The Best Sandals for Foot Pain Relief

Sandals are a summer essential, but many lack the support needed for all-day comfort—especially for those dealing with foot pain. Whether you suffer from plantar fasciitis, arthritis, flat feet, or bunions, the right pair of sandals can make a huge difference. Here’s how to choose supportive sandals and the best options for foot pain relief.

What to Look for in Sandals for Foot Pain Relief

1. Arch Support

Flat, flimsy sandals can lead to overpronation and foot strain. Look for sandals with built-in arch support to maintain proper alignment and reduce stress on your feet, knees, and back.

2. Cushioned Footbed

A contoured, cushioned footbed absorbs shock and reduces pressure on sensitive areas. Materials like memory foam, EVA foam, or cork provide excellent comfort.

3. Adjustable Straps

Sandals with adjustable straps ensure a secure fit without pinching or restricting circulation. This is especially important for those with swelling, bunions, or high arches.

4. Deep Heel Cup

A deep heel cup helps stabilize the foot, reducing strain on the heel and Achilles tendon. It also helps with conditions like plantar fasciitis by keeping your foot properly positioned.

5. Shock Absorbing Sole

A thick, supportive sole with shock absorption protects your joints and prevents discomfort when walking on hard surfaces.

6. Non-Slip Outsole

Traction is key, especially for outdoor wear. A rubber outsole with good grip prevents slipping and improves stability.

Best Sandals for Foot Pain Relief

For Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain:

• Olukai Ohana – Anatomical footbed and supported arch help reduce heel strain while being water-ready.

• Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed – Deep heel cup and contoured cork-latex footbed support your arches and cradle the heel for stability.

For Arthritis & Joint Pain:

• Oofos OOriginal Sandal – OOfoam midsole absorbs impact and cradles the arch, dramatically decreasing shock through feet, knees, and hips.

• Keen Newport H2 – Durable sport sandal with roomy toe box, secure straps, and a stable midsole to control motion and ease joint pain. 

For Flat Feet & Overpronation:

• Birkenstock Milano – Full-strap design helps hold the foot in alignment while offering arch and heel control.

• ECCO Yucatan Sandal – Multi-adjustable straps and molded footbed help keep flat feet supported and reduce pronation stress.

For Wide Feet & Bunions:

• HOKA Ora Recovery Slide – Thick cushioning and a rocker geometry help reduce pressure, giving more space for stressed joint areas.

• Dunham Newport Slide – Two adjustable hook-and-loop straps plus cushioned footbed; lets you adjust tightness around bunion areas for comfort.

Additional Tips for Comfortable Sandal Wear

• Break Them In – Wear new sandals for short periods to allow your feet to adjust.

• Choose the Right Size – Ensure your foot sits comfortably within the footbed without hanging over the edges.

• Use Orthotic Inserts – If your sandals don’t have enough support, consider adding an orthotic insole.

• Avoid Completely Flat Sandals – Flip-flops with no support can worsen foot pain over time.

Finding the right sandals for foot pain relief can transform your warm-weather experience. Prioritize support, cushioning, and adjustability to keep your feet happy and pain-free.