Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to pull out the right footwear for the season. Sandals are easy to slip on and help you stay cool during the warm summer months.

Here are some tips to keep in mind as you shop for the perfect sandals this summer.

Set a Budget

Just like shoes, sandals come in a wide variety of prices. If you plan on wearing the sandals for a few summers, you may consider spending more money to get a pair or two of higher quality sandals. However, if you want to follow the trends and have a few pair just for this summer, you might consider looking for a less expensive options.

Check the Internet, catalogs and stores to compare prices. If you wait until mid-summer, you can usually find sales, but you’ll miss half of the sandal season. And there is no guarantee the styles and sizes you want will be in stock by the time prices are reduced.

Check the Styles

Flip-flops are very popular at the moment. Some flip-flop style sandals are raised like platforms, while others are flat and have cushions. Dressy and casual sandals come in flat, heeled and platform styles. Choose at least one pair in a neutral color, such as bone, brown, or white if you want to wear them with a lot of different outfits. If you want to add some spice and bling-bling to your summer look, check out sandals with sparkles, jewels, or fun straps in them.

Look at Comfort

When you try on a sandal, make sure the sole is bigger than your foot when you stand. If possible, go shopping for sandals later in the day, after your foot has swollen to its regular size. You will also want to check that the sole is firm and does not bend. If it bends too easily, the sandal may flop around when you wear it. Try on a sandal and walk up and down the aisle of the store to test it for comfort. It’s very frustrating to purchase a sandal and then not wear it because it is uncomfortable, so make sure the sole, straps, toe section and arch are all comfortable on your foot…uncomfortable shoes will only get worse with wear. ~Walking Sandals

While most sandals are just for looks and do not provide support, some are designed for walking. If you want walking or hiking sandals, look for a pair with good support. Also look for straps to adjust how the sandal fits. You want the shoe to fit snugly to avoid painful rubbing during long walks. You may also consider looking for a sandal that is slightly flexible. This will help it move with your feet as you walk. Some walking sandals also include a covering for your toes. This protects your foot from dirt and stones on trails.

Ready to shop!

As you go shopping for sandals, keep in mind how much you want to spend on each pair. Which ones are to keep from season to season and which are just for one summer? If you live in a warm climate, you’ll wear them longer and more often than if they are only for a couple of months a year.

Browse all the styles to find the kind that you like. Make sure each pair you buy is comfortable on your feet. And don’t forget a pedicure to show off those cute new sandals you’re going to find!

Shopping for new sandals can be a fun and inexpensive way to update your summer wardrobe. You can find different sandals online, in catalogs, and on the shelves in stores.

Ready, set, shoe shop! Walking Sandals

While most sandals are just for looks and do not provide support, some are designed for walking. If you want walking or hiking sandals, look for a pair with good support. Also look for straps to adjust how the sandal fits. You want the shoe to fit snugly to avoid painful rubbing during long walks. You may also consider looking for a sandal that is slightly flexible. This will help it move with your feet as you walk. Some walking sandals also include a covering for your toes. This protects your foot from dirt and stones on trails.

Ready to shop!

As you go shopping for sandals, keep in mind how much you want to spend on each pair. Which ones are to keep from season to season and which are just for one summer? If you live in a warm climate, you’ll wear them longer and more often than if they are only for a couple of months a year.

Browse all the styles to find the kind that you like. Make sure each pair you buy is comfortable on your feet. And don’t forget a pedicure to show off those cute new sandals you’re going to find!

Shopping for new sandals can be a fun and inexpensive way to update your summer wardrobe. You can find different sandals online, in catalogs, and on the shelves in stores.

Ready, set, shoe shop!