After 2,000 Hours of Walking, We Found the Best Sandals for Wide Feet

Finding a pair of comfortable sandals can be challenging, especially if you have wide feet. Whether you're exploring a new city on foot, hiking your favorite trails, or getting your steps in, choosing comfortable and supportive shoes can make or break your next adventure. The best sandals for wide feet feature a wide toe box, adjustable straps, cushioned footbed, durable outsoles, and more. You should also look for breathable materials and a style to suit your personal look.

To find the best sandals for wide feet, we consulted experts to learn more about what key features to consider when shopping. We then researched dozens of pairs from top-rated brands, paying attention to durability, cushioning, and quality. Finally, we tested several pairs. We wore each sandal for multiple miles, evaluating it based on fit, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, comfort, value, and more. 

Top Picks

Best Overall:
Hoka Hopara 2 Sandals at Hoka.com $135
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Best for Long Distance Walks:
SALE
Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Men's Sandal at Amazon $110 $85
Jump to Review
Best for Plantar Fasciitis:
SALE
Ecco Yucatan Sandal at Amazon $140 $75
Jump to Review
Best for Recovery:
OOFOS Sport Flex Sandals at Amazon
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Best Budget for Women:
Skechers On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport Sandal at Amazon $50
Jump to Review
Best Budget for Men:
SALE
Skechers Gander Louden Sandal at Amazon $57 $35
Jump to Review
Best Adjustable:
Vionic Women's Amber at Amazon
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Best for Hiking:
SALE
KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals at Amazon $115 $86
Jump to Review
Most Comfortable:
Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandal at Zappos $124
Jump to Review
Best Waterproof:
Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal at Amazon
Jump to Review

Best Overall

Hoka Hopara 2 Sandals

Hoka Women's Hopara 2
Credit: Hoka
$135 at Hoka.com View on Googleadservices.com
Pros
  • Water repellent

  • Good airflow and drainage

  • Plush cushioning

Cons
  • Not very stylish

Key Specs:

Materials: Recycled knit, mesh upper, rubber midsole, rubber outsole Closure: Toggle lacing Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: Yes Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers that need a supportive sandal for long walks or hikes on varied terrain.

Why We Love Them

With a supportive, cushioned footbed and water repellent design, Hoka's Hopara 2 sandals are an easy choice for our best overall. These sandals fit and feel much like a sneaker, making them perfect for long walks and hikes. These sandals can handle water, mud, dirt, and sand. We tested the original Hopara sandals but the Hopara 2 has added a rip-resistant mesh overlay to keep sticks, rocks and debris out, and still maintain great airflow and drainage.

During testing, we found these sandals had solid arch support, stability, and shock absorption. They felt like we were walking on air. Our feet stayed in place inside the shoe, thanks to the toggle lacing. And the Hopara 2s have an added hook and loop strap around the heel to aide in an even more snug fit. The cushioning in these sandals helped us feel no knee or ankle pain, and they are responsive enough to feel like they helped propel us into each step. We loved the ample cushioning and sticky rubber outsole, making these sandals versatile enough for a variety of terrains.

Also available in men's sizes at Hoka.

Potential Flaws

  • Since these sandals resemble a sneaker, they're very supportive, but not very stylish.

Meet Our Testers

Both of our testers do a lot of walking in their daily routines, as well as hiking for fitness. They suffer with a neuroma, a bunion, and ongoing foot pain due to overuse. They both regularly look for supportive shoes that can accommodate inserts when needed, and can be worn all day.

Best for Long Distance Walks

Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Men's Sandal

Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Men's Sandal
Credit: Amazon
$110
$85 at Amazon
$110
$110 at Zappos
$110 at REI
Pros
  • Supportive contoured footbed

  • Excellent traction

  • Three adjustable straps

Cons
  • Not waterproof

Key Specs:

Materials: Recycled polyester, foam midsole, rubber outsole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: No Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who like to do long hiking or walking for fitness in warm weather and wet conditions.

Why We Love Them

Designed to handle the long hours and rough terrain of a warm weather hike, Teva’s Terra Fi 5 Universal Sandals are our top pick for long distance walks. These shoes feature a contoured footbed and a durable rubber outsole, to provide reliable stability, comfort, and traction as you walk. And we like that they dry quickly if they get wet so it's ok to wear them in wet weather or for water activities, like rafting.

