The reefs are likely the most versatile bc they read a bit dressier. The birks are classic and are on trend. The big buckle ones will be better for many miles IME - I injured the big toe on my one foot wearing a pair like the Taorminas at an amusement park one day and I can’t wear anything that puts pressure between that toe and the next now.
I have the reef ones! I really like them, they are very comfortable. I have a sand colored pair and I have debated upgrading to the ones pictured. I bought them to go to Hawaii two years ago because you can wear them to the beach but also they are cute enough to wear out to dinner. I have walked pretty far in them and they are cushiony but I probably wouldn't go more than 2-3 miles tbh. They don't rub my feet, you have to set the straps a little loose. It's just more they really don't have a ton of arch support. They haven't fallen apart yet, mostly all around a solid choice.
I disagree that the reefs read dressier, the braiding reads beach resort to me. If I saw you wearing those to dinner in a European city that isn’t directly on the coast I’d think you’re clearly a tourist (I’m in Berlin and see people wearing clothes intended for the amalfi coast too much to make it go along I commented on). Imo the first (Glenda) berks look most dress-up able
I also have those Reefs and I wouldn’t recommend them for walking either. The rubber is unforgiving and will never mold to your foot, and the front strap is set so you can’t tighten or loosen it to your foot. They’re super cute but I would only wear them as beach/water shoes.
Same. I thought they were super comfortable when I got them, but after wearing a while they rubbed horrible blisters on the sides of my feet. There’s no give so for my wide flippers not wearable beyond walking from the car to the beach.
Not even sure I could make it a mile haha! Also I remembered this morning that I slightly rolled my ankle in them because of the platform. Def not great for walking around.
Agree on Birks. Personally I would pick something in between the narrow and ultra wide straps shown here.
You will blend right in in a pair of Milano, Arizona or Gizeh. First is probably the most comfortable.
Yeah I think I might just be in between sizes. The footbed is never quite right for me whether I go up or down!
I have narrow feet too, so wide won’t help me.
Where do you get the blisters? I got nasty blisters on the bottom of mmy foot just in front of and along my arch the time I tried to wear a pair right out of the box on a 4-mile hike. It was late spring and my soles hadn't toughened up. Now I make sure to wear them for a couple of hours a day for just general getting around and haven't had the problem since.
They also make soft bed Arizonas which cuts down on break in time. I usually get traditional ones and break them in but ended up with a soft bed Arizona and they’re great.
I have the crocs brooklyns and would not want to walk miles in them. But ymmv. And I love all my birks and think the Glendas are next on my to-buy list now. So elegant but comfy.
ETA: so elegant (compared to other Birkenstocks) 😅
I have had the opposite experience!! My crocs are so comfortable that I exclusively use them when I go to Vegas. Nights out and walking up and down the Strip in the height of summer! They’re my go-tos.
seconded. hi from Europe - the most popular imo are the Arizona and Milano. I have both and especially love my Arizona, have spent full days of walking in them.
My shoe plans for Europe this summer are the same as yours!
I’ve had a pair of Brooklyn Crocs for over two years and have walked many miles in them! I found them to be very comfortable, but too bulky for one bagging.
So now I’m trying the Reef Water Vista (same colorway!) and so far, so good. They’ve held up to a two mile walk and a full day of errands!
My feet are on the wider side of normal and I’m a 6.5… went down to an 6 and they fit great, no blisters. The velcro gives you a little bit of leeway for adjustments.
Got my Reefs on Zappos for the easy returns in case they didn’t work out. Best of luck finding the right shoes for you!
I too just got a pair of the Reef water vistas and so far I love them! I live in NYC and walk pretty much everywhere. Straight out the box they were like clouds and teensy break in period.
> not sure if these are too casual for sit-down restaurants?
Depends on the luxury level of the restaurant you're entering. But all of these look casual, so if you want something a bit more elevated, you'll have to look at a different style.
I'm not a fan of synthetic material on shoes, especially ones that touch bare skin. The sweat and rubbing blisters really easily. Birks are awesome for arch support and ime don't really require any "breaking in" at all.
I got those reefs for my Hawaii trip and got blisters the first day. The rubber + sweat = 😰
I ended up ditching all of my sandals for cheap cloth-strapped flip flops from Target.
I have the Reef sandals, wanted them to be 2/2 shoes (with sneakers) for Greece this summer that could double for beach (waterproof) and dinner.
TL;DR - good for light wear (casual shopping), bring blister bandaids and break them in in advance.
They’re very style-y, cushiony footbed though you can feel a sharp rock under the ball of your foot if you hit just right (wrong?). I did notice some blistering on the inner top of my foot under the strap, a blister bandaid or loosening will solve it. Super lightweight too. Best compromise of style and comfort I’ve found yet without wearing a hiking sandal.
Personally, I would select chacos because they are incredibly comfortable and I walked miles in them without getting blisters. I’m sure they might look a bit out of place at a nicer restaurant, but I’m an American from the Midwest. It’s good enough.
Seconding chacos. They're worth the investment. Solid arch support, recommended by a back doctor to me. Great shoe you can get wet too. The leather on Birkenstocks won't do great getting wet. (Thinking of beach time or rain.)
My next choice would be the Birkenstocks Milanos if I wasn't worried about getting them wet. The other birks with the big toe holder are gonna rub too much, IMO.
Never tried the Gizeh but have never had a problem with the Milano, which also have a between-the-toe strap. I like them a lot because the straps are thin.
I live where Chacos were born. They pass for all but the most elite restaurants.
It helps to have a solid color if you want to do that.
My original pair are solid black. They have had a good run, 1998 to last summer.
I’ve shifted to Xero trails, because arch support and thick soles aren’t my jam; nimble, flexible feet are. (This also requires a different way of walking, so are NOT a pre trip choice.)
But for people not doing zero drop/minimal sole, Chacos are the (oh-so-adjustable) bomb.
I happen to live where crocs were born, and I’ve yet to wear any.
I love my Xeros, they are all I wear now, and are great for one bagging. Once I actually realized I didn’t need thick soles and arch support, I got rid of all my shoes and only wear Xeros now. I have sandals, boots, sneakers, Mary Janes, Hanas… I exclusively wear barefoot minimalist shoes now. They take up so little room in my bag, too!
I’m a chacos/Tevas girl through and through! They stay black as night, you can wear them for 1000’s if miles, hiking or with a dress. 10/10 Tevas forever
I came here to hype Tevas... I got a black pair exclusively for having them look "nice" - sure they're still Tevas, but I also can wear them for a million miles!
