We’ve hiked thousands of miles and tested over 30 different pairs so we could determine the best of the best sandals for hiking. Our team has climbed dozens of Colorado 14ers, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail, and tackled hundreds of day hikes in our favorites. We look at comfort, weight, durability, and versatility of pairs from brands like Chaco, KEEN, Teva, Bedrock and more. If you’re looking for quality hiking sandals for your next outing, chances are you’ll find them on this list.
We also have a guide to the best hiking sandals for women. If the trails you’re exploring demand full-foot protection, we’ve also carefully tested dozens of closed-toe options in our guides to the best trail runners (women’s / men’s), hiking shoes for women and men, and hiking boots (women’s / men’s).
Quick Picks for Men’s Hiking Sandals
Hit the trail with our quick guide to hiking sandals, or keep trekking and explore our detailed reviews below.
Best Men’s Hiking Sandals Overall: Chaco Z/1 Classic ($105)
Best Minimal Hiking Sandals: Luna Mono Winged ($110)
Best Closed-Toe Hiking Sandals: KEEN Newport H2 ($125)
Best Ultralight Hiking Sandals: Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV ($80)
Stable & Comfy Minimalist Sandals: Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro ($140)
Best Budget Hiking Sandals: Teva Original Universals ($55)
Supportive Sandals For Travel & Everyday Wear: ECCO Yucatan ($140)
Best Water Sandal: Astral Webber ($110)
What’s new
We’ve been testing a ton of new hiking sandals as well as putting additional miles on our old favorites.
- We added the ultralight and adjustable Luna Sandals Mono Winged as an excellent trail and water sandal for minimalists.
- We added the Teva Original Universals as an extremely affordable and comfy pair of all-around sandals.
- The Astral Webbers make the list as a versatile and lightweight sandal for adventures with lots of water.
Chaco Z/1 Classic
Best Hiking Sandals Overall
Price: $105
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 13.8 oz.
Sizing: True to size
Pros
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Adjustable
- Supportive
- Excellent traction
- Lots of colors & patterns to choose from
Cons
- Straps can cause blisters when wet & sandy
- Heavier than other sandals
- Straps are difficult to adjust when dirty
If you’re looking for the ultimate hiking sandals, meet the Chaco Z/1 Classic. Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, thru-hiked all 2,190 miles of the Appalachian Trail, as well as almost the entire 800 miles of the Arizona Trail in Chaco Z/1 Classics.
These Chacos check every box we want in hiking sandals: they’re comfy out of the box, easy to adjust, and impressively supportive. The Z/1s are also ultra durable: most pairs last multiple seasons and we’ve gotten almost a thousand miles before replacing them.
The Chaco Z/Clouds are a close sibling of the Z/1 and we love them as well. Gear Analyst, Ian Krammer, summited more than 20 Colorado mountains over 14,000’ and 100+ more peaks over 13,000’ in his Chaco Z/Clouds. The difference between these models comes down to personal preference. The Clouds have a softer and more pliable sole, whereas the Z/1s are stiffer. Go with the Z/Clouds if you prefer a springier landing with each step. Stick with the Z/1s if you want to save just a bit of weight and don’t mind more structure.
You’ll still get the same durability and support from both models, and the easy-adjust polyester webbing accommodates any foot shape or size. Plus, Chacos come in a ton of colorways, designs, and patterns to elevate your style in the backcountry.
Our only complaint about the Z/1s and the Z/Clouds is their weight. At nearly a pound per shoe, they are some of the heaviest sandals we tested. But, they’re among the most durable options you’ll find anywhere, so you won’t have to purchase another pair for years.
Many types of hikers swear by Chacos, from day hikers to minimalist fast packers, to dedicated veteran thru-hikers. They could become your new favorites as well. If you’re looking for a more locked-in fit, the Z/2s and Z/Cloud 2s include a loop that goes over the toe.
Luna Mono Winged
Best Minimal Hiking Sandals
Price: $110
Weight (Pair): 11.8 oz.
