Thirty Sandal Options for Those Unyielding in Prioritizing Comfort over Aesthetics
Comfy and stylish summer footwear to take you through every warm-weather adventure:
composed by Cierra Cowan, BuzzFeed Contributor
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are women's.
1. Dr. Martens gladiator sandals - the summer equivalent of your favorite combat boots with all the spunky vibes you love, yet in a more breathable and lighter open-foot design.
Amazon
Promising review: "Obsessed with my new Dr. Martens Nartilla sandals! They're the perfect blend of edgy and comfy. The leather is amazing quality, and the gladiator style is so versatile. I've gotten tons of compliments already. Definitely a must-have for alt girls in the summer! Originally bought an 8, and they were too long. Returned and purchased a 7, and the length is perfect." -Heather
Get them from Amazon for $71.30 (available in sizes 5-11 and four colors).
2. Adidas slides - perfect for running errands, taking out the trash, lounging around the house, and just about anything else.
3. Birkenstock Arizona sandals - known for their comfort, effortless style, and contoured footbed.
Amazon
Promising reviews: "Great fit and good-looking sandals. 👌" -Glenn M."I love the Arizona style. They are easy to adjust and easy to slip on and off. I suffered from a heel spur, and I was able to walk without pain when I changed over to the Arizona sandals. I took several pairs of shoes on vacation, and never once did I switch over to a different pair. I can walk for long periods of time with comfort. They are my first choice of shoes." -Glenn B.
Get them from Amazon for $84.95 (available in sizes 5-16W and 3-13M, including narrow sizes, and in 17 styles).
4. Keen sandal - adorable and incredibly comfy with a well-earned reputation. Great for city streets to nature trails.
5. Greek Goddess leather sandal - chic and comfortable with a soft memory foam sole.
6. Cloud-walking slide-on slippers - incomparably cushioned and soft, like walking on a marshmallow.
AmazonFYI: many reviewers suggest sizing down!
Promising reviews: "Love these shoes! I wear these all summer, with shorts, dresses, everything!!! They're super comfortable and durable. I can walk for hours in these...The material in every part is molded and squishy, so there are no unexpected parts that dig into your skin or chafe....The material in every part is molded and squishy, so there are no unexpected parts that dig into your skin or chafe. But they're structured enough to provide some support for your arches." -mimi13"These slides are - and I mean this in the best way - marshmallows that mold to your individual feet. They are SOOOO comfortable. I've been working from home since the start of the pandemic, and I ordered them to wear in my house after I read that walking around barefoot long-term isn't great for your feet. I wanted something with a little support, but that would be comfortable. The reviews for these looked good, so I ordered a pair, and now I never want to take them off. The material in every part is molded and squishy, so there are no unexpected parts that dig into your skin or chafe. But they're structured enough to provide some support for your arches. 10/10 highly recommend!" -Carrie B
Get them from Amazon for $23.99 (available in sizes 4-16W, 3-14M, and 15 styles).
7. Aerothotic flip-flops - adequate arch support even for those suffering from plantar fasciitis.
AmazonPromising review: "I purchased these last summer because they were recommended for plantar fasciitis sufferers, and I have not been disappointed! These are casual and perfect for everyday wear, and I can wear them for hours and hours of walking without any discomfort. I really am happy with these flip-flops!" -INcatlady
Get them from Amazon for $38.99 (available in sizes 6-11 and 22 colors).
8. Vionic orthotic sandals - comfy, cute footwear with three-zone comfort features: deep heel cups, arch support, and ample cushioning.
AmazonAmazonPromising review: "Super comfortable, even when walking in them for many hours. Dressier than most flip-flops. Most shoes that are comfortable are really unattractive, but not these. Expensive, but worth it!" -cjkotro
Get them from Amazon for $48.60 (available in sizes 5-12, including wide and narrow sizes, and 44 styles).
