By this point in the summer, you've probably determined what shoes live by the front door for easy access — and which ones can remain in the closet, reserved for seated dinners, not boardwalk strolls. Whether you're logging miles on vacation, spending weekends in the garden, or simply trying to survive another sweltering day, comfortable shoes are a necessity. If you're figuring it out, though, we can help you navigate.
Fortunately, brands have gotten much better at blending comfort with style. Today's supportive sandals, lightweight sneakers, and polished flats are designed to go the distance without looking like they were podiatrist-prescribed.
To help narrow the field, we've rounded up the most comfortable summer shoes that are actually worth wearing for the rest of the season and well into the next.
Best Summer Shoes and Sandals for Women 2026
Naturalizer Carla Flats
Zappos
Katie recently added a pair of cow print flats to her summer shoe rotation, and while the exact pair she has is out of stock, these are nearly identical. The calf hair material adds texture to any outfit, and the slightly higher vamp helps keep feet in place, so you won't end up accidentally stepping out of the flats and onto the hot pavement.
Clarks Cloudsteppers Slide Sandals
QVC
When packing space is at a premium, picking a shoe that can play multiple roles is crucial. The platform doesn't impact comfort — in fact, it creates support while making them evening-appropriate. And they're affordable enough to buy in multiple colors. The adjustable straps allow for a custom fit while also keeping your feet securely in place, and the thick soles add height without the precariousness of a heel.*
Tory Burch Miller Cloud Sandals
Tory Burch
Flip-flops have officially graduated from beach-only to social event acceptable, and we're thrilled. This sleek pair from Tory Burch proves that the casual classic cleans up nicely. Made from durable EVA 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.
Rothy's Penny Clogs
Rothy's
Think of it as the footwear equivalent of a mullet: business in the front, party in the back. This backless Rothy's clog combines the timeless look of a penny loafer with the convenience of a mule, making it an easy choice when you want to look put-together without fussing over your shoes. Even better? They're machine washable, so a little wear and tear is no reason to retire them.
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 padding and practicality, with a plump 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 three colors to choose from, too.
G.H. Bass Whitney Weejuns Loafers
G.H. Bass
One of our editors put these G.H. Bass loafers through a travel test most shoes wouldn't survive: several days of walking more than 20,000 steps around Japan. They held up beautifully, they didn't cause blisters, and the classic silhouette makes them just as appropriate to wear with a sundress as with shorts and scrunched socks.
KEEN Jasper Sneakers
KEEN
Inspired by the minimal design of climbing shoes and infused with the extreme comfort KEEN is known for, the Jasper sneaker has become the chosen shoe of city dwellers who want to appear as though they spend the weekend in a climbing gym. The shoes come with two sets of laces (one solid-colored and the other patterned) so you can switch up the look every now and again, and reviewers love how lightweight they are.
Margaux Deia Sandal
Margaux
An elevated take on the classic thong sandal, these wide-strapped flip-flops retain the comfort of the slip on shoe without the beach bum look. These are certainly on the pricey side, but they're made from buttery soft Napa leather that's meant to last decades, not seasons. Reviewers say they're incredibly comfortable and cushioned despite the thin profile, however some suggest ordering a half size up for ample space in the heel area.
New Balance 327s
Nordstrom
If you've noticed retro-inspired runners everywhere lately, you're not imagining it. Katie's latest favorite sneaker leans into the throwback trend with a suede overlay and a narrow silhouette, but the wrap-around rubber sole adds a modern touch.
Clarks Jaylan Sol Leather Heel Sandals
Clarks
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 also painless all night long. These ones from Clarks come in three different colors, and the footbed has so much fluff we're tempted to use it as a pillow.
Birkenstock Big Buckle Arizona Sandals
Nordstrom
Birkenstocks have a devout following for a reason: They mold to your feet the more you wear them, and the simple, two-strap design is timeless. In an updated take on the classic Arizona sandal, these have larger statement buckles, providing a fresh twist on the otherwise crunchy sandal.
ALOHAS Sway Ballet Flats
ALOHAS
After the revival of the ballet flat, plenty of riffs on the classic shoe have come and gone. This pair from ALOHAS keeps the soft, glove-like feel you love, 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 16 chic color options, you might just be tempted to start a little ballet flat repertoire.
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 — a description all apparel and accessories should aspire to.
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 flimsy rubber flip flops that you'll be tripping over on the boardwalk. 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 to the bottom of the ocean.
Anonymous Copenhagen Lain Flats
Anonymous Copenhagen
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. With sleek leather straps, a minimalist silhouette, and a sustainable construction, these sandals strike the perfect balance between laid-back and luxe.
* Denotes a paid placement.