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Ripping open a fresh pair of shoes you can’t wait to walk 10,000 steps in? A thrilling experience. Finding out they weren’t as comfortable as you thought they were? Considerably less so. That’s why we’re sharing the summer sneakers, flats, and sandals (plus a few kids options) that won’t cause blisters, sweat, and general annoyance.
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A basic slide you can dress up or down...
Our editor's mom swears by Vionic shoes to help manage her plantar fasciitis. This knit pair has a soft, flexible top that won't rub and an insole with arch support. The heel cup promotes full-body alignment, too. It's the perfect option if you're looking for a supportive sandal that won't ruin your outfit.
Teva sandals you can wear everywhere...
We can thank the Olsens for making Tevas chic. These are made from recycled plastic and have quick-dry webbing, a rubber sole for traction, a treatment that’ll minimize odors, and a molded midsole that’ll provide arch support. The strap is adjustable, so you can make them as tight or loose as you want. FYI, from June 22–24, buy one, get one 50% off shoes online.
A heeled sandal that won’t hurt your feet…
This gorgeous sandal is one you won’t be scared to commit to. Designed by podiatrists, it has a supportive footbed and a secure ankle strap for zero sliding around. The block heel is manageable, and the contrast piping is a nice touch.
A sandal you can wear all day long…
From one of our favorite comfy shoe brands, these sandals have a latex-cushioned insole and elastic straps that’ll keep them secure as you’re walking around. They’re really lightweight, so you can stash them in your bag. The sparkles are a fun, aughts-inspired touch.
A pair of waterproof kids sandals…
With this Croc-like sandal, they can splash in the waves without stepping on anything sharp or sliding on the sand. They’re made of nontoxic EVA that’ll dry quickly and won’t cause blisters.
A pair of flip-flops we can’t stop wearing…
These flip-flops made one editor change her mind about the flip-flop trend. The square toe makes them chic, and they’re comfortable on and off the beach. The brightly colored ones are great for zhuzhing up an outfit.
A pair of jelly sandals that bring us back to our youth…
Another trend we weren’t sure of at first? The return of the jelly shoe. But once we had these fisherman sandals on our feet, we were sold. They’re actually easy to walk in and gave us zero blisters right out of the box. You’ll wear them with everything from jorts to dresses.
A ballet flat-sneaker hybrid that’ll be your new obsession…
Whether you tie these up your ankle or keep the laces tucked under, they make a stylish statement your feet will be happy with, too. They have the same comfort as your favorite sneakers, while also allowing you to go sockless.
Kids sandals they can run around in…
These have a cushioned footbed and a padded heel strap, so these won’t slow them down. They’ll be comfy all day long, since the adjustable straps will keep their feet from sliding around.
A pair of trendy sneakers…
This slim sneaker is versatile for wearing with both athletic wear and dresses. Thanks to the soft suede and leather exterior, they barely need any breaking in and can go for miles. One editor wore these all around Europe, and her feet didn’t get hot once.
The first New Balance sneaker we fell in love with…
These are the ultimate cool-dad shoe, from the cushy sole to the suede and mesh upper. We’ve been wearing the gray version for as long as we can remember, because they’re really that timeless. They look cute with athleisure or your favorite pair of summer jeans.
The platform sneaker we can’t get enough of…
If you only have the budget to buy one pair of shoes this summer, make it these Dr. Scholl’s. They have a cloud-like bouncy insole and a platform that isn’t too high, and they don’t rub. We can confirm their viral popularity is worth the hype.
The original Converse low-top sneaker…
A classic for a reason, these are made out of breathable canvas, with the signature blue and red stripe. They look good with sundresses and denim shorts, and can even be worn when lifting weights at the gym.
The Hokas we’ll never part with…
They’re soft, light, and have a breathable mesh upper perfect for even the hottest summer days. We love that they come in an option for wide feet. Even if you’re not into running, they’re great for daily walks.
A flip-flop with arch support…
These are not your typical flip-flops. They’re cushioned, so it doesn’t feel like you’re walking on the ground, plus they mold to your foot for extra comfort. The strap is designed to stay securely on your foot, without causing friction.
A cushioned slide for pool days…
These rubber sandals have an ultra-thick sole and a textured bottom for grip. They also have drainage holes, so they won’t stay wet for long if you wear them to the beach or pool. Pick between a neutral pair, a pop of color, or grab both — they’re under $20 a pop.
An updated pair of Birkenstocks…
Birks have been around for 250 years for a reason. The contoured footbed helps distribute weight and promotes proper posture, while the deep heel cup acts as a cushion. This version is studded in rivets for a cooler, elevated take. We find ourselves slipping into these daily for coffee runs and errands, but you could wear this pair for a casual dinner, too.
A Mary Jane that’ll come in handy for your morning commute…
A cushioned insole gives these more support than your usual cardboard-thin ballet flat, and the slightly square toe is chicer than most. Plus, the flexible strap will keep you from sliding around. They also come in an adorable kids version.
A classic pair of Crocs, because they’re cool again…
Love them or hate them, Crocs are the ideal summer shoe. Those little holes provide ventilation (and drainage, if you’re wearing them around the pool), and they’re incredibly lightweight. The optional back strap is great for stability.
Accessories for additional comfort
A tool that’ll give you the effect of a salon pedicure…
We recently bought this electric callus remover from Dr. Scholl’s and it’s just as good as going to get a $50 pedicure. It’s battery-operated, but it comes with all the batteries you need. Use light pressure along any dry, cracked spots, and you’ll have smooth feet in minutes.
A gel toe separator that prevents rubbing…
If your toes tend to crowd together or overlap in shoes, this is for you. The gel support will keep them separated. You’ll get 12 in the pack, so you can place one on your pinky and one on your big toe when you need some relief.
Arch bands to support flat feet…
If you have low arches or plantar fasciitis, these copper-infused bands will provide enough compression to reduce muscle strain and redistribute pressure. They’re designed to stay odor-free, but you can throw them in the wash between uses.
An anti-blister balm…
Before you slip on new shoes, apply this balm to places that typically form a blister. It creates a frictionless barrier that prevents rubbing, while allantoin in the formula reduces redness and inflammation.