When we tested these sandals, we found they had more than enough room for wide feet. Unlike some sandals, the Terra Fi lets you adjust the size in three different places of your foot, for the perfect fit. Additionally, we noticed that the straps were soft and padded, to prevent irritation. With a cushioned heel and a firm outsole, the sandals felt extremely comfortable and supportive underfoot, even as we walked on different surfaces. Whether you’re looking for a versatile sandal for traveling, hot weather hiking, or casual summer wear, we highly recommend the Terra Fi.

Also available in women's sizes at Teva.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals are not waterproof but the straps dry quickly if they do get wet.

Meet Our Testers

One of our testers walks throughout the day to run errands and to walk the dog plus occasional long walks and hikes. They have high arches so always look for shoes with plenty of support. Our other tester averages close to 10,000 steps a day and is on their feet a lot for work. They typically don't gravitate toward sandals but were drawn to these because of the great arch support that Tevas have, as well as the soft straps that don't cause blisters.

Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Men's Sandal

Verywell Fit

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Ecco Yucatan Sandal

ECCO Women's Yucatan Sandal
Credit: Amazon
$140
$75 at Amazon
$140
$140 at Zappos
$140 at Nordstrom
Pros
  • Lightweight but supportive

  • Secure, stable fit

  • Good traction

Cons
  • Not waterproof

Key Specs:

Materials: Nubuck leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: No Our Overall Rating: 4.49/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who need extra support for common foot ailments.

Why We Love Them

If you’re prone to painful plantar fasciitis, you need a supportive sandal with plush cushioning under the heel. Ecco’s Yucatan sandals are our top pick for their all-day comfort and support—plus, their open-toe design and adjustable straps make them ideal for wide feet. Thick foam padding absorbs shock but still feels lightweight while you walk. The contoured footbed distributes your weight and evens out pressure, which also helps prevent plantar fasciitis symptoms from returning.

We were impressed with the supportive cushioning when testing these sandals, especially in the heel and arch. They felt flexible in the right spots for comfortable walking, but we liked that they were also rigid enough to offer some stability. The durable rubber outsole provided exceptional traction and grip, which allowed us to move safely and confidently on all kinds of surfaces. Overall, we recommend the Yucatan if you have wide feet and a history of plantar fasciitis or other foot pain for its superior arch support and stellar shock absorption.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Ecco.

Potential Flaws

  • The soft, nubuck leather upper dries quickly if it gets wet, but these sandals are not waterproof.

Meet Our Testers

Both of our testers walk regularly for their daily routines, as well as several times a week for fitness. They both tend to prefer top-brand sneakers for most of their walking needs but were excited to try sandals that would make warm weather walking more comfortable. One of our testers has wide feet and is always on the lookout for comfortable shoes that can accommodate that.

Best for Recovery

OOFOS Sport Flex Sandals

OOFOS Sport Flex Sandals
Credit: Zappos
View on Amazon
$80
$64 at Zappos
$80 at Nordstrom
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Excellent shock absorption

  • Wide range of sizes

Cons
  • Expensive

  • No ankle strap

Key Specs:

Materials: Man-made upper Closure: Velcro strap Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: Yes Our Overall Rating: 4.75/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who need support after hard workouts or long days in uncomfortable shoes.

Why We Love Them

Designed to reinvigorate your feet after tough workouts, OOFOS’ Sport Flex are our favorite recovery sandals. We love that they’ve earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so you can be confident they’ll provide soothing relief. Their open-toe design and adjustable strap are very wide-feet-friendly. And we like that they're moisture- and odor-resistant, making them ideal for trips to the beach or pool. We also like that they're very easy to clean and super lightweight.

These sandals are made entirely from durable, impact-resistant foam that OOFOS has become known for. The footbed feels sturdy but springy, so your feet get the perfect blend of comfort and support after a long run or a hard session at the gym. We felt like they really hugged our feet, and when we wore them at our standing desk, they felt like an anti-fatigue mat in shoe form. The plush material delivers effective shock absorption, reducing stress on your knees and lower back. 

