For those looking for a stylish and comfortable way to stay on their feet while running errands, going out to dinner, or just casually walking around the neighborhood, a pair of casual walking sandals might be the perfect solution. Whether you’re looking for a sandal that has minimal straps and buckles, or something a bit more sophisticated to dress up your footwear collection, there’s a walking sandal for you out there. Here, we’ll discuss what to look for when shopping for the perfect sandal as well as some tips for choosing the right size, and finally, care and maintenance tips to keep your new walking sandal in tip-top shape.
What to Look for in a Comfortable Walking Sandal
When choosing the perfect casual walking sandal, you’ll want to think about what features are important to have for lasting comfort. First, look at the type of sole. A flat sole with plenty of cushioning can provide arch support when you’re walking, while a shoe with an elevated heel is more suitable for taking longer strides. Pay attention to the types of materials used in the sandal construction – leather or canvas uppers will provide more ventilation, while synthetic materials may be more breathable but hold less air. This is especially important if you’ll be wearing the shoes in hotter climates.
Comfort Features to Consider When Buying Sandals
In addition to the construction materials, you should consider the straps or buckles on the sandal. A well-secured strap ensures that you don’t have to constantly adjust your sandal mid-stride. If your sandal has straps or buckles, you should try them on to make sure they’re properly secure. Some extra comfort features on a walking sandal to consider include an extra cushioning layer in the midsole, a heel counter that helps cushion and support your heels, and a contoured footbed that allows your foot to arch naturally. These features can help make walking in sandals that much more comfortable.
Finding Stylish Casual Sandals That Match Your Wardrobe
To ensure you have the most stylish sandals, look for ones that match your wardrobe. Consider the other items in your wardrobe and choose a style of sandal that complements them. If you have more laid-back items like chinos and a t-shirt, you could opt for a strappy or minimalist design. For a more formal look with trousers and a blazer, subtler buckles or even a full-on slide-on sandal might work. Ask yourself what type of style best matches your wardrobe and dress around it.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size of Walking Sandal
The right size is always important when it comes to footwear. When buying online, it’s important to check the size chart first – these will tell you both US and EU sizing, as well as width sizes. With any luck, you should be able to find your size, including half sizes where applicable. If you’re shopping in stores, try on different sizes until you find one that fits perfectly.
Popular Brands of Casual Walking Sandals
When it comes to casual walking sandals, several big brands have made their mark in the industry. Clark’s has long been known for their comfortable and stylish sandals, which are made from high-quality leather and feature an arch-supporting footbed. Birkenstock makes some of the best-selling sandals around, with their trademark contoured design providing superior arch support and cushioning. Crocs is another great choice for everyday wear; their sandals are lightweight and water-resistant as well as budget-friendly.
Where to Shop for Quality Walking Sandals
So where’s the best place to purchase quality walking sandals? Many department stores, shoe stores, and online retailers offer a selection of styles and brands. For something more unique or luxe, designer and boutique stores might be the best bet. There are also many specialized retailers offering designer lines from established names like Taos, Alegria, and Naot.
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Casual Walking Sandals
Before buying a pair of casual walking sandals, it’s important to consider their advantages and disadvantages. Full-strap sandals could offer more ankle support but could also be a bit constricting. Minimalist designs might not offer as much stability but could look sleeker and feel less restrictive – plus they’re easier to get on and off. Lastly, there’s flip-flops – they provide very little support but are incredibly easy to slip on and off. So pick according to your needs.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Your New Walking Sandal
To keep your new walking sandals in top condition for years to come, you need to take proper care of them. Before wearing them out for the first time, apply a waterproofing agent to the upper material; this will help reduce damage from spills and other forms of moisture. You should also routinely clean them using cold water and a mild soap; use a soft brush for any tougher stains. When storing your sandals, keep them away from direct sunlight or any other sources of heat; this will help preserve their shape and color.
Now that you know what to look for when shopping for casual walking sandals, you can keep your feet comfortable and stylish while running errands or taking walks – but it pays to do your research (and measure your feet!) before you make any purchases.
