The best slides and sandals in Melbourne

Looking for comfy classics, statement flatforms or a best-selling pair of Birkenstocks? These local Melbourne shoe shops have the best sandals and slides for spring.

Ballet flats for the modern era

Say goodbye to those little bows and cheap elastic for good. Today's ballet flat is chic, minimal and comfy enough to get you from dusk to dawn. We rate the casi myra from Camper, made from 20 per cent recycled materials. For proper ballerina-core slippers try Incu. You'll dance all night in styles from Ganni and Hereu.

Comfy customisable Crocs

Love them or hate them, these babies are as practical as they are divisive. Wear them backless, clog-style. Or flip the strap to the back to go into sports mode. Find the classic Crocs at Myer, then put your stamp on them with your fave jibbitz from General Pants.

Trending Birkenstock Boston clogs

Nothing goes better with your head-to-toe linen outfit than a pair of these comfy slip-ons. The classic Birk buckle is paired with full toe coverage and an expert-designed footbed. Try them in black leather, blue suede, shimmery copper and cosy shearling. Not sure where to start? The Birkenstock Boutique in St Collins Lane is a must-visit for Birk fans old and new.

The world’s comfiest heeled sandals

Originally founded by a podiatrist, Bared’s designs combine orthopaedic support with timeless style. The low-heeled Sisserou sandal is an eternal summer staple, available in white or tan. Or try one of the flat sandal styles in tan leather for a beach holiday vibe.

Melbourne-made flatforms

Don’t skip the stacked style this summer. Local brand Kuwaii has done it again with the new sisko platform sandal. With a chunky tread and a soft memory foam insole, they're made for warm days spent pounding the pavement. Nab a pair in a deep sangria red and complete your summer uniform.

Cool-girl Mary Janes

Equal parts edgy and sweet, Alpha60's Aya shoe is a new take on the Mary Jane. Slide into a fresh pair for that classic back-to-school vibe. Simple details like the leather piping, thick straps and stud closures up the cool-factor. For something more summery, go for a dainty pointed taupe style from Bared.

Athletic sandals for the city

This North Melbourne flat shoe mecca never misses. Radical Yes' range of Neptune sandals pair athletic velcro vibes with modern colourways – think bronze with a splash of neon. An easy trainer substitute for summer, the moulded footbed and padded arches feel like you're walking on a cloud.

Cult-status Japanese sandals

Branded the 'performance' sandal, Suicoke's diverse range of footwear will get you from A to B and back again all summer long. The signature Vibram soles are waterproof and lightweight for super comfy strolling. While the puffed up, utilitarian style adds a touch of cool to your look. Shop everything from the classics to the rare Missoni range at Incu.

Metallic leather slides

With super soft, eco-sourced leather and eye-catching colours, the spenn sandals from Elk are a breath of fresh air for your feet. A super comfy moulded footbed means you can wear them all day with ease, too. Get them in aloe green to add a pop of colour to your fit. Read up on their ethical production process before trying a pair in store.

Chunky pastel sandals

Follow the likes of Beyoncé and Lady Gaga to John Fluevog for a pair of shoes that demand the limelight. In a brand new store on Little Collins Street, you'll find cute-as-a-button styles like the neve sandal. Made in pastel green leather with terry cloth soles, the adjustable velcro straps easily accommodate a wider foot.