-wrapped footbed, and two patterned gems, these stylish sandals are both functional and easy to wear. The cork upper dries quickly, and the outsole provides plenty of traction if you do get caught in wet conditions. Choose from a variety of colors and textures (just note that they don’t come in half sizes). 

Price at time of publication: $90

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Cork upper, microfiber and foam midsole, rubber outsole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: No}

Best Men’s Overall

Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Men’s Sandal

Amazon

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Pros

• Supportive contoured footbed
• Excellent traction
• Three adjustable straps

Cons

• Not waterproof

Designed to handle the long hours and rough terrain of a warm weather hike, Teva’s Terra Fi 5 Universal Sandals are our other top overall pick. These shoes feature a contoured footbed and a durable rubber outsole, to provide reliable stability and traction as you walk.

When we tested these sandals, we found they had more than enough room for wide feet. Unlike some sandals, the Terra Fi lets you adjust the size in three different places of your foot, for the perfect fit. Additionally, we noticed that the straps were soft and padded, to prevent irritation. With a cushioned heel and a firm outsole, the sandals felt extremely comfortable and supportive underfoot, even as we walked on different surfaces.

While they’re not waterproof, the straps dry quickly, so these sandals can definitely handle wet weather and water activities. Whether you’re looking for a versatile sandal for traveling, a supportive shoe for hot weather hiking, or a comfortable option for casual summer wear, we highly recommend the Terra Fi.

Price at time of publication: $110

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Recycled polyester, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: No}

Best Women’s Budget

Skechers On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport Sandal

Amazon

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Pros

• Secure, supportive fit
• Machine-washable
• Responsive cushioning

Cons

• May not be as durable

This sports sandal from Skechers has many features we love in high-end pairs, at a budget-friendly price. They’re lightweight, but still deliver a stable and secure fit for wide feet, thanks to a contoured footbed and three adjustable straps. Plus, they’re available in two spacious widths. 

The sandals’ midsole is thick and responsive for a springy stride, while the padded back strap helps prevent blisters. Additionally, the rubber outsole features multi-directional traction to keep you feeling sure-footed. We also love that you can toss them in the washing machine after a long day, to keep them looking (and smelling) clean. 

Some walkers report that the Brilliancy tends to wear down quickly, especially after walking long distances on rough surfaces. Even so, we think they’re a great value and a solid choice for casual or travel sandals.

Price at time of publication: $36

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber sole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: No}

Best Men’s Budget

Skechers Men’s Gander Louden Sandal

Amazon

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Pros

• Excellent traction
• Sporty, rugged style
• Plush memory foam footbed

Cons

• Not waterproof

High-quality sandals tend to be expensive. But there are still plenty of budget-friendly, dependable options, like Skechers’ Louden Sandal. With adjustable straps on the toe, instep, and heel, these sandals provide a secure fit for wide feet. We also like that they come in two widths, for additional room.

Ideal for outdoor adventures, the Louden offers the comfort and ventilation of a sandal, plus the support and stablility of the best trail running shoes. The pair’s textured rubber outsole will also help keep you steady on uneven terrain or in wet weather. 

We love the memory foam footbed, which provides all-day comfort and great shock absorption. Although these sandals aren’t waterproof, they’re still one of our favorite budget-friendly options for walking or hiking.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber sole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Memory foam | Waterproof: No}

Best for Walking

Hoka Hopara Sandals

Hoka 

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Pros

• Quick-lace system
• Breathable cutouts
• Wide toe box

Cons

• Expensive

Hoka’s rugged, adventure-ready Hopara Sandals offer superior comfort and support, whether you’re walking the dog, exploring a new city, or hitting the trails. With pull tabs on the collar and a quick-lace system, this pair is easy to put on and adjust. The sandals’ synthetic upper also features strategic cutouts for ventilation and drainage, while still providing a secure, locked-in feel.

When we tested the Hopara, we noticed that it felt springy, offering great bounceback with each step. We were also impressed that the sandals fit comfortably and didn’t cause any irritation or blisters, even after we walked in them for hours at a time.