Also available in men's sizes at Oofos.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals are on the pricey side for slides.
  • Since these are a slide design, there's no ankle or heel strap to help them stay in place.

Meet Our Testers

Our tester participates in barre, Pilates, and strength training regularly and often feels leg and foot fatigue. She was curious about trying dedicated recovery shoes to help support her lower body after a tough workout.

Bonus Favorites

Although we didn't test the following sandals for wide feet, we still think they're a solid buy after thorough research. Each pair has quality materials and special features comparable to the sandals we personally tested.

Best Budget for Women

Skechers On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport Sandal

On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport Sandal
Credit: Amazon
$50 at Amazon
$58
$32 at Zappos
View on Shoemall.com
Pros
  • Secure, supportive fit

  • Machine-washable

  • Responsive cushioning

Cons
  • May not be as durable

Key Specs:

Materials: Mesh upper, rubber sole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers that need casual sandals for traveling or occasional wear.

Why We Love Them

Skechers' On-The-Go 600 Brilliancy Sport sandal has many features we love in high-end pairs, at a budget-friendly price. They’re lightweight, but still deliver a stable and secure fit for wide feet, thanks to a contoured footbed and three adjustable straps. Plus, they’re available in two widths and multiple colors. The upper straps are sturdy but soft so they don't cause any chafing or scratchiness.  

The sandals’ midsole is thick and responsive for a springy stride, while the padded back strap helps prevent blisters. Additionally, the rubber outsole is lightweight and features multi-directional traction to keep you feeling sure-footed. We also love that you can toss them in the washing machine after a long day, to keep them looking (and smelling) clean. While these sandals may be less durable than some others on our list, we think they’re a great value and a solid choice for casual or travel sandals.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers note that the sole tends to wear down quickly, especially after walking long distances on rough surfaces.

Best Budget for Men

Skechers Gander Louden Sandal

Skechers Men's Gander Louden Sandal
Credit: Amazon
$57
$35 at Amazon
$52
$48 at Zappos
View on Beallsflorida.com
Pros
  • Excellent traction

  • Sporty, rugged style

  • Plush memory foam footbed

Cons
  • Not waterproof

Key Specs:

Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber sole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Memory foam Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers that need a supportive sandal for occasional outdoor adventures.

Why We Love Them

High-quality sandals tend to be expensive. But there are still plenty of budget-friendly, dependable options, like Skechers’ Louden Sandal. With adjustable straps on the toe, instep, and heel, these sandals provide a secure and customizable fit for wide feet. We also like that they come in two widths, for additional room, if you need it. Ideal for outdoor adventures, the Louden offers the comfort and ventilation of a sandal, plus the support and stability of the best trail running shoes.

The pair’s textured rubber outsole will also help keep you steady on uneven terrain or in wet weather. We love the memory foam footbed, which provides all-day comfort and great shock absorption. And even the straps are memory foam cushioned for added comfort. These sandals feature a relaxed-fit design so they stay put and provide support without being tight or constricting.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals are a great choice for walking or hiking, but they're not waterproof.

Best Adjustable

Vionic Women's Amber

Vionic Women's Amber
Credit: Amazon
View on Amazon
$100
$61 at Zappos
View on Nordstrom
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Four adjustable straps

  • Great arch support

Cons
  • Not available in half sizes

Key Specs:

Materials: Cork upper, microfiber and foam midsole, rubber outsole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers who want a stylish and supportive sandal for work or special events.

Why We Love Them

With an orthotic footbed, great arch support, and lots of adjustability, Vionic’s Amber Sandals are comfortable and supportive, making them a stylish pick for everyday wear. And we’re not alone in our love for them—they’ve also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, meaning they help promote healthy feet. We like that the Amber is available in two widths, with four adjustable straps for a customized fit.

The heel strap keeps your feet locked in and secure, so you won’t fall out of your sandals while you're on the go. And a lightweight, flexible foam midsole delivers good support and shock absorption, reducing stress on your feet and joints. Designed with a cork upper, a soft, microfiber-wrapped footbed, and stylish accents, these sandals are both functional and easy to wear. The cork upper dries quickly, and the outsole provides plenty of traction if you do get caught in wet conditions.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals come in two widths but there are no half sizes available.

