Finding sandals that don’t force you to choose between orthopaedic aesthetics and blistering foot pain used to feel impossible. Thankfully, footwear brands have finally caught up, blending ergonomic support, plush footbeds and sturdy materials into silhouettes you actually want to wear.
Still, finding sandals that genuinely deliver on the comfort they promise takes work. To help you skip the trial-and-error, we’ve rounded up the standout pairs across every style category – from leather sandals polished enough to wear to the office, to water-ready rubber ideal for the beach and heeled designs for nights out.
The best comfortable sandals, according to The Weekly team:
- Leather sandals: Bared Mango Leather Chunky Sandals, $279
- Slip-on sandals: Calvin Klein Square Flat Quilted Sandal, $119
- Strappy sandals: Libby Leather Braided Flat Sandals, $201
- Heeled sandals: Django and Juliette Tinkett Black Suede Jewels Sandals, $199.95
- Rubber sandals: Senso Megan Sandals, $120
- Animal print sandals: Anonymous Copenhagen Mareike 10, $265
Ahead are the comfiest sandals available right now in all the most popular styles.
Read: The most comfortable heels in Australia, rated by The Weekly team
Leather sandals
Leather sandals are a hardworking staple in every stylish woman’s warm-weather wardrobe. Premium leather naturally moulds to your foot over time for a custom fit, while offering breathable, long-lasting durability that minimises rubbing. They deliver a polished, wear-with-everything aesthetic and only grow softer and more comfy with age.
Slip-on sandals
Sandals you can slip into – without having to bend over to buckle a strap – are a true godsend for anyone constantly running in and out of the house. The best options feature wide supportive straps, padded insoles and contoured footbeds that hold your foot securely in place, preventing the dreaded heel-clack and sliding that usually comes with backless designs. Look for shock-absorbing soles if you plan to wear them for extended walking.
Strappy sandals
Strappy sandals are proof that delicate, minimalist designs can still offer serious structural support. Instead of letting your feet slide around, these pairs use strategic strap placement to lock your foot into position and prevent painful friction. Thoughtful details, like adjustable ankle closures, hidden elastic inserts and padded footbeds, give you a customised fit without sacrificing a sleek aesthetic.
Heeled sandals
Heeled sandals offer height without the sharp forefoot strain that usually comes with lifting shoes. Wide block bases and padded footbeds distribute your weight evenly, while sturdy heel structures keep your steps stable and secure. The right pair provides enough arch support and cushioning that you won’t spend the night counting down until you can take them off.
Rubber sandals
Rubber sandals are lightweight and feature quick-drying, water-resistant materials, making them essential for warm-weather travel. The rubber offers soft, flexible cushioning underfoot that easily handles wet sand, boat decks or weekend errands. Easy to wipe clean on the go, they’re as low-maintenance as warm-weather footwear gets.
Animal print sandals
Animal print sandals are an easy way to inject personality into otherwise simple outfits. Patterns like leopard, snake and zebra act as neutral accents, adding texture and interest to everyday wardrobe basics. Name a sandal style – strappy, thongs, rubber, leather or heeled – and there’s likely an animal print version of it.























