When it comes to hiking, wearing the right footwear is crucial. While hiking boots are often the go-to option for many hikers, hiking sandals can be a great alternative, especially in warmer weather.
But with so many versions on the market, it can be hard to determine which hiking sandals are the best for your needs.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at hiking sandals and explore some of the top options available.
It’s important to choose the right type of hiking sandals for the type of hike you’ll be doing.
Take into account the terrain, weather, and length of the hike when selecting your footwear.
Key Takeaways
- There are different types of hiking sandals available, each designed for specific hiking terrains and activities. The best hiking sandals are the ones that fit your hiking type best!
- When choosing hiking sandals, consider the environment, terrain, and activity level you will be engaging in. Look for sandals that offer proper support, traction, and protection.
- Materials used in hiking sandals play a crucial role in their durability and comfort. Consider the type of material and its breathability, waterproofing, and adjustability features.
Contents
The Best Hiking Sandals Are The Ones That Fit Your Hiking Type
When it comes to choosing the best hiking sandals, it’s important to understand that not all sandals are produced the same.
While some sandals may be comfortable for casual walks or light hikes, they may not provide the necessary support or protection for more challenging terrain or longer hikes.
Before making a purchase, consider the type of hiking you’ll be doing and the environment you’ll be in.
If you want to trek through rocky or uneven terrain, sandals with good traction and a secure fit are great to prevent slips and falls. Look for sandals with thick, durable soles that can withstand rough terrain.
Similarly, for wet or muddy conditions, choose sandals with water-resistant or waterproof materials to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Sandals made with quick-drying materials like nylon or polyester can also come in handy in wet conditions.
As for hot and dry conditions, sandals with breathable materials and ample ventilation can help keep your feet cool and prevent blisters or chafing. Look for sandals with mesh or perforated materials that allow air to flow through and prevent sweat buildup.
It’s also important to consider the type of hiking you’ll be doing. For casual day hikes, you may be able to get away with lighter sandals that prioritize comfort over support. However, for longer hikes or more challenging terrain, you’ll want sandals with more support and protection.
In summary, the best hiking sandals are the ones that are suitable for the specific terrain, environment, and hiking type you’ll be facing. Be sure to consider these factors before making a purchase to ensure you get the most comfortable and supportive sandals for your needs.
Several important factors to consider
Terrain
Consider the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on. Is it rocky terrain, wet terrain, or a combination of both?
Sandals with good traction and sturdy soles are important for rocky terrain, while sandals with water-resistant materials are born for wet terrain.
Fit and Comfort
Hiking sandals should fit properly and provide ample support for your feet. Look for sandals with adjustable straps that can be tightened or loosened as needed.
Make sure there is enough cushioning to protect your feet from rough terrain.
Breathability
Hiking sandals should be breathable to keep your feet cool and dry.
Look for sandals made from materials such as mesh or synthetic fabrics that allow air to flow through.
Weight
Lightweight hiking sandals are ideal for long hikes or backpacking trips, as they won’t weigh you down.
However, heavier sandals may provide more support and durability, so it’s important to find a balance that works for you.
Hiking Type
The type of hiking you’ll be doing is an important factor to consider when choosing hiking sandals. Will you do day hikes or longer backpacking trips?
Sandals with more support and cushioning are important for longer trips, while lighter sandals may be sufficient for shorter hikes.
Durability
Hiking sandals should be durable enough to withstand the rigors of hiking.
Look for sandals with sturdy soles, durable straps, and high-quality materials that will hold up over time.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best hiking sandals for your needs and preferences.
Types of hiking sandals and How to Use them
Closed-Toe Hiking Sandals
These sandals provide a lot of protection for your toes and are great for hikes that involve rough terrain or scrambling over rocks.
They also work well for hikes that involve water crossings, as they can help prevent your feet from getting scraped up on rocks.
- WATER-RESISTANT: Washable polyester webbing featuring quick dry lining for active use in and out of...
- SUPPORT: Lace lock bungee capture system provides a secure fit while offering a quick and easy way...
- FIT & COMFORT: Built on a women specific foot form that is wider than the industry norm for improved...
Last update on 2023-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
When using closed-toe hiking sandals, it’s important to make sure they fit well and don’t rub or chafe your feet.
Open-Toe Hiking Sandals
These sandals are great for hikes in hot weather or areas with lots of water, as they allow your feet to breathe and dry quickly.
They’re also a good choice for less technical hikes that don’t involve a lot of scrambling or rough terrain.
Last update on 2023-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
When using open-toe hiking sandals, be aware that your toes are more exposed and can be susceptible to injury.
Minimalist Hiking Sandals
These sandals are designed for hikers who prefer a minimalist approach to footwear. They’re lightweight and flexible, which makes them great for hikes that involve a lot of walking or running.
Minimalist hiking sandals are designed to provide a barefoot-like feel, allowing you to feel the terrain beneath your feet and maintain a natural gait. This can enhance your hiking experience by helping you to better navigate uneven terrain and feel more connected to nature.
- CUSTOMIZED FIT – Say goodbye to the guesswork of purchasing sandals online. The Siena womens...
- EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY – Trust in Viakix to deliver high-quality, comfortable walking sandals women....
- ARCH SUPPORT – Viakix uses proprietary arch stabilizer technology to provide ergonomic arch...
Last update on 2023-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
They’re not recommended for hikes that involve rough terrain or scrambling, as they don’t provide a lot of protection for your feet.
When using minimalist hiking sandals, it’s important to start with short hikes to allow your feet to adjust to the new style of footwear.
Amphibious Hiking Sandals
These sandals are designed for hikers who want a versatile option that can be used on both land and water. They’re great for hikes that involve water crossings or for exploring streams and rivers.
- EVA FOOTBED: The cushiony EVA yoga mat insole are soft and can absorb impact. The foot bed is...
- ARCH SUPPORT: The arch support built into the sandal can help provide support to the foot while...
- QUICK-DRY & DURABLE: Polyester webbing upper is extremely durable and dries quickly after getting...
Last update on 2023-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
When using amphibious hiking sandals, be aware that they may not provide as much support as other types of hiking sandals, so they may not be the best choice for long hikes on rough terrain.
Water-Friendly Hiking Sandals
Water-friendly hiking sandals are designed for use in and around water, making them a good option for activities like river crossings or beach hikes.
They are typically made from materials that can withstand water and dry quickly, such as neoprene or synthetic materials.
- WATER-RESISTANT: Quick dry washable synthetic straps and lining for active use in and out of the...
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: Lace lock bungee capture system provides a secure fit while offering quick and...
- TRACTION & PROTECTION: Multi directional lugs with siping channels provide superior grip on slippery...
Last update on 2023-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Athletic Sandals
Athletic sandals are designed for more intense hikes and rougher terrain. They usually have a sturdy sole and a strap system that provides extra support and stability.
Athletic sandals are also breathable and lightweight, which makes them perfect for long hikes in hot weather.
- Sporty sandal featuring logo and multiple straps with hook-and-loop closures
- Nylon stability shank
- Compression-molded EVA midsole
Last update on 2023-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
By understanding these factors and using the right type of hiking sandals, you can make your hiking experience more comfortable, enjoyable, and safe.
Remember, the best hiking sandals are the ones that are suitable for the specific terrain, environment, and hiking type you’ll be facing, so choose wisely.
