9 Best Hiking Sandals of 2022 (And Buying Guide)

Going hiking requires preparation that will keep you safe in the rough landscapes. You need to plan your trail, get the right equipment, and wear the right clothes. But what about footwear hiking boots, sandals, flip flops?

Specialized hiking footwear will protect your feet from the harsh terrain. Rocky, rough, unsafe, and very long trails require the added protection of hiking boots, but warm climates and tame trails are perfect for hiking sandals. These may not be the traditional hiking footwear, but their lightweight, breathability, comfort, and versatility have made them a popular option.

This article will help you find your perfect hiking sandals by exploring features to consider and looking at the 9 best hiking sandals available on the market right now.

If you are upgrading your entire hiking gear, you might also be interested in the 8 Best Hiking Pants of 2022.

Important Things to Consider When Buying Hiking Sandals

Comfort

The first thing you need to keep in mind is that the best hiking sandals will be the pair you are most comfortable in. Hiking is a long and tiring activity. No cool features can compensate for your feet being in pain, so considering specifications such as arch support, type of closure system, weight, and sole, among others, is of high priority. In short, you should love the hiking sandals that you get.

Some hikers prefer a heel strap with buckles to secure their feet, while others prefer the quickness of Velcro straps. Bungee laces are another option to look into if you plan on frequently exposing your hiking sandals to water.

Every hiker’s feet need as much arch support as possible for something as strenuous. Still, we particularly recommend brands that emphasize such support for those with higher arches or plantar fasciitis. In addition, a lot of your comfort depends on your foot type.

For example, people with broad and flat feet would like a flat sandals, but others find their feet aching in them.

The hiking sandals’ weight also affects your comfort level. This hiking footwear is known for its low weight, but there is still a wide range of weights available, the weight increasing as shoes become more specialized and offer soles for more challenging trails.

Again, some prefer bedrock sandals, while others would be more comfortable in a thinner sole. It all comes down to your personal preference. What are you comfortable in?

Intended Use

The next thing to think about is where you will be using your hiking sandals. There are huge differences between hiking sandals made for backpacking or hiking on rocky trails and those designed for hiking along coastal beaches, river crossings, and other wet areas.

In addition, with the gaining popularity, hiking shoes are now also commonly used for water sports, while many purchase these for general, everyday wear.

You need supportive hiking sandals to handle the challenging and uneven terrain on a long hike if you hike on trails. This means well-cushioned and thick midsoles, a sticky outsole full of deep threads and large lugs (knobs) to hold your feet in place, and additional support systems like nylon or TPU shanks. In addition, underfoot support and comfortable webbing will prevent you from injuries.

On the other hand, if you routinely encounter wet regions, you would benefit from closed-toe hiking sandals. Even in those, you should be looking for special features like drainage ports to remove water. Also, it is important to have flat soles with less pronounced lugs for improved grip over slippery rocks and a rubber sole with synthetic uppers that make it waterproof and dry quickly.

If you want to do both, a combo with toe coverage and thicker sole for grip on both dry and wet grounds might work for you. On the other hand, less specialized and well-rounded options exist if you want to do neither of these but only wear them around the town in casual settings and once-in-a-while outdoor adventures.

This goes to show that there will be an option for everyone and all kinds of activities, which is why figuring out the intended use is of utmost importance.

Fit

The sizing of hiking sandals is a bit different than other sandals and may also vary brand-wise as some measure according to where your arch lands, while others do by the space between your foot tip and the shoe’s front and rear edges.

There is no point in investing in the best hiking sandals if they rub in the wrong places, cause hotspots and pressure points, or be so tight that they are uncomfortable.

You need to be conscious about your size and account for facts such as that feet swell in the heat. Therefore, the straps should not be so tight that they cannot accommodate this increase.

Similarly, suppose you are someone who wears socks with hiking sandals or alternate between on and off. In that case, we recommend accounting for this change too when picking a size.

