To recap, low volume feet are narrower in width with low arches and insteps, and sans bunions. The flatness, the narrow width across the toes, and a low instep reduces the surface area of your foot and means that a slimmer fit shoe works better. You don’t necessarily need a narrow size in footwear, but you definitely need an extra snug fit on a sandal so that your feet don’t fall through the front of the toe box, causing your toes to chafe the ground as you stride. You also need a tighter fit on the vamp so that your insteps aren’t swimming in the sandal.
Sandals are hard to fit on low volume feet because most styles require “filling out” in order for them to feel comfy and look good. In most cases you can’t add insoles to sandals, or wear socks to create a better fit. You have to find a tailored fit. It’s hard, but it can be done.
If you have low volume feet, here are five tips to keep in mind when shopping for sandals:
- Sizing down half a size helps to create an allround sandal fit that is more snug.
- Choose styles with more vamp coverage, smaller peep-toes, and ankle straps, because these design details help to secure the sandal onto your foot, and prevent your toes from sliding through the front.
- Choose styles with adjustable straps so that you can tighten them to create a better fit. Take sandals to the cobbler to have the straps shortened if they flap about and look too long.
- Choose sandals with closed toes and open backs, like slingbacks or ankle strap pumps and flats.
- Sometimes you’ll need to purchase sandals in a narrow size. Look out for styles that have this option.
Here are fourteen comfortable styles that have worked for my clients, and on my own low volume feet. In most cases we sized down half a size to get a better fit. Look through all the colour options:
- Stuart Weitzman Caesar Gladiator Sandal: Pricey but beautifully made and extremely refined. This is THE best dressy gladiator for low volume feet I’ve seen this season. The elastic on the ankle straps provides extra comfort, and the leather is soft. The toe box is narrow, and you don’t need to size down for a better fit. An easy pull-on-and-go with side zipper. The straps are not adjustable, and the ankle fit is tight, so it’s an excellent style for small ankles. Also available in black, tan and white. If I wore sandals regularly, I would be investing in these. The style has a high longevity factor, and gladiators are versatile.
- Steve Madden Plato Sandal: At a fraction of the price of the Stuart Weitzmans, they’re a pretty good fit for low volume feet. Casual and fashionable. Adjustable ankle straps and soft leather. Size down half a size. Also available in black and animal print.
- Sam Edelman Sabrina Wedge Sandal: Extremely soft leather, a cushioning footbed, and surprisingly comfy despite the higher heel. I was flabbergasted at how well these fit my feet.
- Sofft Bernia Sandal: Not a bad fit if you size down, but not as snug a fit. Very soft and cushioning though. Read the rave reviews.
- Paul Green Trisha Sandal: Super comfy with ample coverage and a nice tailored fit.
- Tory Burch Savannah Wedge Sandal: The foiled gold leather is unique. I did feel a little wobbly in this sandal, and not 100% secure when I walked fast. But if you’re not a fast walker this might be the pair for you.
- Julianne Hough for Sole Society Olyvia Pointed Toe Pump: I have these and couldn’t be happier with them. Super soft, low-heeled, versatile and very comfy. Fit my low volume foot perfectly, and there was no need to size down half a size. This is my type of “sandal” because I like to wear closed toe shoes.
- Vince Camuto Effel Sandal: This works pretty well for a low volume foot because there is lots of coverage and the peep-toe is quite small. Not perfect, but not bad at all.
- Bella Vita Wilder 11 Sandal: Stretchy, cushioning, comfy and must be worn in a narrow size in order to fit.
- Munro Libra Sandal: An extra comfy on trend Birkenstock look in an assortment of colours. Must be ordered in a narrow width. The adjustable velcro strap helps to create structure on a low instep.
- David Tate Easy Sandal: A versatile casual metallic espadrille wedge. Must be ordered in a narrow width.
- Amalfi by Rangoni Rovigo Sandal: Refined, dressier and different. Great in an AA width for extra low volume feet.
- Naturalizer Jansin Sandal: Casual, versatile and very soft. Order a narrow width for a good fit.
- Kenneth Cole Havemeyer Leather Sandal: An on trend sandal with a snug toe box and dear little low gold heel. I did find that the edge of the vamp cut into my ankle as I walked, but I do have very fussy feet. It might be fine for you. I was surprised at how well this sandal fits a low volume foot.
- Clarks Evant Portman T-Strap Sandal: A pretty good fit allround and quite supportive. Very cushioning and sufficiently dressy for a casual office.
- Louise et Cie Apolla Leather Gladiator Sandal: Beautifully refined, dressy and modern classic. Fab gold hardware. These are my next favourite after the Stuart Weitzmans.
- Louise et Cie Oroyo Wedge Sandal: Fashionable and a pretty good fit. Still a little roomy on the toes but not bad at all. The ankle strap offers some structure. Also available in gold and tan.
Although I haven’t fitted on any Salvatore Ferragamo sandals this season, they are usually a good match for low volume feet. They are pricey, but you can find them on sale from time to time. If you have further sandal recommendations for low volume feet, I’m all ears.
