How to Pick the Best Sandals for Arch Support

Dr. Correa
May 16
2 min read

As the temperature rises, sandals become the go-to footwear for many. But before you slip into your favorite pair, ask yourself this: Are my sandals actually supporting my feet? At Select Foot and Ankle Specialist, we treat a lot of summer foot pain that could have been avoided with the right sandals. Here's what you need to know about choosing the best sandals for arch support—and your overall foot health.

🦶 Why Arch Support Matters

Your arches are the natural shock absorbers of your feet. When they're not properly supported, it can lead to:

Plantar fasciitis
Heel pain
Arch strain
Knee, hip, or back pain
Overpronation (where the feet roll inward excessively)

Flimsy flip-flops and flat sandals might be stylish—but they often provide zero support, and your feet pay the price.

👡 Top Features of Best Sandals

1. Contoured Foot bed Look for sandals with a molded foot bed that matches the natural shape of your foot. Good arch support should be built-in, not flat.

2. Deep Heel Cup This helps stabilize your foot and control motion, reducing strain on your arches and ankles.

3. Adjustable Straps A proper fit is key. Straps that adjust around the ankle and over the foot help prevent sliding and offer a secure, custom fit.

4. Materials Matter Cushioned shock-absorbing mid soles reduce impact on hard surfaces and ease pressure on your joints. Thicker cushioned soles also do better at forming to the sole of your foot which helps distribute weight across the entire sole instead of just the pressure points. Also consider cork sandals which can mold to your foot over times and provide increased comfort and support.

5. Rigid, Not Floppy, Base Bend the sandal. If it folds in half easily, it’s probably not going to support you. A little flexibility is okay, but it should feel sturdy and structured.

🛍️ Brands We Recommend

You don’t have to sacrifice style for support. Many brands now offer sandals with orthopedic design in mind. Some of our top picks include:

Vionic
Birkenstock
GPOS
Naot
HOKA
Aetrex
Chaco
OOFOS (especially great for recovery after workouts or long days)

⚠️ Signs Your Sandals Aren’t Cutting It

You feel foot or heel pain after walking
You’re gripping with your toes to keep the sandals on
You notice your posture is off or you're feeling back pain
You see visible wear in the sole where your arch should be supported

👣 Need Help Picking the Right Pair?

Your feet are unique—and so are your arch needs. While sandals are not the best footwear for every occasion there are some that are light years better than others. At Select Foot and Ankle Specialist, we can assess your foot structure, identify any issues like flat feet or high arches, and recommend the best sandal for you.

📞 Call us today at (832) 743 0508 to schedule or schedule online for a custom footwear consultation. Your feet will thank you all summer long.