March 13, 2025
The 7 Best Sandals for Walking Through Life in Style
Endlessly wearable, stylish and supportive, the most comfortable walking sandals are the ones that feel great and work for your everyday life, too. The best sandals for walking give you cushion and stability without looking outdated or stocky, so you can wear them for everything from morning strolls to sightseeing adventures.
There are a lot of factors to think about before picking the right pair, including arch support, fit, and materials — but here at TOMS, we make it easy. No matter what your day has in store, our guide has the right pair for you. Whether you’re headed out on the vacation of a lifetime, spending a day running errands or if you’re just looking for a great day-to-day sandal that feels good from the first step to the last, this list has got you covered. Let’s get into it!
1. Espadrille Sandals
Espadrille sandals bring easygoing comfort with their signature rope sole, featuring an open design that’s perfect for warm weather. They’re lightweight, breathable and designed to keep up with busy days without weighing you down. The best part? They work for travel, everyday wear and casual outings that call for something a little more put-together.
Specs
- Foam insole for all-day comfort
- Rope-wrapped midsole for a classic espadrille look
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
- Flexible outsole for natural movement
Cost
Starting at $50.
Who They’re For
Anyone who wants a lightweight sandal that feels as good as it looks. Ideal for travelers, commuters and those who love an effortless, go-with-anything shoe.
Benefits
- Soft footbed that offers comfort without stiffness
- Open design keeps feet cool
- Lightweight build makes them easy to pack and wear all day
Styling Tips
Espadrille sandals pair well with just about anything! Throw them on with linen pants and a relaxed tee for a casual fit, or wear them with a soft dress for something a little dressier. Read our style guide to learn how to wear espadrilles.
2. Wedge Sandals
Wedge sandals are the kind of warm-weather shoe that never goes out of style. They add a little height without the discomfort of traditional heels, which means you get a stable, supportive lift that works for all-day wear. Wedges are one of the most comfortable walking sandals if you need to dress up but still feel good for long stretches on your feet.
Specs
- Custom CloudBound™ foam soles for all-day comfort
- Wedge heel for a subtle lift
- Adjustable straps for a customized fit
- Sturdy outsole for better traction
Cost
Starting at $50.
Who They’re For
Anyone who wants a little extra height without sacrificing stability. Great for travel days, casual dressers and anyone who loves a sandal that transitions from day to night.
Benefits
- Provides height without the discomfort of heels
- Supportive sole makes them easier to walk in
- Works for casual and dressier outfits
Styling Tips
Wedges go with everything from sundresses to wide-leg pants. Pair them with flowy skirts for a classic summer look or wear them with jeans and a fitted top for something more put-together during spring or fall.
3. Heeled Sandals
Yes, you read that right — heels can be great for walking! Combining the comfort of rope sandals with the sophistication of heels, heeled sandals are the perfect travel sandals if you like a little extra height but don’t want to deal with wobbly walking. They look great with everything from jeans to dresses, which means you can dress them up or down depending on the occasion. A sturdy heel and cushioned footbed make them more wearable than regular heels, while secure straps keep them in place so you can move comfortably.
Specs
- Stacked or platform heel for stability
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
- Textured outsole for traction
Cost
Starting at $60.
Who They’re For
Heel lovers who also value all-day comfort. Perfect for taking them with you on a trip, going to an event and those who want a structured sandal that’s still comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Benefits
- Provides height without putting pressure on the feet
- More stable than traditional heels
- Works for both laid-back and polished outfits
Styling Tips
Heeled sandals work well with wide-leg trousers, jumpsuits or midi skirts. For something a little more carefree and effortless, pair them with cuffed jeans and a lightweight blouse.
4. Slingback Sandals
The best sandals for walking long distances are those that give you reliable arch support and have comfortable straps to prevent chafing and slipping — and slingback sandals tick all of those boxes. The back strap keeps them secure so your foot stays in place with every step, while foam footbeds absorb impact and give you the support you need for wearing them all day long.
Specs
- Supportive footbed for arch comfort
- Adjustable slingback strap for a secure fit
- Lightweight and flexible sole for easy movement
- Soft materials to minimize rubbing
Cost
Starting at $50.
Who They’re For
Perfect for anyone who needs a sandal that stays put and feels good for hours. Ideal for anyone who’s on their feet a lot, commuters and those who want a more structured alternative to flip-flops or slides.
Benefits
- Keeps your foot secure without restricting movement
- Reduces strain on arches with built-in support
- Works for long walks, travel and everyday wear
Styling Tips
Slingbacks add a bit more structure than a slip-on sandal, so you can wear them with anything from linen shorts and a button-up, to wide-leg pants or even a maxi dress.
