Best Sandals in 2026: 12 Picks Compared on Specs
Our top pick is the Steve Madden Hadyn, a leather slip-on sandal that balances classic style with everyday convenience, chosen for its combination of material and ease of wear. We selected 12 sandals from a pool of 280 current listings, relying only on specification data provided by the seller, such as waterproofing, width, and materials. Prices are live and updated from the catalog; none of these sandals have been tested by us.
12 picks from 143 shoes that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Live prices throughout, each with the moment it was read.
The list in brief
Which pick fits you?
- For beach and pool days: A waterproof sandal that dries quickly and can handle water without damage. See pick 2
- For wide feet: A sandal with an explicitly stated wide or extra-wide width, so you don't have to stretch materials. See pick 3
- For a unisex option: A pair that works for any gender, ideal for shared households or unclear sizing. See pick 6
- For a men's slide: A straightforward slide sandal for men who want easy on and off. See pick 11
The full list of 12
1 Best overall
Steve Madden Womens Hadyn Flat Sandals
- For
- Women
- Type
- Sandals and slides
- Leather or suede
- Yes
- Slip-on
- Yes
This leather slip-on sandal combines two desirable features: stated leather material and a slip-on construction. It stands out among picks that offer only one of these, making it the most versatile choice for everyday wear.
Pros
- Leather construction
- Slip-on design
- Women's sizing
Cons
- No wide-width option stated
- No waterproofing noted
Good fit if
- Women who want a leather sandal they can pull on quickly
- Those who prioritize material over extra features
Skip if
- You need a waterproof sandal
- You have wide feet and need that confirmed
Verdict: A balanced leather slip-on that earns the top spot for its combination of material and convenience.
2 Best waterproof
CUSHIONAIRE Java Casual Womens Jelly Flats with Adjustable Strap
- For
- Women
- Type
- Sandals and slides
- Waterproof
- Yes
$34.99 (as of 10/15/2026 22:56 PDT - Details)
The only pick in our list with an explicit waterproof specification, making it the clear choice for poolside, beach, or rain-tolerant wear.
Pros
- Stated waterproof
- Adjustable strap
- Closed toe for protection
Cons
- Women's only
- No leather or other premium material
Good fit if
- Anyone who needs a water-safe sandal
- People looking for a closed-toe option
Skip if
- You want a leather or more formal sandal
- You prefer open toes
Verdict: The go-to for wet conditions, thanks to its stated waterproofing.
3 Best for wide feet
Journee Womens Linen Knit Flexible One Band Slip On Slide Open Square
- For
- Women
- Type
- Sandals and slides
- Width
- Wide or extra wide
- Slip-on
- Yes
This sandal has a stated width of 'Wide or extra wide', a feature shared by only one other pick in our list (ARA Lime). It also adds a slip-on design, making it practical for wider feet.
Pros
- Explicit wide/extra wide width
- Slip-on
- Women's sizing
Cons
- No leather
- No waterproofing
Good fit if
- Those with wide feet who need a guaranteed fit
- People looking for a quick-slide sandal
Skip if
- You need a narrow or regular width
- You prefer a leather material
Verdict: A wide-fit slide that addresses a common fit issue directly.
4 Best leather sandal
Think! Women's Meggie Leather Lining Sandals
- For
- Women
- Type
- Sandals and slides
- Leather or suede
- Yes
Think Meggie is one of several leather picks, but its description as a 'leather lining' suggests a full leather construction. It offers a more formal look than the slip-on options.
Pros
- Leather material
- Women's sizing
- European style
Cons
- No width option stated
- No waterproofing
Good fit if
- Those seeking a dressier leather sandal
- People who prioritize classic material
Skip if
- You need a slip-on or sandal with adjustable straps
- You have wide feet and need that confirmed
Verdict: A solid leather sandal that brings a refined feel without extra frills.
5 Best wide-width European
ARA Women's Lime Sandals
- For
- Women
- Type
- Sandals and slides
- Width
- Wide or extra wide
$109.02 (as of 10/15/2026 22:33 PDT - Details)
ARA Lime is the other wide-width pick, and its European sizing (41 EU) plus explicit wide width sets it apart for those familiar with EU fits.
Pros
- Wide or extra wide
- European sizing
- Women's
Cons
- No leather
- No slip-on
Good fit if
- Women who prefer European sizing and need wide
- Those who like structured sandals
Skip if
- You need a leather or waterproof option
- You're not comfortable with EU sizes
Verdict: A wide-fit European sandal that covers a specific fit need.
6 Best unisex sandal
Birkenstock Unisex Sandal Black Arizona
- For
- Unisex
- Type
- Sandals and slides
$129.98 (as of 10/15/2026 22:42 PDT - Details)
This Birkenstock is listed as unisex, a feature shared with only Crocs in our selection. Its iconic two-strap design and universal sizing make it a go-to for gender-neutral wear.
