Nice — here are tried‑and‑true casual sandals that balance cushioning and style, picked for availability in Australia and different foot/style needs. For each I note why it’s a good choice, who it suits, typical price range, and where to buy.
Top picks
- REEF Cushion Bounce / Cushion Vista (slides & thongs)
- Why: Very soft, rebound EVA footbed with anatomical arch contouring and heel cup — comfortable for all‑day wear while looking casual-chic.
- Best for: beach days, everyday wear, people who want immediate plush cushioning.
- Price: ~AU$50–$80.
- Where to buy (Australia): many local retailers and surf stores stock REEF Cushion styles. (thongon.com.au)
- Birkenstock Arizona / Gizeh (cork contoured footbed)
- Why: Classic contoured cork footbed that molds to your foot over time for long‑term support and a minimalist, versatile look. Great if you want structured support plus style.
- Best for: people wanting firm arch support and a timeless aesthetic.
- Price: typically AU$120–$200 (varies by material).
- Where to buy (Australia): The Iconic, department stores and specialty retailers; frequently included in seasonal sales. (getprice.com.au)
- ECCO Yucatan / Offroad Yucatan (sporty, tech cushioning)
- Why: Technical midsole (Fluidform™ + Receptor® tech), soft microfiber/EVA footbed and neoprene lining — combines good cushioning, stability and a more refined sporty look. Durable and excellent for walkability.
- Best for: lots of walking, uneven ground, people who want performance + style.
- Price: ~AU$180–$250.
- Where to buy (Australia): ECCO Australia and local footwear shops. (au.ECCO.com)
- FitFlop (Lulu, F‑Mode and other Microwobbleboard styles)
- Why: Triple‑density “Microwobbleboard” midsoles designed to diffuse pressure and feel very cushioned; many styles that bridge casual and dressy. Often described as “walking on clouds.”
- Best for: commuters or city wearers who want ergonomics plus fashion-forward designs.
- Price: ~AU$100–$180.
- Where to buy (Australia): Big W, MyDeal, department stores and online retailers. (bigw.com.au)
- Teva (Hurricane / Midform or Universal slides)
- Why: Rugged, adjustable straps with cushioned EVA footbeds; reliable traction and quick‑dry materials. Good blend of outdoorsy utility and casual style.
- Best for: anyone who wants adjustable fit, practical cushioning and a sporty look.
- Price: ~AU$60–$140.
- (Availability widely at outdoor and sneaker stores in Australia.) (news.com.au)
- Adidas / Nike foam slides (Cloudfoam, Asuna, Adilette variants)
- Why: Sporty slides with thick, soft foam footbeds (Cloudfoam, molded EVA) that give simple, stylish cushioning for quick errands and travel. Often lighter and more flexible than cork styles.
- Best for: minimalist casual looks and travel/airport comfort.
- Price: ~AU$40–$120.
- Where to buy: brand stores and major retailers in Australia. (luxe.digital)
Quick buying tips
- Try for fit and arch support: if you need firm arch support (plantar fasciitis, overpronation), Birkenstock or ECCO are safer; for plush cushioning straight away, REEF, FitFlop or foam slides are better. (thongon.com.au)
- Size note: some cork/contour styles feel snug at first and “bed in” (Birkenstock), while foam/slide styles usually fit true to size. (self.com)
- Where to buy: The Iconic, Myer, department and surf/outdoor stores plus brand sites and local Australian retailers above stock most of these lines. Look for free returns so you can try at home. (getprice.com.au)
If you want, I can:
- Narrow these to just “dressier” or “beach/day‑to‑day” picks, or
- Pull current links and live prices from Australian retailers (I can search specific stores and sizes).