Teva Is Low-Key the Best Place to Buy Cute and Comfortable Sandals

A couple of years ago, Mary-Kate Olsen was spotted wearing these sandals out and about in NYC and almost immediately caused a frenzy among the fashion set. Mary Kate and Ashley’s brand, The Row, is not exactly what I’d call accessible (even if it is supremely chic), so the fact that she’d given her stamp of approval to such an affordable shoe was huge. And I’m here to tell you, these sandals are more than just celebrity hype. The crisscrossing cords are highly adjustable, giving you the ability to make even micro changes along the entirety of your foot for a fit that is completely unique to you. And unlike the OG Teva design, these have a fabric footbed, which I find much more comfortable for combating peak summer sweat. I didn’t have to spend any time breaking them in, plus they’re waterproof, lightweight and have ample cushioning. For those who like a little lift, they also come in a midform version that adds 1.25 inches to your height and comes in the same three neutrals as the original. My only complaint, and it’s a very small one, is that the straps do leave impressions across my feet after a full day of wear.

When you hear the word ‘Teva’ chances are the Original Universal Sandals are the image that first pops into your head. And I’ll never knock the eternal classic (more on them in a bit), but for a slightly chicer look I much prefer the slim version. The thinner straps read more elegant and less sporty. I have these in classic black EVA as well as brown leather ($75), and both look incredibly cool with trousers, midi dresses and other more elevated wardrobe pieces. They have the same trio of adjustable hook-and-eye straps as the OG, but are approximately half the width, by my measurements. The fabric straps also don’t rub or irritate my skin, and because they can be loosened if needed, they’re great for travel—swollen feet from the plane or a full day of walking won’t feel pinched or stressed. And both the fabric and leather versions have a rubber sole for added traction, whether you’re strolling along an uneven sidewalk or a rocky beach.

Flip-flops are a controversial shoe choice, this I know, not in the least because they often don’t offer much support. But this Teva pair is different. The addition of two extra straps across the top of the foot do wonders to reduce the “flop” of the shoe (in other words, they won’t slap against your heel with every step) and keep your foot feeling securely in place. But Teva also added an impressively designed mid- and outsole to ensure your arches also gain the support missing from so many other flip-flops. And, yes, it really makes a difference. I can happily wear these cuties for long strolls through Central Park or to trek the 30 blocks from my apartment to one of my favorite restaurants for dinner. The footbed also has a microfiber lining that feels really nice in humid and hot weather—not too sticky, not too soft. I will note, the straps on the TirraTraveler flip-flops are not adjustable, something multiple reviewers say they hope might change with future iterations. As someone with slightly wider feet in front, I do find they have a pretty snug fit, but don’t dig in or rub. And I suspect the fabric will loosen a smidge over time and with frequent wear.

The Hydratrek have a much sportier vibe than the previous three sandals—they’re a tried-and-true water shoe, after all—and remind me of a slightly amped up spin on the Original Universal design. But I still find they work surprisingly well for city life, too, especially in this vibrant Tigerlily color. The combination of orangey red and bright lilac is incredibly cool and adds a fabulous pop of color to my summer ‘fits. They look great with jeans, of course, but I’m also a fan of styling them with equally bold pieces for a truly maximalist ensemble. And as you might expect from a shoe designed to handle slippery surfaces and wet terrain, these cuties have fantastic traction and ample support. In fact, the footbed is specially textured for maximum grip. I have pretty sensitive skin, so this was originally something I felt slightly concerned about for day-to-day wear, but I can’t actually feel the texture underfoot when walking or standing. And, as per usual, the three straps are all adjustable to ensure the fit is exactly right every time. I also really appreciate the addition of navy padding in places where hot spots would most likely occur, both for aesthetics and for the practical protection of my skin.

Yes, these are by far the most attention-grabbing Tevas I own and I recognize they may not be for everybody. But I’ve been having a blast finding ways to wear them in NYC without looking totally out of place. (FYI, I actually opted for the men’s version because I preferred those color options.) They were originally designed as a trail running sandal with a knit upper and springy sole intended to move with you as you bop along the trail. There’s also a W-shaped strap system, with an extra strap at the back of the heel, to ensure your feet stay locked in with no slipping or sliding around. But for every day that bounce and spring feels great for strolling around the neighborhood and keeping my feet feeling fresh from morning to night. P.S. If you like the look of the knit upper and chunkier sole, but not the vibrant colors, the Grandview Max Hiking sandals ($130) have a lot of the same vibes in much earthier tones.

The sandals that started it all—at least, the sandal that started my love affair with Teva. The iconic simplicity of three adjustable straps and a lightweight EVA sole just can’t be beat if you want something easy, sleek and comfortable. It’s instantly recognizable, but don’t necessarily steal the show, especially if you opt for a timeless neutral like black or beige. They don’t take up much space in a suitcase and can be adjusted on the fly, ideal for travel. All in all, they’re just a spectacularly dependable sandal. And if you do happen to find yourself trekking through a stream or hopping over rocks, you can rest easy knowing these beauties are waterproof too. Truly, what more could a gal ask for?