2025 Summer Sandal Trends – From Beach to Brunch

Are you interested in finding out about the 2025 summer sandal trends? Do you need insights to discover the season’s most flattering, supportive, and versatile footwear? From early-morning beach strolls to leisurely late-morning brunches, you’ll learn which silhouettes matter, what technical features to look for, our ten top picks of the season, and how to keep your sandals looking fresh.

Top trending sandal picks:

1. Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed – With its classic two-strap design and plush foam lining over a cork-latex base, this sandal adapts to your foot’s unique shape for personalized arch support. The lightweight EVA sole keeps every step cushioned – perfect for long beach walks or casual weekend errands.
2. Naot Kayla – Three soft leather straps – including a hook-and-loop instep and backstrap – keep your foot secure while the anatomically contoured cork-and-latex footbed molds to your arch over time. A suede lining adds breathability, and the EVA sole offers responsive shock absorption on mixed terrain.
3. ECCO gruuv Nubuck Sandal –  This sandal blends sporty aesthetics with everyday ease by using supple, premium ECCO leather for its three adjustable straps.

Keep reading to discover more 2025 trending summer sandals. 

What Are the Defining Styles in 2025 Summer Sandal Trends?

Summer 2025 sees designers blending comfort-driven technology with fashion-forward details. Read on to explore eight directions you’ll spot everywhere.

Sport-Chic Slides

Foam midsoles have graduated from gyms to street style. This year’s slides use dense EVA or memory-foam cores wrapped in soft neoprene, suede-textured fabrics, or vegan leather. 

Many straps are extra-wide, spreading your weight evenly and eliminating pinch points. Look for tonal stitching or subtle debossed logos – small details that make a difference when you slip into relaxed linen trousers or a cotton sundress.

Artisan-Braided Straps

Hand-woven leather or heavy-weight textile strap patterns add visual depth. Straps may crisscross in basket-weave or feature rope-style braids, often finished with pewter-tone threading for a hint of shimmer. These designs work beautifully with earthy neutrals and bring a handcrafted feel that adds style to simple denim shorts and graphic tees.

Slim Espadrille Wedges

Espadrilles aren’t new, but for 2025 the jute-wrapped wedges are slimmer – just one to 1.25 inches high – and sometimes paired with delicate ankle-tie ribbons or matte metallic buckles. The narrow profile lengthens the leg line without making you feel off-balance. Pair them with a midi skirt or cropped trousers to accentuate the slight lift.

Minimalist Thong Sandals

The toe-post silhouette is stripped back to its essentials: narrow leather or suede straps in soft pastels, rich cognac, or deep navy. Tiny gold buckles or logo hardware become the only ornamentation. These under-the-radar sandals look polished with tailored shorts or linen pants.

Balanced Platform Flatforms

Platforms grow more refined: cork-blend or injected EVA forms rise about one to two inches, with lightly textured treads for traction. The single-piece design means no heel drop, offering a level, lifted sole that’s as stable on boardwalk planks as it is on cafe tile floors.

Retro-Inspired Mules

Backless mules return with scalloped edges, quilted straps, or subtle stud details. Many include molded PU footbeds with hidden arch support. You can slip them on like a slide yet still look pulled together for a midday gallery visit.

Technical-Fabric Straps

Straps made from recycled PET yarns or performance mesh appear in color-blocked panels – think coral against ash gray, or teal paired with oatmeal. Quick-dry properties mean these sandals excel when transitioning from beach play to sidewalk cafes, and the adjustable Velcro tabs keep the fit secure.

Eco-Cork Footbeds

Natural cork footbeds contour to your arches over time, providing custom support. Brands are offering cork looks with top layers of soft suede or vegan leather. The result is both sustainable and functional – a cushioned base that pairs seamlessly with watercolor-printed dresses and chambray jumpsuits.

How Can I Pick Sandals that Transition from Sand to Street?

A truly versatile beach-to-brunch sandal balances materials and proportions:

• Water-Resistant Uppers: Choose nylon, coated leather, or quick-dry synthetic straps to withstand splashes and humid air.
• Stable Soles: Look for modest wedges or platforms (1–1.5 inches) that maintain a dressy profile without wobbling on uneven surfaces.
• Secure Adjustments: Buckles, Velcro tabs, and elastic gussets allow you to tighten or loosen as your feet naturally expand in the heat.
• Easy Slip-On Design: A back strap or enclosed heel keeps the sandal in place on walks, yet the overall shape lets you kick off your shoes quickly when you reach the table.