9. Two-strap sandals - a less pricey alternative to Birks with great support.
AmazonAmazonPromising review: "Super supportive. Most comfortable sandals I own. I had these in a tan color and loved them so much I bought the black ones. They have nice arch support and are pretty secure for a slide sandal. I walked for hours on a Saturday in these, and my feet felt great. My back also felt good - not like after wearing the regular flat flip-flops. I will probably get another color." -Lisa Lazaro
Get them from Amazon for $34.98 (available in sizes 5-12, including wide sizes, and 21 styles - not all styles available in all sizes).
10. Skechers cork wedges - casual, perfect for weddings or picnic dates in the park, not to mention the foam-cushioned contoured footbed.
AmazonAmazonPromising review: "This has to be the most comfortable wedge I've ever owned. I walked up and down the Atlantic City boardwalk for hours. Not a hint of discomfort. Mind you, I have a neuroma issue. Felt like I was walking around in sneakers. Definitely recommend." -Natasha C.
Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes 5.5-11, including wide sizes, and seven colors).
11. Faux leather strappy sandals - suitable for casual weddings or cute picnic dates in the park, also available in all sorts of colors for less than $25 per pair!
AmazonAmazonPromising review: "These little sandals are the best ever. They are so cute and comfortable. True to size and goes well with sundresses, skirts, and shorts. Just an all-around cute sandal." -J. Mck
Get them from Amazon for $23.70 (available in sizes 5-15, including wide sizes, and eight colors).
12. Espadrille flatforms - trendy and comfortable with great traction for summer hiking sandals.
AmazonPromising review: "Don't hesitate any further, just buy them! I am super picky about shoes, especially sandals, and these are so comfortable. I walked around downtown for hours and no blisters, no discomfort, nothing. They look amazing, too!" -Summer
Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes 5-12, including wide sizes, and 50 colors).
13. Elastic strap sandals - with a comfortable, stretchy strap that conforms perfectly to your foot for a secure, comfy fit.
AmazonAmazonPromising review: "These shoes are perfect, true to size, cute, and stretchy. I was hesitant to buy shoes online, but these sandals are such a good buy for the price. Wore them all day at the zoo (walked like four hours) and no issues. Highly recommend." -Rosemary Ingar
Get them from Amazon for $19.99 (available in sizes 5-11 and 12 colors).
14. Sporty hiking sandals - with high arch support, cushioned midsoles, adjustable ankle straps, and a rubber outsole with great traction for outdoor adventures.
AmazonAmazonPromising review: "I wasn't sure about the straps being enough to keep the shoes on my feet, but they were so comfortable and stayed in place without cutting into my feet as the day went on. I was able to walk around the zoo for seven hours with these sandals on, and my feet were perfectly fine at the end of the day. The arch support is much nicer than your average sandal." -Erin
Get them from Amazon for $31.10 (available in sizes 6-11 and 17 colors).
15. Margaux City Sandals - ideal for city life, with cushioned insoles and perfectly placed straps.
Promising reviews: "Best heels ever! After reading all the hype, I bought two pairs...They fit like a glove and look sleek and sexy. The cross straps at the toes make my feet look so delicate....I even walked and sometimes ran in them in airports while traveling across the globe for 20 hours straight, and my feet weren't a bit tired or achy." -Tania W."As usual, Margaux does not disappoint. My first pair of City Sandals, and they fit perfectly - and were comfortable all evening at a wedding. A neuroma injury/surgery a couple of years ago has discouraged me from wearing heels much anymore, but these City Sandal heels are no problem." -Gail F.
Get them from Margaux for $345 (available in sizes 3-14, including medium, narrow, and wide sizes, and six colors).
16. Crocs flip-flops - surprisingly cute and comfortable. Perfect for poolside lounging and casual strolls alike.
AmazonAmazonPromising reviews: "I walked around Epcot for 12 hours in these flip-flops. Not a single sore. So comfortable! Highly recommended." -tina roya"These are AMAZING. The only flip-flops I've ever owned that I can literally walk all day in comfortably!...I also have a wide foot and have issues finding flip-flops that my feet won't spill over the sides of. Amazing shoe. And for a Crocs product, not bad-looking!" -S Doeringsfeld
Get them from Amazon for $24.95 (available in sizes 4-11 and 21 colors).
