Even if you're not planning a hiking holiday, it can't have escaped your notice that 'ugly' sandals, the kind with non-slip soles and velcro straps, are trending right now. And the even better news is that walking sandals couldn't be a more appropriate choice of footwear if you want to give a frou-frou dress a bit of bite or, of course, if you want to up your step count this summer.
Just to be clear, there are walking sandals and then there are sandals that are comfortable to walk in. The former are made with techy credentials by outdoor brands like Hoka, Merrell and Ecco. Sandals that you can schlep around in - like the logoed pair worn above by Lori Harvey, which, FYI, are Chanel - can be found at brands like The North Face, PUMA and Timberland.
Walking sandals really are your best option if you're packing for a city break and only have a cabin bag. Airy and cushioned, they'll keep your soles in tip-top condition as you're trekking from museum to park to wine bar. Keep scrolling to see the coolest and most comfortable options.
SHOP: The Best Walking Sandals
www.hoka.com
Hoka's Hopara easily navigates through any terrain, whether it's wet or dry, meaning that it blows other mountain sandals out of the water. Bella Hadid is also a fan.
www.merrell.com
Merrell has a wealth of different walking sandals. This Hydro Moc, which is easy to slide on and off, is made with advanced construction techniques so that it's more durable than others of its kind for days spent in and around water.
www.teva-eu.com
Teva's Zymic has a chunky outsole and cushioned straps, making it ideal for all-day wear, light hikes and getting around town.
www.thenorthface.co.uk
These lightweight sandals, in this sharp black-and-white colourway, are ideal for city exploring.
www.crocs.co.uk
Crocs' All-Terrain sandals have a more rugged outsole, two upper straps and an adjustable turbo strap so that the ground beneath your feet has never felt more surmountable.
gb.ecco.com
This supportive hiking sandal is made for superior comfort on and off the trail. The sole is particularly special as it provides long-lasting cushioning and flexibility thanks to ECCO FLUIDFORM™ Direct Comfort Technology.
www.adidas.co.uk
Adidas' adventure-ready sandals are all-terrain so you're set for sunny hikes and lunch stops by the lake. It's also made with a series of recycled materials, with the upper featuring at least 50% recycled content.
www.fitflop.com
Suitable for light country trails as well as city streets, FitFlop's sandals boast a chunky-sole silhouette, clean lines, and multi-adjustable touch straps.
www.camper.com
Simple and sleek, Camper's Pelotas Flota is the perfect plus one if you're planning a summer holiday that is going to take in a lot of sightseeing.
uk.puma.com
With their rugged rubber outsole and two-way adjustable traps, PUMA's sandals are comfortable and cool in equal measure.
www.timberland.co.uk
Now on sale for £45, Timberland's Lincoln Peak Sandal has secure straps that can hold up over varying terrain and a rubber lug outsole for added traction.