It’s officially sandals season and if you are heading off to a hot destination this summer, you might want to invest in a pair of sandals you can walk for miles without getting blisters. Comfort is key when choosing any footwear and whether you’re wearing flip flops, clogs or sliders, finding a pair with anatomically shaped inner soles or cushion foam layers would reduce the chance of foot ache and muscle fatigue.
We have found some ergonomically designed sandals perfect for keeping your feet cool yet stylish enough to match different outfits. The first one to name is the German-made Birkenstock sandals.
Famous for the supportive ‘footbed’ the Arizona style is one that’s been crowned a stylish “dad sandal”. If you have not heard of the term before think chunky soles, thick straps with buckles and velcro.
The £80 pair is popular among models and influencers but Birkenstock says its “legendary” footbed design helps your feet feel as comfortable as possible for hours. The deep moulding in the heel area supports the foot tissue and holds the heel bone firmly in its natural position.
The unique arch support gives the foot the stability it needs when it takes a step. The unisex style is made for people of all ages and you can pick the colour and material of your choice – it matches well with jeans, shorts and even midi skirts and sundresses.
But if “dad shoes” are not your cup of tea it’s worth looking for a style with cushion foam soles. The Gabi sandals from Heavenly Feet are part of the “Litesoles” collection weighing roughly 200 grams a pair.
Currently reduced from £44.95 to £35.05, the Gabi features shimmering upper straps and a fixed buckle-fastening ankle strap and is available in black, gold, orange or silver. The weight of these sandals makes them ideal for travelling and packing away in suitcases when you’ve got to stick to a weight limit.
Looking for a pair of summer shoes with added height? Marks and Spencer has some customer-approved wedges that are both comfortable and stylish to elevate your outfit.
The M&S Collection Closed Toe Ankle Strap Wedge Espadrilles, £55, has given shoppers a boost in confidence when they put on the style loved by the likes of Princess Kate and Duchess Sophie. With a heel height of 3.7 inches, the wedges are secured with a buckle fastening at the ankle and finished with antibacterial Freshfeet technology to keep your feet afresh.
“They are high but I am able to walk safely in them and feel secure. They look very stylish and are well made!” a shopper said and another shared: “Wanted a summer shoe for work and these are perfect! Great with a floral dress or wide trouser…true to size.
“Really comfortable, definitely recommend!” However, one person did note that the ‘leather is a bit thin’ before praising the value of the shoes.
For a casual walk in the city, Blowfish Malibu’s Camden sandals are comfortable to wear with “no digging in”. The Camden sandals feature a cushioned footbed that moulds to provide all-day comfort. The £49 pair have criss-cross leather straps and an adjustable ankle strap for a secure fit. Some sizes are now in low stock – especially smaller sizes.
One said the shoes are a “perfect fit”, adding: “Love Blowfish. The sandals are so comfy and last forever. Comfy all day wear.” While another added: “Nice looking sandals, but they might need a bit of break-in, particularly the leather between the toes.”