Best summer sandals and footwear to buy in 2024
We’ve hunted down the perfect summer sandals that go with absolutely everything, all without breaking the bank.
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Sandals are one of those summer wardrobe staples you just can’t go without.
The right pair will be breathable on muggy days, versatile enough to take you from day to night and, most importantly, comfortable enough to stand in for hours at a time.
This season there’s plenty of choice when it comes to what sandals to buy — from delicate strappy styles to Y2K platform styles, breezy slides and even Crocs.
Related: Best women's walking shoes
Here to help you make sense of it all we’ve rounded up the best of each category here so you can shop with ease.
Read on for our guide to the best sandals you can buy right now including the $160 AERE Leather Thong Sandals that are an identical dupe for the $355 A.EMERY Shel sandals, which shoppers say they're "obsessed" with.
We've also got our eye on the once "uncool" Havaianas thongs that have unexpectedly become the it-shoe of the summer and these leather sandals from Mango that are a great alternative to the $1539 City leather flip flops from The Row.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST SUMMER 2024 SANDALS: EDITOR’S PICKS
AERE Leather Thong Sandals, $160 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Dupe for viral A.EMERY Shel sandals; chic
What to consider: May not be supportive enough
Material: Leather | Colour: Black and brown | Shipping: Free shipping over $75
What You Need To Know
If the popular A.EMERY Shel sandals have been on your TikTok FYP like they have for me, you'd know they cost a pretty penny - $355. Thankfully though, we've found an identical dupe from AERE that costs a fraction of the price and also made from leather - need I say more?
Featuring a smooth leather upper, contoured footbed, thong straps and wrap-around ankle ties, TikTok user @meggie.fairb says she's "obsessed with them" and "the best dupe and affordable alternative" for the A.EMERY pair.
"This is style is actually really timeless in my opinion," she said.
Many users also commented on the video writing: "the perfect sandal", "just ordered" and "omg these are exactly what I'm looking for. Rushing to THE ICONIC now".
Havaianas Slim Basic Thongs, $40 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Easy to throw on shoes that go with everything
What to consider: No support
Material: Rubber | Colour: Multiple options | Shipping: Free shipping over $75
What You Need To Know
It's not reinventing the wheel to say that thongs are *the* shoe for summer. People have been wearing the shoe for years now, it can even be traced back to ancient times. But while in more recent times they might have become the unofficial Aussie summer uniform when at the beach, thanks to some high-end brands like Chanel and The Row, they've become the new it shoe.
Seen everywhere on fashion girls in the Northern Hemisphere summer, you can bet that they will be everywhere in Aus once the weather starts properly warming up.
But this is a little bit different than your usual fashion trend. Instead of just wearing the shoes and being done with it, it's all about how you style it. At least according to TikTok.
Dozens of videos have been posted with the caption, "Do people know I'm wearing flip flops in Carolyn Bessette, The Row, The Olsen Twins, luxury minimalist kind of way? Or do they think I am just wearing flip-flops?" Essentially to jump on the trend, just wear some classic black pants and a white tee and you're good to go.
Leather sandals with adornment, $139.95 at Mango
Why we love it: Dupe for The Row flip flops
What to consider: Coming from overseas, delivery is estimated to take between 3-7 working days
Material: Leather | Colour: Black | Shipping: Free delivery over $100
What You Need To Know
Speaking of The Row, these leather sandals from Mango are a great alternative to the $1539 City leather flip flops from The Olsen Twins' brand. Crafted from 100 per cent goatskin leather featuring an easy slip-on design, these are a slightly elevated take on the classic rubber thongs. Plus, the gold detailing is super chic and helps add a little something extra for when you want to feel a bit dressed up.
