30 Shoes That’ll Get You Through All Your Summery Outdoor Activities From Tubing To Hiking To Seashell Hunting
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Because your feet are about to take you through all your big summer plans.
Posted 19 hours ago
by Elizabeth Lilly BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff
As a Deputy Editorial Director for BuzzFeed’s shopping team, I love to get into the weeds of why a product’s worth the money by deep diving into customer reviews, and product-testing as much as possible.
You're no stranger to summer fun, but maybe after last week's cliff hike, your poor feet are begging for some upgraded footwear. Well, we've got you from breathable sneakers you can wear to that new run club you joined to comfy sandals that you can take from a water park to meandering beach walks...and so many other things. After all, when you've got the right footwear for your plans, you can enjoy what you're doing instead of concentrating on foot pain!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Purchased three pairs for our cruise. We all loved them. Best water shoes I’ve ever worn. Feels like you are barefoot but keeps your feet safe from anything you step on. Very comfortable! Highly recommended!" —Donna M
Get it from Amazon for $8.68+ (available in seven sizes and 49 colors).
Sally Elshorafa / BuzzFeed
My colleague Sally Elshorafa loves these: "My family just got back from a spring break trip to an indoor waterpark, and my kids did not take these off the entire time. I could tell right away that both of them, ages 2.5 and 4, had a much better grip on the ground in the wave pool, and they were able to run around playing water basketball in the shallow end of the big-kid pool without constantly slipping all over the place. That alone sold me, but I also loved the peace of mind of not having their bare feet touching approximately 4,000 damp public waterpark surfaces.
They were easy to get on and off, but stayed put once they were on, which is exactly what you want with little kids who are somehow always one wrong move away from losing a shoe. They were also so comfortable that neither of my kids messed with them, complained about them, or tried to take them off, which honestly says a lot. In the summer, my kids usually wear Crocs to the pool and then immediately ditch them when they get in, which means I'm eventually wandering around looking for a rogue little shoe. I already know these are going to be our go-to instead. They seem durable enough to last all summer, and when my kids size up, I'll buy the exact same pair again."
Promising review: "I bought these shoes for my toddler to wear to play outside and at the pool. She loves them and doesn’t want to take them off. They are easy to put on as the fabric stretches. The Velcro holds its grip without coming undone too easily. I love that they are breathable so her feet do not get hot. " —Rachel
Get it from Amazon for $15.95+ (available in six sizes and 44 colors and patterns).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "Like acloud!!☁️ These are the most comfortable shoes I have worn; it feels like a pillow hugging your foot. The same day they were delivered, I ordered another pair in a different color. I’m a healthcare worker, and these are perfect for standing and being on your feet a lot. Walking feels very smooth and low-impact. I never leave reviews on anything, but these are amazing." —Ian Durham
Get them from Amazon for $69.99 (available in sizes 5.5–11 and eight colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
FYI, these are best suited for narrow to medium-sized feet.
Promising reviews: "I literally got compliments on them everywhere we went, and they were so comfortable I could wear them all day walking miles and miles through the streets of New Orleans, and my feet didn't hurt (and that's a small miracle given I have arthritis). They are surprisingly durable, and the woven fabric tops are incredibly soft and comfy. Even when my feet swelled due to the heat and humidity in New Orleans, these were still pretty darn comfy as compared to other shoes I brought along on the trip." —UrbanUtah
"These sandals are like cotton candy clouds for your feet. Basically the Rolls-Royce of sandals." —A. Alphonse
Get them from Amazon for $34.95 (available in sizes 5–11 and 22 colors).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
They have the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so you know they're legit!
Promising review: "Amazingly comfortable! I have a hard time wearing flip-flops because they give little or no support. However, these flip-flops are so supportive that I walked four miles in them without even thinking about my feet!" —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $33.90+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 18 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "These are a perfect sneaker for leggings, dresses, shorts, anything really. This is my third pair. The memory foam makes these sneakers feel like you're walking on clouds. I have been buying a pair every spring for the last 3 years. They hold up to all types of weather." —Danielle Tricomi
"These shoes were recommended as comfortable walking shoes. They absolutely are the best! I bought these shoes to have a stylish, casual shoe for a NYC/DC seven-day tour. I walked an average of 7–8 miles a day, even in a downpour. Not a single blister or pain of any kind. If you are searching for stylish, casual, and comfortable, then these are it. Easy on and off, water-resistant, and coordinates with all outfits." —S. Lee
Get them from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 4–14, including wide sizes, and in 16 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "These shoes are absolutely amazing! As an educator, I’m on my feet for about 10 hours a day, so I need shoes that allow me to walk and even run, comfortably when needed. These truly feel like I’m walking on clouds. They are incredibly comfortable and supportive. By far the best purchase I’ve made for my feet! 🙌 Totally recommend." —Cintia
Get them from Amazon for $46.95+ (available in sizes 4–13, including wide and extra-wide sizes, and various styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These are the kind of flip flops you reach for every day. They’re lightweight, super cushioned, and comfortable enough to wear for hours without my feet feeling tired. I bought them for quick errands and pool days, but ended up wearing them far more than I expected. The neutral color goes with just about everything, and they still look cute while being practical. If comfort is your priority, these are worth it." —Victoria C.
