We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
1. Sorel Kinetic sandals I can honestly imagine wearing when we all finally make the move to living on the space station with Zenon. Zetus lapetus, these shoes are so cute!
Promising reviews: "Love my new sandals! Great cushioning and arch support, sporty look, and the adjustable strap is great for the Florida humidity that makes your feet swell when you walk a bit. I found them true to size. I'm usually between an 8 and 8.5 (usually the larger size in athletic shoes) and found the 8 in these to fit well. Got lots of compliments on them my first day wearing them! So comfy!" —Maggie
Get them from Amazon for $75.30+ (available in sizes 6–11 and eight styles).
2. Strappy chunky heels with a square toe that'll make you wanna show off those tootsies from dawn to dusk. They're super versatile, come in so many fun shades, and will take you straight to Compliment City the next time you wear 'em around your friends.
Promising reviews: "Reaching for these sandals more and more because they’re comfy, cute, and elevate my outfits! They didn’t require any breaking in and I’ve worn them for an entire day out and had no issues with long term wear. Fit was true to size. Going to get another color since I love them so much!" —Nidhi Patel
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 6–10 and 27 styles).
3. Steve Madden slides you'll happily slip in and out of all summer long whether you're planning to take a midday stroll or are off to a pal's to enjoy a daiquiri by the pool.
I've been living in these shoes for YEARS. I have them in black and they are one of my tried-and-true favorites. They're just the perfect basic sandal! They look great with dresses, jeans, and leggings which is pretty much all I ask for in a summer shoe. Check the image (left) above to see me wearing them with both a dress and jeans. Since they are open-backed there is no chance of uncomfortable rubbing. I just love 'em.
Promising review: "This shoe is so cute for how cheap it is!! I would definitely suggest sizing at least a half size up. I usually wear 6 or 7 in shoes and I got this sandal in a 7.5 and it fits just right. I maybe could have even gotten an 8. Overall, it’s a perfect shoe for a warm spring/summer day!" —Morgan
Get them from Amazon for $31.87+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and 18 styles).
4. Heeled mules that come in an unbelievable number of styles, seriously, quilted, suede, mesh, satin, metallic, animal prints, and more!. In my next life I want to be an octopus so I can wear four pairs of these all at once.
Promising reviews: "Wide feet–friendly. I wear a woman’s 11WW and I bought these in a 12. My god they fit FABULOUSLY! I am also a big plus-size woman, over 300 pounds, with big ankles and always swollen feet lol. They fit great and are comfortable. Now I’ve worn them twice and both times was to the car, inside the event, sat down, maybe got up 2/3 times BRIEFLY, back to the car and home lol. BUT my point is, they felt GOOD! The thick heel always does better for us plush gals! Most heels over 2 inches hurt regardless but these were fine, I didn’t even kick them off in the car like I normally do, lol." —Deidra Dazzling
Get them from Amazon for $49.90 (available in sizes 5–13 and in 21 colors and styles)
Psst: this item is included in Prime Wardrobe so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!
5. Cushioned sandals featuring thick straps and a supportive sole for those occasions where you want to rock cute footwear but also would rather not end up with blisters galore.
Promising review: "I absolutely love these sandals. They are incredibly comfy and fit well. I have semi-narrow feet and these do not feel too loose. The elastic in the straps are soft, so even if they did fit a bit tighter I feel like they would still be comfortable. I plan on buying these in a few colors! :)" —Elaura
Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and eight styles).
6. Simple leather slides you can count on to go with *everything* and never go out of style — you truly can't go wrong investing in a pair of these bad boys.
Christina Christi is a woman-owned small businesses that handcrafts all of her jewelry, bags, and sandals in Athens, Greece.
Promising review: "Love these sandals, good fit, beautifully made, and they arrived so quickly. I would definitely buy from Christina again." —karengazz
Get them from Christina Christi on Etsy for $81.99 (available in sizes 5–10.5 and two colors).
