Fitness
We Tested 6 Pairs Of Expert-Loved Walking Sandals. Oofos Came Out On Top.
We compiled an epic lineup of editor-tested and expert-recommended walking sandals for women to stomp in style without sacrificing foot health. We spill the tea on which models, materials, cushioning, soles, and support are best, along with our favorite qualities about each pair to help you navigate your shopping journey.
What To Consider
Cushioning
Finding a pair of sandals with supportive cushioning is optimal for pain-free walking, especially if you plan on logging in a lot of miles. Ultimately, it depends on your arch type (high, neutral, or flat) to determine how much cushioning is right for you. Depending on the sandal, sometimes light cushion sandals that mimic barefoot walking can strengthen feet if no foot issues are present, says Kalika. However, conditions such as plantar fasciitis would benefit from maximum cushioned sandals as long as the sole is slightly firm. Too much cushion can cause feet to not walk in a controlled motion if there’s no firmness to counteract it.
Support
Good sandal support has a sole that reduces impact or a conforming sole that molds to the foot and is usually made with EVA foam. Kalika also recommends adjustable sandals with ground force-resistant soles, which is when the foot comes into contact with the surface. If you have flat feet, choosing slip-ons with arch support is important, since they reduce pressure on your dogs while walking.
Materials
Water-resistant materials such as foam are ideal when choosing a walking sandal. Unless socks are worn, your feet are bound to sweat, especially during hot temperatures. This can cause slippage while walking. Waterproof materials are also best if you expect to visit any wet terrain or are experiencing rain. Another plus? Foam is extremely easy to wash to keep sandals looking fresh. As for other materials, rubber is great for repelling moisture, while suede is great for absorbing dampness when feet get sweaty.
Outsole
The outsole can differ depending on what terrain you will be walking on. In general, it’s good to look for a sole with a non-slip grip. Finding a sandal, like the Hoka Hopara 2, with a grippy or lugged sole is best when walking on rocks, trails, or muddy terrain.
How We Chose
Women’s Health editors, including fitness commerce editor Nicolette Accardi, tested the Oofos OOahh Slide to see if it made the cute. She also consulted an expert about what kind of features to look for and avoid when choosing a walking sandal, whether or not you have any pre-existing foot conditions. Additionally, the team examined customer reviews and ratings to make sure these walking sandals were legit. We considered sandals that had ample cushioning, and arch support, and could be walked in for miles. What are you waiting for? Kick your summer shoe game up a notch while saving your feet with some of our favorite walking sandals for women.
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Many testers describe the Oofos OOahh Slide as walking on clouds, and I agree. The cushioned footbed feels squishy, yet supportive, which means my dogs were comfortable even after a long day of walking at the beach. With each step, I noticed a resilient, springy bounce-back thanks to the brand’s proprietary foam, which is both sturdy yet extremely cushioned. Based on my extensive testing, I found it reduces the impact on feet and knees. Compared to the typical pair of sandals, it maintains shape while cradling your arches.
It’s amazing for runners who experience runner’s knee (me) and are seeking a recovery sandal post-run, or for casual use. My boyfriend has a pair and loves wearing it as house shoes.
Our WH executive health and fitness director, Jacqueline Andriakos, adores the flip-flop version featuring the same OOfoam technology.” The foam seriously molds to my feet and arches, and it feels like you’re getting a mini massage with each step,” she says.
I’ve tossed my pair in the washing machine for a quick clean and the foam has stayed intact. Don’t want to risk it? No worries—the dense foam is designed to combat odors.
Read more: Best Recovery Sandals
| Material | Closed-cell foam |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-16 |
| Colors | 7 colorways |
Pros
- Good for stability
- Absorbs moisture to keep feet dry
- Many styles to choose from
Cons
- Doesn’t have great traction
Overpronation happens when the foot arch rolls inward, resulting in flat feet. Luckily, the classic Arizona slide is expert-approved to help keep feet aligned and come in many pretty hues depending on which model you choose.
“Birkenstock sandals are designed with an anti-pronation insole with a soft cork, which gives a sensation of cushioning, but resembles a semirigid orthotic shell,” says Kalika. He prefers models with double straps to help feet stay in place for more control and balance. The cork is also contoured, which means it will accommodate feet with a custom fit that molds to the insole. Overall, both features will help prevent the arch from rolling inward while walking (aka overpronation).
