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Updated March 8, 2024: This article on the best sandals for flat feet was updated with editor-tested product picks, new sandal product releases, and additional information on shopping tips for the best sandals for flat feet.
Sandal season is all about enjoying carefree fun in the sun, and there’s nothing worse than uncomfortable footwear bringing you down. If you have flat feet, arch support is key for soothing strains, and the best sandals for flat feet will have you striding with ease, free from the worries of increased ankle pain, all-over aches, or foot fatigue.
“As much as we love summer sandals, there are so many styles and features, so it’s best to choose sandals by foot type as to minimize your chances of experiencing foot pain,” says New York-based podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal.
Flat feet, known as pes planus, is generally a genetic inclination, per FW Podiatry, though it can develop from a range of causes such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, all babies are born with flat feet and develop their arch shape at five years old, however 20 to 30 percent of the population has feet that sit close to the ground due to inconsistencies from that growth period. Proper footwear, like the best shoes for flat feet, is essential for managing and preventing discomfort, where flimsy or unstructured designs may exacerbate a range of concerns.
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Dr. Splichal stresses that those with flat feet will most benefit from built-in arch support and “stiffer, more structured sandals,” to correct the arches. New York-based podiatrist Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, adds that, “The more open the sandal, the less support there will be, especially in the arch, where flat-footed people tend to need it the most.” However, doesn’t mean you need to avoid sandals style altogether. Orthopedic sandals for flat feet should account for your specific foot shape to give you a shoe that’s stable enough to function as a daily walking sandal, and the options on our list make it so that you don’t have to compromise on aesthetics along the way.
It’s likely that flat feet are also be combined with other common foot issues, such as wide feet, plantar fasciitis, overpronation, and bunions, so it’s extra important to find well-fitting sandals that feel snug but don’t rub. Soft cushioning, airflow windows, water-resistant durability, and adjustable strapping features are always a bonus for supreme comfort and functionality for outdoor activities, too.
Ahead, shop the 15 best podiatrist-approved sandals for flat feet, including recovery slides, hiking sandals, supportive flip-flops, comfortable wedge sandals, and everything in between.
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Sandals for Flat Feet of 2023
Our FN Shop editors with flat feet regularly review a myriad of sandal styles to determine the best options for the range of outdoor activities in the warmer months. We’ve tested new releases, bestsellers, and reevaluated tried-and-true favorites to curate our top list for this shopping guide. Shopping for podiatrist-approved sandals that are specifically suited for flat feet can be tricky, especially considering the wide range of styles and foot health-friendly brands on the market, so we hand-picked our top three shoes that reliably deliver on comfort, support, and style. Our editors rated our Editor’s Choice sandals for flat feet based on key criteria, including essential arch support, comfortable cushioning, overall durability and functionality, and style appeal.
- Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Sandals: The Birkenstock Arizona belongs in the sandals hall of fame for its timeless style and exemplary durability and support, and it’s a particularly stellar style for flat feet all the same. Its contoured footbed aids in arch support and stability with every stride, while the roomy fit and soft leather strapping bodes well for foot issues that commonly come with flat feet, such as wide feet and bunions.
- Teva Original Universal Sandals: For outdoor activities and summer sports, you can never go wrong with Teva sandals. The Universal Sandal stands out as one of the best water shoes and hiking sandals, though its soft-cushioned EVA foam footbed and secure ankle strapping make them an excellent walking sandal for daily jaunts, too.
- Cushionaire Women’s Feather Recovery Slide Sandals: Cloud-like comfort is the only way to describe the Cushionaire Recovery Slide Sandals, which are the best affordable sandals for flat feet on our list. Constructed with all-over plush cushioning, your stride will feet bouncy and light as a feather, with deep heel cups for secure footing and grippy soles that’ll take you from indoor lounging to outdoor adventures.
Size range: Women’s 4 to 12
Colorsways: White Leather, Antique Cognac Oiled Leather, Black Oiled Leather
Special features: Flat contoured footbed, soft leather strapping
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “My feet are prone to plantar fasciitis (a common concern for those of us in the flat feet club), so Birkenstocks are my number one pick when sandal weather arrives. The contoured footbed provides midfoot support that I can feel, and I love that they continue to mold to my feet the longer I wear them. The leather is also durable but soft on the feet, which prevents painful rubbing and blisters once you break them in.”