The Hopara also features a spacious toe box, which lets feet naturally splay, for extra stability and comfort. With 4-millimeter multidirectional lugs, the sticky rubber sole offers exceptional traction, keeping you confident and stable on uneven or slick terrain. They are more expensive than other shoes on our list, but we think their superior comfort and durability are worth the investment—especially if you regularly walk long distances. 

Price at time of publication: $135

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Neoprene, rubber | Closure: Quick lace system | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: Yes}

Best for Hiking

KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals

Amazon

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Pros

• Secure fit
• Simple bungee laces
• Machine-washable

Cons

• Not waterproof

Keeping your feet cool and comfortable on the trails is easy with these supportive hiking sandals from Keen. The sandals’ bungee lacing makes it easy to adjust the fit, for extra breathing room. A compression-molded foam midsole provides both cushioned comfort and good arch support.

Rugged and durable, these versatile sandals are ideal for active vacations. Although they’re not waterproof, the polyester and nylon upper dries quickly, so they can be worn while kayaking and beach walking, in addition to hiking. 

We like the rubber outsole, which features multi-directional lugs for superior grip on slippery and wet terrains, while toe guards keep your feet safe from rocks, sticks, and debris. When you’re done hitting the trails, these sandals can be tossed in the washing machine, so they’ll stay clean and fresh for many hikes to come.

Price at time of publication: $115

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Polyester webbing, nylon mesh, rubber outsole | Closure: Bungee lacing | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: No}

Most Comfortable

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Leather Sandal

Birkenstock

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Pros

• Wide toe box
• Great arch support
• Adjustable straps

Cons

• No ankle strap

Birkenstock’s classic Arizona sandal is a time-tested favorite that’s stylish, supportive, and ultra-comfortable. We love the roomy toe box because it features a raised toe bar to keep your feet in the right position as you’re walking.

The natural cork footbed is sustainable and durable, while the EVA outsole offers good shock absorption and stability. There’s also plenty of built-in arch support, making the Arizona a solid choice if you have flat feet or plantar fasciitis (especially if you’re on your feet all day long). 

These sandals come in a wide range of sizes and have two adjustable straps for a customizable fit. Unlike other sandals on our list, like Vionic’s Amber Sandals, they don’t have an ankle strap for added security. However, they offer much more comfort and arch support than most slip-on sandals do, making them worth the investment.

Price at time of publication: $110

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Birkibuc upper, cork footbed, foam outsole | Closure: Adjustable straps with buckles | Cushioning: Cork, foam | Waterproof: No}

Best Waterproof

Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal

Amazon

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Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Lightweight
• Reliable traction

Cons

• May run large

Teva’s fully waterproof Hurricane Drift sandals are perfect for days at the beach, water park, or pool. Made from light and airy foam, we love that they have a durable rubber outsole with the traction and protection you need while walking in wet, uneven conditions. 

The Velcro strap is easy to adjust, so you can adjust the fit as needed. Plus, the supportive, molded insole delivers cloud-like comfort with each step. We also like that they’re budget-friendly, at less than half of the price of some other sandals on our list.

The Hurricane Drift sandals couldn’t be easier to clean—simply rinse them off after each adventure. Some wearers report that they run large, so you may want to size down. But we like that they come in a wide range of fun and neutral shades, so you can choose the ones that best suit your style.

Price at time of publication: $45

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Foam, rubber outsole | Closure: Velcro strap | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: Yes}

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

ECCO Yucatan Sandal

4.5

Amazon

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Our Ratings

• Fit 4.4/5
• Value 4.3/5
• Comfort 4.3/5

Pros

• Lightweight but supportive
• Secure, stable fit
• Good traction

Cons

• Not waterproof

If you’re prone to painful plantar fasciitis, you need a supportive sandal with plush cushioning under the heel. Ecco’s Yucatan sandals are our top pick for all-day comfort and support—plus, their open-toe design and adjustable straps make them ideal for wide feet. 

Thick foam padding absorbs shock but still feels lightweight while you walk. The contoured footbed distributes your weight and evens out pressure, which also helps prevent plantar fasciitis symptoms from returning.¹

We were impressed with the supportive cushioning when testing these sandals, especially in the heel and arch. They felt flexible in the right spots for comfortable walking, but we liked that they were also rigid enough to offer some stability. The durable rubber outsole provided exceptional traction and grip, which allowed us to move safely and confidently on all kinds of surfaces.