Aere Crossover Leather Footbed Sandals, $90 (down from $150) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Almost identical to the Marni Fussbett sandals
What to consider: The sole is not leather (the rest of the shoe is)
Material: Leather | Colour: Three options | Shipping: Free delivery over $75
What You Need To Know
If you're looking for a sandal that offers a bit more support and comfort than a regular thong, these Aere sandals are the way to go. Plus, they are an almost exact dupe of the $1150 Marni Fussbett leather slingback sandals. Crafted from a leather upper with a moulded footbed, these sandals are perfect for pretty much every occasion.
Ace Slide, $229.95 at Rollie Nation
Why we love it: Quality arch support
What to consider: These are not overly formal so best for casual occasions
Material: Leather | Colour: Three options | Shipping: Free shipping over $60
What You Need To Know
Sandal season is well and truly here. If you didn’t know, chunky platform sandals are the move this summer and we’re loving the Ace Slide by Rollie Nation in particular.
Australian-designed, these sandals feature tumbled leather straps with adjustable buckles, a 5.3cm platform outsole, EVA rubber foam outsole, natural rubber midsole and anti-slip tread.
Made to be lightweight and durable, they’re as versatile as they are comfy – plus they’re easy to dress up with a beautiful maxi dress or down with denim shorts and plain tee.
One five-star reviewer said “I love these!!! Great summer slides.”
Another commented on a TikTok video saying: “These shoes are the best. Sooo comfortable, just love mine.”
BEST SANDAL SLIDES
Slides are the best summer sandals for quickly getting out the door, or for activities where you’ll want to slip your shoes off and on with ease, like picnics and beach days. My advice? Pick non-leather if you want a pair that will get you through pool sessions and other water-adjacent activities, but leather slides will definitely last you longer and feel more comfortable if you’re more of a city person, or looking for sandals that don’t head to the beach with you.
Alias Mae Paris, $249 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Classic style that has been on trend for a few years now
What to consider: A little more expensive than others on the list
Material: Leather | Colour: Three options | Shipping: Free delivery over $75
What You Need To Know
Alias Mae is an Australian footwear brand with serious street cred thanks to its Scandi-inspired shoes. By far their most popular style is these Paris slides, with celebrity fans like Nadia Bartel and Kendall Jenner.
They also have a following among fashionistas on TikTok and Instagram, with shoppers who own a pair saying they are the ultimate “it girl" sandal that feels like “pillows to walk on”.
These slides are stylish while still delivering serious comfort thanks to their moulded black footbed and rounded open-toe design — think of them as a boujee alternative to Birkenstocks.
Crocs Crush Clog, $63.74 (down from $84.99) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: They may be controversial but that's kind of the point
What to consider: You'll definitely make a statement with these bad boys on your feet
Material: EVA | Colour: Six options | Shipping: Free delivery over $75
What You Need To Know
We’re guessing you never expected to see a pair of Crocs on a wrap of the best sandals, but these trusty shoes have seen a surge of popularity coincide with their 20th anniversary.
They’re not only on trend because they’re so customisable, but also seriously comfortable and made from a breathable material that’s lightweight and flexible.
These Crocs are one of the brand’s best-selling styles, offering a cool platform and coming in a variety of both wearable and fun colours.
Five-star reviewers have described them as the “most amazing shoe”, with another customer commenting “wasn’t expecting to be as obsessed with them as I am”.
Nine West Giselle, $159.95 at Nine West
Why we love it: Will go with practically everything
What to consider: No arch support
Material: Leather | Colour: Seven options | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $99.95
Tried and Tested by Edwina Carr Barraclough, Senior Manager of Ecommerce Content and Strategy
These Nine West Giselle slides are a dead-ringer dupe for those $1155 Hermes slides you’re seeing every influencer worth their sponsored posts wearing.
I have been testing a pair out and I’m obsessed. They are the perfect goes-with-everything option.
As a hybrid worker on a budget I can no longer afford to fork out for items that can’t be worn in the office and casually so this option was a no-brainer. The sole is beautifully cushioned so they’re very comfy, too.
