12 Best Stylish Summer Sandals for Women Over 50 With Arch Support, Cushioning + More
Long gone are the days of blistered heels, throbbing toes and overall just sore, painful feet after wearing a pair of sandals. We know you may be scarred from the sandals of the past that had no arch support, felt like nails were put into the heel and offered no support or security. But nowadays, there are hundreds of options on the market that were actually designed with your feet in mind. They are comfortable, supportive, and last but not least, cute! You don't have to sacrifice style for comfort — with the summer sandals we rounded up below specifically for women over 50 in mind — you'll get both for all day wear!
What happens to our feet as we age?
As we age, our feet tend to lose their cushioning and padding, which can lead to a large array of foot problems like plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, arthritis, calluses and more, says Suzanne Levine, DPM, RPT, PC, aesthetic podiatrist and board-certified podiatric foot surgeon at Millenium Podiatry in New York City. Other issues include bunions, ulcers and corns. All of these can be very painful and frustrating, and it can feel defeating trying to find relief.
Related: Podiatrists Reveal Their Favorite Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis and Other Foot Bothers
"As we age, we lose elasticity and flexibility (in our feet). Our soft tissues weaken which can lead to limited range of motion and increased susceptibility to pressures," says Dr. Levine. "Hormonal changes in women play a major role in the aging problem which affects bone loss and the integrity and structure of the foot."
Thankfully, choosing the right pair of shoes can be a game changer for your feet and finally finding relief. And, ensuring you're wearing proper and supportive shoes can help prevent foot pain.
Related: How to Remove Calluses at Home With Ease and Tricks That Keep Feet Smooth All Summer Long
What to look for in summer sandals for women over 50
When picking out the perfect pair of sandals this summer, you'll want to keep some key things in mind: flexibility, cushioning and breathability, just to name a few, notes Dr. Levine.
And especially if you're looking for flat sandals (as many of us have long said goodbye to heels), you'll also want to mindful of the above features. "When choosing a flat shoe, women should look for a good toe box to avoid bunions, making shoe wear easier and less tiring, and adequate cushioning to absorb the shock of the foot against the ground, thereby, avoiding fatigue," explains Dr. Levine. "The material should be breathable and lightweight. In addition, the shoe should be flexible, making walking easier."
Related: The Best Orthotic Sandals That Are as Pretty as They Are Supportive
The 12 best summer sandals for women over 50
Aerosoles Conclusion Back Strap Thong Sandal
Not only do we love the pretty pastel shade of these Aerosoles sandals, but even better, we love that it has a flexible outsole and adjustable ankle strap to keep feet in place all day. Plus, it comes in both medium and wide widths and goes up to a size 12.
If you're looking for the perfect beach or pool sandals, Ecco has got you covered. Made from rubber, these slides are waterproof so you don't have to worry about ruining your favorite pair of sandals. And they feature adjustable straps, arch support and special technology that follows the shape of your foot for all day-comfort.
These sandals feature arch support, heel cupping, an elastic backstrap and and a cushioned, bouncy footbed. And in a neutral shade, they pair easily with any outfit — but they also come in 13 other shades if you're looking for some more bright and cheery.
Aerosoles Crew Macrame Sculpted Heel Sandal
A good pair of heeled sandals is great to have in your closet for any weddings, graduations or other formal events you may have this summer. But don't worry, heels don't have to equal pain. This pair's flexible outsole, pillow-like cushioning and adjustable ankle strap make them extra comfortable. And if you prefer a neutral shade, they come in three other colors, including black.
Cole Haan Cloudfeel Espadrille Wedge Sandals
We also love a good wedge sandal! They offer a bit of height while feeling more stable with the thick wedge heel than some other thinner styles of heels. Cole Haan is actually one of the shoe brands Dr. Levine recommended, as they have "good quality and style." And this pair's fun, summery print brightens up any outfit, while cushioned insoles really do feel cloud-like.
Dr. Scholl's Nice Iconic Sandal
Dr. Scholl's is synonymous for being comfortable and are a fan-favorite of many podiatrists for good reason. This classic style has algae-infused foam for extra comfort, and anti-microbial, anti-odor insole technology — so there's no worries of your feet smelling throughout the day.
Italian Shoemakers Leather Dynamo Dual Band Sandals
Looking for a comfortable pair of summer sandals that won't break the bank? These slip-ons are just $25, and the classic white with a gold buckle makes it easy to pair them with just about anything. They feature a comfort footbed and grip sole, and did we mention they cost just $25?
Cole Haan Amber Strappy Sandals
These are the perfect strappy black sandals with a small heel for all your dressier summertime events. The thicker heel makes them wearable outdoors and in the grass without sinking, and the open toe and thin straps makes them breathable.
Yep, puffers aren't just for coats anymore — sandals are embracing the trend too now! These chic slip-on sandals are designed for walking and feature a quilted-style design and come in a variety of colorways. Plus, they have different variations depending on what you want them for — casual walks, quick walks or long walks.
Naturalizer is another one of Dr. Levine's brand recommendations, as they "have great cushioning and (are) comfortable." This pair has adjustable ankle straps, comfortable cushioning and is right on trend for this summer with its metallic hue.
These summer sandals are another pair made for walking — choose from casual, quick or long walk styles — and as the name suggests, they have extra arch support.
For more on on our favorite summer styles, click through these stories:
The Best Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis That’ll Fit Any Kind of Style
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