Sizing: True to size
Pros
- Ultralight
- Less expensive
- Comfortable
- Adjustable
- Stable soles
- Easy on / off
Cons
- Zero-drop sandals not as supportive as others
- Not as durable as heavier options
- Straps between toes aren’t for everyone
The Luna Mono Winged Edition is an ultralight sandal that hits the sweet spot for stability, comfort, and durability. Its clever design and exemplary construction make it a stellar option for minimalist hikers who want a do-it-all sandal for hiking, water crossings, and lounging at camp.
Catering to thru-hikers, backpackers, and lightweight aficionados, this model has a similar design and excellent adjustability to the Bedrock Cairns, but for a lower price. They also offer excellent durability and a barefoot feel like the Xero Z-Trails but with more stability.
We’re big fans of the simple, adjustable design of the Monos. A single strap slides across the top of the foot along the toe strap to adjust tension and tightness and stays put once it’s positioned, which means more time moving and less time adjusting your footwear.
And, the Monos are durable when compared to most ultralight sandals. Small, hearty “wings” on both sides act as the hub attachment for the straps, adding longevity and structure. Sturdy Vibram outsoles add traction and a bit of wear resistance. And they only weigh 11.8 ounces for the pair.
Like other minimalist and ultralight sandals, though, the Monos fall a bit short when it comes to support and durability. They are zero-drop and fairly thin, so if you want lots of arch support and many seasons of use, you may want to continue scrolling. And, the strap between your toes might rub you the wrong way.
That said, the Monos are at the top of their game for minimalist, lightweight, and comfy sandals. For ultralight hikers and the minimalist-minded, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-made or more affordable sandal.
KEEN Newport H2
Best Closed-Toe Hiking Sandals
Price: $125
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 12.3 oz.
Sizing: Runs a little small
Pros
- Protective toe box
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Excellent traction
- Easily adjustable
- Supportive
- Easy & fast on / off
- Bungee lacing system tightens shoes well
Cons
- A bit bulky / heavier than others
- Expensive
- Run about a half size small (order bigger)
- Less breathable than other sandals
- Debris can get stuck in slots
If your biggest hangup about hiking in sandals is stubbed toes, the KEEN Newport H2s are the answer. The Newports have a giant toe cap and beefy uppers that will save your digits from sharp underbrush, jagged rocks, and pokey roots while keeping your feet ventilated.
Because of their wide toe cap and sturdy construction, the Newports are really a hiking shoe masquerading as a sandal. Like hiking shoes, they offer plenty of arch support, a bungee lacing system for fast on / off, and excellent tread. But, like sandals, this model features fast-drying webbing and plenty of ventilation to let your dogs breathe.
KEEN had comfort in mind when they built the Newports. We find they’re a snug and pleasant fit from the first try, and it’s easy to love the soft interior and pliable sole. The Newports are cozy enough for all-day wear, making them a great choice for a hike or running errands around town.
Unfortunately, these sandals are a little bulkier and heavier than others on our list. We find they don’t work quite as well in the water as they do on the trail because the substantial uppers drain water a bit slower, and debris like gravel and sand can get stuck in the slots. However, we’ve taken these on plenty of stand-up paddle boarding and tubing adventures, so don’t let their size or design stop you.
The Newports offer top-tier protection for your toes and last for years. If you’re a first-time sandal hiker, hiking more technical trails, or simply want some extra protection in a super comfy package, the Newport H2s are the way to go.
Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV
Best Ultralight Hiking Sandals
Price: $80
Weight (Pair): 10.8 oz.
Sizing: True to size
Pros
- Ultralight
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Adjustable
- Simple
- Easy on / off
Cons
- Not as supportive as others
- Not as durable as some others
- Zero-drop shoes aren't for everyone
The Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV Sandals are some of our favorite minimalist sandals. These sandals are slim and ultralight, but they punch well above their class when it comes to comfort and performance.
The Z-Trails are the lightest sandals on this list. At only 10.8 ounces for the pair, they feel incredibly comfortable, airy, and pliable right out of the box. If you’re a hiker who loves to free their feet while crossing water or milling around camp, these shoes are a stellar addition to your hiking kit.
