Best Walking Sandals and Flip-Flops: Complete Guide for 2026

Quick Answer: The best walking sandal is secure, stable and shaped to your foot rather than simply soft. For longer walks, prioritize heel retention, adjustable straps and a durable outsole. For casual wear, supportive flip-flops can work if they have a contoured footbed instead of a flat foam sole. BWF’s existing sandal coverage includes plantar fasciitis, bunions, arch support, platform sandals, color guides and full flip-flop comparisons; this page connects those resources by use case.

Choose Sandals by Need

What Makes a Sandal Good for Walking?

Look for a broad footbed, a secure heel or heel strap for longer walks, enough arch contour for your foot and an outsole that does not feel slick on hard surfaces. Adjustable straps are especially useful because feet swell in heat and during long days. A sandal that is comfortable standing still can still become tiring if the foot slides around while walking.

Flip-Flops vs. Walking Sandals

Flip-flops are convenient, but open-back designs rely more on the toes and forefoot to keep the sandal in place. For sightseeing, theme parks and long urban walks, a sandal with a heel strap is usually more secure. For the beach, pool or short errands, a supportive flip-flop can be simpler and easier to clean.

Current Sandal Reviews

Sandals for Wide Feet and Bunions

Adjustability helps, but strap length does not change the width of the platform. If your forefoot is wide, make sure the entire foot sits on the footbed without hanging over the sides. People with bunions should also avoid stiff straps that cross directly over the big-toe joint.

Water-Friendly Sandals

EVA and synthetic sandals are easier to use around pools, beaches and wet environments than cork or leather models. Water-friendly construction does not automatically mean good traction, so check the outsole as well as the upper material.