The soft, nubuck leather upper isn’t fully waterproof, but it dries quickly and is stylish enough for casual wear. Overall, we recommend the Yucatan if you have wide feet and a history of plantar fasciitis or other foot pain for its superior arch support and stellar shock absorption. 

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Nubuck leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: No}

Best for Flat Feet

Orthofeet Paloma Camel Sandal

 Amazon

View On AmazonView On Orthofeet.com

Pros

• Responsive rocker design 
• Built-in arch support
• Soft fabric lining

Cons

• May be too heavy for some

With built-in arch support, Orthofeet’s Paloma Sandals will keep flat feet feeling comfortable for hours. They come in two widths and feature two adjustable straps, for a custom-like fit. The wide footbed is also ideal if you have bunions or arthritis, as it provides plenty of room for your toes to splay out without falling over the edge of the sandal. 

The sandals’ ergonomic soles feature a slight rocker design, which adds a little spring to your step. Multi-layered cushioning delivers pillow-like support and good impact protection for your feet, knees, hips, and lower back. We also like the soft fabric lining, which prevents blisters and irritation. 

All that support and cushioning adds some weight, making these sandals a bit heftier than some of our other picks. However, we highly recommend them if you have flat feet because of their supportive design. With a classic yet understated look, these sandals are a versatile addition to any warm-weather wardrobe.

Price at time of publication: $125

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Leather upper, fabric lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: No}

Best for High Arches

Clarks Arla Kitly Step Sandal

Amazon

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Pros

• Antimicrobial lining
• Excellent arch support
• Four adjustable straps

Cons

• Not waterproof

The strappy Arla leather sandal from Clarks features a contoured arch and cushioned footbed, offering the support that those with high arches need. Wide sizes and four adjustable straps also make them one of our favorites for wide feet. Having straps on the top of the foot as well as around the ankle is key to getting a fit that’s not too tight or loose, according to Bjorkman.

These sandals have an antimicrobial suede lining that feels soft underfoot and helps keep your feet dry and fresh. We also like that they’re comfortable, but also stylish enough to wear almost anywhere. 

With seven colors to choose from, you can easily find a pair that suits your style. Just note that they’re not waterproof, so you’ll want to avoid wearing them at the beach to protect the suede and leather.

Price at time of publication: $110

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Leather upper, leather and textile lining, suede footbed, synthetic insole, rubber outsole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Synthetic | Waterproof: No}

Best for Bunions

New Balance 250 Adjustable Sandals

Amazon

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Pros

• Comfortable cushioning
• Available in three widths

Cons

• May not have enough arch support for some

New Balance’s 250 Adjustable Sandals are our top pick if you have bunions—those bumps that form when the bones in your feet aren’t aligned correctly. With two Velcro straps, these sandals can be adjusted so they won’t be too tight, which can irritate bunions and cause pain or discomfort. 

Mills likes that New Balance’s sandals, similar to their running and walking shoes, come in extended widths, so you can get a precise fit. The foam footbed provides sturdy, cushioned comfort, while the rubber outsole offers excellent traction to keep you steady on all types of surfaces. 

Comfortable, lightweight, and breathable, we recommend them whether you’re hiking around the lake or strolling down the beach. The 250 sandal is also a nice compromise between athletic-looking sandals and casual leather ones, making them a great option for travel. However, some wearers have found that they don’t have as much arch support as other shoes on our list, like Orthofeet’s Paloma Sandals or Clarks Arla Kitly Step Sandals.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Nylon, rubber | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: Yes}

 The 12 Best Shoes for Bunions of 2023

Best for Every Day

SAS Nudu Sandals

Amazon

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Pros

• Wide range of colors and styles
• Great support and shock absorption
• Available in five widths

Cons

• Expensive

If a shoe brand offers extended widths, like narrow, medium, wide, or extra-wide options, it’s safe to assume that they ensure that their sandals fit properly, according to Bjorkman. So you can feel confident about getting the right size with SAS’ Nudu Strap Sandals, which come in five different widths. They’re well-cushioned for all-day comfort and feature three adjustable straps that allow for a custom fit around your forefoot, ankle, and heel.