Best for Hiking

KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals

Amazon KEEN Whisper Closed Toe Sport Sandals
Credit: Amazon
$115
$86 at Amazon
$120
$78 at Zappos
$120 at Nordstrom
Pros
  • Secure fit

  • Simple bungee laces

  • Machine-washable

Cons
  • Not waterproof

Key Specs:

Materials: Polyester webbing, nylon mesh, rubber outsole Closure: Bungee lacing Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers that hike frequently in warm weather or wet terrain.

Why We Love Them

Keeping your feet cool and comfortable on the trails is easy with Keen's Whisper Sport sandals that are lightweight and supportive and perfect for hiking in warm weather. The sandals’ bungee lacing makes it easy to get in and out of them, and adjust the fit, for extra breathing room. A compression-molded foam midsole provides both cushioned comfort and good arch support.

Rugged and durable, these versatile sandals are ideal for active vacations. The polyester and nylon upper dries quickly, so they can be worn while kayaking and beach walking, in addition to hiking. We like the rubber outsole, which features multi-directional lugs for superior grip on slippery and wet terrains, while toe guards keep your feet safe from rocks, sticks, and debris. When you’re done hitting the trails, these sandals can be tossed in the washing machine, so they’ll stay clean and fresh for many hikes to come.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals dry quickly but they are not waterproof.

Most Comfortable

Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandal

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Leather Sandal
Credit: Birkenstock
$124 at Zappos $155 at REI View on Dicks Sporting Goods
Pros
  • Wide toe box

  • Great arch support

  • Adjustable straps

Cons
  • No ankle strap

  • Not waterproof

Key Specs:

Materials: Leather upper, cork footbed, foam outsole Closure: Adjustable straps with buckles Cushioning: Cork, foam Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers looking for a casual sandal for daily wear.

Why We Love Them

Birkenstock’s classic Arizona sandal is a time-tested favorite that’s stylish, supportive, and ultra-comfortable. We love the roomy toe box because it features a raised toe bar to keep your feet in the right position as you’re walking. The natural cork footbed is sustainable and durable, and ultra-soft on your feet. While the EVA outsole offers good shock absorption and stability, adding to the comfortable feel if you're on your feet all day.

There’s also plenty of built-in arch support, making the Arizona a solid choice if you have flat feet or plantar fasciitis (especially if you’re on your feet all day long). These sandals come in a wide range of sizes and have two adjustable straps for a customizable fit. These sandals come in unisex sizing and offer much more comfort and arch support than most slip-on sandals do, making them worth the investment.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals don't have a strap around the ankle or heel to help hold them in place.
  • Since they are made with leather and suede, they are not waterproof.

Best Waterproof

Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal

Teva Hurricane Drift
Credit: Zappos
View on Amazon $45 at Zappos $45 at Nordstrom
Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Lightweight

  • Reliable traction

Cons
  • May run large

Key Specs:

Materials: Foam, rubber outsole Closure: Velcro strap Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: Yes

Who They're For

Best for wearers that are frequently outdoors in water or wet conditions.

Why We Love Them

Teva’s Hurricane Drift sandals are fully waterproof and perfect for days at the beach, water park, or pool. Made from light and airy foam, we love that they have a durable rubber outsole with the traction and protection you need while walking in wet, uneven conditions. The hook and loop strap is easy to adjust, so you can change the fit as needed. Plus, the supportive, molded insole delivers cloud-like comfort with each step.

We also like that the Hurricane Drifts are budget-friendly, at less than half of the price of some other sandals on our list. They're also lightweight so you won't feel weighed down on your outdoor adventures. And they couldn’t be easier to clean—simply rinse them off after each outing. We like that they come in a wide range of fun and neutral shades, as well as unisex sizing, so you can choose the ones that best suit your style.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers report that they run large, so you may want to size down.

Best for Flat Feet

Orthofeet Paloma Camel Sandal

Orthofeet Paloma Camel Sandal
Credit: Amazon
View on Amazon View on Orthofeet.com
Pros
  • Responsive rocker design 

  • Built-in arch support

  • Soft fabric lining

Cons
  • May be too heavy for some

Key Specs:

Materials: Leather upper, fabric lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers with chronic foot pain that may need more support to maintain proper alignment.