This pair will work with any foot shape or size since the super-adjustable Velcro straps on the top of the foot and heel make it easy to get a custom fit. The soles are extremely flexible, but also grippy and comfortable on a variety of terrains.
This zero-drop model is not for everyone. They’re zero-drop, so they don’t have great arch support (or much support at all) compared to many sandals on this list. And, while they’re more durable than other ultralight sandals, they can’t hold a candle to heavier-duty options.
The Z-Trails are for minimal footwear lovers, barefoot shoe fans, and those who want the absolute least amount of shoe on their foot without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re walking the dog or lounging near your tent, these sandals are as light and comfy as they come.
Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro
Stable & Comfy Ultralight Sandals
Price: $140
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1 oz.
Sizing: Runs a little small
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Excellent traction
- Highly adjustable
- Durable
Cons
- Zero-drop not as supportive as others
- Straps between toes aren't for everyone
- Expensive
If you’re looking for minimalist, ultralight sandals to take on the trails this summer, our top recommendation is the Bedrock Cairn 3D Pros. These are no-frills sandals with an awesomely adjustable and soft strap system that makes them feel as comfy as they are stylish.
This model allows you to tighten your footwear at the heel, and adjust where the toe strap crosses the top of your foot, meaning it can accommodate a wide range of foot shapes and sizes.
We love the ergonomic footbed, which is flexible enough to keep your natural gait, but durable enough to tackle rough terrain. The burly lug pattern is reliable on slippery, steep, and uneven surfaces, and is durable across rough trail miles.
The downside of the Cairn 3Ds boils down to the toe strap and lack of structure. Though the nylon toe strap is very soft, having material between your toes may not be for you. And, these sandals are zero-drop, which may not work if you need or want better foot or arch support.
However, the Cairn 3Ds are comfy, simple, and awesome minimalist sandals that come in lots of bright, playful colors. For folks who want lightweight adjustable summer footwear for adventures outside, these are a great option.
Teva Original Universal
Best Budget Hiking Sandals
Price: $55
Weight (Pair): 13 oz.
Sizing: True to size
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Cushy soles
- Highly adjustable
- Tons of colorways
- Easy to put on / take off
- Dry quickly
Cons
- Soles may be too cushy for some
- Less durable than others
- Shoes run a bit long (go down half a size)
You won’t find a better bang for your buck than the affordable and über comfy Teva Original Universals. With such a low price, these sandals are a steal for their quality, simplicity, and versatility.
Whether you’re playing on the river or day hiking on established trails, the Original Universals are up to the task. Their adjustable straps use sturdy Velcro to dial in the perfect fit with adjustments at both the toes and the top of the foot. On water or land, these sandals will stay in place but are still easy to put on and take off.
These Tevas are seriously comfortable and light. At only 13 ounces for the pair, the Original Universals are one of the lightest models we tested. The cushy soles offer enough support to make you feel fast and agile while trekking, and the straps are soft and dry quickly.
The biggest con of the Original Universals is also their best attribute: the soles. They are awesomely cushy but may be too soft for some hikers since they don’t offer much arch support and aren’t nearly as durable as stiffer, thicker, burlier options. We don’t reach for these when it comes to long-distance adventures, but they’re perfect for daily use, weekend trips on the river, simple day hikes, and kicking it around the campfire.
Those looking for an affordable, soft, and versatile sandal can’t go wrong with the Original Universals. If you want a more rugged design and better support though, the Chaco Z/1s are a great choice.
ECCO Yucatan
Supportive Sandals for Travel & Everyday Wear
Price: $140
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 12.6 oz.
Sizing: True to size
Pros
- Supportive
- Comfortable straps
- Adjustable
- Durable
- Casual look
Cons
- Expensive
- A little heavier & bulkier than others
The ECCO Yucatans are our go-to sandals for summer adventures that require sturdy, high-quality athleisure sandals. If June to August looks like day hikes, stand-up paddleboarding, and road trips, the Yucatans can handle it all.
ECCO offers outstanding quality materials and construction that will last for hundreds of miles and years of rough use. The fabric is soft, flexible, and feels great on the skin, and the soles are responsive but durable with solid arch support and a snug fit.
