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1. A cushy pair of slides because you'll feel like you're walking on a big fluffy cloud, which — IDK about you — is *exactly* my goal for summer 2023 (and beyond, TBH).
2. A pair of big buckle Birkenstocks that are everything you love about these timeless, comfy and breathable leather sandals, only ever-so-slightly more chic. Let those feet breathe in style!
3. A classic Superga sneaker since they will go with literally anything: jeans, dresses, skirts, dress slacks, overalls (you get the point). In other words, the ideal pair of shoes to bring on a trip!
4. A pair of Clarks flip-flops for a pair of easy-on summer sandals that won't break your back. Don't be fooled by their appearance — they're built with a cushiony, supportive orthopedic footbed!
5. A pair of tie-dye Crocs that are, without a doubt, the physical manifestation of your inner hippie and "cool dad" soul. Pretty soon you'll be taking over the grilling duties, too. ✌️
6. A pair of the famous Allbirds runners that are uber-soft and supportive everyday sneakers made from lightweight and breathable eucalyptus fibers, which means they're 100% up to the task of keeping you cool and comfy as you explore the world this summer (and beyond).
7. An espadrille platform if you've been dreaming of a sandal that's actually as comfy as it is cute — enter this supremely cushioned and super stylish godsend!
8. A Keen sandal that I pretty much live in during the summer. Why, you ask? Well, it's just so darn adorable while also being unbelievably comfy. I walked for hundreds of miles in my first pair (everything from city streets to nature trails) before I eventually had to order a new pair...and I still love them just as much the second time around.
9. A Sketchers boat shoe because it's basically an even comfier and more supportive version of the stylish Sperry's brand (and probably less expensive, too).
10. A pair of these trendy two-strap sandals if you want the look and feel of Birks sans the expensive price tag and painful rubbing. Some reviewers even think these ones are softer and comfier than the name brand.
11. A pair of KuaiLu flip-flops you'll be slipping on just about anytime you step outside, whether you're heading to a body of water or not! These have a super cushiony yoga foam sole that provides plenty of arch support. In fact, one reviewer even walked 9 miles around Vegas in them comfortably!! 😱
12. A lightweight Rothy's loafer with a timeless style that'll pretty much always match your wardrobe, even as the fashion trends change. Not only are they knit from recycled plastic bottles (yay sustainability!) but they're also machine-washable, so you can easily have them looking brand new after every summer adventure.
13. A Crocs wedge sandal because you, like the other 7,000+ 5-star reviewers, will quickly become obsessed. These have all the comfort and durability of classic Crocs (even waterproof), only they're way more stylish. Tons of reviewers swear by these for vacations and beyond, even folks who'd basically vowed never to wear Crocs in their life!
14. A pair of sporty memory foam sneakers with such a lightweight, breathable mesh upper you might even forget you're wearing shoes! At the very least, these can help prevent your feet from getting sweaty and stinky as you sightsee under the hot summer sun for hours on end.
Promising review: "I purchased these before a vacation to Disney World and I'm so glad I did! These shoes stand up to 12+ hours of adventure with no sore feet or blisters. I would recommend these to anyone for standing/walking or everyday!" —m.kray
Get them from Amazon for $45.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and 37 colors).
15. An espadrille platform sandal here to add some ~oomph~ to your summertime 'fits (and make quite the statement on your Insta stories hehe). Pair 'em with jeans, dresses, rompers, really anything — it doesn't matter! What *does* matter is the fact that they're cute 'n' comfy. ;)
16. A pair of Adidas Cloudform running sneakers since, according to reviewers, these are some of the comfiest and most supportive walking shoes out there...and if you're anything like me, you walk a ton during the summer months.
17. A platform slide sandal that manages to be equal parts classic and trendy. I don't quite understand it either, but I *do* understand that you'll look like a chic summer baddie strutting around in these.
