8 Best Arch Support Sandals for 2025, According to Podiatrists

Photo credit: www.self.com

The era of uncomfortable footwear is behind us, making way for sandals that combine comfort and style, particularly those featuring essential arch support. The right sandals not only allow your feet to breathe but also provide significant support for prolonged activities like walking or standing.

According to podiatrist Amy DeGirolamo, DPM, effective arch support can enhance comfort and help prevent discomfort associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis. Even individuals who do not experience pain can benefit from structured sandals, particularly if they have flat feet.

This guide features stylish and certified options, recommended by experts and editors alike, that will inspire you to wear them often.

Our Top Choices

In this article

AccordionItemContainerButton

Find the Best Sandals with Arch Support

If you’re looking to elevate your summer strolls, here are some of our top picks for sandals that provide excellent arch support.

Best Overall: Chaco Z/1 Classic Sandals

Nick Cutri, DPT, a physical therapist and founder of MOTI Physiotherapy, highlights the Chaco sandals for their supportiveness paired with a minimalist design. The footbed of the Z/1 Classic is designed to contour to your foot, featuring a raised arch that has earned the seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). This certification signifies that it’s a well-designed sandal endorsed by foot specialists.

One editor remarked, “I appreciate the Chaco Classic for their versatility in hikes and walks.” Another editor mentioned their use for dog walking, praising their firm yet flexible nature and the adjustable straps that accommodate narrow feet.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Weight: 11 oz

Best for Hiking: Teva Hurricane XLT2

Teva

Hurricane XLT2 Sandal

Teva is another renowned brand for supportive outdoor sandals. Dr. Cutri noted that some have made the trek through challenging terrains like the Grand Canyon. The Hurricane XLT2 model is particularly favored, with one reviewer calling it her “go-to choice for all outdoor activities.”

This sandal proved resilient, enduring hikes through the Austrian countryside and cobblestone paths without any signs of wear, indicating its durability and trail readiness.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 5 to 14 | Widths: medium | Weight: 7.75 ounces

Best for Wide Feet: Birkenstock Milano Big Buckle Sandal

Birkenstock

Milano Big Buckle Sandal

Birkenstock sandals are known for their wide-fit design. An editor remarked on the importance of extra space, saying, “With wide feet and high arches, I need shoes that allow my feet to expand during the day.” The Milano model features a foam and cork footbed that molds to your feet over time, offering ample room and breathability for all-day wear.

Additionally, the design includes attractive buckles and an adjustable backstrap, making it both functional and stylish.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 5-5.5 to 10-10.5 | Widths: medium | Weight: N/A

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Kuru Current Water Sandal

Nicholas Japs, DPT, a physical therapist, highly recommends Kuru sandals for individuals dealing with plantar fasciitis. The sandals are equipped with contoured, heel-hugging, shock-absorbing insoles that provide significant support.

The Kuru Current also features optimal cushioning and an outsole with deep treads for stability and comfort during various activities.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Widths: medium | Weight: 8.90 ounces

Best House Shoe: Vionic Rejuvenate

Recommended by Dr. Cutri, Dr. DeGirolamo, and Paulina Piekarska, DPM, the Vionic Rejuvenate sandals are great for those seeking supportive house shoes. One editor noted that they have effectively replaced her fuzzy slippers due to their enhanced support. The Rejuvenate sandals offer excellent arch support and an adjustable Velcro strap for a customized fit.

Durability is also a feature, as the thick outsole ensures protection during outdoor activities.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 5 to 14 | Widths: medium | Weight: 9 ounces

Most Adjustable: Naot Enid

Naot’s Enid sandals boast a simple yet chic design, making them versatile. One tester highlighted their favorite aspect: the adjustable straps—one across the toes and another on top of the foot—which along with a removable cork footbed, cater to customization. Notably, the instep strap has a stretchy design that moves with the foot, preventing discomfort during walks.

Padded straps enhance the comfort level, making them ideal for extended use.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 4-4.5 to 11-11.5 | Widths: medium | Weight: N/A

Best for Travel: Sorel Viibe

Among Sorel’s offerings, the Viibe model is distinguished by its thick insole and supportive footbed. The cushioned foam design ensures comfort with each step, while the lightly padded straps prevent chafing or blistering.

Offering a blend of style and functionality, it pairs well with casual summer outfits and is light enough to be a travel essential.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Widths: medium | Weight: 8.35 ounces

Most Protective: Keen Rose

Recommended by multiple experts, the Keen Rose model is favored for its breathable and protective features. Suitable for wear around town or in water, this sandal is designed to offer quick-drying capabilities and a rugged outsole for traction.

The inclusion of a rubber toe cap enhances safety for adventurous activities, protecting your toes from potential injuries as you navigate various terrains.

AccordionItemContainerButtonAccordionItemContainerButton

Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Widths: medium | Weight: 9 ounces

How to Identify Supportive Sandals

To find supportive sandals, consider how well they fit the shape of your foot. High arches require extra midfoot elevation for proper support, while flat feet benefit from a comfortable footbed with a lower rise. Ensuring that your feet feel secure and supported is crucial.

Balance between flexibility and firmness is essential as well. Footwear too rigid can be uncomfortable, while overly flexible designs may lack the necessary stability. To assess this, try folding or bending the sandals; ease of movement may indicate insufficient support.

Looking for the APMA seal of approval can also be beneficial; it indicates that podiatrists have verified the design’s health benefits for your feet.

How We Curated Our Selection of Sandals with Arch Support

Our evaluations incorporate input from editors who have tested various sandals for everyday wear. Feedback from those who rely on these products for outdoor activities helped refine our selections as the sandals were tested in numerous scenarios such as walking, hiking, biking, and navigating busy urban environments.

Podiatrist recommendations also played a vital role in our selection, offering insights on what features to prioritize in sandals that provide arch support, enriching the final list.

Related:

Stay updated with SELF’s valuable product recommendations delivered to your inbox at no cost!

Source
www.self.com