18 Best Walking Sandals for Women, Approved by Podiatrists and Glamour Editors

• What we love: “Barefoot” shoes encourage natural stride and posture; super light and packable for easy traveling
• What could improve: Won’t be for everyone; barefoot shoes take some time to get used to

With an ergonomic design our podiatrist says can help “encourage natural movement,” these are our top pick for travel this year based on comfort for long days on your feet, how well they pack down for travel, and the extra-durable, grippy outsole perfect for wandering all over. They have a simple cross-strap with one closure for easy on and off, and we also love the protective toe cap to help prevent stubbed toes. Before committing to a long time on your feet, ease into this more minimal style with shorter outings. For the unisex model, size down.

What our reviewer says: I believe feet are naturally resilient and tuned to healthy movement, and these Vivobarefoot Tracker sandals can strengthen feet by encouraging natural movement. This is especially important for women’s health, as strong functional feet support better posture, balance, and overall mobility, helping to prevent issues like knee, hip, and lower back discomfort. —Rina Harris, functional podiatrist

Sizes: 7–15 | Colors: 2 options

• What we love: Extremely comfortable; great for walking; half sizes and wide sizes offered
• What could improve: Not very stylish; colors are limited

“These are basically your comfiest, podiatry-coded sneakers in sandal form, so they’re perfect for hot weather without sacrificing comfort or foot health,” says Glamour contributor Danielle Sinay of her Clarks, which have several layers of shock-absorbing foam (kind of like a mattress) and three Velcro straps that adjust the shoe’s fit to your foot. After (and honestly, before) a long day of standing in heels or flats, these are absolutely the shoe you’ll want to cradle your exhausted soles. They’re also a smart choice for anyone with wider feet, as they have wide options (including half sizing).

What our reviewer says: After more than a decade of living in New York City, I’ve finally turned into someone who owns commute shoes and office shoes because my back and feet just can’t take it anymore. My summer commute sandals of choice? The Clark’s Mira Bay sandals, as recommended by my mother. My high-maintenance, injury-prone feet and lower back love them; I can walk forever and not feel a smidgen of pain. I’ve already posted about how much I love these to my own Instagram Stories, since every time I find a pair of sandals that is actually good for problematic feet and walking long distances, I feel the need to tell everyone. So here I am doing it again. Just trust me! And my mom! —D.S.

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 4

• What we love: Ergonomic footbed; easy to slide on and off; extremely durable
• What could improve: Footbed can feel a little sweaty on a hot day

While Chaco is best known for its classic crisscross Z Sandals with a secure heel strap, the ideal webbing adjustments can be tricky, and people with wider feet can wind up with one side feeling tight. Problem solved with these convenient, comfortable slides. Built with Chacos’ supportive, ruggedly durable materials and a soft polyester jacquard webbing strap system, these are easier to adjust than the classic style and allow your feet to splay out and accommodate for swelling.

What our reviewer says: I wear the Chacos slides when I want to be comfortable but not look quite so “outdoorsy” as in other sandals—they have cute, wide straps and pair well with everything from jeans to dresses. But I wore them walking around cities and to natural sights in Ecuador, and they’re still super comfy for long walks. —Hannah Singleton, gear tester and Glamour contributor

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 4 options

• What we love: Comfortable; supportive; wide range of colors; three adjustable straps; ideal for walking long distances
• What could improve: Strap ends dangle off the side of the foot if it’s tightly fitted

There are some days when you just know you’ll be on your feet for hours—whether you’re trekking to every landmark in a new city, hiking, or aimlessly wandering. The most comfortable sandal for all those steps you’ll get in is hands-down the Teva Hurricane XLT2. Made of recycled plastic and polyester, the sandals have thick, textured footbeds and straps that you can adjust in three areas for a secure fit (behind the heel, across the ankle, and above the toes). As a bonus, the sandal comes in a ton of splashy colors and patterns.