Price: $26.90 (available in women's sizes 5.5–11 and 32 styles)
Bombas
Promising reviews: "So freaking comfy!!! You will not regret ordering a pair of these! Bought for pool and resort wear for the summer vacation and can already tell I’m going to wear these all the time. So bright and colorful as well." —Erzsi S.
"Planning on taking these shoes on a cruise. They are comfy and should stay on well even when wet due to the textured grippy sole." —Kelley H.
Get them from Bombas for $50 (available in women's sizes 5–11 and nine colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought these sandals before a three-week trip in Europe; I didn't want to pay for Birks but did want something in a similar style with good arch support. I was a little skeptical about the low price, but I gave them a shot...and they were the MOST comfortable sandals I've ever owned. I walked over 120 miles in them in three weeks on our trip and never once had foot pain. They broke in so quickly and were very supportive from the get-go — and still are! Highly recommend." —Han Lin
Get them from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and 20 styles).
The seller recommends checking the size chart, which details the best size for your foot length. Thankfully, the straps are 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 off my feet (a concern I have about sandals without ankle straps). They are excellent value. Get 'em!" —MelRay
Get them from Amazon for $18.99 (available in sizes 6–10 and two colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BuzzFeed editor Jenae Sitzes has and loves these! She said, "It's recommended to go up a half size in these boots to accommodate thicker hiking socks, and I found that to be true when I picked up these shoes myself — I'm normally an 8 but found an 8.5 in these to be totally comfortable. I also found that they hold up well even on my first hike — though I did still have some soreness around my heel area. This was after a hard, 7+-mile hike with lots of rocks and climbing, so I don't blame the shoes. They felt comfortable right out of the box and super supportive when I was clambering over rocks and rough terrain. And though I only stepped in water a couple of times briefly, my socks stayed dry, too."
Promising reviews: "What else can I say other than I LOVE THESE HIKING BOOTS!!? They're literally the most comfortable and sturdy shoes I've ever had, and made several full days of hiking through different types of terrain a breeze. The high ankle support is great for rocky areas and they're definitely waterproof. I figured Columbia would be the way to go, and I was not disappointed!" —M
Get them from Amazon for $64.96+ (available in sizes 5–12, two widths, and two colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought these to replace a pair of Chacos in the same style that were at least 11 years old, that I'd had resoled once before. You can actually hike rugged trails in these sandals, and they are the only sandal I've ever owned where I had no concerns putting them on in the morning expecting a full day on my feet. San Francisco Bay Area trails, muddy hikes in Hawaii, cobbled streets in Europe, all good. Also great for wearing into the ocean or a lake with a rocky beach. These fit true to size, I am usually a 9 and the 9 regular fits perfectly. I have never had any issues with the straps rubbing uncomfortably except if I wear them into salt water and don't do a great job of washing off the salt and sand afterward. I really can't recommend these enough if you are going to do anything even vaguely active in a warm climate, even just walking 5 miles around the city. I expect this pair to last another 10 years. When you look at how much they cost, it seems on the expensive side 'for sandals,' but the quality and value is top notch." —sarah b
Get them from Amazon for $98.93 (available in sizes 5–14 and in 19 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
FYI: Many reviewers suggest sizing down!
Promising reviews: "So, I bought these for a vacay I was taking to Texas. I knew I’d be doing a lot of walking in hot weather. They were AMAZING. Even better than I had hoped. Here’s what I did in them: [used as] shower shoes, water shoes in a river, mild hiking, walked at least a few miles, danced, and even used electric scooters. Not one issue! They were more comfortable and softer than any other shoes I have. I had been wearing regular flat sandals on the first day, and by the end of the day, I had two big blisters. So, day two, I wore these sandals, and I couldn’t even feel the blisters. I joked that I felt like these sandals were my 'power up' for the trip!" —Stacey
Get them from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in women's sizes 4–16, men's sizes 3–14, and 15 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Walking on cushiony clouds!!! I LOVE Crocs but I don’t love the look of them when I wear summer outfits. These were the jackpot!!! I only wear sandals and flip-flops all summer and these are definitely my new favorite!! Soooo cushiony and comfy!!! I will be buying in more colors!!" —Maven
Get them from Amazon for $29.95+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 14 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Chelsea Stuart says, "These may just be my favorite sandals ever. I am a big platform person so that's what initially sold me but better yet, they're just so freaking comfortable. They have a slight bounce and the straps do. not. rub. so I can wear them for hours on end. Since they're plastic, they can also get wet without issue and they dry off super fast. If you're on the fence because you're a Never Croc-er™ just give 'em a try."
