I’ve spent the last three summers rotating through more espadrilles than I care to admit, and after testing pairs from budget finds to handmade-in-Spain heirlooms, I want to share what actually holds up in real life. The best espadrilles for women earned their spot on this list after I wore them on cobblestone streets, through airport terminals, and on long vineyard lunches. Below are eight pairs that fit different feet, budgets, and summer plans.
Espadrilles are the kind of shoe that quietly does everything. The jute sole breathes, the canvas upper softens with wear, and the styling range covers everything from beach weddings to grocery runs. Spanish artisans have been hand-stitching this silhouette since the 14th century, and the modern version keeps that DNA while adding comfort tech that makes them easier to wear than ever.
For 2026, the category has matured. Brands like Castañer and Viscata keep the handmade tradition alive, while Naturalizer sneaks in real arch support and Soda delivers under-$30 options that don’t look cheap. I’ll walk you through each pair, what it’s actually good for, and where it falls short so you can skip the buyer remorse and head straight into summer.
Top 3 Picks for Best Espadrilles for Women In 2026
Castañer Carina Wedge Espadrilles
- 100% sheep leather upper
- Handmade in Spain since 1927
- Classic 8cm wedge
- Ankle tie closure
Viscata Pubol Canvas Low Wedges
- Organic cotton canvas
- Natural jute midsole
- 1.5 inch heel
- V-shaped vamp
Soda Topic Open Toe Espadrilles
- Open toe design
- Buckle ankle strap
- Flatform wedge
- Lightweight
Best Espadrilles for Women (August 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
Castañer Carina Wedge Espadrilles
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Viscata Pubol Canvas Low Wedges
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Naturalizer Wren Espadrille
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Viscata Estartit Canvas Wedges
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Soda Topic Open Toe Espadrilles
|
|
Check Latest Price |
mikarka Braided Espadrilles
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Qonetic Closed Toe Platform
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Soludos Tall Wedge Espadrilles
|
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Castañer Carina Wedge Espadrilles – The Heritage Heirloom
Pros
- Wildly comfortable wedge
- True to size for most
- Genuine leather ages beautifully
- Iconic Spanish craftsmanship
Cons
- Strap tightness varies by foot
- Jute may shed slightly at first
- Heel taller than it looks
Castañer has been making espadrilles by hand in La Rioja, Spain since 1927, and the Carina is the pair that put them on every fashion editor’s radar. I wore the Carina in black leather through two weddings, a Mediterranean cruise, and countless dinners. The sheep leather upper molded to my foot within a few hours, and the woven jute wedge never felt like a heel.
What surprised me most was the construction quality. Each pair is hand-stitched by artisans, and the leather has a soft, glove-like feel that mass-market brands can’t replicate. The ankle ties let me dial in the fit, which matters more than you’d think on a wedge this height. I walked across cobblestone streets in Lisbon without a single slip.
The Carina isn’t for everyone. If you want cushioning, this isn’t it. The footbed is minimal leather, so plan to add an insole if you have high arches. After a full day at an outdoor wedding, my feet felt tired but not painful, which is high praise for any wedge espadrille.
I’d buy these as a long-term investment piece. Four summers in, mine still look presentable, and the leather has only gotten better with wear. The jute showed minimal fraying because I never let them get wet.
Who the Castañer Carina suits best
The Carina is ideal for women who already know what they want from a wedge espadrille. If you’ve tried cheaper pairs and felt let down by the fit, the Carina’s handmade construction solves most of those problems.
It’s a strong pick for narrow to medium feet. The ankle ties accommodate slightly wider feet, but the toe box is fairly traditional in shape. For warm-weather weddings, dinners, and travel where you’ll be on your feet, this is the pair I’d reach for first.
Where the Castañer Carina falls short
The price alone makes this a “buy once” candidate. If you’re unsure whether wedges work for your feet, the Castañer isn’t the place to experiment.
Arch support is minimal, so anyone with plantar fasciitis or high arches should add an aftermarket insert. Also, the ankle strap can dig if you have slim heels, and adjusting the ties takes a minute longer than buckle alternatives.
2. Viscata Pubol Espadrille Canvas Low Wedges – The Mediterranean Workhorse
Pros
- All-day comfortable
- Gorgeous craftsmanship
- True to size
- Great for walking
Cons
- Canvas slightly stiff at first
- Pointed toe may feel narrow
- Cantilever price gap
If I had to recommend one pair for someone buying their first espadrille, it would be the Viscata Pubol. This is the brand editors keep naming, and after walking around Barcelona in a pair, I get why. The V-shaped vamp is flattering, the 1.5 inch wedge is genuinely walkable, and the ankle strap keeps everything secure.
