Remember the jelly shoes of your youth? Well, they’re officially back in style — but before you try to dig out your old blister-prone pairs from the ’80s and ’90s, you might want to opt for something newer and more comfortable.
Amazon currently sells a bunch of jelly sandals for under $50 that are actually comfortable, and no, we’re not kidding. From pairs with cushioned insoles to mules that won’t destroy the backs of your heels, jelly shoes have gotten a present-day makeover that make them an easy-breezy shoe choice for summer (not to mention they’re often water-resistant and easy to clean, making them a great pick for the beach or pool).
Below, we’ve rounded up some jelly sandals, flats and slides you can get for under $50 on Amazon. Whether you want a whimsical, vivid color or something a little more neutral, jelly shoes are finally a trend your feet don’t have to hate you for.
The comfort-first jelly flats even our resident “clothing snob” approves of
Marquaysa Battle, HuffPost managing editor of shopping and sales strategy, is a self-proclaimed “clothing snob” and came across these Cushionaire jelly flats during Prime Day sales in June. The pointed toe elevates these from regular flats to something a bit more stylish, and the latticed design keeps air flowing so you avoid the sweatiness of some other jelly shoes. Best of all, though, these shoes feature a cloud-comfort insole to keep your feet cushioned and comfortable. Get these in six colorways and sizes 6-11 (reviews and the brand both suggest sizing down if you’re between sizes).
Promising review: “Okay, I’m an 80’s baby. Jellies from my childhood were adorable but they weren’t comfortable and somehow whomever designed them made the bottoms able to catch every tiny rock or pebble on the ground. But let’s talk about these Cushionaires though!!!! Two words - GET THEM! Not only are they nostalgic, but this brand has a way of making you feel like you’re walking on a mattress! I absolutely love them; so much so that I ordered the smoke, tortoise AND the nude looking color. Now, I’m 10 again with no rocks and pebbles and no back pain because I’m walking in a nice shoe! Cushionaire sneakers are next on my list. This brand is awesome and the jellies? Well, I’m sure if you’ve read this review this far, you know they’re a yes for me!” — HunnyBee850
A pair of Mary Jane jelly mules with an adjustable strap
If you want something with a more customizable fit, these Mary Jane jelly mules have an adjustable strap with a buckle. They’re also made by Cushionaire, and feature a similar cushioned insole and latticed upper. These are rounded-toe, however, and the mule style means the heel is open at the back. You can get a pair in five colors and sizes 6-11.
Or these latticed jelly slip-ons for maximum convenience
These slip-ons couldn’t be easier to toe on and off, with their backless silhouette. Reviewers say they’re “pleasantly surprised” at how comfortable these are, and they also have a traction outsole so you can wear them at the beach or out and about. Get them in three colors and sizes 6-11.
Promising review: “So comfortable and stylish! I grew up with the original jellies of the 80’s. Massive improvement! They run VERY small. I’m normally an 8.5 and I ordered a 10. My heel hangs slightly off the back in a size 9. I was very shocked at how comfortable they are. I was ready to sacrifice comfort but I didn’t have to.” — SP
Adjustable jelly fisherman’s sandals from the brand that popularized the trend
You might remember the brand Melissa from the original heyday of jelly shoes, and they currently sell these ‘90s-inspired fisherman sandals that are reminiscent of the trend back then. These have an adjustable strap and cushioned footbed for comfort. They’re also scented like bubblegum to give them that retro feel, according to the brand. These come in sizes 5-13 and a bunch of colorways — just be sure to check the price, since unfortunately not all of them meet our under-$50 price threshold.
Promising review: “I get so many compliments on these shoes! They’re so cute and I love that the insoles are padded and not just plastic, doesn’t make your feet sweaty!!! I think they’re super adjustable to your feet, really easy to clean especially with water. They have been super durable so far, easy to put on! I love them and they go with everything!” — Jaycee Beeson
Or this more affordable pair with sparkly and matte options
For a more consistently priced (and overall slightly cheaper) fisherman sandal, you can opt for these shoes by Hee grand. They similarly feature an adjustable buckle strap and come in a bunch of styles, including opaque matte colors, sparkly translucent shades and even a version with taller heels if you’re into that. Get them in sizes 5-9.5.
Clip the on-page coupon for an additional discount at checkout.
A stunning pair of Sam Edelman jelly slides for a more grown-up look
Want a take on the jelly sandals that’s a little less ‘90s kid nostalgia and more adult and elevated? These Sam Edelman slides have a sleeker look that don’t sacrifice the fun look of the jelly material. Normally above our price threshold, you can score some colors on sale for below $50 right now, so don’t wait too long. These come in nine colorways and sizes 5-12.
Promising review: “I absolutely love these Sam Edelman Bay Jelly Flats! They’re lightweight, comfortable, and surprisingly easy to wear all day. The design is simple but chic, and they go with everything from casual outfits to beachwear. They fit well, clean up easily, and add a fun touch to any look. Definitely a great purchase.” — Brianna Lewis
Steve Madden’s square toe take on the jelly flats
The jelly cage design on these Steve Madden flats comes up a little higher on the upper foot than the first flats on these list, if you prefer that style. They also have a square toe. These come in sizes 5-12 and five colors, including a neutral tan with rhinestones on the jelly for even more whimsy and style.
Clip the on-page coupon for a discount applied at checkout.
A jelly-ified approach to a Birkenstocks-style slide
These two-strap sandals look like Birkenstocks gone jelly, and we’re not mad about it. They have a jelly upper and raised sole, but the footbed is contoured and cushioned to keep your feet comfortable. The slip-on style is great for the pool, beach, water parks or even as shower shoes, but these also look cool enough to wear around town as you like. You can buy these in six colors and sizes 5-12.
Promising review: “This is the perfect pool shoe for ADULTS! These shoes give the appearance of a simple slide, but have awesome memory foam layer to keep my feet cozy. Feet don’t slide around in the shoe when they’re wet, and they are so supportive. They’re nice and heavy, is a good way! Definitely recommend” — Katie 😘
Another set of Mary Jane jelly mules, this time available in classic black
You might have noticed, if you clicked on the Cushionaire Mary Jane mules above, that those ones don’t come in a classic black shade. But fret not, because this lookalike pair (that’s also slightly lower-priced) do come in black, along with two other neutral colors. The gold hardware for the adjustable buckle gives these an elevated edge, but you could just as easily wear them with casual outfits or even in the water. Get a pair in sizes 6-10.
Promising review: “I bought these to be on trend this summer. I was hoping they would be cute and comfortable. I was very pleasantly surprised. Are they “walk a long distance” shoes? Probably not, but running errands or heading out for dinner? Yep. I got the clear ones and I’m very pleased. Would recommend if your looking to grab this trend.” — Matthew’s Puzzle