Promising review: "Comfort is paramount when it comes to footwear, and these wedges excel in this aspect. The cushioned Croslite footbed provides exceptional support and cushioning, making every step feel like walking on clouds. Even during long hours of wear, my feet remain comfortable and pain-free. They're also water-resistant and easy to clean. I appreciate the convenience of being able to wear them in various weather conditions without worrying about damage." —Alyssa
Get them from Amazon for $35.71+ (available in sizes 2–11 and 21 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
FYI, aside from their style and comfort, Tevas are *known* for their durability — one reviewer said their last pair lasted for EIGHT YEARS. This isn't your average sandal that falls apart after one season.
According to Amazon reviewers, these tend to run large so consider sizing down, especially if you're usually between sizes.
Promising review: "Got these for both daughters and myself for a beach hike trip. I walked over six miles with them and my feet didn’t hurt; they dry pretty quickly too. They quickly became one of my favorites." —Miss. Customer
Get them from Amazon for $50.41+ (available in sizes 5–14 and many styles). There's also a version available in men's sizes.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These Teva sandals are hands-down my all-time favorite for hiking and outdoor adventures. From the very first wear, they were comfortable — no blisters, no need to break them in. They’re incredibly versatile: I wear them with or without socks, in streams and rivers, on rocky trails and up mountains. The straps adjust easily, the soles provide great grip and support, and the sandals feel lightweight even during long hikes.They dry quickly when wet and hold up well in all kinds of terrain. Durable, reliable, and comfortable — these are the sandals I reach for every time I go outside. I honestly can’t recommend them enough for anyone who loves hiking, walking, or just spending time outdoors." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $64.99+ (available in women's sizes 5–16, men's sizes 3–14, select kid's sizes, and dozens of styles).
Btw, reviewers with plantar fasciitis and flat feet swear by these.
Promising review: "These are a little pricey for rubber flip flops, HOWEVER, they are very much more than just that. I love the arch support, so it doesn’t feel like they’re just flat cardboard. They will definitely last a long time. They’re easy to pack, versatile, and waterproof, making them an awesome shoe for summertime and traveling. I got the black so they stay clean and can be dressed up a little too. Highly recommend, they’re such a good staple shoe!" —Kasey
Get them from Amazon for $40+ (available in sizes 5–16 and in 16 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought these because I like to wear them when I'm at home lounging around. These sandals are comfortable and I can wear them for hours without my wide feet hurting." —RoseO
Get them from Amazon for $18.75 (available in women's sizes 5–19, men's sizes 4–18, and 26 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I love these sandals! They are comfortable, stylish, lightweight, and the straps fit perfectly. I wore them with everything all summer, and they are still in great shape! Now that's a good value!" —Darin Despain
Get them from Amazon for $16.61+ (available in sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and eight colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought these sandals for my first trip to New York. They arrived the day I left for NYC, so I took them out of the box and threw them in my suitcase. I put them on the minute we got there and wore them for FIVE DAYS STRAIGHT! No blisters, no chafing, no problems. They are light, comfortable, and cute! I cannot say enough good things about these lovely sandals. They totally saved my feet, and I put approximately 40 miles on them. Completely recommend!" —Holly K. Palmer
Get them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 16 colors)
Laboo Leather / Etsy
Laboo Leather is a family-owned small biz based in Budapest, Hungary, making handmade leather sandals and wallets. FYI, the straps are actually one long strip of leather you can adjust for the perfect fit!
Promising review: "No matter what I’ll write now, it won’t do Botond’s work justice. These sandals are the greatest thing I ever put on my feet — even though I’ve been wearing barefoot shoes for more than 2.5 years. They take the shoe game to the next level. The fit, the flexibility of not only the sole but the entire sandal with all the possible adjustments, the softness of the leather, the comfort, the quality of it altogether. I’ve worn them several times now and I love them so much! Botond was a dream to work with and helped me figure out what I need. I am so satisfied with the entire process, the communication and the final result. Thank you so so much, Botond, I am so grateful for your time, patience and brilliant work. Can’t wait to order again. 15 out of 10 possible points." —sarahkoe
Get them from Laboo Leather on Etsy for $116.73+ (available in sizes 4–15.5 and nine colors — you can also request a custom size for an additional cost).
