Soludos The Marseille Wedge
This classic espadrille wedge has a 3.5-inch jute-wrapped heel and linen uppers that feel breathable and light. The hand-woven heel cup has a bit of give, so if you’re in between sizes, the brand recommends sizing down. The rubber outsole and padded insoles up the comfort factor, too.
Machine Washable For Easy Care
Rothy’s The Espadrille
Rothy’s is known for comfortable footwear made from sustainable materials—and their new espadrilles are no exception. The uppers are crafted from a blend of hemp, organic cotton and recycled bottles, and the footbed is ultra-cushioned. Like all shoes from the brand, these espadrilles are machine washable (make sure to let them air dry), and the ankle tie is removable for extra versatility.
Features Several Layers Of Cushioning
Cole Haan Cloudfeel Espadrille Wedge Sandal
Cole Haan’s Cloudfeel Espadrille are a stylish option with a molded footbed, and the sole has several layers of proprietary cushioning. Plus, the notched bottom provides excellent traction, even on uneven terrain, and the uppers are made from buttery soft suede.
Slightly Lower Heel And Comfy Elastic Straps
Easy Spirit Meza Espadrille Wedge Sandal
With a slightly slower heel height (2.7 inches), the Meza Espadrille Wedge Sandal is a versatile shoe that pairs well with everything from flowy skirts to pants. Like other picks on our list, it has a cushioned footbed with arch support to cradle the foot. Choose from five fun colors and patterns, including a vibrant floral motif and blue raffia.
Popular Option From A Well-Known Brand
Toni Pons Ter Slingback Espadrille Sandal
Toni Pons has been handcrafting footwear in Spain for over 75 years and still maintains some original techniques, like hand-stitching the jute sole to the textile uppers. The toe cap on this style provides more coverage than other options, and the two elastic bands on the sides ensure a snug, comfortable fit. Customers say it runs true to size and can be worn all day without blisters.
Polished Silver Hardware Adds Style Points
Franco Sarto Clemens Espadrille Wedge Sandal
The Clemens’ wedge espadrilles stand out for their chic ankle strap, polished hardware and range of colors. They’re a bit taller than most, with a 3-inch heel and 1.5-inch platform, but fans say these espadrilles are comfortable right out of the box and look beautiful with summer dresses. Pro tip: The brand notes that they run small, so order up a half size.
Features A Bold Chevron-Striped Wedge
Ugg Yarrow Espadrille Sandal
Ideal for warm-weather style, this espadrille wedge has an open-toe design and playful bow on the adjustable ankle strap. The back zip closure makes this pick easy to put on, and the cushioned insole means you can wear these espadrilles for walking excursions. They come in several classic colorways, but if you’re looking for something bold, go for the chevron-striped option.
Slip-On Shoe For Everyday Wear
Toms Alpargata Rope Recycled Espadrille Slip-On
If you prefer a flat shoe rather than a wedge for everyday wear, you can’t go wrong with the Toms Alpargata espadrille. The OrthoLite insole is removable, and the uppers feature an elastic fabric panel for extra stretch. This casual style can be worn with anything laidback, from jeans and a t-shirt to a bathing suit and cover-up.
Fashion-Forward Option
Loeffler Randall Gaby Natural Pleated Bow Espadrille
This iteration from Brooklyn-based brand Loeffler Randall is your best bet for a fashion-forward take on the classic espadrille. The braided flatform bottom is 2.7 inches tall and the upper is made from natural raffia, a durable material that’s great for summer (although it’s not fully waterproof, so be careful). Other thoughtful details include a knotted bow on top and an adjustable ankle strap.
Supportive And Stylish
Naturalizer Stella Wedge Sandal
With an elegant shape and versatile style, Naturalizer’s espadrille has a foam footbed with extra padding to prevent discomfort after long hours of wear, and the 2.7-inch wedge heel provides stability. The round toe and leather uppers give this shoe a sleek, modern edge, too.
