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When it comes to comfortable footwear, nothing beats the heat of summer better than a pair of sandals. Whether for fashion or function, sandals are a great option for keeping feet cool on hot days. However, not all sandals are equal. Some are only for fashion, and can leave feet tired and aching. Poorly designed or ill-fitting sandals often lead to painful blisters and soreness. The best sandals successfully combine function with style to keep feet protected, cushioned, and comfortable. They are sturdy and durable, yet are flexible enough to allow free movement of the foot.
With the number of choices available, shopping for comfortable sandals can at first seem a daunting task. Many sandals are for a specific type of activity and are available in a variety of materials and colors. Consider the seven tips listed below when shopping for comfortable sandals to find a pair that gives the right amount of protection without sacrificing style.
Tip 1: Wear the Right Sandals for the Activity
Most people head outdoors in warm weather for exercise and fun. Hiking, trips to the beach, picnics in the park, and weddings are just a few of the activities that are associated with warm, sunny days. For those who prefer to wear sandals over any other type of shoe, there is a sandal designed for just about every type of summertime activity.
The chart below lists several basic sandals styles along with the features that make them distinct. Choose a sandal based on the intended activity to ensure comfort and safety.
Type of Sandal | Distinguishing Features |
|---|---|
Feature rugged outsoles, stiff midsoles, sturdy toe boxes, and straps that cinch all around the foot; protect feet and give stability on trails and rocks or through water
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Lightweight and water resistant; protect feet during activities such as rafting, fording rivers and streams, and walking along the beach
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Few offer any real protection or support, but are ideal for dressy summer occasions such as weddings and luncheons
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Closed toe boxes prevent stubbed toes and protect toes from obstacles and debris; great for navigating old city streets or light hiking
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Lightweight sandal with a rubber sole; narrow webbing splits the big toe and wraps around the heel for support and stability; great for walking
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Simple rubber sole with a thin V-shaped strap that fits between the toes; provide little support and can cause pain in the ball of the foot; best for short excursions to the beach or pool
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There are many more styles of sandals available, but this overview of the most basic styles is a good starting point when searching for a comfortable pair based on an intended activity.
Tip 2: Get the Right Fit
When it comes to finding comfortable shoes, how well they fit is the deciding factor. The foot should be smaller than the sole of the sandal and should not hang over the front, sides, or back. Make sure the toe box is large enough to accommodate the widest part of the foot. Straps should be comfortably snug without pinching or rubbing on the foot, toes, or back of the heel. If sandals are too big, feet can slide around, causing blisters on the toes, the back of the heels, or even the bottom of the foot.
Tip 3: Choose Quality Materials
The most comfortable sandals consist of high quality materials. Leather, suede, or fabric straps let feet breathe and prevent blistering, while straps made from nylon webbing or polyurethane are great for water activities. The footbed should have an absorbent, breathable fabric covering to reduce sweating and slipping. Top soles, midsoles, and outsoles made from materials such as memory foam, ethylene-vinyl acetate, and durable rubbers last longer and give more protection and support.
Tip 4: Watch the Placement and Design of Straps
Poorly placed straps can cause irritation, blisters, and even corns. Sandals with back straps that hit just below the ankle provide the most comfortable, secure fit. Avoid straps that rub against the top of the foot, between the toes, or around the ankle. Straps lined with soft leather or suede prevent chafing. Watch for seams and other design elements that may rub or dig into feet and cause discomfort.
Tip 5: Look for Arch Support
Adequate arch support prevents muscle fatigue, cramps, and even back pain. Few sandals are ideal for all-day walking and most do not offer the necessary arch support for extended wear. Sandals with spongy, supportive midsoles cushion the foot and support the arch, keeping the wearer comfortable for a longer period of time.
Tip 6: Test for Flexibility
When it comes to flexibility, there is such a thing as too much. Every type of shoe needs to pass the same flexibility test. Place one hand inside the sandal and use the tips of the fingers to hold the ball of the sandal down on a table or other flat surface. Use the other hand to try to lift the toe tip of the shoe off the table. The sole should flex through the ball area and allow the toe to lift easily off the table. Additionally, the arch area should remain stiff and unflexed when the shoe is twisted. If the entire shoe twists and bends easily, it is unlikely to provide the support needed for comfortable extended wear.
Tip 7: Check for Sufficient Cushioning
For all-day comfort, a sandal should offer plenty of cushioning for both the heel and ball of the foot. Look for sandals with midsoles made from a high-quality, dense foam. Press a finger into the foam where the heel and the ball of the foot rest. If there is too much give in these areas, or no give at all, the sandals may not provide sufficient cushioning.
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