Summer’s fast arriving, and that means it’s time for more relaxed footwear. While it feels good to go more casual, sandals aren’t always the most comfortable. And in fact, they can actually cause more pain than anything else.

But you don’t have to settle. Instead, keep these five tips in mind as you shop for sandals so you wind up with ones so comfortable you forget you even have them on:

• Focus on Footwear with Straps

Sandals that easily slip on are more convenient, but they’re not great for comfort or injury prevention. Straps give you more stability because they keep your foot from slipping out.

• Be Cautious Even with Sandals with Straps

While you certainly can find comfortable sandals with straps, most are not ideal for walking long distances. You’ll almost always be okay with shorter distances.

The nature of their design makes them not the greatest option for walking extended distances. If you have to walk a lot, you’re usually best off with a sneaker.

• Make Sure Your Sandals Have Arch Support

When you shop, if you simply must have sandals, look for ones with arch support. In rare cases, you can find sandals that actually feel just fine when you walk, even for long distances. You have to look around a little more and perhaps be willing to spend more than you’re used to.

• Customize

Nothing’s better for your safety and comfort than customizing your footwear — whatever you choose to put on your feet. You might also consider gel pads, insoles, or cushions for the sandals you already have.

While custom footwear costs a bit more, it also significantly reduces your chances of injury, pain, and discomfort. And if you’re on a budget, going with pads or insoles reduces the cost some versus purchasing entirely new footwear.

• Always Buy the Right Size

Don’t rush through the purchasing process or get frustrated and just live with what you have. If you buy sandals online, have the patience to return them and get the right size. The worst thing you can do when it comes to sandals, or any other footwear for that matter, is buy what just doesn’t quite fit.

To correctly measure your feet so you know your size, make sure you always measure at night. Your feet actually get slightly larger at night after a full day of walking on them.

Put a piece of paper on the floor. Use a pencil to trace around each of your feet. Use a tape measure to check the length and width of your foot (check each at their longest and widest points). And make sure to even measure to 1/16th of an inch because even that makes a difference in your experience.

Never Walk in Pain While Wearing Sandals Again

With that information at your disposal, you should never have any pain or discomfort when walking in sandals again. Make sure to keep it on hand as you browse so you have a fun and relaxing summer! Are your shoes causing you pain? Reach out to North Texas Foot & Ankle here.