22 best walking sandals for women, reviewed by a podiatrist

If you’re not familiar with Woden, let us introduce you. The Scandinavian brand takes a sustainable approach to footwear, designing shoes for urban living from sustainable materials.

With a Scandi design influence, they don’t skip out on style and these leopard-print sandals prove that. We love the little gold tabs on the straps for a luxe take on the hiking sandal trend, while the neutral colour palette will take you effortlessly through summer days and nights.

We love Ancient Greek Sandals' neutral colour palette and minimal design aesthetic, and these Anastasia sandals are no exception.

Handcrafted using centuries-old techniques to ensure they stand a lot of wear, the cushioned suede sole makes for a comfortable fit while slim leather straps ensure adequate foot and ankle support. They'd look just as chic with shorts as they would tailored trousers or a summer dress.

Black is eternally chic, instantly elevating the humble walking sandal. Warm-weather style and supportive comfort combine in this Skechers pair, featuring a contoured Goga Mat footbed, lightweight cushioning and Comfort Pillar Technology for added support. Win win!

Who doesn't love a spring in their step? These chunky sandals feature a thick sole for added height and style. The platform EVA outsole is also a practical design feature, as it's lightweight and shock absorbent too. Plus, it comes in a chic off-white hue, velcro straps are made from 100% recycled PET (a type of plastic) and there's added padding for comfort.

We’ve literally never seen a Birkenstock we didn’t like and the Florida Flex Platform is no exception. Designed with the supple Birko-Flor synthetic upper and moulded footbed, they’ll make stomping around the city or strolling along the beach hella comfy.

The epitome of adventurous, outdoor-inspired style, Flower Mountain fuses cutting-edge technology with fashion-forward flourishes for shoes that are as cute as they are functional.

Crafted in Japan, these ultra-lightweight chic black hike tech sandals are complete with adjustable webbing straps and a thick, signature-lugged sole to ensure grip on any surfaces your summer adventures take you to.

There's a reason Teva has made this edit twice. The brand totally lead the way with summer sandals that look good and feel good on your feet.

The retro '90s print and adjustable criss-cross straps on the Mountain Mosaic style, matched with a cushioned and flexible EVA sole, make for maximum comfort and style. Plus, they're sustainable as they're made from at least 50% eco-conscious fibres. What's not to love?

Now, we're not suggesting you go for a hike in these but UGG's GoldenRise Sandals are a treat for the eyes and the feet.

Crafted with UGG's cushioned footbed, robust outsole and an ankle strap for added stability, these baddies have a dreamy punk-robot aesthetic we’re totally into – and are perfect for all-day wear.

These Adidas sandals practically define durability and stability. They're built to keep you stable on slick surfaces and offer maximum grip on slippery docks or wet rocks, so if it's a summer by the lake planned for you then slip on these and start exploring. Cute and practical? Love.

Birkenstocks are *the* unanimously loved summer sandal. Available in many different styles, the Arizona two-strap clog sandal is our personal favourite – and the fash pack's too.

The premium cork-latex footbed also moulds to the foot for an orthopaedic fit. Try styling yours with socks on days when it's not *quite* warm enough to brave open toes.

Merrell's ultra-comfortable and ultra-stylish hiking sandals are not only great for long days of walking. This particularly durable, water-friendly pair is also ideal for beach days and exploring near the sea – or any rivers, lakes and ponds.

Developed with advanced construction techniques, the lightweight style features a soft midsole and a contoured arch for support.

We're not sure how on board we are with the term "shandals" but, luckily, The North Face's lightweight shoe-sandal hybrid is by far cool enough to convince us otherwise. Intended for hiking, the fashion-forward shoe features an adjustable quick cord lace, plus, a hook-and-loop strap at your heel for an advanced comfy, secure fit.

If you're looking to tackle trails in these, rest assured the contoured EVA footbed will hug your feet with a topo texture to prevent any slipping, leaving you feeling stable and comfy all day.

Calling all Dr. Martens superfans – for those of us who live in DMs, swap out your lace-up boots for the Garin sandals as soon as the hot weather hits. Complete with adjustable buckle straps and their iconic yellow stitching, this is the fisherman-style we will be living in all summer.

If you haven't discovered Japanese brand Suicoke yet, you're missing out. Known for their innovative designs and inventive approach to footwear, they sure know how to nail a comfy shoe. The multi-strap style features an adjustable fit and padding at the back of the heel.

Plus, the salmon pink hue and monochrome split sole are such a cute combo we're practically calling for summer to begin. Time to get walking!

Packing light for your next city break? You can't go wrong with a classic black sandal, not just for keeping it clean after long walks but also for its fashion longevity. ECCO's premium puffy leather sandals takes city chic "offroad" and makes sure your tootsies are plenty padded with every step.

With a stable rubber outsole that offers plenty of traction on all terrain and a shock-absorbing and cushioned mid-sole, add these to your suitcase stat.

Okay, forget any reservation we had to the "shandal", we're now fully converted. Hoka's Hopara shoes are what outdoorsy dreams are made of and they're stylish to boot in this cloud grey shade. From trail walks to running they boast a cushion EVA midsole, quick cord lace design and a toe cap – all whilst staying super breathable. Consider us sold.

Who said walking sandals had to be boring neutrals? Skechers has upped the ante with an eye-catching Barbie pink hue. The film may have long passed but our love for the shade isn't going anywhere.

These really are giving "hiking Barbie" vibes complete with a cushion 'Yoga Foam' footbed and their signature Skech-Air midsole. Perfect timing, given May is National Walking Month. Just try and lose your friends on your woodland walk in these vivid sandals.