Why We Love Them

With built-in arch support, Orthofeet’s Paloma Sandals will keep flat feet feeling comfortable for hours. They come in two widths and feature two adjustable straps, for a custom-like fit. The wide footbed is also ideal if you have bunions or arthritis, as it provides plenty of room for your toes to splay out without falling over the edge of the sandal. The whole sandal is designed to reduce foot pain and help maintain natural alignment as you walk.

The ergonomic soles feature a slight rocker design, which adds a little spring to your step. Multi-layered cushioning delivers pillow-like support and good impact protection for your feet, knees, hips, and lower back. They have subtle built-in arch support and even come with an arch booster that can be inserted under the footbed if you need more than the standard support. We also like the soft fabric lining, which prevents blisters and irritation. With a classic yet understated look, these sandals are a versatile addition to any warm-weather wardrobe.

Potential Flaws

  • All of the support and cushioning in these sandals adds some weight, making them a bit heftier than some others on our list.

Best for High Arches

Clarks Arla Kitly Step Sandal

Clarks Arla Kitly Step Sandal
Credit: Amazon
$100
$45 at Amazon
$110
$78 at Zappos
$100 at Nordstrom
Pros
  • Antimicrobial lining

  • Excellent arch support

  • Four adjustable straps

Cons
  • Not waterproof

  • No half sizes available

Key Specs:

Materials: Leather upper, leather and textile lining, suede footbed, synthetic insole, rubber outsole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Synthetic Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers that need plenty of arch support but still want a stylish design.

Why We Love Them

Clarks' Arla Kitly Step is a strappy, leather sandal featuring a contoured arch and cushioned footbed, offering the support that those with high arches need. Wide sizes and four adjustable straps also make them one of our favorites for wide feet. Having straps on the top of the foot as well as around the ankle is key to getting a fit that’s not too tight or loose, according to Eric Bjorkman, PT, MPT, CO, a physical therapist and owner of FYZICAL in Lincoln, Nebraska.

These sandals have an antimicrobial suede lining that feels soft underfoot and helps keep your feet dry and fresh. The built in arch support gives you the cushion and structure you need under your arch. We like that they’re comfortable, but also stylish enough to wear almost anywhere. With seven colors to choose from, you can easily find a pair that suits your style.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals are not waterproof, thanks to the suede and leather materials.
  • They have plenty of adjustability with the straps but are not available in half sizes.

Best for Bunions

New Balance 250 Adjustable Sandals

New Balance 250 Adjustable Sandals
Credit: Amazon
View on Amazon
Pros
  • Comfortable cushioning

  • Available in three widths

  • Unisex sizing

Cons
  • May lack enough arch support

Key Specs:

Materials: Nylon, rubber Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: Yes

Who They're For

Best for wearers who need roomy sandals to support painful foot ailments.

Why We Love Them

New Balance’s 250 Adjustable Sandals are our top pick if you have bunions—those bumps that form when the bones in your feet aren’t aligned correctly. With two Velcro straps, these sandals can be adjusted so they won’t be too tight, which can irritate bunions and cause pain or discomfort. Brian Mills, PT, DPT, a physical therapist with Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy in Louisville, Kentucky, likes that New Balance’s sandals, similar to their running and walking shoes, come in extended widths, so you can get a precise fit.

The foam footbed provides sturdy, cushioned comfort, while the rubber outsole offers excellent traction to keep you steady on all types of surfaces. The 250 sandal is also a nice compromise between athletic-looking sandals and casual leather ones, making them a great option for travel. Comfortable, lightweight, and breathable, and offered in unisex sizing, we recommend them whether you’re hiking around the lake or strolling down the beach.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers have found these sandals don’t have as much arch support as some others on our list.

Best for Every Day

SAS Nudu Sandals

SAS Nudu Sandals
Credit: Amazon
$159
$128 at Amazon
$159 at Zappos View on Sasnola.com
Pros
  • Wide range of colors and styles

  • Great support and shock absorption

  • Available in five widths

Cons
  • Expensive

Key Specs:

Materials: Leather and fabric upper, suede footbed, synthetic outsole Closure: Velcro, buckle straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: No

Who They're For

Best for wearers who need a versatile sandal for daily activities and need a range of width options.