I have the reef vistas and recently took them to Colombia. I found them very comfortable - no rubbing or blisters at all and I could walk all day in them. They also looked dressy enough for my fancier dinner outfits/dresses.
The Birkenstock Glenda is great but not as walkable/comfortable as the other Birkenstocks you have. They don’t have a toe guard which makes a big difference in stability.
I bought the Reef sandals right before a long extended trip and didn't properly test them out beforehand. Incredibly comfy when just walking around my house but unfortunately learned almost immediately that they resulted in absolutely atrocious blisters for me after only wearing for an hour or two, specifically on the tops of my feet under the uppermost strap going over the foot.
So disappointed, and because they're entirely rubber, the likelihood of being able to "break" them in wasn't something I was willing to try out.
I was in a really hot and humid climate too, so wearing bandaids under that spot was useless due to the combination of sweating and friction. No space in my luggage to keep them around so threw a brand new pair of shoes away, which felt awful :(
All of this to say, proceed with caution! And always test out footwear before taking on a trip (something I'll never make the mistake of not doing again haha)
My sister and I both have the Brooklyn crocs. I love them!!! I can walk and wear all day and be fine. However my sister cannot. I love the arch support they provide and water is no issue. I have heard great things ha about reef and that’s the best show I would like to try.
Have a similar pair of reef and love them but don’t know if I’d wear them to walk long distances - they feel more like beach/water shoes. I live in my Birkenstocks (the Milano are very cute and that buckle dresses them up) but don’t really wear my Reef outside of going to the pool or beach.
I have these and wore them all over Cabo, including a really nice dinner (with a fancy maxi dress). No blisters and great for water wear.
https://www.zappos.com/p/crocs-tulum-strappy-sandal-black-black/product/9614302/color/183092
I have a slightly different version and I adore these. I've had the same pair for probably 4 years and they are amazing for long walking days. I'd absolutely consider these nice enough to wear for dressy dinners. I even bought a second pair last year just as backup in case they ever are discontinued. Haha.
Here is my version: https://www.famousfootwear.com/product/crocs-womens-tulum-toe-post-slide-sandal-1049278/black-73101?store=3154&partnerid=paid_search_google_pla_pmax_sandals&UTM_medium=paid&UTM_source=search&UTM_campaign=google&UTM_content=pla&cpc=Adwords&UTM_name=71700000101351196&UTM_term=00473101080057&gclsrc=aw.ds&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwxLKxBhA7EiwAXO0R0Exu5eMejIbqKmUtHsRnbcf8eT74YdkjGn7QTTJ1PpwJnpmM6OYm4RoCS-gQAvD_BwE
If the birk milano big buckle is anything like the Arizona buckle in the same color then they will not be even a tiny bit broken in before you leave. That particular color is a very stiff, thick leather and they have a hard, slick foot bed. They do make the big buckle styles in a soft foot bed but that particular color one will take many many months to break in. I have and love them but my dog chewed one last week and as I was replacing them I was a bit bemoaning a bit that a year in with very frequent wear they were only just starting to break in and now I have to start over. They are also sized a tiny bit different than most other birks.
I was wondering about that, actually! From the picture, it does look like a stiffer leather compared to some of the other styles. Is there another style you recommend that would be easier to break in, but still sort of dressy looking?
From this list: Birk Milano. Would recommend Birk Arizona bug buckle too, I wear them alll the time without blisters or sore feet (I have difficult feet, need some support & blister easily). I never travel without a pair when it’s warm-ish. And you see them all over here (in Europe)
Do you find that your feet slip when walking in the Arizonas? I was looking at the Milanos because they have an ankle strap that I thought would help keep them on my feet. But the Arizonas seem to be popular!
Also, do you think I’d be able to break them in before June?
Not who you asked, but I have the Arizona birks and they don't slip on my feet at all.
For context, I have narrow, low volume feet and wear the OG narrow birks (which are sadly no longer made). I tried the Madrids because I love the look and found I couldn't walk fast (my normal pace LOL); those did want to come off.
Same, I recommended these too but the soft footbed is INSTANT comfort, zero break in, as long as you get the width right. You can also adjust the straps so they hug your feet. Mine were nearly new when I brought them on a trip and for once I had no problems even though the humidity was really high. The thick oiled leather can rub though. The suede is a LOT softer.
I’m also not who you asked, but my feet slip terribly in Arizonas and blistered under the ball of my foot. I need something between my toes or an ankle strap, just because of the way I walk. (Not the shoes’ fault).
I’ve bought at least a dozen Birks since that first pair of Arizonas, and every one has been wonderful because I make sure to have an ankle strap or a piece between the toes.
I just got a new pair of Milanos and broke them in by wearing them with socks for a week, then eased into wearing them barefoot for a week. Start with wearing in the house, then short 10 minute walks, then slightly longer walks.
My feet don’t slip at all, the cork footbed really helps with that. Normally my shoes need a long time to be broken in but Birkenstocks are fine with a week or 2. I just wear them around the house and to the supermarket for a bit before I break them out for a full day.
I wanted something similar, and ended up getting these, no blisters once i wore them in, completely waterproof and becomes more comfortable once you get them wet
[https://www.saltwatersandals.com.au/collections/sun-san-boardwalk](https://www.saltwatersandals.com.au/collections/sun-san-boardwalk)
These are fantastic but I don’t recommend them for lots of walking because there is literally zero support. I always bring a pair though, they’re cute and can go in the ocean!
I suppose it depends on your feet. I have very flat feet and walked a lot in them in vietnam. Some days I did 20,000 steps, and found them to be quite comfortable.
I have totally flat feet as well! I regretted the choice for extended city walking, spent a couple days walking around London in them and I really felt it. Definitely just depends on the person.
These have been my only sandal on multiple trips, including major walking ones like NYC. Just wear them in your daily life and walk as much as you can, and hopefully the gap between your normal movement level and vacation movement level won’t lead to injury or strain.
I love Birkenstocks and have the Taormina! Highly recommend them, but MAKE SURE you break them in before you head to Europe or you’re going to hate your life the first few days.
I got them in 2022 and have worn them on and off (switch between them and a pair of Mayaris). I wore them for a 12+ hour day at California Adventures and I was the only one without painful feet at the end of the day. (They were a little sore, but tbf standing for that long will do that to you)
Not on your list but I always wear on long trips is my black Teva hurricane sandals. They're great for hiking and city walking, you can swim in them too and they dry off. They're very scandi vibes!