7. Platform gladiator Dr. Martens, because why should you only be able to rock your favorite brand of shoes during the cooler seasons? These will help you transition out of your badass boots during the hot summer months.
Promising review: "It runs a half size big but I think all Dr. Martens do for the most part. Love this shoe. I get so many compliments. I have wide feet and I work on my feet all day and I can wear these for a full day." —Stefanie F.
Get them from Dr. Martens for $150 or Amazon for $113.99 (available in sizes 5–9).
Psst: this item is included in Prime Wardrobe so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!
8. Open-toe huaraches made of 100% leather that'll look darling whether you pair them with a dress or jeans — they come in an array of colors that'll match all of your go-to spring and summer 'fits.
Promising review: "My new favorite shoes. They're so comfy that they may replace flip-flops for me forever. I just purchased another pair in white!" —nihkole
Get them from Amazon for $48.71 (available in sizes 6–10 and four colors).
Psst: this item is included in Prime Wardrobe so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!
9. A pair of elevated sandals handmade in Athens, Greece that'll become your new slip-on and go option. Prepare yourself for the onslaught of compliments and requests for the purchase link.
It's recommended to size up if you have a wide foot, or are in between sizes.
Get it from our Goodful shop for $165 (available in women's sizes 35–42 and two color combos).
10. H-shaped flat sandals you can wear to brunch, dinner, a bridal shower, to run errands, to walk your dog...you get the point.
Promising review: "These sandals are comfortable and fit as expected. I've had them for several weeks now and they seem to be pretty sturdy as well. I can walk in these for miles with no rubbing or chaffing. Highly recommended." —nexy jo
Get them from Amazon for $18 (available in sizes 5–15 and eight colors).
Psst: this item is included in Prime Wardrobe so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!
11. Lace-up, ankle wrap sandals that'll help you perfectly recreate Megara's fabulous look from Hercules. Seriously, they're handmade in Greece! She'd certainly approve.
Greek Chic Handmades is a small business based in Athens, Greece. Almost all of their designs can be customized, so if your sandal of choice doesn't come in the exact color you were hoping for — just reach out and ask if it's possible!
Promising review: "They’re exactly as pictured. The laces are not stretchy so you’ll have to flex your legs while tying them or else they’ll be too tight. This means they stay up on my leg perfectly though. I’ll definitely order more sandals from this vendor." —Abs Inthe
Get them from Greek Chic Handmades on Etsy for $78.34 (available in sizes 4–14 and five colors).
12. Double-buckle slides you won't know how you've lived this long without! They're similar to the Birks you know and love but are suuuuuper affordable and waterproof.
The seller recommends checking the size chart, which details the best size for your foot length. The back strap is also adjustable!
Promising review: "Comfy and trendy enough. I like 'em! I prefer not to wear shoes that don't have a back. It's my paranoia that I'll have to break out in a run at some point. But these work very well. I walk miles in them without discomfort. Plus they're cute. Trends up any casual outfit. They are not Croc- or Birkenstock-level comfort because the sole is not cushioned, but it is carved out just right for the naked foot. Update: Just came back from a month in Costa Rica during rainy season and I'm so glad I brought these! They held up so well getting through muddy pebble streets. The soles were thick enough to not feel the rocks beneath me and keep my toes from getting in the dirt. When I got in, I just washed them off. The white color held up in all that and they never felt uncomfortable or as if they would come of my feet (a concern I have about sandals without ankle straps). They are excellent value. Get 'em!" —MelRay
Get them from Amazon for $17.99 (available in sizes 6–10 and two colors).
13. Faux suede espadrille sandals to add the perfect finishing touch to that dress you've been dying to wear.
Promising review: "They are so great!! Sturdy and amazing quality for the price. Definitely considering buying them in different colors. I got my normal size and they fit great. I have wide feet and they have plenty of room." —Shelby
Get them from Amazon for $30.16 (available in sizes 5.5–11 and 45 styles).
14. Handmade leather sandals with a minimalist look to them that'll leave you reaching for them over and over. The leather insoles will soften over time so, just like your favorite bottle of wine, these will get better with age.
