Summer footwear is always a struggle

[Raindrop12]

I've never managed to master summer footwear. Whatever I try will rub my feet within minutes of walking in them. Consequently, over the years I've accumulated many pairs of unwearable shoes. I would be more than happy to invest in one or two expensive pairs IF I could be sure it would make a difference.
I don't think I have particularly odd shaped/sized feet - size 5.5/6, quite narrow around the ankle but broad across the toes.
I'm looking for mid heel sandals, and flats mostly. Basically anything that can't be worn with socks will hurt.
I'd be eternally grateful for any advice or recommendations or just reassurance that I'm not the only one!

Following as I have the exact same problem - and even the exact same size feet!

Apart from sliders the only summer shoe /sandal that I have found for summer wear that is comfy and versatile Is Menorcan saldals. I’ve had three pairs of solillas and bar maybe two days to soften the leather they have been a dream and I have walked miles in them. Far easier to break in that Birks and can be made dressier. I’ve seen people on here recommend other brands like Palmairas too.
My feet are on the wide side of average and the ankle thing isn’t a factor as it’s a sling back ( a comfy one)
Can’t help with a mid heal sandal I’m afraid

Not necessarily the most fashionable things, but I have had lots of pairs of Moshulu sandals over the years and none of them have hurt my feet (even when worn on hot days, all day, with bare feet).

This was revelation to me, since every other sandals I have ever tried made my feet blister and/or bleed if I had to walk anywhere- no matter how expensive they were or how soft and comfortable they seemed when I tried them on. With these I can even wear the toe post sandals without pain (I'd wanted these from being a teenager but never found any I could actually walk in)

Thanks for the recommendations. I think I've struck gold with some Birkenstock style chunky flat BioComfort sandals from TK Maxx, some low heal strappy sandals from New Look (of all places! They are soo comfy) and some mid height block heal sandals from Marks and Spencers. I've not worn the Marks' pair yet but I'm optimistic!

Wolky's are very comfortable - bit pricey but excellent quality. Mine last years.

www.wolkyshop.co.uk/

I have these and they are super comfy . Next have lots of forever comfort sandals .

I've just recommended these on another thread https://www.amazon.co.uk/Earth-Spirit-Womens-Slingback-Sandal/dp/B07QPP85NW/ref=ascdff_B07QPP85NW/?tag=googshopuk-21
I have feet like you with narrow heels and always have problems but these are so comfy.

Same problem. Never really found a solution!

Compeed anti-blister stick. I have no idea what's in it, but I used it a couple of years ago and it enabled me to wear summer shoes without hosiery for the first time ever. Well, since puberty, anyway.

I’ve bought Fat Face leather sandals for a couple of years - very comfortable. Have found a few pairs of very comfortable ballet flats at TK Maxx, and if walking all day Skechers work for me...like walking in slippers.

Saltwater sandals are fabulous!

Are the saltwater sandals slippy @LyndaLaHughes? They don't seem to have any grip on the soles?

@JaneJeffer

Are the saltwater sandals slippy *@LyndaLaHughes*? They don't seem to have any grip on the soles?

I've not had any issues with them. I have 5 pairs in different colours because I love them so much!

Thanks @LyndaLaHughes. I'm still pondering whether to get some. I think I need a bit more support. They look very flat.

@JaneJeffer

Thanks *@LyndaLaHughes*. I'm still pondering whether to get some. I think I need a bit more support. They look very flat.

I worried that too- but they are honestly so comfortable. There are some on sale on the saltwater site right now.

Agree with saltwaters. You submerge your feet in water wearing them (feels so odd with a brand new pair of shoes) then wear them as they dry. They have Never rubbed my feet and I have flat feet so used to get blisters all the time. Love them! You can sometimes get a second hand pair on eBay and they do tend to hold their value

@JaneJeffer I can walk for ages in them and my feet don't ache from lack of support. Slightly slippy on rocks on the beach but that's the only criticism I have! (and I just bought water shoes instead for rock climbing!)

Thanks @ZoChan. I don't think I'll be doing any rock climbing but by coincidence I put a pair of aqua shoes in my basket for shore walking