Choosing the Right Summer Sandals for Your Feet
Footwear often changes with the seasons - and in summer, sandals are the most popular.
With this guide, you'll be on your way to wrapping your feet in comfortable-fitting sandals. Here we answer all your questions about the best sandals for different foot types and the most comfortable sandals for problem feet.
Looking for more information on the best sizing and fit for your sandals? Check out our comprehensive guide to trying on sandals for men and sandals for women.
Are sandals good or bad for your feet?
Wearing sandals can often cause foot problems. They don't offer much heel and arch support, and don't absorb shock - which can lead to pain with prolonged wear.
The good news, though, is that it's easy to find sandals that are good for your feet. The right sandals can:
Reduces stress on feet. Most sandals do not constrict or squeeze your foot from the top, sides and back, thus shielding your feet from the pressure other shoes place on them.
Let your feet breathe. The open nature of the sandal allows your feet to breathe and prevents them from overheating and sweating excessively on those warm summer days.
Provide you with practical footwear options. Sandals are easy to slip on and off, making them perfect for work, picnics, or the beach. While it's not recommended to wear sandals all day, they can be an ideal footwear choice during the summer months.
Which sandals are best for wide feet?
If you have wide feet, it's best to avoid sandals with sides or overlays to prevent your feet from pressing against the material of the sandal and causing pain.
Your feet won't look too big for your sandals either - because you won't have those obvious red lace marks.
Women with wide feet may find that sandals with toe posts, ankles, and straps will provide the best lift.
Men with wide feet should consider sandals with toe posts and open uppers and side straps.
Which sandals are best for narrow feet?
Sandals with adjustable straps are great for narrow feet, as they can be tightened to take pressure off the toes and grip the sole of the foot more tightly.
Adjustable straps are widely available for women looking for the best sandals for narrow feet. For men, they can be harder to find—in this case, sandals with non-adjustable uppers fit the instep and prevent slipper and excessive friction.
Which sandals can help prevent sweating?
The best sandals for sweaty feet are those that are as open as possible. Look for sandals that don't cover the sides and top of your feet -- this will keep your feet cool and prevent the sandals from sticking to your feet.
Avoid suspenders or heel straps that hold your feet in place, as this can make sweating worse.
Which sandals are best for feet with bunions?
The best sandals for feet with bunions are the ones with a little coverage, as they allow your feet to breathe.
Look for toe post styles with ankle straps and straps - these sandals will provide a great fit without compromising bunions.
Which Sandals Can Help Prevent Swelling?
Warm weather can cause fluid retention in the body, sometimes leading to swelling.
If you need a comfortable sandal for a problem foot that suffers from this problem, look for flat styles that offer ankle support.
Open sandals will be the most effective as they will keep your feet cool while regulating your body temperature.