5. Mules
If backstraps aren’t your thing, a tried and true pair of mules is the perfect alternative as cute and comfortable sandals for walking. Easy to slip on and off, they offer the convenience of a slide with more structure and support. A well-designed mule stays in place as you walk, with a contoured footbed that keeps your feet comfortable and secure all day long.
Specs
- Slip-on design for easy wear
- Supportive footbed for all-day comfort
- Durable outsole for better traction
- Breathable materials to keep feet cool
Cost
Starting at $50.
Who They’re For
Anyone who wants a sandal that’s easy to wear but still supportive. Great for those who prefer open-backed shoes without sacrificing stability.
Benefits
- No straps or buckles to adjust
- More structured than flip-flops or slides
- Comfortable enough for all-day wear
Styling Tips
Mules go beautifully with relaxed outfits like linen pants and breezy tops but can also work with dressier looks. Try them with cropped jeans and a lightweight sweater for an easy transitional outfit or wear them with a midi dress for something simple and put together.
6. Sporty Sandals
Sporty sandals are great for when you want the comfort of a sneaker but the breathability of an open-toe shoe, making them one of the best travel sandals for sightseeing or walking tours. Designed for movement, they provide cushioned support, shock absorption and secure straps that keep your feet in place without feeling restrictive. Plus, unlike basic slides or flip-flops, sporty sandals are made for extended wear, with grippy outsoles that give you traction, a cushioned footbed that absorbs impact, and adjustable straps to make sure everything fits just right.
Specs
- Custom foam footbed for shock absorption
- Adjustable, comfortable straps for a locked-in fit
- Durable outsole with grip for better traction
- Lightweight and breathable design
Cost
Starting at $50.
Who They’re For
Ideal for anyone who needs a comfortable sandal that can keep up with an active lifestyle.
Benefits
- Designed for all-day comfort
- Secure fit that moves with you
- More support than traditional sandals
Styling Tips
Sporty sandals work best with relaxed, functional outfits, like joggers and a tank, denim shorts and a graphic tee or lightweight hiking pants or activewear.
7. Slide Sandals
One of the most comfortable sandals for easy-going days, slides are easy to wear, lightweight and perfect for poolside lounging, quick errands or summer BBQs. With options ranging from sporty to sophisticated, these stylish sandals can be as casual or as put-together as you need them to be.
Specs
- Slip-on design for convenience
- Cushioned footbed
- Lightweight and flexible sole
- Water-friendly options available
Cost
Starting at $60.
Who They’re For
Perfect for those who want a no-fuss sandal that still feels good on the feet. Great for beach days, travel and quick trips to the store.
Benefits
- Easy to slip on and off
- Comfortable enough for all-day wear
- Works for casual outfits and relaxed settings
Styling Tips
Wear them with swimwear and a light cover-up for the beach or the pool, or pair them with joggers and a tank for a casual streetwear look. For something more put together, try them with linen pants and a matching button-up.
Tips for Choosing the Best Walking Sandals
If you’re searching for the best sandals for walking, it’s important to keep in mind that a few details can make or break how they feel after a full day on your feet. Comfort comes first, but things like support, fit and materials all play a role in making sure your sandals don’t leave you sore or uncomfortable. The right pair should move with you, stay secure and keep every step feeling good.
Here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Arch support makes all the difference: A flat sandal won’t cut it if you’re walking for hours. Look for something that supports your foot’s natural shape.
- Cushioning matters more than you think: A soft, shock-absorbing footbed takes the pressure off your feet and keeps them from feeling tired too soon.
- Straps should hold, not rub: Secure straps hold your foot in place, but they should be soft enough to prevent chafing. Adjustable ones are even better!
- Traction isn’t just for sneakers: A sturdy sole with a grip keeps you steady, no matter where you’re walking.
- Lighter is usually better: Heavy sandals can drag your feet down, so flexible, breathable materials help keep things comfortable.
- Quality beats everything: A well-made sandal holds up over time, so you’re not replacing them after a few wears.
Last but not least, don’t forget to pick a pair that makes you happy. While you should always prioritize comfort, there are lots of stylish walking sandals out there that can help you express your personal flair and seize the day with confidence.
Wear TOMS. Wear Good.
The best sandals for walking should feel just as good at the end of the day as they do at the start. And that’s exactly what you get with TOMS — styles designed for comfort, support and all-day wear without sacrificing the latest styles.
When you buy from TOMS, you’re not just investing in better shoes — you’re supporting something bigger. One-third of profits go toward grassroots organizations working to create real change in communities, from mental health support to local development projects. Learn more about our impact.
Find your next favorite pair and step into comfortable sandals that give back. Shop our women’s sandal collection today!