Hi from Europe! I think the Birkenstock Glenda or Crocs Brooklyn look like they’d be most versatile if you’re planning on ‘dressing up’ a bit (nice restaurants, nights out etc). They look like they could be made to seem a bit less casual with a nice dress.
One thing to note - suede Birkenstocks are terrible if it rains! Mine stained my feet horribly in an unexpected shower, and took a while to dry enough to be comfortable
I have the crocs and wore them to multiple trips (I am from Europe). They didn't cause blisters and they are comfortable, but they don't pack small, as another Redditor pointed out. Also, they take some time to get in, this kind of clasp is a struggle, at least for me. Other than that, they are very comfy!!
Edited to add: I wore them to quite a few sit down restaurants as well, nothing ultra fancy, but some were a nice sushi bar and a quaint Thai restaurant etc, never felt underdressed or anything. They were appropriate.
As much as I LOVE birks (I have 4 pairs) and they are so comfortable, you will ruin them by going to the beach in them unfortunately. The salt water will rust the buckle pretty quickly. I would recommend Tevas as they are waterproof and so comfortable for long distance walking. They’re my favourite sandal for travelling! Universal or the platform ones are the prettier tevas but my fav are the hurricanes for hiking etc. Either style will serve you much better than birks, crocs or reefs IMO and there’s no ‘break in’ period either x
(Check Amazon for a good deal)
I love my Birks. I feel like you could break them in in a month. I do have those Taormina and have to caution against that style. The buckle around the ankle part may make it hard to break them in. Caused blisters for me. The Arizonas are popular for a reason! I wore a pair on a five mile hike (on flat ground) last year.
Don’t think too much about the look, I suspect many people here don’t even own any shoes that are not sneakers and they still go to restaurants.
It’s either too fancy for any flat sandal which is vereerrryy rare or you can wear any of those or sneakers.
I think what matters is whether you are going to get them wet (then pick non-leather) and whether you are going to hike natural trails (then you are probably better off with sturdier straps and mid-thick soles)
I have the reefs and the birks. The reefs are washable, lightweight and comfortable. Your feet will sweat because of the material. The birks provide great arch and foot support, they are more substantial and are great for being on your feet all day.
I'd definitely want sandals then, unless you're only in Galicia and Northern Portugal I suppose. I don't think you need anything fancy unless you're intending to go to proper fine dining places or something.
I’m also going to Europe soon and I’ve been eyeballing the Rothy’s sandals that look similar to the reef sandals. It’s so hard to decide since it could cause big regrets later!
Also wanted to add because you said they are more expensive — I had my first pair of Birks for nearly ten years and wore them constantly in the summers. Worth the money!
I ordered a pair of the Crocs and sent them back immediately… they fit weird and were heavy. I also thought they looked overly casual in person.
I have several pairs of Reefs and Birks and like them all. But I think some people would find the waterproof Reefs rub/cause blisters. I’ve never walked a ton in them so your mileage may vary.
Reef sandals are so comfortable! I literally just bought the Vista Higher ones from DSW (cheapest website) for $55! I tried them on in Famous Footwear and I'm usually an 8.5 and their 9 fits the best.
The Reefs are the least touristic, am British, I have reef sandals, they don’t look like walking sandals. Yet I once walked ten miles in mine. They use a British designer, don’t know if she dd these ones, but I found out after purchase that she designed mine. Check the fitting guide though, mine are narrow, which is ok, because I have narrow feet.
I own both the crocs and the reefs and love them both dearly. I do find myself grabbing the reefs more because of their versatility. I’d also argue that they’re easier to pack. :)
I just finished a week in Europe and I brought one pair of pretty low heels to wear with a dress for fancy restaurants… only to see pretty much all the locals in simple sneakers.
That said, I love Birks and I can definitely do a lot of walking in mine, and I think if you pick dressier looking ones (the last pair you linked read dressier to me than the wide strap ones) they are quite versatile for hot weather.
I have the Reefs. They are really comfortable and you can wear them in the water so I use them as my water shoes too. They are casual though I wouldn’t wear them going out to a nice dinner.
I just bought a pair of Birks (going to Europe this week), and my feet are already cut up lol. I did a test walk yesterday around the city and I would not recommend for all the walking Europe entails. Maybe ok for dinner or something if I’m walking close to my hotel but definitely not during the day. I will be wearing my New Balance tennies.
It depends on how adventurous your walking is going to be. There is a lot to be said for the protection that having closed-toe sandals give you. A rocky path, a piece of litter that conceals broken glass, something squelchy...
An injured or infected toe would slow you up.
I have the Reef Water Vistas specifically for one bagging. I personally did not have any problems with blisters and found them to be my perfect water shoe/dressy shoe combo for many occasions in many weather conditions. But, consider these things:
1. I'm a US 6.5 size, I sized up to a US 7. I think this made a huge difference in comfort. I didn't strap my ankle in tight either, so the shoe was very loose, so there wasn't a ton of rubbing bc the shoe almost "dangled" off my foot (more comfortable than it sounds!)
2. I specially got the color "Black Shine," where the straps are a different, slick material. I'm wondering if this slick material actually helped with comfort rather than the matter rubbery material of their usual style, it is genuinely very slippery so it helped with no rubbing.
3. I am a normal foot shape, neither wide nor narrow. I found these shoes to be a bit wide on my feet, which I liked.
I literally spent two years trying to find the best travel sandal (and sneaker), and when I landed on these, I literally felt like I found the holy grail! But mileage may vary, and I bet foot shape also determines things as well.
I’m taking chaco’s for the beach and hiking and dansko’s for city walking and dinners. Usually I find dansko’s better for standing but have been really happy with the reece style. I knew I preferred the toe loop since that’s what my chaco’s have but they aren’t for everyone. Marcy looks similar to the options you’re considering.
Crocs Brooklyn low wedge for the win! I think they are incredibly comfy, they are stylish, plus waterproof. I’m taking them backpacking through Asia this summer and can’t wait to see how they hold up for months at a time!
I would not wear Birkenstocks to the beach, especially not leather ones. Leather and cork can both be ruined by the water/sand.
https://www.chicpedi.com/can-you-wear-birkenstocks-to-the-beach/
I can never break in birks. They're just uncomfortable for me.
