Flat sandals with straps that don't make me look like I'm 80

[OfAllThePlaces]

Feels like I'm searching for something that doesn't exist.

My mobility and chronic pain has come to a head, and I can no longer wear my usual Birkenstocks or wedges that I'd wear in the summer. I need wear flat sandals, with a bit of structure over my toes and a heel strap, and can't have a chunky or thin sole. Can't tie around my ankle as sometimes one of my ankles swells from oedema. I also have a very high instep, so can't wear ones that cover my full foot.

I want ones where I can pull the ankle strap over my ankle, or a velcro strap so that I don't have to bend down too long to get them on.

All the ones I've found look like what my nana wears, with elasticated backs.

I liked these ones https://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/2,60/5346085216 but DH laughed jokingly and said his mam would wear them, so didn't get them.

Budget is around £75 a pair. I'd like an everyday pair and a pair I could wear if going out to a beer garden or to look a bit fancier.

These are a good Birkenstock dupe if you like that kind of thing https://www.cottontraders.com/footwear/unisex/adjustable-sandals/AQ13852.html

Yes, I like the chocolate brown whistles ones that @EleanorMc67 posted. And then obviously I like the camper ones that I suggested😂. After those I think I prefer the ones the OP looked at!

It is a decision really. ‘Orthopaedic’ vs stylish maybe.

I am 55 and intend to swerve those brands, Gabor etc for as long as I can..;-)

But I acknowledge that I don’t have chronic pain or foot issues.

Also if had to do a long walk in summer, I would choose nice boots or trainers, not walking sandals. It’s interesting to see what’s out there though.

Thank you! Just what I’ve been looking for, all ordered 😄

Try Tkmaxx if you have one close by, they are always great for variety and cheaper.

Your "D" H needs to keep his cake hole shut. Is he a trend setter? I'm betting not.
Those look fine.

The coolest place to be, IMO ...!! But I am a lefty greeny & always have been. I'm also (like @SpringyOnions ) hoping I never have to resort to the most orthopaedic-looking sandals that have been posted on here ... but who knows what ageing might bring ... 😶!!

I wasn't so keen on your original choice, OP - as I think being beige suede adds to the orthopaedic vibe - but I think they're much nicer in black - my default, along with navy - or metallic, which helps to make them them look more "going-out". (Or brown if it goes with your wardrobe.)

Blowfish by Malibu do really comfy sandals

I would wear those IF I was going on a proper hiking holiday in warm weather. Which is probably never going to happen ...!

I'm not keen on how "naked' the foot looks in them (I don't like thin thong-type sandals etc for the same reason - they look faintly obscene to me!). Plus, some of the photos are giving me German nudist camp vibes ... no other clothes, just socks!

These are so comfortable, I have them in black and cream. The elasticated ankle makes them really good for swollen ankles.

Off topic but have you had medical advice on your oedema? It can be caused by both heart and kidney problems both of which are best addressed early.

https://www.deichmann.com/en-gb/p/graceland-sandal-black-748

These are quite nice. I like the dark red.

Penelope Chilvers are pretty good for comfort generally, I find. I have a few pairs of boots, trainers & sandals.

Someone else alluded to it but sandals are hard to find when you need an orthotic and have developed things like plantar fascitis, etc. The small heel on the Penny Chilvers sandals makes up for the lack of arch support and the firm sole also helps. I agree that some of the Hotter/Gabor/Eco offerings are grim, but there are aome jewels amongst them. It's a balance of substance and style and pain shows quickly on the face.

Thanks to genes and never wearing too hogh heels or shoes that pinch I am fortunate that my feet still look presentable and I am thankful for that. My mother who chose style, heels and fashion is not so blessed.

I had to look up Hoka. This is what they wear? You're right on them being fuck-ugly ... they look like hovercrafts!!!

Didn't think I'd ever like anything FitFlop, but these are quite nice.

I've got quite slim feet (narrow fit in Birkenstocks) & they're fine.

I have these from Reiker They're not my favourite as I bought them in desperation before a holiday. They're not leather and the strap is not a buckle but has hidden velcro.

However, I'm always surprised by how they look fine once on and I've worn them with dresses and linen trousers. They might fit your remit. They've got a decent footbed and the wedge is only slight.

It's the black ones. I can't get the image to post.

Yes, needs must ... I am still trying to break myself back into wearing kitten heels (or anything with a heel really!!) since lockdown ... I think those years of being able to run for the bus in high heels are long gone!

I like that first pair - assume that back strap is elasticated? As it doesn't seem to specifically say so, but must be as there's no buckle?

Thanks for the link to these, they are exactly what I’ve been looking for. Never once thought of Whistles for shoes.

The pewter Ria ones? Hope you like them! I really rate Whistles footwear - & bags & leather-ware generally. As good or better quality than much more expensive brands. They used to do some good collabs with people like Ally Cappellino, but not lately.

Could you wear Birkenstocks with a back strap or are they no longer suitable?

Yes I think they must be. I have seen some other tempting shoes on camper… I don’t need them though!

I like yours OP. They're really nice

https://global.ecco.com/en-ae/ladies/product-types/sandals/+exowrap+w-811803-59113

sporty looking but extremely comfortable and quite supportive 😊