18. A pair of chic leather slide sandals because they'll turn pretty much any summer outfit into one that radiates pure style. Put another way, it's giving ~trendy European fashionista.~
19. A slim Skechers low-top sneaker that looks so cute, you'd probably assume they couldn't possibly be comfy, but psych! They've got a super cushy memory foam footbed, which basically makes it feel like you're walking on a soft, fluffy pillow. Not to mention, they're super versatile style-wise too.
20. A pair of ballet flats for a lightweight and compact (read: easy to pack and travel with) summer shoe you can pair with dresses, jeans, slacks, and more. They're super cute, but perhaps more importantly, actually comfy!
21. A classic Toms canvas loafer since they check all the boxes: cute, comfy, versatile, light 'n' airy, and eco-conscious!
22. A pair of braided chunky heels to slip on whenever you need a chic little going-out shoe, for instance at evening happy hour, weddings, date night, or brunch with the gals. According to reviewers, these are actually comfy enough to wear all night long, too!
Promising review: "These are absolutely a great purchase. I bought them for one outfit on vacation and ended up wearing them almost every night. They are cute, go with everything from casual to dressed up, and are comfortable enough to wear all night." —Amber Smith
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 6–10 and 28 colors).
23. A Skechers slip-on mule sneaker for anyone who wants the support of a sneaker but none of the hassle of laces. You can easily slip these on/off in seconds, which is especially great if you're getting to that age where it's just not as easy as it used to be to bend over and put your shoes on. Less time getting ready = more time for summer fun!
Promising review: "I have these on now. I use them as slippers in my house. Pack them on vacation. Use them at Disney. Walked for nine hours in them. Very comfortable." —Christine Noble
Get them from Amazon for $75+ (available in sizes 5–11, including wide fits, and 16 colors).
24. An Oboz mid hiking boot if your favorite summer activity is trekking through the woods and climbing mountains. I've tried quite a few hiking boots over the years, but once I slipped these on, it was like Cinderella finding her glass slipper. They fit like a glove and give the *perfect* amount of support and traction without weighing me down.
25. A pair of Skechers woven wedges so you can stroll about all sweet and flirty on any and all summer excursions — be it a picnic in the park, outdoor wedding, or weekend getaway. Hard to say what you'll love more: their adorable aesthetic or the foam-cushioned contoured footbed!
26. A pair of Dr. Martens vegan leather sandals, AKA the summertime equivalent of your fave ~spunky~ lug sole boots. Thanks to these, there's no reason the punk-rock fashion vibes have to end when the weather gets warm!
Many reviewers suggest sizing down in these, though some recommend ordering your usual size in Dr. Martens if you know that.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising reviews: "I've been wanting these for a while now and finally got them and don't regret it at all! As always, Docs take a few wears to break them in but after I did, I wear them all the time! Perfect for summer. Even in the heat, they don't get sticky or sweaty due to the high-quality nature of the shoes. Easy to clean, comfortable and lightweight! I'm a size 8 usually, but I fit a 7 in all Dr. Marten sandals." —Zoe
Get them from Amazon for $77.83+ (available in sizes 5–11). Check out the Dr. Martens store on Amazon for more styles!
27. A pair of handmade leather huaraches that will only get better over time. Seriously! They'll actually stretch and mold to your foot as you wear them, so don't be surprised if you suddenly find that you don't want to take them off, like ever.
When it comes to sizing, it's recommended to order your true size if you're a whole size, but to size down if you're a half-size.
Based in Buena Park, California, Macarena Collection is a small business specializing in huarache shoe styles and hand-embroidered Mexican clothes and accessories.
Promising reviews: "Beautiful authentic huaraches! I had a pair years ago and they are the only shoes I've ever worn out! They are snug — I wear a 7.5 and ordered a 7, and they are loosening up as I type! Will definitely buy from them again. Seller even included a cute little leather flip-flop keychain. So adorable! Highly recommend." —Cheryl
"I love these shoes; this is my second pair from this shop. They come tight but then stretch to accommodate your feet and fit very well after breaking in. And they’re so cute! Love them." —Bridget Handrahan
Get them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $49.59 (originally $61.99; available in sizes 5–10 and one color, although their store page has more color and style options).
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.