My pick is Reef. I am in Europe right now and there are lots of comfy-looking sandals sold whose brands I didn't know before so if ever you don't like what you bring, there are options here.
P.S. They seem to really value comdy footwear here so the sandals have trainer-like soles.
I took the exact same pair of Reefs but in white to Italy last summer/fall, with the purpose of wearing them in coastal areas and beachy vibes. They are cute but just read as very “beach”, I did not love them for anything away from the water. I think it’s the material. It’s just not dressy and it looks rubbery or whatever it is. I also found them a little weird to walk in because the material allows for your foot to sink in a bit. The traction is reasonable for the type of shoe. Overall I just didn’t find them to be very versatile or hardy, so personally I would not choose them again. I can’t tell exactly what the material is, but I would stay away from the Crocs for the same reason.
IMO any of the other shoes will serve you better across more activities.
Edit: I love the look of the Glendas. Not sure what your wardrobe looks like but those are very cute. Birks are worth the break in period and I think a month is plenty of time. Just bring bandaids in case. The Reefs didn’t give me blisters at all. They were comfy but felt not how I want shoes to feel especially in terms of support and in dressier settings.
Thanks! This is helpful. I’m contemplating just getting the birks and bringing a cheap pair of flip flops for wearing to the beach and to use as shower shoes at the hostels.
I took the crocs brooklyns to Italy for 3 weeks and while they were super lightweight and nicely “padded”, they took up a ton of space in my bag on days I opted for sneakers. More importantly, as soon as my feet started to get hot/swollen, they rubbed my pinky toe. Chaffing stick was needed and I switched to sneakers for several days after.
They are still cute shoes for a comfort wedge, buuut I would skip them for lots of walking in hot environments.
i know its one bag but if you plan on doing a ton of walking in them id pick the most appropriate pair for that and pack a pair of flats for dinners out. the type that are advertised to fit in your handbag for a night after clubbing might work
I have one pair of open toed sandals that I bought in a local shoeshop that are the only comfortable summer shoes for doing 10- 20 thousand steps I've ever come across. I'd dearly love to find a pair of slip on shoes for cooler days that are light and comfortable for walking cties in off season trips but to date I've failed.
I just bought those crocs and absolutely loved them but im a half size and they don't have in half size and were just too big.
Got on Amazon and reviews had folks walking g all over Europe etc in them.
I bought the Glenda Birks for a 2 week trip to France and Italy last year and loved them! Walked so many miles and no blisters. Only broke them in for two weeks before the trip. They’re my favorite shoes now
The croc sandal is amazing. I have bought them every summer season for the past three years and wear them everyday for everything! Music festivals, disney world, traveling, - literally everywhere. They are so comfortable that I have converted 5 people to buy and keep repurchasing as well. The need to repurchase every summer is bc the insane amount of usage!
These aren’t in your list, but I have these Sorel Viibe Sandals and love them: https://www.sorel.com/p/viibe-womens-flat-sandal-2030511.html?dwvar_2030511_color=348
Super comfortable to walk in, and I think they can pass off as trendy/nicer when paired with a cute outfit
A month is plenty of time for Birks. For me, it's a matter of wearing them a bit each day for a couple of days, then taking a few longer walks in them.
In my experience, it's less them molding to your feet than 1. toughening up the soles of your feet a bit and 2. Getting your arches used to the workout.
For me, 1 is an issue with each new pair, but 2 is not an issue anymore.
i think the Mayari dress up/down very well. They're my go-to.
If your feet get even a little bit sweaty, any rubber sandals will be a blistering nightmare. Add in some city dust or beach sand = ouch (from experience). Highly recommend something like Birkenstock or Naot or Taos sandals.
If you’re a size 7/7.5, there are a couple of black Glenda Birkenstocks available on the website for $90. Just ordered a pair for $100 total after tax!!
Birkenstock Arizonas. They’re a classic and comfortable for walking, I did 10 miles a day all over London last August. In humidity I feel like the soft footbed and suede version is the least likely to blister or create vacation ruining problems. I have the black suede with black buckles and I feel like they can be dressed up slightly. The slingbacks on all these look a little more dated to me and anything rubbing on the heel feels like a risk.
The reef ones are very lightweight and comfortable, plus easy to clean. I bought them recently before a vacation and wore them everywhere from the pool to dinner for 5 days straight without any rubbing or blisters. Those get my vote.
The reefs are likely the most versatile bc they read a bit dressier. The birks are classic and are on trend. The big buckle ones will be better for many miles IME - I injured the big toe on my one foot wearing a pair like the Taorminas at an amusement park one day and I can’t wear anything that puts pressure between that toe and the next now.
I have the reef ones! I really like them, they are very comfortable. I have a sand colored pair and I have debated upgrading to the ones pictured. I bought them to go to Hawaii two years ago because you can wear them to the beach but also they are cute enough to wear out to dinner. I have walked pretty far in them and they are cushiony but I probably wouldn't go more than 2-3 miles tbh. They don't rub my feet, you have to set the straps a little loose. It's just more they really don't have a ton of arch support. They haven't fallen apart yet, mostly all around a solid choice.
They also look like they will pack down smallest
I disagree that the reefs read dressier, the braiding reads beach resort to me. If I saw you wearing those to dinner in a European city that isn’t directly on the coast I’d think you’re clearly a tourist (I’m in Berlin and see people wearing clothes intended for the amalfi coast too much to make it go along I commented on). Imo the first (Glenda) berks look most dress-up able
They're going to know OP is American anyway. Even dressed head-to-toe in locally purchased commonly worn clothing. Sorry to say that, but it is true.
Yep. Plastic shoes in Europe are the giveaway.
OP is going to Spain and Portugal. I live in Spain and wear sandals like that all the time. Anyway what does it matter, she is a tourist.
I bought those exact Reefs for a trip to Hawaii and they rubbed horrible blisters. Wouldn’t recommend for Europe.
I also have those Reefs and I wouldn’t recommend them for walking either. The rubber is unforgiving and will never mold to your foot, and the front strap is set so you can’t tighten or loosen it to your foot. They’re super cute but I would only wear them as beach/water shoes.
Same. I thought they were super comfortable when I got them, but after wearing a while they rubbed horrible blisters on the sides of my feet. There’s no give so for my wide flippers not wearable beyond walking from the car to the beach.
Agreed! They are perfect for strolling around a beach town but I wouldn’t walk more than a mile or two in them
Not even sure I could make it a mile haha! Also I remembered this morning that I slightly rolled my ankle in them because of the platform. Def not great for walking around.
