From mules to slides, espadrilles to gladiators, platform sandals are undeniably the shoe of the summer. The height-boosting footwear is not only a welcome alternative to heels, it’s also beach-, gravel- and grass-friendly (perfect for wedding season!) and offers that extra bit of cushioning between our feet and the ground. 

This is not to say that all platforms are created equal. In fact, many chiropodists warn against them. Their rigid soles – though a blessing when pounding the pavement – can wreak havoc on weak ankles, rub heels raw and put excessive pressure on our bones. 

This is where FitFlop comes in. The brand’s designs make use of biomechanics to complement your body structure, joint alignment and natural movement. Its platforms also use Microwobbleboard™ tech: three levels of cushioning that diffuses underfoot pressure by increasing the contact area of the foot to the midsole. Even better, you’re getting style with your substance. FitFlop’s lineup includes everything from bold summer brights to throwback ’90s slides.

Ready for your comfiest summer yet? Click through for the five FitFlop platforms that we’ll have on rotation all summer long.

FitFlop Eloise Espadrille Wedge Sandals

Say hello to your go-to summer heels. The Eloise sandal certainly looks the part – these raffia, espadrille wedges scream G&Ts at sunset – and it’s cleverly designed for your comfort. The thick, wraparound leather straps offer your ankles extra support, while the super cushioned Microwobbleboard™ tech is enveloped by a firmer shell for stability. You can wear these all night and not feel it the next morning. We’ll be packing ours for weddings, holidays and big nights out.

FitFlop Eloise Espadrille Wedge Sandals, $, available at FitFlop

FitFlop Pilar Suede Mule Platforms

From that gorgeous cornflower blue to the ultra soft suede and the fact that we can finally sport a ’70s-style clog without beating up our feet, the Pilar is a certified statement. Unlike other hard and heavy clogs on the market, FitFlop’s are designed to be light. They also feature an ergonomic CushX™ midsole (soft cushioning inside a firmer shell) and a contoured top line to keep your feet aligned (yes, even in a heeled shoe).

FitFlop Pilar Suede Mule Platforms, $, available at FitFlop

FitFlop Eloise Espadrille Leather Wedge Slides

You know the platform slides from the early 2000s? Yeah, they were treacherous to walk in. If you weren’t getting cramp in your toes as you clung on for dear life, you were hoping not to roll your ankle. That won’t happen here. FitFlop’s Eloise Wedge Slides have the same Microwobbleboard™ tech for comfort and slip-resistant rubber for stability. One reviewer even says she walked six miles comfortably in these slides without breaking them in first!

FitFlop Eloise Espadrille Leather Wedge Slides, $, available at FitFlop

FitFlop Pilar Leather Mule Platforms

Buttery soft leather, chunky heels, all-day comfort – what’s not to like? We reckon even the staunchest clog critic can be swayed by FitFlop’s Pilar platforms.

FitFlop Pilar Leather Mule Platforms, $, available at FitFlop

FitFlop Pilar Suede-Mix Slide Platforms

Looking for a comfortable summer party shoe? These slide platforms are it. Make a statement in hot pink or cornflower blue and with mixed suede and leather straps. Even better, the buckle design is practical – you can tighten or loosen it depending on your desired fit.

FitFlop Pilar Suede-Mix Slide Platforms, $, available at FitFlop

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