These 24 Summer Sandals Will Save Your Feet While It’s Really Hot (And Even When It’s Not)

The Birkenstock Arizona is a classic summer sandal, particularly because of its reputation as the comfiest summer sandal. These sandals are so iconic, and for good reason, namely because of its anatomically shaped cork-latex footbed that's super comfortable, but also its skin-friendly and hard-wearing design.

Gemma says: 'I've had my Birkenstock Arizona's for so long I can't even remember what sandal I used to wear in the summer before that and honestly, now I wouldn't want to wear much else. Birkenstock Arizona's really are the best of the best, the shoe comes in various different colours (I went for the lime green) and are also ridiculously comfort - plus, they always come up true to size on my narrow feet.'

A pair of Birkenstock sandals you might not be so well acquainted with is the Mayari sandal. A design that still has the elements of a classic Birkenstock design but feels more modern and suited to a narrower foot, the Mayari has a toe crossover and thinner straps. Available in a colour selection that rivals the popular Arizona style, a couple of standouts include the black, 'Bordeaux' red and brown.

Marina says: 'As much as I've always loved the Birkenstock vibe, I'd always struggled with chunky sandals due to my tiny size 3 feet. Any time I slipped into a pair of Arizonas it looked like I was playing dress up in my dad's closet, which resulted in me steering clear for the longest time - but then something changed. Enter: The Birkenstock Mayaris. As soon as made eye contact with the Mayaris, I knew we'd be friends. The slightly chicer toe-loop strap lends itself well to those with smaller feet, as well as those who don't want to lean into the fully 'hippy' vibe of the Arizonas. I've had my Mayaris for four years - and counting - and wore them for one month every single day on my trip to Mexico. Their current condition? Still perfect.'

If you're liking the look of the Birkenstock Arizona sandal, but are worried about the cork bottom as it's not overly waterproof, the brand have also released a version made from a highly flexible and lightweight EVA that's completely waterproof. Handy for dips in the sea and walks on the beach, the Arizona EVA is a good choice for those who value having summer sandals they can wear in various different settings.

Gemma says: 'Before I bought my Birkenstock Arizona's I bought the Arizona Eva's, purely persuaded by its waterproofness as I'm someone who likes to walk their sandals all the way up until the edge of the pool. The Arizona Eva's work perfectly for me, the sandals are super comfortable, soft and are a lot easier to clean than the classic iteration.'

The Row's Ginza sandals have a celeb fan club that includes Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jennifer Lawrence and Kendall Jenner - and it's probably because the design is gloriously uncomplicated yet super comfortable. Made in Italy from smooth leather and suede, the Ginza Flip-Flops have a cushioned insole for all-day wear.

The high street also has heeled flip-flops aplenty, and if you're looking for a super affordable option, H&M have just the pair for you. Available in black, dark brown and light beige, these sandals are ready to elevate your summer wardrobe without looking overly dressy.

Mint Velvet also has a pair of mid-range flip flop heels, with a heel that's not too high so you can wear it to the office, and then to after-work drinks with little fuss. There's three colours to choose from, including a summery cream shade, which would look perfect with maxi dresses and lace skirts.

Russell & Bromley's fisherman sandals are not only highly practical, because of its caged detailing and leather-lined footbed, but are also on-trend too. The brand's Siracuse style is available in two different colours, both of which are just as great - although my favourite? This gorgeous tan brown. Style with wide-leg trousers, or socks and shorts.

The jelly shoe is making a resurgence and not to everyone's approval. Yes, it's a little bit of a love-it-or-hate-it kind of shoe but courtesy of The Row SS24, the jelly shoe is back. Our favourite? This style from Ancient Greek Sandals, made out of a rubber upper and available in several different colourways that include a black and fun clear red.

A good pair of high street fisherman sandals comes from Anthropologie, which have an on-trend design, but also one that's likely to stand the test of time. Available in four different colours; including black, cream and lime, the Fisherman Sport Sandals are made with an EVA sole and a leather upper that's super comfortable.

These are selling out quick and for good reason - coming in at £29.99 the Zara toe ring sandals come fashion influencer-approved. Made from a sleek leather-look material, the Zara sandals have a subtle gold toe strap that adds just the right amount of elevation - whether you're heading to a garden party, wedding, or to the office.

Gemma says: 'I managed to get my hands on these Zara toe ring sandals at the end of summer last year and I really didn't get enough wear out of them - so I'm so glad the sandals are back this year. I must admit, Zara's sandals are a little thin at the sole to walk long distances in - but saying that, the sole is comfortable for shorter distances and the toe ring really does add something different.'

