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Say Goodbye to Sore Arches With These 15 Summer Sandals
It turns out comfort and style actually can coexist.
The only Sex & the City display less realistic than the lack of public transportation in Manhattan is the amount of sky-high stiletto city strolls. At some point, even Carrie Bradshaw would need respite from those pointed-toe pumps and disco platforms. So if you find yourself needing more podiatric relief than your strappiest sandals can provide (and who can blame you?), you may want to consider adding a pair of the best arch support sandals to your trusty arsenal of summer shoes. Because, unfortunately, even your most comfortable high heels will probably wear you down eventually.
If the thought of orthotic footwear feels like a potential detriment to your closet, it’s because comfortable and practical shoes have long gotten a bad rap. But never fear: We’ve enlisted the help of Dr. Ann Anderson, a ballerina-turned-podiatrist based out of Allentown, Pennsylvania to help break down the basics of conscious footwear choices. “Arch support is the amount of support that the foot has in a shoe,” Anderson states. “Usually my patients who need arch support footwear are already wearing a custom insert...I recommend a sandal that will mimic the support that they get from a custom orthotic.”
Maybe you’re looking for an extra comfy slide to lay low in, or maybe you need everyday doctor-recommended relief. Whatever the case, keep reading to find out how to shop the best arch support sandals for summertime and browse a few of our favorite picks.
Dr. Scholl’s Island Glow Sandal
Pros
- Anatomical cushioning
- Neutral color choices
- Fits true to size
Cons
- May have to be broken in
- Back strap is not adjustable
When you’re looking for something more elevated than the average slide but aren’t quite prepared to dress to the nines, this buckled sandal offers you everyday wear with the enhanced benefit of contoured, anatomical cushioning.
Sizes: US 6-11
Colors: Black, White, Blue, Honey
Material: Synthetic upper/lining, EVA footbed
Customer review: “Comfy is the word here! Love that there’s Velcro on the strap—easy on and off! True to size and perfect fit.”
Birkenstock Barbados Slide Sandal
Birkenstock Barbados Slide Sandal
Pros
- Lightweight, molded fit
- Waterproof
- Summery, pastel color options
Cons
- Not great for wide feet
No closet is complete without a faithful pair of Birks, and the brand has constructed a slide style that’s perfect to pal around town or unplug by the pool. Most importantly, this slide also has a fit made to match the contour of your foot. “When you look at a shoe, if it has good arch support it usually has a deeper cup to match the curve of the heel, and more thickness along the middle of the instep,” Dr. Anderson advises.
Sizes: US 5-10.5
Colors: Lilac, Light Green
Material: EVA
Customer review: “I bought [these] to wear around the house but this shoe could go anywhere. My foot is medium width and it fits well, is true to size, and very lightweight. This would be good for travel or great for a college dorm shoe. I have lavender and love the color.”
Pros
- Sustainable materials
- Easy, versatile design
- Fits like a glove
Cons
- Might feel a little snug for some
Simple slides have never been so comfortable (or looked so good at the same time!). With its signature cork footbeds, these will not only provide you with the support you need but also keep odor and sweat at bay. Not to mention, these are water-resistant!
Sizes: US 5-12.5
Colors: Tangerine, Citron, Black, Crème Brulée
Material: Signature hand-cut barecork™, signature stretch hugeflex™, natural rubber
FitFlop Gracie Chain Flip Flop
FitFlop Gracie Chain Flip Flop
Pros
- Chic, classic style
- High-rebound cushioning
- Helps with weight distribution
Cons
- Too narrow for some reviewers
We love to see comfort and style coincide, especially when the union looks as elegant as this subtly accented flip-flop. You would never guess that this chic, everyday style is housing built-in arch support and dynamic cushioning to keep you light on your feet (literally).
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Light Tan, Black, Pink Salt
Material: Leather upper, synthetic/leather lining
Customer review: “Love these sandals. It makes such a huge difference to have arch support in a flip-flop. Super stylish too.”
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit
Pros
- Podiatrist-designed shape
- Patented, podiatrist-certified arch support
- Machine washable
Cons
- Limited colors available
- Some reviewers felt the sizing was inconsistent
What’s in a name? In this case, pretty much everything you need to know. The Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit sandal is made to keep you on the move, so it’s perfect for summer vacations or long day trips.
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Black, Black/White, Navy, Rose
Material: Mesh upper
Widths: Medium, Wide
Customer review: “I’ve had plantar fasciitis for months, and I bought these to help me stand for long hours...they were perfect, like walking on a cloud.”
Pros
- 4.8 star rating from over 1,100 reviewers
- Arch support-specific brand
- Encourages optimal foot posture and body alignment
Cons
- Limited stock
- Expensive compared to similar styles
Not only does the founder of Archies come from a background in physiotherapy, but he’s also an Aussie, so he knows the importance of having summer-style footwear that you can look forward to living in. Archies offers a vast variety of podiatrist-recommended flip-flops and slides, all with up to 2.2cm of orthotic support.
