We're Fashion Editors in NYC—These Are the Only Sandals That Survive Our Daily Commutes
Ten thousand steps never looked this easy.
If there's one thing New York City has taught us (especially as people who work in fashion), it's that our shoes have to keep up. Between sprinting for trains, dodging slow walkers, and logging thousands of steps to attend press previews without even trying, we've officially become connoisseurs of footwear that goes the distance—without compromising on style. And yes, on a hot summer's day, that includes sandals.
Now, we usually opt for ballet flats or loafers in the summer to avoid the disgusting city streets, but sometimes, it's just too hot for that, and the sandals come out to play. We don't know an editor who doesn't own a pair that's built for walking. We've each spent years testing every pair of shoes that has come through our closets and have narrowed it down to the MVPs that actually survive a New Yorker's commute, from functional styles like Birkenstocks to the kitten heels you can't believe you just walked 10,000 steps in. Whether you're running to an early meeting or squeezing in an impromptu happy hour, these are the sandals that look good, feel great, and can handle a full day on the move. We will be bookmarking this story for our upcoming vacations. See the results below.
Our Top 5 Walking Sandals
- Best Fashion Walking Sandals: Hermès Oran Sandals ($840)
- Best Everyday Walking Sandals: Birkenstock Arizona Suede Slides ($140)
- Best Closed-Toe Walking Sandals: Melissa Possession Jelly Fisherman Sandals ($69)
- Best Athletic Walking Sandals: Teva Hurricane XLT 2 Sandals ($80)
- Best Splurge Walking Sandals: Jil Sander Leather Sandals ($790)
Editors' Picks
"I own the Hermès Oran Sandals in multiple colorways, including black and gold. The H-shaped sandals are finished in smooth leather with the fashion house's iconic stitch details, and their simplicity makes them a versatile piece for the spring and summer months. They're one of the few pairs of sandals I own that hit the sidewalks in NYC, and they're also a mainstay for summer holidays." — Kristen Nichols
Shop Kristen's pick:
Pros: An investment purchase that never goes out of style.
Cons: Pricey.
Size Range: 34–42
Color Options: Infinite
"I first wore these Bobbies Salina sandals nonstop during a solo trip to the South of France and have relied on them ever since. They have a padding sole for comfort, making them surprisingly comfortable for all-day walking, and the simple design goes with literally everything—from linen pants at the market to a dress at dinner. I'm already planning to bring them everywhere in Europe this summer." — Sierra Mayhew
Shop Sierra's pick:
Pros: Very well cushioned.
Cons: The wraparound straps can cause tension on the ankle in the first few wears.
Size Range: 35–42
Color Options: Passion Black, Camel, Oriental Sand
"If you're curious, these are the sandals I wear daily throughout summer in New York City. The delicate straps over the foot and around the ankle and the pointed toe give them an elegant look and feel. I appreciate how the straps gently rest on my foot, preventing rubbing and blisters when I walk my usual 10,000 steps. Additionally, their simple yet chic design makes them versatile enough to wear with jeans, dresses, and skirts. Not to mention, I always receive compliments on them wherever I go." — Nikki Chwatt
Shop Nikki's pick:
Pros: Minimalist sandals are trending.
Cons: Don't provide much coverage, which some might wish to have when commuting.
Size Range: IT35–IT42
Color Options: Cream, Brown, Black
" 
Shop Bobby's pick:
Pros: They go with everything, and the platform adds height.
Cons: Might be too casual for certain dress codes.
Size Range: 7–13
Color Option: Black
"While I don't live in NYC anymore, I visit quite a bit, and during the summer months, packing a pair of comfortable sandals is necessary. The sandals that I pack time and again are the @allypayer Simone Staud. I've never gotten a single blister from them, and the heel height makes them perfect for night or day. They also go with literally everything." — Allyson Payer
Shop Allyson's pick:
Pros: The ideal shoes to own for a vacation.
Cons: The wooden heel makes them a bit too casual for certain occasions.
Size Range: 35–42
Color Options: Cream, Black
"I live and die by my Arizona Birkenstocks! They're incredibly comfortable and practical and give my outfits a cool look. I own them in white, black, and taupe and have my eyes on the cream colorway for my next purchase. I couldn't live without them!" — Judith Jones
Shop Judith's pick:
Pros: A tested and proven style that has thousands of positive reviews.
Cons: Sizing can be a bit tricky to get right with the molded footbed.
Size Range: 5–10
Color Options: Antique White, Cognac, Khaki, and several other colors
"I practically lived in these last spring and summer. Seriously, I wore them almost every day. As someone who's extremely quick to complain when shoes hurt (I have high arches, and I gave up on high heels a long time ago), I don't say this lightly: These are truly walkable. The 1 3/4–inch heel gives just enough lift without sacrificing comfort, and I've worn them everywhere—from casual walks to weddings." — Audry Hiaoui
Shop Audry's pick:
Pros: Padded soles and strap.
Cons: They run narrow.
Size Range: 5–11
Color Options: Black, White, Beige, Printed, Brown
"I live in these effortless fashion person–approved slide sandals come warmer weather. They aren't fancy, but they are super practical and versatile since they are comfy and easy to clean and can be worn with a variety of looks. The $50 price tag is also a major plus." — Jennifer Camp Forbes
Shop Jennifer's pick:
Pros: Weatherproof.
Cons: A more casual style that might not meet certain restaurants' dress codes.
Size Range: 4–10
Color Options: Black, Metallic, Sage, Grey, White, Pink
Shop More Walking-Sandal Picks
What should I be looking for in walking sandals?
We like to think of good walking sandals as the friend who's always down for an impromptu city stroll but won't make you regret your outfit choice. You want cushioning (because the concrete is not your friend), solid arch support, and adjustable straps so you're not dealing with blisters halfway through the day. If they make your feet feel like they're getting a gentle hug and still look cute with a dress, you've found the one. You should never have to sacrifice you personal style preferences for comfort.
What materials are best for walking sandals?
If you know you're going to be on your feet all day, we advise against wearing a new pair of shoes. Go for the style you've already broken in, and the first time you wear your walking sandals, let it be for a quick coffee run. Or just buy a preloved pair.
Leather is our go-to because it looks chic and breaks in beautifully. We've found lambskin and 100% leather styles to be a bit softer than certain faux-leather options. Yes, they're vegan, but do they really work? If we're going to be doing serious walking, we might go for controversial jelly sandals or neoprene. All in all, the goal is something breathable, low-maintenance, and soft enough that you don't end the day in Band-Aids.
How We Picked the Best Walking Sandals
As NYC-based Who What Wear editors, we spend a lot of time trekking around the city, and shoes that allow us to do that are of the utmost importance. For this particular list, we looked into our own wardrobes and recommended the sandals we always choose when we know we'll be logging several miles on the city streets. Our personal experience with these sandals—and the fact that they didn't give us blisters—gives us the confidence to back up our recommendations.
Why Trust Who What Wear
Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
