Choosing sandals for long days on your feet

The right sandal depends less on the label and more on how you spend your day: how long you stand, how far you walk, and what surfaces you are on.

Thong sandals: easy on, easy off

Thong (toe-post) sandals are quick to slip on and suit time at home, short errands and warm, wet weather. Because nothing holds the heel, your toes do a little work to keep them on. For long distances, many people prefer a style with more hold.

Strap sandals: a secure, adjustable hold

Sandals with straps across the foot and behind the heel keep the footbed under you as you walk. Hook-and-loop straps let you adjust the fit across the instep — handy if your feet feel fuller later in the day.

Closed-toe sandals: coverage with airflow

Closed-toe and fisherman-style sandals protect the toes and look smarter for work, while cut-outs keep air moving. A good choice for commuting and offices.

A quick checklist

• Your heel sits fully on the footbed, with a little room in front of your toes
• Straps can be fastened comfortably without pressing into the skin
• The sole feels steady when you stand on one foot
• You have tried them indoors on a clean floor before wearing them out (and kept the packaging until you are sure)