Summer sandals should be the easiest shoes in your wardrobe. The pair you reach for on warm mornings, busy afternoons and those spontaneous plans that turn into an entire day out.
But there's a difference between sandals that look comfortable and sandals that actually fit.
A beautiful design won't help much if your toes slip over the front, your heel hangs off the back or you're constantly adjusting the straps. And when you're shopping online, knowing what to look for can make all the difference.
With South Africa heading into sandal season, here's how to find the right fit before adding your next pair to your summer rotation.
What Does the Right Sandal Fit Look Like?
Start with the footbed: the part of the sandal your foot actually rests on.
When standing naturally, your toes and heels should sit comfortably within the edges of the sole. Your foot shouldn't hang over either end, and the widest part of your foot should be supported rather than spilling over the sides.
Equally, a sandal that's noticeably too long can create problems of its own. If there's excessive space around your foot, you may find yourself sliding forward with every step.
The ideal fit allows a little breathing room without making your foot work to keep the sandal in place.
This becomes especially important with open-toe designs, where there's nowhere to hide an incorrect fit.
Don't Underestimate the Importance of Sandal Straps
Two sandals might look remarkably similar, but the way their straps are constructed can completely change how they feel when worn.
Slip-on sandals offer convenience and effortless summer styling. They're ideal when you want something easy to put on and take off. However, it's important that the upper sits securely enough to prevent excessive movement.
For example, the Miss Black Polpetta 11 Sandal in Chocolate features a double-strap slip-on design with gold detailing. It's a polished everyday option worth considering if you prefer the simplicity of a slide.
Adjustable ankle straps offer a different kind of fit. They allow you to secure the sandal around your ankle, which can help keep your foot in position while walking.
The Butterfly Feet Ellie 11 Sandal in Tan features multiple toe straps and a buckle ankle strap, combining an open summer look with an adjustable fastening.
Toe-loop and crossover designs provide another alternative. The Viabeach Coconut 23 Sandal in Black, for instance, features crossover straps, a toe loop and a buckle ankle strap.
With this type of sandal, pay particular attention to how the toe loop sits. It should feel secure without pulling, pinching or creating pressure between your toes.
The takeaway? Don't choose a sandal based on appearance alone. Think about how securely it needs to fit for the way you intend to wear it.
Comfort Is About More Than a Soft Footbed
When shopping for summer sandals, it's tempting to focus entirely on cushioning.
While underfoot comfort matters, there's more to consider.
A sandal should also have a sole that feels stable when you walk. Look at the thickness, flexibility and grip of the outsole, particularly if you expect to spend long periods on your feet.
Very thin soles may offer less cushioning on hard surfaces, while excessively flexible designs may not provide the stability you need for extended walking.
For everyday use, consider how the sandal moves with your foot and whether the sole provides enough traction for your usual environment.
There's also the question of upper materials. Different materials can feel very different against your skin, particularly during warmer weather.
Check the product description, examine the strap placement and think about where the sandal might create friction.
A comfortable fit shouldn't require you to ignore obvious pressure points and hope they'll disappear after several wears.
How to Choose Your Sandal Size When Shopping Online
Shopping online gives you access to a much wider selection of colours, brands and styles. The challenge is choosing the correct fit without trying the shoes on first.
Here's a simple approach worth following:
- Start with your usual size, but check the guide. Sizing can vary between brands and designs. If you're uncertain about UK, EU or South African sizing, refer to our South African Shoe Size Guide.
- Consider your foot width. A sandal can be the correct length but still feel too narrow across the front. Look carefully at the shape of the footbed and the positioning of the straps.
- Examine the product photographs. Side views and close-ups can reveal useful details about the sole, straps, buckles and overall construction.
- Choose fastenings that suit your needs. If your feet are difficult to fit, adjustable straps may give you more flexibility than a fixed slip-on design.
- Test the fit properly when your sandals arrive. Try them indoors on a clean surface. Stand, walk and turn naturally. Your foot should remain comfortably positioned without pinching, rubbing or excessive movement.
If one foot is slightly larger than the other, make sure the fit accommodates the larger foot without leaving the smaller foot excessively loose.
Most importantly, don't assume that going up a size will automatically solve a width problem. A longer sandal isn't necessarily a wider or better-fitting one.
Choose Sandals for the Day You're Actually Planning
The sandals you wear for a quick coffee run might not be the ones you'd choose for a full afternoon exploring a market or walking around a shopping centre.
For relaxed occasions, a simple slide can be an effortless addition to linen trousers, denim or a casual summer dress.
For days involving more walking, it's worth prioritising secure straps, stability and a sole that feels comfortable over longer periods.
And when you're dressing for lunch, an event or an evening out, a refined sandal can still deliver a polished look without sacrificing the importance of a proper fit.
There's no single sandal that suits every occasion. The best summer footwear collection is one that gives you options for the different parts of your life.
Explore the different silhouettes available in our ladies' sandals and flip-flops collection, from easy everyday flats to more detailed strappy styles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sandal Fit
Should my toes reach the end of my sandals?
Your toes should sit comfortably within the footbed rather than hanging over the front edge. A little space is useful, but excessive length can make the sandal feel loose.
Should I size up when buying sandals?
Not automatically. Start with the relevant size guide and consider both the length and width of your foot. If a sandal feels narrow, choosing a different shape or a design with adjustable straps may be more effective than simply increasing the size.
Are slide sandals suitable for walking all day?
It depends on the design and your individual needs. For extended walking, secure fastenings, appropriate cushioning and a stable sole generally deserve more attention than convenience alone.
Should new sandals feel tight at first?
New footwear may feel unfamiliar, but it shouldn't be painfully tight. Persistent pinching, pressure or rubbing are signs that the fit or design might not be right for your foot.
Find Your Summer Fit at DC.ONE
Great summer style starts with footwear that works for you.
Whether you're drawn to minimal slides, polished strappy sandals or easy everyday flats, taking a little extra time to check the fit can help you find a pair you'll genuinely enjoy wearing.
Discover your next summer favourite in the DC.ONE sandals collection, featuring styles from Butterfly Feet, Miss Black, Viabeach and more.
Find your fit. Own your summer.