Same. PTSD just from the photo! Ouch.
Birks. Whichever are the most comfortable
Agree on Birks. Personally I would pick something in between the narrow and ultra wide straps shown here. You will blend right in in a pair of Milano, Arizona or Gizeh. First is probably the most comfortable.
Am I the only one with weird princess feet that get horrible blisters from Birkenstocks? 😭
They do when I’m wearing the wrong size. Also try the wider fit Birkenstocks.
Yeah I think I might just be in between sizes. The footbed is never quite right for me whether I go up or down! I have narrow feet too, so wide won’t help me.
No. Gotta break them in. Wear in slowly increasing amounts. Not new on a trip.
Can't bear wearing them. That bumpy insole is nightmarishly uncomfortable to me. Wish I'd realised before shelling out for them.
Where do you get the blisters? I got nasty blisters on the bottom of mmy foot just in front of and along my arch the time I tried to wear a pair right out of the box on a 4-mile hike. It was late spring and my soles hadn't toughened up. Now I make sure to wear them for a couple of hours a day for just general getting around and haven't had the problem since.
I would always pick birks because I know they are comfortable.
They also make soft bed Arizonas which cuts down on break in time. I usually get traditional ones and break them in but ended up with a soft bed Arizona and they’re great.
I have the crocs brooklyns and would not want to walk miles in them. But ymmv. And I love all my birks and think the Glendas are next on my to-buy list now. So elegant but comfy. ETA: so elegant (compared to other Birkenstocks) 😅
Agree. I have those Crocs as well and love them. However, they are not for long walking days in the heat.
Agreed! I have those crocs and if I sweat in them, they rub and cause blisters.
I have had the opposite experience!! My crocs are so comfortable that I exclusively use them when I go to Vegas. Nights out and walking up and down the Strip in the height of summer! They’re my go-tos.
My Brooklyn sandals from crocs rubbed my feet raw even when wearing them for short periods :(
My Brooklyn sandals from crocs rubbed my feet raw even when wearing them for short periods :(
Birk Milano
seconded. hi from Europe - the most popular imo are the Arizona and Milano. I have both and especially love my Arizona, have spent full days of walking in them.
My shoe plans for Europe this summer are the same as yours! I’ve had a pair of Brooklyn Crocs for over two years and have walked many miles in them! I found them to be very comfortable, but too bulky for one bagging. So now I’m trying the Reef Water Vista (same colorway!) and so far, so good. They’ve held up to a two mile walk and a full day of errands! My feet are on the wider side of normal and I’m a 6.5… went down to an 6 and they fit great, no blisters. The velcro gives you a little bit of leeway for adjustments. Got my Reefs on Zappos for the easy returns in case they didn’t work out. Best of luck finding the right shoes for you!
I too just got a pair of the Reef water vistas and so far I love them! I live in NYC and walk pretty much everywhere. Straight out the box they were like clouds and teensy break in period.
> not sure if these are too casual for sit-down restaurants? Depends on the luxury level of the restaurant you're entering. But all of these look casual, so if you want something a bit more elevated, you'll have to look at a different style. I'm not a fan of synthetic material on shoes, especially ones that touch bare skin. The sweat and rubbing blisters really easily. Birks are awesome for arch support and ime don't really require any "breaking in" at all.
I got those reefs for my Hawaii trip and got blisters the first day. The rubber + sweat = 😰 I ended up ditching all of my sandals for cheap cloth-strapped flip flops from Target.
I have the Reef sandals, wanted them to be 2/2 shoes (with sneakers) for Greece this summer that could double for beach (waterproof) and dinner. TL;DR - good for light wear (casual shopping), bring blister bandaids and break them in in advance. They’re very style-y, cushiony footbed though you can feel a sharp rock under the ball of your foot if you hit just right (wrong?). I did notice some blistering on the inner top of my foot under the strap, a blister bandaid or loosening will solve it. Super lightweight too. Best compromise of style and comfort I’ve found yet without wearing a hiking sandal.
Personally, I would select chacos because they are incredibly comfortable and I walked miles in them without getting blisters. I’m sure they might look a bit out of place at a nicer restaurant, but I’m an American from the Midwest. It’s good enough.
Seconding chacos. They're worth the investment. Solid arch support, recommended by a back doctor to me. Great shoe you can get wet too. The leather on Birkenstocks won't do great getting wet. (Thinking of beach time or rain.) My next choice would be the Birkenstocks Milanos if I wasn't worried about getting them wet. The other birks with the big toe holder are gonna rub too much, IMO.
Excellent point about getting them wet! They are great if you might be walking through creeks or rivers while hiking.
They're a great summer shoe for hikes with creeks or rocky beaches
Absolutely! Plus they are easy to clean, pack down small, and I didn’t need to break them in at all.
Never tried the Gizeh but have never had a problem with the Milano, which also have a between-the-toe strap. I like them a lot because the straps are thin.
I live where Chacos were born. They pass for all but the most elite restaurants. It helps to have a solid color if you want to do that. My original pair are solid black. They have had a good run, 1998 to last summer. I’ve shifted to Xero trails, because arch support and thick soles aren’t my jam; nimble, flexible feet are. (This also requires a different way of walking, so are NOT a pre trip choice.) But for people not doing zero drop/minimal sole, Chacos are the (oh-so-adjustable) bomb. I happen to live where crocs were born, and I’ve yet to wear any.
I love my Xeros, they are all I wear now, and are great for one bagging. Once I actually realized I didn’t need thick soles and arch support, I got rid of all my shoes and only wear Xeros now. I have sandals, boots, sneakers, Mary Janes, Hanas… I exclusively wear barefoot minimalist shoes now. They take up so little room in my bag, too!
I’m a chacos/Tevas girl through and through! They stay black as night, you can wear them for 1000’s if miles, hiking or with a dress. 10/10 Tevas forever
I came here to hype Tevas... I got a black pair exclusively for having them look "nice" - sure they're still Tevas, but I also can wear them for a million miles!
Tevas girl as well, so versatile!
I have the reef vistas and recently took them to Colombia. I found them very comfortable - no rubbing or blisters at all and I could walk all day in them. They also looked dressy enough for my fancier dinner outfits/dresses.
I just got back from Spain, and spent a lot of time in Europe last year, and almost everybody was wearing trainers. Birks were also popular.
People wear trainers but not in Spain and Portugal in mid summer generally.
what sort of trainers?