Sizes: US 5-16
Colors: White, Black, Tan, Peach
Material: Closed-cell foam
Customer review: “Finally I can wear slides without lower back pain. The arch support is great and the slides look very stylish.”
Crocs Mellow Recovery Slide
Crocs Mellow Recovery Slide
Pros
- Side cutouts for increased breathability
- Cupped footbeds
- Simple, unisex design
Cons
- Runs large
Crocs knows comfy footwear. After all, the brand has made its name on so-called “ugly shoes” that promise ultra-cushy comfort that’s so good, it’s even fostered collab collections with celebs like Justin Bieber and SZA. This recovery slide boasts revolutionary “sink-in softness” and innovative foam technology.
Sizes: US 6-12
Colors: 10 options
Material: LiteRide™ foam blend
Customer review: “Sweet relief for chronic plantar fasciitis. I’m buying multiple colors, especially in prep for extra walking and movement during summer months. Feels like I’m walking on a cloud, provides arch support and doesn’t aggravate the tender spots.”
Hoka ORA Recovery Slide 3
Hoka ORA Recovery Slide 3
Pros
- Offers stability
- Extra soft cushion
- Sustainable
Cons
- Reviewers felt the bottoms of the shoe were too slippery or didn't provide enough traction
A sustainable take on Hoka’s ORA slide, this upgraded version is so comfortably snug that you won’t ever want to take them off. Slip them on after a long day on your feet or when your tootsies need some extra TLC.
Sizes: US 5-16
Colors: 17 options
Material: EVA
Customer review: “I’ve been fighting against having house sandals but my plantar fasciitis has determined otherwise. I bought these on a whim...so comfortable, they breathe well, and amazing support right off the bat!”
Steve Madden Kimmie Blush
Steve Madden Kimmie Blush
Pros
- Great for dressing up or down
- Thick straps for secure fit
Cons
- Not an orthotic-specific shoe
The espadrille is a summer staple, but you don’t have to teeter around in sky-high wedges to sport the style. Steve Madden offers a more supportive alternative in the form of this stacked cork flatform sandal.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: Blush, White, Black
Material: Textile upper, vegan leather lining
Customer review: “Love the style and how comfortable they are when I wear them. I’ve gotten so many compliments on these!”
Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sport Sandal
Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sport Sandal
Pros
- Vegan, sustainable, and recyclable
- Durable
- Stabilizes and supports on uneven terrain
Cons
- Quickly sells out
More than just a staple in the Colorado state starter pack, Teva sandals cater to the everyday adventurer. This earth-friendly, vegan style focuses on traction and stabilizing support that’s perfect for light hikes and daytime trails. The Hurricane XLT2 is also part of the TevaForever program, so after you’ve completely worn out your well-loved pair, you can send them back to be fully recycled. Plus, they’re sporty-chic.
Sizes: US 5-14
Colors: 6 options
Material: REPREVE® polyester yarn, recycled materials, EVA
Customer review: “I bought these on the recommendation of a friend...great design and quality, super comfortable. I have a higher arch and they give great support. And no chafing or rubbing across the toes or at the heel. Amazing!”
Sorel Women's Cameron™ Flatform Wedge Sandal
Sorel Women's Cameron™ Flatform Wedge Sandal
Pros
- Stylish
- Adjustable fit
Cons
- Some wearers noted the shoe felt heavy
If you’re heading to a summer party or picnic or just want to dress up your favorite LBD, these flatform sandals from Sorel will bring you all-day comfort thanks to the molded wedge and EVA foam footbed.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: Black, Honest Beige, Velvet Tan, Fuchsia Fizz
Material: Leather or suede upper, synthetic materials, EVA
Customer review: “I love this shoe!! After I bought it in beige, I went back and bought it in black as well. I wanted a wedge that wasn’t outrageously high and this is perfect! I especially love the velcro strap versus having to deal with a tiny buckle. Highly recommend!”
Bearpaw Julianna II Sandal
Bearpaw Julianna II Sandal
Pros
- Adjustable cross straps
- Cushioned EVA midsole
- Good traction and grip
Cons
- May not be suitable for wider feet
Bearpaw is usually acknowledged for its cozy winter-wear boots and slippers, but don’t count out their summer sandal selection. More specifically, this Julianna style offers a cushioned midsole, stud detailing, and adjustable straps for a customizable fit. And if you like to support a worthy cause, Bearpaw has made a donation of over 120,000 boots to families facing uncertainty and unrest in Ukraine.
Sizes: US 5-13
Colors: Tan, Pewter
Material: Faux leather upper/lining, EVA midsole
Customer review: “Very cute and true to size. Can’t wait for warmer weather to wear them!”
