Walking Shoes, Apparel, and Gear The 7 Best Walking Sandals for Women of 2023 The Teva Women's Sanborn Sandals keep your feet comfortable and stylish By Wendy Bumgardner Wendy Bumgardner Facebook Twitter Wendy Bumgardner is a freelance writer covering walking and other health and fitness topics and has competed in more than 1,000 walking events. Learn about our editorial process Updated on August 09, 2022 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI Reviewed by Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI Michele Stanten is a walking coach, certified group fitness instructor, and running coach. She is the author of Walk Off Weight and The Walking Solution. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT Fact checked by Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT Isabella Broggini is a health writer and editor, NASM-certified personal trainer, and fitness nutrition specialist. She is a commerce editor at Verywell. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Fit / Chloe Jeong During warm weather months, you need shoes that are breathable and comfortable as you’re commuting to work, running errands, or exploring new sights on vacation. A stylish pair of walking sandals that fit well, provide cushioning, and are breathable will support your feet on many outings. Walking sandals should fit comfortably without any pinching or rubbing. Look for sandals with straps that are padded or adjustable to get a good fit. Sandals should also have adequate cushioning to support and protect your feet, and be easy to get on and off. We researched walking sandals based on durability, support, and fit. A certified running coach from our Review Board also reviewed the claims in this article for accuracy surrounding walking sandals for women and the best ways to evaluate them. Here are the best walking sandals for women, so you can find a pair that's both practical and attractive. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Teva Women's W Sanborn Sandal at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Skechers Performance Women’s On the Go Brilliancy 600 at Amazon Jump to Review Best Waterproof: KEEN Women's Newport H2 Sandals at Amazon Jump to Review Best Style: Munro Pisces at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandal at Zappos Jump to Review Best for Wide Feet: SAS Nudu Sandals at Amazon Jump to Review Best Flip-Flops: OLUKAI Kulapa Kai Sandals at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected the Best Walking Sandals for Women What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Teva Women's W Sanborn Sandal 4.6 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Famousfootwear.com Pros Adjustable ankle strap Stylish design Cons No half sizes Some may prefer more traction Teva—a trusted footwear brand for many years—makes our top overall pick, the Sanborn sandal, in a chic black and two other colors. Whether you're pounding the pavement in the morning to walk your dog or taking in the sights on your next vacation, these sandals are comfortable, stylish, and will stand up to the weather. These sandals not only look good—they feel good too, with a 1-inch heel and a 0.75-inch platform that will support you through your travels. The Velcro ankle strap ensures a perfect fit and also makes it easy to get out the door in a jiffy. Plus, if it rains or you are taking your walk off-road, these sandals dry fast, leaving you with fresh feeling feet. Price at time of publish: $49 Key Specs:Materials: Polyester webbing upper, rubber sole, EVA-foam outsole | Closure: Velcro straps Best Budget Skechers Performance Women’s On the Go Brilliancy 600 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart Pros Memory foam cushioning Padded heel strap Cons Textured footbed may be uncomfortable for some Only some straps are adjustable This bargain sports sandal is well-loved for comfort. These sandals are lightweight and have responsive cushioning, both of which can help prevent foot fatigue. Skechers uses a proprietary memory-foam midsole to absorb impact, but it doesn’t stay compressed—instead, it rebounds so you get feedback to keep moving. These sandals are flexible in the right places, meaning your foot is both supported and able to move through a step naturally. For brisk walking and tackling hills, you will appreciate having a heel strap on the sandal so you won’t walk out of your sandals when going downhill, as can happen with flip-flops. The heel strap is padded to help prevent rubbing and blisters, and the ankle strap is adjustable. The heel height is less than an inch, which is the general guideline for walking heel height. The footbed is also textured, so your feet won’t slide around if they sweat, plus it provides a bit of airflow to prevent bacterial growth (which can lead to foot odor). These sandals are available in nine color combinations in both medium and wide sizes, so you are sure to find a pair that is sized and styled right for you. Price at time of publish: $55 Key Specs:Materials: Fabric upper, memory-foam midsole | Closure: Velcro straps Best Waterproof KEEN Women's Newport H2 Sandals 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Backcountry.com KEEN Women's Newport H2 Sandals Review Pros Washable Natural odor control technology Comfortable and cushioned Cons Expensive Not very breathable KEEN Women's Newport H2 Sandals Review These closed-toe sandals are ideal for walking almost anywhere, from sidewalks and pavement to uneven trails. The waterproof polyester webbing will keep your feet protected, although some walkers may prefer more