Here are the best sandals with built‑in biomechanical (orthotic-style) support — short list, why they help, who they’re best for, and buying notes for Australia.

Top picks

• Vionic (e.g., Tide II, Islander, Terra)

  • Why: Podotherapist-designed contoured footbeds with a pronounced arch, deep heel cup and VioMotion alignment tech; APMA recognition and clinical data supporting relief for heel pain/plantar fasciitis. Best for: plantar‑fasciitis sufferers, people who need firm arch support in everyday styles. Price range (AU): ~AUD 80–170. (au.vionicshoes.com.au)

• Birkenstock (e.g., Arizona, Unisex cork‑footbed styles)

  • Why: Classic cork‑latex contoured footbed that molds to the foot over time with strong arch support, deep heel cup and stable platform. Best for: people who want durable, long‑lasting supportive sandals and those who prefer a firmer, natural‑material footbed. Widely available in Australia. (acehealthcare.com.au)

• OOFOS (OOriginal, OOlala, Recovery footwear)

  • Why: Proprietary OOfoam absorbs impact and returns less stress to joints; contoured footbed supports arches and cushions heel strike — popular for recovery and plantar‑fasciitis relief. Best for: those wanting max shock absorption and a soft ride for tired/achy feet. (health.com)

• Skechers Arch Fit sandals (and slip‑on styles)

  • Why: Skechers’ Arch Fit line uses podiatrist‑designed removable footbeds and certified arch support for stability and pressure distribution. Best for: budget‑minded buyers who still need validated arch support and removable insoles for custom orthotics. (realsimple.com)

• Naot

  • Why: Cork and latex footbeds with multi‑layer cushioning that form to the foot, good arch shaping and roomy toe boxes; many styles are designed with podiatric principles. Best for: long walks and those who want a more “moulded-to-you” cork feel. (acehealthcare.com.au)

• KEEN (Newport H2, Clearwater, Hoodzerra)

  • Why: Sport/outdoor sandals with supportive insoles, roomy toe protection, and stable midsoles — good biomechanics for hiking and water use. Best for: outdoor activities where toe protection and secure fit matter. (acehealthcare.com.au)

• Aetrex / Lynco

  • Why: Engineered arch support and removable/replaceable Lynco footbeds for those who need firm, structured arch support. Best for: people who want a podiatrist‑level built‑in option with the ability to swap in custom orthotics. (highettpodiatry.com.au)

Other notable supportive options

• Hoka recovery slides (Ora Recovery Slide) — excellent shock absorption and a plush, stable platform for heel relief. (health.com)
• Teva Tirra / Teva supportive sandals — adjustable straps + contoured footbeds for everyday support and stability. (health.com)
• Revitalign / ProTalus / Dansko — have specific orthopedic features and are often recommended by podiatrists (varies by model). (realsimple.com)

How to choose the right supportive sandal

• Match arch height to your foot: low, medium or high arches need different contours. Brands often list arch profile. (health.com)
• Look for a deep heel cup and slight heel‑to‑toe drop (not a flat slipper) — this helps align the foot and reduce strain. (health.com)
• Removable footbeds are useful if you need to insert custom orthotics. (highettpodiatry.com.au)
• Materials matter: cork/latex molds to the foot (Birkenstock, Naot); EVA/foam offers shock absorption (OOFOS, Hoka, Vionic EVA midsoles). (acehealthcare.com.au)
• Try before you commit (or buy from retailers in AU with easy returns). Walk 5–10 minutes indoors to see how heel/arch feel — many supportive footbeds take a few days to feel normal.

Availability and buying in Australia

• Vionic, Birkenstock, Naot, KEEN, Skechers, OOFOS and Hoka are sold in Australia through brand sites, specialty retailers and multi‑brand stores; prices and stock vary by model and season. Look for Australian websites/stockists to avoid international shipping and returns. (au.vionicshoes.com.au)

If you want, I can:

• Narrow this to “best for plantar fasciitis,” “best for wide feet,” or “best for outdoor/hiking” and list 3–4 exact models with price/where to buy in Australia (I’ll check current Australian retailers/stock).