A good fit will maximize the sandal’s performance, and the key to doing that is looking for a snug (not tight) fight around the whole foot with minimal movement inside as you walk. If you are very confused, hiking sandals with adjustable straps is one way to go about it.

Style

Footwear is a critical part of your outfit and when it comes to that, style is a top priority for many. Hiking sandals, over hiking shoes, are known for their versatility and if you plan to wear them in other social settings like an outdoor barbecue or a club night with your friends, liking how they look is important.

This might not be a significant concern for hikers who solely use their sandals for physical activity.

Like comfort, the style also comes down to personal preference. Some prefer one type of closure system over the other, while others look for color options. Minimalist sandals are also a popular option. Open-toe sandals are generally considered more fashionable than closed-toe, but find what makes you happy.

Price

We recommend looking over your budget before you splurge on something extravagant. Many budget hiking sandals perform exceptionally well and are great to start with. Still, suppose you are in it for the long haul. In that case, premium quality products offer higher durability, and comfort and are more specialized when it comes to protecting your feet.

Best Hiking Sandals: Our Favorite Top Picks of 2022

Best Overall Hiking Sandals

Chaco Z/Cloud

• Weight: 1.81 pounds
• Closure: Strap with Buckle
• Pros: designed for all kinds of hiking, comfortable, durable, excellent support, highly adjustable, multiple colors, customizability
• Cons: Heavy and bulky, straps difficult to adjust with dirt buildup, straps uncomfortable when wet

Details

Chaco is at the forefront of the hiking sandal industry, and it is no surprise that we consider this product of theirs the best hiking sandal. This holds true to ‘hiking’ in its name because it can handle any impact, is durable, and is extremely comfortable with a well-cushioned midsole that also provides a soft and springy landing. So if you want hiking sandals for hiking, this is it.

With a range of colors and patterns on offer, you can even customize your hiking sandals. Besides supporting your feet on trails, this hiking sandal also does a great job of holding them in place.

Its premium fit and modifiable straps cater to all types of feet, but the heel strap can be challenging in tricky conditions. For example, it may cause blisters when wet and sandy and are a little difficult to adjust when dirt builds up.

However, they are still the best hiking sandals for durability, comfort, and support. Their design may be bulky and heavy, but that is a testament to how perfect it is for hikers. It is hands-down the best hiking sandal.

Best Overall Hiking Sandals – A Close Second

ECCO Yucatan

• Weight: 1.51 pounds
• Closure: Strap with Velcro
• Pros: Perfect for high arches, Excellent support, durable, comfortable footbed
• Cons: Outdated style, Expensive, Heavy and bulky

Details

If your feet need as much help as they can get for the most challenging trails out there or due to a high arch, and budget is not an issue, look no further than the ECCO Yucatan hiking sandals. Among all the hiking sandals, this offers the most arch support. Its thick and cushy layer of midsole foam, molded footbed, and intricate lug pattern offer the best hiking experience without compromising on comfort.

It is sturdy on the outside but soft on the inside. Its premium leather feels comfortable against the skin. Its three-strap system offers the most snug fit, eliminating any unwanted movement. The stretchy material further helps get that perfect fit. Given the price, everyone is paying and the top-notch materials it uses, forget about replacing them anytime soon.

What doesn’t work in these athletic sandals is their design. It reminds us of the classic ‘dad sandals’, which are quite dated. Given their bulky outlook and sturdy nature, you are probably getting these for extra coverage and protection and will only wear them for hiking. The durability and support of ECCO Yucatan are unmatchable, making it one of the best hiking sandals available.

Best Budget Hiking Sandals

Teva Original Universal

• Weight: 0.84 pounds
• Closure: Strap with Velcro
• Pros: Stylish, Youth-friendly, Budget-friendly, Comfortable, Odorless
• Cons: Not ideal for long distances, poor support, not highly adjustable

Details

Take a look at these hiking sandals. That image will probably stay in your mind because it’s quirky, aesthetically pleasing, and colorful design is very memorable. Teva’s use of vibrant colors is why this pair of shoes is fun and trendy and the go-to pair for people who need a camp shoe or something for light physical activity and everyday wear.