What our reviewer says: My favorite thing to do on a beautiful weekend is just walk and walk for miles across Brooklyn (where I live). On those days I pull on these sandals. They are so comfortable! The most comfortable shoe in my wardrobe, by far. I can actually feel them absorbing the shock of my feet pounding the pavement, yet they’re so airy and light (which I cannot say of my Chacos). —Malia Griggs, Glamour commerce editor

Sizes: 5–11 | Colors: Over 40 options

If your day is shaping up to be too hot or wet for hiking boots, reach for Chacos instead. These best-selling Z-strap sandals have some of the most durable outsoles we’ve encountered, offering plenty of grip on uneven terrain during any adventure you find yourself on. The straps and sole are quick-drying, so don’t worry about stomping through puddles or wearing them to muddy festivals.

• What we love: Adjustable straps; tons of colors; durable design; wide sizing
• What could improve: Heavy; adjustable strap drags on ground
• What our reviewer says: Chacos are built to withstand the wilderness, thanks to their heavy rubber soles, durable webbing, and snug heel straps. But while they excel as sporty hiking sandals, they aren’t just great for long days on the trail; I love their crunchy, utilitarian charm for walking around New York too. Along with Keens and Merrells, they’re the epitome of dorky-cute. (And don’t worry—they won’t make you look too much like a Deadhead unless you really lean into the tie-dye.) —Jake Henry Smith, Glamour commerce editor

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: More than 30 options

Another crisscross favorite are these Franco Sarto sandals, which Teen Vogue commerce editor Shauna Beni-Haynes says were so comfy that she wore them for hours exploring the streets of Bangkok. “By the time I got back to my hotel at night, I had no heel or toe pain,” she says.

• What we love: Classic; easy to walk in; come in half sizes
• What could improve: They’re not easy to find on many retailers’ websites
• What our reviewer says: When shopping for sandals, I always look for a cute design, good support, and secure straps. So when I came across this Franco Sarto pick at DSW, I knew I had to have them (plus they were and still are on sale!). Aside from the gorgeous wrap-around ankle strap, I love the gold detailing that’s around the footbed. —Shauna Beni-Haynes, Glamour contributor

Sizes: 6–11 | Colors: 4 options

• What we love: Unique design; supportive soles and midsoles; plenty of color options
• What could improve: Might run too wide

Sorel’s rubber-and-leather sandals don’t look like walking shoes, but they’re just as comfy and supportive as they are eye-catching. The shock-absorbing EVA midsoles are molded into a scalloped design, offering more traction than your average wedge sandals. Anyone else getting Marni vibes?

What our reviewer says: Thanks to an old injury, I only wear comfortable—borderline orthopedic, if I’m honest—shoes. Unfortunately, it can be a struggle to find options that still look cool without always relying on sneakers and Birkenstocks. So I was happily surprised when I found these platform sandals by Sorel, a brand best known for its weatherproof boots. Wearing these is like walking around in open-toe sneakers—in fact, I find them even more supportive than a lot of the tennis shoes I own. I’ve worn them to work, on vacation, and out with friends, and I love how they work with (almost) any outfit. And because they have a unique look, I get compliments every time I wear them. They also come in a lot of fun color options so you can find the vibe that best matches you. I own a white pair currently, but I’m debating between adding the black or beige to my closet. —Anna Moeslein, Glamour deputy editor

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 4 options

• What we love: Height-boosting sole; lightweight design; unique look
• What could improve: Might run small

Supportive sandals need not be boring—just look at these stompers from Melissa. If you’re headed to a music festival this season, you can trust this pair to cradle your feet and keep you upright all day long. They’re clunky-looking but deceptively lightweight. Oh, and like all of the brand’s shoes, they even smell like bubblegum.

What our reviewer says: Melissa’s chunky plastic sandals immediately take me back to my childhood-favorite jelly shoes, but the playful yet practical design makes them feel sleek enough to wear to work. Having worn these consistently for three summers now, I can safely say they are comfortable enough and sturdy enough for long summer walks. And if that wasn’t enough, Melissa’s shoes are vegan and recyclable, and the company has a strong commitment to eco-friendly production. —Anastasia Sanger, Glamour social video producer/editor

Sizes: 5–10 | Colors: 11 options

• What we love: Slightly elevated heel; comfortable straps; versatile look
• What could improve: Might fit too loose

Effortless to dress up or down, these mixed-material sandals come in four easy-to-wear colors and cost way less than what you might expect. (Also, they don’t scream “Dr. Scholl’s.”) There’s plenty to love here—soft footbeds and high-traction soles stand out—but we’re especially impressed by the adjustable elastic straps, which look great and offer a perfect fit.