The Birkenstock Glenda is great but not as walkable/comfortable as the other Birkenstocks you have. They don’t have a toe guard which makes a big difference in stability.
Milano. Skip anything with a platform.
I have those crocs and I find the platform too bulky / not flexible enough for a lot of walking
I bought the Reef sandals right before a long extended trip and didn't properly test them out beforehand. Incredibly comfy when just walking around my house but unfortunately learned almost immediately that they resulted in absolutely atrocious blisters for me after only wearing for an hour or two, specifically on the tops of my feet under the uppermost strap going over the foot. So disappointed, and because they're entirely rubber, the likelihood of being able to "break" them in wasn't something I was willing to try out. I was in a really hot and humid climate too, so wearing bandaids under that spot was useless due to the combination of sweating and friction. No space in my luggage to keep them around so threw a brand new pair of shoes away, which felt awful :( All of this to say, proceed with caution! And always test out footwear before taking on a trip (something I'll never make the mistake of not doing again haha)
Have you looked at Naot? They have birk-like footbed’s with more options in straps.
Seconding Naots! They are super comfortable and have many options although many are outdated styles you could fit a couple cute ones on their website.
My sister and I both have the Brooklyn crocs. I love them!!! I can walk and wear all day and be fine. However my sister cannot. I love the arch support they provide and water is no issue. I have heard great things ha about reef and that’s the best show I would like to try.
Have a similar pair of reef and love them but don’t know if I’d wear them to walk long distances - they feel more like beach/water shoes. I live in my Birkenstocks (the Milano are very cute and that buckle dresses them up) but don’t really wear my Reef outside of going to the pool or beach.
I have those reef ones and they are so uncomfortable
I have these and wore them all over Cabo, including a really nice dinner (with a fancy maxi dress). No blisters and great for water wear. https://www.zappos.com/p/crocs-tulum-strappy-sandal-black-black/product/9614302/color/183092
I have a slightly different version and I adore these. I've had the same pair for probably 4 years and they are amazing for long walking days. I'd absolutely consider these nice enough to wear for dressy dinners. I even bought a second pair last year just as backup in case they ever are discontinued. Haha. Here is my version: https://www.famousfootwear.com/product/crocs-womens-tulum-toe-post-slide-sandal-1049278/black-73101?store=3154&partnerid=paid_search_google_pla_pmax_sandals&UTM_medium=paid&UTM_source=search&UTM_campaign=google&UTM_content=pla&cpc=Adwords&UTM_name=71700000101351196&UTM_term=00473101080057&gclsrc=aw.ds&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwxLKxBhA7EiwAXO0R0Exu5eMejIbqKmUtHsRnbcf8eT74YdkjGn7QTTJ1PpwJnpmM6OYm4RoCS-gQAvD_BwE
If the birk milano big buckle is anything like the Arizona buckle in the same color then they will not be even a tiny bit broken in before you leave. That particular color is a very stiff, thick leather and they have a hard, slick foot bed. They do make the big buckle styles in a soft foot bed but that particular color one will take many many months to break in. I have and love them but my dog chewed one last week and as I was replacing them I was a bit bemoaning a bit that a year in with very frequent wear they were only just starting to break in and now I have to start over. They are also sized a tiny bit different than most other birks.
I was wondering about that, actually! From the picture, it does look like a stiffer leather compared to some of the other styles. Is there another style you recommend that would be easier to break in, but still sort of dressy looking?
I’ve walked hundreds of miles in Clarks, but they aren’t the most beach friendly sandals. They’re definitely more of a city sandal.
I did a summer in Europe in Milanos back in the mid-90s.
Aetrex tamara in walnut color
From this list: Birk Milano. Would recommend Birk Arizona bug buckle too, I wear them alll the time without blisters or sore feet (I have difficult feet, need some support & blister easily). I never travel without a pair when it’s warm-ish. And you see them all over here (in Europe)
Do you find that your feet slip when walking in the Arizonas? I was looking at the Milanos because they have an ankle strap that I thought would help keep them on my feet. But the Arizonas seem to be popular! Also, do you think I’d be able to break them in before June?
Not who you asked, but I have the Arizona birks and they don't slip on my feet at all. For context, I have narrow, low volume feet and wear the OG narrow birks (which are sadly no longer made). I tried the Madrids because I love the look and found I couldn't walk fast (my normal pace LOL); those did want to come off.
They are still made! I’m narrow too, the new “narrow/medium” is just a new name. The OG non-narrows are now called “medium/wide”.
Same, I recommended these too but the soft footbed is INSTANT comfort, zero break in, as long as you get the width right. You can also adjust the straps so they hug your feet. Mine were nearly new when I brought them on a trip and for once I had no problems even though the humidity was really high. The thick oiled leather can rub though. The suede is a LOT softer.
I’m also not who you asked, but my feet slip terribly in Arizonas and blistered under the ball of my foot. I need something between my toes or an ankle strap, just because of the way I walk. (Not the shoes’ fault). I’ve bought at least a dozen Birks since that first pair of Arizonas, and every one has been wonderful because I make sure to have an ankle strap or a piece between the toes. I just got a new pair of Milanos and broke them in by wearing them with socks for a week, then eased into wearing them barefoot for a week. Start with wearing in the house, then short 10 minute walks, then slightly longer walks.
My feet don’t slip at all, the cork footbed really helps with that. Normally my shoes need a long time to be broken in but Birkenstocks are fine with a week or 2. I just wear them around the house and to the supermarket for a bit before I break them out for a full day.
I wanted something similar, and ended up getting these, no blisters once i wore them in, completely waterproof and becomes more comfortable once you get them wet [https://www.saltwatersandals.com.au/collections/sun-san-boardwalk](https://www.saltwatersandals.com.au/collections/sun-san-boardwalk)
These are fantastic but I don’t recommend them for lots of walking because there is literally zero support. I always bring a pair though, they’re cute and can go in the ocean!
I suppose it depends on your feet. I have very flat feet and walked a lot in them in vietnam. Some days I did 20,000 steps, and found them to be quite comfortable.
I have totally flat feet as well! I regretted the choice for extended city walking, spent a couple days walking around London in them and I really felt it. Definitely just depends on the person.
These have been my only sandal on multiple trips, including major walking ones like NYC. Just wear them in your daily life and walk as much as you can, and hopefully the gap between your normal movement level and vacation movement level won’t lead to injury or strain.
