Effortless, traditional and comfortable shoes are what I'm looking for this summer — and I'm not the only one. The rise of the grandma sandal reflects a need for a sensible yet trendy shoe for everyday use. According to Google Trends, searches for 'granny sandals' have spiked 253% within the last year. Other related terms, such as 'Birkenstock sandals', spiked by 600% in the past month, while fisherman sandals doubled in the past 30 days.
The grandma sandal trend is not about age but about embracing comfort and practicality. And as someone who commutes by train, cushioned sandals and chunky constructions that are deemed 'ugly' seem very logical and help me stay grounded.
"This trend reflects a larger psychological shift toward comfort as power. There’s something quietly radical about choosing function and making it fashionable," shares fashion psychologist and style expert, Jennifer Heinen.
"Grandma style is about emotional safety, comfort and nostalgic rebellion. It pulls from a softer past: wide straps, orthopedic sole, knit textures, soft florals, practical silhouettes. It says, ‘I don’t need to impress you — I want to feel like myself,'" adds Heinen.
Why are women shopping for 'grandma sandals'?
In an era where we don't need permission to wear what we want, comfortable shoes still reign the runways and our closets.
"We’re in a moment where fashion is less about perfection and more about presence. Grandma sandals offer permission to exist as you are — grounded, stable, unbothered. This trend is part of a deeper desire for authenticity and emotional regulation. These shoes say: ‘I’m not performing — I’m participating.’ In a world full of aesthetic pressure, grandma sandals feel like relief," says Heinen.
What type of shoes are 'grandma sandals'?
Think of sandals with chunky soles, velcro straps, a cushioned footbed, wide designs and slight platform lifts. "They’re practical, ergonomic and sometimes deliberately ‘unsexy.’ Brands like Birkenstock, Teva and Dr. Scholl’s have embraced this vibe — and now, fashion-forward brands are reimagining it through a style lens," explains Heinen.
Also, consider arch support, comfort and fit when looking for a granny sandal. Board-certified podiatrist and ankle surgeon Dr. Najwa Javed recommends opting for sandals with arch support as the main element. “It should be semi-rigid (meaning it should not bend if you push on the arch), it should have a rounded heel cup (not a flat one), and it should be full-length. And of course, when shopping for sandals, look for a pair that aesthetically aligns with your style."
Here are the summer sandals Shop TODAY editors are sporting this season, and the design will offer emotional safety, comfort and nostalgic rebellion, along with a few approved by Heinen and some foot experts.
Best grandma sandals, according to editors and experts
Birkenstocks are a great example of a grandma sandal. They are supportive, comfortable and have a roomy toe box to keep your toes in place. "The design features classic comfort with a refined twist. Grounded, timeless and endlessly wearable," shares Heinen.
Because the design is made from cork and latex, this helps to increase stability on the feet. “They’re really good if you have a flat foot or if you have arch pain because they have a supportive longitudinal arch. But I would recommend them to most people, unless you have some kind of severe ailment that obviously needs a more personalized approach," says podiatrist Dr. Asim Sayed.
Teva sandals are also podiatrist-approved and a brand worn by all. "I had never given Tevas a second thought, that is, until I needed a pair of waterproof shoes for an upcoming vacation. Most water shoes I found were unflattering and brightly colored, but I was drawn to these sandals for the versatile green shade and understated sun and stars pattern," says associate editor Lauren Witonsky.
"Not only did these work well for a kayaking/snorkeling adventure in Costa Rica, but I also found myself reaching for them ahead of both shorter walks and longer hikes during the trip. They are comfortable, fast-drying and multi-functional — perfect for trips where you need to pack light!" She's not the only one who is a fan, a different pair of Teva sandals previously won a Shop TODAY Travel Gear award.
Heinen says Teva sandals are "a playful take on the chunky classic. Great for dopamine dressers or neutral lovers alike."
Editor Amanda Fama loves these platform sandals because they deliver on both design and comfort. She is an avid wearer of grandma style, and reaches for her grandma's closet at any opportunity.
"They're deceivingly lightweight (I can't stand wearing heavy shoes), and the straps are really soft. My only complaint is that they aren't available in half sizes; I bought a size 9 (I'm usually a size 8.5), and I think an 8 would fit me better. So, that's my advice ... if you're shopping for these, I'd personally size down."
