Get Rid of Your Rubber Flip-flops — These Are the Comfy Walking Sandals You Need Instead

This rubber-soled sandal has a leather upper. The footbed is anatomically molded for comfort and support, whether you’re just taking them down to the pool or walking the city in them for hours. The ankle strap provides an adjustable fit and the toe loop adds even more stability for your foot. For this pair, size up if you’re normally a half size.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $90

You almost can’t talk about comfortable sandals without Birkenstock coming up. The brand’s website claims it invented the contoured footbed in the 1930s — and it still stands behind its anatomically designed, suede-topped footbeds with deep, cradling heel cups, four posture-enhancing arches, and a raised toe bar. The buckles on both straps are adjustable so you can get a secure fit. One enthusiastic reviewer who has worn the style to Disney World and National Parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon said, “Nothing ever rubs, there is no break-in required… I can't stand a thong between my first and second toe, but with these, you can't even feel it. I hope they never get rid of this style.”

To buy: zappos.com, $100

This brand new style from Cole Haan — which designs every shoe they make with a strong commitment to comfort — has a mini wedge heel for more support and the elastic strap fits snugly, but won't take you forever to slip back on at airport security. As for that cloudfeel promise? They actually cored out the sole and filled it with super-cushioned foam to make you feel like you’re taking each step on top of a cloud.

To buy: colehaan.com, $90

The first pair of travel shoes I ever purchased for myself was made by Born. After years of wear, the cushioned leather footbed has molded to my feet — and the patina looks great, too. The Trang has recently become one of the brand's best-selling style and it's no wonder: the footbed is packed with cushion and the leather is super soft and supple.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $85

Easy Spirit's just-launched sister brand, Evolve, has made a mash-up of the sneaker and wedge heel sandal with this pick. The adjustable strap allows you to get the fit around the ankle just right. 

To buy: nordstrom.com, $89

Though Toms is more widely known for its canvas alpargata-style flats, reviewers are raving about how comfortable and versatile (and compliment-worthy) this heeled sandal from the brand is. The upper comes in leather and suede and the three-inch heel is thick enough to ensure a steady step. Plus, there are eight colorways in case you want a pair to coordinate with every possible outfit this summer.

To buy: zappos.com, from $75

It’s practically a fact in the outdoor enthusiast community that Chaco makes some of the most comfortable hiking sandals available and the Z/Cloud series is designed specifically for travelers. The adjustable strap system will keep your foot securely fastened to the podiatrist-certified footbed, which has cushioning that measures up to the shoe’s name.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $110

Like Dr. Sutera mentioned, Vionic works with podiatrists throughout its shoe development process, but its collections rarely look orthopedic. This platform style packs in a ton of comfort features like deep heel cups, contoured footbeds, and an adjustable ankle strap. Plus, the rubber sawtooth outsole will give you extra grip. 

To buy: vionicshoes.com, $100

This ankle-strap sandal from Kenneth Cole's collection of high-end comfort shoes has a pillow-like amount of cushion in the sole, and you can see the built-in arch support just from the photo. It comes in a black and a cognac leather.

To buy: zappos.com, $219

Espadrille wedges are a quintessential summer shoe, but many options on the market are less than supportive. The thick, criss-crossing straps on this Eileen Fisher pair offer a secure fit and, as Dr. Sutera mentioned, a wedge is best for distributing your body weight when you’re standing. The deep blue will pair perfectly with all washes of denim and breezy white linens, but there are six more colorways if you’re not a navy fan.

To buy: nordstrom.com, from $198

If your heart is set on a more fashion-forward slide, you don’t have to sacrifice support. Beek has figured out a way to mold a lifted arch into its all-leather sandals without the bulky look that generally comes with it. Crafted by artisans in Mexico, their shoes are made to last. We’re into the Finch silhouette because the upper strap placement is not only a unique style but one that's designed to hold your foot firmly in place when walking. 

To buy: nordstrom.com, $280

The designers at Olukai made it their mission to construct a flip-flop that's actually comfortable to wear and walk around in all day. There's an 8 mm molded arch for anatomical support.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $85

Plaka Sandals — a brand born on a vacation to the Greek Isles — makes several unique sandal styles that are handcrafted with stretch-to-fit, braided rope uppers and a rubber sole that thickens beneath the heel. They’re also water-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about ruining them at the beach, and they come in 13 colors.

To buy: amazon.com, $30

Sorel is known for its high-quality winter boots, but that doesn't mean they can't knock a comfortable sandal out of the park, too. The Ellas are proof; they're a top seller for the Canadian brand. The soft leather and elastic straps will hug your feet, keeping them secure, while the molded rubber soles come through on both traction and support.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $60 (originally $80)