Supportive sandals might not be the flashiest footwear, however they’re essential for stopping and managing foot ache, particularly when you’ve got plantar fasciitis, flat ft, or overpronation. “Arch help in sandals helps distribute stress evenly throughout the foot. It reduces pressure on the plantar fascia and improves alignment,” says Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS. As a substitute of flimsy flip-flops, podiatrists advocate sandals with contoured footbeds, adjustable straps, and a slight heel carry to ease stress on the Achilles and supply lasting help.
To see which sandals supply the most effective arch help, we examined over a dozen pairs for six weeks, logging 2,500 hours of damage and roughly 2.5 million steps. We prioritized kinds with construction, shock-absorbing supplies like EVA and cork, and actual arch help, all based mostly on skilled recommendation from podiatrists. Whether or not you’re heading out for an extended stroll or simply want one thing dependable for on a regular basis put on, these are the sandals that handed the consolation check and supplied essentially the most help.
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What Podiatrists Need You to Know
When purchasing for sandals that help your foot well being, listed here are the options foot specialists say matter most:
- Contoured footbeds: Sandals ought to mimic the pure arch of your foot, not lie flat. A curved, supportive footbed helps align the foot and cut back pressure on the plantar fascia.
- Agency, structured soles: Keep away from sandals that fold in half or twist simply; these gained’t present the long-term stability your ft want. “A well-made sandal has a sole that bends solely on the toe, not by way of the arch,” says Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, board-certified podiatrist specializing in sports activities drugs and biomechanics.
- Slight heel carry: A small wedge (roughly 1 inch) can ease stress on the Achilles tendon and supply extra help than a totally flat sole.
- Adjustable straps: Search for straps on the forefoot and ankle to safe the foot and accommodate swelling, bunions, or distinctive foot shapes. A poor match could cause rubbing and cut back the sandal’s help.
- Shock-absorbing supplies: Cork and EVA midsoles are podiatrist favorites for balancing softness with help and lowering affect in your joints.
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The Greatest Time to Store for Sandals
At all times attempt on sandals within the night. Toes swell all through the day, and buying later helps you discover a match that can keep comfy when your ft are at their largest.
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How We Chosen and Examined
To seek out essentially the most supportive sandals for various foot varieties and circumstances, we mixed skilled recommendation with real-world testing. We spoke with board-certified podiatrist Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, who really helpful structured soles, contoured footbeds, shock-absorbing supplies like cork or EVA, and slight heel lifts to cut back pressure. She additionally emphasised the significance of adjustable straps and highlighted manufacturers equivalent to Birkenstock, Dansko, OOFOS, and Vionic.
Utilizing her steering, we examined over 50 pairs of sandals designed for all the things from each day put on to restoration and out of doors exercise. Over the course of six weeks, our testers evaluated every pair, together with attributes equivalent to:
- Structural integrity: We carried out a bend and twist check to make sure every sandal was agency and supportive, not flimsy or overly versatile.
- Match and luxury: Testers walked for half-hour in the course of the preliminary put on and logged a minimum of three hours of use per session, three to 4 occasions per week.
- Actual-life efficiency: We assessed consolation, stability, shock absorption, and help throughout each day errands, lengthy walks, and various terrain.
- Lengthy-term sturdiness: Testers monitored how sandals held up over time, noting adjustments in consolation, help, or construction.
- Situation-specific suitability: We cross-referenced consolation and help ranges in opposition to widespread points like plantar fasciitis, flat ft, and overpronation.
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Our Experience
Lauren Paige Richeson is a seasoned Well being editor who has lined well being, health gear, and footwear since 2022. With a background in biology and over a decade of expertise reporting on well being and wellness, she brings a science-first, condition-focused lens to each story. She additionally collaborated carefully with Well being’s product testing crew to guage every pair of sandals in real-world settings, prioritizing consolation, sturdiness, and structural help throughout a variety of foot varieties and circumstances.