What testers say: “I love them so much that will get the other colors too! Super stylish and comfy for me. They molded to my feet in one day of using them around the house. Now they don’t make any noises or are uncomfortable at all. They are just perfect!”
Arch Support: 4.5/5 rating | Cushioning: 4.5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating | Style: 5/5 rating
Size range: Men’s 8 to 14; Women’s 5 to 13
Colorways: Black, Bright White, Metallic Pewter, Champagne, Iridescence Rutabaga, and more
Special features: EVA foam footbed
#1 Amazon Bestseller
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “I don’t go a single summer without my Tevas. As someone with flat feet, these are no doubt the most comfortable shoe in my year-round rotation (and I always push it to see how long I can wear them through fall). The cushy foam footbed keeps my strides smooth and supported — it almost feels like I’m not wearing any shoes at all, as I can’t feel the harshness of pavement or rock when I step. The adjustable straps make them super secure for outdoor sports or rollercoaster rides, and I love that I can double them as water shoes when I go swimming at a particularly rocky beach. They last for years and are an absolute essential.”
What testers say: “These sandals are a delightful blend of comfort, style, and practicality, making them a versatile addition to any summer wardrobe. Comfort is paramount when it comes to sandals, and Teva has nailed it with the Original Universal design. The adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, and the cushioned footbed provides a level of comfort that makes these sandals suitable for extended walks or adventures. The straps also feature quick-dry webbing, which is a fantastic feature for beach trips or unexpected splashes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $35
Arch Support: 4.8/5 rating | Cushioning: 5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating | Style: 4.5/5 rating
Size range: Women’s 5 to 12
Colorways: 19 hues, including Blush, Green and Tangerine
Special features: Heel cup, non-slip soles, all-over comfort
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Editor testing and review notes: “Cushionaire’s slides are my go-to shoes for running quick errands or doing chores around the house — they’re lightweight, unbelievably cushioned, and waterproof. Some slide sandals will slip off of my feet when I’m walking, but these have a thicker upper strap that holds the foot in place (you won’t hear any flipping or flopping when you wear them). Expect them to compress a little over time, but even when this happens, you won’t be left wanting for crucial foot support.”
What testers say: “I cannot tell you the pain these shoes have taken off my back, hips, legs, feet. Everything. I am 38 weeks pregnant. I’ve had these shoes a few weeks. I was religiously visiting the chiropractor, and getting dry needling done on my sciatic nerve. I’m in a pregnancy group on Facebook, and a member posted these slides, saying they helped her sciatica, and other painful areas us women suffer with during pregnancy. She was NOT WRONG. If I don’t wear these shoes, all those pains come back within a few hours. They’re the only thing saving me right now in these final days of pregnancy.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24.99
Arch Support: 4.8/5 rating | Cushioning: 5/5 rating | Durability: 4.7/5 rating | Style: 4.5/5 rating
Colorways: Blue, white, black, red , pink, gray, and more
Special features: LiteRide foam cushioning, wide fit, cupped footbeds, breathable windows
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Crocs Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
What testers say: I love, love, love these shoes! They’re the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $49.99
Colorways: Black and multi-color options available
Special features: Textured footbed, Nike Air heel
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “True to size and very comfortable. This is my-go to when I’m on vacation. They’re great for hiking and going to the beach.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Colors: Palm Lime, Amethyst, Apricot, Black, and more
Special features: Heel cups, arch support
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
The brand’s three-zone comfort technology includes a deep-seated heel cups, arch support, and cushioning to keep you light on your feet.
What testers say: “I unfortunately suffer from plantar fasciitis in both feet and I’m not ready to wear orthopedic tennis shoes all the time. I heard great things about these flip flops and decided to give them a try. These have great arch support and are very comfortable. I’m not sure if they mention that they’re waterproof but I have gotten them wet many times with no problems. I have 2 pairs and I really appreciate the simplicity of the design, they don’t scream ‘ORTHOPEDIC!’”
