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Apr 13, 2023

28 Best Summer Shoes That'll Last For Years

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

No more tattered sandals and fraying sneakers that fall apart by September.

BuzzFeed Staff

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

Many reviewers recommend sizing up!

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Promising reviews: "I wear these literally EVERY DAY — those shoes you slip on to dash out the door. If I could live in flip-flops, I would, and these Reefs are the best. Durable, with a slight arch support. I've tried to walk a day in those super flat, super minimal flip-flops, and cannot do it. Reefs have a good cushion, and will last an entire summer or more (depending on how much you wear them, of course). These are my daily, reliable shoe in the summer." —Graciebird

"I've been wearing Reef flip-flops for over 20 years living near the beach (and it's totally a Florida thing.) They last forever and I love the way they cushion and conform to my feet!!! They also offer you another inch in height so I feel taller and more confident. I LOVE THESE NEW STYLE REEFS!!!!!! Please don't stop making them like this!!! With the black foam sole, as usual my feet tend to get a little blackish/dirty looking around my heels if I haven't exfoliated in a while, but when I'm exfoliating my feet in the shower daily the pigment washes right off. Totally worth the money and so feminine!" —B Bowles

Get them from Amazon for $27.44+ (available in sizes 5–12 and eight colors).

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Promising review: "These are my favorite. As a Southern Californian, I wear flip-flops year-round. The last pair of Sanuk yoga mat flip-flops I bought lasted through almost three years of constant wear (they were basically the only shoes I wore for three years, so I'm serious when I say constant). They're comfortable enough to wear for a day at Disneyland, even with arthritic joints." —beth

Get them from Amazon for $19.81+ (available in sizes 5–11, including some wide sizes, and in 22 styles).

They're also machine-washable, so even if they get accidentally dirty when you're out ~on an adventure~, you can easily clean them up again. If you're a half-size, several reviewers recommend ordering up (so a 9 if you're an 8.5, etc.).

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Promising reviews: "Had the same exact pair for like seven years now and decided it was time for a new pair. Nothing was wrong with my old pair; they had just flattened out a lot. I was worried that the new ones wouldn't be as nice as my old and that they may have changed them, but they are the exact same. So comfy and I love that they have the strap on the back to keep them on." —Blair

"After owning another pair of Sanuks for a few years now and wearing them almost daily with no problems, I finally decided to get another pair! For someone who's gotten more blisters from flip-flops than stars in the sky, I was very pleased to find that this fabric is soft (sooo soft!) and stretchy enough that you will NOT get blisters or sore feet even after long walks. The soles of the shoes have a generous amount of padding and the underside of the shoes do not scuff up or break down very easily. The elastic is quite strong and will not wear down quickly (the elasticity on my old ones still feel like new!)." —Steph

Get them from Amazon for $26.86+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in five colors/patterns).

Many reviewers suggest sizing down in these, though some recommend ordering your usual size in Dr. Martens if you know that.

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Promising reviews: "After I purchased these, they NEVER rubbed my heel or gave me blisters except once (I had been walking around downtown for an hour and it had been 90+ degrees and I was very sweaty). Otherwise, I wore these mostly every day over the summer for work and everyday wear. They still look great. Can't wait to bust them out of the closet again." —Rochelle

"Make sure you size down! I cannot stress this enough! Outside of that, they're perfect. I love the added lift for when I'm walking around and that I get a little bit of my punk aesthetic all summer long without having to wear my boots. Most certainly worth it!" —Brennan Rairdan

Get them from Amazon for $71.99+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 10 styles). Check out the Dr. Martens store on Amazon for more styles!

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Several of my BuzzFeed Shopping colleagues *swear* by their Birks — you can read their thoughts here (#1) and here (#3).