Dune also has a gorgeous toe ring design if you fancy embellishing your summer outfits. Available in two different colours - black and a neutral brown - the sandals have been designed with a supportive footbed to protect your feet as you walk, as well as a flexible rubber sole. Style the black colour with a pair of satin trousers and a white t-shirt, and the neutral sandals with a floaty floral midi dress and a raffia tote.

If you're on the hunt for a pair of toe ring sandals that have a little more support, River Island has a style that comes with an ankle buckle fastening and straps to keep your feet in place. Available in two different colours, a brown and statement silver, the former is perfect for styling with jeans or jorts and a simple white t-shirt, while the latter can be paired with any A-line dress and a clutch bag.

The high street is the place to look when it comes to finding a great pair of mules that will elevate any outfit. This pair from & Other Stories are particularly good because of its retro tan leather look, minimalist lines, rounded toes and stacked block heel. Made from a smooth nappa leather, the heel is the perfect length for taking a look from desk to dinner.

This Mango pair of mules keeps on selling out (last summer the shoes spent more time out of stock than it did in) - and finally it seems as if the brand has listened to all of our sartorial wishes and restocked its best-selling mules. The Pointed Heel Sandals come in three different neutral colours, all of which are equally as tempting, but the winner has to go to this medium brown shade or the white.

For a more traditional style mule, Russell & Bromley have a pair that can be worn with mini dresses as well as a pair of wide-leg trousers and linen shirt. The design comes in three colours for a different look each time, a wear-with-everything black, subtle pink nude shade and a red - great for adding a pop of colour to any outfit.

The ultimate summer sandal comes in the form of a raffia look (of course to match your tote bag). This pair from Prada are particularly warm weather appropriate and look so summery thanks to its raffia crochet design. The sandals aren't just aesthetic easier, as the rubber sole and hook and loop straps keep your foot in place and also make sure its comfortable as you walk.

Gemma says: 'My raffia Prada sandals get so much wear in the summer, I think the main reason for that is the beige colourway. Beige is perhaps the most worn colour in my wardrobe and goes with most neutrals I already own, so my theory is to just throw the sandals on with any outfit and hope for the best. Plus, the rubber sole makes them practical for wearing out to dinner and also to the beach.'

If you're looking for a pair of raffia sandals from the high street, Mint Velvet have a pair complete with contrasting brown or black trims and neutral beige raffia. To keep your foot in place the sandals have two cross straps, finished with large buckle details to match the rest of your jewellery. Wear with a satin midi skirt or denim shorts.

The dad sandal isn't for everyone, and if you're wanting a raffia sandal that isn't so chunky, Anthropologie have a good alternative. With a thinner sole, throw the sandals on with a maxi dress and clutch bag and you're good to go.

Dear Frances' ballet flats have become quite the icon, so much so that its cult Balla design inspired hundreds of designs we see on the high street everyday. The woven Balla style is perfectly practical, thanks to its somewhat closed toe, but also is breathable in the same way a flip flop is. The only downside is getting your hands on a pair.

Hannah says: 'I know these are technically more shoe than sandal but, thanks to the open weave, they're way more breathable than your typical ballet pumps. They offer more coverage, though, which is particularly great considering I live in London, where bare toes aren't always practical (or desirable, especially not on the tube). I lived in them last summer and have already been wearing them a lot in the past few weeks, thanks to the glorious spring we've been enjoying. They look good with everything and are so comfortable, too.'

If you're looking for a similar open weave sandal, but prefer to look on the high street then Next have a good alternative. Complete with a pointed toe that elevates any outfit, these sandals also feature a buckle strap at the heel to keep your foot in position, as well as a comfortable sole. Style the 'bone' white pair with a floral maxi dress and the black with wide-leg trousers and waistcoat top.

Mango also has a pair of open weave ballerina flats - and if you're into minimalist dressing you're going to love these. With a rounded toe and an open weave that will still show off your pedicure, without leaving you exposed to the city pavements, these shoes are a nice alternative to a classic flip flop.

Stilettos might look nice, but the style does hurt your feet after a while. So, for a more practical choice why not go for a pair of platform sandals that look just as chic but won't hurt your feet half as much? This design from Dune is a particular standout, thanks to its brown colouring, wood-look platform soles and gold buckle straps.

If you're looking for a platform sandal that's less dressy and more everyday, Free People's Harbor Flatform Sandals should be on your watchlist. Available in numerous colours (a favourite however is the 'cherry cola' red shade), the sandals feature a cushioned insole, wide leather strap and a textured flatform sole. Pair with a mini dress or skirt and your favourite tote bag.

Loeffler Randall has designed the ultimate platform sandal for any summer holiday or beach wedding you might have planned this year. With a knotted front that lends itself to that natural beachy look and a sturdy platform heel that won't have you falling over when walking on grass, these sandals balance the fine line between practical and elegant.