Price upon publish date of this article: $69.95
Colorways: All Black, light tan, ivory
Special features: Ergonomic design, built-in arch support, cushioned sole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “The way the strap goes over the main part of your foot is more comfortable and flattering than most flip flops. Very spongy, cushiony footbed too.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Colorways: Black, beige, and white
Special features: EVA cushioning, hook-and-loop ankle strap
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What testers say: “Comfiest shoes ever. Definitely recommended to friends and family.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $75
Colorways: Brown, navy, brown
Special features: Cushioned footbed, wide strapping
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I have difficulty finding shoes with proper arch support for my painful plantar faciitis. These shoes are very comfortable and I would buy again. I have purchased 3 pairs of shoes this summer and they have all been Kork-Ease. Will buy more as well.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $115
Colorways: Black, blue, pirple, gray, white, yellow, and more
Special features: Cushioned footbed, breathable perforations
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I love my Hoka Slides. They greatly helped my plantar fasciitis.” Another customer wrote, “I’ve worn Hoka recovery slides for years for comfort and, most recently, to alleviate pain from plantar fasciitis. The newest design of this slide is so good – the heel cup is deeper, the toe grip is more pronounced, and the top strap is nicely contoured. Highly recommend!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $60
Colorways: Black, brown, stone
Special features: Wide support base, PU outsole, durable leather strapping
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What testers say: “These sandals were comfortable right out of the box. I have odd-sized feet (11 1/2 extra wide), and they fit me perfectly. Sometimes I forget I’m wearing them!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $34.05
Colorways: Black, brown, white, champagne, and cork
Special features: Cushioned footbed with arch support
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Oh, are these comfortable. The upper is so buttery soft and flexible. I’ve worn them out and about and the heel is just as comfortable. I joked with my husband that shoes this cute are supposed to hurt. They don’t! The cushion on the heel is nice with a round button shaped cushion under the heel. The overall footbed is nicely cushiony. I just walked an hour on the street and these are amazingly comfortable. ‘Luggage’ is a versatile color, too. This is a win. Absolutely recommend.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $169
Colorways: Black, Stone, Cactus and Leopard Suede, and more
Special features: Rocker heel, memory foam footbed
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “Love these sandals! They are so comfortable for walking, with great arch support and soft leather upper that hugs the foot perfectly. So stylish and great for walking around town. Have them in 3 other colors!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $129.30
Colorways: Black, Birch, Sea Moss, White, Dusty Olive, Pink Peacock, Natural Hemp, Dusty Lavender, and more
Special features: Wide footbed, stretchy straps
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “These are amazing. I usually don’t buy over the foot strap sandals unless I can get them in a wide as they won’t fit — since they were stretchy I decided to try anyway. I would say the structure and comfort of the sandal is 100% worth it. I usually wear a 9W and the 9 fits my foot perfectly!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $62.95
Colors: Black, brown
Special features: Cushioned footbed, calfskin leather strapping, slip-on and breathable design
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I could not have foreseen such a great looking, well fitting sandal. Beyond happy.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $182.50
How to Know If You Have Flat Feet
Not sure if you have flat feet? Check your soles while standing, and look for the absence of a curve in the arch of your foot. “The structure of flat feet is such that the arch tends to flatten too much or overpronate,” Dr. Sutera says. “It can be diagnosed by a doctor, but is usually pretty easy to spot.”
If you’re still unsure whether your arch sits low, here’s a quick tip, per pedorthist Michael Fishkin of Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists: “Flat feet are apparent when you get out of a pool and have no space under the foot where the arch should be, creating a pancake-style imprint on the ground,” he says. So, just wet the bottom of your foot and step on a surface that will show your footprint, such as concrete, stone, or a paper towel. Examine the imprint, and if there’s no curve where the arch should be, you have flat feet.
In severe cases, surgical correction is possible. But, chances are you won’t need it. “Most people function just fine,” Dr. Sutera says. Flat feet can be temporarily corrected with arch support insoles and supportive shoes. By providing support for your arch, these will “correct” your feet while you wear them. Along with arch-strengthening exercises (which Dr. Sutera cautions should only be done with the guidance of an experienced physical therapist), they’re the easiest way to keep flat feet stable and pain-free.
What To Look For in The Best Sandals for Flat Feet
- Structured styles: The daintier the shoe, the less stability it provides for flat feet. “Wearing shoes with more structure and support, especially for people with flat feet, is not only more comfortable but also healthier overall,” Dr. Sutera says. Try to stick to styles that feature straps to help hold your feet in place, similar to hiking sandals or water shoes. Even better if they’re adjustable; these can help your sandals fit better and stay on more securely.