Light Bleu is a small business based in Greece specializing in handmade leather accessories with a focus on quality pieces at affordable prices.
Promising reviews: "I really love the quality of the sandals. I walked in them for hours and hours and it did not hurt at all. The owner was amazing, I ordered the wrong size and they immediately took take care of it. I’ve never had that kind of experience with a seller. I highly recommend this seller to everyone. Thank you again." —Nina
Get them from Light Bleu on Etsy for $34.16 (originally $56.93; available in sizes 4.5–12 and three colors).
15. Classic jelly sandals so you can relive your childhood even though you're an adult with a full-time job and bills.
Promising review: "These jellies are some of the best I’ve had. The plastic is soft, malleable, and easy to walk in. In other shoes I’m a 7.5/8 so, I ordered a size 8 and they fit perfectly. The heel is hollow and the shoe is lightweight, as opposed to other brands." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $22.98+ (available in sizes 5–8.5 and 28 styles).
16. Heeled Chinese Laundry sandals to make you say "dayyyyum girl!" when you look in the mirror.
Promising review: "I purchased the sunflower yellow. The suede has a sheen to it that makes them look like a lush gold, but not in tacky cheap way. The photos, including mine, make the suede look more rough/hairy than they look. It is very smooth and soft. These are the kind of shoes that are so comfy you feel like you could run in them. I'm a size 7.5 but I purchased an 8 just to be safe and they fit prefectly. I have a wide foot and a high arch." —Christa
Get them from Amazon for $32.88+ (available in sizes 5.5–10 and four styles).
Psst: this item is included in Prime Wardrobe so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!
17. Soda flatform espadrilles — a tried-and-true classic style you can count on to easily incorporate into your wardrobe. They're the definition of "cute 'n' casual" and you likely won't be able to resist getting them in multiple colors.
Promising reviews: "Don't hesitate any further, just buy them! I am super picky about shoes, especially sandals, and these are so comfortable. I wore them for hours walking around downtown and no blisters, no discomfort, nothing. They look amazing, too!" —Summer
Get them from Amazon for $29.14+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and in 22 colors).
18. Neoprene slingback sandals you won't believe are actually waterproof since they look *just* like regular espadrilles. You're going to have the best time freaking out your friends the next time you dip your shoe-adorned toes in the pool, just because you can.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly says, "I walked all around Sarakiniko Beach in Milos, Greece, in these with a sure footing that was as good as if I were wearing athletic sneakers."
Promising review: "I loved my first pair so much that I bought two more pairs! I have always loved classic espadrilles but can’t wear them in rainy weather. These you can wear no matter what. And they are soooo comfortable! That makes them perfect for traveling — especially as they are lightweight — but I want to wear them all the time so bought more. They look great with skirts, pants, jeans or beachwear. The stretchy fabric and stretchy sling back heel make for comfort no matter how much feet may swell in hot weather. I just love these and am thinking about a fourth pair!" —Merlyn Greenwood
Get them from Amazon for $87.50 (available in sizes 6–11 and eight colors) or from Sea Star Beachwear for $125 (available in sizes 6–12 and seven colors).
19. Squishy slide-on slippers that are primarily meant to be worn at home — and that's OK because they're so ridiculously comfortable you won't want to risk wearing them outdoors too much. These delectable little marshmallow–like slip-ons must be protected at all costs!
FYI: Many reviewers suggest sizing down!
Promising review: "These slides are — and I mean this in the best way — marshmallows that mold to your individual feet. They are SOOOO comfortable. I’ve been working from home since the start of the pandemic, and I ordered them to wear in my house after I read that walking around barefoot long-term isn’t great for your feet. I wanted something with a little support but that would be comfortable. The reviews for these looked good so I ordered a pair, and now I never want to take them off. The material in every part is molded and squishy so there are no unexpected parts that dig into your skin or chafe. But they’re structured enough to provide some support for your arches. 10/10 highly recommend!" —Carrie B
Get them from Amazon for $23.99 (available in sizes 4–14.5 and 17 styles).