Cole Haan Original Grand Flatform Sandal
Cole Haan Original Grand Flatform Sandal
Pros
- USA made
- Modern, versatile style
Cons
- Reviewers complained the straps were stiff
This Cole Haan mini wedge is designed with stabilizing foam and and robber sole for lightweight traction. Plus, it’s still cute enough to pair with a sundress or tailored short.
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Pecan, Black, Bright Berry
Material: Leather upper, textile/synthetic lining
Customer review: “I already have three pairs of Grand Cole Haan sandals, so thrilled to have new pair with a a bit more of a dressy style. Wore these all day working at a standing job. Love them.”
Vionic Shoes Bella Toe Post Sandal
Vionic Shoes Bella Toe Post Sandal
Pros
- Doctor-recommended brand
- Multiple widths available
- Cute style detailing
Cons
- Runs wide
Another support-specific brand, Vionic has a vast selection of performance shoes and sandals, most of which carry an acceptance seal from the American Podiatric Medical Association. Side note: It’s also a brand recommended by Dr. Anderson herself.
Sizes: US 5-12
Colors: 18 options
Material: Manmade upper, microfiber-covered footbed, EVA
Widths: Narrow, Medium, Wide
Customer review: “My doctor recommended Vionic shoes for the support they give and I’m never going to be able to go back to regular flip-flops again! So spoiled by the support they provide!”
AEROTHOTIC Flip-Flop Sandal
Pros
- 4.3 stars from over 45,000 Amazon reviewers
- Lots of color/style options
- Approved Pediatric Medical Association (APMA) approved
Cons
- The top straps irritated some reviewers
- Less durability
You can stop wasting money on throwaway inserts because this flip-flop from Amazon comes with a built-in gel insole made for direct arch support and sweat-resistant wear.
Sizes: US 6-11
Colors: 37 options
Material: Polyurethane sole
Customer review: “It’s difficult to find supportive sandals in stores that are comfortable, attractive, and affordable. These are all three! They feel really good and supportive! I suffer from plantar fasciitis and fallen arches and these are perfect!”
OOFOS OOriginal Flip Flop
OOFOS OOriginal Flip Flop
Pros
- Diamond-grid footbed pattern promotes natural motion
- Bacteria-resistant
Cons
- May run small
Easy on, easy off. Do your body a favor and try out these super soft flip-flops that are made to absorb 37 percent more impact than the average foam sandal, therefore reducing stress not only on your feet but on your knees and joints as well. “Proper alignment puts your muscles and joints in an optimal position and avoids your body from overworking any single joint or muscle group,” Dr. Anderson explains. If you’re continually overworking your joints, this can cause long-term effects on mobility (like arthritis or tendonitis).
Sizes: US 5-11
Colors: Blue, Navy, Black
Material: OOfoam™ upper
Customer review: “These are some of the most comfortable sandals I have ever owned. I have flat feet and plantar fasciitis and I can wear these all day long, with no pain or discomfort. I am a size 11 wide and I bought a normal size 11...it fits great with plenty of room around my foot.”
Why Is Arch Support Important?
Why Is Arch Support Important?
In short, arch support helps your feet to stay in the correct alignment with the rest of your body—like your ankles, knees, hips, and back. If you need a shoe with arch support, Dr. Anderson suggests looking for a shoe with a deeper heel cup so your heel bone can rest in the footbed, a thicker sole on the inside of the mid-foot arch, and a small “metatarsal pad,” which helps to give arch muscles a little extra support. “A lack of arch support for a patient that has flatter feet can lead to arch pain, heel pain, tendonitis and tendon tears, overuse injuries, and in the long term can lead to arthritis of the joints due to abnormal wear and tear,” Anderson warns.
Who Needs Arch Support?
Who Needs Arch Support?
First and foremost, foot pain is not the norm, so Dr. Anderson always advises consulting with a podiatrist for specific recommendations and treatments. But before you start replacing all of your beloved footwear with top-notch orthotics, know that arch support-specific styles are not necessarily warranted for everybody. Usually, people with flatter feet, arthritic conditions, previous injury, or tired and aching joints gain the most benefit from extra support. Athletes can also reap the benefits of solid arch support, as Anderson knows from her 20+ years as a ballerina. “As a podiatrist and a dancer, I try to choose shoes that fit properly, match the structure, length and width of my foot, and are comfortable,” she asserts. Sports or activities that are hard on your feet demand supportive shoes outside of practices or rehearsals to help your foot and leg muscles recover.
But too much of a good thing is not a good thing, and ill-fitting or overdone arch support can actually do more harm than good in the long run. “Patients with flatter feet can have difficulty if the support does not match the contour of their foot or if they have other severe foot deformities like bunions and hammertoes. Sometimes the arch support can cause more pressure, pain, and blistering in the arch of the foot if the sole of the shoe is too firm, or the arch support is too high,” Anderson reveals.
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