Eastwood Slides, $179 at Sol Sana
Why we love it: The intricate detailing sets these apart from your average black slide
What to consider: Runs small
Material: Leather | Colour: Seven options | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $150
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Acting Editor
I bought these slides almost two years ago and I still find myself reaching for them over and over again, especially now that the weather is heating up! They’re not only super comfortable – I could literally walk all day in these – but the silver metal detailing and buckles adds a cool edge to the slides that make them unique and dress them up. Whenever I wear them, I’m always asked where I got them from – there’s no higher compliment!
Paradise, $109.95 at Hush Puppies
Why we love it: Contoured footbed makes these shoes more comfortable than a regular flatbed slide
What to consider: Some reviews said these run small and the band across the foot can be tight
Material: Leather upper | Colour: 10 options | Shipping: Free delivery on orders over $99
What You Need To Know
Tan sandals are a great summer investment as they literally go with everything. These Hush Puppies slides are made from smooth leather with a synthetic lining that includes the brand’s ComfyCush footbed to give your heels more support.
BEST CHUNKY SANDALS
Tony Bianco Hiranni Vanilla Sheep Nappa 3.5cm Sandals, $159.95 at Tony Bianco
Why we love it: Super comfortable
What to consider: Not following the sleek, minimalist current trend
Material: Leather | Colour: Four options | Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $150
Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, Editor
These chunky quilted sandals have been popular for a few seasons now and are showing no signs of slowing down.
A (much) cheaper dupe of Chanel’s famed $2740 Dad Sandals these are a great investment if you want sandals with a trendy edge that are comfy to wear walking.
Made from leather with adjustable velcro straps, these sandals have a 3.5cm heel and rounded toe.
I bought my pair of Tony Bianco sandals two years ago and they’re still my favourites today.
I love these sandals because not only are they comfortable but they’re just so versatile.
A perfect dupe for Chanel’s much more expensive version, they are a chic summer option for the office paired with wide legged pants or a slip skirt, plus they look cute with a dress.
BEST COMFY SANDALS
Let’s face it, sometimes the most important thing about your shoes are how comfortable they feel. Here are our picks for the best comfy sandals you can buy right now.
Teva Original Universal – Women’s, $90 (down from $259) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Incredibly comfortable
What to consider: Not a formal shoe you could wear out to a restaurant
Material: Textile | Colour: Multiple options | Shipping: Free delivery over $75
What You Need To Know
OK, we’re calling it — we think Teva’s Original Universal are going to be one of the sandals of the summer. Originally intended as a hiking sandal, they’ve made a resurgence on social media thanks to their Y2K feel, which also happens to be pretty damn comfortable. The #teva currently has over 83 million views on TikTok.
They have adjustable nylon straps, a contoured EVA footbed that moulds to your feet, and are made from recycled plastic bottles.
On TikTok, shoppers say Teva sandals are perfect for “hot girl walks”, with one even going so far as to say the brand makes the “most comfortable shoes you (will) own”. Right now the Original Universal in black are the most popular on THE ICONIC but you can also purchase different colours or a more chunky Teva style here.
BEST STRAPPY SANDALS
Strappy sandals always look so lovely in summer, setting off a fake tan and allowing your feet maximum air on steamy days and nights. Tan strappy sandals are great go-to’s for anyone with a penchant for maxi dresses and flowy skirts, while black strappy sandals can often work well for the office.
Aere Leather Thong Ankle Strap Sandals, $84 (down from $140) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Dainty straps that don't attract too much attention
What to consider: The flat sole might leave your feet worse for wear after a day of walking around
Material: Leather | Colour: Three options | Shipping: Free delivery over $75
What You Need To Know
This strappy style gets a big thumbs up from us for its trendy square toe, as well as being crafted from beautifully buttery leather. We also love the ankle strap for making it a touch more dressy than your regular slides.