We like that the Yucatans are easy to adjust with two large, wide Velcro straps. Their profile is a bit bulky and the soles are thick – similar to Chaco Z/1s, – but we don’t mind, since the bulk of the Yucatans gives them great durability.
However, the Yucatans come with a hefty price tag compared to most other models. They are also one of the heavier pairs we tested (again, on par with Chacos), but feature a more mellow tread pattern that’s not as grippy on slick surfaces.
Because of these issues, we wouldn’t recommend them exclusively for hiking – but they’re worth every penny for folks who want a durable, super stylish, and versatile shoe for daily wear and travel.
Astral Webber
Best Water Shoes
Price: $110
Weight (Pair): 1 lb.
Sizing: Runs a little small
Pros
- Comfy
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Fabric dries very fast
- Easy on / off
- Good traction
Cons
- Giant buckles not very adjustable
- Very narrow fit
- Zero-drop isn’t for everyone
If your next hike involves lots of water crossings, the Astral Webbers are our top recommendation. Whether you’re tackling a hot summer stroll with the family in your local foothills or rafting the Colorado River, the Astrals are lightweight, comfy, and perfect for long days with wet feet.
Astral got its start building PFDs, and applies the same lightweight, ultra-durable technology to its sandals. At only one pound for the pair, Webbers are incredibly light, but the construction is impressively durable: both the webbing uppers and soles will last for years. Their grippy traction and super cozy fit will keep you stylish and moving all day.
We’re impressed with how comfortable the Webbers are from the very first try. The webbing is soft and only gets more pliable and accommodating over time, making them very easy to slip on and slide off. The soles are a bit stiff at first, but after a few miles of breaking in, they offer a refreshing balance of flexibility and cushion.
Our issue with the Webbers comes down to the fit. The footbed is very narrow and there isn’t much arch support, so those with wide feet or high arches will want to look elsewhere – which is why it’s further down our list. And, the giant buckles – which we love for their aesthetic – are not the most adjustable locking system, offering a bit of leeway to tighten, but that’s it.
That said, we’ve hiked, ran, jumped, and swam in the Webbers all summer long. We highly recommend them for your next lake day, river adventure, or hike with lots of creeks and streams.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight (Pair) | Sizing | Comfort | Traction | Stability | Adjustability | Durability | Versatility | 0 |
Chaco Z/1 Classic View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$105 | 1 lb. 13.8 oz. | True to size | 9 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 1 |
Luna Mono Winged View at Amazon View at Luna
|
$110 | 11.8 oz. | True to size | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8.5 | 7 | 8 | 2 |
KEEN Newport H2 View at REI View at Amazon |
$125 | 1 lb. 12.3 oz. | Runs a little small | 9 | 8.5 | 9 | 8 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 3 |
Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV View at REI View at Amazon |
$80 | 10.8 oz. | True to size | 7.5 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 | 9 | 4 |
Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro View at Bedrock |
$140 | 1 lb. 1 oz. | Runs a little small | 9 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 8 | 8.5 | 5 |
Teva Original Universal View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$55 | 13 oz. | True to size | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 |
ECCO Yucatan View at Amazon View at Zappos |
$140 | 1 lb. 12.6 oz. | True to size | 8.5 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 7 |
Astral Webber View at REI View at Amazon |
$110 | 1 lb. | Runs a little small | 8 | 7 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 9 | 7.5 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
We assessed each pair of sandals based on comfort, weight, durability, and use case. Our team has hiked at least 25 miles in newer pairs but typically hundreds or thousands of miles in most, from the hottest summer days to crisp winter mornings to suss out which sandals are truly the best of the best for hiking and beyond.
COMFORT
We take every pair of sandals on dozens of hikes, from short trails to multi-day treks, to see how they perform in real-world trail conditions. We evaluate the cushioning, including the insole and midsole, to determine how well they absorb shock and provide support over long distances. We test the flexibility of the sole as well, looking for natural foot movement while still providing lots of protection from rough terrain. We also take materials into account: sandals with soft, breathable fabrics are at the top of this category since they reduce the risk of blisters and irritation and increase comfort. assess the fit and size so they work well with different foot shapes and sizes – sandals should provide a snug but flexible feel for most feet.