- Thick insoles and outer soles: Thick, cushioned soles are essential for providing adequate support. This is especially true if you have plantar fasciitis, a common overuse injury that often accompanies flat feet and causes inflammation and pain. “People who suffer from plantar fasciitis should avoid styles with thin, flat insoles and outer soles,” Dr. Sutera says.
- Deep heel cups: Not only does this feature help plant your foot more securely in your shoe, it’s also another factor to consider when searching for the best sandals for plantar fasciitis (where pain tends to radiate from where the arch meets the heel). “Deep heel cups can be used as a way to create support for a foot with excess mobility,” Dr. Splichal says. “The heel cup hugs the heel bone, reducing excess motion in the rearfoot and ankle.”
- Enhanced arch support: Enhanced arch support is important for flat feet overall, but especially if they’re accompanied by plantar fasciitis or bunions. Bunions occur when your arch drops, or pronates, causing increased pressure on your foot’s inner area and making the muscles on the top of your foot overcompensate. To avoid this, make sure you’re choosing a style with adequate arch support. “Arch support sandals for flat feet can improve comfort and bring support to a hypermobile, flat or over-pronated foot,” Dr. Splichal says.
- Durability: Durable materials are always a good idea whether you have flat feet or not, but they’re especially important when you need a sturdy sandal to accommodate your foot shape. “Go for high-quality materials that are breathable and stretch naturally with the foot,” Dr. Splichal says. “Avoid materials that may cause blisters or do not stretch.”
- Pronation control: Sandals with inbuilt pronation control can help reduce symptoms of plantar fasciitis and bunions, as well as provide more comfort overall. “Pronation is typically controlled in sandals through arch support, a deep heel seat and heel-toe drop,” Dr. Splichal says. Keep an eye out for all those features to get the most stable sandal. “This is beneficial for those with flat feet or hypermobile feet,” she says.
How We Chose the Best Sandals for Flat Feet
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
To find the best sandals for flat feet, the team at Footwear News assessed several different factors and design elements for every pair of shoes on this list, including fit, rise, style, materials used, personal testing, and market research. To narrow our selections of the best sandals for flat feet, we tested sandals first-hand, compared online consumer reviews, and interviewed footwear experts, including podiatrists. Additionally, we looked for sandals that were best for flat feet and additional foot conditions — from wide feet to plantar fasciitis. You’ll find a price range that stems from affordable, budget-friendly finds to splurge-worthy options. We also included flat feet sandals from performance-based footwear brands like Nike, Adidas, and Keen, and in various styles including slides, thong sandals, wedge heels, hiking sandals, and more, so that you can find your most new favorite sandals for a large range of activities and occasions. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Emily Splichal is a New York-based podiatrist, human movement specialist and global leader in barefoot science and rehabilitation. Originally trained as a surgeon through Beth Israel Medical Center and Mt. Vernon Hospital, Dr. Splichal shifted her practice in 2017 to focus on functional and regenerative medicine. She is known for her focus on movement dysfunction and neuromuscular control during gait. Her Functional Foot Programming is built around evidence-based principles in fascial fitness, foot to core sequencing and barefoot stimulation.
Dr. Jacqueline Sutera is a board-certified podiatrist and practices in New York and northern New Jersey. She is a member of Vionic’s Innovation Lab and has a special interest in women’s health and foot care. She practices “whole body podiatry” and believes in a holistic approach to foot care, guiding patients to understand how podiatric issues can also relate to their overall health. She’s appeared in many national news outlets discussing and writing about foot care.
Michael Fishkin is a pedorthist at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, who helps people dealing with foot, back or knee problems.
Meet the Authors
Sarah Y. Wu is a Berlin-based copy director, writer and DEI consultant. Currently, she’s the contributing content director at Milk Makeup and copy writes for lifestyle brands behind the scenes. Her bylines have appeared in outlets including Forbes, Glamour, WWD and Teen Vogue. When she’s not at her laptop, she’s out exploring Berlin in sneakers. Connect with her on Instagram @say.wu.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. In her free time, she can be found strolling the New York City streets in her favorite Teva Universal Sandals that support her flat feet. Cigliano updated this story in 2024 to include upgraded sandal styles and new shoe options for flat feet that are on-trend, top-rated, and expert-approved.
