Summer practically invites activity, and especially when exercising during warm weather, it can be effective to create an outfit that is both comfortable and functional. If you are going for a walk, you may be tempted to get helpful pair of sneakers (see our favorite choices here), but especially on days when the UV indicator is particularly high and your blisters need some relief from the heat. A good pair of sandals might actually be the way to go.
However, you can’t wear any old flip-flops when you’re spending time on your feet, and a well-fitting sandal that holds your feet in place and supports the arches and sole is going to be important to maintain comfort, even when you’re walking.
Our criteria.
Support is the name of the game when it comes to shoes that you can walk at a distance and it covers all areas of the foot. “One of the most important things I’ve learned to see in sandals is that they have good support on the ball of the foot so they don’t put too much pressure on the submetatarsal area (just before your toes start.) Carrying a lot of weight with your lower ankle. , Explains pediatrician Michael Galloway, DPM.
In ordinary people’s language? Your shoe should not be able to bend to the sole and it should be as stiff as any other pair in your closet.
According to Galloway, the right size is also a major factor in ensuring that your shoes are adequately padded on your feet, yet 50% of the population wears the wrong size shoes.
“There are four dimensions to consider for foot size. You need to measure the length of your arch, your full length, your width and girth and go from there to determine your actual size,” he explains. Believe it or not, the right size shoe can actually be a bit longer, if it fits the other dimensions.
Takeway.
A good sandal is one that allows you to feel supported in both your fastest work run and your longest walk. It is important first and foremost that you are buying the right size shoe (and it can be worth measuring by a professional), but choosing the right one for your special needs can make all the difference.
Prioritizing strong grip and choosing a safe, well-made sandal will make your investment worthwhile when you wear them summer after summer and feel pain free and look as stylish as ever.