I got the 411 on what to look out for when sandal shopping
Best Podiatrist-Approved Flip-Flops at Amazon
- 50% Off: Clarks Breeze Coral Flip-Flops, $27 with coupon (orig. $60)
- “Comfortable Arch Support”: Vionic Evie Knit Sandals, $87 (orig. $125)
- Trending Style: Teva W Universal Sport Sandals, $45 with coupon (orig. $55)
- Birkenstock-Compared: Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed Sandals, $35 (orig. $50)
- Sleek Design: Vionic Aloe Flip-Flops, $80
- Great Heel Shock Absorption: Aetrex Maui Orthopedic Flip-Flops, $60
- Lowest Price: Clarks Breeze Piper Slide Sandal, $28 (orig. $34)
- Quick-Dry Fabric: Teva Voya Flip-Flops, $31 (orig. $45)
- Super Lightweight: Clarks Breeze Cloudstepper Flip-Flops, $33 (orig. $55)
If you’re like me and are tired of wearing unsupportive, pain-inducing flip-flops, you’ll want to keep reading.
I’ve spent the last few summers searching for the most comfortable flip-flops and sandals, but haven’t had a lot of luck — which is why I decided to call in the expertise of podiatrist Dr. Samantha Landau. I asked Dr. Landau to help me find styles that would specifically support my flat, ache-prone feet, and so many of her picks are super cute to wear for beach days, running errands, and brunch dates.
She told me a few of her favorite brands to shop include Vionic, Clarks, Tevas, and Aetrex because of their supportive designs. She also zeroed in on specific things I should look for when flip-flop shopping like “contoured footbeds” and “thick, wide, and adjustable straps.” And luckily, most of her favorite styles are on sale at Amazon from just $28.
Related: These 12 Cute Lounge Sets on Amazon Are the Ultimate One-and-Done Summer Outfit Hack — All on Sale from $15
Clarks Breeze Coral Flip-Flops, $27 with coupon
$60 $27 at Amazon
Dr. Landau told me that although she usually wears slide-on sandals instead of thong flip-flops, she makes exceptions if they meet her criteria (read: supportive footbed, great heel shock absorption, and wide straps). This design from Clarks is a winner for her because of the contoured footbed that follows the natural outline of your foot. She said this offers “support and structure” and ultimately helps prevent foot pain throughout the day. So whether you’re headed out for a pool day or running errands, this pair is sure to keep your feet happy.
NEED TO KNOW
Dr. Landau noted that thicker straps are a great design feature to look for if you’re prone to swollen feet, since they won’t dig into the tops of your feet as much as thin thong straps.
Vionic Evie Knit Sandals
$125 $82 at Amazon
Dr. Landau told me she prefers her patients wear sandals over flip-flops during the summer because they’re “less flimsy,” which is why she recommended this style from Vionic. She loves these sandals specifically because they have a “wider dorsal strap, which causes less irritation overall” to the tops of the feet and the toes, and they have “comfortable arch support.”
Additionally, they have a deep heel cup that provides more stability and support when walking through uneven terrain like sand. You can shop the sandals in wide and narrow sizes, as well as nine cute colors and patterns (most of which are on sale!).
Related: Jennifer Garner’s Elegant Ballet Flats Are the Comfortable Summer Shoe Trend Celebrities Keep Wearing
Teva W Universal Sport Sandals, $45 with coupon
$55 $45 at Amazon
If you’re looking for a waterproof, all-terrain sandal, Tevas are for you. Tevas are super popular with outdoorsy folks due to their arch-support rubber footbed and secure, adjustable straps across the ankles and toes (which Dr. Landau loves).
She isn’t the only one who recommends them: One shopper with flat feet raved that these “fit like a dream” and “offer amazing arch support.” They also called the walkability “off the charts.” I’m definitely snapping these up for my vacation in July to wear with a bathing suit on beach days and a matching set on shopping and sightseeing days.
Keep scrolling for more of Dr. Landau’s comfy flip-flop and sandal picks for summer, including a pair that shoppers say looks and feels just like Birkenstocks, and other supportive Clarks styles.
Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed Sandals
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Vionic Aloe Flip-Flops $80 at Amazon |
Aetrex Maui Orthopedic Flip-Flops $60 at Amazon |
Clarks Breeze Piper Slide Sandal
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Teva Voya Flip-Flops
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Clarks Breeze Cloudstepper Flip-Flops
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