7 Pairs of Summer Sandals You’ll Want to Wear All Year Long
Warm weather means finally freeing our poor feet from the boot-, sneaker-, clog-, loafer-, and other-constricting-footwear-prisons they’ve been languishing in all fall and winter. Don’t get me wrong; there are plenty of cute, comfy sneakers and stylish boots out there to love. But there’s something about the perfect pair of summer sandals that makes you wish you could wear them every day, year-round, no matter the weather.
If you struggle to find that perfect pair, though, you’re not alone. Some people can’t stand to have a strap between their toes, and others need more arch support than many summer sandals offer. Then there’s the ongoing quest for summer sandals that can go from beach to backyard BBQ to an evening out at your favorite swanky restaurant. Oh, and if they also work at the office and for running errands, all the better.
That’s why we scoured the internet to find the best sandals to suit every need: If your feet are ready for summer, we’ve got sandals that will work for you. Keep scrolling to shop our picks for the pairs you’ll want to wear all year long!
Birkenstock Arizona
best everyday sandals
Where to buy: $135, Nordstrom
These classic Birkenstock sandals will never go out of style, and we can see why: They’re comfortable, versatile, durable, and yes, stylish! (As long as you don’t wear them with socks.) With a super-soft footbed that molds to your particular foot shape, and a leather upper that only looks better as it weathers over time, the Arizona will quickly become your go-to sandal. Wear them with your favorite sundresses, with your swimsuit, with jeans, or really with anything at all. If you only have one pair of summer sandals, these should be the ones. Choose from black, brown, copper, or a beautiful azure blue.
Zodiac Baker
best wedge sandals
Where to buy: From $37, Amazon
If you love the look of a wedge sandal — and the added height they give you — then you’ll love these fashion-forward wedges from Zodiac, with their simple lines and comfortable wide straps. They can be dressed up when they need to, but are casual enough to go anywhere without looking too fussy. The Velcro straps are easy to fasten when you’re going out the door in a hurry, and the cushioned footbed keeps your dogs from barking, even after a long day on your feet.
Dansko Sophie
best supportive sandals
Where to buy: $120, Zappos
Danskos are famous for being the number-one choice of nurses, servers, and other people who are on their feet for hours. If you have plantar fasciitis, wear orthotics, or deal with other foot issues, these sandals are worth a try. The wooden soles provide unmatched arch support, while still being stylish, not clunky. They slip right on, and adjustable straps across the toe bed and the ankle ensure a good fit. Choose from seven different color combos!
Zodiac Yovana
best strappy sandals
Where to buy: From $27, Amazon
Strappy sandals are a fun way to show off your pedicure, and this sweet pair comes in a bright orange that goes with anything. (They’re also available in blue and yellow, if those are more your speed.) Braided straps weave around your heels and over your big toes, and a slightly raised footbed offers some cushioning, but no extra height — so if you’re looking for a flat sandal, these are a great choice.
Chaco Mega Z Cloud
best sporty sandals
Where to buy: $115, Zappos
Do you spend your summer adventuring? These sporty sandals are perfect for hiking, rafting, or just taking an after-dinner stroll through the neighborhood. They’re vegan-friendly, with no animal products used in their construction, and have an anti-microbial footbed to keep them from getting stinky (a common woe in the summertime). “Cloud cushioning” offers plenty of support, and they’re available in six colors so you can coordinate them with your favorite pair of shorts — or swim shorts!
Badgley Mischka Carlie Sandal
best dressy sandals
Where to buy: From $151 (Originally $215), Nordstrom
Sometimes, you have to actually dress up, even in the heat, and a pair of Birkenstocks — even metallic ones — just won’t cut it. For those times, we love these delicate sandals from Badgley Mischka, embellished with satin flowers and sequins. The heel is high, but not too high, and it’s thick enough that you won’t have to teeter around uncomfortably all evening. Choose from nude, blush, or white. (P.S. — If you have a wedding to attend, these are a great choice!)
Birkenstock Arizona Waterproof Slides
best waterproof sandals
Where to buy: $45, Nordstrom
Yes, we’re bringing it full circle, back to these classic Arizona Birkenstocks — only this version is fully waterproof, perfect for days in the garden, at the pool, and even when those summer thunderstorms come pouring down. More affordable than their cousin, the classic leather Arizona, these are constructed with a rubber-like material that actually exercises your foot and leg muscles with every step. Snap them up in silver, black, or a bright purple-pink; these sell out fast!