We analyze the shape of the footbed to see how ergonomic it is and how well it contours to our feet, offers arch support, and promotes proper alignment. Since many sandals have webbing or crevices that can collect twigs or gravel, we also look for sandals that are easy to remove dirt and debris.
TRACTION
We test our sandals in a full spectrum of weather conditions, from hot and dry to wet and cold, to see if traction remains reliable after extensive use. We look at the tread pattern and depth, testing the sandals on rough terrain like rocky trails, wet surfaces, and loose gravel to see how well the tread grips on different surfaces. To test traction, we perform controlled slips on inclines and declines, both wet and dry, to understand how effectively the outsole bites the ground – or doesn’t. We analyze the rubber compound used in the outsole so we can assess tackiness.
STABILITY
For stability, we focus on features like arch support and heel cups, which are critical for maintaining balance. We test stability by hiking on varied terrain like rocky paths and uneven trails to see how well sandals keep our footing secure and prevent possible ankle rolling. To assess lateral stability, we perform side-to-side movements and quick direction changes, watching for any wobbling or slipping within the sandal. The rigidity of the sole is tested by applying pressure on the edges to ensure it provides a strong platform without excessive flexing. To understand stability, we conduct incline and decline tests so we can see how well the sandals support the foot when moving uphill and downhill without sliding forward or backward.
ADJUSTABILITY
We examine the design of the straps and buckles, checking how easily they can be adjusted around the toes, midfoot, and heel to achieve the most secure, snug fit. To test the customizability of the sandals, we repeatedly adjust the straps and fastenings to understand if they maintain their grip, and most importantly, don’t loosen over time. We evaluate the placement of the straps to make sure they don’t cause pressure points or discomfort during extended wear. Just like any footwear, we look for sandals that come in a range of sizes, from wide to narrow, so we can see how well sandals will cater to different foot shapes and sizes. Additionally, we consider the ease of putting the sandals on and taking them off to understand how convenient and fast they are for on / off. We go on many long hikes to assess how well the fit and adjustability of the sandals maintain their comfort and security in all sorts of terrains.
DURABILITY
Durability comes down to the materials used, so we scrutinize the strength of the sole, the build of the straps, and the integrity of the stitching, looking at how burly and long-lasting they are. We perform rough abrasion tests on the outsoles by hiking for hours over rough and rocky terrains over many days and weeks to see how well the sandals withstand wear and tear. To evaluate the durability of straps and buckles, we constantly adjust and stress them to see how they wear over time. Construction quality is equally important, so we bend and twist the sandals to check for signs of weak points or potential areas of failure. We immerse the sandals in water and expose them to nonstop sunlight and heat to test their resistance to moisture and UV damage. We conduct long-term wear tests by taking sandals on extended multi-day hikes to see how well they maintain structural integrity in a spread of environmental conditions, from wet and muddy trails to dry, dusty routes.
VERSATILITY
Some sandals are better for specific activities than others. We test them for versatility by taking them on long, challenging trails from local routes to the high mountains to tough traveling days so we understand where they perform the best. We test sandals for water activities by immersing them in streams, lakes, and rivers and we carefully assess how well they maintain grip on wet surfaces – models that have quick-drying materials rise to the top. We adventure in these sandals all summer long to evaluate different pairs’ packability and look at how well they travel in a suitcase or backpack. And, we test their versatility in different conditions, from hot sidewalks in our neighborhoods to the backcountry. We also look at their aesthetics and styling to see how well they transition from solo trips in the backcountry to social hour at the brewery.