Why We Love Them

If a shoe brand offers extended widths, like narrow, medium, wide, or extra-wide options, it’s safe to assume that they ensure their sandals fit properly, according to Bjorkman. So you can feel confident about getting the right size with SAS’ Nudu Strap Sandals, which come in five different widths. They’re well-cushioned for all-day comfort and feature three adjustable straps that allow for a custom fit around your forefoot, ankle, and heel.

With a leather upper, they’re soft and supportive for walking, shopping, or sightseeing. The slingback strap keeps the Nudu sandals securely on, preventing your feet from sliding around. Meanwhile, the contoured footbed has layers of padding that mold to your foot shape for maximum comfort, support, and shock absorption. The 1-inch heel is low and shaped to help you roll through your stride, preventing fatigue. And we like that you can choose from over 10 colors and patterns to suit all your wardrobe needs.

Potential Flaws

  • These sandals are one of the most expensive pairs on our list.

Best for the Beach

Reef Water Vista Sandals

Amazon Reef Water Vista Sandals
Credit: Amazon
$60
$49 at Amazon
$65
$59 at Zappos
$65 at Nordstrom
Pros
  • Lightweight

  • Waterproof

  • Stylish design

Cons
  • May be too short for some

Key Specs:

Materials: Polyurethane straps, synthetic upper, insole, and lining, foam footbed, synthetic outsole Closure: Velcro straps Cushioning: Foam Waterproof: Yes

Who They're For

Best for wearers who live at or frequent the beach and need a secure sandal for walking in sand.

Why We Love Them

Reef's Water Vista sandals are our top pick for days at the beach, thanks to their comfortable foam cushioning, waterproof construction, and adjustable heel strap. They also feature a compression-molded footbed and outsole for excellent comfort and support. They're also lightweight so you won't be weighed down walking in the sand and surf. They don’t come in wide sizes, but the adjustable straps can accommodate most foot shapes and sizes.

These casual, slingback sandals come with a Velcro heel strap, which keeps them securely on your feet as you’re walking along the shore. And once you head home from the beach, they’re easy to rinse off and quick to dry, so they’re ready to go for next time. We love that these sandals are available in a wide range of fun and neutral colors. Their attractive style and espadrille-inspired texture make them a casual go-to.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers note these sandals are on the shorter side, so take that into account when sizing.

What to Look for When Shopping for Sandals for Wide Feet

  • Fit and Comfort: When wearing a sandal that fits properly, your heel should sit into the heel cup and your toes shouldn’t hang over the front. No matter what size your feet or shoes are, you should be able to see the edge of the sole all the way around the sandal, Bjorkman says. When it comes to open-toe sandals, there should be about half a thumb’s width of space from the end of your toe to the front of the sandal, according to Marcia Graddon, PT, physical therapist, certified prosthetist, and athletic trainer with The Centers For Advanced Orthopaedics in Arlington, Virginia. For optimal comfort, look for sandals that are cushioned, with good arch support, and an upper made from smooth, soft materials. Adjustable, padded straps will also make it easy to wear your sandals for long periods of time.
  • Purpose: When shopping for sandals, consider when and where you’ll be wearing them. Are they for hiking, traveling, commuting, or just everyday wear? For hiking and lots of walking, look for sandals that have closed toes, are supportive, grippy, and stable to keep your feet in place. Sandals for relaxing at home or the beach don’t have to be as cushioned, but should still have the right fit and support to avoid pain and irritation.
  • Support: Supportive sandals should provide arch, heel, and ball of foot protection, according to Timothy Miller, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts in Orlando, Florida. When shopping, keep your foot type in mind, since that will determine how much arch support you need, he says. For instance, if you have flat feet or foot pain like plantar fasciitis, look for sandals with built-in arch support and contoured footbeds. Adjustable straps, particularly ones around the ankle, will provide even more stability.
  • Heel Lift: Look for sandals with a heel height of one inch or less, which will be the most comfortable for long periods of wear. A slightly elevated heel also raises your arches and takes pressure off your plantar fascia while you’re walking, a huge benefit for those with flat feet or plantar fasciitis.
  • Durability: When shopping for sandals, look for durable materials, like leather and rubber. Not only will they last longer, but they’ll also provide better traction. If you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking and other outdoor activities, it’s even more important that you select a pair built to last. Try the sandals on before buying, if possible, to get a feel for how high-quality the construction is.

