The 12 best sandals for women in 2024

Sizes: 4 to 15 | Colors: 40 options | Materials: Foam, cork, suede, rubber

These classic Birkenstock sandals are so popular that four of our staff members sang their praises (myself included). And we're not the only ones who are fans: Dr. Melissa Lockwood, DPM, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot & Ankle Associates, gives Birkenstocks the thumbs-up for their support, as do thousands of shoppers. For decades, Birkenstock Arizonas have had a reputation as one of the most comfortable sandals around.

The classic slides boast a deep heel cup that keeps the natural padding of your foot in place and helps disperse your body weight evenly. The suede-lined, supportive footbed molds to your feet over the break-in period for added comfort, while the raised toe bed gives you grip so your feet aren't sliding around.

Our Executive Editor, Nicole Sforza, wears them so often, she says, that these iconic shoes have "almost become a part of me! They mold to your foot, so when you slip in your dogs, it's like they're coming 'home.'" Even better, there are two adjustable straps, so you can find a custom supportive fit. 

Commerce Director Jeanine Edwards says they are so comfy, stylish and supportive that she wears them in everyday life and on European vacations that are full of walking. "I LIVE in these sandals because they're so comfortable," she raves. "Another bonus? They are super durable. I've had my current pair for over five years now and they still look and feel amazing."

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: Four options | Materials: Closed cell foam

You may think flip-flops won’t be good for your feet, but this pair from Oofos has an APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health and being of exceptional quality. They feature the brand’s signature Oofoam technology, which helps to cushion your feet while you walk and absorb 37% more impact than regular footwear foam.

These sandals have a deep heel cup that offers a cradling style of support that keeps your feet in a posture-friendly alignment — a feature that is particularly beneficial for people with ailments like plantar fasciitis. The geometry of the footbed also gives added support to arches, which helps reduce pronation and supports ankle health.

"These are my latest favorite," Dr. Lockwood tells us. "They last a long time and have a great footbed."

Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS, agrees, adding, "They offer great shock absorption and cushioning [with] great arch support." 

One of the hundreds of five-star reviewers writes, "I have plantar fasciitis and thought my flip-flop days were over. [I] was so happy that these were comfortable and that I could wear them for extended periods."

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: Two options | Materials: Natural cork, microfiber

Every pair of shoes from Vionic has been specially designed by a team of podiatrists to provide you with the support and comfort you need for a full day on your feet. Dr. Hillary Brenner, DPM, of NYC Private Medical, is a big fan of the brand because they are "the most supportive out of a variety of sandals and they have good arch support." 

This cute strappy sandal is one of Vionic's most popular styles, and it's easy to see why. Not only does the American Podiatric Medical Association award them a Seal of Acceptance, but the company also designs them to biomechanically hug your arches and support your feet in comfort.

The sandals have a built-in orthotic that is effective in helping to treat heel pain like plantar fasciitis, and its flexible EVA midsole absorbs shock and reduces stress on your feet, ankles and knees. Plus, shoppers love how versatile they are. "I wore the sandals out of the box walking 12,000+ steps a day and all over Old San Juan during a vacation without a single problem! They look great as well with both pants and skirts," wrote one.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 20 options | Materials: Polyester, rubber

I reach for these comfy sandals anytime I know I’m going to be walking a lot. I first bought the Teva Sport Sandals for a trip to Morocco, and they have since become my go-to sandals. Not only do they provide me with pain-free wear, but the sleek, minimalist design allows me to pair them with everything from cute dresses to flowy linen pants (though if I were going to a fancy dinner or event, I’d probably leave them at home).

The cute kicks feature polyester straps with Velcro, including a backstrap, that are super soft against the skin. They never dug in or gave me blisters, even when I was walking for 20,000+ steps a day sightseeing. The sandals are fully adjustable thanks to the hook-and-loop straps, so I could find my ideal fit and not worry about them slipping or sliding. They also have a contoured footbed for comfort, a durable rubber sole and are quick-drying, so I could wear them to the beach and pool without worrying about getting them wet.

I will mention that there are no half sizes. I'm normally an 8.5 but sized down based on the sizing chart and they fit great. 

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 11 options | Materials: Textile, rubber

These rugged summer sandals are so popular, they have earned themselves over 18,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It’s easy to see why these waterproof sandals are so in demand. Not only do they feature a metatomical footbed that offers ample arch support, but they also boast a molded EVA midsole that customers say is as comfortable as their favorite pair of running shoes. The cushioned sandals also have a closed-toe design to protect your feet from the elements, a bungee lace capture system to help you create a custom fit and a durable rubber outsole that provides excellent traction, making them a sturdy option for a day on the trails. 

Shoppers love the breathable mesh fabric straps that contour to their feet and the fact that the supportive sandals are machine-washable. "These are the best sandals I have ever bought anywhere. They can get wet and it's OK! They can go with slacks, jeans, dresses, hiking, to dinner, anywhere. And if you are a clutz like me you will NEVER stub your toe," raved one reviewer. 

What's more, according to the brand, the sandals are designed "using a specific foot form that is wider than the industry norm for improved fit," making them a great option for women with wide feet.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 11 options | Materials: Synthetic upper, PU insole

Our Senior Beauty Editor, Jennifer Romolini, is on her second pair of these wildly comfortable, super-affordable sandals from Amazon. 