Keep it trendy and comfortable with this cork-made pair from Dr. Scholl's. Our staffers have tested Dr. Scholl's shoes many times and they are an award-winning shoe from our Travel Awards. Heinen recommends this one because it is "retro and orthopedic, but in a stylish, elevated way. A literal nod to the grandma aesthetic."
According to the brand, the lightweight construction is meant to move with you.
"These sandals are made to keep you sturdy while walking through water, perfect for the person who likes to engage in water activities. Even if you're not doing water sports, these are super comfy to wear casually," says associate editor Kamari Stewart.
"I've worn them on a day that I was just walking around (walked around 3ish miles in them) and definitely could've gone longer. I love that it has three adjustable straps so you can customize your support around the ankle, heel and toes. Plus, this colorway is so cute and trendy!"
Associate editor Sierra Hoeger is a fan of this pair of Birkenstocks, so much so, she's happy to repurchase if necessary. "There are three sandals that are on constant rotation in the spring and summertime for me: Chacos, Birkenstocks and Tevas. These are my favorite style of Birkenstocks, so much so that I buy a new pair whenever the old ones break. Birkenstocks are durable, comfortable and truly stand the test of time. Once your feet mold to the footbed, they're truly the most comfortable sandal you'll own."
Heading to a tropical vacation? These leather sandals are my go-to for any destination because they’re easy to style and slip on whenever you’re in a hurry. While I was hesitant to wear these at first, I couldn’t believe how well they fit and supported my feet. Fisherman sandals are trending and a great nod to the grandma aesthetic in 2025. This style is available up to size 11 and in five neutral colorways.
I can't wait to rock this pair in the Dominican Republic, while heading to dinner or the pool area. The gold straps and subtle shimmer offer a chic approach to the grandma sandals trend. I've worn Vionic insoles for runs and long walks, and these sandals promise equal support. I trust this brand for their emphasis on stability, cushioning and flexibility.
These sandals have been my go-to since last year. I keep them in Florida for whenever I am back and need a daily pair for running errands and walking around. This design features arch support, a soft footbed construction and a durable outsole made of rubber. Also, these are great for people with plantar fasciitis as they offer a contoured shape and don't hurt your feet after walking around in them.
Senior SEO editor Jess Bender rocks these sandals when she's about to take long walks at the park. “These Sorel sandals have been a mainstay in my summer wardrobe rotation since 2020,” she says.
“The style instantly caught my attention between the cool colorways and scalloped soles, but they also stood up to the hundreds of miles I walked around the parks and streets of upper Manhattan to kill time during the peak of the pandemic.”
I have been wearing Vivaia shoes for over two years now, and the brand never disappoints. Their designs are known for offering a cushioned insole and a padded heel. These sandals encompass all the features I need in a grandma sandal — contoured arch support, thick straps and elevated heel. This pair will keep you adaptable in any weather condition, even if it rains a bit.
Clogs are another popular style in the grandma trend category. Rothy's continues to be a favorite among shoppers — according to Google Trends, searches for this design have risen by 1,650+ in the past 90 days and continue to increase. These come in neutral colors, as recommended by Heinen and they feature a comfortable footbed made from the brand's EverDreamy Footbed technology, ensuring added arch support.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Heinen, you can lean into contrast. "Pair them with floaty dresses, tailored shorts or crisp linen sets to balance their groundedness with lightness. Play with polish: add bold lipstick, a sleek handbag or layered jewelry to elevate the look. The key is to make comfort feel intentional, not accidental. Confidence carries it," she says.
According to Javed, look for sandals that offer a stiff-soled construction, at least 1-inch of height and arch support. “Sandals can be tricky for people with flat feet. It is so important to have medial arch support and most sandals have none.”
How we chose
We selected these products based on insights and recommendations from a fashion psychologist and approved picks from Shop TODAY editors and staffers.
Jannely Espinal has been with the Shop TODAY team for over three years and has covered a variety of topics with a focus on fashion and footwear.
Meet the expert
- Jennifer Heinen is a fashion psychologist and styling consultant.
- Dr. Najwa Javed is a board-certified podiatrist at Silicon Valley Podiatry Group. Throughout her years of practice, she has focused on achieving an optimal state of health for her patients by mitigating foot and ankle injuries.
- Dr. Asim Sayed, DPM, is a podiatrist in Kansas. He is trained in all aspects of podiatry, including sports medicine, wound care and trauma and is a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
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The Flat Lay Co. Flat Lay Makeup Bag