For this text, she consulted the next specialists:
- Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, board-certified podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic
- Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, board-certified podiatrist at Ankle & Foot Facilities of America
- Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, board-certified podiatrist specializing in sports activities drugs and biomechanics
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“Constructed-in arch help and a modest heel carry can considerably enhance foot alignment and cut back each day pressure, particularly for individuals who spend hours on their ft,” says Alvarez. That’s precisely why the Teva Tirra stood out to us throughout testing.
With a contoured footbed, shock-absorbing midsole, and three adjustable Velcro straps, these sandals supplied the sort of all-day consolation that didn’t require a break-in interval.
Whether or not operating errands, strolling canine, or commuting on foot, our testers discovered that these sandals delivered lasting consolation and dependable help. The supportive design helped forestall flare-ups of plantar fasciitis, whereas the cushioned sole supplied sufficient construction to deal with lengthy hours of damage on onerous surfaces.
One tester famous, “These really feel like a tennis shoe. The cushion and arch help are nice, and I didn’t want to regulate something mid-walk; they only labored.” One other tester, who walks a number of miles each day and lives with plantar fasciitis, reported zero flare-ups at the same time as she elevated her mileage. The Tirras have since turn into a part of her go-to shoe rotation.
The Teva Tirra sandals excel in consolation and help, however their sporty design might not go well with dressier events. Nevertheless, they’re a terrific alternative for on a regular basis put on, particularly for these with swelling, delicate ft, or reasonable arch help wants.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | Girls’s 5 – 12, together with half sizes |
| Heel peak | Approx. 1-inch |
| Closure | Adjustable hook-and-loop (Velcro) straps at forefoot, instep, and heel |
| Supplies | Recycled quick-dry webbing, EVA midsole, nylon shank, Shoc Pad™ in heel |
| Assist | Contoured arch, cushioned heel, and secure sole for all-day put on |
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The Dansko Tanya is a standout choice for people with excessive arches, providing distinctive construction, a deep heel cup, and a contoured footbed that retains the arches supported throughout prolonged intervals of damage. Our tester instantly seen the distinction in stability and stated her ft didn’t really feel drained, even after a mile-long stroll throughout sidewalks, grass, and uneven concrete.
“The footbed is admittedly comfy, supportive, and durable,” she stated. “I see why this model is well-liked with individuals who work on their ft.” Though she had common arches, the elevated arch help helped forestall foot fatigue and absorbed affect with out counting on overly squishy supplies.
The leather-based straps are adjustable for a customized match, and the only real solely bends barely on the toe, indicating wonderful construction and long-term sturdiness. These sandals simply slide on and off however nonetheless supply the sort of full-foot help usually lacking in additional versatile, flat-soled summer season footwear.
The colour didn’t match expectations for one tester, showing beige fairly than the anticipated pebbled grey. The type additionally feels extra useful than trendy.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5.5 – 12 |
| Heel peak | 2.25 inch with a 1-inch platform |
| Closure | Twin adjustable buckle straps |
| Supplies | Leather-based higher, cork/EVA midsole, rubber outsole |
| Assist | Contoured footbed, deep heel cup, and arch help for prime arches |
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With built-in arch help, delicate cushioning, and an adjustable match, the Baretraps Flicka Sandal is a uncommon mix of favor and help, making it ultimate for individuals with flat ft who don’t wish to compromise on look. Our tester, who lives with flat ft, bunions, and hammer toes, discovered these sandals to be comfy straight out of the field, noting, “They didn’t irritate my bunions in any respect and had loads of arch help.”
The Flicka offers stability and underfoot construction with out feeling cumbersome. Testers appreciated the safe match because of Velcro-adjustable straps and located the sandal breathable sufficient for hotter climate. One standout remark: “I wore them for five to six hours at a time and even to occasions—I had no discomfort or knee ache, which I normally take care of.”
The Flicka is nice for all the things from errands to events, giving your ft the help they want with out making them appear to be they’re in a clunky therapeutic shoe.