Pair these with high-waisted shorts and a linen shirt, a cotton wrap skirt, or tapered joggers for seamless style no matter where your summer day leads.

What Should Women Over 50 Look for in Summer Sandals?

As our feet evolve, selecting sandals with supportive features becomes essential:

• Arch Support: Look for molded footbeds – cork, PU, or injected EVA  – that softly cradle the midfoot. Proper arch alignment helps prevent fatigue and reduces pressure on ankles and knees.
• Cushioning Layers: A multi-layer sole (memory foam over PU, over an EVA base) offers pressure relief at the heel and forefoot. This soft landing decreases impact on joints during extended walks.
• Adjustable Fit: Multiple adjustment points – at the toe, midfoot, and heel – ensure a personalized fit that adapts to swelling or changes in foot width.
• Breathability: Perforations, open-weave fabrics, or minimal upper coverage allow airflow. Cooler feet mean fewer blisters and more comfort in hot weather.
• Traction: Rubber outsoles with shallow lugs or micro-treads give you reliable grip on wet sand, pool decks, or polished restaurant floors.
• Lightweight Build: Materials like cork, EVA, and lightweight PU reduce shoe weight, helping you stay energized during long outings.

Read more: 2025 Spring/Summer Shoe Trends – Comfortable and Stylish Options.

10 Standout Sandals for Summer 2025

Below are ten pairs that merge the above features with this year’s top trends.

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed

The Arizona Soft Footbed Metallic Copper updates Birkenstock’s classic two-strap sandal in smooth, metallic-finished leather. Its Soft Footbed combines a foam-layered cork-latex base with a suede lining for immediate arch support and gentle comfort. The lightweight EVA outsole offers flexible, shock-absorbing traction, while the adjustable pin-buckle straps ensure a custom fit.

Key Features:

• Soft Footbed with foam cushion over traditional cork-latex foundation
• Metallic natural-leather upper with two adjustable metal pin buckles
• Suede-lined footbed for breathability and comfort
• Flexible EVA sole for lightweight support
• Made in Germany for durability and quality craftsmanship

ECCO gruuv Nubuck Sandal

The ECCO Gruuv Sol W sandal blends sporty aesthetics with everyday ease by using supple, premium ECCO leather for its three adjustable straps. Subtle reflective piping trims each strap, adding a modern accent without overwhelming the design. Beneath, a microfiber-covered footbed gently cradles your sole, wicking moisture and maintaining a cool, dry feel during all-day wear.

Built with ECCO’s FLUIDFORM™ Technology, the Phorene™ midsole is molded directly to the upper, creating a seamless, flexible bond that delivers responsive cushioning and energy return. A molded PU heel cup and hidden arch support promote proper alignment, while the lightly textured rubber outsole provides reliable traction on sidewalks, boardwalks, or café floors. Made with attention to both form and function, the Gruuv Sol W transitions from morning errands to laid-back lunch dates.

Key Features:

• Three adjustable premium-leather straps with reflective piping for a custom fit
• Microfiber-lined footbed to wick moisture and enhance comfort
• Seamless Phorene™ midsole poured with FLUIDFORM™ Technology for cushioning and flexibility
• Molded PU heel cup and built-in arch support for posture and stability
• Lightly textured rubber outsole for secure grip
• Available in multiple colorways to complement casual and refined summer outfits

Vionic Saratoga Wedge Sandal

The Vionic Saratoga Wedge Sandal combines style with Vionic’s renowned VIO MOTION™ technology to deliver both a chic look and biomechanical support. Soft, braided leather straps wrap across the foot, leading to a concealed hook-and-loop ankle strap for an easy, secure fit. The midsole features a natural jute rope-wrapped wedge (approximately 2.5 inches at the heel and ¾-inch platform) that offers graceful lift without compromising stability. 

Underfoot, the molded EVA footbed – with deep heel cup, contoured arch support, and shock-absorbing cushioning – promotes proper alignment and reduces fatigue on long days spent walking or standing.

Built for comfort and style, the Saratoga’s rubber outsole adds reliable traction on both boardwalks and café floors, while the padded braided detailing brings a handcrafted texture that pairs well with summer dresses or cropped trousers. The espadrille-inspired wedge and adjustable strap make this sandal a great choice for women over 50 seeking height, support, and a timeless aesthetic.

