If your feet hurt just looking at someone wearing stilettos, you know you need comfortable walking sandals to survive this upcoming summer. From date nights to family barbecues, your tootsies deserve to look cute without sacrificing comfort.

Historically, sandals boasting arch support have gotten a bad rep in the style department. But gone are the days of sturdy shoes that look like they belong to your grandma. Comfortable sandals still need to have robust, rubberized soles, a cushioned footbed, soft uppers made of natural fabric or leather, and buckled ankle straps. Luckily, you don't need to sacrifice style to get all that.

Why do feet need arch support?

In a nutshell, the arches of your feet support your body weight while you stand. They also absorb shock every time your heels hit the ground and help propel you forward. So, it's safe to say they play a pretty important role in your life. Beyond your body's natural arches, arch supports are also devices placed into shoes to support the arch of your foot and reduce or eliminate foot pain, says podiatrist Anne Sharkey, MD.

And because we all have unique arches—with some higher or flatter than others—"each unique foot type can benefit from arch supports for different reasons," says Dr. Sharkey. "Those with flat feet will use arch supports for additional stability and support of joints as well as to alleviate muscle fatigue and stress that occurs. Those with high arches will experience achy feet due to poor shock absorption and can benefit significantly from arch support with cushioning."

What should I look for in sandals with arch support?

    With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to figure out which sandal features will benefit you best. But to start, comfort should always be your number one priority.

    Some sandals have more of an arch than others, which may or may not complement your foot type, says Dr. Sondema Tarr, MD, a board-certified podiatrist. Additionally, you want to look for a sandal with a firm footbed, instead of something soft and malleable, like memory foam.

    You also want a cushioned midsole for shock absorption. "A sandal should not be able to fold in half. If it can do that, put it back," says Dr. Sharkey. "A wider or deeper heel cup will also be beneficial as opposed to a hard and flat heel."

    Ready to shop? These 13 best comfortable walking sandals will work for anyone and go with practically everything in your closet. All you need now is a fresh pedicure, and you're good to go.

    1. Megnya Comfortable Walking Sandals

    MEGNYA Comfortable Hiking Sandals

    Comfortable Hiking Sandals

    MEGNYA Comfortable Hiking Sandals

    Now 36% Off
    $32 at Amazon
    Size range6-11
    MaterialsRubber, Nylon
    Available widthsN/A

    These sandals serve up summer camp nostalgia but with an adult-style flair, thanks to its hand-woven nylon cord upper. Plus, the sole is made of high-quality rubber that'll make you feel like you're walking on air with built-in arch support. Oh, and I did I mention these babies are water resistant? Because they are—and come in 22 colors. (So, if you wanna get a pair for every day of the week... you totally can.)


        2. MSTR Thicken Cushioned Flip Flops

        MSTR Womens Flip Flops

        Womens Flip Flops

        MSTR Womens Flip Flops

        Size range5.5-12
        MaterialsEthylene vinyl
        Available widths2.95 - 3.58 inches

        Nobody wants to be the person slip-sliding around in their flip-flops, which is what makes this option so appealing. With the anti-slip design, you can rest—and step!—easy knowing your feet will be gripped in and ready to take on all of your summer activities. Plus, the design balances pressure and reduces the stress on your feet.


        3. Birkenstock Sydney Sandals

        Birkenstock Sydney Sandal

        Sydney Sandal

        Birkenstock Sydney Sandal

        Size range5-10.5
        MaterialsFaux leather, Cork
        Available widthsMedium

        These aren't your weird hippie uncle's Birkenstocks. The latest updates to this iconic shoe marry serious style with best-in-class comfort. While classic Birkenstocks usually take several weeks to break in, the Sydney Sandals feature the brand's signature Soft Footbed technology.

        The perks: An extra layer of foam cushioning in between the cork and suede that provide immediate comfort, plus the contoured cork footbed supports all four arches of your foot and conforms to the exact shape of your foot over time. And did I mention it comes in three summer-ready colors?


        4. Franco Chazz Platform Sandal

        Thin Two Strap Heeled Slide Sandal

        Thin Two Strap Heeled Slide Sandal

        Thin Two Strap Heeled Slide Sandal

        Size range5-13
        MaterialsPolyurethane, Faux leather
        Available widthsN/A

        Don’t let the sleek design of these sandals fool you. This super chic heel—which comes in black, tan, and snakeskin—is perfect for a long day on your feet. The padded insole will make sure you stay comfy and out of pain all day long. And, you’ll look cute AF doing it.


          5. Teva Midform Infinity Sandal

            Teva Teva Midform Infinity Sandals

            Teva Midform Infinity Sandals

            Teva Teva Midform Infinity Sandals

            Size range6-10
            MaterialsEVA midsole, rubber outsole
            Available widthsN/A

            Gladiator-inspired design meets sporty-chic style in these sandals from beloved brand Teva. This pair comes in three neutral colors, features an open-toe style with adjustable bungee cords for optimal comfort, and even boasts a platform sole for added elevation.


