Walking Sandals Endorsed by Professional Dog Walkers
The search for comfortable walking shoes is relentless, especially for warm weather. To find the best options, we consulted professional dog walkers who spend hours on their feet. Rachel Millman and Kimberly Reckles, both experienced Rover dog walkers, emphasize that sandals should offer good arch support, proper cushioning, and a width that fits your foot. They often prefer closed-toe sandals for added safety when handling dogs.
Top Picks from the Experts
Here are the sandals and shoe brands these professionals recommend for long walks in high temperatures.
1. Keen Whisper Lattice Closed-Toe Sandals
Reckles praises these for great support and a secure fit. They feature stretchy criss-cross straps and a lightweight foam footbed. Easy to slip on, water-friendly, and simple to clean. Available in four colors, women's sizes 5-12. $120 at Amazon and Keen.
2. Skechers Slip-in Go Walk Arch Fit Sandals
Reckles likes these for easy slip-on and water use. They offer support and comfort with breathable material, expandable straps, and a cushioned footbed. Machine washable, medium width, in three colors, women's sizes 5-12. $76 at Amazon, $85 at Skechers.
3. Chacos Z Cloud Cushioned Strap Sandal
Millman recommends Chacos. The Z/Cloud sandal has extra cushioning with a polyurethane midsole, adjustable straps, and a treaded rubber outsole. Available in men's and women's sizes with many color options. Women's $105 at Chacos, Men's $105 at REI.
4. Teva Closed-Toe Tirra Sandals
Reckles loves these for their closed-toe cap, comfort, support, and easy back strap. Durable with grippy traction and secure heel lock. Up to six colors, women's sizes 5-11. $110 at Nordstrom and REI.
5. Teva Original Universal Sandals
Millman's enthusiasm for Teva highlights this classic style. It offers a secure fit, supportive comfort, and grippy outsole. Extensive sizes and patterns. Women's from $42 at Amazon, $65 at DSW.
6. Teva Hydratrek Sneaker Sandal
A sneaker-sandal hybrid with breathability and function. Features technical tread for water dispersion and traction on slick surfaces. Men's and women's sizes. Women's $110 at REI, Men's $110 at REI.
7. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals
Millman mentions Birkenstocks for comfort. The Arizona style has a contoured footbed with arch support and heel cup. Gender-neutral sizes, multiple leather types and colors. Oiled leather from $118 at DSW, soft footbed $155 at Nordstrom.
8. Bedrock Suede Mountain Clogs
Millman recommends these all-season clogs for city and trail. Features rubber toe cap, three adjustment points, and cushioned footbed. Men's and women's sizes, up to four colors. Women's $160 at REI, Men's $175 at REI.