With a leather upper, they’re soft and supportive for walking, shopping, or sightseeing. The slingback strap keeps the Nudu sandals securely on, preventing your feet from sliding around. Meanwhile, the contoured footbed has layers of padding that mold to your foot shape for maximum comfort, support, and shock absorption. 

The 1-inch heel is low and shaped to help you roll through your stride, preventing fatigue. Although they’re pricey, we think these sandals’ smart, stylish design makes them a worthy investment. Choose from over 10 colors and patterns. 

Price at time of publication: $155

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Leather and fabric upper, suede footbed, synthetic outsole | Closure: Velcro, buckle straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: No}

Best for Recovery

OOFOS Sport Flex Sandals

Zappos

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Pros

• APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Excellent shock absorption
• Wide range of sizes

Cons

• Expensive
• No ankle strap

Designed to reinvigorate your feet after tough workouts, OOFOS’ Sport Flex are our favorite recovery sandals. We love that they’ve earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so you can be confident they’ll provide soothing relief. Their open-toe design and adjustable strap are very wide-feet-friendly, and although they only come in one width, we like that you can choose from many different sizes to get the best fit.

These sandals are made entirely from OOfoam—the durable, impact-resistant foam that OOFOS has become known for. The footbed feels sturdy but springy, so your feet get the perfect blend of comfort and support after a long run or a hard session at the gym. The plush material delivers effective shock absorption, reducing stress on your knees and lower back. 

The sandals’ rocker-style soles help propel you forward as you’re walking, helping to reduce fatigue. Keep in mind that they don’t have an ankle strap, so they’re not a great option for long walks, especially involving hills or uneven terrain. Still, we like that they’re moisture- and odor-resistant, making them ideal for trips to the beach or pool. 

They’re definitely more expensive than most slides, but we think they’re worth the investment if you’ve been searching for comfortable, supportive recovery sandals.

Price at time of publication: $80

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Man-made upper | Closure: Velcro strap | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: Yes}

Best for the Beach

Reef Water Vista Sandals

Reef

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Pros

• Lightweight
• Waterproof
• Stylish design

Cons

• May be too short for some

These lightweight sandals from Reef are our top pick for days at the beach, thanks to their comfortable foam cushioning, waterproof construction, and adjustable backstrap. They also feature a compression-molded footbed and outsole for excellent comfort and support. 

These casual, slingback sandals come with a Velcro backstrap, which keeps them securely on your feet as you’re walking along the shore. And once you head home from the beach, they’re easy to rinse off and quick to dry, so they’re ready to go for next time.

We love that these sandals are available in a wide range of fun and neutral colors. Their attractive style and espadrille-inspired texture make them a casual go-to. They don’t come in wide sizes, but the adjustable straps can accommodate most foot shapes and sizes. However, some wearers have noticed that the Vista Sandals are on the shorter side, so make sure your toes fit securely in the toe box when you try them on. 

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs: 
Materials: Polyurethane straps, synthetic upper, insole, and lining, foam footbed, synthetic outsole | Closure: Velcro straps | Cushioning: Foam | Waterproof: Yes}

How We Selected and Tested the Best Sandals for Wide Feet

To find the best sandals for wide feet, we first sought buying advice and sandal recommendations from the following experts:

• Eric Bjorkman, PT, MPT, CO, a physical therapist and owner of FYZICAL in Lincoln, Nebraska
• Marcia Graddon, PT, a physical therapist, certified prosthetist, and athletic trainer with The Centers For Advanced Orthopaedics in Arlington, Virginia
• Timothy Miller, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts in Orlando, Florida
• Brian Mills, PT, DPT, a physical therapist with Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy in Louisville, Kentucky

With their guidance in mind, we researched dozens of sandals for wide feet and evaluated them based on fit, support, materials, comfort, durability, price, and more. 

While we test many products in The Verywell Testing Lab, some (like walking sandals) are best assessed in the real world. We took certain pairs home and first tried them on to check the fit. After walking around in them for 30 minutes, we noted how high-quality the sandals felt and if they caused any discomfort. Then, we wore them for three hours, paying close attention to each shoe’s support and traction. Finally, we wore the sandals for a full day (at least eight hours). 

