For many, the onset of warmer temperatures requires a complete reassessment of their wardrobe with careful consideration of whether to ditch a few outdated trends or invest in a few dresses. But maybe the one change you can't avoid in the warm-weather season is switching up your footwear. Sure, you can occasionally get away with wearing boots, but like it or not, there comes a day when the sweltering heat forces you to slip into a pair of sandals.
Of course, that doesn't make the switch any easier. With so many different types of sandals available, finding a pair that fits your criteria best can be challenging. Luckily for you, though, that's what I'm here for. And after spending hours scouring trend forecasts, I've concluded there's only one sandal style you need to invest in for summer: chunky sandals.
We've seen open-toe footwear with larger soles reach new levels of popularity on and off the runway. And while most may have thought they were having a moment, their continued relevance has shown both the style's versatility and longevity. But suppose you're still dubious about how practical or pretty chunky sandals can be? In that case, you'll want to keep reading, as I've identified the 25 best chunky sandals you can shop online right now based on reviews, price points, quality, and editorial perspective. These sandals will make stepping into the new season a breeze.
Best Affordable Chunky Sandal
Rating: 4.5/5
Review Highlight: "I saw these on someone on TikTok and did a photo search to find them. I ordered them immediately. They are such a cute summer shoe and can be worn with everything."
Editor's Highlight: While there are so many great chunky sandals out there, this pair from Steve Madden checks all the boxes. It's affordable, you know it's a reliable quality for its price tag, and the design details make it feel more elevated.
More Top-Rated Chunky Sandals for Under $250
Rating: 4/5
Review Highlight: "I love the look of these shoes. They work great with sundresses, jeans, shorts—anything. They're absurdly comfortable. I wore them straight out of the box and walked around all day without any issues. They're a little loose, but I have very narrow feet, so that might be a personal issue."
Rating: 5/5
Editor's Highlight: While there aren't a lot of written reviews about these sandals, they have an overall high rating on Nordstrom. Our rationale behind their appeal is that they're a great value for the price.
Rating: 4/5
Review Highlight: "Just ordered these sandals, and am so happy with them. I can't wait to plan all of my summer outfits around this sandal."
Rating: 5/5
Editor's Highlight: We don't often use words like "chic" to define chunky sandals. Yet these sandals break that norm. The ultra-sleek straps paired with the thicker footbed give them the perfect balance.
Rating: 3.9/5
Review Highlight: "Comfortable and a decent amount of 'give' so it's not cutting your feet."
Rating: 4/5
Editor's Highlight: Senso is the footwear brand to turn to when you're looking for a pair of sandals that are fashionable and functional. The best thing about these chunkier flip-flops is the raffia embellishment on the platform—it gives the perfect pop!
Rating: 5/5
Review Highlight: "Love these sandals."
Rating: 4.3/5
Review Highlight: "Love these sandals so much that I ended up buying them in all-black! They can be dressed up or down. The material is so good, and I've gotten so many compliments."
Rating: 4.3/5
Review Highlight: "Absolutely love these sandals. They are so comfortable, the perfect height (not too high and not too low), and are super stylish."
Rating: 4/5
Editor's Highlight: Charles & Keith is where I find all the sandals I want to wear for the season. It hits all the prerequisites—trendy, affordable, and comfortable. I'm currently coveting this pair of chunky flatform flip-flops.
Rating: 4.5/5
Review Highlight: "Love them! It does take a while to get used to the back heel strap, but otherwise, it's a really nice-looking shoe."
Rating: 4.5/5
Review Highlight: "If you have wide feet, you will love these platform slides! Perfect for summer. These are so comfy, have a nice cushion and not too tight."
Best Chunky Sandal Overall
Rating: 4/5
Editor's Highlight: No sandals embody the quiet-luxury aesthetic quite like this sleek pair from The Row. So many of our editors have these sandals on their wish list because the chunkier footbed is a bit trendier, while the thong silhouette airs on the more timeless side. Plus, the sandals are made from suede and leather, ensuring they last for years.
More Chunky Sandals Worth Investing In
Rating: 5/5
Review Highlight: "They are so darn cute! Don't think about it, buy them! Received them today, and I'm beyond excited to wear them when the weather warms up in Chicago!"
Rating: 4/5
Editor Highlight: What better way to add chunky sandals to your closet than platforms? The great thing about these sandals is that they look as stylish as wedges but have a footbed that's not as curved for better comfort. Plus, the linen fabrication feels very appropriate for summer.
Rating: 4/5
Review Highlight: "I have four pairs of Tamara Mellon shoes and love them so much. The workmanship is exquisite and makes them worth every penny. The comfort padding can't be beaten and [is] done in such a way that [it] doesn't]t take away from the beautiful design but absolutely adds to it."
Rating: 4/5
Editor's Highlight: It doesn't get more luxurious than the checked raffia pattern on these flatform slides. They'll add the perfect pop to any summer ensemble.
Rating: 4.8/5
Review Highlight: "Get these. When I say they're extremely comfortable, I mean it. They are true to size, wide-feet friendly, and super comfortable. I love the adjustable straps. This is honestly one of my few luxury purchases that I don't feel guilty about; definitely going to be a staple in my closet for years to come."
Rating: 5/5
Review Highlight: "Never had a higher quality pair of shoes than these Marni sandals. Even though they're expensive, I love them. They soften after a few wears and are so comfortable."
Rating: 5/5
Editor Highlight: Staud's accessories are a great value for their price, especially the shoes. The brand's sandals are trendy (just look at that chunky sole) and well made.
Rating: 4/5
Editor Highlight: These fisherman sandals strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. They have a slightly chunkier sole, which gives you a lifted look without overdoing it. There's a cushioned footbed, which makes them ideal for arch support. Plus, the hardware adds a nice touch.
Rating: 4/5
Editor Highlight: Everything about these chunky slides is so cool, from the wooden footbed to the grommet-embellished leather band.
Rating: 4/5
Editor's Highlight: Simon Miller's platform sandals will elevate all your summer ensembles (quite literally). The ultra-high platform sandals have a cult following among the fashion set for their dramatic chunky silhouette and high-quality materials.
Rating: 4.6/5
Editor Highlight: The best part about these sandals are the luxurious details, such as the logo-adorned pearl embellishment hardware and the ultra-smooth leather. For anyone wanting to make a long-term investment, these Jimmy Choo sandals fit the bill.
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