City Sandals
Options that can take you from 10K-20K steps while still looking chic
Finding the perfect city sandal — one that can handle a full day of walking and still look chic — is harder than it should be. So here we are.
This is one of my favorite topics, both as someone who loves accessories and as a designer who zeroes in on the details: material quality, thoughtful construction, and the overall aesthetic.
There are so many sandals out there — beautiful, delicate, strappy works of art that I can only wear in my dreams. Then there are, much to my dismay, more than a few options that miss the mark completely. Maybe the proportions are off, or the upper doesn’t make sense with the outsole or footbed, or something about them just feels… ick.
And then — there are the unicorns. The sandals that do it all. They look great, flatter the foot, pair effortlessly with everything, and most importantly, they’re actually walkable. No Uber needed. Happy feet, happy day.
I started researching purely out of personal need — filling specific gaps in my summer wardrobe. Between last year and this one, I test-drove more than 20 pairs… and returned 17.
I have particular feet: a little wide, a little sensitive, quicker to tire than I’d like to admit. So this list won’t be one-size-fits-all — but it’s shaped by the following real-life criteria:
A versatile design that works from playground to cocktails
A footbed that’s actually comfortable (relative to the look)
Straps that don’t rub, pinch, or blister
Here are my top picks across a few key walkability categories…
Heavyweight (10-20k Steps)
I recently discovered these slides in a Substack chat, and they’re definitely a winner. The slip-on design is a huge bonus when you’re rushing out the door and don’t want to deal with ties or buckles.
They feature a molded comfort footbed, a minimal and versatile upper, and asymmetric straps that add just the right amount of interest. The lightweight rubber outsole gives them a soft, bouncy feel that makes them perfect for pretty much anything.
They pair effortlessly with shorts or denim, but look just as good with a dress or a chic pair of trousers. There are also a few other styles built on the same footbed that I love, depending on the vibe you’re going for.
I’ve also had my eye on this pair, that a reader suggested to the group.
For a sportier look, Jess King recommends these as spotted on Mary Kate Olsen. I think they do a great job at passing as a designer sandal if you don’t get too close lol.
swears by this pair from Marni.
I have a different version of these sandals from A.Emery, and they are high quality, comfortable, durable and built for walking for miles. This particular pair has slimmer straps, and the ankle strap makes it feel a little more polished.
swears by this pair that I’m now considering trying out — great for someone who wants a little more coverage and is averse to a toe post. (use code 20LOVE this weekend)
In my deep dive across a wide range of brands — high and low — I came across these beauties. I love the thin, flat straps paired with the tonal rectangular buckles. The slim profile of the matching footbed also adds a refined touch, making a comfort sandal feel a little less “comfortable” looking — in the best way. Elevated, minimal, and thoughtfully designed.
Loeffler Randall is always a solid go-to for summer footwear, and I’m especially into these crochet slides. The texture and contrasting pattern add just the right amount of interest — perfect for pairing with a minimal, clean outfit on top.
I’ve had several pairs of these over the years, and I feel like most people I know, including my husband and children live in these all summer long. The EVA material is cushy, waterproof, shock-absorbent, durable and the upper is a classic, that many have emulated. I have them in white and black, and my friend Melissa wore them in a fun butter yellow last week in Palm Beach. They’re not the best when you’re looking for something a little more polished, but there’s no denying they’re comfortable — they’re a workhorse.
I also have a pair of these slides by Fleks made from recycled foam, and they are bouncier and cushier than the Birks!
Another reader suggests these slides that fit into this camp.
We’ve all seen the paracord thong sandals from Miu Miu — and while I don’t personally own a pair, I’ve heard plenty of first-hand reviews raving about their comfort. Just look at that padded footbed! Add a rubber outsole for a sporty, shock-absorbent feel, and a velcro backstrap for an adjustable fit — it’s easy to see the appeal.
A reader pointed me to a lookalike that’s significantly more affordable but nearly identical in style. Sometimes a good dupe really is the way to go. It also comes in a range of colors and variations.
If you’re not into thong styles, Miu Miu’s latest version offers a bit more coverage — a great alternative for the thong-averse.
Middleweight (recommend 5-10k steps)
This one came as a reader recommendation from
— and I was already curious. I had a rubber version of this style from Ancient Greek Sandals years ago, so I ordered a pair to try for myself, and I have to say: I’m impressed with the construction.They have just the right amount of padding — enough to feel like your feet are being cared for, but not so much that they veer into orthopedic territory. They're lightweight with a rubber sole, which adds to the wearability.
I’m placing these in the Middleweight category because, for me, the thinner straps aren’t ideal for all-day walking. That said, Lauren swears by them for 20K steps — so comfort really comes down to your foot shape and personal preferences.
is evangelical about this pair and walked 17k steps for multiple days in Italy. I am also looking at trying these ones on the same comfy footbed.
I am dying to try these out. I love that you can wear them without the beads if you’re not feeling it that day. The footbed looks padded, comfortable, and wide enough. I’m not sure if the footbed will get slippery though? If anyone has these, can you share your thoughts? Otherwise, I’ll have to go try them on in person.
Okay, I saw that
mentioned she could clock a full day’s worth of steps in this pair — always a good sign. She recommends going a half size down. can attest to their sandal footbed being A++++!I’ll be ordering a pair for myself soon — I love the padded footbed paired with the illusion of a sleek, low profile sole.
Lightweight (3-5k Steps)
The moment I saw these, I hit "add to cart." I went with the brown pair since my closet is already well-stocked with black options.
What really drew me in is the heritage vibe and the sacchetto construction — meaning the upper and footbed are crafted from a single piece of leather, with no seams. It allows the shoe to wrap around the foot like a glove.
There’s a bit of padding, though the sole is quite flat. A hidden snap under each strap (including the backstrap) adds a nice touch of functionality. I'd say these are great for moderate walking or standing — just not an all-day-on-your-feet kind of sandal.
I came across these during one of my endless sandal scroll sessions — and instantly fell in love. They’re delicate, minimal, and I love a slide. Sometimes I’m just not in the mood to deal with buckles — I want to slip something on and go.
In the summer, I like my feet to feel free, and these strike that perfect balance: elevated enough to dress up, but still comfortable enough for an evening stroll. No cab required.
I love a good flip flop. I have several pairs — Havaianas, Locals, and a squared-toe style I own in two colorways. But sometimes, they can feel a little too beachy for everyday wear.
I’m always drawn to pieces that balance utility with a touch of luxury, and this pair nails it. The sleek black footbed with contrast stitching, paired with slim, slightly tapered suede straps, gives it just enough polish. They’re also a bit wider at the toe — which, personally, I really appreciate. (I wouldn’t call these the most walkable sandals, but they sure are pretty).
I also wanted to include a few other reader suggestions in case they’re helpful:
- loves this line of shoes by About Ariane
- is a fan of these Freda Salvador fisherman sandals
- suggests St. Agni sandals
- recommends Cydwok
Another reader lives in this sporty option from Chaco
What else is missing on this list?
Anything else you’d like me to dig into for all of us??
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Came to read this immediately after seeing your Instagram post. Exactly what I love. A walkable and stylish sandal!!
I swear by Birkenstocks for 15-20k days in the city, but they definitely feel heavy this summer compared to what’s out there! I actually just moved my black Haviana’s from the pool bag to my closet and wore them out and about yesterday! I can’t do flip flops/thong sandals of any kind though for any long distance, so I love some of the alts you sourced. Those Mius Mius especially are so good, gah.