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It’s here — sandal season. While your feet can’t wait to break free from closed-up shoes and boots, there are some key things to consider before you head out sandal shopping in order to find one that works best for your foot type.
Here are some guidelines when shopping for that perfect pair of comfortable sandals.
1. Measure your foot
It’s essential to have your feet measured at least once a year to make sure you’re wearing the correct size shoe since feet can change due to age or activity level. There’s nothing more unattractive than sandals that are too short for the foot, allowing toes to hang over the edge. Sandals that come up short can also pose safety issues since toes can scrape along the sidewalk.
Try: Keen Bali Strap Sandal
Keep toes protected with this colorful sandal featuring an adjustable strap and toe bumper that’s both fun and functional.
2. Look for underfoot cushioning and support
Since you won’t be wearing socks with sandals, it’s essential to have some extra cushioning underfoot to prevent calluses caused by pounding the pavement. There are plenty of options today, as more and more fashion brands are adding padded footbeds, while comfort-driven collections are going a step further by incorporating arch supports and deep heel cups.
Try: Naot Sabrina sandal
Naot’s Sabrina sandal includes an instep strap design with wide band upper and cork-and-latex contoured insole for underfoot support and cushioning
3. Stay away from strappy styles if you have bunions
Sandals with strappy uppers are a popular design but also one to stay away from if you suffer from issues such as bunions and hammertoes. It’s often difficult to position straps around these sensitive areas that typically require added protection. Consider closed-up styles with uppers that offer more coverage while still allowing toes to wiggle.
Try: Marc Fisher Pella Wedge Sandal
The crisscross vamp on this espadrille sandal offers plenty of foot coverage to fashionably hide foot issues such as bunions.
4. Look for flexible outsoles
What’s underfoot is just as important as a sandal’s upper design when it comes to comfort. Look for lightweight, flexible outsoles that provide an extra layer of cushioning between you and the sidewalk. Platforms and wedges are some fashionable options, rounded out with more practical rubber and EVA bottoms that provide some welcome bounce.
Try: Olukai’s Flip-Flop Sandal
This elevated flip-flop features a shock-absorbing rubber platform wedge bottom for added protection between you and the sidewalk.
5. Avoid embellishments
Decorative devices such as buckles and lacing systems can enhance a sandal’s styling but can also interfere with sensitive spots on the foot, so it’s best to avoid them. Metal rubbing against the skin can cause blisters, while gladiator sandal styles that lace up the foot are often hard to adjust and laced too tightly can be uncomfortable.
Try: Clark’s Moon Sandal
Done in soft leather, this plush sandal offers plenty of customization with adjustable hook-and-loop closures and cushioned Ortholite footbed
All products featured have been independently selected and curated by our editorial team. If you buy something through the links included on our site, FN may earn a commission.
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