The Flicka is supportive and cushioned however not appropriate for intense strolling or athletic use. It’s ultimate for on a regular basis put on and errands. For a sportier choice, try a extra performance-oriented sandal from our checklist.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 11, together with half sizes |
| Heel peak | 1.38 inch heel with 0.63 inch platform |
| Closure | Adjustable hook-and-loop strap |
| Supplies | Fake leather-based higher, cork-wrapped midsole, artificial outsole |
| Assist | Cushioned insole with built-in arch help; versatile, shock-absorbing sole |
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For lengthy walks and out of doors use, Alvarez recommends sandals with a strong grip, cushioning, and construction to assist forestall pressure or damage over time. The Eager Hoodzerra suits that description nicely. Throughout testing, our reviewer discovered it held up comfortably and securely on a variety of surfaces, together with uneven floor, with none slipping or added fatigue. “My ft felt very safe and supported throughout a number of terrains,” they stated.
The footbed affords noticeable arch and heel help, whereas the cushioning is agency sufficient to remain secure with out feeling stiff. Regardless of having quick toes that always trigger match points, our tester didn’t expertise any rubbing or blisters on this pair. The supplies felt robust and sturdy, and the sandals carried out nicely in flexibility and stability exams.
They don’t appear to be your common open-toe sandal, and that’s a part of the enchantment. As one tester put it, “I’d completely put on these for river rafting.” For anybody who wants arch help in additional rugged settings, this pair strikes a great steadiness between protection, construction, and breathability.
The design is extra utilitarian than informal, which can not enchantment to these wanting a minimalist look.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | Unisex sizing: M4/W6 – M13/W15 |
| Heel peak | 0.71 inch with 0.51 inch drop |
| Closure | Adjustable hook-and-loop strap with quick-cinch lace system |
| Supplies | Recycled PET higher, EVA midsole, rubber outsole |
| Assist | Contoured footbed, arch help, and heel stability for out of doors efficiency |
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When you want a sandal that may really sustain with you, the Naot Baltimore is a strong alternative. It pairs a delicate, suede-covered cork-and-latex footbed with a safe match that held up nicely throughout lengthy days on foot. One in every of our testers wore them for five to six hours at a time whereas operating errands and reported zero joint ache even after strolling on pavement, sidewalks, and rocky patches. “The footbed was so delicate and even a bit of bouncy,” they stated. “I had no joint ache even after lengthy days of strolling.”
That footbed bounce isn’t only a consolation bonus—it’s backed by science. “Cork footbeds and supportive midsole supplies like EVA can actually assist with shock absorption and cut back stress on the joints,” explains Alvarez. The Baltimore makes use of each supplies to maintain you comfy and secure as you progress by way of the day.
In comparison with related slip-on kinds, our tester discovered these much more comfy than their go-to Birkenstocks. They’re straightforward to stroll in, sturdy sufficient for journey, and safe with out feeling tight, making them a terrific decide in the event you’re going to be in your ft for hours at a time.
Whereas our tester praised the consolation and craftsmanship, they famous the design felt a bit of dated in comparison with trendier choices. That stated, Naot affords a variety of kinds that use the identical ultra-comfortable footbed.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4 – 11 |
| Heel peak | 1.25 inches |
| Closure | Slip-on type with broad leather-based straps (non-adjustable) |
| Supplies | Leather-based higher, suede-covered cork and latex footbed, EVA sole |
| Assist | Anatomical footbed with arch help, deep heel cup, and shock absorption |
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“A well-made sandal has a structured sole that doesn’t bend simply, agency heel help, and high quality supplies. If it folds in half or feels flimsy, it seemingly lacks the steadiness wanted for long-term put on,” says Alvarez. The MBT Malia does precisely that: it flexes barely on the toes, proper the place it ought to, and holds its form throughout our twist exams. The supplies felt sturdy and supportive with out being stiff or uncomfortable, making this a standout choice for individuals who prioritize management, steadiness, and long-lasting put on.
With a rocker-style sole and twin Velcro straps, it helps a easy, rolling stride whereas minimizing side-to-side wobble. One in every of our testers, who usually struggles with ankle instability, stated, “There isn’t a side-to-side rolling in any respect—you’re by no means in peril of twisting your ankle, even on turf or concrete.”
The curved heel and EVA midsole encourage ahead momentum and muscle engagement, which made strolling really feel extra fluid and grounded. “I felt extra related to the bottom,” our tester famous, describing the expertise as much like her favourite curved-heel strolling sneakers.
