Best_Hiking_Sandals

Choosing the right footwear is one of the most important things when preparing for a hiking adventure. If the weather is warm, a good hiking sandal is the smartest option to wear on long walks. Not only does it protect your foot, but it also provides a level of comfort and breathability that standard hiking shoes simply can’t match.

With so many nice designs and options available, choosing the right hiking sandal might require some research. For example, you can choose whether you want an open or closed toe, a lace or a strap, and the type of support that the sole gives you. To help you decide, we’ve created a detailed buying guide and selected the best hiking sandals currently available, guaranteed to make your feet feel good wherever you go.

1

OUR TOP PICK

KEEN Clearwater CNX Hiking Sandals

KEEN Clearwater CNX Hiking Sandals


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Summary

The Keen Clearwater CNX hiking sandals are lightweight, breathable, and incredibly comfortable to wear on long hikes. On top of this, they feature excellent cushioning, arched foot support, and urethane shanks to improve your stability when walking. All of this makes them the best hiking sandals for your hiking adventures.

Upper Design and Closure

Made from polyester webbing, the upper of the Clearwater CNX adventure sandals feels very comfortable against your foot. As a bonus, they are equipped with drawcord bungee laces that allow you to quickly tighten or loosen them. While they don’t come with a Velcro strap system, there is a tab on the back for pulling the hiking shoe on your foot.

Comfort and Performance

The Keen Clearwater CNX are part of Keen’s CNX line which means it has reduced weight and bulk. Lastly, the outsole is made from high-quality rubber and features multi-directional flex grooves and razor siping for reliable traction on any surface.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Multi-directional flex grooves for a good grip on smooth surfaces
  • Comfortable polyester upper is easy to wash and dries quickly
  • Contoured topsole with metatarsal ridges for a better fit
  • Lightweight platform makes all-day walking significantly easier
  • Provides additional protection on rugged terrain
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Long Hikes
Closure: Drawcord Laces
Upper: Polyester Webbing
Lining: Polyester
Midsole: Polyurethane
Outsole: Rubber
Toe: Closed
Gender: Men’s

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Teva Tirra Women’s Hiking Sandals

Teva Tirra Women’s Hiking Sandals


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Summary

As one of the lightest and most stylish models available, the Teva Tirra hiking sandals are the best hiking sandals for women. They are equally good for casual wearing, long hikes, and even sports during the summer. Their hook and loop closure makes adjustments easy, while the cozy upper and soft underfoot make your feet feel great the entire day.

Upper Design and Closure

The upper of these top-rated adventure sandals is made from a combination of synthetic leather and polyester webbing. As we’ve pointed out, the Teva Tirra sandals come with velcro closure and each strap can be easily adjusted.

Comfort and Performance

For additional comfort, the entire sandal is lined with a blend of polyester mesh and neoprene. Last but not least, the footbed is made from compression-molded EVA foam and even features Microban zinc-based treatment that removes odors.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Velcro adjustable straps makes fit adjustments easy
  • Microban zinc-based treatment prevents nasty odors
  • Compression-molded EVA midsole easily absorbs shock
  • Molded nylon shanks improve stability when walking
  • Best sandals for hiking in terms of breathability
  • Provide good arch support
  • Perfect substitute for hiking shoes
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Foot Breathability
Closure: Velcro Strap
Upper: Polyester Webbing, Synthetic Leather
Lining: Polyester Mesh, Neoprene
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Toe: Open
Gender: Women’s

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3

BEST VALUE

KEEN Newport H2 Hiking Sandals

KEEN Newport H2 Hiking Sandals


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Summary

If you’re after the best sandal for hiking on a tighter budget, check out the Keen Newport H2. Their strong outsole and compression-molded insole give you excellent support, while the upper allows your foot to breathe. In addition, the Newport H2 trekking sandals are available in a large number of sizes and color options.

Upper Design and Closure

The upper is made from polyester webbing that resists abrasion really well. It’s even coated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) to prevent water from soaking in the fabric and making you uncomfortable. As you can see, the outdoor sandal comes with drawcord closure and it’s very easy to adjust.