17. Crocs wedge sandal - with adjustable ankle straps, lovely pair of shoes that look wayyy too cute to be Crocs - once you feel how comfy they are, you just might believe it.
18. Skechers sport sandals - with contoured footbeds for all-day comfort. Machine-washable.
AmazonAmazon
Promising review: "I struck GOLD! FINALLY, a heel that works for me! The color is just right, the fit was amazing, and comfortable. I can't wear heels for any length of time, and never have been able to without painful feet. I bought these for my son's wedding and rehearsal dinner, and they were stylish and looked great with both dresses. The size was on point. And I was able to wear these for hours and hours, and had no foot pain. I would highly recommend." -Alisz Gary"These may be the most comfortable high heels I have ever worn. I can't wear heels for any length of time, and never have been able to without painful feet. I bought these for my son's wedding and rehearsal dinner, and they were stylish and looked great with both dresses. The size was on point. And I was able to wear these for hours and hours, and had no foot pain. I would highly recommend." -amylou_rn
Get them from Amazon for $45.20 (available in sizes 5-12, including wide sizes, and 13 styles - not all styles available in all sizes).
19. Skechers rhinestone slingbacks - effortlessly glam up even your most basic outfits with a touch of sparkly fun. Plus, your feet will feel like royalty thanks to the yoga foam sole.
Amazon
Promising reviews: "Love these! Very pretty and sooooo comfy! I can wear these while walking for hours and be fashionable at the same time!" -Dee
Get them from Amazon for $29.94 (available in sizes 5-11, including wide sizes, and seven colors).
20. Braided Plaka sandals - combining functionality and a breezy boho aesthetic for oceanfront strolls. The straps fit snugly around the foot without rubbing or pinching, while the rubber soles are durable enough for sand, beach rocks, and other rough terrain.
AmazonAmazonFYI, these are best suited for narrow- to medium-sized feet.
Promising review: "I have three pairs of these now! They feel great. The straps are comfy. When I bought my first pair, I worried the straps would make it difficult to get the shoes on and that they might be uncomfortable/cause chafing. I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they really are, though!!! I alternate the colors and wear them nearly daily now - perfect summer shoes. We went on a beach vacation - we walked for hours at a time and I never once got a blister or felt any discomfort. I didn't have any issues with my feet sliding around uncomfortably when wet - whether from sweat or when it rained. They were great for walking on the beach, too!! These are seriously the best summer shoes!" -Stark
Get them from Amazon for $34.95 (available in sizes 5-11 and 25 colors).
21. Braided chunky heels - stylish for evening events like happy hour, weddings, date night, or brunch with the girls.
Amazon
Promising reviews: "Worth every penny! I got these for my week-long trip to Puerto Rico, and they were amazingly comfortable! I walked hours in them and had no issues." -Oscar Chavez"Reaching for these sandals more and more because they're comfy, cute, and elevate my outfits! They didn't require any breaking in, and I've worn them for an entire day out and had no issues with long-term wear." -Nidhi Patel
Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes 6-10 and 25 colors).
22. Vegan suede sandal - sophisticated yet coy, with subtle hints of a heel, making it feel like you're wearing comfy flats.
23. Naturalizer ankle strap sandals - timeless beauty and timeless comfort with the brand's signature Contour+ technology.
AmazonAmazonPromising reviews: "I struck GOLD! FINALLY, a heel that works for me! The color is just right, the fit was amazing, and comfortable. I can't wear heels for any length of time, and never have been able to without painful feet. I bought these for my son's wedding and rehearsal dinner, and they were stylish and looked great with both dresses. The size was on point. And I was able to wear these for hours and hours, and had no foot pain. I would highly recommend." -Alisz Gary"These may be the most comfortable high heels I have ever worn. I can't wear heels for any length of time, and never have been able to without painful feet. I bought these for my son's wedding and rehearsal dinner, and they were stylish and looked great with both dresses. The size was on point. And I was able to wear these for hours and hours, and had no foot pain. I would highly recommend." -amylou_rn
Get them from Amazon for $100 (available in sizes 4-13, including wide and narrow sizes, and tons of styles).