Why Trust CleverHiker
We’ve adventured thousands of miles through scorching deserts, crossed raging rivers, and climbed some of the tallest mountains in the country in sandals to determine the best options for your next hike. Gear Analyst, Ian Krammer, our lead sandals tester, has spent hundreds of days navigating the Colorado Rockies in different sandals over the last decade to understand how each pair holds up to the toughest routes. He’s even summited 21 Colorado peaks over 14,000 feet in sandals. Ian’s deep expertise in gear testing and his extensive experience in the field allow him to pinpoint features that make sandals exceptional. Thanks to rigorous testing in a variety of conditions, we guarantee that our top picks will provide the support, durability, and comfort you need out of any hiking sandal.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
We chose this curated list of hiking sandals based on their performance, regardless of their cost. While we have some excellent budget-friendly options, the true value of a pair of sandals goes way beyond the price tag. Keep in mind that investing in pricier options often translates to better longevity, a better fit, and overall more user happiness, although we include many very affordable options with performance that exceed our expectations.
Our most budget-friendly sandals are the Teva Original Universal. At less than $60 for a pair, tThese are durable, simple, and high-quality sandals built to last. We love these sandals for their highly adjustable Velcro straps, making them fast to put on and take off, and thanks to a cushioned footbed, they offer super comfortable all-day support. The Original Universals are quick-drying and water-ready for summers along the river or lake. This model is an awesome value for the price and is great for everything from long hikes to lounging.
Another affordable option, the Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV offer exceptional value thanks to their combination of durability, comfort, and versatility. Built with durable materials and reinforced stitching, these sandals excel in rugged environments, offering great traction, long-term performance, and reliability. Plus, they’re easy to adjust and super comfortable with a flexible sole and adjustable straps so you can dial in the perfect fit for you. We highly recommend the Z-Trail EVs for hiking, playing in the water, or kicking it at camp.
The best bang for your buck may just be the ultra burly Chaco’s Z/1 Classic and Z/Cloud sandals. These things are an outstanding value because they’re so durable, comfortable, and performance-oriented. Built with super grippy outsoles and adjustable webbing straps, these are the 4WD sandals you never knew you needed, easily handling rugged routes with unrivaled traction. Plus, they’re super comfortable – although they need a bit of a break-in period for your feet to get used to the straps – but once they’ve softened a bit, you can use either model whether you’re on a patio or a thru-hike.
Finally, we love the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pros. They stand out for their exceptional value as one of the most lightweight, comfortable, and versatile sandals on our list. Don’t be fooled by the thin, flexible soles – these sandals are seriously durable and offer awesome traction from sand to slick roots. The anatomically molded footbed and adjustable straps make for one of the most customizable fits of any sandal we tested, and they’re minimalist enough to feel agile and fast no matter where you’re headed.
COMFORT
Year after year, we find the Chaco Z/1 Classic sandals are incredibly comfortable, making them a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking all-day support. They’re flexible through the sole, offer ergonomic arch support and cushioning, and are easy to wear for long hours of hiking and walking. In fact, Senior Gear Analyst, Casey Handley, hiked the entire Appalachian Trail and the Arizona Trail in these sandals and found them just as comfortable on the first day on the trail as on the last. The adjustable polyester webbing straps provide a customizable fit, further enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of chafing or pain.
The Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro is a close second when it comes to comfort, making it an excellent choice for adventurers seeking solid support on the trails. These sandals feature an anatomically molded footbed that feels great on your feet right out of the box, and hyper-adjustable straps for a personalized fit and exceptional cushioning on medium to long hikes or extended wear. While the strap between the toes may not be for everyone, these sandals might change your mind – the material is impressively soft, very easy on the skin, and nonabrasive. The minimalist design is much thinner, more flexible, and lighter than the Chaco Z/1s, making the Cairn Evo 3D Pros dramatically less bulky and lower in overall weight, which promotes agility and a smooth, comfy ride during hikes of any length.
Rounding out the top three for comfort is the KEEN Newport H2. These sandals are a dream right out of the box, especially for folks who want the support and cushioning of a shoe but the breathability and freedom of a sandal. With an anatomical EVA footbed and compression-molded midsole, these sandals offer killer comfort and shock absorption, ensuring a smooth ride on any terrain. The hydrophobic mesh lining provides quick-drying comfort and breathability to keep your toes safe in wet conditions.