Comfort and Performance

Despite being the most affordable model in our hiking sandals reviews, the Newport H2 has a lot to offer in terms of performance. The toe guard keeps your foot protected on rough terrain, while the razor-siped outsole with 3-millimeter lugs ensures a good grip.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Strong outsole with multi-directional lugs to improve the grip
  • Molded arch support increases comfort while wearing
  • Polyester upper with DWR coating to resist water
  • Rubber bumper on the front protects your toes from hits
  • Bungee lacing with a cinch lock for easily adjusting the fit
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Wet Terrain
Closure: Drawcord Laces 
Upper: Polyester
Lining: Quick-Dry Synthetic
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Toe: Closed
Gender: Men’s

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4

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Heavy Duty Hiking Sandals

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Heavy Duty Hiking Sandals


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Summary

In terms of breathability and walking comfort, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 hiking sandals are really hard to beat. With a fully open design and an upper that only consists of a few straps, this is the ideal footwear for very warm weather. This also makes them excellent for walking in water because they don’t get soaked and they dry really fast.

Upper Design and Closure

The upper of these sandals for hiking and water is made from Repreve recycled polyester. Not only does it feel great on your feet, but it’s also more eco-friendly than most of the alternative materials. The sandal outdoor model doesn’t have any laces but instead features a dual hook-and-loop closure around the ankle.

Comfort and Performance

Comfort is the main focal point of the Hurricane XLT2 and you notice this as soon as you put them on. While they won’t be good for harsher trails, these sandals are fantastic for lighter hikes and casual wearing.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Eco-friendly construction (Repreve recycled polyester)
  • Durabrasion rubber soles with excellent traction
  • Nylon shanks help keep your foot in place when walking
  • EVA midsoles provide support and soft cushioning
  • Hook and loop closure for easily getting the sandal on and off
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Walking Comfort
Closure: Velcro Strap
Upper: Repreve Recycled Polyester
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Toe: Open
Gender: Men’s

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5

Chaco Z/2 Classic Hiking Sandals

Chaco Z/2 Classic Hiking Sandals


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Summary

The Chaco Z/2 classic hiking sandals for men are simple, functional, and incredibly comfortable during the summer. Despite being very minimalist, these water hiking sandals are made from rugged materials that can handle frequent use on less forgiving trails.

Upper Design and Closure

Similarly to the previous model, the sandals Chaco Z/2 features a strap upper made from polyester jacquard webbing. It’s strong, durable, and dries really fast after you get out of the water crossings. As for the closure, the hikers sandals come with a secure buckle around the ankle.

Comfort and Performance

The comfort of the Z/2 sandal is truly impressive – the LuvSeat cushions provide top-level foot support, while the ChacoGrp rubber outsole makes sure you don’t slip on wet surfaces. Last but not least, the sandal is treated with an antimicrobial agent that prevents odors.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Open sandal design feels great in high temperatures
  • Antimicrobial footbed treatment prevents odors
  • Quick-drying upper works great on the beach
  • LuvSeat PU midsole cushions make every step comfortable
  • Webbing upper with buckles easily adapts to any foot shape
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Odor-Resistance
Closure: Ladder Lock Buckle Strap
Upper: Polyester Jacquard Webbing
Midsole: LuvSeat Polyurethane
Outsole: Non-Marking ChacoGrip Rubber
Toe: Open
Gender: Men’s

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6

ECCO Yucatan Offroad Hiking Sandals

ECCO Yucatan Offroad Hiking Sandals


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Summary

The thing that separates the Ecco Yucatan hiking shoes from the others is their impressive durability. They are made from a combination of leather, textile, and extra-durable rubber, which makes them excellent hike sandals for any type of trail.

Upper Design and Closure

To ensure that the sandal is strong without compromising style, the upper of the Yucatan is made from high-quality nubuck leather. It’s reinforced by textile and lined with soft microfiber so it feels great on the foot. One of the things we particularly like is that all three straps come with Velcro closure (including a toe strap) so you can easily adjust the tightness in all areas of the sandal.