Why we love it: Comfortable footbed
What to consider: Not made from leather so not as sturdy
Material: Synthetic | Colour: Two options | Shipping: Free delivery on orders over $99. Otherwise $9.95
What You Need To Know
These gorgeous strappy sandals are sleek and minimalist while still being sturdy on your feet thanks to its buckle fastening around the ankle and the moulded footbed.
Made from Peta Approved Vegan leather with a flat sole, they’re also available in a brown colourway.
Lucie Tan Nappa, $139.95 at Tony Bianco
Why we love it: Versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down
What to consider: The thing straps may be tight or dig in on first wear
Material: Leather | Colour: Two options | Shipping: Free delivery over $150
What You Need To Know
Crafted in a comfy wide footbed, these sandals from Tony Bianco are the best of both worlds. The sleek thin straps ensure they're perfect for both casual and more formal nighttime affairs while the moulded footbed means you don't have to sacrifice comfort for style.
BEST DRESSY SANDALS
Sometimes a special occasion calls for a heel or you may just like the idea of dressing your outfit up with a nice bit of height. I love a good block heel sandal with strappy detailing that’s comfy enough to dance in all night while still looking dressy.
Billini Balton, $67.49 (down from $89.95) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: A classic style that you'll wear for years to come
What to consider: Not made from leather
Material: Faux leather | Colour: Two options | Shipping: Free delivery over $75
What You Need To Know
This shoe frequently tops the bestseller list at THE ICONIC and for good reason. The strappy sandal has a chic minimalist style that goes with everything, plus the block heel is low enough that you can wear them for hours on end.
Easy Steps Valetta Sandals in Navy Glove, $169.95 at Myer
Why we love it: Incredibly comfortable
What to consider: Not necessarily "on trend"
Material: Leather | Colour: Five options | Shipping: Free delivery
What You Need To Know
These get a big tick from us because of their slanted block heel that’s easy to both walk and stand in for several hours.
Featuring a stylish T-strap design in leather they’re available in five colours but our favourite is this navy as it makes a great alternative to neutral black in the warmer months.
Novo Nia Heels, $69.95 at Novo
Why we love it: Comfy block heel but still dressy enough for summer events
What to consider: Suede can be hard to care for
Material: Suede upper | Colour: Three options | Shipping: Free shipping over $99
What You Need To Know
A good pair of slip-on mules will serve you well in the warmer months. They are the perfect block heel for when a dressy shoe is needed but are still casual enough to go with most of your wardrobe. These faux suede mules from Novo get big points for their strappy detailing.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING SUMMER SANDALS
When choosing summer sandals to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Material: Leather is more durable and likely to last longer than synthetic materials. However, it is more expensive so something to consider when buying.
Budget: We made sure to include both high-end and budget picks to suit all shoppers.
Style: Are you looking for a casual slide to throw on to run down to the supermarket or something a bit chicer for a summer event?
Comfort: Unlike sneakers, sandals aren't known for their comfort but you can get some with moulded footbeds that help.
Colour: When it comes to shoes, most of the time it's best to go with something neutral like black so that it will go with the majority of your clothes.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT SANDALS ARE TRENDY THIS SUMMER?
So far we're seeing many of the same sandal styles in vogue again this summer season, but with a lean towards more slim styles. Late 1990s style platform thongs and mules are going to be super popular so investing in a pair for the warmer months is a great option. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with any sandals that are slip-on.
WHAT’S THE BEST MATERIAL FOR SANDALS?
This will depend on both your needs and budget, so it’s best to start off by asking yourself two questions: What will I be wearing my sandals for and how much am I willing to spend? If you’re after sandals you can wear all day and walk in, then leather is the best option as it’s durable and comfortable. If you’re looking for sandals you can wear to the beach then a rubber or synthetic material would be best. If you’re on a budget there are some great imitation leather sandals that cost well under $100 and look almost identical to the real thing.
More Summer Coverage
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