breathability. Stumble across a muddy patch? Don't sweat it—you can throw these sandals right in the washing machine. Fans of long walks will appreciate that KEEN's Newport H2 Sandals are made with natural probiotics that help fight off unpleasant odors. They also come with adjustable laces, so you can customize the fit. And if your feet are prone to swelling after a few hours of walking, you can loosen the laces on the go for a more relaxed fit. Made of durable, lightweight materials, these sandals will last for many walks to come. Price at time of publish: $130 Key Specs:Materials: Nylon upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Elastic closure with cord locks Verywell Fit / Stephanie Vermillion Best Style Munro Pisces Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Marylandsquare.com Pros 15 colors and patterns Come in five different widths Will not stretch out over time Cons Straps aren't adjustable Expensive Look and feel good with these top-rated sandals. Available in 15 different colors and patterns, these sandals work just as well while sightseeing as they do out on a romantic date. The cork and latex footbed provides ample cushioning, no matter how you like to get your daily steps in. These go on as a slingback—and the leather upper won't stretch out over time. They also have a slight platform with a 1-inch heel, which gives some height to your overall look without compromising comfort. As far as fit goes, these sandals come in five different width options. Walkers with wide and narrow feet as well as high and low arches can all appreciate the style and support in each pair of Munro's Pisces. Price at time of publish: $150 Key Specs:Materials: Textile and leather upper, cork and latex footbed, EVA sole | Closure: Slingback The 12 Best Walking Sandals of 2023 Best for Plantar Fasciitis Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Leather Sandal Birkenstock View On Zappos View On Dick's View On Birkenstock.com Pros Large toe box Built-in arch support Good traction Cons Break-in period required No ankle strap While each person with plantar fasciitis may have different needs, the Birkenstock Arizona has been the go-to choice for decades. Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation of the fibrous cord on the bottom of your foot and heel. While you may be reducing your walking as you heal from it, you need sandals that won’t cause further irritation for when you do need to get around. The Birkenstock Arizona sandals provide the level of comfort you need with plantar fasciitis, because the footbed seems to even out pressure and the distribution of your weight. They also have a roomy toe box that contours to the toes to help keep your foot in the right position while walking. Plus, the sandals have built-in arch support, which is great if you are going to be standing or walking for a long period of time. The durable rubber sole provides good traction so you are less likely to slip on a variety of surfaces that come your way. The sandals come in regular or narrow widths, and the two buckle straps allow you to further adjust the fit. The synthetic upper has a leather-like finish and a soft backing. There are many colors available, from the classics to metallic stone. Price at time of publish: $135 Key Specs:Materials: Leather upper, cork sole | Closure: Slip-on, buckles to adjust straps What Our Editors Say "Yes, these Birkenstocks do require a brief break-in period. But once you're past that short phase (I have two pairs and it took about a week each with each one), the sole molds to your footbed and fits like a two-strap glove. They're easy to slip on and off, and only get more comfortable with time." — Ashleigh Morley, Commerce Editorial Director The 8 Best Walking Shoes for Travel of 2023 Best for Wide Feet SAS Nudu Sandals Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart Pros Come in five widths All straps are adjustable Cons Some may need more arch support If you have wide feet you know how difficult it is to find comfortable sandals that actually fit you. San Antonio Shoemakers' Nudu Sandals are well-cushioned designs and available in five different widths, so you can find a size that is just right. The Nudu sandal brings a high level of support and comfort to a sandal you can wear for a long day of walking with padded straps that prevent hot spots and blisters. There are also three adjustable straps, so you can get a tailored custom fit for your forefoot, ankle, and heel. This sandal flexes in the right place on the forefoot while also providing support and stability at the midfoot and heel. The 1-inch heel is low and shaped to help you roll through a step, while the suede footbed will help keep your feet dry and fresh after a long day. These sandals are available in a two-toned leather in classic colors that will go with all of your outfits for walking, shopping, or touring. Price at time of publish: $145 Key Specs:Materials: Leather upper, suede sole | Closure: Velcro straps, buckle The 10 Best Comfort Shoes for Walking and Running Best Flip-Flops OLUKAI Kulapa Kai Sandals Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Pros Water-resistant Plenty of arch support Cons No half sizes Not adjustable While podiatrists don't recommend flip-flops, there is a time and place for these—if you are running out the door or going on a beach vacation. If you are going to go the flip-flop route, this top-rated pair from OluKai has anatomical compression-molded midsole, which gives support to people with high arches. They are also water-resistant, so they can hold up at the beach. And, they