When temperatures climb, sandals feel like freedom. But too-flat, floppy soles can leave you with sore arches and tired calves by lunchtime.
Supportive sandals bridge that gap, giving you airflow and freedom without losing the structure your feet rely on.
For people who wear orthotics in winter, summer can be tricky.
Open shoes and sandals are available that take inserts. Another option to increase your choice is to look for styles with built-in support, particularly if you need something dressy for an occasion. The best sandals for comfort keep your foot aligned, prevent strain through the knees and hips, and still looks effortless on holiday.
Here are our tips to help you choose summer sandals with support that feel as stable as your closed shoes.
How Arch Support Shapes All-Day Comfort
The arch is the bridge that holds your foot together. Without support, the bridge collapses and your heel, ankle, and knees pay for it.
A sandal with contour under the arch spreads weight evenly and stops the heel from rolling inward. You don’t need rigid plastic; gentle shaping built into the footbed works best.
Fit specs to check:
- Contoured footbed: you want a visible rise through the arch, not a flat slab.
- Removable insole: if you want to use your own orthotics.
- Firm midsole: look for footwear that bends at the toes, not the middle.
- Heel rise: about 6–12 mm from heel to toe is common.
That small elevation eases pull on the Achilles tendon and will help keep your posture upright during long walks.
Heel Rise, Heel Cup, and Midfoot Stability
Flat sandals may look simple, but they can tip your heel side-to-side. A deep heel cup prevents that wobble. It cradles the heel bone. So, it stays centred, even when you’re walking on uneven ground or sand.
A few quick checks in-store:
- Squeeze the heel counter. It should feel firm, not floppy.
- Press the arch. It shouldn’t cave under pressure.
- Try the bend test. The shoe should flex near the toes, nowhere else.
These clues separate genuinely supportive sandals from fashion slides.
How To Spot Unsupportive Sandals Before You Buy
A few quick checks can save you from sore arches later. When you pick up a sandal, give it three simple tests:
Twist Test
Hold the heel in one hand and the forefoot in the other. It should resist twisting through the middle. Too much give means weak midfoot support.
Bend Test
Fold the sandal gently; it should flex near the toes, not across the arch. Do not force the bend as you may damage the shoe. They often have stiffeners built in to the back half of the shoe that can be broken.
Weight Check
Light is fine. But if it feels flimsy or floppy, it probably won’t protect your joints.
Watch for very thin soles and loose slingback straps. Both features can throw off balance and cause toe gripping.
If you’re shopping online, zoom in on the side view: a visible heel cup and slight contour in the arch are signs of real structure.
Sole Materials That Balance Cushion and Control
Soft isn’t always better. Too much give can strain the plantar fascia; too little can bruise your heels. The best sandals for comfort can often use dual-density soles. These are firm at the base for stability and cushioned on top for softness.
- EVA midsoles absorb shock yet stay light.
- Rubber outsoles add grip on wet pavements.
- Textured footbeds can reduce sliding when your feet get warm.
If you spend hours standing or sightseeing, test how the sole rebounds after each step. In a better quality shoe the cushioning will rebound rather than holding your foot shape.
Straps, Width, and Toe Room
Even the most supportive sandals fail if the fit’s off. Loose straps can make your toes grip with every step, leading to fatigue. Too-tight straps can cut across tendons.
Quick fit guide:
- The foot should sit inside the sole’s edge without spilling over. That includes front and back length.
- Adjustable straps over the instep and around the ankle add security.
- Look for a roomy toe box so the forefoot can spread naturally.
Practical Ways To Pick and Care for Your Pair
After purchase:
Alternate pairs to let materials dry and rebound.
Wipe footbeds weekly with mild soap and water to prevent odour. Antibacterial wipes can work. This can darken the colour of the footbed.
Check straps and buckles every few months; clean out Velcro for a firm hold.
Even quality sandals will compress and lose their shape with regular wear. How long they last will be different for each wearer. Factors like gait, shape, orthotics, distance and terrain will have an impact. If you notice new aches or the sole starting to tilt, it’s time to replace them. Rotating two pairs spreads the load and helps each recover its shape.
When comfort changes, it’s often the cushioning or heel cup losing structure. This is a good cue to refresh your pair before pain sets in.
Support and style can coexist. You don’t have to trade one for the other. This summer, choose sandals that keep your arches supported, your heels steady, and your stride relaxed. Whether you’re walking the esplanade or chasing kids through the park.
Forbes Footwear stocks orthotic-friendly styles from trusted brands that balance comfort and design. Visit the Hornsby showroom for a professional fitting, or browse Forbes Footwear online for brands like Naot, Klouds, and Cabello. Supportive sandals can look good and feel right all day.