You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort for style—especially when searching for the best walking sandals for women. If you want chic shoes that can handle thousands of steps, Chanel Perkins, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist, recommends you “look for durability and avoid flexibility.” Sandals with built-in arch support that don’t fold in half are the smartest choice, she says. (Sorry, flip-flops—you’re better off poolside.) It might sound counterintuitive, but “rigidity and firmness” in the sole are crucial to lasting comfort.
Still, finding sandals that are both supportive and stylish—especially if you have bunions, flat feet, wide feet, or plantar fasciitis—can be surprisingly tough. That’s why we tested dozens of walking shoes to uncover the most reliable, breathable pairs that hold up to long days exploring new cities (or your own), hiking trails, or standing for hours. From dressy picks for nights out to rugged styles built for trekking, every sandal on this list was thoroughly tested by Glamour editors and meets podiatrist-backed criteria. (TL;DR: Our current favorite is the under-$50 Teva Original.)
Our top walking sandal picks
- Best Overall: Teva Original Universal,
$55$43 - Best for Long Distance Walks: Birkenstock Arizona Slide Sandals, $175
- Best for Travel: Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sky Sandals, $64
- Best for Dresses: Aerosole Dantay Slingback,
$135100 - Best for Work: Sorel Kinetic Impact Y-Strap High Sandals, $135
- Best for Arch Support: Vionic Walk Max, $150
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Clarks Mira Bay,
$75$60
Frequently asked questions
Best Overall: Teva Original Universal
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Original photo from Malia Griggs testing Teva Original Universal
Teva Original Universal
- What we love: Secure straps with Velcro; comfortable sole absorbs shock; molded footbed is good for flat feet; affordable
- Worth noting: Ankle strap can drag on ground; too casual for work
With a cushy yet supportive footbed and flexible rubber outsole, the Teva Originals stood out as one of the most consistently comfortable walking sandals we tested. They’re lightweight, easy to walk in for hours, and require little to no break-in—thanks in part to the smooth strap lining that helps prevent hot spots. The responsive EVA midsole absorbs impact without feeling bulky, and the adjustable straps make it easy to fine-tune the fit. We also like the range of color options (many made with recycled materials) and the approachable price point—these are among the most affordable sandals on our list, without feeling like it.