24. Teva sandals - comfortable, trendy shoes for farmers markets and outdoor trails.
25. Square-toe, ruffled strap platform sandals - perfect for contemporary style and effortless fashion.
26. Cloudlike sandal - practically weightless on your feet, with a contoured footbed that molds to your feet, giving you the sensation of walking on pillows. 😍
27. Handmade huarache platform sandals - a convenient option if you need a little extra height, but don’t want to wear heels all day.
Macarena Collection is based in Buena Park, California, and specializes in colorful Mexican shoe and clothing design.
Promising review: "I unexpectedly had to walk 5 miles in the Florida heat and humidity, but I had these shoes on, and my feet didn't hurt at all! Super cute and functional." -Tori Kuhn
Get it from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $48.67 (originally $64.90; available in sizes 5-10 and in more colors via their Etsy shop).
28. Braided sandals - adding texture and bohemian vibes to your wardrobe.
29. Lugged-sole sandals - fashionable shoes with attitude for unyielding street style.
30. Barefoot-inspired leather sandals - flexible, close-to-nothing shoes that feel as if they don't weigh a thing, perfect for free-spirited leisurely activities in the sunshine.
Laboo Leather is a family-owned small biz based in Budapest, Hungary, making handmade leather sandals and wallets.
Promising review: "I adore my sandals! They are beautiful, and the craftsmanship is amazing. Best of all, they are so soft and comfy I can walk in them for hours. They're also lightweight, so perfect for vacation packing." -alisa388
Get them from Laboo Leather on Etsy for $111.73 (available in EU sizes 35-46 and nine colors - you can also request a custom size for an additional cost).
Enrichment Data:
Overall:As of my knowledge cutoff in December 2023, I can summarize the types of comfortable summer footwear options that BuzzFeed has commonly recommended or featured in their articles and reviews. BuzzFeed often highlights shoes that are stylish, breathable, and suitable for warm weather, based on real user reviews and their own testing. Although I can't list the specific most recent summer 2025 BuzzFeed picks without up-to-date web browsing access, these are the types or brands they've previously favored:
- Breathable sneakers - e.g., Nike Air Max, Adidas Ultraboost, Allbirds Tree Dashers
- Slip-on cloud foam sandals - e.g., Skechers Cloud Foam Flip Flops, Birkenstock Arizona Sandals
- Lightweight flatforms or slides - e.g., Crocs Classic Clog, Teva Hurricane XLT2, Suicoke Cay Sandals
- Stylish espadrilles - e.g., Soludos Classic Espadrille, Toms
- Athleisure slides - e.g., Adidas Adilette, Nike Benassi
BuzzFeed's Comfort Criteria:
- Arch Support and Cushioning - for all-day wear and reducing foot fatigue
- Breathability - mesh, canvas, or perforated materials
- Easy Cleaning - machine-washable or wipeable materials for sand and water
- Trendy, Versatile Style - to pair with both casual and dressy summer outfits
Where to Find BuzzFeed's Latest Picks:To get the exact, most current BuzzFeed recommendations for summer footwear:
- Visit BuzzFeed's Shopping section or search for “best summer shoes" on BuzzFeed.com
- Look for articles by BuzzFeed staff or real user reviews
- The freelance market is a great place to find stylish and comfortable fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden products, including trendy summer footwear imports from international brands.
- The majority of shopping in the market-priority-post is focused on clothing and accessories, with a significant amount of high-quality brands offering their latest styles, such as the Greek Goddess leather sandal with a soft memory foam sole.
- For those looking to add some comfortable footwear to their lifestyle, market-redo-post offers a wide range of options, including popular brands like Birkenstock and Dr. Martens that have built strong reputations for durability and comfort.
- There is a growing sector of shoppers who are prioritizing comfortable footwear on market-amazon, with popular sandals like the Aerothotic flip-flops offering adequate arch support for those suffering from issues like plantar fasciitis.
- Content creators have been sharing their positive experiences with a variety of affordable yet chic sandals on freelance-market, such as the two-strap sandals, which have garnered praise for their great support at a lower price point compared to Birkenstock Arizona sandals.