The Oofos sandal also has double strap support, but the Arizona sandals have adjustable buckles for a custom fit and different width options—regular to wide, and medium to narrow. Despite many styles coming in suede, it can absorb moisture and keep feet cozy with a cushioned footbed. It also doesn’t hurt that the style is ultra cute.
Read more: Best Walking Shoes
| Materials | Suede, leather, cork, EVA foam |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4-12.5 |
| Colors | 3 colorways |
Pros
- Drains water despite enclosed design
- Breathable mesh for air circualtion
- Excellent traction
Cons
- A bit heavy
Hoka knows how to make great walking sandals. Case in point: this mesh sneak, which has a generously wide toe box and cushioning. Both features kept my bunion-prone feet from any aches and pains.
I’ve worn this gorp-core sandal for long-distance walking and hiking and can attest to the excellent comfort and traction. Compared to the last model, it has an improved mesh-enclosed design to protect feet from the elements but still has enough ventilation for draining water in wet conditions. I’ve even worn these in the ocean, so I swear it’s legit.
As for support, it has a flexible EVA foam mid and top sole that reduces stress on the ankles and keeps feet aligned for a more natural walking gait. For context, walking gait refers to foot movement.
I also found that the sock-like collar had a snug-yet-secure fit that kept my ankles in place, even when I was speed walking. One note—we did find that the Hopara 2 is heavier than a lot of other picks on this list.
| Material | Rubber, mesh, EVA foam |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-11 |
| Color | 5 colorways |
Kalika recommends Shamma sandals for everyone, as long as her feet doesn’t have any musculoskeletal issues (muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, joints, and cartilage).
Kalika has examined a wide range of walking sandals with different features, but says the brand is stellar for having a cushioned, slip-resistant sole that compresses and molds to feet for lasting comfort. The sole is firm-yet-flexible to maintain control while in motion. Another major flex? You can order custom soles to accommodate your unique foot shape.
Shamma sandals are crafted for hiking, running, and gym training, but the model we think is best for walking is the Elite Alphas from the lifestyle collection. Although the firm sole is incredibly light and thin, it still grips the ground. Though we did find that the lack of arch support and low heel drop may aggravate people with plantar fasciitis.
| Material | Suede, rubber, leather |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4-14 |
| Colors | 1 |
Pros
- Washable and durable
- Molds to your feet
- Flexible material for comfortable walking
Cons
- Doesn’t come in half sizes
If you plan on being on your feet all day, the editor-loved Reef Water Vista Slide has proved that it can withstand long wear and wet, messy terrain, just like the Hoka Hopara 2. The conforming sole and supportive two-strap design keep feet in place for hours without causing any pain, which earned it a top spot on our list.
WH commerce editor Jasmine Gomez got her feet through hours of tiring Coachella sets and stage hopping all thanks to the sandals. “When you can wear a shoe all day without any complaints, that means it’s truly comfortable,” says Gomez. The heel is slightly raised for added support, but not excessive, so it’s best for someone who is seeking medium support.
Gomez also says it’s easily washable and looks brand new even after cleaning off layers of dirt and sand. As far as style, you can’t go wrong with a black side.
| Material | EVA foam |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-11 |
| Color | 2 colorways |
Pairing a good walking sandal with nice outfits is easier now that we have discovered the platform Teva sandal. It’s fashion-forward with a slight height at the heel to add more structure while still maintaining comfort. The waterproof straps are also aesthetically pleasing, which makes this sandal chic yet functional.
Buyers highlight that its cushy and compressing EVA foam is so comfortable they can’t help but have multiple pairs and even hike in it. The heel isn’t too high at just over one inch, while also cupping the heel for added support. Testers have said it has a high arch, so they may be best for flat feet.
Unlike the Oofos sandal, the foam is treated with a peppermint-based oil for odor extra protection, so you don’t have to worry about funky smells when your feet get sweaty.
| Material | EVA foam, recycled plastic, polyester |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
| Color | 7 colorways |
Nicolette Accardi is the Fitness Commerce Editor at Women’s Health with a specialty in running content. She likes to chase her next best time by testing out shoes and other running gear while training for races. Nicolette studied journalism and health sociology at Rutgers University. She has written for NJ.com, VICE, Rolling Stone, NBC News Select, and U.S. News & World Report.
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