TRACTION
Our top picks for traction are the Chaco Z/1 Classic, Luna Mono Winged, and the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro. All of these sandals have quality outsoles made with different rubber blends that provide excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces, so they’re perfect for hiking on trails in all sorts of environments. These sandals are at the top of the list for their tread pattern. We look for deep, multi-directional lugs that provide better traction, especially on uneven and slippery terrain.
STABILITY
The Chaco Z/1 Classic is one of the most stable shoes we’ve tested thanks to its cushy but firm midsole. It provides excellent arch support and shock absorption. The adjustable webbing straps ensure a custom fit that keeps the foot securely in place, preventing unwanted movement on uneven terrain. The sandal’s robust construction makes it durable and capable of maintaining stability over long hikes, and the open-toe design offers top-tier ventilation with the necessary support and security for cruising over roots, rocks, and rough trails.
A close runner-up, the KEEN Newport H2 offers secure, closed-toe construction and a multi-directional lug pattern with a relatively wide, slightly flexible footbed that feels strong and reliable on almost any surface. The sandal’s wide EVA midsole offers superior cushioning and shock absorption, which is essential for maintaining stability on rocky trails.
We highly recommend the ECCO Yucatan as well, with its durable rubber outsole and a tread pattern designed for optimal grip on wet, dry, and slippery surfaces. This model’s direct-injected PU midsole provides long-lasting stability, and the adjustable heel strap lends a secure fit that makes it a great option for taking care of business in town to medium-length hikes, and everything in between.
ADJUSTABILITY
The Chaco Z/1 Classic stands out for its adjustable webbing strap system. By threading the polyester straps through the midsole, the entire system easily adjusts to accommodate various foot shapes and sizes. The continuous strap design allows precise adjustments around the toe, across the instep, and around the heel for a super personalized fit. We like the simple, sturdy buckle to lock the straps in place and prevent slippage and the best fit throughout your hike. Not only does this level of adjustability make for an especially comfy ride, but it also improves stability, since it secures your foot position so well.
We also love the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro, which features an innovative strap system with three adjustable areas at the toe, heel, and ankle. You’ll be able to quickly and easily fine-tune the fit for the utmost comfort and support, keeping the nadal in place exactly where you want it. The clever hook-and-loop closure system makes adjustments fast and easy, allowing for on-the-go modifications without needing to constantly fix or rethread the sandal. The straps are made from durable, quick-drying materials, making this model a great choice for wet and dry conditions while maintaining a reliable fit.
Finally, one of the most adjustable options is the Luna Mono Winged. As the name implies, these have a unique “winged” strap system that offers awesome adjustability. The wings wrap around the foot, providing a customizable fit that can be fine-tuned on top of the foot and at the heel. The robust buckle keeps straps in place once adjusted, and this model makes it easy to achieve a snug fit that minimizes movement on tough trails.
DURABILITY
The Chaco Z/1 Classic is one of the most durable sandals out there thanks to its high-quality construction and robust materials. The midsole is exceptionally thick and tough, and the strong rubber outsole is top-of-the-line for resisting abrasion, making it one of the longest-lasting models on our list – even after extensive wear. The jacquard webbing straps are incredibly durable, resisting fraying and maintaining their integrity when wet or dry. Because there are so few weak points, like stitching, attachments, or pieces, these Chacos are built for longevity.
The Astral Webbers are a close runner-up, also with lightweight, durable materials that make them one of the longer-lasting options we’ve tested. The sandal’s outsole is made from tacky, durable rubber, and the midsole features EVA foam, both of which maintain their integrity and functionality over time. The adjustable webbing straps are constructed from light, sturdy materials that resist wear and tear, even in rugged outdoor environments. Plus, the overall design minimizes stitching and seams, which helps to prevent potential points of failure and enhances the sandal’s durability.