The design lacks adequate forefoot cushioning, which can be noticeable for these with metatarsalgia or forefoot ache. Moreover, MBT affords restricted coloration choices and no half sizes, which could not go well with all foot varieties.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5 – 11, together with half sizes |
| Heel peak | Approx. 1.5 inches |
| Closure | Twin adjustable hook-and-loop (Velcro) straps at ankle and forefoot |
| Supplies | Leather-based higher, EVA footbed, rubber outsole |
| Assist | Rocker sole for enhanced stability and muscle activation; reasonable arch help |
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Flip-flops aren’t precisely recognized for help—in reality, most are the alternative. Lack of help contributes to fatigue, pressure, and generally even accidents. “I usually see flare-ups of plantar fasciitis, heel ache, and tendonitis linked to flimsy sandals or flip-flops,” says Alvarez. That’s why discovering a pair with precise construction, like Archie’s Flip Flops, could make a giant distinction.
Designed by a physiotherapist, Archie’s flip-flops include a contoured footbed, built-in arch help, and a barely raised heel to cut back stress on the ft. They’re created from a soft EVA materials that mimics the texture of an orthotic insert, which helps take in shock and cut back pressure throughout informal put on. “Flip-flops are notoriously unsupportive, however in the event you’re going to put on them, search for a contoured footbed with actual arch help and a comfortable match that reduces foot pressure,” provides Alvarez.
Our tester, who usually avoids flip-flops as a consequence of bunions and flat ft, was pleasantly stunned: “They’re comparatively comfy for a flip-flop. The adjustable strap is a good function, and so they’re extra supportive than what I’m used to.” They aren’t made for lengthy walks, however for errands, yard put on, or fast journeys exterior; they provide way more consolation and construction than your common pair. When you’re after an informal flip-flop that gained’t go away your arches aching, these are price slipping into.
The signature toe publish could also be uncomfortable for these not used to flip-flops. Though they supply extra help than common, they nonetheless have limitations for long-distance strolling or extended put on.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | Unisex 4 – 14 |
| Heel peak | Approx. 1 inch heel carry (heel-to-toe drop) |
| Closure | Slip-on type with agency toe-post strap |
| Supplies | Single-piece proprietary EVA foam |
| Assist | Excessive arch help, slight heel increase, designed to imitate orthotic footwear |
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Discovering sandals that don’t pinch or rub may be robust when you have got broad ft, however the Naot Santa Barbara actually nails it with a mix of help and roominess. “When you’ve bought broad ft, search for sandals marked as wide-fit, with contoured footbeds and adjustable straps,” says Alvarez. That’s precisely what this sandal brings to the desk.
With two broad, adjustable leather-based straps and a snug footbed, our tester discovered it tremendous straightforward to get a great match proper from the beginning. “My ft felt supported and safe—even and not using a again strap. I had sufficient room to breathe, however I didn’t really feel like my foot was sliding round,” they stated. The cork-and-latex footbed is formed to help your arch and cradle the heel, which helps preserve your foot secure all day lengthy.
Despite the fact that it doesn’t have a ton of plush cushioning, the sandal’s midsole is sweet sufficient at absorbing shock to maintain you cozy throughout lengthy walks on pavement and indoor flooring. For anybody with broad ft who’s used to settling for much less when it comes to match, this slip-on type is a breath of recent air—no annoying break-in interval, no hotspots, and no slipping round.
The absence of a again strap might cut back safety on uphill or uneven terrain. Whereas the entrance straps safe the foot for on a regular basis put on, these needing ankle help would possibly go for a distinct type.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 7 – 14 |
| Heel peak | 1.25-inch with 5-inch platform |
| Closure | Slip-on type with twin adjustable hook-and-loop straps |
| Supplies | Leather-based higher, cork and latex footbed, EVA outsole |
| Assist | Contoured footbed with deep heel cup, arch help, and shock-absorbing sole |
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Birkenstock is among the kinds our podiatrist specialists usually advocate, because of its sturdy construct and supportive, motion-controlling design. The Birkenstock Mogami Terra is all the things an overpronator wants in a sandal: excessive arch help, wonderful floor stability, and a agency, motion-controlling footbed. Made with the model’s signature anatomically formed PU (polyurethane) sole, this sandal encompasses a raised arch and deep heel cup that helps align the foot naturally, lowering the tendency to roll inward throughout strolling.