Olukai
Promising review: "This is the third pair I’ve purchased in about 15 years. I live in flip-flops (southern California) and wear these shoes out. What eventually gets worn out is the sole, but they last about five years or so. I love the arch support. I have rather high arches though, so if you don’t you might find them uncomfortable. They broke in super easy. Bought my new pair and wore them for two days straight at Disneyland." —Sarah L. De Busk
Get them from Amazon for $80 (available in sizes 5–18 and dozens of styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
My colleague Heather Bragasays: "Reviewers noteto buy these in a size up from your usual shoe size — and I concur. I have these sneakers and am usually about a size 6, but bought these in a 7. They're super comfortable, so comfortable in fact that I wore them to the marathon that was Taylor Swift's The Eras tour. They're easy to get on and off, never hurt the back of my ankles or my toes, and look cute with a variety of outfits."
Promising review: "Love these shoes! I saw them in store at Urban Outfitters but they didn't have my size. Obviously I turned to Amazon because what doesn’t this site sell, and lo-and-behold, y’all had it. I try to pair these with almost every outfit because they’re so comfy and stylish! Recently went to Philly, where I had to walk everywhere because we didn't rent a car and these were only pair of shoes I brought (I travel light). These didn’t cramp up my feet at all as I walked over seven hours daily over the course of five days. Definitely recommend!" —Alli J
Get them from Amazon for $80.99+ (available in women's sizes 5–11 and five styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This is my third pair of these sandals in three years. I keep buying them every year because they are the absolute best sandals I have ever had. I've worn them hiking for hundreds of miles through the Appalachian mountains, worn them to wander through miles of California's redwood forests, 7,000 feet up Mount Rainier, along winding trails at Mount St. Helens, and besides being comfortable and durable enough for all that hiking, they look super cute with a sundress and even very convenient to slip on to go to the grocery store. These sandals deserve ALL the stars and then some." —Lisa2197
Get them from Amazon for $20.19+ (available in sizes 6–10 and 18 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Viakix is a family-owned small footwear business that was founded in 2015 and based in New England.
Promising reviews: "I bought these to travel and wear in a hot environment with 4–7 miles of walking a day. They were fabulous! Comfortable from day one and perfect if you have any foot swelling at the end of a hiking hot day." —Amazon Customer
"The straps are very soft, not itchy and stiff like most sandals. I've had several foot surgeries and require a lot of support, but I also want something cute and affordable. These check all the boxes!" —Cece
Get them from Amazon for $59.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and seven colors).
Promising reviews: "I purchased these sandals to use at a wedding. I was very happy that these sandals were a little more 'strappy' so it didn’t look like I was wearing flip-flops. I have wide feet that can swell, especially after being on them all day. These sandals were roomy enough to accommodate my feet despite the swelling due to travel. A much better option than having to suffer in heels!" —Skylander
"I NEVER write reviews, BUT in this occasion I had to. My feet NEVER, EVER fit in sandals I buy at stores until these. I wear a size 9 in women's shoes and about a size 10 in sandals. The 10 X-Wide size was perfect as well as the straps. I can’t find anything negative about it! Will order in more colors!" —Lorena
Get them from Amazon for $39.99 (available in extra-wide sizes 7–13 and 12 colors).
Birkenstock
Promising review (medium/narrow width): "Great summer flip-flops. This is my third pair of Honolulu EVA flip-flops. I love the arch support. I have several pairs of Birkenstock sandals, but these are my favorite everyday pair." —Andrew T.
Get them from Birkenstock for $34.95 (available in women's sizes 4/4.5–12/12.5 and men's sizes 6/6.5–13/13.5, and four colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "Love, love, love! I have a VERY difficult time finding sandals that fit my narrow foot. These are the most comfortable sandals I've ever owned. I can tighten them to fit my feet and walk for hours. My first pair went to Italy and Greece with me, and it's the only shoe I wore the entire three-week trip. I have started to buy in other colors and currently own three pairs." —Robin A. Laehn
"I wore these for 10 straight hours with over six miles of walking right out of the box and had zero foot pain. I’m 61, and my feet are often achy. I used to wear thong sandals, but can’t stand anything between my toes anymore, so I decided to try these. Now, I want them in every color. They fit true to size and have great arch support. We had to walk down an extremely steep hill, and they had plenty of traction to keep me from slipping." —EGC
Get them from Amazon for $49.95+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and 10 styles).
* Say Goodbye To Blisters And Hello To These 31 Sandals That Are Cute *And* Comfy
* Shoes You Can Wear To All Those Fancy Events On Your Calendar
* If You Hate Wearing Flip-Flops, Here Are 27 Other Comfortable Sandals Reviewers Love
* Flip-Flops And Sandals That Reviewers With Plantar Fasciitis Swear By
* Comfy Sandals That’ll Let Your Little Piggies Breathe
Plus, finds from Amazon, Clarks, DSW, Nordstrom Rack, Walmart, and Zappos.
BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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