Chances are, you’ve seen or owned a pair of cork sandals within the past few years. This style trend is here to stay, and we’ve got good news for you—it’s great for your feet!
Cork footbeds are known to promote good foot health in addition to being comfortable and sustainable. Discover why and check out our favorite styles from cork-based brands Birkenstock, Mephisto, Haflinger, and Naot.
You can stock up on cork sandals in store or online today at Stan’s Shoes. Happy shopping!
Why Cork Sandals Are Good for Your Feet
- Cork footbeds mold to your feet: If you’re looking for a perfect fit, cork is the answer! The material reshapes to match your feet, providing support exactly where you need it in the arch, heel, and metatarsals.
- Cork is comfortable: Cork is a very flexible and lightweight material, so it doesn’t feel stiff and heavy like other sandals often do. It also helps to absorb shock, which reduces joint pain and fatigue.
- Cork is breathable: Because cork is naturally porous, it circulates air better than other footbed materials. This prevents your feet from getting sweaty or odorous during hot summer days.
- Cork is sustainable: Cork is a natural material harvested from the bark of certain oak trees. One oak tree can be harvested several times without harming the tree, so you can feel good about your environmental impact when wearing cork sandals.
- Cork is durable: Sandals made with cork footbeds often last for several years of moderate use, making them a good investment even at a higher price point.
How to Clean Cork Sandals
Cork sandals are made for durability, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need some TLC along the way. Learn how to clean cork sandals and stock up on cork sealant in advance.
Women’s Cork Sandals
Many brands have incorporated cork into their footbeds with great success. Here are a few of our favorites.
- Birkenstock: This iconic brand is the best-known of all cork sandal producers, and they’re certainly worth the hype! With dozens of styles and sizing for everyone, the whole world can find a pair of Birkenstock sandals to enjoy.
- Mephisto: Mephisto prides itself on making sandals worn worldwide, and it’s no wonder their fanbase extends so far when you consider their cushioned insoles, arch support, and ergonomic footbeds.
- Haflinger: Best known for its superior slippers, Haflinger is no slouch when it comes to sandals, either! Their cork footbeds are specially contoured and cushioned, while their lightweight rubber soles with a rocker heel provide extra traction.
- Naot: Crafted by hand, Naot shoes are sustainably made using the highest-quality materials. Their insoles are uniquely engineered to replicate the shape of one’s foot and lined with suede for amazing comfort and support.
Best Cork Sandals
If you’re looking for an everyday go-to sandal, you can’t go wrong with any of these styles.
- Haflinger Andrea: This double-strap style is notable for its subtly cushioned footbed and lightweight rubber sole with a rocker heel, which provides a trustworthy grip across various terrains.
- Birkenstock Mayari: A thong-style sandal with wrap-around toe strap provides a secure fit, bolstered further by its anatomically designed footbed.
- Mephisto Hyacinta: Triple the straps means triple the adjustability, which is great for those looking for a custom fit. Plus, a SOFT-AIR midsole helps to absorb the shocks of footfall while AIR-RELAX technology helps prevent fallen arches.
Shop all cork sandals in store and online today!
Best Cork Platform Sandals
If you’re looking to (literally) elevate your style while still enjoying the benefits of cork sandals, platforms are the way to go! Here are a few of our favorites.
- Birkenstock Almina: Everything you love about Birkenstock, just 15 mm higher. Textured leather straps add classy style to this comfortable and lightweight platform sandal.
- Mephisto Dominica: Made to go anywhere, this platform’s heavy tread is both functional and makes a fashion statement. Two adjustable straps, one encircling the heel, ensure a perfectly snug fit.
- Naot Meringue: The sky’s the limit with a 1.5” platform and 2.2” heel, made even more comfortable with sleek suede lining. Like the Mephisto Dominica, straps along the forefoot and heel make for an easy on/off and extra customizability.
Shop all cork platform sandals in store and online today!
Best Cork Wedge Sandals
For a mode traditional heeled look that utilizes cork, try cork wedge sandals like the following.
- Mephisto Lissandra: Standing tall at 2.5”, these wedge sandals still don’t sacrifice everything we love about cork, from its contoured footbeds that mold to your feet to a shock-absorbing midsole.
- Naot Summer: Simple and sleek, this 2.75” heel may seem high, but it still supports you as you walk due to its TPR sole, which is engineered for shock absorption and flexibility.
- Birkenstock Soley: A lower heel at 1.5”, this style boasts a supple leather upper that provides extra comfort and breathability. Plus, its sole is water-repellent and dirt-resistant.
Shop all cork wedge sandals in store and online today!
Shop Cork Sandals at Stan’s
If you want to peruse a wide variety of cork sandals all in one place, Stan’s is the best place to shop for your summer shoes! Plus, in addition to the styles we shared, Stan’s carries dozens of brands encompassing sandals, sneakers, athletic shoes, dress shoes, insoles, shoe care accessories, and much more.
Visit any of our three Milwaukee area locations today, or shop online 24/7 at stansshoes.com