Best Sandals for Travel
Picking outfits for a warm-weather trip should be exciting, not stressful. For summer travel, the right sandals make a huge difference. Whether your plans include hiking, long days of walking, or beach time, Stan’s has a curated selection to keep your feet comfortable, supported, and ready for adventure. Visit any of our three Milwaukee locations or shop online at stansshoes.com.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SANDALS
Before you shop, think about:
- Purpose: hiking, heavy walking, beach/pool, or casual city wear?
- Support: arch support, cushioned midsole (EVA or similar), and a secure fit.
- Practical features: water resistance or quick-dry straps, grippy outsoles, breathable materials, and lightweight construction for packing.
Best Hiking Sandals
Hiking sandals are built for variable terrain where you want breathability without losing protection. Ideal for day hikes, coastal trails, and rocky paths, they balance ventilation with trail-ready features so your feet stay cool but safe.
What to look for: toe protection, traction, a stability shank, secure fastening, quick-dry materials, and durable outsoles.
Top picks: KEEN Newport / Newport H2 (men & unisex), KEEN Whisper (women)
KEEN Newport
Rubber toe protection, razor-siped lugs for traction, EVA midsole for stability, and a lace-lock bungee. Newport H2 adds quick-dry lining and webbing.
Shop Newport
KEEN Whisper
Trail-ready protection with multidirectional lug traction, arch support, TPU stability shank, and an adjustable elastic cord.
Shop WhisperBest Walking Sandals
Walking sandals prioritize cushioning and arch support for long distances on paved surfaces, cobblestones, and airport terminals. They keep feet comfortable over many miles and help reduce joint fatigue.
What to look for: contoured footbeds, shock-absorbing midsoles, secure straps, and breathable premium materials.
Top picks: Birkenstock Arizona (men & women), ECCO Yucatan (men & women)
Birkenstock Arizona
Contoured cork-latex footbed, cushioned heel cup, and adjustable buckles for a custom fit over time. Ideal for long museum days, city walking, and travel itineraries that demand steady comfort.
Shop Arizona
ECCO Yucatan
Lightweight, secure straps for a locked-in feel, a supportive midsole that cushions impact, and a grippy outsole built for long walks and varied urban terrain. ECCO’s leather or synthetic options add a refined look that travels well.
Shop YucatanBest Beach Sandals
Beach sandals are designed for sand, sun, and water. They should be easy to remove, quick to dry, and offer grip on wet surfaces. Many double as casual walking sandals for short distances, and the best choices combine water-ready materials with meaningful support.
What to look for: quick-dry straps, secure adjustability, non-slip outsoles, and lightweight construction.
Top picks: OluKai 'Ohana (women), Vionic beach sandals (men & women)
Olukai 'Ohana
Contoured cork-latex footbed, cushioned heel cup, and adjustable buckles for a custom fit over time. Ideal for long museum days, city walking, and travel itineraries that demand steady comfort.
Shop 'Ohana
Vionic Sandals
Vionic brings clinical-style arch support and cushioned midsoles to beach-ready designs. Many beach-capable Vionic styles include water-resistant uppers or quick-dry linings, stable footbeds for longer wear, and durable outsoles that handle slippery surfaces.
Shop VionicTravel Sandal Care & Packing Tips
- Bring two pairs: a sturdier walking or hiking pair and a lighter pair for evenings or the beach. This protects your main sandals and gives you options.
- Break them in: wear new sandals around town or on short walks before long travel days to avoid hotspots.
- Pack smart: stuff socks or small items into sandals to save space and help them hold shape. Wrap delicate materials in clothing.
- Rinse after salt or sand exposure: fresh water prevents salt corrosion and sand abrasion, and limits odors. Let liners air-dry fully.
- Treat leather and cork: use appropriate conditioners and avoid long-term sun exposure to prevent drying and cracking.
- Quick repairs: a small roll of athletic tape and a travel glue can get you through minor strap issues.
Where to buy Sandals in Milwaukee and Online
No matter your destination or style, Stan’s has sandals for travel. Visit our three Greater Milwaukee locations - Brookfield, Greenfield, and Glendale - to try on styles and get personalized fitting advice, or shop nationwide at stansshoes.com. Our staff will help match foot shape, planned activities, and fit preferences so you leave with sandals that support both comfort and style.