10 Chic Walking Sandals You’ll Want For Every Summer Getaway
Summer adventures call for footwear that can keep up with your wanderlust while still looking fabulous.
Nothing ruins a vacation faster than painful blisters or aching feet from shoes that weren’t made for exploring.
I’ve spent countless hours hunting down sandals that marry style and comfort after one too many trips spent limping back to my hotel.
These ten walking sandals have become my go-to recommendations for friends planning their warm-weather escapes.
1. Leather Crossover Stunners
The moment I slipped these crossover leather beauties onto my feet, I knew my summer footwear game had changed forever. The buttery-soft leather straps mold to your feet within days, creating a custom fit that feels made just for you.
What makes these standouts in my travel collection is their incredible versatility. I’ve worn mine from cobblestone streets in Rome to beachside restaurants without missing a beat or getting a single blister.
The cushioned footbed absorbs shock while walking, and the minimal heel elevation provides just enough lift without sacrificing stability. Available in neutral tones like camel, black, and white, they’ll complement virtually everything in your vacation wardrobe.
2. Cushioned Platform Espadrilles
Platform espadrilles have rescued my feet on countless city explorations. The elevated sole creates distance between sensitive feet and hot pavement while the woven jute material screams ‘summer escape’ with every step.
My favorite pair features a memory foam insole that’s changed how I feel about all-day walking tours. Unlike traditional espadrilles that can feel stiff, these modern versions incorporate athletic shoe technology with adjustable ankle straps for security.
Surprisingly lightweight despite their substantial appearance, they’re perfect for those who want height without sacrificing comfort. I pack these for trips where I’ll be transitioning from daytime sightseeing to casual evening dinners, as they dress up a simple sundress effortlessly.
3. Strappy Flat Gladiators
Gladiator sandals never truly exit the fashion scene, but the latest walking-friendly versions have improved dramatically. Gone are the days of stiff leather cutting into ankles—modern gladiators feature soft, flexible straps that stay put without causing friction.
I recently wore a pair throughout a week-long Greek island adventure. The multiple straps provided surprising stability when navigating uneven terrain, while the completely flat sole kept me balanced on slippery marble steps.
Look for styles with zip-back closures to save time and frustration. The best ones incorporate small elastic sections in strategic places, allowing your foot to move naturally while walking. For maximum versatility, metallic finishes in bronze or silver complement both neutrals and bright summer colors beautifully.
4. Buckle-Strap Comfort Walkers
Buckle-strap sandals have become my secret weapon for mixing practicality with polish. The adjustable straps solve the common problem of feet swelling in hot weather or after long walking days, something I discovered the hard way during a sweltering Barcelona trip.
Premium versions feature anatomically contoured footbeds that support your arches and distribute weight evenly. The subtle rocker sole design propels you forward with each step, reducing fatigue when covering serious mileage.
Many travel experts recommend these for their durability—quality pairs can last through multiple summer seasons without losing their supportive structure. I particularly appreciate styles with microfiber linings that prevent the dreaded sweaty-foot slide that happens with some leather footbeds.
5. Minimalist Slide Sandals
Don’t underestimate the humble slide sandal when planning your summer packing list. Modern minimalist slides have evolved far beyond basic pool shoes into sophisticated options that work for multiple occasions.
The key is finding slides with hidden comfort features. My go-to pair looks deceptively simple but includes a molded footbed with metatarsal support and heel cup that keeps feet aligned properly while walking.
For travelers concerned about packability, slides are unbeatable—they lay flat in luggage and weigh next to nothing. I’ve found leather versions with subtle padding wear in beautifully over time, developing a personalized fit. Choose a clean design in a signature color like olive green or burgundy rather than basic black for a distinctive touch that elevates casual outfits.
6. Sporty Velcro Trekkers
Sporty sandals have undergone a serious style upgrade in recent years. Forget the clunky, tourist-screaming designs of the past—today’s athletic walking sandals feature sleek profiles and fashion-forward color combinations while maintaining their technical performance.
The quick-adjust Velcro straps make these my pick for adventure-heavy itineraries. I can tighten them for a hike through uneven terrain, then loosen slightly when my feet expand in the afternoon heat.
Water-friendly materials dry quickly after unexpected rain showers or beach walks, eliminating the soggy sandal syndrome. Many newer models incorporate antimicrobial treatments too—a game-changer for preventing odor during hot weather travels. For maximum versatility, look for monochromatic designs in navy, olive, or burgundy rather than sporty neons.
7. Slingback Walking Wonders
Slingback sandals strike the perfect balance between security and breathability for summer travels. The back strap keeps them firmly attached to your feet while leaving toes and insteps free—a blessing during sweltering sightseeing days.
After discovering the magic of elasticized slingbacks during a walking tour of Charleston, I never travel without a pair. The slight give in the strap accommodates natural foot swelling without creating pressure points or requiring adjustment throughout the day.
The most versatile styles feature a modest 1-inch block heel that provides just enough elevation for dresses while remaining stable on uneven surfaces. Cork-infused footbeds mold to your unique foot shape over time, creating custom-feeling support. For maximum packability, look for foldable designs with soft leather uppers.
8. Padded T-Strap Treasures
T-strap sandals have saved my summer wardrobe countless times with their foot-flattering design and surprising stability. The vertical strap running from toe to ankle creates visual length while providing crucial structure that prevents feet from sliding forward.
My most-packed pair features hidden padding beneath soft leather straps—a detail that prevents the dreaded between-toe irritation that ruins many vacations. The cushioned footbed compresses just enough to absorb impact without feeling spongy or unstable.
Metallic finishes in rose gold or pewter elevate these practical sandals into evening-appropriate territory. I’ve worn mine from morning museum visits straight to dinner without a second thought. For maximum comfort, look for styles with tiny elastic inserts at the ankle strap and a slightly contoured footbed rather than completely flat designs.
9. Braided Leather Flats
Braided leather sandals channel Mediterranean vacation vibes while offering surprising durability for serious walking. Hand-woven leather strips create natural ventilation and flexibility that conventional cut-out designs can’t match.
On a recent trip to Portugal, my braided flats handled everything from beach walks to city explorations without a single blister. The woven texture creates natural flex points that move with your foot rather than fighting against it.
Quality versions feature leather that softens and darkens beautifully with wear, developing a rich patina that tells the story of your travels. The most comfortable designs incorporate a lightly padded heel cup and metatarsal support beneath their artisanal appearance. Natural leather tones like cognac or olive work with virtually everything in a summer wardrobe.
10. Wedge Sandals with Ankle Support
Wedge sandals solve the eternal vacation dilemma of wanting height without sacrificing walkability. Modern walking wedges feature lower, steadier platforms than their fashion-focused cousins, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
The ankle support design element transforms these from occasional shoes to all-day companions. I’ve tested numerous pairs and found that adjustable ankle straps prevent the wobbly feeling often associated with wedges while providing crucial stability on cobblestones and uneven surfaces.
Cork-based wedges offer the ideal combination of lightness and shock absorption—they won’t weigh down your suitcase or your feet. For maximum comfort, look for styles with cushioned insoles and microfiber linings that prevent slipping when temperatures rise. Neutral suede versions dress up or down effortlessly.