As we incorporated the sandals into our regular shoe rotation, we noted how long it took to break them in and whether they caused any blisters or irritation. We also paid attention to the toe box, checking to see if our toes had enough room or if they spilled over the edge of the sandals. At the end of the testing period, we rated each sandal on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (would recommend) in key categories like fit, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, comfort, quality, and value. 

After around 2,000 hours of research and testing, we combined our insights with tips from our experts to create our final list of recommendations. 

What to Look for in Sandals for Wide Feet

Fit and Comfort

When wearing a sandal that fits properly, your heel should sit into the heel cup and your toes shouldn’t hang over the front. No matter what size your feet or shoes are, you should still be able to see the edge of the sole all the way around the shoe, Bjorkman says. When it comes to open-toe sandals, there should be about half a thumb’s width of space from the end of your toe to the front of the sandal, according to Graddon.

For optimal comfort when walking or hiking, look for sandals that are cushioned, with good arch support and an upper made from smooth, soft materials. Many shoes on our list feature nylon, leather, and suede, which are both stylish and soft enough to prevent blisters from forming. Adjustable, padded straps will also make it easy to wear your sandals for long periods of time.

Purpose 

When buying sandals, consider when you’ll be wearing them. Are they for hiking, traveling, commuting, or just everyday wear? For hiking, look for sandals that are supportive and grippy, like Teva’s Terra Fi 5 Universal Sandals. Or, you may want closed-toe sandals for better protection, like Keen’s Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals. 

If you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, look for sandals that are comfortable, stable, and will keep your feet securely in place. A strap around the heel is important to make sure that your feet don’t slide around and to help prevent ankle injuries. We recommend Hoka’s Hopara Sandals, which are smart investment shoes you can wear just about anywhere. 

Sandals for relaxing at home or at the beach don’t have to be as cushioned, but you should still make sure they have the right fit and support to avoid pain and irritation. Reef’s Water Vista Sandals are our top pick for a waterproof pair that’s comfortable and secure—ideal for strolling along the sand.

Support 

Supportive sandals should provide arch, heel, and ball of foot protection, according to Miller. When shopping, keep your foot type in mind, since that will determine how much arch support you need, he says. For instance, if you have flat feet or foot pain like plantar fasciitis, look for sandals with built-in arch support and contoured footbeds, like ECCO’s Yucatan Sandal or Orthofeet’s Paloma Sandals. Adjustable straps, particularly ones around the ankle, will provide even more stability.

Heel Lift 

Look for sandals with a heel height of one inch or less, which will be the most comfortable for long periods of wear.² A slightly elevated heel also raises your arches slightly and helps take pressure off of your plantar fascia while you’re walking, a huge benefit for those with flat feet or plantar fasciitis.³

Durability 

When shopping for sandals, look for ones made with durable materials, like leather and rubber. Not only will they last longer, but they’ll also provide better traction. If you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking and other outdoor activities in them, it’s even more important that you select a pair that’s built to last. Try the sandals on before buying, if possible, to get a feel for how high-quality the construction is.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What kind of sandals should you wear if you have wide feet?When selecting sandals for wide feet, look for styles that offer a roomy toe box and adjustable straps, Mills says. Plenty of brands offer wide and extra-wide widths, including Birkenstock, New Balance, Hoka, and Clarks. Additionally, opt for sandals with plenty of cushioning and great arch support to provide comfort and stability for your wide feet, according to Mills.
• What sandals should you avoid with wide feet?People with wide feet should avoid sandals that are too narrow. If your foot is hanging over the sandal, it could eventually lead to pain and injuries, according to Mills. In general, most flip flops don’t have enough support or cushioning, especially for walking long distances. If you wear flimsy, flat sandals for extended periods of time, you’ll put unneeded stress on your feet and joints.
• Should sandals fit bigger or smaller?Sandals should provide a close fit—they shouldn’t feel too loose or too tight. To find the best fit, choose ones that come in a range of widths with adjustable straps, so they’ll contour to your foot shape and size, recommends Graddon.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing athletic shoes and fitness gear. She knows how important it is to find sandals that fit correctly in order to avoid injuries and irritation.