It comes at almost half of what the premium hiking sandals ask for and is quite comfortable, making it one of the best hiking sandals you could get. Its lateral straps are padded underneath, and the foam construction is well-cushioned, giving your feet a light and airy feel. Its outsole, however, is quite thin, making this unfeasible for long distances or wet surfaces, resulting in feet aches.

The absence of a buckle makes these hiking sandals a bit less adjustable than their competitors, but given how much they cost, we can’t complain. It is still perfect for everyday wear. One interesting feature that caught our eye in this budget hiking sandal was the zinc-based footbed that is soft and has an antimicrobial coat that makes it odorless.

Best Closed Toe Hiking Sandals

KEEN Newport H2

• Weight: 2.01 pounds
• Closure: Bungee laces
• Pros: protective, durable, excellent for water use, comfortable, convenient
• Cons: not for everyday wear, heavy and bulky, not breathable, confusing sizing

Details

If your idea of outdoor fun involves fishing, kayaking, river crossings, or other water activities, Keen Newport H2 offers the best closed-toe hiking sandals. Its thick rubber toe cap, burly outsole, and polyester upper covering provide toe protection against unwanted impact on rocks and roots and feel amazing in water.

Its bulkiness also makes it suitable for a hiking trail. The well-cushioned built and decent arch support makes it super comfortable. However, that same heavy feel minimizes its everyday friendliness, but besides that, this is a highly convenient hiking sandal. The bungee laces ensure a tight fit and make it easy to wear and remove.

Suppose you decide to go for this closed-toe hiking sandal. In that case, we recommend double-checking the sizing chart as these are a bit smaller than other hiking sandals.

Other Best Hiking Sandals

Xero Z-Trail EV

• Weight: 0.75 pounds
• Closure: Strap with buckle
• Pros: ultralight, comfortable, flexible, minimalist, feel connected to the trail
• Cons: no support and padding, low durability, not very adjustable

Details

If you are a minimalist that wants to feel connected to the trail they are on, this hiking sandal is for you. The lightest one on the list has a 0mm drop between the heel and toe, making it perfect for flat feet, and almost feels like you are not wearing anything. This minimal padding is exactly what many are looking for, hence their inclusion in the best hiking sandals, but it doesn’t feel enough for others.

These minimalist sandals are comfortable, with sturdy soles, adjustable straps, and flexibility so high you can bend them. Still, it takes some a while to get used to them. This minimalism is not exclusively performance-oriented. The thin midsole foam doesn’t support feet at all, and the narrow straps feel a bit loose.

We do not recommend taking these on tough trails, but since they float, you can take them for kayaking or paddleboarding or use them as a camp shoes. The minimalism, feathery feel, and versatility in general use make this a great pair of best-hiking sandals.

KEEN Clearwater CNX

• Weight: 1.18 pounds
• Closure: Bungee laces
• Pros: suitable for water use, versatile, protective, comfortable, stylish design
• Cons: not breathable, bulky design

Details

Offering similar benefits to the KEEN Newport H2 hiking sandals, it just falls short on breathability. This hiking sandal is also excellent for water sports and river crossings and regular hikes. Besides protecting your toes from pointy river rocks and other unwanted substances, they are also quick drying.

As expected of all best hiking sandals, this one also offers remarkable protection (thanks to its contoured arch that improves midfoot support) and comfort and sports an impressive design. What doesn’t work here is a shortage of breathability. While wonderful at toe protection, the upper strap system and bulky design make your feet feel a bit closed off, like a hiking shoe, which is not ideal.

Overall, its lightweight nature, versatility, and ability to work wonders in water stand out, making it one of the best hiking sandals in 2022.

Teva Terra Fi 5

• Weight: 1.74 pounds
• Closure: Strap with velcro
• Pros: most comfortable hiking sandal, solid traction, cushy, soft, excellent support, eco friendly
• Cons: not suitable for all feet types, heavy

This hiking sandal feels like walking on memory foam or clouds. Its cushy footbed with a molded PU midsole and soft straps against the skin makes for the most comfortable experience you could find in a hiking sandal, and this comfort does not come at the cost of performance.

