✔️ Look for ample cushioning. “For cushioning, look for sandals with contoured footbeds and shock-absorbing midsoles which will aid in reducing shock during walks and while standing on hard surfaces,” advises Sharkey. “Memory foam or EVA in the footbed are excellent for cushioning.” Andersen also highly recommends memory foam in sandals. “If this was a perfect world, every shoe would have memory foam lining with arch support in it,” she says. “Every shoe would feel that good.”
✔️ Check for good arch support. Arch support is crucial in a good walking sandal, according to our podiatrists. “Built-in arch support and a deep heel cup will help to maintain foot alignment while supporting the arch. This works to give your foot stability with activity,” explains Sharkey. “A bonus is a removable arch support which will allow you to slide your orthotics or additional arch support in if needed,” adds Parthasarathy.
✔️ Find a good fit. Make sure you are wearing the proper size—your foot should not fall over the sides of the sandal and there should be room between the end of your toes and the end of the sandal. Sandals with adjustable straps are great for ensuring a secure, proper fit—and an adjustable ankle strap in particular “will give you some stabilization and reduce the chance of sprained ankles,” notes Parthasarathy. Additionally, you may want to check if the sandal comes in wide or narrow size options. “The width of the sandal is also important to accommodate your foot and any ailments such as bunions, neuromas, and hammertoes,” Parthasarathy says.
✔️ Consider the type of activity. It’s important to take into consideration the type of activity you will be doing while wearing the sandals. “Outdoor adventure sandals need to have an ankle strap for stability, arch support for walking, and quick-drying materials like EVA if they get wet,” notes Parthasarathy. You’ll also want to look for sandals with a durable outsole and good tread for traction on a variety of surfaces.
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