Key Takeaways
- Must-have sandals include casual slides and a sporty pair for outdoor adventures.
- Wedges keep your feet cool while providing a dressier, put-together look.
- Leather flip-flops are durable and versatile for everyday outings.
We’re called What’s Hot Clothing, but we still know a thing or two about beating the heat! When those summer scorchers roll around, you’ll be glad to have summer-ready footwear that’s both comfortable and breathable, as well as fashionable.
Owning a few different types of women's sandals is the key to adapting to any summer adventure. Whether you’re hitting the beach or heading to a destination wedding, we’re here to help you plan your summertime collection. Set your feet free with these must-have summer shoes!
FAQS
What is the best material for summer shoes?
If your feet run hot or you prioritize breathability, consider shoes or sandals made from canvas, linen, or mesh. If you prioritize durability and comfort, consider shoes or sandals made from leather or synthetic leather.
What brands make podiatrist-recommended sandals?
Vionic, Birkenstock, and Teva all make must-have sandals that come highly recommended by podiatrists. All three brands are known for designing stable footwear with arch support and cushioning.
What color shoes should I wear in the summer?
When shopping for must-have summer shoes, pick colors that go with your usual summertime attire. Neutral tones, like brown, black, white, and tan, allow you to pair your footwear with virtually any outfit. You may also want vibrant, colorful sandals for those beachy looks!
Are leather shoes too hot for summer?
Although leather is hard-wearing, it’s actually more breathable than many people realize. Leather is naturally porous, which allows air to escape.
When shopping for different types of women's sandals made from leather, pay close attention to the design and materials. Look for sandals that have open designs that let your feet breathe and thin materials that won’t retain sweat.
Are loafers too hot for summer?
For many stylish ladies, loafers are must-have summer shoes. While we don’t recommend them for daytime outdoor activities, loafers are a great choice for wearing around town when the sun goes down. Make sure to choose loafers with low-profile designs and thinner materials to keep it light.
Slides and Flip-Flops

Does it get any more classic than a pair of slides or flip-flops? Gone are the days of slides being only for athletes. These days, slides are a comfortable and trendy addition to any outfit, and they’ve come a long way. Just check out the unique styles by FitFlop and UGG!
Modern slides come in a variety of styles, colors, and designs. Match a sparkling pair with jeans and your favorite tank top for an effortlessly casual look. Or, rock a leather pair with your favorite sundress for a timelessly sweet outfit you can wear all summer long.
However you decide to style them, these must-have summer shoes rank high on our list because of their versatility. Slides are perfect alternatives to slippers for wearing around the house. You can slide them on when running errands, grabbing a midnight snack, or getting the mail. And, the open-toe design makes them the best footwear for the feet that run hot!
Wedges
Heeled shoes don’t always have to hurt your feet, and if you’re looking for an elevated version of the most comfortable sandals on our list, wedges are a must-have.
We love wedges, because they easily transform a look from casual to eye-catching, but aren’t so dressy that you can’t pair these must-have summer shoes with your favorite jeans and a tank top. Or, dress them up with a chic jumpsuit and stylish accessories.
The best summer kicks will keep you comfortable and can be worn for many occasions, so whether you need a pair of wedges for a wedding, outdoor barbecue, or just for a casual day at work, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth. We can’t recommend Vionic wedges enough!
Strappy Sporty Sandals
It’s important to have different types of women's sandals for outdoor adventures. We recommend secure, sporty sandals with straps.
Strappy sport sandals come in a variety of styles, and there are many brands to choose from. Teva is one of the most popular brands, and for good reason! Their must-have summer shoes are perfect for hiking in dry, desert climates, traversing wet and muddy terrain, or just walking around town all day.
Birkenstock is another trusted brand that makes fantastic sandals for casually exploring the great outdoors. Not only are both brands’ footwear perfect for adventures, but they’re amazing for those hot, busy days running errands or when you’re out with the kids.
Sporty sandals can also be fashionable, so you don’t have to always look like you’re hitting the trail. Pair these must-have sandals with some linen shorts and a cotton button-up for a relaxed and stylish look, or go all out and rock them as boot alternatives on the trail with cargo shorts, a backpack, and your favorite athletic top.
Leather Sandals
As you pick out your must-have summer shoes, don’t overlook leather! Whether you opt for the real thing or synthetic, leather sandals make our list because they’re super versatile. Leather is durable yet gentle on the skin, and its casual style lets you seamlessly transition from daytime activities to evening dinner plans.
Sanuk, Alegria, and Mephisto all make leather (or synthetic) sandals that keep your feet cool while providing a put-together look. This summer classic may seem basic, but we all need footwear that goes with everything. Whether you wear them out for brunch with friends or at the beach boardwalk, they’ll keep you feeling cool and confident.
Order Your Must-Have Summer Shoes Today
What’s Hot Clothing has all the different types of women's sandals and flip-flops you need to showcase your fashion sense. We have men’s casual sandals and children’s flip-flops, too! Explore our collections, and find the most comfortable, breathable, and stylish summer sandals for your wardrobe today!