It’s not hard to find cheap sandals. Walk down the aisle of any superstore when the weather is warm and you’ll see scores of inexpensive pairs. The real challenge is finding cheap, comfy sandals that also follow summer shoe trends.
That’s where we come in. With years of experience with blisters and bleeding come sandal season, our editors have found the comfiest, most in-fashion sandals under $100 on the market. Ahead, we’ve rounded up our picks, including sandals for recovery, long walks and everything in between.
These may look like your classic flip-flops, but they are by far the most comfortable and supportive sandals I’ve ever owned. They hug your entire foot and provide arch support, and after countless trips to the beach this summer, there are no blisters to be had! — Molly Flores, photo editor
When you think of Sorel, a winter boot comes to mind. But I’m here to tell you the brand makes some of the comfiest sandals ever. I have the Ella II style in two different colors, and I love them. They can be dressed up or down, going from the beach to dinner. — Lindsey Smith, associate newsletters editor
After getting into kayaking last summer, I absolutely adore my Tevas. I got the basic sandals, which don’t offer a ton of support but they’re super light and packable, comfortable and, most importantly, actually stay on my feet when I’m swimming or wading through the mud to get to shore. —?Kai Burkhardt, testing, outdoors, sustainability and pets editor
If you’ve been on the hunt for a pair of rubber sandals in more fashion-forward colors and prints, Freedom Moses has you covered. I love this pearlescent Venus color, which is more elevated than a lot of the standard solid colors out there. They’re basically light as air, washable, waterproof and anti-slip. —?Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor
I absolutely love these boho-inspired platform sandals from Reef. On top of the eco-friendly materials, these are just plain comfortable. I can wear them for hours and walk miles without getting blisters or sore feet. And if you’re short like me, the extra height is a bonus! — Lindsey Smith, associate newsletters editor
With thin straps and a squared toe, these sandals somehow feel chicer than your typical foam flip-flops. They’re great for the beach, take up virtually no space in a suitcase or tote bag and are easy to clean. Plus, they feel high quality and I’ve never busted the straps (a common problem with other cheaper flip-flops I’ve owned … looking at you, Old Navy). —?Sophie Shaw, associate fashion and beauty editor
I recently purchased these sandals because I needed a pair to bring on my trip to Greece. I have not been disappointed by them! The quality of the shoe itself is great, and the straps provide security around the heel if you plan to walk in them for a while. They also come in a couple different colors and have a slight platform if that’s something that you like in your shoes. I’ve been recommending these to everyone! — Tess Eberhardt, editorial coordinator
Technically these are men’s sandals, but anyone can wear them. Unlike most sandals, these Drift Classics have great arch support that won’t make your feet ache, and the soft straps don’t leave red marks on your feet. — Lindsey Smith, associate newsletters editor
Love ’em or hate ’em, there’s no denying that Crocs are comfy, thanks to their spongy foam construction. They're especially popular among rock climbers because they’re easy to slip on between climbs and snug enough to tackle uneven terrain. And even though they’re a tad ugly — just look at those air vents — I find them oddly charming. — Maxwell Shukuya, associate writer
I’ve had the same pair of Chacos for nine years. They’ve taken me on hikes, beach walks, city strolls and more, across the world. They’re sturdy, comfortable, waterproof and easy to clean. During the summertime, they’re my go-to activity sandal. The straps can take some time to adjust to your perfect fit, but once they do, your feet will be supported and ready for any terrain. Plus, they come in lots of colors and you’re likely to find a great deal!?—?Sophie Shaw, associate fashion and beauty editor
I will say it up front: These slides are not cute. They are, however, the most comfortable sandals you will ever put on your feet. Oofos specially makes shoes for post-workout recovery — its proprietary OOfoam technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foam footwear — but they’re so delightfully supportive and squishy, that I throw them on even on days where I skipped the gym. After a few wears, looks suddenly don’t seem to matter much at all. —?Chelsea Stone, editorial director
I’ve never found a more comfortable sandal. These are made from real yoga mats so they’re extremely squishy and comfortable. The fabric straps don’t give me blisters and I can wear them for hours. They also last for years! I’ve had the same pair for over a decade, and they’re still as comfortable as the first time I wore them. — Lindsey Smith, associate newsletters editor
It may not be original, but I do love my Birks. And these Arizona Essentials made from waterproof EVA are super comfortable. I can wear them to the beach, then pair them with a sundress for poolside cocktails. And, being a New Yorker, I can walk my many blocks with nary a blister. And though Birkenstocks can be pricey, especially now that there is a line to get into the Soho store every weekend, I was thrilled that they cost $50. —?Tobey Grumet Segal, health, fitness and food editor
The Teva Original Universal Sandals have been a staple in my closet, helping me dress for a variety of occasions. Whether I’m on the beach, hiking with friends or dressing them up with a jumpsuit, these sandals have added comfort and color to my spring and summer wardrobes. With plenty of wear and tear on my current ones, these sandals are the durable and dependable footwear I go to when I’m looking for a efficient sandals that won’t hurt my feet. Plus, they’re lightweight and small enough to fit in my carry-on bags for quick trips or when I’m on the go. —?Madison Yerke, digital content strategist
My ride-or-die sandals, all year round. I can dress them up or down, depending on the occasion, and they’re surprisingly comfortable despite being a strappy sandal. I don’t think these shoes will ever go out of style. —?Hayley Kinne, business development manager
These Y2K-inspired Steve Madden sandals are a no-brainer if you’re looking for a quick and versatile option for the warmer months. They can be dressed up or down with equal ease, and they’re my go-to when I’m not sure how fancy or casual my destination is. The neutral color goes with basically everything, which is a definite perk when I don’t feel like thinking too hard about my outfit but still want to look put together. As for comfort, the stretchy fabric band on top hugs my foot snugly enough so that I don’t have to worry about them slipping off. —?Morgan Pryor, former Underscored intern
Despite what their name would lead you to believe, these Nike slides do not slide off your feet — believe me, I’ve tried. They’re made a bit narrow, which gives them that extra source of support that’s especially useful when wet. They have a contoured grippy footbed reminiscent of that of a running shoe so I can wear them for hours without any pain. I have a pretty high instep, but because the strap is lined with cushioning, I never get blisters at the tops of my feet despite extended wear.?—?Marissa Miller, former contributing editor
Let me add to the chorus of Teva love in here: They are fantastic. I could never find sandals that can withstand the beach, traveling through airports, walking miles through the streets of New York and everything in between ... until I met these beautiful and colorful magical shoes. The midform is a bit higher than other Teva soles out there but not precariously so, and give just the right enough of height so I don't feel like my toes are dangerously close to dirty sidewalks or subway platforms. I've had them for well over a year now, and they still look and feel just like they did out of the box. — Rachel Lubitz, former senior lifestyle editor
Some things never change — the iconic navy-and-white striped Adidas slides are one of those things. This is actually my second pair (the first was a hand-me-down from my cousin that was about two sizes too big), but now that they fit me, it’s clear that these no-fuss slip-ons are classic for a reason. —?Chelsea Stone, editorial director
These flip-flops are a smart, minimalist option for a beach vacation, since they pack down flat and go with any outfit. They’re available in a ton of neutrals, whether you’re looking to match your summer tan or go for a nice complementary shade. —?Caroline Curran, former associate editor