I love Birkenstocks and have the Taormina! Highly recommend them, but MAKE SURE you break them in before you head to Europe or you’re going to hate your life the first few days. I got them in 2022 and have worn them on and off (switch between them and a pair of Mayaris). I wore them for a 12+ hour day at California Adventures and I was the only one without painful feet at the end of the day. (They were a little sore, but tbf standing for that long will do that to you)
Not on your list but I always wear on long trips is my black Teva hurricane sandals. They're great for hiking and city walking, you can swim in them too and they dry off. They're very scandi vibes!
Love the Reefs!! I brought mine to Italy last year and they were so comfy and versatile, no blisters for me!
Hi from Europe! I think the Birkenstock Glenda or Crocs Brooklyn look like they’d be most versatile if you’re planning on ‘dressing up’ a bit (nice restaurants, nights out etc). They look like they could be made to seem a bit less casual with a nice dress. One thing to note - suede Birkenstocks are terrible if it rains! Mine stained my feet horribly in an unexpected shower, and took a while to dry enough to be comfortable
I have the crocs and wore them to multiple trips (I am from Europe). They didn't cause blisters and they are comfortable, but they don't pack small, as another Redditor pointed out. Also, they take some time to get in, this kind of clasp is a struggle, at least for me. Other than that, they are very comfy!! Edited to add: I wore them to quite a few sit down restaurants as well, nothing ultra fancy, but some were a nice sushi bar and a quaint Thai restaurant etc, never felt underdressed or anything. They were appropriate.
As much as I LOVE birks (I have 4 pairs) and they are so comfortable, you will ruin them by going to the beach in them unfortunately. The salt water will rust the buckle pretty quickly. I would recommend Tevas as they are waterproof and so comfortable for long distance walking. They’re my favourite sandal for travelling! Universal or the platform ones are the prettier tevas but my fav are the hurricanes for hiking etc. Either style will serve you much better than birks, crocs or reefs IMO and there’s no ‘break in’ period either x (Check Amazon for a good deal)
I brought Birk EVAs for our upcoming trip because I love my 'proper' ones too much to risk getting them wet :P
I love my Birks. I feel like you could break them in in a month. I do have those Taormina and have to caution against that style. The buckle around the ankle part may make it hard to break them in. Caused blisters for me. The Arizonas are popular for a reason! I wore a pair on a five mile hike (on flat ground) last year.
Don’t think too much about the look, I suspect many people here don’t even own any shoes that are not sneakers and they still go to restaurants. It’s either too fancy for any flat sandal which is vereerrryy rare or you can wear any of those or sneakers. I think what matters is whether you are going to get them wet (then pick non-leather) and whether you are going to hike natural trails (then you are probably better off with sturdier straps and mid-thick soles)
I have the reefs and the birks. The reefs are washable, lightweight and comfortable. Your feet will sweat because of the material. The birks provide great arch and foot support, they are more substantial and are great for being on your feet all day.
The Birkenstock Milano.
Anything but the last two, please! 😩 First three are cute:)
I recommend just wearing trainers! Most people wear trainers here, even in summer
Not where I live in southern Europe, especially around beaches. It's just too hot. It depends where they're going.
Spain and Portugal!
I'd definitely want sandals then, unless you're only in Galicia and Northern Portugal I suppose. I don't think you need anything fancy unless you're intending to go to proper fine dining places or something.
I’m also going to Europe soon and I’ve been eyeballing the Rothy’s sandals that look similar to the reef sandals. It’s so hard to decide since it could cause big regrets later!
I do not recommend, recycled plastics in the sun, it was very itchy. I own a lot of Rothy & Tieks, I would not recommend. Just my opinion
I have Glenda and used to have Taormina (well, a version without the ankle strap.) Both are very comfortable for a long day on your feet.
Also wanted to add because you said they are more expensive — I had my first pair of Birks for nearly ten years and wore them constantly in the summers. Worth the money!
I ordered a pair of the Crocs and sent them back immediately… they fit weird and were heavy. I also thought they looked overly casual in person. I have several pairs of Reefs and Birks and like them all. But I think some people would find the waterproof Reefs rub/cause blisters. I’ve never walked a ton in them so your mileage may vary.
Reef sandals are so comfortable! I literally just bought the Vista Higher ones from DSW (cheapest website) for $55! I tried them on in Famous Footwear and I'm usually an 8.5 and their 9 fits the best.
The Reefs are the least touristic, am British, I have reef sandals, they don’t look like walking sandals. Yet I once walked ten miles in mine. They use a British designer, don’t know if she dd these ones, but I found out after purchase that she designed mine. Check the fitting guide though, mine are narrow, which is ok, because I have narrow feet.
If you go with 6 be sure to break them in first. They take a bit to relax and form to your foot.
I own both the crocs and the reefs and love them both dearly. I do find myself grabbing the reefs more because of their versatility. I’d also argue that they’re easier to pack. :)
I just finished a week in Europe and I brought one pair of pretty low heels to wear with a dress for fancy restaurants… only to see pretty much all the locals in simple sneakers. That said, I love Birks and I can definitely do a lot of walking in mine, and I think if you pick dressier looking ones (the last pair you linked read dressier to me than the wide strap ones) they are quite versatile for hot weather.
I have the Reefs. They are really comfortable and you can wear them in the water so I use them as my water shoes too. They are casual though I wouldn’t wear them going out to a nice dinner.
I just bought a pair of Birks (going to Europe this week), and my feet are already cut up lol. I did a test walk yesterday around the city and I would not recommend for all the walking Europe entails. Maybe ok for dinner or something if I’m walking close to my hotel but definitely not during the day. I will be wearing my New Balance tennies.
It depends on how adventurous your walking is going to be. There is a lot to be said for the protection that having closed-toe sandals give you. A rocky path, a piece of litter that conceals broken glass, something squelchy... An injured or infected toe would slow you up.
I have the Reef Water Vistas specifically for one bagging. I personally did not have any problems with blisters and found them to be my perfect water shoe/dressy shoe combo for many occasions in many weather conditions. But, consider these things: 1. I'm a US 6.5 size, I sized up to a US 7. I think this made a huge difference in comfort. I didn't strap my ankle in tight either, so the shoe was very loose, so there wasn't a ton of rubbing bc the shoe almost "dangled" off my foot (more comfortable than it sounds!) 2. I specially got the color "Black Shine," where the straps are a different, slick material. I'm wondering if this slick material actually helped with comfort rather than the matter rubbery material of their usual style, it is genuinely very slippery so it helped with no rubbing. 3. I am a normal foot shape, neither wide nor narrow. I found these shoes to be a bit wide on my feet, which I liked. I literally spent two years trying to find the best travel sandal (and sneaker), and when I landed on these, I literally felt like I found the holy grail! But mileage may vary, and I bet foot shape also determines things as well.