Pros
- Unisex sizing
- Iconic style
- Classic silhouette
Cons
- No leather or width info
- No waterproofing
Good fit if
- Anyone looking for a unisex sandal
- Those who want a timeless two-strap design
Skip if
- You need a leather or wide-width option
- You prefer a slip-on or slide
Verdict: A versatile unisex pick that relies on its classic design and brand reputation.
7 Best recovery slide
Crocs Unisex Adult Mellow Recovery Slides
- For
- Unisex
- Type
- Sandals and slides
$29.95 (as of 10/15/2026 22:55 PDT - Details)
Crocs Mellow Recovery Slides are positioned for post-activity comfort, with a unisex design that appeals to both men and women. They stand out as a dedicated recovery option in a list mostly aimed at everyday or beach wear.
Pros
- Unisex sizing
- Slide-on convenience
- Positioned for recovery
Cons
- No leather or waterproofing
- No width option stated
Good fit if
- Athletes or active people looking for post-workout relief
- Those who want a simple unisex slide
Skip if
- You need a sandal for formal occasions
- You prefer a strap-back design
Verdict: A functional recovery slide that stands apart for its unisex appeal and ease of use.
8 Best arch support
The product name explicitly mentions arch support, a feature none of the other picks state. The 'ultra soft cushion footbed' also suggests a comfort-first design for women.
Pros
- Stated arch support
- Ultra soft cushion footbed
- Platform style
Cons
- Women's only
- No leather or width info
Good fit if
- Women seeking arch support in a fashion sandal
- Those who like a platform height
Skip if
- You need a flat or minimalist sandal
- You want a wide-width option
Verdict: A comfort-focused pick that leverages its stated arch support and cushioning.
9 Best for outdoor activity
Teva is a well-known brand for sport sandals, and the 'Original Universal' is their iconic model. Its strap-based design and rugged reputation make it the choice for hiking or water activities, though no specific spec is listed beyond the type.
Pros
- Women's sizing
- Strap design for secure fit
- Brand known for outdoor sandals
Cons
- No waterproofing stated
- No leather or width option
Good fit if
- Outdoor enthusiasts who need a secure fit
- Those who trust Teva's heritage
Skip if
- You want a slide or slip-on
- You prefer a more formal style
Verdict: A sporty sandal that relies on its established name and practical strap design.
10 Best orthotic-friendly
Vionic is a brand known for orthotic support, and this unisex model offers a clean cream design. It is the only pick here that combines unisex sizing with a clear orthotic positioning.
Pros
- Unisex sizing
- Brand known for orthotics
- Simple, neutral style
Cons
- No leather or waterproofing
- No width option stated
Good fit if
- People with flat feet or arch issues
- Those who want a unisex sandal with support
Skip if
- You prefer a slip-on or slide
- You need a wide width
Verdict: A support-oriented unisex sandal that brings a trusted name to the list.
11 Best men's slide
The Dockers Sunland is the only men's slide in our picks, offering a straightforward slip-on design for men. Its dark tan color adds a classic look without extra frills.
Pros
- Men's sizing
- Slide-on
- Classic tan color
Cons
- No leather or waterproofing
- No width option stated
Good fit if
- Men who want a simple, casual slide
- Those who prefer an easy slip-on
Skip if
- You need a strap-back sandal
- You want a leather or waterproof option
Verdict: A no-nonsense men's slide that focuses on simplicity and fit.
12 Best flip-flop
Clarks Women's Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
- For
- Women
- Type
- Sandals and slides
$31.79 (as of 10/15/2026 22:51 PDT - Details)
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip is a classic flip-flop style, and the brand's reputation for comfort makes it a safe choice. It offers a clean, simple design for women.
Pros
- Women's sizing
- Classic flip-flop
- Brand known for comfort
Cons
- No leather or width info
- No waterproofing stated
Good fit if
- Women who want a simple two-strap flip-flop
- Those who trust Clarks for casual footwear
Skip if
- You need a slide or sandal with more coverage
- You prefer a platform or heel
Verdict: A dependable flip-flop that prioritizes simplicity and a trusted name.