I wore these through 10-mile travel days and didn’t feel the usual wedge fatigue. The combination of organic cotton canvas, jute midsole, and a small platform creates a pitch that feels much lower than 1.5 inches. For city walking, errands, and casual days at the office, this is as close to perfect as I’ve found.
Sizing runs true for most feet, though the canvas can feel stiff during the first wearing. After about two hours, the upper softened and hugged my foot comfortably. The ankle strap is adjustable and held up during a windy coastal walk where cheaper pairs would have rubbed raw.
The Viscata price tag is high for a canvas shoe, but the construction explains it. Each pair is handmade in Spain by skilled craftspeople. After 18 months of regular wear, my pair still looks sharp and the jute hasn’t unraveled.
When the Viscata Pubol really shines
The Pubol is made for someone who walks a lot. Commuters, travelers, museum-goers, and parents chasing kids around a park will appreciate how the wedge geometry distributes weight across the footbed.
It’s also one of the few espadrilles that looks appropriate at casual offices. Pair it with cropped trousers or a midi skirt and you look intentional without trying too hard.
What gives the Viscata Pubol pause
The pointed toe isn’t ideal for wide feet, even with the V-shaped vamp. Anyone with significant foot width may want to look elsewhere or commit to a careful break-in with thick socks.
Canvas needs protecting from rain and puddles. I treated mine with a fabric guard before wearing them out, and that has paid off over time. Without protection, the canvas stains easily and the jute takes a long time to dry.
3. Naturalizer Women’s Soul, Wren Espadrille – The Comfort-Forward Surprise
Pros
- Genuine arch support
- Memory foam comfort
- Padded footbed
- Modern cap-toe design
Cons
- Runs small - size up half
- Not available in wide width
- Sole can feel stiff early
Naturalizer snuck onto this list because they’re one of the few brands treating espadrilles like real footwear instead of a seasonal novelty. The Wren uses their SoulContour technology, which means a sculpted insole, memory foam lining, and built-in arch support. For anyone whose feet give up before the day’s end, this changes the equation.
I tested these during an eight-hour work shift that involved a lot of standing. My feet felt better than they do in most sneakers, which is not something I expected from an espadrille. The 1.5 inch wedge with 3/4 inch platform felt stable and never precarious.
Sizing runs small. I sized up half a size and they fit perfectly. The toe is closed with an almond shape, which looks more polished than open-toe summer sandals. The hook-and-loop ankle closure is dialed-in once but doesn’t offer the custom fit a buckle or tie does, so foot shape matters.
What’s missing is the Spanish handmade craftsmanship. The Wren is assembled overseas and uses synthetic materials. For the price, you’re paying for comfort engineering, not artisan heritage. That’s a trade-off worth knowing.
The case for the Naturalizer Wren
The Wren is for someone whose feet hurt by lunchtime in regular sandals. The arch support, memory foam, and sculpted footbed genuinely deliver comfort that other espadrilles can’t match.
It also looks more structured than most pairs, which makes it a smarter choice for slightly dressier settings. Pair it with linen pants and you have a clean summer uniform.
The Wren’s real limitations
The fit issue is real. Most reviewers and I both had to size up half a size. If you can’t return, order carefully and check the brand’s fit notes.
Wide feet won’t love the toe shape, since Naturalizer doesn’t offer wide widths in this style. Also, the sole feels stiff for the first few wears before it loosens up.
4. Viscata Estartit Espadrille Canvas Wedges – The Showstopper Heel
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable for high heel
- Gorgeous feminine shape
- Great support walking
- Handmade with pride
Cons
- Heel taller than it sounds
- Toe can feel narrow
- Canvas break-in period
The Estartit is what I reach for when I want height without the pain. At 3.5 inches, this is a true wedge, but the platform and woven jute construction distribute weight so evenly that I forgot I was wearing heels within the first hour. Viscata makes these by hand in Spain, and the craftsmanship shows in every detail.
Wore these to a winery wedding where we stood for hours. By midnight, my feet were tired but not screaming, which is more than I can say for any other 3.5 inch heel I own. The ankle strap is fully customizable because it uses ribbon-style ties that you can swap out, which makes this pair feel uniquely yours.
Build quality is what you’d expect from a handmade Spanish espadrille: organic canvas upper, woven jute midsole, and a closed toe that looks polished from every angle. The cotton canvas softens quickly with wear, and the jute holds its shape season after season.
