Quick poll: Have you picked up a pickleball racket lately? Challenged friends to a game of beach volleyball? Traded your indoor gym sesh for outdoor walks? Whatever your preferred mode of movement is, summer tends to come with a serious urge to get on your feet.
That on-the-move mindset makes the season fun and festive—but it can also put stress on your muscles and joints. Take it from podiatrist Timothy Oldani, DPM, FACFAS: “Typically, people increase their activity level in the summer,” he says. “This increase in activity can lead to overuse injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and stress fractures.”
Here’s the good news, though: A simple upgrade to your shoe closet can help bolster your body from the ground up (and keep your activity schedule going strong). “By wearing the proper footwear, the incidence of overuse injuries can be significantly decreased,” Dr. Oldani says. “Footwear that provides adequate support through the arch, and good shock absorption through the heel and under the ball of the foot, is essential.” In other words, those $5 foam flip flops you’ve been rocking are chic—but they’re not giving your feet the support they need.
Not sure what to slip on instead? Dr. Oldani is weighing in on a slew of podiatrist-approved shoes for the summer that are equal parts comfortable *and* cute. From cushioned sandals to classic ballet flats, you can find all these supportive (and seriously affordable) picks at QVC. Check them out—and then head to checkout. Your summer feet will thank you.
Shop Comfortable Summer Shoes
Revitalign Orthotic Perforated Neoprene Mules — $59.00
A summer shoe non-negotiable? An easy slide-on for morning coffee walks, evening ice cream cones, and backyard puttering in between—and this breathable mule, made with perforated material, fits the bill. “These slides are an excellent choice for those with toe deformities, such as hammertoes and bunions,” Dr. Oldani says. “They have a neoprene upper that will stretch and conform to these deformities. “There is also a built-in metatarsal pad to reduce pressure across the ball of the foot.”
Skechers BOBS Slip-ins Washable Vegan Sneakers — $60.00
Make your daily hot-girl walks more comfortable with these durable sneakers. The thick outsole ensures great support through your arch and mid-foot, and the slip-on style is ideal for people who deal with arthritis or find lacing up shoes difficult, Dr. Oldani says. Keep things classic with a black pair, or lean into the season with a splash of sage or lavender.
Alegria Leather Adjustable Slide Sandals — $80.00
Summer is for sandals—and it’s time to upgrade your shoe game with a supportive pair. Dr. Oldani loves these funky leather slides for their orthotic cork footbed. “This provides great support through the arch, especially for a sandal,” he says. “This design alleviates some of the pressure and weight passed through the great toe joint [while] walking.”
Dr. Scholl’s Ballet Flat — $67.00
ICYMI, ballet flats are back (just ask TikTok). If you want to get in on the trend, but you’re hesitant because of a history of *ahem* sweaty soles, add this lightweight pair to your cart. The shoes are designed with an anti-microbial and anti-odor insole, which is especially helpful during the summer. “The outsole is also much more rugged and durable than that of a traditional ballet flat,” Dr. Oldani says—so they’re practically made for on-your-feet season.
Clarks Cloudsteppers Sport Thong Sandals — $43.00
A traditional flip flop isn’t the most supportive shoe in the game—that’s no surprise. But it’s possible to rock this beach essential and give your soles some love. This pair, which comes in 18 different colors, provides shock absorption and features a supportive footbed that helps reduce pressure while walking, Dr. Oldani says.
So whether you’re strolling on the boardwalk, heading to the farmer’s market, or hitting the courts, slide into one of these supportive and stylish shoes for happy feet, all summer long.
Note: Prices taken at the time of publication and are subject to change.
