The Best Sandals for Women
A great pair of sandals is part of any summer wardrobe, but all those straps and buckles can be a nightmare for your feet's comfort. Nobody wants to end up with throbbing feet, blisters, or hot spots.
We've purchased and tested dozens of pairs of sandals since 2016, with 17 top contenders in our current lineup. We tested these side-by-side over many months, partaking in miles of urban hiking, backcountry tours, neighborhood strolls, backpacking trips, bike rides, trail runs, and paddling trips. We rate each model on its comfort, traction, and stability, adjusting and readjusting them repeatedly to assess every nuance. Whether you're looking for a great rafting sandal or something cute for vacation, we've got you covered.
Our team's favorite sandal is the Chaco Z/Cloud 2. This is a versatile adventure sandal offering stability, good traction, and lots of colors to choose from. For a great budget option, check out the Teva Original Universal. Barefoot enthusiasts should check out the lightweight Xero Z-Trail EV.
Want something a bit more casual and easier to slip on and off? See our favorite flip flops for women. Check out our review of water shoes for dedicated water sports. We've also tested other kinds of useful footwear, including women's hiking shoes and top trail running shoes for women, selecting our favorites along the way. When it's time to relax, see our picks for women's slippers.
Editor's Note: We updated our women's sandals article on February 24, 2025, to share more details from our testing process.
Related: The Best Sandals for Men