What our reviewer says: The passion I feel for these shoes is almost concerning, but I guess we all need hobbies. These Dr. Scholl’s sandals have been my go-to summer flats for the past few years, since they’re so simple, cute, and unbelievably comfortable. I’ve worn them to the office as well as on several vacations—the beach in Mexico, the beach in Puerto Rico, and all over Miami—and they never let me or my feet down. If you’ve seen me IRL at any point it’s been hot over the past year, I was almost definitely wearing them. I actually wore them on my first day at Glamour, because again, passion. (But that proves how easy to dress up they are!) —D.S.

Sizes: 6–11 | Colors: 7 options

• What we love: Waterproof; many color options; relatively affordable; lightweight
• What could improve: Might be too wide; light colors stain easily

An all-foam take on the brand’s classic Arizona style, this popular pick is perfect for vacationing. It’s waterproof, lightweight, and easy to stuff in a carry-on. There’s no ankle strap, but the brand’s signature insole literally molds to your feet over time, ensuring a secure fit. Just note that Birks are not for people with extra-narrow feet; these things give your dogs room to breathe.

What our reviewer says: I’ve been resisting Birks for decades, but when the colorful EVA versions of their signature sandals were released and I slipped my feet into them, I simply couldn’t ignore how comfortable they were. Beyond being truly squishy and shock-absorbing, they’re also light as air, which makes them perfect for popping into a suitcase if you’re traveling to a warm destination. They’re also waterproof. They’re my absolute favorite pool and beach companion, but they can endure walking long distances, and there’s no blistery break-in period. Although they don’t offer the same arch support as the leather version, I find these infinitely more dreamy, and they last. My husband also lives in his. —Brie Schwartz, Glamour commerce director

Sizes: 5–10.5 | Colors: 10 options

• What we love: Specifically designed for orthopedic support and even body weight dispersion
• What could improve: Not the most orthopedic shoes we’ve seen, but won’t win any style awards

The Orthofeet Malibu sandal is our recommendation for people with existing foot conditions, “as well as women looking for a walking sandal that encourages proper foot and ankle biomechanics and alignment,” says physical therapist Troy Hurst. These benefits come from a combination of orthotic footbed, heel cushioning (including the option of a removable Arch Booster for extra cushioning), and overall arch support. In technical terms, these features help disperse and transfer body weight across the appropriate areas of the foot throughout each phase of the gait cycle. This in turn helps alleviate pressure points and reduces additional stress through the Achilles tendon.

What our reviewer says: The Malibu’s deep heel cup assists in stabilizing the foot, enhancing overall alignment, and the sandals include a seam-free, padded hook-and-loop strap closure, allowing for a personalized fit for a wide range of foot shapes and preferences. These are a smart option for individuals with a variety of foot conditions, along with anyone who values long-term foot health and function. —Troy Hurst, PT, DPT

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 2 options

• What we love: Bio-based foam similar to Crocs for cushioned, springy support.
• What could improve: Unisex design might feel wide for low-volume feet

This brand is new to us this year, but sliding on a pair of these Recovery Flip-Flops after a high-mileage run or long day on your feet is an incredible relief. Molded in just one piece of lightweight, bio-based foam, the shoe is designed with a deep heel cup, shock absorption through the entire foot, and a textured platform that helps improve circulation. We toss a pair of these in our gym bag for an instant boost after a hard workout. Plus, they’re incredibly lightweight and packable, perfect for bringing to your next running event. These have unisex sizing, so keep that in mind when choosing your pair.