VERSATILITY
When it comes to sandals you can wear anywhere – and for almost any activity – the top choices are the Chaco Z/1 Classic, ECCO Yucatan, and the Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV. Each one of these models offers outstanding versatility beyond hiking – from trekking up mountains and across deserts, to finding your seat on the airplane or staying comfy on long road trips, to a casual dinner on the town or board game nights in the backyard, these models can handle it all. The combination of adjustable straps, customizable fits, quick-drying materials, and stylish builds makes the Z/1 Classics, Yucatans, and Z-Trail EVs the most convenient and versatile from town to trail. Whether you’re crossing a pristine creek for the perfect campsite – or a patio concrete for another drink – these are versatile sandals for your next warm-weather outing.
How to Choose Hiking Sandals
Sizing
Sandal sizing is not as straightforward as shoe sizing. Some sandals are measured by where your arch lands, and others by the distance between the edges of the sandals and the tip of your toes or heels. We highly recommend trying sandals on in person before making a purchase. Luckily, most sandals on this list are highly adjustable, so you can dial in the fit that’s perfect for you.
Traction
Traction is one of the most important parts of any backpacking and hiking footwear. Your shoes will take you over narrow and rocky ridgelines, through slippery water crossings, and across loose scree fields. Sandals should keep you from slipping in precarious terrain like slick roots, wet rocks, and washed-out or exposed sections of trail. We heavily factor quality traction into all of our footwear recommendations.
Socks
Socks and sandals aren’t “cool”? Says who! Wear what’s comfortable and practical on the trail. Socks help keep our toes warm while camping in sandals, and they reduce friction and limit hotspots while walking. We’re big fans of the Injinji toe socks because they work well with all straps and, since there’s a bit of padding between each toe, they are next-level comfortable. Our go-to for cool weather hiking is a pair of warm Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks, and for winter conditions or crossing alpine snowfields and tundra, we love the burly Darn Tough Mountaineering Socks. Pop over to our Best Hiking Socks for more options to make a fashion statement and keep your piggies warm at the same time.
Managing Moisture & Blisters
There’s very little more satisfying than charging through a stream or creek without slowing down to remove your footwear. But, wet sandal straps can collect dirt and grime and rub your skin over time. Our favorite tip for water crossings and wet days in sandals? Bring along a pack towel to dry off your feet and sandals and stop hotspots before they start. Also, consider adding Leukotape or RockTape as core additions to your kit to fend off blisters and prevent irritation. Take a look at our guide on How to Prevent and Treat Blisters so you can keep your feet pain-free mile after mile.
Exposed Toes
Sandals expose your toes and feet to all sorts of obstructions and dangers from exposure to elements, sharp rocks, poison ivy, brambles, bugs, and snakes. But, you can easily mitigate the threat of injury or discomfort with a few preventative actions:
- Sun exposure – Don’t forget a quality SPF sunscreen and reapply consistently every few hours to prevent the tops of your feet and toes from burning.
- Loose rocks – Kicking a loose rock or tripping over a sharp edge is a special type of pain. You’ll need to pay more attention to where you’re stepping when hiking in sandals, especially on technical trail sections and rocky areas.
- Cold conditions – A quality pair of socks and sandals is a practical and efficient combo when your toes are getting cold. To find the best socks for your next sandal hiking adventure, scope our list of the Best Hiking Socks.
Notes for First-Time Sandals Hikers
If you’re a recent convert to hiking in sandals, here are some things you should know. For even more advice check out our post on the Pros and Cons of Hiking in Sandals.
- Break-in – Many hiking sandals have a short break-in period to loosen up the strap material, so it’s a good idea to wear them around town for a couple of days before hitting the trail.
- Start small – We recommend starting out with shorter hikes to get used to hiking in sandals, it’s quite different from hiking in shoes.
- Avoiding blisters – Bring along a roll of athletic tape (we like Leukotape or RockTape) to address any hot spots that form.
- Try more than one – If the first pair of sandals you try isn’t exactly right, try a different one! There are so many options out there and they all perform differently.
CONCLUSION
We hope this detailed guide has given you the insights you need to choose the perfect hiking sandals for your adventures. By considering factors like comfort, traction, adjustability, stability, durability, and versatility, you’ll find the perfect pair to meet all your needs. Remember, with the right sandals, even the roughest trails will feel like a walk in the park.