Comfort and Performance

The high level of adjustability and the completely open front make these open toe hiking shoes a top choice for warm weather. On top of this, they provide great cushioning and stability so you can use them wherever the road takes you.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Stylish and abrasion-resistant nubuck leather upper
  • Three adjustable Velcro straps for finding the perfect fit
  • Receptor technology provides dynamic support when walking
  • Soft EVA footbed with a comfortable microfiber cover
  • Available in over 25 great-looking color options
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Cushioning and Stability
Closure: Velcro Strap
Upper: Nubuck Leather, Textile
Lining: EVA Foam with Microfiber
Midsole: Direct-Injected Polyurethane
Outsole: Rubber
Toe: Open
Gender: Men’s

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7

Northside Burke II Hiking Sandals

Northside Burke II Hiking Sandals


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Summary

The Northside Burke II outdoor hiking sandals for men are a versatile and budget-friendly model that you can wear both on and off the trail. Their closed-toe design gives you excellent toe protection, while the open sides and heel ensure that your foot doesn’t get sweaty.

Upper Design and Closure

Made from high-quality nylon, the upper of these outdoorsy sandals won’t get damaged even on rough terrain. It’s backed with EVA foam to make it softer so the sandal feels nicer to wear. As for the closure, these sandals comes with a strong and elastic drawcord lace and has two pull loops for getting the sandal on easy.

Comfort and Performance

Due to the multi-directional rubber outsole, the traction of these sandals is very reliable even on wet and slippery surfaces. The moisture-wicking EVA lining guarantees comfort, while the 1-inch platform and slightly raised heel make walking easy and natural.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Strong toe guard for additional protection on rocky terrain
  • Nylon upper with EVA backing provides comfort and durability
  • Best men's walking sandals for keeping your fet dry
  • Pull loop on the heel for getting the sandal on and off easily
  • Drawstring lacing system for quickly tightening the sandal
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Fit Adjustment
Closure: Drawcord Laces
Upper: Nylon with EVA Backing
Lining: EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) Foam
Insole: EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Toe: Closed
Gender: Men’s

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8

KEEN Whisper Women’s Hiking Sandals

KEEN Whisper Women’s Hiking Sandals


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Summary

Thanks to their polyester webbing upper and durable rubber outsole, the Keen Whisper sandals are the best women's hiking sandals if you’ll be walking in water or have river crossings on your hike. The sandal is completely waterproof (isn’t damaged by water), and you can easily rinse it off and dry it when you get back home. 

Upper Design and Closure

For additional toe protection, the Keen Whisper sandals are designed as closed toe hiking sandals with a strong rubber Toe Guard on the front. The webbing upper we’ve mentioned is made from strong polyester and comes with a drawcord lace that makes fit adjustments easy.

Comfort and Performance

The sides and heel of this sandal are open and breathable, which greatly contributes to the overall comfort. The EVA midsoles absorb the shock when walking, while the non-marking carbon-reinforced rubber outsoles give you a good grip on any surface.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Quick-drying washable upper makes maintenance easy
  • Cleansport NXT coating provides odor resistance
  • Pull lace with a cinch lock keeps the foot secure
  • Carbon outsoles don’t leave marks when walking
  • Rubber toe guards protect you from hits and injuries
  • Provide good arch support
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Easy Maintenance
Closure: Drawcord Laces
Upper: Polyester Webbing
Lining: Nylon Mesh
Midsole: EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) Foam
Outsole: Carbon Rubber
Toe: Closed
Gender: Women’s

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9

KEEN UNEEK Hiking Sandals

KEEN UNEEK Hiking Sandals


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Summary

If you’re after a sandal that truly stands out, the Keen Uneek mens hiking sandals are the one for you. Made using the innovative two-cord design, they provide a very impressive level of breathability and fit adjustment. As a bonus, they are available in a huge number of sizes and over 30 colors so it will be easy to find the perfect model.

Upper Design and Closure

The entire upper consists of woven synthetic cords that are intertwined to give a snug fit to your foot. The model is a modern twist on traditional huarache sandals and comes with a free-moving cord junction and adjustable drawcord lacing so you can easily get the foot in and out.