Promising review: "Been buying the Birkenstock Arizona for the last decade, and I’ll never buy anything else. Walked many miles in a day all over Europe, and I never got a single blister. I’ll wear a pair almost every day throughout a summer, and I need to replace my pair every 3-4 years." —Julie Bosworth

Get them from Amazon for $89.95+ (available in women's sizes 4–19.5 and men's sizes 2–17.5, including narrow sizes, and in dozens of styles — not all styles available in all sizes).

You can wear these water-friendly shoes without socks on warmer days!

I have these in the adorable chameleon pink shade, and though I don't frequent beaches or water parks too often, I wear them around NYC all the time on rainy days. I love that I can skip socks and wear these comfortably while out and about — they allow for a really nice breeze on your feet and dry quickly!

Promising reviews: "I love my two pairs of Native shoes! Using them instead of boots when it rains and it's perfect." —Pascale B.

"I own four pairs of these shoes and I wear them ALL year round! Super comfy and great quality! My first white pair is five years old and you'd never know. Easy to clean and they look brand new! Will buy another pair for sure!" —Carrie R.

Get them from Amazon for $25.85+ or from Native Shoes for $55 (available in women's sizes 5–15 and men's sizes 3–13, and up to 17 colors).

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Promising reviews: "These are so comfortable and last a long time! The strap doesn't rub on the back of my heel like some other shoes with straps do." —Amazon Customer

"If you are looking for a shoe that is cute and comfortable, look no further! This shoe is everything! I wore this shoe all day long walking through the streets of Paris and Florence. And when I say walk, I mean walk...some days up to 10 miles. I brought three other pairs of shoes and ended up wearing these pretty much every day. The platform heel was just the right height, and the sole was almost like memory foam and seemed to absorb the pressure from all the standing and walking." —Jay

Get them from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 18 styles).

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Promising review: "These Tevas have the same wonderful qualities I have grown to expect from ALL Teva shoes. They are easy to put on and take off and I wear them every day to walk my dog in the summer for two miles per day. Believe me, they are comfy. You can adjust the strap on top and behind your heel, so if something doesn't feel right, you just keep adjusting. My last pair of Tevas lasted EIGHT YEARS!!!! I was sad to see them go, but ordered the same style again and just put them IMMEDIATELY on and walked my dog. NO breaking in!!" —NJ Reader

Get them from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes 5–14 and 36 styles). You can find a version available in men's sizes here.

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Promising review: "I love these sandals! I have another pair I have had for four years and wanted a second pair to alternate between during our trip to Disney World. These were comfy and the quality was great. I walked about 20,000 steps a day during our trip and my feet never hurt. I will be ordering more colors! The pair I have had for four years has been worn to the lake, beach, to do yard work and still look new and have held up great. I love Chacos!" —ACarr

Get them from Amazon for $45.40+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 18 styles).

Many reviewers suggest sizing down as these have a bit of an oversized fit.

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Promising reviews: "I have had these rain boots for over two years. They look just as good today as they did when I purchased them. They have a removable insert that I wash when needed. After having them on and walking all day, they hurt a bit, but any shoe or boot would be the same for me. I love how they look, a lot classier than the humdrum rain boot. They do run a little different in sizing than regular footwear but I purchased according to the company's suggestion and it was perfect." —Karen Watts

"For the price, these are a very solid pair of rain boots. They have a comfortable insole insert that adds a layer of cushion. I've trekked through a few puddles in these bad boys without even the threat of a leak. Unlike taller rain boots, they don't make my feet hot in the muggy Southern summer weather." —A.L.I.

Get them from Amazon for $30.90+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 13 styles).

Promising review: "I used to buy a knockoff pair of these shoes, but they barely lasted for one season. I can already tell that these sandals are made to last! I ordered the brandy color and absolutely love this gorgeous, rich brown! I know that I will wear these all summer! They fit true to size in my experience." —Lauren M.

Get them from Nisolo for $138 (available in sizes 5–11 and in five colors).

The seller recommends ordering your true size if you're a whole size, and sizing down if you're a half-size, and most reviewers agree that's the way to go!