How We Selected and Tested the Sandals for Wide Feet

To find the best sandals for wide feet, we researched dozens of options from top-rated brands and also wear-tested four pairs in our regular daily routines. During our research we look for sandals made with quality materials that have wide toe boxes and cushioned footbeds. For the sandals we tested, we assess them based on the following criteria.

  • Fit: After putting the sandals on, we note if they fit as expected in our usual size. We note any tight spots, or if our toes are hanging off the end. We also note if they are loose enough to cause our feet to slide around.
  • Stability: While we wear the sandals and walk around in them, we note if we feel any ankle or knee instability. Do we feel our heel is secure? Does the stable feeling change when we walk on different surfaces? Do the soles feel grippy and provide good traction?
  • Responsiveness: To assess the responsiveness of each sandal, while walking in them, we ask things like: Is the sandal helping propel us forward? Does it feel springy and bouncy when we push off? Do our transitions to each step feel quick and seamless? We prioritize sandals that have some shock absorption and help our legs feel less fatigued after wearing them.
  • Cushioning: For each pair of sandals, we note if the padding is thick or thin, and firm or pillow-like. We also note if there is additional cushioning in the arch or heel, and if the straps are also padded. As we continue to wear the sandals for testing, we evaluate if the cushioning holds up over time.
  • Comfort: Comfort may be different for each wearer but we look for key items to determine the general comfort of each pair of sandals. Do they make us feel like we're walking on air, or do we feel weighed down? Do we note any pressure points or irritating seams or buckles? Are the sandals breathable or do our feet get sweaty?
  • Quality: We check for quality by noting if the sandals are made with high-quality materials and if they feel sturdy and durable rather than flimsy and cheap. We also perform a bend test to see if the sandal flexes properly under the ball of the foot. After wearing the sandals for the testing period, we note if there is any wear and tear, or if they develop any odors. We also note if buckles and straps hold up well over time.
  • Overall Value: To determine the value of each pair of sandals, at the end of the testing period, we look at the price of each pair after rating all the other categories. Based on our experience, do we think the sandals are priced fairly? Would we only buy them if they were on sale? Would we recommend them to friends and family?

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage while researching and testing for this story. They helped us understand what makes a quality sandal and how to tell if a sandal is supportive and stable. They also helped us refine the list of features to look for when shopping for sandals for wide feet.

  • Eric Bjorkman, PT, MPT, CO, a physical therapist and owner of FYZICAL in Lincoln, Nebraska
  • Marcia Graddon, PT, a physical therapist, certified prosthetist, and athletic trainer with The Centers For Advanced Orthopaedics in Arlington, Virginia
  • Timothy Miller, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts in Orlando, Florida
  • Brian Mills, PT, DPT, a physical therapist with Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy in Louisville, Kentucky
  • Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, Podiatric Surgery Specialist

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sandals should you wear if you have wide feet?

When selecting sandals for wide feet, look for styles that offer a roomy toe box and adjustable straps, Mills says. Additionally, opt for sandals with plenty of cushioning and great arch support to provide comfort and stability for your wide feet, he says.

What sandals should you avoid with wide feet?

If your foot is hanging over the sandal, it could eventually lead to pain and injuries, according to Mills. In general, most flip flops don’t have enough support or cushioning, especially for walking long distances, and if you wear flimsy, flat sandals for extended periods of time, you’ll put unneeded stress on your feet and joints.

Should sandals fit bigger or smaller?

Sandals should provide a close fit—they shouldn’t feel too loose or too tight. To find the best fit, choose sandals that come in a range of widths with adjustable straps, so they’ll contour to your foot shape and size, recommends Graddon.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a Verywell Fit writer with more than 20 years of experience with health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing athletic shoes and fitness gear. She knows how important it is to find sandals that fit correctly in order to avoid injuries and irritation. She reviewed testing insights to help compile the picks for this list.

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3 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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