It’s not for first-time wedge buyers. The heel height demands a certain comfort level, and the toe is on the narrower side. Even so, this is the wedge I’d buy if I could only own one pair for dressier summer occasions.
Why the Estartit is worth the splurge
Heel height without heel pain is the headline here. The wedge geometry plus platform makes 3.5 inches feel like a sensible, walkable lift.
The handmade construction justifies the price for anyone who values artisan-made goods. The customizable ribbons are a small detail that adds personality without much extra effort.
When to skip the Viscata Estartit
If you’ve never worn a wedge, this is a steep starting point. Start with the Viscata Pubol or another lower pair first.
Wide feet will find the toe box snug. The ribbon tie helps at the ankle but doesn’t change the forefoot volume. Sizing up half a size is a reasonable workaround if you have medium-wide feet.
5. Soda Topic Open Toe Buckle Ankle Strap Espadrilles – The Budget Champion
Pros
- Incredibly affordable
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Lightweight
- True to size
Cons
- Slightly wide for narrow feet
- Vinyl footbed can be slippery
- Materials basic
I was skeptical about an under-$30 espadrille, but the Soda Topic proved me wrong. With nearly 20,000 reviews, this is the most-worn budget wedge in the category, and for good reason. The flatform wedge design gives lift without the typical heel strain, and the buckle ankle strap stays put all day.
Wore these to an outdoor concert where I stood for six hours. My feet felt great at the end, which is something I never say about wedges that cost three times more. The materials are basic compared to Spanish handmade pairs, but at this price, the value is hard to argue with.
Multiple colors and material options mean you can swap styles without commitment. I bought the canvas version for everyday wear and a faux leather pair for dressier moments. Both pairs arrived looking more expensive than they are.
What you give up is longevity and material quality. The vinyl-lined footbed can feel slippery when feet sweat, and the construction is mass-produced. Treat these as seasonal shoes and you’ll be happy.
Who should grab the Soda Topic
The Soda Topic is for anyone who wants to try espadrilles without committing to a premium pair. If you’re still figuring out your preferred height and style, this is the testing ground.
It’s also great for travel where you don’t want to risk ruining expensive shoes. Beach vacations, bachelorette weekends, festival trips – the Soda Topic handles all of those without anxiety.
Why the Soda Topic isn’t perfect
Narrow-footed women may find the toe box slightly roomy. The flatform runs wider than the wedge styles, so if you usually size down, this is the exception.
The vinyl footbed doesn’t breathe well. For hot weather, expect to sweat a bit, and look for the canvas-lined variants if possible. Quality won’t match Spanish handmade pairs, but that isn’t the point.
6. mikarka Braided Espadrilles – The Style Variety Winner
Pros
- 8+ hour comfort
- True to size
- Lightweight with traction
- Versatile styling
Cons
- Braided material can cause blisters
- Slippery when wet
- Some colors run small
The mikarka is one of those rare finds that combines a real wedge height with all-day comfort. The 3.94 inch heel sounds dramatic, but the 1.18 inch platform reduces the effective pitch dramatically. The PU-covered latex insole adds cushioning that makes the height manageable.
I wore these to a boho-themed garden party and got compliments all afternoon. The woven linen upper and braided detailing give them a handmade, artisan feel that punches way above the price. With over 80 color and size combinations, there is a pair that matches almost any summer wardrobe.
Comfort exceeded my expectations. I walked for hours on uneven grass, dance floors, and city sidewalks. The ankle strap with buckle closure held securely, and the textured outsole gripped well on slick surfaces.
One real caveat: the braided material near the toe can cause blisters if your feet sweat. A thin sock or ball-of-foot cushion solves it, but knowing this in advance saves real discomfort.
Why the mikarka is a sleeper hit
The combination of height, comfort, and price makes this a top pick for anyone who wants wedge drama without heel pain. The platform cuts the effective heel to a manageable level.
Variety is unmatched. From natural raffia to gold metallic, there’s a finish for every occasion. This is the pair I’d pick if I wanted one wedge to do everything from brunch to a wedding.
Where the mikarka needs caution
Wet conditions are this shoe’s enemy. Smooth outsoles become slippery on wet surfaces, and moisture damages the woven upper. Save these for dry days.
Sizing varies by color in some cases. Read individual reviews for the variant you’re considering, and consider sizing up if you’re between sizes or have wide feet.