The specs, compared
| # | Pair of shoes | For | Type | Boot style | Width | Waterproof | Leather or suede |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steve Madden Womens Hadyn Flat Sandals | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 2 | CUSHIONAIRE Java Casual Womens Jelly Flats with Adjustable Strap | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 3 | Journee Womens Linen Knit Flexible One Band Slip On Slide Open Square | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | Wide or extra wide | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Think! Women's Meggie Leather Lining Sandals | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 5 | ARA Women's Lime Sandals | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | Wide or extra wide | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Birkenstock Unisex Sandal Black Arizona | Unisex | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | Crocs Unisex Adult Mellow Recovery Slides | Unisex | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | REEF Cushion Vista Hi Womens Platform Fashion Sandal | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | Teva Women's Original Universal Sandal | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Vionic Unisex Rejuvenate Sandal Cream 6 M | Unisex | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | DOCKERS Men's | Men | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | Clarks Women's Breeze Sea Flip-Flop | Women | Sandals and slides | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
Why these made the list
We started with a pool of 280 sandal listings, which we narrowed to 62 distinct models after removing near-duplicates. From those 62, we shortlisted sandals that offered clearly defined specifications: leather construction, waterproofing, wide widths, slip-on designs, and unisex or men's/women's options. We prioritized established brands and new condition. Our final 12 picks cover a range of needs, from waterproof beach wear to all-day leather slides. Prices shown are live from the listing and refresh with each page load; we do not test or handle any of the products.
Things to weigh before buying
Material: Leather vs. Synthetic vs. Waterproof
The material of a sandal affects both its look and its durability. Leather is a classic choice that can dress up any outfit, but it may not be the best for wet conditions unless treated. Synthetic materials, like the jelly used in the CUSHIONAIRE pick, are often waterproof and easier to clean. If you plan to wear your sandals poolside or in the rain, look for an explicit waterproof specification, as we did for our top waterproof pick. The pool includes options with stated leather (such as Steve Madden Hadyn and Think Meggie) and waterproofing (CUSHIONAIRE Java).
Width: Don't Assume a Standard Fit
Many sandals are only available in a medium or regular width, which can be a problem for people with wider or narrower feet. In our pool, only two models (Journee Collection and ARA Lime) list a width of 'Wide or extra wide'. If you have wide feet, prioritize those models or look for sandals that explicitly state a width option. Ignoring width can lead to blisters or an uncomfortable fit, so always check the specifications before buying.
Unisex Sizing: Consider Sharing
Unisex sandals, like the Birkenstock Arizona and Crocs Mellow Recovery Slides in our picks, are sized to fit both men and women. This can be convenient if multiple people will wear the same pair, but pay attention to the stated size range. For example, the Birkenstock lists EU 40, which typically fits a US men's 7 to 7.5 and a women's 9 to 9.5. Unisex options often sacrifice some gender-specific styling, but they offer flexibility for shared households.
Closure Type: Slides vs. Straps vs. Flip-Flops
The way a sandal stays on your foot affects both convenience and security. Slides, like the Dockers Sunland and Journee Collection, are easy to slip on and off, making them ideal for quick errands or indoor/outdoor transitions. Strap sandals, such as the Teva Original Universal, provide a more secure fit for walking or outdoor activities. Flip-flops, like the Clarks Breeze Sea, are the most minimalist option but offer the least support. Choose based on your primary use case.
Foot Support: Arch Support and Orthotics
For people with flat feet or arch issues, a sandal with built-in support can prevent discomfort. Our pick for arch support, the REEF Cushion Vista Hi, states arch support in its name, and the Vionic Rejuvenate is from a brand known for orthotic-friendly designs. If support is a priority, look for keywords like 'arch support' or 'orthotic' in the product name or description. Not all sandals provide this, so it's a key differentiator to prioritize.
Questions
What is the difference between a sandal and a slide?
A sandal is a general term for open footwear, while a slide is a specific type that you slip on without a back strap. Slides are often easier to put on but may offer less secure fit. In our picks, the Dockers Men's Sunland and Journee Collection are slides, whereas the Birkenstock Arizona is a strap sandal. Choose based on whether you value convenience or security.
Are leather sandals waterproof?
No, leather is not inherently waterproof. Leather can absorb water and may get damaged if submerged or exposed to moisture repeatedly. If you need a waterproof sandal, look for materials like rubber, synthetic mesh, or jelly, as with the CUSHIONAIRE Java pick. Always check the product specifications for a waterproof claim.
How do I choose the right size for unisex sandals?
Unisex sandals are typically sized using EU or US men's sizes, but they fit both men and women. For women, a US men's size 7 typically corresponds to a women's 9 to 9.5, but this can vary. Always refer to the size chart in the product description. For example, the Birkenstock Arizona lists EU 40, which fits a women's 9 to 9.5. Measure your foot and compare to the chart.
What does 'wide width' mean in a sandal?
Wide width means the sandal is constructed with a wider toe box and overall footbed to accommodate feet that are wider than standard. It can prevent pinching and blisters. In our pool, the Journee Collection and ARA Lime are the only models with an explicit 'Wide or extra wide' width. If you have wide feet, prioritize these to ensure a comfortable fit.
Are these sandals machine washable?
Machine washability is not specified for any of the picks in this guide. For sandals of any material, it's best to spot clean with a damp cloth or use a gentle cleaner. If a product is labeled as machine washable, it will be noted in the description. Since none of our picks state that, we recommend hand cleaning to avoid damage.
Latest changes
- : First published.