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When warm weather arrives, many people swap their closed-toe shoes for sandals. But not all sandals are created equal — especially when it comes to support and long-term comfort. Sometimes we may seek a dressy option, sometimes a sportier sandal for hiking or walking all day, and sometimes something we can quickly slide our feet into. Which brings us to one of the age-old sandal conundrums: do we go for a quick-and-easy slide, or something with a backstrap?
Whether you’re looking for supportive sandals for long walks or stylish comfortable summer sandals for everyday wear, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons before making your choice.
Pros of Sandals with Backstraps
1. Better Foot Support
Unlike flip-flops or backless sandals, backstraps help secure the foot in place, reducing strain on your toes, arches, and ankles. This is especially important for people with ankle instability, foot pain, plantar fasciitis, arthritis and – especially – Achilles tendonitis. So if you’re seeking a sandal for ankle pain, back-straps are the way to go.
Backstraps are also ideal for people with bunions, hammertoes, or clawed toes. This is because when we wear a shoe without a backstrap which isn’t secure to our foot, we claw our toes to keep the shoe from sliding off – this is called “toe clawing” or “toe gripping” and it’s not good for your feet. Overtime, this can affect the structure of the toes. Sandals with backstraps mitigate this issue.
Lastly, backstraps can help prevent tight calves. This is because toe clawing and toe gripping, in addition to affecting the toes, also strains the calves, which makes them tight. Tight calves can lead to issues like knee and ankle pain, Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. If you are prone to any of these issues, a sandal with a backstrap may be the way to go.
2. Secure Fit for Active Days
The ankle strap or heel strap keeps your foot from sliding forward, which helps prevent blisters, toe gripping, and instability while walking — especially on uneven surfaces.
3. Improved Posture and Alignment
Because your feet are more stable, your legs and back can stay better aligned, which may reduce the risk of discomfort or injury during longer wear.
4. Versatile Style Options
From sporty walking sandals to dressy leather designs, backstrap styles can suit both casual and formal summer occasions without sacrificing comfort.
Cons of Sandals with Backstraps
1. More Time to Put On
If you’re in a hurry, buckling or fastening a backstrap may feel less convenient than slipping into backless sandals. This can be particularly problematic for people with limited mobility who cannot bend to put on their shoes (conversely, people with mobility limitations may get more support from a sandal with a back-strap, so it could be a matter of weight the pro’s and con’s and deciding what is most practical).
2. Potential for Strap Irritation
If the backstrap isn’t padded or properly fitted, it may rub against the heel or ankle, causing chafing or blisters.
3. Not Always Dress Code-Friendly
While many styles are fashionable, some workplaces or formal events may require closed-toe footwear.
4. Possible Fit Issues
If the strap is too loose, you’ll lose the support benefits. Too tight, and it can cause discomfort — so proper fit is key.
Choosing the Right Backstrap Sandals
When shopping for foot support sandals with a backstrap:
- Look for adjustable straps to customize the fit.
- Choose cushioned soles with good arch support.
- Test the sandal while walking to ensure there’s no rubbing or slipping.
- If you have mobility restrictions, opt for sandals with stretchable straps and velcro fastenings to make it easier to take your sandals on and off.
Bottom Line
Sandals with backstraps can offer a secure fit, better foot support, and improved comfort for daily wear — but they’re not without drawbacks. If you value stability and want to protect your foot health, they can be a great summer choice. Just make sure to find a well-fitting, high-quality pair that matches your lifestyle.
