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Step Into Your Comfort Zone With These Vibrant Summer Shoes

collage of sandals

Graphic by KCM

Without sacrificing comfort, of course.

It’s finally time to chuck your boots into seasonal storage and break out your footwear that may not have seen the light of day in months. As the weather warms up and we sink into summer, you can start to embrace lightweight, colorful styles and show off your pedicure. (But don’t let unpolished toenails keep you from freeing your feet.)

While the shoes you shopped for in spring can still work with summer sundresses, there’s always room for another pair or two, right? Sandals take up a lot less room in the closet than clunky booties…just sayin’. From cushioned wedges that will make your podiatrist proud to unexpected updates on minimalist flats, there’s a new shoe to fit every fancy. If all else fails, you can never go wrong with a fresh pair of white sneakers that can be worn year-round.

The options are endless, but here are the best, most comfortable summer shoes that deserve your attention.

Best Shoes for Summer 2024

Vionic Uptown Loafer

Vionic

Dressier than a sneaker but just as comfortable, a flexible loafer may become our new summer staple. These ones are particularly easy to slip on and off if you’re going through airport security en route to your vacation, and they even flatten down to take up minimal space in your bag if you choose not to wear them. Reviewers say they’re perfect to wear for long days of walking and exploring new places, and they don’t need to be broken in to enjoy.

$130 at Vionic

Castener Carina Wedges

Zappos

Consider these your new (garden) party shoes. Wedges feel like an homage to the ’60s and ’70s, but these modern ankle straps bring them into 2024. A bright white color will go with florals, denim, nautical stripes, or anything your heart desires. Plus, how welcoming does the cushion look on these? Despite the higher heel, you may find them more comfortable than your favorite flats. Katie loves this particular pair because they give her height without killing her feet. 

$140 at Zappos

Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Platform Sneakers

Amazon

We’re skeptical of any item that goes viral on TikTok — who deemed these random teens experts?! — but these shoes are worth the hype. People on the social media platform rave about how comfortable these classic sneakers are right out of the box, saying they don’t need to be broken in at all. A cushioned insole will support your feet with each step, and the shoe is lightweight so you won’t sweat a ton while wearing these in the summer heat.

$70 at Amazon

LifeStride Jordan Strappy Heeled Sandals

Zappos

Heeled sandals can leave you and your feet aching after a few minutes, but not if they have enough support and aren’t sky-high. Chunky heels make these ones extremely walkable, and they even have a cushioned sole to keep you and your arches happy. Reviewers say they’re excellent for dressy occasions when you don’t want to wear a pump or closed-toe shoe.

$60 at Zappos

Tory Burch Miller Sandal

Nordstrom

Flip flops are once again considered fashionable, and we’re here for it. These ones from Tory Burch are made from durable genuine leather, and the footbed is nicely padded to make walking in them a breeze. This summer, maximalism is in, which is why we gravitated to the bright lime green, but they come in a whopping 24 different colors if neon isn’t your cup of tea.

$198+ at Nordstrom

Crocs Tulum Sandals

Amazon

Believe it or not, these are Crocs — albeit not the clunky clog you most likely think of when seeing the brand name. Despite being made from the same material as the rubber slip-ons, these thin, adjustable straps are way more stylish. Reviewers say they’re extremely comfortable to walk in and easy to clean, too.

$29 at Amazon

Sam Edelman Regan Sandals

Zappos

‘Tis the season for stepping into your sandals and heading out the door, not for spending time bent over trying to lace up over-complicated shoes. Adjust the straps on this bedazzled pair once and you’ll be set forever. We love the texture of the raffia-covered straps, and the beads and buckle add interest to an otherwise simple sandal. These are the perfect option for dressing up a simple look without having to put in a ton of effort.

$98 at Zappos

Saks Off Fifth Sarena Bow Slingback Ballet Flat

Saks Off Fifth

A classic pair of ballet flats will last you long past the summer, especially if you get them in a neutral color like black. The slingback heel allows you to adjust the shoe to meet your needs, plus it offers more airflow than a regular flat that would cover your whole foot.

$90 at Saks Off Fifth

Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Nordstrom

Birkenstocks are a classic for a reason, and they aren’t going out of style anytime soon. The beloved Arizona double-strap sandal got a chic update, and they’re now available with metallic leather straps and matching hardware. It’s a subtle change, but it instantly elevates the once-crunchy summer shoe.

$140+ at Nordstrom

OOFOS OOMG Eezee Low Shoe

Oofos

No laces, no problems. These slip-ons are made from a stretchy, woven material that molds to your feet and keeps you securely inside the shoe. The plush sole is like walking on clouds, and it absorbs 37 percent more impact than regular shoes, so your knees will thank you. 

$130 at Oofos