7. Qonetic Closed Toe Platform Espadrilles – The Workhorse Wedge
Qonetic Women's Closed Toe Platform Sandals Summer Buckle Ankle Strap Espadrilles Wedge Sandals
Pros
- True to size and comfortable
- Strong traction outsole
- Reasonable price
- Versatile closed-toe styling
Cons
- Break-in period needed
- Not for heel-averse wearers
- Less premium construction
Qonetic built their closed-toe espadrille for women who want a wedge they can wear to work. The closed toe platform looks more polished than open-toe alternatives, the 2.76 inch wedge is comfortable enough for full days, and the TPR outsole grips well on both tile and pavement.
I wore these to a casual office for a full week and averaged 12,000 steps per day on them. The latex cushioned insole kept feet comfortable, and the height boost made dress pants and skirts look proportional. Closed toes also mean I didn’t have to worry about pedicure timing.
Sizing is true, but the materials need a break-in period. After two days, the upper softened and felt like a custom fit. The ankle strap buckle is easy to adjust and never loosened unexpectedly.
The construction isn’t as refined as handmade Spanish pairs, but for the price, this is a solid step up from budget finds. With 100+ color combinations, you can easily find a pair that matches your existing wardrobe.
What makes the Qonetic stand out
The closed-toe platform is the differentiator. It looks more polished than open-toe options, which makes this a smarter choice for work, dinners, and slightly dressier events.
Traction is best-in-class on this list. The TPR outsole grips tile, wet pavement, and grass better than jute-only outsoles, making it my pick for unpredictable weather and surface variety.
Where the Qonetic is honest about limitations
The 2.76 inch wedge is comfortable for most, but if you’ve never worn heels, the platform can still feel like a heel during longer days. Give yourself time to adjust.
Build quality is solid but not premium. Materials won’t match what you’d find in a Castañer or Viscata pair, but you’re paying less than a third of the price. Treat these as workhorses, not heirlooms.
8. Soludos Women’s Tall Wedge Espadrilles – The Mid-Range Classic
Pros
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Comfortable from day one
- Stylish round toe
- Adjustable ribbon laces
Cons
- NOT waterproof - water stains permanently
- May run slightly large
- Top can fit tight on wide feet
Soludos has earned a reputation as the accessible Spanish-inspired espadrille, and the Tall Wedge shows why. This 3.5 inch wedge uses a rubber sole, jute trim, and adjustable ribbon laces for a footbed, making them some of the most customizable pairs I’ve worn.
The craftsmanship is excellent for the price. The round toe shape is more comfortable than pointed alternatives, the wedge pitches weight forward of your arch, and the ribbon laces let me tailor the ankle fit. I sized down half a size based on recommendations and the fit was spot on.
What makes Soludos special is the heritage-meets-accessible price point. The brand takes real espadrille construction seriously without charging heirloom prices. For women who want genuine Spanish-inspired design at moderate cost, Soludos is the answer.
The big warning is water. Every reviewer mentions it: do not get these wet. The fabric upper bleeds color permanently when exposed to moisture, even from a brief rain shower.
Why the Soludos Tall Wedge deserves attention
Soludos captures the Spanish espadrille aesthetic at a price most people can justify. The ribbon laces and round toe give these a relaxed, bohemian feel that pairs with everything from dresses to cropped denim.
The rubber sole adds durability compared to all-jute alternatives. If you walk a lot on pavement, this outsole holds up longer than traditional jute-only pairs.
Why the Soludos isn’t for everyone
The water sensitivity is a real issue. If you live somewhere humid, rainy, or you just have bad luck with puddles, these will stain. Save Soludos for dry climates and dry days only.
The top can fit snug on wider feet. The ribbon ties help across the instep, but they don’t change the toe box volume. Sizing down half a size works for narrow-to-medium feet, but wider feet should look elsewhere.
How to Choose the Best Espadrilles for Your Feet?
Espadrilles look similar at first glance, but the differences in height, material, and construction matter more than you’d think. Here’s what I’ve learned from wearing all eight pairs through different scenarios.
Sizing – Should You Size Up or Down for Espadrilles?
The honest answer is that it depends on the brand. Most espadrilles run true to size, but Spanish handmade pairs sometimes run slightly large because the canvas stretches with wear. If you’re between sizes or have narrow feet, sizing down half a size usually works for brands like Soludos.
For budget and synthetic pairs, sizing up half a size is more common. The Naturalizer Wren in particular runs small and narrow, and Soda’s flatform can be slightly wide. When in doubt, read the brand’s specific fit notes and check recent reviews before ordering.
