I Struck Gold With This Viral Tiktok Video Where Travelers Reveal the Comfiest Walking Sandals—From $54

While scrolling TikTok searching for European itinerary inspiration (as one does before a big summer trip), I landed on a post that instantly caught my attention: “Ladies. Advice needed. I’m going to Europe for three weeks and need trusted recommendations for a cute sandal.” Her criteria? The shoes “can’t make my feet bleed, have a minimal heel, must have a backing, and are tried and tested.” Naturally, I dove straight into the comment section— found a gold mine of real traveler recommendations from people who’ve clocked thousands of steps across cobblestoned cities, coastal towns, and bustling markets in everything from Italy to Japan. 

These aren’t just sandals that look cute on camera; they’ve been vetted by people who’ve put them through airport security, long-haul flights, museum marathons, and uphill walks. From cushy Reef sandals to sleek Steve Madden picks with tons of arch support, I rounded up the most-hyped pairs, complete with firsthand reviews and tips. Prices start at just $54—keep scrolling for the TikTok comment section-approved sandals that deserve a spot in your suitcase.

TikTok’s Most-loved Sandals:

• Best overall: Croc Brooklyn Sandals, $65
• Arch support hero: Steve Madden Mona Sandals, $54 (originally $90) 
• Comfy for long walking days: Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals, $80
• Day-to-night comfort: Cole Haan Cloudfeel Tilden Sandals, $91 (originally $130) 
• Best gladiators: Dr. Martens Gryphon Gladiator Sandals, $90
• Podiatrist-approved brand: Vionic Reese Slingback Sandals, $110 (originally $115) 
• Best waterproof: Reef Vista Sandals, $65
• Lasts forever: Naturalizer Soul Cindi Sandals, $57 (originally $90) 
• Goes with everything: Birkenstock Glenda Sandals, $145
• No break-in needed: Clarks Giselle Wedge Sandals, $57 (originally $90) 

Croc Brooklyn Sandals

The top-voted comment in the TikTok thread pointed directly to the Crocs Brooklyn Sandals—and the replies only reinforced their reputation. One traveler said, “I just wore them for two weeks in Italy with no problems.” She also called them “her favorite summer shoe.” More than 1,000 people liked the comment and echoed similar experiences.

Another chimed in, “I just got back from a trip to Japan and wore these almost every day,” while a third added, “Crocs Brooklyn sandals have been the only thing I can wear with plantar fasciitis.” Despite the 3-inch heel, the lightweight foam footbed keeps your feet cushioned all day. Style-wise, they work just as well with a floaty maxi dress for dinner as they do with jeans and a tee for a casual walking tour. It’s rare to find a sandal that balances height, comfort, and style this well.

Steve Madden Mona Sandals

I’ll admit it: these Steven Madden sandals are sitting in my Amazon cart right now. Between their sleek design, luxe gold accents, and the glowing TikTok reviews, it was impossible to resist. One user wrote, “I saw a girl doing a Europe trip on TikTok wearing them, so I bought them for a trip I’m on now, and they are the best money ever spent. I swear by them.”

Another shopper shared, “I wore mine on my two-week trip to Europe, where I averaged 20,000 steps a day, and I agree these are great.” The hook-and-loop front strap adds adjustability for swollen travel feet, and the versatile silhouette means you can dress them up for dinner in Paris or down for exploring an open-air market in Mexico City.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals

Teva has long been a travel staple, and the Hurricane XLT2 version is the TikTok crowd’s latest obsession. “I got the Teva Hurricanes for my trip this summer and have been testing them out. I really like them so far,” one person shared, while another commented, “I use these for beach, mountain hiking, and wear them with dresses.”

One especially compelling review said, “I wore these for two weeks walking around and climbing stairs in cathedrals in Europe. I got no blisters and my feet felt great.” With durable traction, adjustable straps, and water-friendly construction, they’re ideal for everything from city sightseeing to coastal hikes. Bonus: the muted green shade pairs easily with linen sets or floral skirts.