The thick midsole makes it suitable for a wide variety of surfaces, and the deep lugs on the rubber outsole underneath offer phenomenal grip. It even has a TPU shank that further enhances stability. The straps cater to your feet, and you can tweak them from three points – heat, toe, and ankle. Given their padded build, efficient straps, toe loop, and enough arch support, this pair of hiking sandals are a versatile purchase.

However, this may not be it for all feet types. The bracket between the straps on the ankles outside can rub some feet and ankles, depending on foot shapes. They are also a little heavy, but we don’t mind since it wins the hiking sandal category of comfort, we don’t mind. The cherry on the top is its eco-friendliness because this hiking sandal is recyclable via Teva’s TevaForever program.

Hoka One One Hopara

• Weight: 0.75 pounds
• Closure: Bungee laces
• Pros: lightweight, strong cushioning, excellent support and grip, bouncy
• Cons: padding uncomfortable for some, low durability of the heel, too disconnected to the trail

Details

Another lightweight hiking sandal on this list, this bouncy and energetic piece of footwear, is known for its super thick padding – Hoka’s specialty. Its burly heel contains a 5mm drop from heel to toe, which makes for excellent cushioning when going on tough hikes, which is further helped by the rubberized EVA midsole, deep outsole, 4mm deep multidirectional lugs that improve traction, and a thick rubber top for toe protection.

The sole is comfortable, and it has a neoprene collar inside which enhances the softness of this hiking sandal. One interesting feature is the drainage cutouts on the upper surface, making this sandal versatile. You can wear it all day in all kinds of outdoor activities, be it moderate hikes or water sports like paddle boating.

While it does all this in the lightest weight possible, giving a bouncy feel, it doesn’t work for everyone. Some feel too disconnected to the ground while others find the thick padding uncomfortable for their foot angle. There have been durability concerns with the thin layer of stitching in the heel, but overall, the comfort and cushioning of these hiking sandals override those grievances.

Bedrock Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals

• Weight: 1.51 pounds
• Closure: Strap with Velcro and Buckle
• Pros: extremely comfortable, adjustable, lightweight, efficient traction, versatile
• Cons: Lack of arch support, the Y-shaped strap may be initially annoying

Details

Cairn 3d Adventure bedrock sandals are among the most popular everyday wear hiking footwear due to their low weight and comfort. However, it is not just a casual sandal because its Vibram sole provides excellent traction over all kinds of surfaces, including rock and dirt.

Let’s first talk about how comfortable these hiking sandals are. The footbed is ergonomic and flexible, the cushioning is soft, and the straps’ design is super breathable. You can adjust the position of your heel, the toe strap, and the volume of your feet according to what works for you, and that lends it a very natural feel.

It is also one of the lightest and safest hiking sandals. The buckle at the front and the velcro at the back make it highly adjustable, fitting into any shoe type, and the toe loop prevents the foot from slipping forward on inclined landscapes.

The Y-shaped strait is a bit uncomfortable initially, but it gets better. What made the Chacos snag the top spot was the absence of arch support in these bedrock sandals. The thin, zero-drop design minimizes arch support and makes these unsuitable for long or multi-day hikes. However, its versatility, comfort, and breathability are enough to land it on this list of best-hiking sandals.

Conclusion

Hiking sandals are valuable to any footwear collection, especially as an alternative for your hiking shoe. Of course, using any other sandals on rough landscapes is not a safe option for your feet but if you’re concerned about their utility, remember that hiking sandals are highly versatile. There is so much you can do with water sports to casual hangouts with them, provided you choose the right pair. So, if you love to wear sandals and like the outdoors, why not bring the two together?

To make your choice easy, I have included the main advantage of each hiking sandals below:

After reading this article, I hope you have enough information to choose among these options confidently. Thoroughly consider their pros and cons, and you will soon have your favorite hiking sandals.