The Most Comfortable and Stylish Sandals for Problem Feet

It may be hard to believe today, but spring and summer will be here before you know it, which means it’s almost time to trade out our boots and winter shoes for strappy sandals, flip-flops, and slides. Unfortunately, by our age, many of us have developed foot problems which can make wearing traditional flat sandals a painful endeavor. Years of abuse from wearing high heels, ill-fitting shoes, injuries, and weight changes can cause bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, or simply painful feet. These ailments make shoe shopping a major challenge, especially when you’re searching for the most comfortable and stylish sandals for your problem feet. Thankfully, shoe companies have finally caught on, and they’re now designing fashionable sandals that offer extra cushioning and support.

After years of shopping for warm-weather shoes that will keep my mature feet happy and pain-free, I’ve developed a list of go-to brands that I can count on when it’s time to purchase a new sandal. I thought sharing this list might be helpful for those of you who endure a similar struggle on your quest for a comfortable yet stylish sandal.

Check out these other shoe guides as well before you go!:

• Best Sneakers and Walking Shoes for Mature Feet
• Best Black Dress Shoes for Women Over 50 Your Feet Will Love
• Comfortable Gold and Silver Dress Shoes for Older Women
• Comfiest Shoes Your Over-50 Feet Will Love

The Most Comfortable and Stylish Sandals for Problem Feet

#1. Vionic

Every time I post looking for shoe recommendations, so many AWSL readers comment or message me that they love Vionic shoes. I can see why because this brand prides itself on delivering a supportive shoe with arch support, stability, and cushioning. Slide sandals are huge again for this year, and this platform slide includes an orthotic insole and cushioned outsole. They’re available in 21 colors and sizes 5-11. Comfy platforms are my new favorites because I enjoy the height boost without putting extra pressure on the balls of my feet. If you need more room for your toes due to a bunion, I also really like this pair!

#2. Munro

I’ve been wearing Munro shoes for many years. I own several pairs of their booties, as well as a pair of loafers that made their way into my rotation quite often this winter. This pair of Cleo sandals in navy leather from Munro looks so chic and elegant. They come in eight colors, in SS(super slim)=4A, N(narrow)=2A, M(medium)=B, W(wide)=D, WW(extra wide)=EE, sizes 5-13. Shoes and sandals that tie or buckle securely are feeling comfier these days. I also like this two-strap pair which you can get in 20 different colors and patterns.

#3. Eileen Fisher

I am a big fan of the Eileen Fisher brand and have been getting a lot of wear out of my crepe pants lately (especially on my recent trip to Miami). But as much as I love their clothing, I think I love their shoes more! They fit my foot and lifestyle and are super comfy. I bought my first pair several years ago during a marathon shopping day, and I’ve been adding to my collection ever since. I love the look of these sporty platform sandals, which come in platinum, black leather, and gold metallic suede.

I wore these sandals day in and day out over hot cobblestoned streets on our Riverboat cruise back in 2019 and on our Maritime cruise last summer. They dress up and down easily. EF makes this shape every year in various colors with a small twist to the sole. This year they’re in 4 colors, including a pretty metallic one. You can read more about how to wear a sport sandal here.

#4. Dr. Scholl’s

As I age, I refuse to sacrifice style for comfort, so it’s vital that I find a shoe that can check both boxes. Dr. Scholl’s motto is “shoes that look good and feel good,” so it’s only fitting that they make the list! I have had a few different pairs of shoes from this brand, and they’re always reliably comfortable. They are also relatively affordable, and you can grab this pair of Islander shoes for under $50. They come in seven colors, sizes 6-11. Besides being comfy, these are sustainably crafted with soft linings made from recycled bottles.

#5. Ecco

Ecco is a Danish shoe company that has been making shoes for over 50 years. I own several pairs of their sneakers, which are an absolute staple in my wardrobe. Along with making great sneakers, they have a great collection of sandals that will keep your feet happy and pain-free. This pair of wedge cork sandals have a suspended footbed that adapts to the shape of your foot. They come in three colors, sizes 4.5-11.5.

I’m a big fan of this criss-cross style too.

#6. Naot

Many of you readers told me how much you love your Naot footwear. Their insoles are constructed of natural cork and latex and lined with a suede lining. They have amazing arch support and an elevated footbed. Their best-selling Kayla sandal comes in 14 colors. This brand doesn’t do half sizes, so make sure to size up.

#7. Jack Rogers

Last year I purchased my first pair of Jack Rogers sandals. I know, I know…where have I been? There are two versions of these sandals that look the same. The classic version here and these Jacks II, which have a cushioned footbed which my aging feet appreciate. They’re also here on Amazon in several other colors. They got a lot of wear on my recent Miami trip because they’re comfy, stay on without much toe-gripping, and allow my feet to swell where they need to.

#8. OOFOS

Now I know that lots of you will consider these ugly. But…hear me out. If you need a casual pair of flip-flops to wear to the pool, run to the grocery, or even just wear around the house, your feet will be quite pleased with this pair from OOFOS. These flip flops have over 13,000 4.5-star reviews on Amazon, with rave reviews from customers with various foot ailments, from plantar fasciitis to bunions and flat feet. Their “revolutionary OOfoam technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials to reduce the stress on your feet, joints & back. Plus, the closed-cell foam is machine washable and designed to minimize odor.”

#9. Kork-Ease

You’ve heard me talk about Kork-Ease before being extremely comfortable. This pair comes in multiple colors!

#10. Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole

I’ve had several pairs of Gentle Souls and can attest to their comfort. This pair also comes in a fun red or emerald green color. I also love the look of this pair.

#11 Clarks

I love Clarks wedges for comfort and a boost in height. My pair is many years old and sold out, but these are similar with a cork sole.

Other Comfortable, Yet Stylish Sandals Your Problem Feet Will Love:

• Your feet will be happy in these Tonga Sandals by Josef Seibel.
• Birkenstocks have a cult following for a reason. Their Madrid Big Buckle Slide are really fun.
• If you don’t like to show your toes, check out this closed-toe sandal by Me Too.
• This pair of strappy sandals have an amazing number of positive reviews for comfort. Plus, they’re only $35!

What are your favorite brands of sandals to wear?

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