Macarena Collection is a small business based in Buena Park, California, that focuses on a wide variety of huarache shoe styles plus hand-embroidered Mexican clothes and accessories.

Promising reviews: "Beautiful authentic huaraches! I had a pair years ago and they are the only shoes I've ever worn out! They are snug — I wear a 7.5 and ordered a 7, and they are loosening up as I type! Will definitely buy from them again. Seller even included a cute little leather flip-flop keychain. So adorable! Highly recommend." —Cheryl

"I love these shoes; this is my second pair from this shop. They come tight but then stretch to accommodate your feet and fit very well after breaking in. And they’re so cute! Love them." —Bridget Handrahan

Get them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $49.59 (originally $61.99; available in sizes 5–10 and one color, although their store page has more color and style options).

Its shoelaces are even made from recycled plastic bottles! Designed with lightweight eucalyptus fibers made to keep you cool in warmer weather, these runners can be tossed in the wash and set out to air dry without losing their shape.

Promising review: "I love these shoes! They are perfect for the summer months because they breathe and are great for walking. They look cute with dresses too so I have been wearing them everywhere!" —Margaret L.

Get them from Allbirds for $105 (available in sizes 5–11 and 14 styles).

They're vegan shoes and primarily plastic-free (the fabric and thread, including the tassels and embroidery, are 100% recycled). The only plastic is in the sole, and it's 10–12% recycled ocean plastic.

Solana is a small business based in Richmond, Virginia!

Promising reviews: "Fantastic mules! They are so comfy, stylish, and durable. I wear them during summer and they go perfectly with jeans. cute dresses, shorts, and trousers. I expect that they will be around for a long time." —Jana M.

"Finally got my hands on a pair of shoes that's A) sustainable, B) comfortable, and C) stylish. You can see the quality in these threads from the moment you open the box. These are not your typical one-season espadrilles; I'll be wearing these year after year." —Susan H.

Get them from Solana for $260 (available in sizes 6–11).

These have the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, which is granted to products found to promote good foot health!

Promising review: "Aerothotic is my new go-to brand!!!! I love flip-flops — practically live in them now that I have a new baby. I’ve been wearing this brand for years. My old pair is approximately four years old and the straps are beginning to fray, so I bought a new pair, but the wild thing is that even though the straps are fraying, the shoe itself is still in perfect condition!!!!!! I’ve never had shoes this cheap last so long!!!! Worth every penny!!!!" —Chad Shugarman

Get them from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and 36 colors).

They also have the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so you know they're legit!

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Promising reviews: "These are the BEST comfortable flip-flops that don't look orthopedic. The concrete slab under our house makes my legs hurt because I’m a heavy walks and I’m on my feet a lot cooking and cleaning. These are so supportive and comfy that I even walk the dog a mile or more in them when I don't have my walking shoes nearby. I didn't want to spend the money, but I’ve had a pair last 4+ years and I only replaced them because they were looking scuffed, not because they weren't still comfortable!" —M. Lamarche

Get them from Amazon for $20.11+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 28 colors).

You can wear these year-round, but they're light enough for summer hikes.

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Promising review: "Love these boots so comfortable! I’ve worn them on several hikes, and doing yard work. A must-have if you have issues with long-wear comfort. I know these boots will last a long time. The reason I had to get a new pair is that my old ones were over 15 years old, but still held up." —Kim

Get them from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and in 14 colors). You can find a similar men's version here.

These boots generally fit true to size, but if you plan on wearing thicker socks or if you're between sizes, it's recommended to size up.

Thesus is a mission-driven, Ontario, Canada-based small biz creating outdoor footwear that's easy on the planet, the eyes, and your feet! These boots are made with over 95% natural and recycled materials.