Comfortable Even On Long Days
Dream Pairs Women’s Open Toe Espadrilles
At such an approachable price point, you can buy this classic-looking shoe in more than one color for all your summer fêtes. The soft elastic ankle strap makes slipping them on a breeze, and the flexible, padded insole is easy to walk in. The thick rubber outsole is also made for comfort and shock absorption. Thousands of reviewers rave about its perfect heel height and how this pick doesn’t require any break-in time.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
- This article was overseen by deputy editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar, who holds a certificate in fashion styling from the Business of Fashion.
- Katherine Louie, the author of this piece, is a lifestyle editor with extensive experience covering fashion and footwear topics.
- This article is regularly updated to ensure all of the above brands and products continue to meet our criteria for the most comfortable espadrilles.
How We Chose The Most Comfortable Espadrilles
To find the most comfortable espadrilles, we considered several factors, such as material, straps, heel height, cushioning, style and price.
- Our fashion editorial team focused on top-rated brands and retailers such as Rothy’s, Naturalizer, Cole Haan and more.
- We read through hundreds of customer reviews for standout product details and only selected brands with straightforward return and exchange policies, should you find any of the espadrilles don’t fit as expected.
- We prioritized products with extra cushioning, molded footbeds, pliable straps that won’t dig into your feet and soft, flexible upper materials. These features all contribute to an espadrille’s comfort level.
- The final products on this list reflect in-depth research conducted by our writer and meticulous vetting by the editorial team.
What To Consider When Shopping For Espadrilles
There are several factors to consider when shopping for the best espadrilles. Here’s what to look for.
More traditional designs have a jute sole and cotton or canvas uppers that offer enhanced breathability. However, espadrilles can be made from various materials, from leather to raffia to linen. Stiffer upper materials like leather might require a slight break-in period, while softer textiles will mold to your feet after 30 minutes. If you’re prone to blisters, look for soft, flexible textiles like cotton, linen, rayon or a blend of those materials.
To ensure all-day comfort, go for espadrilles with extra cushioning in the sole or footbed to soften each step and absorb impact as you move. All the options on our list have special comfort features, whether an elasticized or padded strap, that keep your foot secure as you walk or built-in arch support.
Espadrilles can either be flat, like Rothy’s The Espadrille, or have a wedge heel like Cole Haan’s Cloudfeel Espadrille Wedge Sandal. For options with a heel, most range in height from one to four inches, with most of the espadrilles on our list hovering around three inches. Generally speaking, the lower the heel height, the easier it is to walk in. However, thanks to the broader surface area, wedges are more wearable than heels, regardless of height.
Are Espadrilles Comfortable To Walk In?
Yes, espadrilles are very comfortable to walk in, thanks to the wider surface area and even weight distribution. When you wear thinner heels, such as stilettos, more weight (and thus, pressure) is focused on one point, resulting in foot pain. Espadrilles also commonly have extra cushioning or padding in the footbed, and the heel height is typically under four inches. If you’re doing a lot of walking, a flat shoe like the Toms Alpargata Rope Recycled Espadrille Slip-On might be your best bet.
Should You Size Up Or Down In Espadrilles?
Before purchasing, read the sizing information listed online, as each brand is different. Some styles, such as the Franco Sarto Clemens Espadrille Wedge Sandal, run small, so you may want to go up a size. If your shoes feel a bit snug initially, give them time to expand and mold to your feet. Most textile uppers will stretch out over time, so consider the materials and if they have any give.
What Are The Benefits Of Wearing Espadrilles?
Wearing espadrilles offers you greater stability and less foot pain, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking. In general, they’re an excellent choice for hot summer days when you want a light, breathable and stylish shoe. Most uppers are made from linen, canvas, raffia and cotton, which allow airflow and help keep you cool. Plus, espadrilles can be easily dressed up or down for formal or casual days.
