9 best walking sandals for women, according to our fashion expert
The best walking sandals will see you through everything from long hikes to days at the office, and we've picked out some of the best.
Finding a comfortable shoe may seem easy, but finding a pair that makes you feel like you're walking on a cloud and still actually looks stylish is where the challenge lies.
Supportive straps, study fits and cushioned insoles are also features to look for in a comfortable sandal, for footwear that could be worn for hours on end during city breaks and nature walks.
Some sandals have gripped soles for walks on terrain, but there are also lots on-trend options (like the celebrity-approved Birkenstocks) for less strenuous activities.
While I haven't tested the sandals for myself, I've taken time to consider the design, functions, materials and customer reviews of each shoe.
Scroll in to find the comfortable walking sandals that will help you put your best foot forward this summer.
Hotter Wide Fit Corfu Sandals
Hotter Wide Fit Corfu Sandals, £59.25 (was £79)
Hotter's brand focus is creating comfortable footwear that doesn't compromise on style, and the Corfu sandals do not disappoint.
The pair have the appearance of an on-trend sandal with a leather ankle strap and gold buckle fastening, while the Cushion+ technology is designed to add comfort and minimise fatigue.
The soft underfoot paired with the flexible soles make the sandals suitable for longer walks, and they'd make the perfect holiday shoe.
Debenhams has slashed the price of the Corfu sandals, taking them down from £79 to £59.25.
Why we love them: The comfortable, padded cushioning
They're perfect for: Those wanting a comfortable shoe that's stylish enough for everyday wear
Sizes: 3-9, Colours: Black, Material: Upper: Leather, Lining: Textile, Sole: Polyurethane
Ecco Offroad Leather Hiking Sandals
Ecco Offroad Leather Hiking Sandals, £100
Ecco's Offroad leather sandals have all the features needed for to keep comfortable during any outdoor activity.
Made from Nubuck leather, the sturdy sandals have receptor technology for comfort and stability, along with a lightweight moulded EVA footbed.
The rubber outsoles provides grip on all types of terrain, finished with quick-fastening straps that open completely.
Ecco's Offroad sandals have received an impressive 4.8-out-of-5 star rating on the brand's website.
Why we love them: They feature receptor technology for stability
They're perfect for: Keen hikers
Sizes: 2.5-9.5, Colours: Black, White, Material: Nubuck leather, rubber outsole, EVA footbed
Dr Martens Voss Hydro Leather Strap Sandals
Dr Martens Voss Hydro Leather Strap Sandals, £100
Dr Martens wouldn't be one of the first names to spring to mind when it comes walking shoes, but the brand's sandals have the same sturdiness as the iconic chunky boots.
The Voss Hydro Sandals are made from coated leather, with a wedged heel and two adjustable buckle straps.
The lightweight EVA sole has soft lining designed to be breathable, and they could be worn with everything from leggings to long satin skirts.
Finished with a matte coating on the PU leather, the Voss Hydro sandals are ideal for those looking for a practical shoe that's still super on-trend.
One thing about Dr Martens is that the shoes can take some time to break in, so it may be worth wearing them around your house a few times before taking them on a long walk!
Why we love them: The same chic style as classic Dr Martens boots, but in sandal form
They're perfect for: Dressing from day-to-night
Shoppers say: "These sandals are like walking on clouds they are so comfy I can wear them all day while I'm at work."
Skechers Go Walk Flex Sandals
Skechers Go Walk Flex Sandals, £55
Skechers' Go Walk collection is designed for walking, hiking and casual wear, with sandal and trainers options available (read the best running trainers for beginners).
The Go Walk Flex Sandals feature the brand's Ultra Go cushioned technology, containing a high-rebound effect for physical activities.
For an extra level of comfort, the lightweight cushioning is paired with a contoured footbed that moulds as you walk.
Why we love them: The Ultra Go cushioned technology will give you a spring in your step
They're perfect for: Wearing for long periods
Shoppers say: "These are the best sandals I've ever owned — they are insanely comfortable and there were no dents in my foot, no chafing, no discomfort at all.
I'm currently laying on my sofa with them still on my feet, as they're as comfortable as being barefoot."
M&S Leather Buckle Flatform Sandals
M&S Leather Buckle Flatform Sandals, £49.50
Marks & Spencer has some incredible summer pieces available right now, and the retailer's buckle sandals are a staple for the hot weather.
Made from leather, the shoes combine comfort and style with the on-trend buckle straps and slightly platformed heel.
The footwear is versatile enough to pair with almost any outfit, and I can see it being styled with Marks & Spencer's £35 butter yellow dress that 'hides lumps and bumps'.
Why we love them: They're made from real leather with a stylish buckle detailing
They're perfect for: Styling with just about any outfit
Shoppers say: "I really struggle with finding summer shoes that are comfortable as everything gives me blisters, but these have been immediately comfortable and can wear them all day."
Sizes: 3-8, Colours: Black, Material: Upper: Leather, Lining and Sock: Other materials, Outsole: Other materials
Columbia Peakfreak Roam Sandal
Columbia has a great selection of footwear for hiking and other activities, including the Peakfreak Roam sandal.
It has a traction outsole and a cushioned midsole for comfort, with a stretched heel.
The Omni-Grip design is lightweight to provide stability and grip, while the adjustable straps look like they'd give a snug fit that can be easily adjusted.
The stylish pink sandals could be worn for everyday use, walking, camping and other summer activities.
Why we love them: Omni-Grip technology for sturdiness and comfort
They're perfect for: Wearing for outdoor activities
Birkenstock Mogami Terra Stealth Sandals
Birkenstock Mogami Terra Stealth Sandals, £85
BUY AT BIRKENSTOCK
Birkenstock is practically footwear royalty, and the stylish signature design is why the sandals will never go out of fashion.