Promising review: "I absolutely love these boots! They have a very nice padding in the sole, which makes it comfortable to wear for long periods of time and these shoes definitely fit very true to size. I love how everything about the boots is sustainable, from the tread to the shoelaces. They fit with absolutely everything, and I have gotten many compliments. I also got the red shoelaces and they look amazing on the sage boots. Just by looking at them, you can tell that they are very well made and will be very long-lasting. The packaging was great; I loved the little notecards, which really showed that customers are appreciated. All in all, these boots are great for you and the planet. :)" —Claire

Get it from Thesus for $198 (available in EU sizes 36–46 and 11 colors).

Promising review: "I've been wearing these shoes for many years now and I've had at least a dozen pairs of just the basic black Chuck Taylors, and each holds up just as well as the one before it. Definitely an amazing workhorse of a shoe, and also timeless and stylish!" —Shawn K.

Get them from Converse for $65 (available in men's sizes 3–18 and women's sizes 5–20, in standard or wide widths, in 12 colors, and with customization). You can get the fruits and florals print for $80 and check out other styles here.

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Promising review: "I bought the Adrenaline GTS 21 for my mom. She had two pairs of Adrenaline GTS 18, and they wore out after YEARS of daily walking. She wears size 10 in Brooks, so I bought her a size 10 in Adrenaline GTS 21 and she is very happy with them! She tried many other Brooks running shoes, but the Adrenaline GTS is her favorite because it is substantial (very good support, comfortable) and does not wear out quickly." —LT

Get them from Amazon for $80.52+ (available in sizes 5–13, including narrow and wide sizes, and in 22 colors). You can find a version available in men's sizes here.

Most reviewers suggest sizing up, especially if you're between sizes, so they're not too tight. They're comfortable enough to wear without socks even in the summer!

Promising reviews: "Sloggers are awesome! This is my second pair and the first pair lasted 12 years before the heel wore out and believe me, they had tons of work miles on them. They are waterproof, fit true to size, and mud sprays right off them with the hose. Great for dirty yard work and easy yard work. They have many styles/designs and are cute. They are made in the USA, which I love. Can't recommend enough." —Blondie

"When it's muddy, I need waterproof, and so far they seem perfectly waterproof. I even walked across a little creek in them. The inside of the shoe is made of something soft that doesn't stick to my feet, which means in the summer I can wear them without socks. And they come up a little bit on the foot, so that they are protection from that accidental step-on by a sheep or goat hoof." —Amazon Customer

Get them from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and 27 prints).

Bangs Shoes is a mission-driven small biz that creates ethically made, high-quality canvas sneakers for your daily adventures. Their embroidered sneaks are super cute and every purchase helps to fund loans that invest in entrepreneurs around the globe.

Promising review: "OMG I can't express how much I love these shoes enough. I’ve gotten so many compliments on them. I’ve had them for two years and they are still in almost brand-new condition even after wearing them so much. I love that I can wear these shoes with a free conscience since they are vegan and the profit is being used to invest in small businesses for women and POC (and more people obviously!). THANK YOU BANGS FOR MAKING SUCH AMAZING SHOES. Planning on buying the Universe ones for college!" —Gena

Get them from Bangs Shoes for $79 (available in women's sizes 5–11.5 and men's sizes 3.5–10). Psst — they have a bunch of other cute styles worth checking out too!

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BuzzFeed Shopping contributor Rachel Dunkel says, "The level of comfort in every Dansko shoe is nearly incomprehensible. The insole is somewhat hard, but in a remarkably good way that almost massages the arches of my feet when I walk. It's a unique feeling that requires a little getting used to, but once I did, holy moly, it was an eye-opening experience of what shoes can be. I know that sounds dramatic, but I'm not alone — the cult-status of Danskos is real and well-deserved. If you've been struggling to find a shoe that fully supports your feet all day, give these a try. They definitely don't look like they'd be the most stable, but I never feel more sure-footed than when I'm in my Danskos. These are my newest Danskos at a year and a half old, but looking at the sole, leather, and sturdy buckle, you know they're just at the beginning of their long life. I've yet to try Dansko's original clogs, but am running out of excuses not to!"

