11-06-2025
19 best sandals for women that are comfortable and supportive, recommended by a podiatrist: Birkenstocks, Crocs, Lululemon & more
As the temperatures start to rise and sunny days stretch longer, it's time to swap out those heavy shoes for something a little breezier. In summer 2025, supportive sandals are stepping up with smarter designs, ergonomic features and trend-forward looks that keep your feet happy all season long. Whether you're walking city streets for long distances, hitting the beach or just needing some stylish yet supportive footwear, we've got you covered. You'll want to consider some key factors when selecting footwear to keep your feet happy all summer long.
According to Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, you'll want to look for a sandal that offers arch support, cushioning, durability and breathability.
There are a lot of factors to consider when selecting a supportive sandal for summer — and Pinker says to choose footwear that prioritizes both comfort and support.
"Supportive sandals should have comfortable arch support, appropriate outsole traction for the intended activity, added cushion, durable uppers, adjustable straps and shock absorption. They should also fit securely with ankle straps for added support and a secure fit," he explains.
The podiatrist also says to pay attention to how your toes sit at the end of the sandal, as well as the fit of the shoe around your entire foot.
"Summer sandals should possess secure ankle straps to accommodate long walks. Also, there should be no overhang and there should be a comfortable, supportive arch," Pinker says. "Sandals are not suitable for a person's feet if they fit too tightly and cause blister formation, fit too loosely so that the footwear slides around when you walk or fit in such a way that the foot hangs over the edge of the footwear."
Pinker also recommends wearing different types of sandals for different terrains or activities in the summer.
"Hiking sandals are more appropriate for extended outdoor walks in the woods than fashion sandals. Hiking sandals are often very durable with enhanced traction on the outsole," he says.
He also had a few other suggestions for the material of the sandal to keep feet cool and dry this summer.
"Mesh and leather, which can be woven, are beneficial materials for keeping feet cool and dry. Rubber is also commonly incorporated into summer sandals."
Need inspiration for the perfect summer sandals? Check out Pinker's picks — and reasoning — below.
Pinker says that Fitflop is his personal favourite brand for sandals. The Lulu Adjustable Leather Sandals are made from leather and have a back strap with a discreet elastic insert to help ensure your sandals stay in place with every move.
They also feature the brand's triple-density midsoles for pressure-diffusion, impact-reduction and all-day cushioning.
Crocs Getaway Platform Flip Flop sandals prioritize all-day comfort, with lightweight foam footbeds and a flexible upper that feel broken in from day one.
These sandals feature feel free technology, that provides a soft drop-in fit for enhanced comfort. It's worth noting that these sandals have a roomy fit so it's recommended to go down half a size.
The Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals are a classic for a reason. These slip-on sandals feature high-quality nubuck leather for a natural, rustic appearance.
They also feature the signature Birkenstock anatomically-shaped cork latex footbed with microfibre footbed lining and an adjustable pin-buckle strap.
Pinker says that the Lululemon Restfeel Women's Sandals are "well-cushioned" due to the footbed being wrapped in soft-touch fabric for elevated comfort. These sandals are designed for a casual look, and would be best for running errands — but not hiking a mountain.
The split-strap upper keeps your foot secure and offers a plush feel against your skin. The dual-density EVA foam provides comfort and support while the rubber outsole has a raised tread pattern to help enhance traction.
Kuru's LOMA sandals are a versatile choice for summer wear. The platform and ankle strap offer a modern look that can be dressed up or down.
The ankle strap isn't just stylish but also supportive, providing a secure fit, which is ideal for walking and other everyday activities. They also have built-in arch support to deliver pain relief without sacrificing style.
Sorel's Kinetic Impact Y-Strap High Women's Wedge Sandals blend fashion with all-day function. They feature foot-to-floor foam, making the sandal incredibly supportive and comfortable.
Pinker suggests these sandals because of their "enhanced outsole traction and supportive ankle straps." The sandals have a secure leather forefoot strap, adjustable hook, loop mesh midfoot strap with webbing detail and a leather strap with foam detail for comfort around the heel.
Birkenstock's Arizona Essentials EVA Sandals are made from a one-piece moulded EVA foam that is waterproof and ultra-lightweight, making it ideal for both wet and dry environments.
They have an anatomically-shaped footbed and adjustable pin-buckle straps to create a snug and supportive fit.
Keen's Leiki Open-Toe Sandals feature a women's-specific fit to support your foot shape. These open-toe sandals have an adjustable in-step strap with Achilles cushion for a secure fit.
The high-rebound foam cushioning enhances comfort and movement, and the shock-absorbing foam insole has arch support — while the rubber soles make for great traction on wet surfaces.
These under-$50 sandals feature an elastic strap for a secure and comfortable fit. They also feature a padded faux leather footbed that supports your feet and lightweight outsole with lugs that provide grip and stable footing on various surfaces.
The Adidas Comfort Slides are a great option if you're looking to slip-on your shoes and head out the door. They feature a contoured footbed for extra comfort and a regular fit.
Merrell's Speed Fusion Sport RMX sandals have a modern outsole with straps, marrying a contemporary look with a sporty style.
They have FloatMax Foam integrated insole and midsole that offer a soft underfoot experience, as well as a hook and loop closure system for quick adjustability.
The UGG Goldenstar Sandals feature adjustable straps at the ankle and vamp with secure hook-and-loop closures for easy customization. They include a supportive Sugarcane EVA midsole and recycled polyester lining, making them comfortable and planet-friendly.
This sandals also have a peppermint-based anti-odour sockliner treatment — stinky feet, be gone!
These sneaker sandals from Keen have a fit that follows the contours of your foot. They also uses a recycled plastic bungee cord and lace-lock toggle for a secure fit.
The foam midsole has lightweight cushioning, while the shock-absorbing foam insole ensures all-day comfort with the arch support. "This sneaker sandal has a well-designed footbed and it's composed of vegan materials so it's environmentally sound," Pinker says.
Fitory's slide sandals have a contoured cork footbed with soft suede lining for all-day support and comfort.
These sandals have a non-slip and lightweight EVA outsole and adjustable buckles that make it easy to adjust for the perfect fit.
These sandals feature a rubber outsole that gives you a solid balance of performance and durability while providing comfort and support for everyday activities.
They also features an EVA footbed, universal strapping system and adjustable hook-and-loop closure.
Under Armour's UA Ignite Select Slides are a great choice when you're just looking to slide on sandals and go. They're packed with memory foam to ensure you feel comfortable, while helping to eliminate pressure on your feet.
Kuru's LOMA Tila sandals offer a '90s platform design reimagined with modern support. They feature full-grain leather, elastic straps, a breathable cork footbed and patented heel technology for comfort.
These sandals also feature a built-in orthotic footbed.
Kuru's CODA Muse sandals have the support of an athletic sneaker, but with the appearance of a stylish pair of Keen Elle Luxe Backstrap Sandals feature a high-traction rubber outsole, anti-odour technology that offers natural odour control, plus a fit that follows the contours of your foot for all-day comfort.
These sandals also have a foam midsole that adds extra comfort. "This sandal is well-designed and supportive with added cushion and shock absorption," Pinker says.