"There's nothing particularly 'special' about the design, no bells or whistles, but they're well made and the slightly padded platform makes them more cushiony than flat leather sandals,” she says. 

These highly rated sandals (over 3,400 five-stars on Amazon) are easy to put on and take off — no zippers or buckles here — and they're mega-stretchy too, so they won't dig into the sides of your feet. And did we mention how stylish the budget-friendly kicks are? "I've had women stop me on the street to ask who makes these sandals! They are more classic stylish than trendy," says Romolini.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 5 options | Materials: Leather, polyurethane

We usually reach for slide sandals when we want something comfortable and no-nonsense. This smooth leather option from Madewell definitely fits that bill, while having an unexpectedly elevated style and structure.

"These stylish, yet simplistic sandals ... have some give along the sides and sufficient padding with every step. I bought them on a whim last season, and they've become my go-to sandal since," says Senior Commerce Writer Kristin Granero. The second strap has a buckle, so you can adjust them to fit properly, and — thanks to detailing like shiny buckles and smooth, premium leather uppers — you can easily dress them up or down.

While they are super comfortable and supportive for normal wear, Granero does note, "Since these don't have a backstrap, I wouldn't rely on them for bumpy inclines." She also mentions that, like all leather shoes, they can get a bit slippery when wet, so it's advised you keep them as dry as possible.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 33 options | Material: Rubber, synthetic leather

With more than 8,000 customer reviews and an impressive 4.6-star average rating, these Olukai flip-flops are one of the most popular pairs of sandals on Amazon. It’s easy to see why — along with a nonslip EVA insole that’s cushioned for added comfort, the popular flip-flops also feature a water-resistant upper strap and a durable rubber sole.

The footbed features a molded foot cup, making for a more sturdy and stabilizing sandal. "[A] heel cup allows for the heel to nestle in the shoe to avoid walking out of the shoe quite as easily," says Dr. Daughtry.

One happy shopper calls them "the best flip-flop the world has to offer," and adds, "Once I tried them I couldn't believe how comfortable they were. They conform to your actual feet to provide support and relief from foot pain."

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 40 options | Material: Rubber

Need a comfortable and durable pair of rubber slides to hit the pool this summer? Both our Senior Commerce Editor, Ellie Conley, and Commerce Editor, Janelle Randazza, recommend this pair from Freedom Moses. “The way they're designed sort of hugs your feet,” says Conley, adding that these shoes boast great arch support and decent traction. 

"They have micro-nubs all along the insole, so they always feel great and a bit massaging when you wear them," says Randazza. Both recommend these sandals for all-day wear, but they are best for urban walks, pool parties or beach days, rather than anything resembling a hiking trail.

There are 41 colors to choose from, so it should be easy to find a style (or two) that you love, and Conley raves they are super versatile too!

“These shoes are totally cute, like the rubber version of Birkenstocks. They come in so many colors, from neutral beige to bold patterns. I have a metallic pair that goes with everything,” she says. Even better, they don’t make any squeaky noises like other rubber sandals tend to.

Sizes: 6 to 11 | Colors: 4 options | Materials: Recycled polyester, rubber

If you’re in the market for a pair of sandals that are great for both outdoor adventures and everyday wear alike, look no further than the Teva Hydratrek sandals. 

Randazza has worn them around town, down multiple city blocks, and did a day of beachcombing on a full pebble beach, all with no complaints. 

“The arch support is one of the best parts about these sandals. I have pretty high arches, but I always feel fully supported and stable in these shoes,” she says. The sporty sandals also have adjustable straps and a contoured footbed that cradles your foot for added comfort and stability. The cute kicks are also water-friendly. Randazza says that, despite wearing them through crashing waves, they never squeaked, and the recycled polyester straps dried quickly.

Sizes: 4 to 13 | Colors: 21 options | Materials: Cork, leather, latex, memory foam

Love a little lift to your sandals but still want them to be comfortable? Randazza also recommends this pair from Naot. "The cork footbed is cushioning, shock-absorbing and supportive, even during long walks," she says. 

Along with being comfortable and stylish, the classic sandals have a rubber outsole that offers excellent traction and an adjustable ankle strap for added support. While the wedge adds a small boost, they are still under 1.5 inches, making them super easy to walk in. Plus, they're highly versatile. "These look good with jeans and a good pedicure, and look great with dresses and shorts," Randazza adds. And with 23 colors to choose from, it wouldn't surprise us if you wanted more than one style in your rotation.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 52 options | Materials: Textile, thermoplastic rubber

Clarks is one of the most beloved footwear brands, so it's no surprise that its Breeze Sea sandals are one of the most popular sandals on Amazon, with over 74,000 five-star ratings. And they're podiatrist-approved too. "Clarks offer a lot of support," says Dr. Polina Zaydenberg, who is a board-certified podiatrist. "Most of the [brand's] shoes have wider toe boxes, which helps prevent bunions, hammertoes and neuromas."

You can adjust the thong straps on the flip-flops to find a comfortable fit, and the insoles provide highly cushioned and contoured support for extra comfort.

One shopper calls them the "absolute BEST sandal," before adding, "There is no reason to NOT buy these flip-flops! Fantastic support and more comfortable than you can imagine. The adjustable feature is a bonus that you will truly appreciate if you are traveling."