What our reviewer says: These new Recovery Flip-Flops fit perfectly and feel so good I forget I have them on. I have a similar recovery shoe from a different brand, and these are much more comfortable to me. I especially like the nonslip surface on the footbed; this makes them safer if they get wet because I know my feet won’t slide in them. —C.D.

Sizes: 6–15 | Colors: 7 options

• What we love: Soft straps made from recycled materials; comfortable footbed
• What could improve: Foam outsole is somewhat less durable than rubber options

For a soft, supportive platform and a strap system with none of the dreaded between-toe blisters, look no further than Teva’s made-for-walking Voya Flip-Flops. Teva’s Mush topsole conforms to your feet while the EVA outsole is lightweight and flexible. However, the biggest benefit to these has been the relief from blisters and strap rubbing, a perennial problem associated with this style. But Teva has worked to keep their materials and strap connectors soft and easy to wear, and this pair is our top pick for beach days where we’ll be wandering up and down the boardwalk.

What our reviewer says: Long have I suffered with plastic and rubber flip-flops that tore my feet to shreds and left gaping holes on the inside of my big toe. These Tevas are the first pair that I can slip on at the beginning of summer and not suffer any adverse break-in consequences. I especially appreciate the cushioned footbed which feels less slippery and absorbs sweat better than straight rubber.—M.S.

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 4 options

• What we love: Three-layer sole system provides protection from the ground and excellent traction
• What could improve: Minimal cushioning can take some time to get used to

These minimalist sandals pack down flat, weigh just a few ounces, and are one of the most popular barefoot styles on the market. While barefoot shoes take some time to get used to and aren’t for everyone, people looking for a more natural footfall and alignment will feel the benefits. The Z Trail EV was made for walking and even has a more cushioned outsole with grippy lugs for light trail use (similar to the Chacos we love for hiking). The three-layer soles are flexible, and the webbing straps are thin but durable, plus the whole pair weighs just 8.6 ounces—perfect for tossing into a beach bag.

What our reviewer says: I recommend Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV for people with bunions or wider feet. This sandal is considered more of a flat, less cushioned option which allows your foot to move through a natural plane of motion. Plus, the multiple adjustment points allow you to create a secure fit and wrap around the back of the ankle. —Alissa Kuizinas, DPM

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 8 options

• What we love: Colorful; fun; comfy; easy to clean
• What could improve: If you don’t apply sunscreen to your feet, you might end up with a Tory Burch logo tan line.

Tory Burch’s iconic Miller sandals are known for their soft Napa leather, lightly cushioned footbed, logo strap, and array of vibrant color offerings. Though they’re maybe not cloudlike enough for hours of walking, Glamour senior editor Jessica Radloff says they’re the pair she slides on for everyday wear and light strolls.

What our reviewer says: Tory Burch released a limited-edition Ice Cream Shop collection of its signature Miller sandal, and I’m so obsessed that I have two pairs (and counting, because these colors are as addicting as the dessert flavors they’re named for). The Italian-inspired sandal is super comfortable for long walks thanks to its supersoft leather and cushioning. Plus, they’re really stylish, so I can wear them with linen shorts during the day or a summer dress for a night out. They truly are very comfortable. —J.R.

Sizes: 5–12 | Colors: 20 options (4 limited-edition)

• What we love: Excellent cushioning and arch support; grippy outsoles for pool decks
• What could improve: A little expensive for a simple pair of foam shoes

These simple slides are made with just one piece of injection-molded foam for the ideal pair of lightweight footwear that our resident medical student calls “the perfect antidote to six hours on my feet in anatomy lab.” She slides these on after a long day of school, and also brings them on vacation as her go-to pool slides. The material is antimicrobial to help eliminate any yucky mildew smells, and like our other favorite Birkenstocks, the footbed is molded to a comfortable shape with plenty of arch support.

What our reviewer says: I keep a pair of these at home and in my pool bag. They are super light and comfortable, and are the perfect antidote to six hours on my feet in anatomy lab. I’m always on the lookout for a pair of easy-to-clean pool and shower sandals, but I do want a cozy feel and good support. These deliver on every end. —S.M.

Sizes: 5.5–12 | Colors: 2 options