Did you know that the average person takes about 14,000 steps per day while visiting one of the Disney World theme parks? So, it goes without saying that comfortable shoes are an absolute MUST!
One of the worst things is going to Disney only to discover that the shoes you brought with you because you thought they were comfortable turned out to be one of the most uncomfortable pairs ever. And trust me, this has happened to me on SO many occasions, so I’m here to help you avoid the same feet, I mean fate.
Here are the best sandals to wear for Disney World (trust me, your feet will thank you!)
Crocs
Crocs get a lot of hate, and sure, it is kinda for good reason because they are not the most stylish pair of shoes out there but they are incredibly comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
In fact, one of my favorite pairs of shoes that I literally wear every day around my house, to Disney and while running errands is a pair of Mickey Mouse Crocs sandals that I bought at Hollywood Studios (because my feet were killing me and needed something more comfortable).
I highly recommend these shoes because they are really comfortable. They have a rubber footbed, which provides a lot of comfort at the parks. They also keep your foot secure, which is an advantage from ordinary flip-flops.
Personally speaking, though, I recommend these over the traditional style Crocs that they sell in the parks. I did not find them to be super supportive for walking around all day, but that might be my personal experience. If you do want to wear them, make sure you break them in a little beforehand.
You can buy yourself a pair here.
Go Walk Pizazz Flip-Flop from Sketchers
These shoes are similar to the Crocs sandals I mentioned above. They have a rubber footbed, and a little bit of a lift so your heel isn’t touching the ground. It also has a fabric center separating the big toe from the rest, which isn’t irritating to the skin, unlike some other flip flop brands.
Overall, these were pretty comfortable to wear to the parks all day. As such, they have a 4/5 star rating on Amazon. You can purchase them online here.
Stylish Thong Sandals by INMINPIN
While these have an elevated sole, they are extremely comfortable to wear outdoors. They are made out of a non-slip material, so you don’t have to worry about injuring yourself on that famous track on Main Street, U.S.A (#iykyk) and in slippery, rainy conditions.
Plus, this material is super breathable and easily absorbs sweat, making it the perfect shoe to combat Florida’s intense heat. They’re also pretty versatile and have the ability to be dressed down at the parks and dressed up if you go out to dinner at Disney Springs or another resort.
You can check these shoes out here.
Read more: The 10 Best Disney World Restaurants
Backstrap Sandals by Vionic
While these are a little pricier than the other options on this list (these retail on Amazon between $42-$109), they are worth the investment if you visit Walt Disney World often or are planning to do a lot of walking during your vacation.
These also have a rubber sole and an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, which is perfect if your feet swell during the heat like mine. These shoes have also received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, so you know they mean serious business when it comes to comfort.
As someone who suffers from serious nerve damage, I’m usually in a lot of pain when I walk for long periods of time and these sandals really provide me with phenomenal support. So, if you also suffer from a painful medical condition in either your feet, legs, or spine, these shoes can definitely help you.
You can grab a pair here.
Tirra Sport Sandal by Teva
The Tirra Sport sandal by Teva is probably one of the most highly-regarded sandals by Disney fans because they’re genuinely comfortable for all-day wear. These rubber-soled shoes comfortably support your feet and come in a variety of colors.
While I’ll be the first one to admit that they aren’t the most *attractive* pairs of shoes on the market, they rank pretty high in terms of comfort thanks to the sandal’s heel cupping, which adds additional support while walking.
They’re available on Amazon here.
Tips for Buying Comfortable Shoes For Disney
When you’re buying new shoes to bring to Disney World, we recommend buying shoes that have the following attributes:
- Breathable
- Fast-to-dry
- Supportive sole
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- True-to-Size
We also recommend trying to find a pair that is either a neutral color or one that will easily pair with the outfits you bring with you. Versatility (and of course, comfort) is key at Disney!
Read more: The Best Shoes to Wear at Walt Disney World
Also, Stay Away From Birkenstocks
Another important tip I’d like to share is to stay far, far away from Birkenstocks. While these shoes have gained a reputation of being one of the most comfortable brands on the market because of how they conform to your feet, I have never worn anything so uncomfortable in my life.
Experts recommend breaking them in first before attempting to wear them for long distances and I absolutely agree. The jury is still out on these and I’ve heard mixed reviews from people who swear up and down by them and others who have never found them comfortable despite multiple efforts of breaking them in.
My recommendation is to avoid purchasing any sort of trendy shoe like that and take the time to break them in for a long time before bringing them as your only option for vacation. Always, wear the shoes first. Never pack something you’ve never worn before.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to a Walt Disney World vacation, comfort is the name of the game. Do you swear by any of the shoes mentioned here? Let us know and be sure to follow along with WDW Vacation Tips for more insider tips on how to make the most of your Disney World vacation.
As a self-proclaimed Mouseketeer, Courtney Dercqu is a fan of all things Disney. Between decorating her desk with souvenirs from the park, to making unique mouse ears and having a dedicated Disney Instagram, Courtney is a true believer in the magic of a Walt Disney World vacation. Having had more than 200 articles published on various content, Courtney’s excited to share her knowledge and experience with everyone! Be sure to follow her on Instagram for all the Disney magic.