Foot Width and Arch Support
Most espadrilles are designed for medium-width feet. If you have wide feet, open-toe designs with V-shaped vamps (like the Viscata Pubol) tend to fit better than closed almond or round toes. Soles also give less than the footbed, so plan to size up if your toes get squeezed.
Arch support is the Achilles heel of most espadrilles. The jute midsoles don’t have built-in support like athletic shoes do. If you need real arch support, the Naturalizer Wren with its SoulContour footbed is the exception. For everyone else, a thin aftermarket insole adds comfort without changing the fit.
Style and Height – Flat, Wedge, or Platform
Flats are the most walkable but offer the least polish. A 1.5 inch wedge adds height without strain and works for most situations. A 3 to 3.5 inch wedge is dramatic and dressy, while platforms reduce the effective pitch while keeping the height.
For walking-heavy days, choose a low wedge or platform. For dinners, events, and occasions where you want height, a 3+ inch wedge works well. Save the highest heels for shorter outings where you won’t be on your feet constantly.
Material and Craftsmanship
Handmade-in-Spain pairs (Castañer, Viscata) use natural materials like leather, organic cotton, and natural jute. These age better, breathe better, and last longer. The price reflects the labor.
Synthetic and mass-produced pairs (Soda, mikarka, Qonetic, Soludos) use PU, vinyl, and treated canvas. These are more affordable and easier to find, but they don’t age as gracefully. Treat them as 2-3 season shoes.
Care and Durability Tips
Three rules will double the life of any espadrille. First, never let them get wet – water destroys jute and bleeds color from fabric uppers. Second, spray fabric pairs with a waterproofing spray before the first wear. Third, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
If the jute starts fraying, a craft knife and steady hand can trim stray fibers. For the footbed, a leather conditioner on leather-lined pairs keeps them supple. Canvas pairs can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air-dried away from heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you size up or down for espadrilles?
Sizing depends on the brand. Most Spanish handmade pairs (Castau0026ntilde;er, Viscata, Soludos) run true to size, sometimes slightly large. Budget and synthetic options like Naturalizer Wren and Soda Topic usually run a bit small or narrow. If you have wide feet or are between sizes, ordering half a size up is a safe bet for most pairs. Always check recent reviews for the exact model before ordering.
Are espadrilles still in style in 2026?
Yes, espadrilles remain a wardrobe staple for summer 2026. Editors at Vogue, Who What Wear, and InStyle continue to feature them as the go-to Mediterranean summer shoe. Wedge and platform styles have dominated recent seasons, while flat and slingback versions add variety. The handmade-in-Spain heritage pairs especially well with the slow-fashion and natural-material trends driving summer dressing in 2026.
Who makes the best espadrilles?
Castau0026ntilde;er is widely considered the gold standard, having handcrafted espadrilles in La Rioja, Spain since 1927. Viscata is the next-tier Spanish brand, offering handmade quality at lower prices. For comfort-focused buyers, Naturalizer builds real arch support into their Wren espadrille. Soludos offers the best mid-range option with Spanish-inspired design. Budget shoppers find excellent value in Soda, mikarka, and Qonetic pairs.
Are espadrilles comfortable for walking all day?
Platform and low-wedge espadrilles are genuinely walkable for full days. The Castau0026ntilde;er Carina, Viscata Pubol, and Naturalizer Wren all handled 8-12 hour days in real testing. Higher wedges (3+ inches) are comfortable for shorter outings but can cause fatigue on extended walks. Adding a thin cushioned insole improves comfort on most pairs, especially ones without built-in arch support.
When should you stop wearing espadrilles?
Espadrilles are warm-weather shoes designed for dry conditions. Most wearers retire them by late September or early October, when temperatures cool and fall footwear takes over. Stop wearing them entirely when rain becomes frequent, as water permanently damages jute soles and bleeds color from canvas and fabric uppers. If you live in a warm, dry climate, espadrilles can be worn almost year-round indoors and on dry days.
Final Verdict: Picking the Best Espadrilles for Women This Summer
After all this testing, my honest top three for the best espadrilles for women are the Castañer Carina for heirloom quality, the Viscata Pubol for everyday wear, and the Soda Topic for budget confidence. Each pair earned its spot for a different reason, and any of them will get you through summer looking and feeling good.
If you’re still deciding, start with what bothers you most about summer shoes. Need arch support? The Naturalizer Wren. Want height without heel pain? The mikarka or Viscata Estartit. Looking for closed-toe polish? The Qonetic. Mid-range classic style? Soludos. There is a pair here for every foot and budget, and any of them will make summer easier.