The 13 Best Walking Sandals With Arch Support, According to Podiatrists and Testing

Cleypool also recommends Vionic sandals—specifically the Tide 2.0 flip-flops for flat feet and plantar fasciitis—as they “provide noticeably more support than traditional flat sandals or flip-flop,” she notes. These best-selling sandals also have the APMA Seal of Acceptance and feature the brand’s Vio Motion Technology with contoured arch support, shock-absorbing cushioning, and a deep heel cup. Plus, they offer a comfortable fit (sans blisters!) thanks to a soft woven toe post and foam-lined strap.

What a reviewer says: “From the moment I slip into my Vionic Tide sandals, it feels like a little slice of heaven. The arch support is perfection, cradling my feet like they were custom-made for me, and the heel support makes standing feel effortless. The strap? Soft and comfy—no rubbing, no fuss, just pure comfort.”

Included in our list of the best walking sandals, these Vionic sandals have the APMA Seal of Acceptance, thanks to the lightweight, nitrogen-infused foam midsole that offers high rebound to enhance your walking motion. The built-in Vio Motion Technology footbed also features contoured arch support, shock-absorbing cushioning, forefoot flexibility, and a deep heel cup to provide stability.

What a reviewer says: “These are the most comfortable walking sandals I’ve ever worn. I can go on long walks and feel like I’m wearing my usual walking shoes, except now I have cooler feet. They have a super cushiony sole while also providing firm arch support. The three different Velcro straps provide an individualized fit that keeps the shoe in place.”

Splichal recommends these sandals from Aetrex, noting that they’re secure on the foot with arch support and comfortable straps. In fact, they come with a total of three adjustable straps for the perfect customizable fit, including for wider feet. They’re also designed with a lightweight memory foam footbed for comfy cushioning, featuring the brand’s signature arch support that is biomechanically placed to help align your body and stabilize your feet.

What a reviewer says: “These are my fifth pair of Aetrex shoes...My foot is difficult to fit, wide with short toes and a high arch. These were comfortable right out of the box. Good arch support...I am going to buy another pair in a different color. I recommend these for the accurate fit, adjustable straps, and overall comfort.”

Cleypool also recommends Hoka’s Ora recovery sandals for their high level of support; it’s also a personal favorite of Parthasarathy’s. “As soon as I get home I slip into my Hoka Ora Recovery slides, which I have used for the past year,” she previously shared. “I love the lightweight, cushioned arch support, especially when carrying my newborn around the house.” Having earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, these slides offer plush, foot-cradling cushioning and great breathability with its four air flow channels.

What a reviewer says: “Purchased these slides to wear at home to help with plantar fasciitis. After one day, I could completely feel the difference. I am still nursing my foot, but this shoe has drastically helped with healing. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a good arch support! I sized down one size and they fit great.”

Chaco sandals are loved by Prevention editors and podiatrists alike. “Chacos are my favorite adventure sandals. They have many different sandal types appropriate for different activities and different levels of support: Classic, Cloud, Rapid Pro, and Cush Z,” says Parthasarathy. “I love their footbed, support levels, and the straps! The adjustable straps are key for stability. They can also get wet!” The best-selling Z/1 classic sandals offer a supportive footbed with arch support, a customizable fit with the quick-dry, adjustable straps, and an extra grippy outsole for traction on all types of terrain.

What an editor says: I previously tested these sandals and loved their unique pull-through strap system, which allows for a highly adjustable, secure fit. They also have a super durable and sturdy construction with a thick, high contoured arch support. Combined with the super-grippy outsole that prevents slips on wet traction, I think these sandals are really great for active outdoor activities like hiking and water adventures.

For a supportive pair of water-friendly beach sandals, look no further than OluKai’s best-selling Ohanas. Lightweight and durable, these flip-flops are designed with high arch support and a durable rubber outsole for enhanced grip and traction. They also have comfortable, quick-drying lining with a soft nylon toe post and water-resistant straps, making them ideal for the beach and water activities.

What an editor says: Prevention’s Deputy Health Editor Kaitlyn Phoenix called these flip-flops her “versatile, comfy staple for summer” in her review. “I never got any blisters or felt uncomfortable with them on. I consider that a huge win, especially for flip-flops!” she wrote. “The materials are durable and definitely held up well when wet..If you’re looking for a durable, stylish, and comfortable sandal for summer, I wholeheartedly recommend the OluKai Ohana beach sandals.”