20. Colorful Tevas for anyone who *already* has a pair they've loved and adored so much that they're basically in shambles — treat yourself to new ones this summer so you can get back to traipsing along a rocky trail without the need to break out sneakers.
Promising review: "SO CUTE! I love them so much. Very comfortable and fit great. I have large feet, kind of wide. I was worried, but I sized down like everyone says. They fit PERFECT!" —Debbie morris Kindle Customer
Get them from Amazon for $36.01 (available in sizes 5–14 and 24 colors/patterns)
Psst: this item is included in Prime Wardrobe so you can give it a trial run if you're a member!
21. Shiny jelly slip-on sandals to add a pop of color to your footwear this summer — if you've always wanted to match your shoes to your ice pop flavor of choice, now is your chance!
Promising review: "I love these jelly sandals. They are TTS. I like them better than regular flip-flops with the strap between the toes. I bought the hot pink, mint green and light mauvy pink colors. I will wear them to the pool and beach." —Anonymous
Get them from Old Navy for $6.47 (originally $14.99; available in sizes 6–11 and nine colors).
22. Chunky platforms that'll give you the extra height you've been craving without having to sacrifice a single drop of the comfort you love in a shoe. Win-win!
Promising review: "I love these shoes! These are my third pair. They are extremely comfortable for all day or night wear immediately out of the box. I can dance in them for hours, which I can't say about most of my other shoes. I bought the silver pair to go with a specific dress I wore to a wedding. I have the gold ones and the white ones, too. I plan to buy the black ones soon. One drawback is the white bottoms because they get so dirty, and it is visible. But I have had success cleaning them with soap and water or baby wipes and getting most of the scuffs off." —beachbum2021
Get them from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and four colors).
23. Strappy fisherman sandals featuring a padded footbed that'll perfectly straddle between casual and stylish — you can wear 'em to dinner, to the beach, or while running errands and know you'll look fab.
Promising review: "LOVE LOVE LOVE this sandal. I have never had luck with thong sandals; however, these are the most comfortable sandals I have ever owned. I had no problems with the thong between my toes. This is the first pair of sandals that did not irritate my feet; these were literally ready to wear." —Cabugi
Get it from Amazon for $32.30+ (available in sizes 6–11 and 15 colors)
24. Chunky sandals for all my '90s babies who are still not over the return of this trend — the chunky heel and platform sole will take your style *~to the next level~* while paying homage to the ones you used to run around in during the summer of 1998.
Promising review: "These shoes are a very cool closet staple to have and reasonable price! There is not a ton of stretch to the strappy part which I like so my foot isn't sliding too far forward when I walk.
If you have wider feet, I would recommend going a size up? Although it's listed to be memory foam, it's not that cushion-y, but does mold to the shape of your sole/heel the more you wear them.
The only con is that the bottom of the shoe can be slippery on bare floors or tile so tread carefully. I went outside and shuffled the sandals a few times on the sidewalk to help these shoes have more grip. Alternative is to spray the bottom or buy grip stickers for the bottoms." –N. Paul
Get them from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and in taupe weave).
25. Cross strap sandals with a stylish slingback design that'll replace the basic pair you wore down into the ground while exploring the city from top to bottom last year.
26. And classic Jack Rogers flip-flops you can count on to make your beach day looks just a touch more elegant — chances are you've already got a pair of these in your closet that are on their last leg, so consider this your sign to go ahead and splurge on some new ones!
Promising review: "Cute, timeless flat. The strap across the foot is smaller than on many slides. I found this a huge plus, as this style of shoe often flops around when I walk. However, if you have a very high arch or wide feet, you may find it too tight. The shoes do take a couple of wearings to break in, but are really comfortable once this is done. Do sand or scuff the bottoms before wearing. They are crazy slick right out of the box." —Anonymous
Get them from Nordstrom for $96+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 11 styles) or Zappos for $127.95 (available in sizes 5–11 and 15 styles).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.