Jelly sandals are everywhere, from runway models to toddlers and even beachgoers. When you hear the words jelly sandals, though, you might be immediately transported to your earlier years, when your heels slipped out during hot summer days. You'll be pleased to know that 2025's version is nothing like the pair you rocked in the '80s. They're comfortable, cute and super stylish. They are one of the best summer shoes and come in multiple styles, from mules to fisherman-style sandals with varying options for foot support.
While these sandals are super popular, we had to talk to experts to get their real opinions on the trend for style and foot health. We spoke with Dr. Suzanne C. Fuchs, a board-certified podiatrist and style expert Nikki Venus to find out how to style jelly sandals and ways to make them work for you.
Why are jelly sandals popular again?
It seems like every major retailer is coming out with a pair of jelly sandals for women. They are offered in a slew of styles and colors, so there's a perfect pair for everyone. They were first introduced to the world in the early 1980s and stayed in trend through the '90s before disappearing ... until now. We chatted with style coach Nikki Venus to figure out why she thinks the sandals are making a comeback. She mentions that she is loving the resurgence: "They’re nostalgic, fun and very versatile. And yes, I do think everyone can participate in this trend; they're not just for the kiddos. Whether you’re rocking them for a casual brunch, a beach day or just running errands, there’s a jelly sandal for every vibe." She also notes that they are a fun pop of color and bring a carefree energy to fashion.
When it comes to why people gravitate toward these sandals in particular, Venus says, "They’re functional — waterproof, easy to clean and durable, which makes them a great choice for summer activities. You don’t have to worry about sand or unexpected summer rain ruining your shoes. I mean who doesn’t love a cute shoe that’s stress-free, cute and comfortable?"
Venus says it best when talking about the shoes bringing the element of play back into fashion, "My advice is just to have fun with them, I mean that’s the whole point of a jelly sandal."
Editor- and expert-approved jelly sandals
This slip-on jelly sandal is breathable, thanks to the woven design, and they are easy to slip on in this mule style. They come in 28 colors, so you could have a pair for every day of the month if you wanted (and you probably will!). They are very lightweight and movable, so you can take them from the beach to dinner. I [Shigo] like the mule version for summer because they're an easy option for the beach if you don't like flip-flops.
Editor's Note: This style is mostly sold out, but you can shop a similar version here from Dillard's.
Venus loves this pair from Katy Perry's line because they are "the perfect beach sandal — comfortable, fun and full of personality! They bring that playful, nostalgic jelly vibe but with a sleek, modern twist. The soft, flexible material makes them super comfy for all-day wear. I love this line because they have a great selection of different toe-post ornaments to choose from. It’s like an elevated flip-flop but jelly!"
A very famous fashion house first released its spin on jelly sandals last year, and this pair from Old Navy is very similar. They're only $20 and have buyers raving about the style, saying they're "so comfortable." I have had this silver pair on my list to buy for spring and will probably pull the trigger the minute it goes over 80 degrees.
Wild Fable recently came out with its version of jelly sandals with this ballet-inspired option that comes in four colors. The shoe features a woven design, so there is airflow throughout the shoe, textured outsoles so you have traction while walking and a rounded toe for comfort. This pair of sandals boasts over 73 five-star reviews, with shoppers saying they are so comfortable. Senior editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil has been eyeing these for spring.
Steve Madden is always on trend with its shoes for summer, and Madden Girl by Steve Madden released these Y2K-inspired jelly sandals that are made with comfort in mind.
You can't go wrong with the color red for summer. This pair of jellies from Aldo is such a fun pop of color and even goes great with a unique pair of socks. I have this pair and love how versatile they are for being able to be dressed up or down.
The fisherman aesthetic has been super popular the last two years and we have even seen it trending on Pinterest for 2025. Melissa is a very well-known jelly shoe brand and has been around since 1979 with its motto being “Turn plastic into classic.” Since the '80s, the brand has revamped the jelly shoe into many new styles and its popular fisherman-style shoe now features a scent (no more stinky sandals) that smells like bubblegum, an adjustable buckle and a plush shoe insole for added comfort.
I have had these shoes for two years now and have taken them on every summer vacation. I wear them in the city with socks, I have hiked muddy trails in them, and worn them in the ocean for foot support. The bottom of the shoe looks like cleats so it adds much-needed traction.
This pair of jelly sandals has been on associate editor Allie Wise's buy list because of how cute they are. This shoe combines a lot of popular sandal elements to create this unique take on the jelly sandal. The shoe features a fisherman-style upper sole with a leather-style upper strap for added security. The open-toed point of the shoe allows you to show off a great pedicure.
J.Crew recently came out with its version of fisherman-style jelly sandals. Shop TODAY social media editor, Kara Quill, bought these shoes on sale over Memorial Day weekend and was shocked at how comfortable they are.
Are jelly sandals good for your feet?
For Fuchs, when it comes to jelly sandals, her main concern is breathability: “These sandals are often made from non-breathable materials, which can lead to excessive sweating and create a warm, moist environment that fosters fungal infections like athlete’s foot.” Many new styles are made with synthetic or recycled materials, and designs feature lots of holes or woven styles so that airflow is important.
Fuchs also notes that arch support and foot pain from plantar fasciitis is a concern, so shoppers should “look for insoles designed specifically for sandals that can be trimmed to fit. If you choose to wear jelly sandals, consider limiting the time you wear them and alternating with supportive footwear to reduce the risk of foot problems.” She also advises while shopping to look for brands that “incorporate cushioning, arch support and breathable materials. Always read reviews and consider the experiences of others, especially focusing on comfort and foot health.”
If you start to feel pain or a blister pops up, Fuchs says to switch to more comfortable shoes as some sandals are not meant to be worn all day. “It’s important to prioritize comfort and support over style," she adds.
Similar sandal styles to shop
If you need a summer sandal that is optimal for arch support, these flip-flops from Archies are your best bet per an experts suggestion previously. They come in a lot of bright colors similar to the jelly style but have more support for your feet with an inch of orthotic support.
Sperry just came out with this chunky leather flip-flop that comes in a variety of casual and bright summer colors. The shoes are made with a wave-siping outsole for better stability while walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
They became popular in the '80s and carried over into the '90s before losing traction until late 2024 and early 2025. Since then, there have been many more styles to come out like ballet flats, mules, etc.
We talked to a podiatrist and she recommended looking for an option that has more sole support and advised to always listen to your body when it comes to pain. Many jelly sandal options are now made with comfort in mind.
You should make sure to watch out for excessive sweating, blistering and pain as you wear the sandals. If you feel discomfort, make sure to swap out the shoes.
How we chose
Along with speaking with experts in footwear and foot health, we chose the best jelly sandals by including editor-recommended products and paying close attention to the details of each shoe. In addition, we cover a wide range of footwear from athletic sneakers to heels.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Learn more about Shop TODAY.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, is the founder of Luxe Podiatry in Jupiter, Florida. She is a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon with a focus on reconstructive foot surgery and sports medicine.
- Nikki Venus is a style coach with years of experience in fashion, footwear and beauty.