The Mogami Terra Stealth go the extra mile for practicality than the brand's other designs, with a polyurethane sole that for grip and flexibility.
The sandal is made with Birkenstock's exclusive tear-resistant and skin-friendly synthetic material, finished with the signature buckle straps.
Available in four neutral colourways, the sandal could be worn for everyday occasions, and it would make the perfect holiday shoe with its water-resistant footbed.
Read our full Birkenstock review.
Why we love them: The same signature Birkenstock design, but even more practical
They're perfect for: The water-resistant footbed makes them suitable for any occasion
Sizes: 2.5-10.5, Colours: Cream, Grey, Black, Khaki, Material: Upper: Birko-Flor, Footbed lining: polyurethane (PU), Sole: light polyurethane (PU) sole
Merrell Fleur Backstrap Sandals
Merrell Fleur Backstrap Sandals, £90
Fashion brand Merrell has a huge selection of comfortable walking shoes on its website for lovers of the great outdoors.
The Fleur Backstrap Sandals give a high-quality appearance with the full grain leather uppers and an adjustable strap for ankle support.
Rubber outsoles are a great option for those looking for durability, while the cork wrapped insole and FloatMax foam midsole add comfort across long periods.
Why we love them: High-quality full grain leather uppers
They're perfect for: Maximum ankle support
Shoppers say: "Very comfy and stylish, I wore them around and walked a couple miles the first day I got them and was impressed with the comfort."
Sizes: 3-9, Colours: Sand, Black, Cream, Material: Full grain leather, nylon, rubber
Fitflop NEO-D-HYKER (XT) Water-Resistant Adjustable Walking Sandals
Fitflop NEO-D-HYKER (XT) Water-Resistant Adjustable Walking Sandals, £63 (was £90)
BUY AT FITFLOP
Fitflop seems to have thought of everything with its walking sandals, from Neodynamic midsole with EVA cushioning to the anatomically contoured underfoot for pressure diffusion.
The gripped sole is designed to be suitable for uneven terrains, paired with water-resistant webbing that's fast-drying.
The sandals promise an ergonomically engineered design to optimise the body's natural alignment, complete with an arched contour.
Adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, while the fabric uppers are made to feel soft and cushiony on the skin.
The sandals would pair well with leggings, and you can read our tried-and-tested roundup of the best leggings.
Why we love them: The arched contour optimises alignment
They're perfect for: Hiking and other outdoor activities
Shoppers say: "I bought these sandals prior to undertaking a long walk over a number of days, they were fabulous.
Super comfortable, the adjustable straps were really helpful to ensure that they didn't rub at all."
Sizes: 3-9, Colours: Cream, Material: Uppers: Webbing polyester fabric, Lining Material: Self-lining, Fastening: Adjustable hook and loop Strap, Outsole: Slip-resistant rubber
What type of sandals do podiatrists recommend for walking?
Podiatrists usually recommend opting for sandals with a cushioned footbed for comfort and a sturdy sole for support.
Sandals with arch support are also generally recommended, as the design limits the amount of strain on the ankle and works to distribute weight evenly.
Adjustable straps are another feature to look out for, as they tend to keep the feet firmly in place for a secure fit.
Podiatrists often advise against flip flops, as they lack foot support.
Sandals with minimal footbeds also lack the support needed for walking for longer periods, causing possible strain to your feet.
What are the most comfortable women's walking sandals?
There are plenty of comfortable sandal options on the market, from big brands including Birkenstock and Hotters.
While finding the best sandal is largely down to personal preference, certain materials are considered more comfortable than others.
Footwear made from real leather is likely to provide a sturdy but soft fit, particularly compared lower quality materials.
EVA foam is also worth looking out for, as it will act as soft cushioning on the foot for a comfortable fit.
What sandals are best for long walks?
For long distance walking, the best type of sandal is one that supports the foot with features like adjustable straps.
Sturdy straps will prevent the foot from sliding around as you walk, therefore ensuring the feet stay comfortable for longer.
Support around the ankle is also ideal for walking, whether that's through its design or with a strap.
Ecco's Offroad Leather Hiking Sandals have been praised by reviewers for being comfortable during long walks, as the rubber outsoles have a strong grip for all types of terrain, along with moulded EVA footbed.
Are Fitflop sandals good for walking?
Fitflop sandals are considered good for walking, as the designs are sturdy and practical for wearing during physical activities.
Fitflop's Water-Resistant Adjustable Walking Sandals have a gripped sole for rough terrains, with a design that contours to the arch of the foot.
The shoes also provide shock absorption for the feet, with pressure distribution for support of the feet and joints.
The adjustable straps also make the sandals great for waking, as they keep the foot securely in place.
How should walking sandals fit?
Experts recommend looking for a pair of walking sandals that have a snug fit with a small amount of room, as you don't want the fit to be too tight.
Sandals with too much pressure will result in rubbing and potential blisters, so having enough room for the feet to breathe without slipping is ideal.
Feet can also swell up during the warm weather, so having a small amount of room allows for them to still be comfortable in the heat.
Is it better to size up or down in sandals?
It's usually advised that you size up rather than down in a new pair of sandals to avoid rubbing and potential blisters.
Sandals with adjustable straps have a better chance of providing the best fit, as the give more room to adapt to changes in size and temperature.
It's always worth trying sandals on before you buy them, as some brands will have shoes that are true to size, while others may run slightly larger or smaller.
Where to buy walking sandals for women
It's easy to pick up walking sandals as summer approaches both online and in dedicated shoe shops and specialist stores selling outdoor and sports gear. For the biggest choice, it's worth buying earlier, rather than waiting for a heatwave as some will sell out once the temperature rises. Try one of these recommended sites for the best choice:
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