            6. DREAM PAIRS Two Strap Sandals

            DREAM PAIRS Two-Strap Open Toe Sandals

            Two-Strap Open Toe Sandals

            DREAM PAIRS Two-Strap Open Toe Sandals

            Now 11% Off
            Size range5-11
            MaterialsLatex
            Available widthsN/A

            Have an upcoming wedding? These sandals are minimalist, while still supportive. (BTW, they come in black, nude, and clear too.) Best part: The thick latex insole, combined with their wear-anywhere style makes these sandals perfect for any occasion.

            Watch a hot doc explain why your feet are peeling:

            preview for Ask a Hot Doc: Why Are My Feet Peeling?

            7. Lunna Platform Ankle Strap Sandal

            MIA Lunna Platform Ankle Strap Sandal

             Lunna Platform Ankle Strap Sandal

            MIA Lunna Platform Ankle Strap Sandal

            Now 17% Off
            Size Range6-11
            MaterialsRubber, Synthetic rubber
            Available width7cm

            This comfy-cute sandal comes in several colors with a sporty white platform. The padded footbed will be easy on your soles, so the only hard part is deciding which shade to get. (Might wanna get a few pairs, just to be safe...)

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            8. Steve Madden Bandi Wedge Sandal

            Steve Madden Bandi Wedge Sandal

             Bandi Wedge Sandal

            Steve Madden Bandi Wedge Sandal

            Size range4-11
            MaterialCork
            Available width7.9cm

            Platform sandals are a must-have for summer, and the designs available on these Steve Madden ones will help add a little ~flare~ to your warm weather wardrobe. Not to mention, the easy on-off straps and cushioned footbed will ensure that your feet won't be screaming at you by the end of the day.


            9. Dr. Martens Blaire Sandal

            Dr. Martens Blaire Sandal

            Blaire Sandal

            Dr. Martens Blaire Sandal

            Size range5-11
            MaterialsLeather upper/synthetic and textile lining/synthetic sole
            Available widthsN/A

            Dr. Martens don't just make your favorite pair of combat boots, they've got super cute sandals now, too. The chunky oversized shoe look is a huge summer trend, and the classic air-cushioned outsole offers serious comfort and durability.


            10. FitFlop Lulu

            FitFlop Lulu Thong Sandals

            Lulu Thong Sandals

            FitFlop Lulu Thong Sandals

            Size range5-11
            MaterialsLeather
            Available widthsN/A

            Looking to upgrade your traditional summer flip flops? Try FitFlops. The slip-resistant rubber sole is perfect for rainy days, and a contoured footbed offers the arch support you need for a full day on your feet. Plus, this pair features "microwobbleboard technology," which the brand says reduces muscle activity so you can keep moving longer.


              11. Vionic Rest Sarah Slide Sandal

              Vionic Vionic Women's Rest Sarah Slide Sandals

              Vionic Women's Rest Sarah Slide Sandals

              Vionic Vionic Women's Rest Sarah Slide Sandals

              Now 50% Off
              Size range5-12
              MaterialsPolyurethane sole, Neoprene
              WidthN/A

              There's nothing better than an orthotic shoe fit for your grandmother that doesn’t look like it. And that is exactly what you are getting with these bad boys. Slip your toes into this podiatrist-designed footbed for ultimate comfort and style.


              12. Viakix Acadia Hiking Sandal

              Viakix Acadia Hiking Sandal

              Viakix Acadia Hiking Sandal

              Viakix Acadia Hiking Sandal

              Size range6-11
              MaterialsPU Leather, EVA foam
              Available widthsN/A

              The sandals are perfect for all the Sporty Spices out there ready to hit the hiking trails this summer. Just because you’re climbing mountains doesn’t mean you can’t look cute trekking to and from the lake. With lots of padding, straps to keep your feet locked in place, and six neutral color options, these are perfect for all your outdoor shenanigans.


              13. Skechers On-The-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal

              Skechers 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal

               600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal

              Skechers 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal

              Now 28% Off
              Size range5-12
              MaterialsRubber
              Available widths15cm

              The Skechers brand is known for maximum comfort, and that's just what you'll get from this sandal's Goga Max high rebound insole. Plus, the sporty-chic design comes in nine colors, all of which will keep your toes in place while you’re on the move this summer.

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              Lindsay Geller
              Lifestyle Director

              Lindsay Geller is the Lifestyle Director at Women’s Health, where she oversees the Life, Sex & Love, and Relationships sections on WomensHealthMag.com and the Mind section of Women's Health magazine. When she's not writing or editing articles about the latest dating trends and pop culture phenomenons, she's usually watching reality TV or playing with her dog, Lucille (Go Fetch That) Ball.

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              Carly Theder is the Fashion Assistant for the Hearst Fashion Group. Her love for clothing (and shoes) runs deep, and she is your go to girl for all things involving sustainable fashion!
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              Jacqueline Tempera is an award-winning writer and reporter living in New Jersey with her many pets. She is a business owner and a double Scorpio who loves all things astrology and reality television. She is passionate about body diversity and representation, mental health, and the fight to end sexual assault and harassment. To learn more about Jackie, follow her on Instagram @jacktemp or visit her website at jackietempera.com