Key Features:

• VIO MOTION™ Footbed: Biomechanically designed arch support, deep heel cup, and forefoot flexibility for natural alignment
• Soft, padded straps with a woven texture for added visual depth
• Adjustable Ankle Strap: Hook-and-loop closure for a customizable fit
• Jute-Wrapped Wedge
• Molded EVA Midsole: Shock-absorbing cushioning underfoot for all-day comfort
• Rubber Outsole that are lightly textured for secure grip on varied surfaces
• APMA-Approved: Meets standards for promoting foot health and well-being

Clarks Arla Shore

The Clarks Arla Shore in Black Textile combines a streamlined flatform silhouette with Cloudsteppers™ comfort technology, making it a go-to for women who want both ease and style. Its soft textile straps cross over the toe and midfoot, offering a feminine look without pinching, and an open round-toe design that accommodates natural foot shape comfortably. The stretchy side panels and padded heel area ensure a secure, slip-on fit that feels custom without any fuss.

Underneath, Clarks’ Cushion Soft™ insole – featuring a high-rebound foam layer cleverly concealed inside – absorbs each step’s impact while the lightweight sole provides gentle flexibility and stability. 

With a modest 1.57-inch wedge heel and built-in arch support, these sandals deliver subtle lift without compromising balance on varied surfaces. Plus, the machine-washable construction means you can keep them looking fresh all season long.

Key Features:

• Cushion Soft™ high-rebound foam inlay for lasting comfort
• Soft black textile upper with padded straps and stretch panels
• 1.57-inch heel for a subtle, stable lift
• Lightweight, flexible sole for shock absorption and traction
• Machine washable for easy care and maintenance
• Cloudsteppers™ design approved for long-wear comfort

Naot Kayla

The Naot Kayla Wide sandal redefines all-day comfort with its three supportive straps – including a hook-and-loop instep strap and stabilizing backstrap – made from soft, full-grain leather that molds to your foot over time. 

At the heart of the design is Naot’s anatomically contoured cork-and-latex footbed, topped with a plush suede lining that cushions each step and wicks away moisture. From the first wear, you’ll notice how the footbed gently adapts to your unique arch and heel shape, delivering a custom “spa-like” feel that reduces fatigue whether you’re shopping downtown or strolling along the boardwalk.

Beneath the cork core, a lightweight EVA sole provides responsive shock absorption and slip-resistant traction, ensuring stability. The 1.75-inch heel height, complemented by a 0.5-inch platform, offers a subtle lift without compromising balance, while the wide fit accommodates naturally broader feet without pinching or pressure points. 

Key Features:

• Anatomic cork-and-latex footbed with suede lining for personalized arch support and moisture control
• Three adjustable leather straps (including instep and backstrap) for a secure, customizable fit
• Lightweight EVA outsole for flexible cushioning and reliable grip
• 1.75″ heel with 0.5″ platform for subtle lift and stable balance
• Wide fit design to accommodate broader foot shapes comfortably

Teva Original Universal

The Teva Original Universal sandal traces its heritage back to 1984, when its rugged design first carried adventurers down the Grand Canyon. Today, that same versatile silhouette adapts to city sidewalks, dockside strolls, and festival grounds alike. Its quick-dry webbing – made from traceable, recycled REPREVE® polyester yarn – wraps comfortably around the foot, while the Universal Strapping System™ and easy hook-and-loop closure let you dial in a precisely secure fit in seconds. 

Underfoot, a molded EVA midsole with built-in heel cupping and an “arch cookie” cushions each step and supports your natural alignment. A durable rubber outsole delivers reliable traction, and a peppermint-based Life Natural™ treatment keeps odors at bay. Fully vegan and constructed for adventure, this sandal is engineered to perform whether you’re navigating wet rocks or weaving through busy streets.

Key Features:

• Traceable REPREVE® recycled-polyester webbing for quick-dry durability
• Universal Strapping System™ with multiple adjustment points and hook-and-loop closure for a custom fit
• Molded EVA midsole featuring heel cupping and arch cookie for enhanced support
• Rubber outsole designed for dependable grip on varied surfaces
• Life Natural™ peppermint-based anti-odor treatment
• Vegan construction throughout – ideal for eco-minded adventurers

Hoka Ora Recovery Flip

The Hoka Ora Recovery Flip features a full EVA midsole that provides excellent cushioning for the feet. Its memory foam footbed ensures a personalized fit, while the signature rocker design helps promote a smooth stride. The water-friendly strap makes it a practical choice for various activities.

