The most comfortable sandals really are the foundation of all your summer outfits, but the annual sandal search can feel like finding the Holy Grail. We've all been there - investing in a really pretty pair, only to find that you can't walk to the end of your drive without hobbling, then having to hop to your nearest pharmacy for a packet of plasters.
Price: RRP £75
Size Range: UK 3-10
Colours: Tan or black
Material: Leather upper, rubber sole
Fastening: Velcro strap
Comfortable sandals don't necessarily have to mean chunky, orthopaedic styles. I have to admit, I love the look of flatform flip-flops or hiking sandals on other people, they just don't quite suit my style. Enter the Sorel Women's Ella III Ankle Strap Flat Sandal.
What first drew me to this style was the designer lookalike H shape at the front. I've got a few pairs of backless sandals like this, but I wanted a pair that stayed on and were better for walking when sightseeing on holiday, or commuting in the morning.
With a supportive velcro-fastened strap, the Ella III sandals ticked that off my list, plus the design is sleeker and subtle. In deep tan leather, they'll work with everything in my summer capsule wardrobe, but do they pass the comfort test? Read on to find out...
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Sorel Women's Ella III Ankle Strap Flat Sandal: comfort & support
First things first, the leather did feel a little inflexible at the front of the foot initially, but I wore them around the house for a few hours before venturing out, and then I was totally confident enough to wear them for a busy day and a commute. Thankfully, the leather softened up quickly.
The rubber sole is ideal for what I was looking for, but it's not super bouncy. There's no arch support, but there's a nicely cushioned footbed. As you'd expect from Sorel, the cleated sole is definitely grippy enough for different surfaces, although hopefully that isn't snow at this time of year!
I'm much more used to backless mule-style sandals, but I loved the secure feeling of the ankle strap, which is adjustable with a hook and loop closure so you can find your perfect fit. It's a tiny detail, but personally, I love that the metal detailing is gold. At least on the tan version it is!
For me, there's been no rubbing on that really sensitive bit just below your ankle, which I why I so often avoid sandals with an ankle strap.
However, I would say these are most suitable for a narrower foot. They are quite snug on me, and I think anyone with wide feet might find them a little on the tight side. I ordered my normal size, which fit perfectly.
They're really lightweight, so at the end of a day of walking around in a heatwave, I didn't find myself desperate to get home and take them off. They'd take up very little room if you were packing them in your suitcase for a holiday, too.
Sorel Women's Ella III Ankle Strap Flat Sandal: style
These come really nicely packaged, and my first impression was how well-made the sandals are. The leather and stitching are of really impressive quality.
Style-wise, these are a sturdy pair of shoes that offer a much sleeker silhouette than similar options on the market. They're an everyday design - one that you'll rely on for teaming with your best summer dresses, whatever the occasion.
I wasn't sure I'd love the velcro strap, but it's barely noticeable and actually very practical for getting them on and off!
Sorel Women's Ella III Ankle Strap Flat Sandal: cleaning & care
Typical me, I got a little make-up mark on these shortly after I put them on. They easily wipe clean, and I imagine there's nothing a bit of leather shoe cleaner wouldn't take care of. They're much more practical than suede or cork styles, I'd say.
Sorel Women's Ella III Ankle Strap Flat Sandal: verdict
My verdict summed up in one sentence? I'm already considering buying them in black, too.
These are a really versatile shoe that won't date thanks to the clean lines and timeless design. Most importantly, they're really comfortable. It's rare I don't get a blister or two with a new pair of shoes, but so far, so good.
For me, the biggest selling point is the slim silhouette, so if some of the chunky sandals out there at the moment aren't for you, these are a great option.