One of the most popular choices for sport sandals, Teva is both a podiatrist- and editor-favorite for walking and hiking. Splichal particularly likes the Tirria style, which she notes has “comfortable straps, traction on the sole, and is secured on the foot, so good for hiking.” These shoes boast a contoured EVA midsole with great arch support, along with a nylon shank that’s designed to stabilize and support your feet on uneven terrain, and a cushioned shock pad in the heel that absorbs impact. They also have quick-dry, adjustable straps and a durable rubber outsole that offers great traction.

What a reviewer says: “I absolutely love my Tevas! I try not to wear any other shoes. I’ve had back problems and hip issues for decades...This is the third pair I’ve had and I don’t see any reason to try anything else. The three adjustable straps make it easy to fit most feet... I have high arches and find the arch support keeps my feet from getting tired and relieves pain in my back, hips, and knees. I highly recommend these shoes.”

Here’s another pair of Birkenstocks that Parthasarathy loves. The stylish Gizeh sandals also come with the brand’s signature, anatomically-shaped cork footbed with built-in arch support and a deep heel cup—but in a classic thong style with an elegant, adjustable buckle. The EVA sole offers lightweight, shock-absorbing support, while the footbed is lined with soft smooth leather for comfort.

What a reviewer says: “The initial break-in was as expected, but after a few wears...I don’t think I'll own another pair of sandals again. I’ve never been able to walk for long periods of time in any type of sandal because there’s never any arch support. Because these form to your foot, they provide the comfort that’s needed. If you’ve been on the fence about this brand, just dive right in. Your feet will thank you!”

Looking for a comfy slide sandal? Splichal recommends the Sahara from Orthofeet for its “good arch support, comfortable straps, and traction on the outsole.” These orthotic sandals have three straps across the foot that are all adjustable for a truly customizable, foot-hugging fit, as well as a soft, padded fabric interior that’s non-irritating for sensitive feet. They also have a cushioned orthotic insole with anatomical arch support (with an included Arch Booster for even more support!) and an ergonomic outsole with a mild rocker design to help relieve foot and heel pain.

What a reviewer says: “Great fit, comfortable and supportive. Finally found a pair of sandals that fit well look good and I can walk around all day without my feet hurting. The arch support is good and you can add a little extra with a device that they include in the box. All the straps are adjustable so you can get a perfect fit so your feet are secure and don’t slide out. The cushioning is good and appreciate the nonslip sole.”

Parthasarathy recommends these chic open-toe sandals from Dansko, which are constructed with high-quality, soft leather uppers and a comfortable platform sole. “For a cuter, casual option, I love the Dansko clog footbed and traction sole. The straps add stability as well,” she says. “I like the soft leather to accommodate foot deformities like bunions and the ankle strap for stabilization.” These sandals also boast soft memory foam cushioning on top of a dual-density EVA and cork midsole.

What a reviewer says: “These sandals are beautiful and so comfy!” said one Amazon shopper. “The craftsmanship is amazing. The footbed is very soft and has a memory foam layer, and the arch support is very good. These look great with everything from jeans to shorts to spring dresses. They’re well worth the price!”

If you’re looking for a comfy hiking sandal with great arch support, Hoka has you covered. Though the brand is typically known for their running shoes, their new Infini Hike TC also comes podiatrist-approved. Parthasarathy recommends it as a “neutral, cushioned, quick-dry hiking sandal,” noting: “I like the plush footbed and that it is neutral so just the right amount of support for many foot types. It has a deep heel cup and three adjustable straps!” The open-toe adventure sandal also features a durable outsole for enhanced grip on slippery surfaces.

What an editor says: Commerce Editor Jessica Dukesrecently reviewed these hiking sandals, putting them to a 30-mile test. “The Hoka Infiti Hike TC is a versatile two-in-one shoe. If you’re a hiker (and the fit works for you), both the flexibility and the cushioning on these lightweight Hokas will bring you comfort on the trail,” she said. “Plus, because they are so cushioned and comfortable, they also make a great walking sandal.”