Key features:

• Full EVA midsole
• Memory foam footbed
• Signature rocker design
• Water-friendly strap

Lulu Crystal Back-Strap Sandals

The FitFlop Lulu Crystal Back-Strap Sandal styles everyday wear with a dazzling row of crystals along the heel strap, while its ergonomic sole design keeps your feet supported through every step. The T-bar front and adjustable back strap lock your foot in place without pressure points, and the anatomically shaped midsole gently hugs your arch for natural alignment. From the first wear, you’ll notice how the dual-density footbed cushions both heel and forefoot zones, absorbing impact and reducing fatigue on cobblestone strolls or long outdoor markets.

The lightweight outsole delivers a responsive yet stable platform, thanks to its blend of high-rebound cushioning under the heel and firmer support in the midsole. The result is an eye-catching sandal that marries comfort and sparkle – ideal for summer outings where you want both style and all-day ease.

Key Features:

• Crystal embellishment adds a touch of glamour while securing the heel
• High-rebound cushioning under heel and forefoot with firmer midsole stability
• Anatomically shaped footbed contoured to support natural arch alignment and reduce pressure zones
• Customizable fit without pinching or slipping
• Lightweight Outsole
• Vegan-Friendly Materials

Sam Edelman Bay Slide

The Sam Edelman Bay Slide Sandal offers a minimalist single-band design in smooth leather that slips on easily, while its memory-foam–lined footbed cushions every step. The low ½-inch block heel provides a subtle lift without sacrificing stability, and the open-toe profile gives room for airflow and comfort. A lightly textured rubber outsole ensures reliable traction on both indoor and outdoor surfaces, making this slide a great choice for casual brunches or weekend strolls.

Key Features:

• Wide leather upper for a clean, streamlined look
• Memory-foam footbed that adapts to your foot and absorbs impact
• ½-inch block heel for a slight, stable lift
• Open-toe design to promote breathability
• Rubber outsole with light tread for dependable grip
• Slip-on style for quick and easy wear

Dolce Vita Starla Crochet Sandals Natural Knit

The Dolce Vita Starla Crochet Sandals feature a soft, open-knit upper in a neutral cream tone that wraps the foot in breathable comfort, while a subtle scalloped edge adds a handcrafted touch. The mid-height heel (approximately 1.25 inches) provides just enough lift to lengthen the leg without compromising stability. 

Inside, a lightly cushioned footbed lined in smooth faux leather cradles your sole, and the open-weave design allows air to circulate, keeping feet cool on warm days. An adjustable ankle strap with a discreet buckle closure ensures a secure, personalized fit, making these sandals a perfect match for linen trousers or flowing midi skirts.

Key Features:

• Neutral-hued open weave for airy style
• 1.25″ platform heel provides gentle lift while maintaining balance
• Soft lining for all-day comfort
• Adjustable ankle strap with a discreet buckle for a custom fit
• Lightweight outsole flexible rubber base for dependable traction
• Handcrafted Aesthetic

How to Care for Your 2025 Summer Sandals

Proper care extends lifespan and keeps your sandals looking sharp:

• Routine Cleaning: Wipe straps and footbeds with a damp cloth after salty or sandy days.
• Leather Conditioning: Every month, apply a cream-based leather conditioner to maintain suppleness.
• Air-Dry Only: Let wet pairs dry in shade – direct sun can warp soles and fade colors.
• Shape Retention: Store sandals with tissue paper or shoe shapers to prevent footbeds from collapsing.
• Rotation Strategy: Swap between at least two pairs during the week to let cushioning rebound fully.

Where to Find 2025 Summer Sandals

All 10suggestions are available via direct-to-consumer sites (Birkenstock, Ecco, Vionic, etc.), premium department stores (Nordstrom, Dillard’s), and online retailers like Zappos and Amazon. 

Read more: ​​Best Walking Shoes for Senior Women.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What are your favorite summer sandal trends? Where do you like to shop for your summer sandals? Do you wear sandals from the beach to your brunch date? Tell us about it in the comments below.