Why Australian women are swapping their “pretty but painful” sandals for this one pair
Flat soles, straps that rub, aching arches by 2pm. If that sounds like your summer, keep reading.
You find a pair of sandals you love. They look perfect in the shop. Then you wear them for a day out, and by lunchtime your arches ache, the straps have rubbed your skin raw and you’re counting the minutes until you can take them off.
So you go back to your trainers, even on the hottest day of the year. Or you buy the “comfort sandals” that feel fine but look like something your doctor prescribed.
It shouldn’t have to be a choice between sandals that look good and sandals you can actually walk in.
Why most sandals hurt
It isn’t your feet. It’s the way most sandals are made:
- Flat, thin soles give your arches nothing to rest on, so your feet work harder with every step.
- Hard, stiff straps rub against your skin until you get blisters.
- Straps you can’t adjust are too tight for some feet and too loose for others.
- Slippery soles make you walk carefully instead of confidently.
- Loose fits make your toes grip to keep the sandal on, which tires your feet out even faster.
A contoured cork footbed with arch support
Instead of a flat, thin sole, Hayleigh has a shaped cork footbed with natural arch support and a cushioned, leather-look insole. Your feet rest on a footbed that follows their shape, so you can walk further in comfort.
Soft braided straps that stay put
The artisan braided suede straps sit softly against your skin, with no hard edges that rub. A toe loop keeps the sandal securely in place, so your toes never have to grip to keep it on.
A fit made for your feet
The adjustable gold buckle lets you set the fit exactly right, whether your feet are narrow, wide or a little swollen after a long day. And the non-slip rubber sole keeps you steady on tiles, decking, wet pavement and sandy paths.
Most sandals vs. Hayleigh
| Most sandals | Hayleigh | |
|---|---|---|
| Footbed | Flat, thin sole with no support | Contoured cork with arch support |
| Straps | Stiff straps that rub and blister | Soft braided straps |
| Fit | One fixed fit for every foot | Adjustable buckle for narrow or wide feet |
| Staying on | Toes grip to keep it on | Toe loop holds it in place |
| Grip | Slippery on tiles and wet surfaces | Non-slip rubber sole |
| Look | “Comfort” styles that look clinical | Boho-chic and feminine |
Made for the way you actually spend your summer
☀️ Long walks along the beach or esplanade
🛍️ Full days of shopping or exploring a new city
🥂 Lunches, barbecues and garden parties
✈️ Holidays where you’re on your feet from morning to night
Finding your size
- Choose your usual shoe size. Half sizes are available, from AU 5 to 12.
- The adjustable buckle lets you fine-tune the fit for narrow or wider feet.
- Still unsure? Check the size chart on the product page, or contact us and we’ll help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear them all day?
Yes. Hayleigh is designed for long days on your feet, with a contoured cork footbed, a cushioned insole and soft straps.
What if I have wider feet?
The adjustable buckle lets you loosen the strap for a more comfortable fit on wider feet.
Do they need to be worn in?
The soft braided straps and cushioned insole are designed to feel comfortable from the first wear. Like any cork footbed, it moulds slightly to your foot over time.
Which colours are available?
Green, beige, black and khaki.
What if they don’t fit?
You have 30 days to return them. Contact our customer care team and we’ll guide you through the process.
Hayleigh Braided Cork Sandals
- Contoured cork footbed with arch support
- Soft braided straps that don’t rub
- Adjustable buckle for narrow or wide feet
- Half sizes AU 5–12 · 4 colours
- Free shipping across Australia · 30-day returns
If you’re done counting the minutes until you can take your sandals off, Hayleigh was made for you: the comfort to walk all day, with a look you’ll love wearing.