Cole Haan Cloudfeel Tilden Sandals

For travelers seeking style that doesn’t sacrifice support, Cole Haan’s Tilden Sandals are a smart pick. Their elegant stitching and gold buckle dress up any outfit—think romantic dinners in Santorini or a sunset cocktail on a rooftop in Barcelona. One person wrote, “I wore Cole Haan sandals to walk up Pompeii and was shocked at how comfortable I was.” Another added, “I have walked many miles in those sandals.” The brand’s Cloudfeel cushioning offers sneaker-level softness, and their polished leather finish makes them an easy swap for heels in your vacation wardrobe.

Dr. Martens Gryphon Gladiator Sandals

If your travel style leans edgy or you simply love a sandal that lasts, Dr. Martens’ Gryphon Sandals are for you. “They’re my Disneyland shoe, and saved me while walking 20,000 steps a day in Europe,” one TikTok user said. She added a tip: “Wear them for a week before you go just to loosen up the leather a bit, but I honestly haven’t had a huge problem with blisters.” With thick straps, durable soles, and signature silver hardware, these sandals can be worn from day to night. Style them with a black midi dress in Berlin or denim shorts in Tokyo for a bold, grounded look.

Vionic Reese Slingback Sandals 

Designed with podiatrist-approved arch support and orthotic cushioning, these Vionic slingback sandals are tailor-made for travelers who prioritize foot health. One person living in Rome shared, “There are lots of cobblestones, and I walk 5,000 to 15,000 steps a day. These are my favorites.” 

Another shopper recovering from a botched bunion surgery wore them in Greece and said, “They make walking bearable, since they’re really light.” Available in several shades, they’re stylish enough to wear with wide-leg trousers and a linen top while still supportive enough for long museum days or uphill walks.

Reef Vista Sandals

Designed with water-friendly materials and beachy inspiration, the Reef Vista Sandals are a smart pick for coastal getaways. “They’re cute enough to wear to dinner and can also be worn at the beach and in the water,” one user said about their trip to Greece.

Another reviewer noted, “If it happens to rain at all, your foot won’t slide around.” Whether you’re walking through Positano’s winding streets or hopping on a boat tour, these can easily handle the shift from sand to city. They’re simple, supportive, and designed with a grippy insole that keeps your foot stable, wet or dry.

Naturalizer Soul Cindi Sandals

Comfort and longevity go hand in hand with these Naturalizer Soul Cindi sandals, according to TikTokers. “I wore a pair around Italy for three weeks. Five years later, they’re going strong,” one user shared. Another noted, “I’ve worn my Naturalizers heavily for eight years.” With cork soles, vintage-inspired leather straps, and a classic silhouette, these sandals scream “European summer.” They’re perfect for walking tours, lazy afternoons sipping wine, or browsing markets in Provence. Plus, they mold to your foot over time, so they only get better with each trip.

Birkenstock Glenda Sandals

Known for their orthopedic-level support and minimalist styling, the Birkenstock Glenda Sandals are a beachy yet elevated option. “I wore mine for the first time walking miles in New York City and no discomfort whatsoever,” one reviewer wrote. The contoured cork footbed adapts to your arch over time, while the subtle wedge gives a flattering lift. The monochromatic leather strap design makes them incredibly easy to style, whether you’re wearing a linen dress in Ibiza or cropped trousers in the Amalfi Coast.

Clarks Giselle Wedge Sandals

You might not expect a 3-inch wedge to win comfort points on TikTok, but Clarks’ Giselle Sandals did just that. One traveler said, “Honestly, the most comfortable shoes I own are a pair of Clarks wedge sandals. The first day I opened them, I walked 8 miles with no pain.”

They’re versatile enough to wear from sightseeing to dinner without needing to change shoes. The cushioned sole offers surprising support, and right now, they’re 40 percent off, making them a budget-friendly splurge just in time for your next trip.

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