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. The sun is out, the days are longer, and it’s officially time to let your toes see the light of day — even if your last pedicure is a distant memory. (No judgment. Paint ‘em or don’t —we’re all about foot freedom here.)
Sure, the shoes you scooped up last year might still do the trick, but let’s be honest: there’s always room for one more pair. Or two. Or… listen, we’re not here to judge your closet capacity. And unlike winter boots, sandals don’t hog precious space, which is how we justify buying more than one pair at a time.
From cushioned wedges your podiatrist would give a standing ovation to, to sleek, wear-them-anywhere sneakers, the summer shoe game is strong this season. Whether you’re beach-bound, city-strolling, or just making a coffee run look stylish, we’ve got you (and your soles) covered.
The options are endless, but here are the best, most comfortable summer shoes worth stepping into right now.
Best Shoes for Summer 2025
SOREL Joanie IV Y-Strap Sandals
Zappos
If there’s ever been a glowing review of a wedge, it’s this: Wearers say they can keep these on all day without fantasizing about hurling them across the room. High praise, indeed.
This pair from SOREL delivers on both cushion and practicality, with a chunky sole that’s easy to walk in, secure velcro ankle straps (no fiddly buckles), and extra traction on the bottom to keep you steady on your feet. There are six colors to choose from, too.
Rothy’s Slide Sandals
Rothy’s
Slides are the MVP of travel footwear because they take up almost no space in your suitcase and slip on in a snap. This pair from Rothy’s takes it a step further: They’re machine-washable and made from recycled water bottles. Lightweight, low-maintenance, and sustainable.
Clarks Leather T-Strap Sandals
QVC
Summer weddings are so much fun — until your heels are an inch deep in the grass and you’re not quite sure how to get them out gracefully. To avoid slowly sinking into the Earth’s crust during the cocktail hour, opt for a pair of chunky heels that will not only keep you above ground but painless all night long. These ones from Clarks come in four different colors, and the footbed has so much cushion we’re tempted to take a nap on it.
Merrell Terran 4 Sandals
Merrell
Flimsy flat sandals look cute, but they can turn a carefree summer day into a footache fast. Made by the same brand behind some of the best hiking boots out there, these Merrell sandals combine trail-tested support with everyday wearability.With serious arch support, a cloud-like sole, and grippy traction for any surface (from boardwalks to rocky trails), they’re basically adventure-ready sandals. Adjustable straps let you fine-tune the fit, and reviewers rave about how easy they are to slip on and off.
Birkenstock Arizona Essentials Waterproof Sandal
Nordstrom Rack
You can’t wear every pair of sandals to the beach, but that doesn’t mean you have to opt for rubber flip flops as your only oceanside shoe of choice. These Birkenstocks offer the same contoured footbed as the classic leather pair, but in a flexible, rubber-like material that’s beach-ready and easy to rinse. They also float, so if the tide sneaks up on you during a beach nap, you won’t lose them forever to the bottom of the ocean.
Lucky Brand Trianna Sandals
Zappos
In our book, metallics are basically a neutral, which is why we’re loving this bronze-hued pair of wedges. They add just the right touch of shine and pair effortlessly with shorts, skirts, and breezy summer dresses. The low heel makes them easy to walk in, but still gives you that subtle lift if you’re after a little extra height. Not into the shimmer? They also come in black, orange, brown, and yellow.
Tory Burch Miller Cloud Sandals
Tory Burch
Flip-flops have officially graduated from beach-only staple to socially acceptable, and honestly, we’re thrilled. This sleek pair from Tory Burch proves that the casual classic cleans up nicely. Made from durable genuine leather with a molded footbed, they’re as comfy as they are polished, making them ideal for everything from poolside lounging to impromptu lunch dates.
A quick heads-up from the reviews, though: They do run a little wide, so if your feet lean narrow, consider sizing down half a size for the best fit.
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 2025. A bright white color will go with florals, denim, nautical stripes, or anything your heart desires. That cushy insole is basically an open invitation for all-day wear. Katie swears by this pair — they give her a little lift without leaving her feet begging for mercy.
Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Platform Sneakers
Zappos
We’re usually wary of anything TikTok declares a must-have. No offense to Gen Z, but since when did high schoolers become our shopping gurus? That said, every now and then, the algorithm actually gets it right.
Case in point: these classic sneakers. They’ve racked up serious buzz for being unbelievably wearable straight out of the box — no awkward break-in period, no blisters, no regrets. With an insole that supports your every step and a lightweight design that keeps things cool even in peak summer heat, they’re the rare viral find that lives up to the hype.
Anonymous Copenhagen Lain Flats
Anonymous Copenhagen
According to Pinterest’s 2025 trend forecast, the “fisherman aesthetic” is reeling in major style points this summer. Knowing this, we’ve been on the hunt for a pair of leather fisherman sandals that don’t scream “retired mariner,” but rather Monica Bellucci sipping espresso on the Amalfi Coast. This effortlessly elegant pair from Anonymous Copenhagen immediately checked all the boxes: sleek leather straps, a minimalist silhouette, and a sustainable construction, these sandals strike the perfect balance between laid-back and luxe.
ALOHAS Sway Ballet Flats
ALOHAS
After the revival of the ballet flat last year, plenty of riffs on the classic shoe have come and gone. This pair from ALOHAS keeps the soft, glove-like feel you love in a classic ballet flat, but swaps the traditional rounded silhouette for something a bit more architectural. The sleek V-shaped vamp adds polish, while the leather ties serve both function and flair. Even better? It’s crafted from sustainably sourced leather, so your conscience can feel as good as your feet. With eight chic color options, you might just be tempted to start a little ballet flat repertoire of your own.