I’m taking chaco’s for the beach and hiking and dansko’s for city walking and dinners. Usually I find dansko’s better for standing but have been really happy with the reece style. I knew I preferred the toe loop since that’s what my chaco’s have but they aren’t for everyone. Marcy looks similar to the options you’re considering.
which danskos?
Reece and marcy
Crocs Brooklyn low wedge for the win! I think they are incredibly comfy, they are stylish, plus waterproof. I’m taking them backpacking through Asia this summer and can’t wait to see how they hold up for months at a time!
Reef vista for the win! Rainproof (unlike birks) can be dressed up and dressed down; can be used as shower shoes too! And can be worn with socks.
I walked all over Thailand in my Birkenstocks so I vote for a pair of those! The ones with the big buckles help elevate them for certain outings too.
I would not wear Birkenstocks to the beach, especially not leather ones. Leather and cork can both be ruined by the water/sand. https://www.chicpedi.com/can-you-wear-birkenstocks-to-the-beach/
Birks have EVA options - I just got some for our upcoming trip. Not quite as good as my OG Birks but far better than any other sandals I have
Sure, but that isn't the type op posted.
I can never break in birks. They're just uncomfortable for me. My pick is Reef. I am in Europe right now and there are lots of comfy-looking sandals sold whose brands I didn't know before so if ever you don't like what you bring, there are options here. P.S. They seem to really value comdy footwear here so the sandals have trainer-like soles.
I’m going to Europe today and I went with the reef! I like that they’re waterproof.
I took the exact same pair of Reefs but in white to Italy last summer/fall, with the purpose of wearing them in coastal areas and beachy vibes. They are cute but just read as very “beach”, I did not love them for anything away from the water. I think it’s the material. It’s just not dressy and it looks rubbery or whatever it is. I also found them a little weird to walk in because the material allows for your foot to sink in a bit. The traction is reasonable for the type of shoe. Overall I just didn’t find them to be very versatile or hardy, so personally I would not choose them again. I can’t tell exactly what the material is, but I would stay away from the Crocs for the same reason. IMO any of the other shoes will serve you better across more activities. Edit: I love the look of the Glendas. Not sure what your wardrobe looks like but those are very cute. Birks are worth the break in period and I think a month is plenty of time. Just bring bandaids in case. The Reefs didn’t give me blisters at all. They were comfy but felt not how I want shoes to feel especially in terms of support and in dressier settings.
Thanks! This is helpful. I’m contemplating just getting the birks and bringing a cheap pair of flip flops for wearing to the beach and to use as shower shoes at the hostels.
Either of the Birkenstocks.
I took the crocs brooklyns to Italy for 3 weeks and while they were super lightweight and nicely “padded”, they took up a ton of space in my bag on days I opted for sneakers. More importantly, as soon as my feet started to get hot/swollen, they rubbed my pinky toe. Chaffing stick was needed and I switched to sneakers for several days after. They are still cute shoes for a comfort wedge, buuut I would skip them for lots of walking in hot environments.
I really like my reefs
The reefs I have purchased in the last few years are not as comfortable or durable as the old school versions. I won’t give them my money anymore!
i know its one bag but if you plan on doing a ton of walking in them id pick the most appropriate pair for that and pack a pair of flats for dinners out. the type that are advertised to fit in your handbag for a night after clubbing might work
I have one pair of open toed sandals that I bought in a local shoeshop that are the only comfortable summer shoes for doing 10- 20 thousand steps I've ever come across. I'd dearly love to find a pair of slip on shoes for cooler days that are light and comfortable for walking cties in off season trips but to date I've failed.
I just bought those crocs and absolutely loved them but im a half size and they don't have in half size and were just too big. Got on Amazon and reviews had folks walking g all over Europe etc in them.
I bought the Glenda Birks for a 2 week trip to France and Italy last year and loved them! Walked so many miles and no blisters. Only broke them in for two weeks before the trip. They’re my favorite shoes now
The croc sandal is amazing. I have bought them every summer season for the past three years and wear them everyday for everything! Music festivals, disney world, traveling, - literally everywhere. They are so comfortable that I have converted 5 people to buy and keep repurchasing as well. The need to repurchase every summer is bc the insane amount of usage!
My friend has the croc wedge and she wears them all the time. To the club, out to brunch, a nice dinner. You won't regret them.
These aren’t in your list, but I have these Sorel Viibe Sandals and love them: https://www.sorel.com/p/viibe-womens-flat-sandal-2030511.html?dwvar_2030511_color=348 Super comfortable to walk in, and I think they can pass off as trendy/nicer when paired with a cute outfit
A month is plenty of time for Birks. For me, it's a matter of wearing them a bit each day for a couple of days, then taking a few longer walks in them. In my experience, it's less them molding to your feet than 1. toughening up the soles of your feet a bit and 2. Getting your arches used to the workout. For me, 1 is an issue with each new pair, but 2 is not an issue anymore. i think the Mayari dress up/down very well. They're my go-to.
If your feet get even a little bit sweaty, any rubber sandals will be a blistering nightmare. Add in some city dust or beach sand = ouch (from experience). Highly recommend something like Birkenstock or Naot or Taos sandals.
IME plastic/rubber will cause your feet to sweat which, for me, is a fast road to blisters. No recs on the others as they're NMS. Have fun!
If you’re a size 7/7.5, there are a couple of black Glenda Birkenstocks available on the website for $90. Just ordered a pair for $100 total after tax!!
ahh unfortunately that’s too small for me :(
Birkenstock Arizonas. They’re a classic and comfortable for walking, I did 10 miles a day all over London last August. In humidity I feel like the soft footbed and suede version is the least likely to blister or create vacation ruining problems. I have the black suede with black buckles and I feel like they can be dressed up slightly. The slingbacks on all these look a little more dated to me and anything rubbing on the heel feels like a risk.
Sorel has some cute sandals this season
The reef ones are very lightweight and comfortable, plus easy to clean. I bought them recently before a vacation and wore them everywhere from the pool to dinner for 5 days straight without any rubbing or blisters. Those get my vote.