Our tester, who described their foot kind as barely flat and liable to fatigue, stated, “The arch help appeared intense, however as soon as I began strolling, it felt good—it really decreased foot fatigue over longer walks.” The molded footbed supplied stability throughout numerous surfaces, from paved sidewalks to gentle grass terrain, with no slipping or instability.
Regardless of the sandal’s rugged construct, it was surprisingly breathable and comfy even in excessive warmth. The adjustable straps helped create a custom-made, cosy match, particularly essential for these with broad ft or anybody needing to safe the heel in place. The tester added, “This sandal introduced me again to sporting sandals each day once more. I didn’t wish to take them off.”
Whereas the Mogami Terra excels in construction and help, the footbed is agency, not cushioned like reminiscence foam, so it could not go well with these searching for plush softness. Additionally, the absence of a versatile heel loop might make slipping them on hands-free a bit tough.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | Unisex EU 35 – 46 |
| Heel peak | Approx. 1.5 inches |
| Closure | Hook-and-loop backstrap and two adjustable straps |
| Supplies | Birko-Flor higher, PU footbed and sole |
| Assist | Anatomically formed footbed with deep heel cup and pronounced arch help |
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Flip-flops normally aren’t really helpful for individuals with plantar fasciitis, however the Oofos OOlala is a significant exception. Folks with plantar fasciitis want critical arch help and affect safety in each step, even in summer season footwear,” says Parthasarathy. That’s precisely what units these aside. Made with the model’s proprietary OOfoam, these sandals cradle the arch and cushion each step, providing marshmallow-soft consolation that testers described as “a consolation mat in your ft.”
One tester, who offers with frequent plantar fasciitis flare-ups, stated, “I had fully sworn off flip-flops—till these. I might stand for lengthy intervals of time, prepare dinner, play with my youngsters, and by no means really feel a twinge in my heels.” The standout help mixed with joint-friendly cushioning made them ultimate for prolonged standing and light-weight strolling, particularly indoors or on dry surfaces.
The stretchy strap and toe publish didn’t trigger rubbing, even on broad ft, and the sandals molded shortly to the foot. Although they’re ultra-cushy, the molded arch help offers them orthopedic credibility. For anybody who thought flip-flops had been off the desk with PF, these change the sport.
The squishy consolation of those sandals makes them nice for restoration and standing, however they’ll really feel unstable on slick surfaces. Our reviewer discovered them slippery when moist, particularly on stairs. Whereas they work nicely as home footwear or poolside put on, they are not appropriate for high-risk or moist environments.
| Product Particulars | |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5 – 12 |
| Heel peak | Approx. 1 inch |
| Closure | Slip-on (thong-style flip-flop) |
| Supplies | OOfoam™ proprietary EVA mix, artificial higher |
| Assist | Contoured footbed with arch help, heel cup, and impact-absorbing cushioning |
Whatever the model, podiatrists agree: the most effective sandals ought to have contoured footbeds, agency soles, and adjustable straps for correct match and help. That stated, all three of our specialists persistently pointed to the next manufacturers for delivering dependable arch help, sturdy building, and lasting consolation.
- Birkenstock: Really useful for its contoured cork footbeds and deep heel cups that assist with flat ft, overpronation, and all-day put on. We had been impressed with the Mogami Terra, particularly for individuals who overpronate.
- OOFOS: Affords cushioned EVA foam soles ultimate for plantar fasciitis and joint reduction, excellent for restoration and standing. Our testers raved in regards to the OOFOS OOlala.
- Dansko: Nice for prime arches and individuals who work on their ft all day; the model’s rocker soles present additional help and construction. That is precisely what we discovered after we examined the Dansko Girls’s Tanya.
- Teva: A go-to for energetic days, with safe straps, shock-absorbing soles, and kinds just like the Tirra that go well with lengthy walks and out of doors put on.
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