It’s almost that time of year again! The days are longer, the sun is warmer, and the soul yearns for a much-needed getaway. When it comes to those summer vacations, finding the right pair of sandals are almost as vital as booking the perfect accommodations—if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking and sightseeing!

Whether it’s that go-to pair of walk-around sandals from Birkenstock or Mephisto, to something a little dressier for dinnertime from fashion-comfort brand Naya, there’s a pair of comfy, vacation-worthy sandals for everything on your summer itinerary!

Women's:
1. Naturalizer Archer, 2. Mephisto Helen, 3. Dr. Weil by Orthaheel Sonora Euro Strap,
4. Minnetonka Wilshire, 5. Rieker Regina, 6. Naya Fabiana

Men's:

7. Birkenstock Arizona Birkibuc™ (Unisex), 8. Haflinger Rueben, 9. Crocs MODI Flip

May is finally here, and that means the countdown to summer has officially begun! It’s time to start planning those beach trips and roadtrip vacations. We think it’s good to start from the ground up, as in starting with finding the perfect summer sandals first! Check out these comfy, tried-and-tested sandals straight from the Zappos Summer 2011 Catalog:

Clockwise:

1. Reef Macaronis: These are the perfect leather flip flops for the laid-back surfer dude. Easy, simple and effortless.

2. Mephisto Helen: A perennial favorite for travelers and casual weekend enthusiasts alike.

3. UGG Tasmina: The classic comfort of UGG done in a beach-worthy sandal.

4. Skechers Cyclers: The perfect blend of fashion and all-day comfort, these sandals are great for a day of strolling and shopping.

5. Havaianas Brasil: With its legendary style and durability, it’s really no wonder why Havaianas sandals have earned a cult following all over the world.

6. Clarks Stoli: These are the perfect sandals to live in all summer long. Perfect for the guy who loves clean, casual style.

Choosing a comfortable dress shoe can be a very difficult undertaking. There are many things to consider when selecting a comfortable dress shoe for both women and men. Familiarity with various brands and an understanding of the shape of your feet will go a long way in determining an ideal and comfortable dress shoe.

There are three foot shapes that a majority of the population has: flat foot, normal foot, and high arch.

Flat feet can be hereditary, or flat feet can develop over years of foot abuse. Shoes that fully support your arch and that have a firm heel counter are recommended for stability and strength. Women with flat feet should consider the Drew Lora . This shoe offers a removable insole that can be replaced with custom orthotic insoles prescribed by a doctor. Men should try the P.W. Minor 5th Avenue .

Those with normal feet can typically wear any comfort dress shoe without any major problems. Keep in mind that you still need to make sure that you have proper arch support and an excellent fit in order for a pair of comfortable dress shoes to be effective. Women should try a nice comfortable dress shoe such as the Easy Spirit Ilene . Men will find a superb comfortable dress shoe when they wear the Mephisto Squall .

Individuals with high arches have a lot of foot pain. Custom orthotic insoles are oftentimes used by individuals with high arches to alleviate pain. Those that have foot pain that is not severe enough to go see a specialist need to make sure they are wearing shoes with the right support and that have a great fit. Aetrex Sarah is a great comfortable dress shoe for women with high arches. The shoes have removable insoles, providing you with the ability to wear custom orthotics without wearing a shoe that screams “I’m orthotic.” Men should try the Drew Arlington .

Uncomfortable feet make for an uncomfortable life. Finding a great pair of comfortable dress shoes is very important.