Comfort and Performance

Both the comfort and the performance of this sandal are very good. The strap material and the anatomical footbed feel great when walking, while the polyurethane midsole and rubber outsole give you good support and traction on any terrain.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Unique look for people who want something different
  • Huge number of color options and sizes to choose from
  • Drawcord lacing system provides a great fit on the foot
  • Anatomical footbed makes all-day walking comfortable
  • Non-marking outsole with a good grip on any type of surface
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Wet Terrain Traction
Closure: Drawcord Laces
Upper: Woven Synthetic
Lining: Synthetic
Midsole: Polyurethane
Outsole: Rubber
Toe: Closed
Gender: Men’s

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10

Skechers Selmo Fisherman Hiking Sandals

Skechers Selmo Fisherman Hiking Sandals


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Summary

The classic design of the Skechers Selmo Fisherman hiking sandals combines with the stylish suede upper to give you a model that you can wear pretty much anywhere – hiking, camping, fishing, or casually around town. On top of this, the waterproof sandal is very comfy and contours to your foot so you’ll enjoy having them on the entire day.

Upper Design and Closure

In addition to providing impressive comfort, the suede upper also makes the Skechers Selmo travel sandals very durable. It features a Velcro closure and a single adjustable heel strap, but sliding your foot inside will be really easy thanks to the pull loop placed on the top.

Comfort and Performance

A combination of Dual-Lite footbed and gel-infused memory foam makes this model one of the softest bedrock sandals that you’ll come across. On the other hand, they come with a tough high-traction outsole and a protective toecap so you can use them on more demanding trails too.

  • What Makes These Hiking Sandals Stand Out
  • Velcro heel strap to easily convert the sandal into flip flops
  • Gel-infused memory foam midsole adapts to the foot shape
  • Perforated footbed greatly increases the breathability
  • Dual-lite base material prevents fatigue when walking
  • Rubber toe cap protects you from hiking injuries
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Casual Wearing
Closure: Velcro Strap
Upper: Suede
Midsole: Gel-Infused Memory Foam
Outsole: Dual-Lite Rubber
Toe: Closed
Gender: Men’s

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Hiking in sandals is tops for comfort, but those sandals won't protect your feet from sticks, rocks, thorns, insects and other hazards the same way boots or shoes would. Consider wearing closed-toe hiking sandals, sometimes also called water shoes. At least they'll protect you from stubbing your toes. 

Hiking sandals should be sized the same way you'd choose any other hiking footwear, and that means doing a few basic tests. Walk around in them: If they rub or pinch your feet, or shift back and forth excessively, they're not the sandal for you. Walking uphill, downhill and on uneven surfaces are important tests of sandal fit/comfort, too.

Yes, you can wear sandals with socks! It might not be very stylish, but those socks can help keep your feet warm and offer some protection against grit and gravel that likes to creep in between your toes. Avoid cotton socks, which chafe easily when wet; in cold climates, aim for socks made of wool, quick-dry synthetics, or even neoprene.

Lisa Maloney
Hiker

How To Choose Hiking Sandals – Buying Guide

How_To_Choose_Hiking_Sandals

Tread and Sole

A reliable and secure grip of your sandal makes your step confident and safe. The best hiking sandals feature a strong outsole that has good traction on any type of surface, no matter if it’s dry, wet, flat, or bumpy. The lugs (welts) should be strong and wide, as they help prevent slipping. Furthermore, a good tread pattern improves stability, while deep grooves improve traction on softer terrain.

Toe Protection

You have two options when it comes to toe design – open or closed-toe outdoor sandals. Both of these have their upsides and downsides. Open-toe sandals are much more comfortable and allow your toes to breathe, but don’t protect them from ground and river rocks, branches, or other objects. On the other hand, closed-toe sandals prevent injuries but might feel cramped or cause your feet to sweat.

Weight

No matter which specific product you choose, you can be sure it will be lighter compared to a traditional hiking shoe or hiking boot. However, weight differences between sandals exist, mostly because of their design. A pair with closed toes and a rugged sole will weigh more than an open toe version with a thin sole, so we advise that you pay attention to this when going through trekking sandals reviews.

