As the summer season is in full swing, my search for the perfect pair of sandals has become a top priority. With a coastal holiday on the horizon, music festivals to attend and family outings planned, I needed a pair of sandals that could keep pace with my active lifestyle without sacrificing style.
I’ve experienced my fair share of sandal disappointments – from straps that cause blisters to soles that wear out after only a few uses. While I adore my Dr Martens Blaire Sandals from a fashion perspective, they’re not cut out for long-distance walking.
Determined to sidestep another sandal catastrophe, this time around, I was on the hunt for a pair that would prioritise comfort and durability while still looking stylish. That’s when I stumbled upon the Women’s Speed Fusion Web Sport from Merrell.
The American brand is renowned for its high-performance hiking boots and walking trainers, but they’ve truly outdone themselves with these sandals. I recently wore mine for the first time to walk 10,000 steps around a local wildlife park, and I must have said ‘These are the most comfortable things I’ve ever put on my feet’ about 100 times in six hours.
Retailing at £80, the sandals are available in women’s sizes 3-9 and men’s sizes 6-13. They come in three stylish and versatile colours – oyster, mauve, and black, according to the Mirror.
The sandals have a somewhat athletic look about them, with a modern outsole, fresh aesthetic, and simple straps for the perfect mix of modern, sporty sandals that leans into the clean girl aesthetic’.
From the very first wear, they were incredibly comfortable with no rubbing or blisters. The FloatMax Foam integrated insole was incredibly cushioned and spongy, and felt like I was walking on a cloud all day.
The design is not only stylish but also highly functional. I love the adjustability of the Velcro straps and toggles, which allows for a perfect fit. The hook and loop closure system is quick and easy to use, and the secure fit made walking on various terrains a breeze.
In total, I’d walked over 10,000 steps over the course of the day and was amazed that they’d not even caused any redness, let alone blisters, despite having really been put through their paces.
The sandals have racked up dozens of five star reviews from shoppers, with many hailing them the ‘most comfortable’ pair they’ve ever owned. One said: “I bought a pair of Merrell sandals over 12 years ago and love them. Wore them on many places including several trips to Costa Rica. They were by far the most comfortable sandals I had ever had, and they were pretty too – green and had little designs in the straps.”
“I had so many compliments on them. The rescue dog destroyed them two years ago (still love her) and I searched for another just like them. Merrell no longer had the toe strap sandal that I had, but they did have these ones and in green. I ordered them and wow, same great fit and comfort, I can wear them anywhere. I love Merrell sandals.”
Another enthused: “I bought these a couple of months ago and absolutely adore them. I have at least 50+ miles on them and they’re my favourite shoes I’ve ever had. My first time wearing them, I did rub a blister on only one toe on one foot- but I walked about 6 miles the first wear. So, that was my fault- but something to be aware of in breaking them in. I have had no issues since.”
Some people have found them unsuitable for their feet. One said: “Unfortunately, the plastic triangular piece that holds the straps together on the outer side of the sandals digs into the bottom side of my ankle bone. I end up with an open cut after about 1/2 mile of walking. It’s probably more about my foot than the sandal, but I can’t wear them, but also didn’t figure this out until I DID wear them on a trip. My husband has the same sandal and does not have this issue. We love that these sandals float!”
But they’ve generally got glowing reviews, with another commenting: “These are excellent sandals. Took them to Sardinia, Italy to do some hiking, lots of walking, and even getting in the ocean. Great on my feet, no rubbing, and very comfortable. Would purchase again.”
“These are amazing. They are exactly what I was looking for, which was a sandal I could speed walk in during the summer,” penned a fifth. “I can’t handle wearing closed-toe shoes in the summer as they’re too hot! These are amazing, comfortable, and can handle the stress I put on them during my speed walks. Highly recommend.”
Personally, I couldn’t be more impressed with my Merrells. And because of their minimalistic appearance, they’re versatile enough to pair with almost any outfit, making them a fantastic addition to my summer wardrobe.
Elsewhere FitFlop has these Water-Resistant Adjustable Walking Sandals. They cost £90 and come in black, cream, blush pink and mint blue. Elsewhere, Teva’s original universal sandals in black & grey are currently £31.99 in the sale at Schuh. Or you can buy my exact Merrell sandals here.
