19 Best Walking Sandals For Women, Reviewed By GLAMOUR

Published 9 hours ago• 6 minute read

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NEO-D-HYKER (XT) Water-Resistant Adjustable Walking Sandals

Ancient Greek Sandals Aristea Platform Leather Sandals

Midform Universal Sandal

We’re firm believers that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style — and that’s especially true when it comes to the best walking sandals for women. Contrary to popular belief, hiking sandals can be chic. Why else would all the fashion girlies be wearing them?

Emily Ratajkowski has been spotted a few times in Axel Arigato's Delta flip-flops, and if there’s one thing we know about EmRata, it’s that she can set a shoe trend. From her Puma Speedcat sneakers to the divisive part-dad trainer, part-ballet shoe Foundry Mews’ flats, if they’re on EmRata’s feet, we want them too.

Emily Ratajkowski.

Raymond Hall

Unsurprisingly, the Axel Arigato Deltas are pretty much impossible to get your hands on – or feet into – this season. But luckily for us there are loads of other options to go for. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a high-end pair of sandals like Ancient Greek Sandals' Aristea Platforms or want a high-street option like Skechers' Arch Fit Footsteps Day Dream Sandals, we’ve got you covered.

Birkenstock Arizona EVA Sandals

FP Movement X Teva Terra Fi 5 Sandals

Still not persuaded? Meghann Fahy recently proved these shoes aren’t just made for walking but will complement your off-duty looks too. She wore hers with a cute summer dress, summer jewellery and a suede handbag.

Meghann Fahy.

Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/ Getty Images

Of course there are walking boots and walking shoes too, but in the midst of summer when the thought alone of putting socks on is enough to make you feel sweaty and claustrophobic, walking sandals come in clutch.

So, what do we need to know when it comes to picking a pair? “Look for durability and avoid flexibility,” recommends Chanel, a board-certified podiatrist. “Any sandal with built-in arch support will be best for walking; sandals that can easily fold in half will prove problematic.” (Sorry, flimsy flip-flops — you’re best reserved for lounging on the beach). Although it might seem counterintuitive, you’re looking for “rigidity and firmness” throughout the bottom half of your footwear, Dr. Perkins says.

Because we’re just as obsessed with comfort as you are, our editors have tracked down the very best pairs (including plenty of walking sandals on Amazon) that actually hold up to hours of wear while ticking the two most important boxes: style and support. So if you're going on a night out or in the market for chic-but-practical options for travelling and trekking in, these are the absolute best sandals for walking, tested and reviewed by GLAMOUR editors worldwide.

I’ve been resisting Birks for decades, but when the colourful EVA versions of their signature sandals were released and I slipped my feet into them, I simply couldn’t ignore how comfortable they were. Beyond being truly squishy and shock-absorbing, they’re also light as air, which makes them perfect for popping into a suitcase if you’re travelling to a warm destination. They’re also waterproof. They’re my absolute favourite pool and beach companion, but they can endure walking long distances, and there’s no blistery break-in period. Although they don’t offer the same arch support as the leather version, I find these infinitely more dreamy, and they last. My husband also lives in his. — Brie Schwartz, Glamour US Commerce Director.

I wanted a pair of walking sandals that didn't look like walking sandals, if you catch my drift. A hard request, I know, but these Arizona EVA sandals from Birkenstock have genuinely ticked the box. They're fashionable enough to wear them around the city without anyone raising an eyebrow, but supportive and comfortable enough that I can last on my feet all day. They're also cloud-light, so taking them on holiday is going to be the absolute dream as it won't affect my 20kg luggage allowance. – Mayola Fernandes, GLAMOUR UK Commerce Writer.

15/19

I'm thrilled one of my favourite designer brands got in on the sporty sandal craze and are offering practical footwear that also looks totally on-trend. A cushioned insole and adjustable straps make these long walk-ready.

Despite the fact I don't actually own a lot of khaki in my wardrobe, these walking sandals actually go with everything. Even my normal non-walking gear. They're super easy to get on (love you, velcro straps), and I don't mind being seen wearing them thanks to the logo branding. Serious credentials. – Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR UK Senior Commerce Writer.

16/19

We've said it before and we'll say it again sometimes you can't be the M&S shoe department. Did you know they stock brands as well as their own ranges? Enter, Skechers. The Arch Fit® technology is designed to support with a highly cushioned insole. They look pretty sleek, too.

Chacos are built to withstand the wilderness, thanks to their heavy rubber soles, durable webbing, and snug heel straps. But while they excel as sporty hiking sandals, they aren’t just great for long days on the trail; I love their utilitarian charm for walking around New York, too. Along with Keens and Merrels, they’re the epitome of dorky-cute. (And don’t worry — they won’t make you look too much like a hippy unless you really lean into the tie-dye). — Jake Smith, Glamour US Commerce Editor.

18/19

Supportive sandals need not be boring — just look at these stompers from Melissa. If you’re headed to a music festival this season, you can trust this pair to cradle your feet and keep you upright all day long. They’re clunky-looking but deceptively lightweight. Oh, and like all of the brand’s shoes, they even smell like bubblegum.

Melissa’s chunky plastic sandals immediately take me back to my childhood-favourite jelly shoes, but the playful yet practical design makes them feel sleek enough to wear to work. Having worn these consistently for three summers now, I can safely say they are comfortable enough and sturdy enough for long summer walks. And if that wasn’t enough, Melissa’s shoes are vegan and recyclable, and the company has a strong commitment to eco-friendly production. —Anastasia Sanger, Glamour US Social Video Producer/Editor.

19/19

To be totally honest, you should wear something a lot more supportive than a pair of flip flops if you intend to walk a few miles this summer/on holiday. However, sometimes life comes at you fast and one minute you're sunbathing on the beach and the next you're on a 3-hour hike. In those instances, trust in Archies. They're designed with arch support, comfort and fashion in mind, so you'll look on-trend but your feet won't be paying the price thanks to the contoured footbed.