Lacing Method

Laces and straps hold your foot in place and greatly contribute to stability. They also impact the comfort and ease of use. Perhaps the most convenient option is bungee laces with a cinch cord because they allow you to easily adjust the fit. On the other hand, Velcro straps are number one when it comes to quickly get your foot in and out. 

Fit and Comfort

Fit and comfort are among the most important things to look for when buying any type of footwear, sandals included. A good fit is one of the main things in blister prevention, so it shouldn’t be ignored. Since you won’t be able to try out your sandals when buying online, look for a pair with a high degree of adjustability.

As for comfort, good ventilation is probably the key. This is the main reason we pick sandals over traditional hiking shoes – they allow our feet to breathe instead of getting cramped and sweaty. Other things that improve comfort are the type of lining inside, how quickly the sandals dry off, insole softness, and whether it has an ergonomic footbed.

Support

The terrain on your hikes will often be uneven, so you want a sandal that can neutralize that. Cushioning and shock absorption are usually determined by the shape and materials of the sole. In most scenarios, an arched footbed made from dense EVA foam will give you optimal support.

Type of Hiking

While they are great for many reasons, outdoor sandals are not universal hiking footwear and even the best hiking sandals come with some limitations. They are a fantastic choice for lighter hiking trips, but they aren’t the safest option for difficult and demanding terrain because they won’t give you enough foot protection and stability.

Durability

Since you’ll be using them on the trail, the strength and durability of hiker sandals need to be top-notch. We put a big accent on this when choosing our products, and top-rated sandals for hiking can take years of abuse before they start to fall apart. This being said, there are still differences in material and construction quality (uppers, footbeds, and outsoles), and paying a bit more initially is a good way of making sure you don’t have to replace the hiking sandals every year.

FAQs

Why_Choose_Hiking_Sandals_When_To_Weark_Hiking_Sandals

Q: Why Choose Hiking Sandals?

A: 

Outdoor sandals are the right choice because of their comfort, low weight per pair, and easy adjustability. They will prevent your feet from getting sweaty, smelly, and even blistered (unlike closed footwear). If you want something lighter and less restrictive, outdoor sandals are the way to go.

Q: When Should I Wear Hiking Sandals?

A: 

The perfect opportunity to wear trekking sandals is on a more laid-back trail during the warmer time of the year. It’s an excellent choice for summer hiking on a flatter terrain where you don’t expect much climbing. Furthermore, walking sandals are versatile and aren’t strictly limited to hiking – many people like using them as everyday footwear because of their comfort.

Q: How Should My Hiking Sandals Fit?

A: 

The sandals you get shouldn’t be too constrictive to cause discomfort, but shouldn’t be too loose either or your foot might slide around inside. You should also make sure the footbed is wide enough, especially if you have wider feet. Because of this, we advise that you get a model with highly-adjustable straps so you can find the ideal fit in all areas of the foot.

Q: Is It Safe To Hike In Sandals?

A: 

Hiking in sandals is perfectly safe, as long as you’re aware of their limitations. As we’ve discussed earlier, they will work wonders on flat land or camping grounds. However, they aren’t a good choice for demanding terrain with obstacles.

Q: Are Hiking Sandals Recommended For Long Hikes?

A: 

This mostly depends on the type of hike in, and it’s closely related to the previous question. If the conditions allow it, you can use sandals to walk long distances without trouble. However, if you plan to walk in the hills or expect it to be cold, hiking boots are a better choice.

Globo Surf Overview

From long walks to casual wearing, a pair of hiking sandals give your feet an incredible level of comfort. Because of this, no other type of shoe can replace them during the summer. We hope that our gear reviews and guide helped you find the best hiking sandals that will become your favorite footwear for all types of outdoor adventures.

More Backpacking/Hiking Reviews:

More Sandals Reviews:

Have you tried a pair of hiking sandals that made it onto our list? Which type did you get? How did they perform? Are you satisfied with the build quality and durability? Please share your experience with us in the comment section below.

Globo Surf
My name is David Hamburg. I am an avid water sports fan who enjoys paddle boarding, surfing, scuba diving, and kite surfing. Anything with a board or chance I can get in the water I love! I am such a big fan I decided to start this website to review all my favorite products and some others. Hope you enjoy!