Promising review: "I wore similar Danskos as a practicing midwife for 13 of my 23 years catching babies at a busy urban hospital practice. YES they lasted 13 years!! I was so upset I had to say goodbye to them after they finally crumbled and was DELIGHTED to find these, which I have already started to wear and expect to wear for at least another 13 years!!" —Amazon Customer

Get them from Amazon for $89.95+ (available in sizes 5.5–12 and three colors).

It's recommended to go half a size up if you have narrow feet and a full size up for wider feet in this particular style! I can back this up — I have a pair of Rothy's flats and though I usually wear an 8, I went with an 8.5 and they fit perfectly. Though I haven't had the chance to wear them a *ton* (because I WFH most days), I have commuted in them several times with no issues. They're super comfy and feel so lightweight and stretchy! I have them in the neutral Ecru color, but they come in a ton of gorgeous colors — if I were going into the office regularly, I'd be tempted to grab them in multiple shades. Psst — check out my colleagues' full Rothy's flats review for more deets!

Promising review: "I love these shoes, and will slowly build up a wardrobe of them. Right now I have black and navy. The black are more than a year old (have been washed more times than I can remember) and are still in great shape, so I feel like they are worth the investment. They are incredibly comfortable. Only real downside: They do make your feet stink after a few (five to 10) wears, but then it's just time to throw them in the wash and all is well. Mainly an issue when I am wearing them day after day in the summer." —Karen W.

Get them from Rothy's for $129 (available in sizes 5–13 and in 34 colors/patterns). Rothy's flats come in a bunch of different styles, and you can check them out here!

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Promising reviews: "Love my new sandals! Great cushioning and arch support, sporty look, and the adjustable strap is great for the Florida humidity that makes your feet swell when you walk a bit. I found them true to size. I'm usually between an 8 and 8.5 (usually the larger size in athletic shoes) and found the 8 in these to fit well. Got lots of compliments on them my first day wearing them! So comfy!" —Maggie

"I have enjoyed this style of Sorel sandals for the last couple of years. They fit my foot perfectly. I love the new colors of the new sandal this year!! Totally my favorite!" —Malynn Beck

Get them from Amazon for $51.97+ (available in sizes 6–11 and in nine colors).

Promising review: "I have worn Rockport deck shoes for decades! If I'm not at the office, a social function, or hiking (or occasionally wearing sandals), these are on my feet. These are my yard, housework, and up-on-the-roof shoes; my slippers; my vacation strollers; my boat shoes; my driving shoes. Solidly made, ruggedly protective, so durable and they mold to me. The only place I haven't worn them (though darn near) is to bed." —Old Fart

Get them from Rockport for $99.99+ (originally $150; available in men's sizes 6–15, four widths, and four colors).

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Promising review: "My second pair of this style. I wore my last pair in several countries, over many years, lots of walking/light-to-moderate hiking, and they held up great. But it was definitely time to replace them. The 8 fits me perfectly, and when worn with no-show socks, I can walk for miles in them. Cute with shorts, jeans, or casual skirts/dresses." —cheddo

Get them from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and six colors).

Birdies is a woman-founded company that originally created a comfortable and stylish slipper that could be worn at home while hosting parties. But they quickly realized the shoes were too good to *just* be worn inside and created a do-it-all flat, combining the support of a sneaker with the softness of a slipper.

Promising reviews: "So soft and comfortable, easy to slip on and off when your body is fragile AND they made me feel like I was still putting on beautiful and real clothes. That matters. After two years of very heavy wear, I just purchased a second pair. Thanks Birdies for an amazing product. —Mary N.

"The Starling has always been my favorite go-to birdies style and the Lipstick color is absolutely lovely and perfect for spring and summer." —Erin P.

Get them from Birdies for $65+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 28 styles).

Note: Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.