Have you been feeling like your sandals are not cushioning your feet? Traditionally, it’s been hard to find shoes that are both supportive and stylish. The good news? Brands are stepping up and making shoes that are now comfortable and attractive. It’s a great reason to add some shoes with arch support into your summer wardrobe.
As we get older, the natural fat pad that cushions the bottom of our feet thins out, and arches can gradually flatten. “With this, our ability to balance changes, so a summer shoe that offers real arch support, a secure fit and a slip-resistant sole isn't just about comfort, it's about staying steady and active,” says Dr. Chandana Halaharvi, a double board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and owner of Thrive Foot & Ankle in Houston, Texas. When picking a shoe, she says to prioritize footwear with real arch support, a secure, adjustable strap and a slip-resistant outsole and firm heel counter.
Read on for 10 summer shoes that will keep your feet feeling cute and comfy all summer long.
The name of this shoe says it all: “Arch Pro.” These stylish shoes come in patterns like Denim Stripe, Cream Ivory Black and Navy Stripe. They feature enhanced arch support and a dual-density midsole, which makes them a great choice for long walks. The colors are fun, and the support makes them optimal for sightseeing on a vacation, a stroll around the block or to dinner with the girls. $109, vivaia.com
A classic, polished everyday sandal with Clarks' cushioned, contoured footbed and adjustable straps. “It's a reliable, comfortable choice for someone who wants something that looks put-together for lunch or shopping but still supports the foot for hours,” says Halaharvi. This can be worn with everything from slacks to dresses to shorts. And the colors are so versatile. How fun is the red! $47.30, amazon.com
If you’re looking for a comfy thong-style sandal, this is it. These sandals by Revitalign are made with an orthopedic grade footbed that’s approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), making them a great option for those with Plantar Fasciitis, knee pain or back pain. The EVA footbed conforms to the feet with wear. And instead of boring old flip flops, these come in metallic finishes that add a stylish touch. $69.95, amazon.com
If you plan to do a lot of walking in your sandals, this shoe may be for you. “This is my top recommendation for arch support in a sandal,” says Halaharvi. It has orthotic-grade support built right into the footbed and carries the APMA Seal of Acceptance. “It's wonderful for everyday wear around the house, the garden or the pool, and it's a great option for anyone who normally wears an orthotic but wants a sandal that doesn't feel like a compromise,” she says. It comes in versatile finishes, like Silver Leather. $150, amazon.com
These stylish sandals are marketed as being a Clinician’s Choice shoe. They are constructed with a signature arch support strategically placed to help align your body. The Jillians have fully adjustable straps that help relieve bunion discomfort and a padded heel for extra comfort. Whether you opt for the Leopard print or Sage color, their braided style accents any outfit. $139.95, aetrex.com
This premium open back leather slide sandal has three adjustable hook-and-loop straps for optimal fit. The microfiber footbed helps to keep feet cool on hot summer days and its flexible outsoles make walking extra comfortable. This genuine leather sandal comes in pewter, black and multi-color options, making it dressy and cozy. $109.95, amazon.com
These dressy sandals combine NAOT’s signature footbed with a wedge sandal profile and a natural cork and latex that mirror the shape of the foot. Their sleek, minimalist design makes them classy for a night out on the town but comfortable enough for all day walking. They’re APMA-certified as being designed to promote healthy foot alignment and they come in many colors, like the classic black and white combo. $104.84, amazon.com
“A fantastic value pick sandal as it is lightweight, cushioned and built around a podiatrist-designed arch-support footbed, with adjustable straps that make them easy to slip on and adjust for swelling,” says Halaharvi. These sandals are stylish enough for errands and comfortable enough to wear all day. They come in white, black, mocha and navy, which helps them pair nicely with any outfit. $55, amazon.com
Men can have stylish sandals that are more comfortable on their feet as well. These sleek leather slides come in black, coffee and dark moss and are outfitted with a foam footbed and rubber outsole for all day comfort. Their breathable mesh lining helps keep feet cool, while the leather gives them some class. $89.95, zappos.com
Birkenstocks are back in style! The men’s Arizona is a classic sandal that features a natural leather insole and cork footbed that provides cushioning and molds to your foot with wear. Available in versatile colors like black, brown and white, these sandals are a timeless summer staple that pair just as easily with shorts as they do with casual pants. $117.95, birkenstock.com
The above content is shared for educational and informational purposes only. References to any products or services, or links to any third-party websites, do not constitute an endorsement, sponsorship, or recommendation of such products, services, or third parties by Brookdale or its affiliates.