have plenty of traction to prevent you from sliding around. The toe post is made of nylon for extra comfort (no blisters here). These sandals also come in 12 different colors and styles, so there's truly a pair for everyone. Lightweight but durable, OluKai's Kulapa Kai sandals are the ideal flip flop for your next beach adventure. Price at time of publish: $75 Key Specs:Materials: Textile, leather, or synthetic upper (depending on style), neoprene lining, rubber sole | Closure: Slip-on The 7 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Final Verdict Teva’s Women’s W Sanborn Sandal checks all the boxes for a walking shoe. Its hook and loop closure means easy on and off, while its 1-inch platform heel offers some lift. For a budget pick that ensures you’re getting both comfort and style, we recommend Skechers’ On-the-Go Brilliancy Sport Sandal for its memory foam midsole and textured footbed. How We Selected the Best Walking Sandals for Women The right pair of walking sandals should feel comfortable all day long and fit seamlessly into your wardrobe. After reviewing dozens of sandals from the most popular retailers, we selected our top pairs based on a list of specific criteria. First, we considered pairs of sandals from trusted brands in the footwear industry. We also selected sandals based on how they support your feet, while evaluating the potential for any blisters while wearing them. Then, we searched for shoes made from durable materials that are easy to clean. Finally, we considered how the sandals will fit, including whether they need a break-in period and whether the straps are adjustable. What to Look for in Walking Sandals for Women Style What's your personal style? For those who like a more rugged look, Birkenstocks might be the best choice. Or, if you'd prefer an option that can double as an upscale or professional shoe, a sleeker-looking sandal like the Munro Pisces might serve you better. Since your sandals are, after all, a fashion statement, you'll want to look for a pair that suits your signature style. Fit The ability to slip on a shoe with ease is a chief advantage of choosing sandals over sneakers—so it's important to find a pair that goes on easily and quickly. If possible, try on sandals before purchasing them so you know you're getting shoes that are comfortable, properly cushioned, and well-fitted. If adjustability matters to you (to be able to wear socks with your sandals, for example), look for shoes with buckles or velcro and shoes that can accommodate insoles for flat feet. Durability These aren't your once-a-year fancy shoes; walking sandals are made for everyday wear! Seek out a pair that can withstand all the hiking, trekking, and climbing you'll want to do in them. You can do this by selecting durable materials like leather or synthetics, as well as reading reviews to get a feel for user experience. Price Walking sandals can be surprisingly expensive. Before purchasing, consider your budget. If you feel a high-quality shoe is worth a heftier investment, you might choose a higher-end brand like Birkenstocks or SAS. On the other hand, if you're on a tighter budget, you may prefer a lower-priced brand like Sketchers. Frequently Asked Questions Should you wear socks with walking sandals? The question of whether to wear socks with your walking sandals is really a matter of personal preference. Most walking sandals are designed for wear without socks, but can be adjusted to accommodate them. If you intend to wear socks with your sandals, be sure to try them on that way before purchasing. How do you keep from getting blisters from walking sandals? Shoes that are too tight create friction, which eventually causes irritation on your skin. Therefore, getting sandals that fit properly is the first step (literally) toward ensuring you don't get blisters. You can also prevent blisters by keeping your feet dry, wearing socks, or applying a lubricant like petroleum jelly to troublesome areas. Fortunately, after you recover from blisters, your feet may naturally adjust to the added friction of a new pair of sandals. How long do walking sandals last? The lifespan of your walking sandals will, of course, depend on their quality and how much you use them. In general, a good rule of thumb for any fitness shoes is to replace them after about 500 miles. If you log multiple miles every day, you could reach this point in just a few months. Those who walk less could get a year or more out of a pair of walking sandals. How do you clean walking sandals? The best cleaning method for walking sandals will vary based on the material they're made of. For synthetic materials, you can submerge sandals in a tub of warm water with laundry detergent or baking soda, scrub them clean, and let them air dry. Leather sandals, on the other hand, should be gently wiped with a damp cloth. If you're concerned that your cleaning method may alter the look or feel of your shoes, try cleaning a small, less visible spot first. Why Trust Verywell Fit Wendy Bumgardner has walked over a thousand 10-kilometer events, over 100 half-marathons, seven marathons, two Breast Cancer 3-Day Walks, and one Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. She has a Leki Nordic Walking Instructor certificate and is an RRCA-certified marathon coach. 1 Source Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Ho K-Y, Blanchette MG, Powers CM. The influence of heel height on patellofemoral joint kinetics during walking. Gait Post. 2012;36(2):271-275. doi:10.1016/j.gaitpost.2012.03.008 See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit