Top 6 Women's Hiking Sandals: Our Tested Recommendations

Best Overall

Outdoor enthusiasts regard Bedrock as a top brand in footwear, and we wholeheartedly agree. The Cairn Adventure sandals are impressively durable and comfortable for both water and land activities. Weighing almost nothing, these sandals feature Vibram outsoles that offer superior grip in dry conditions, and we found their traction equally impressive in wet environments. After five months of use, we prefer these over flip-flops or less robust sandals for hiking in warm or wet weather. Initially, the T-shape strap feels a bit stiff, but after a few hours, the polyester and nylon material becomes more flexible, providing a cozy fit. The straps can be adjusted in three ways, and the plugless toe post is thin and stretchy, preventing any chafing or blisters. After numerous outdoor adventures, these sandals still look fantastic, assuring us of their long-lasting durability and top-notch construction.

Product Details: Sizes 6-14 | Strap and ladder lock buckle closure | Made of polyester and rubber | Weighs 1 pound

Top Stability

For traction and stability, the Teva Terra Fi 5 Sandals feature some of the thickest soles we’ve encountered on hiking sandals. Surprisingly lightweight, these sandals include a molded midsole that supports the foot for added durability. The arch support is immediately felt when worn, though it may be too elevated for some, providing a secure and comfortable experience during hikes. The two Velcro straps can be adjusted at the ankle and the top of the foot, allowing for a customizable fit. Additionally, padded cushioning between the polyester strap and the foot helps prevent chafing. It's worth noting that half-size options are unavailable, so we suggest sizing up if you're between sizes.

Product Details: Sizes 6-11 | Hook-and-loop Velcro closure | Made from EVA, recycled polyester, and polyurethane | Weighs 1.4 pounds

Ultimate Comfort

With the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association, the Ecco Yucatan Sport Sandals excel in foot health, providing exceptional comfort and support. These sandals are ready to wear right out of the box, featuring a soft microfiber-lined footbed and cushioned straps that eliminate chafing or blisters around the heel, ankle, and top of the foot. After five months of use, we still found them to be comfortable and supportive, with impressive traction and arch support. The adjustable straps allow for a personalized fit, and the footbed strikes a perfect balance between cushioning and support for all-day wear. The rubber outsole delivers excellent traction for stability in both dry and wet conditions, while the moisture-wicking lining helps keep odors at bay. One downside is that the microfiber footbed tends to collect dirt, making it appear dirty, so occasional rinsing or spot-cleaning may be necessary.

Specifications: Sizes 4-12 | Velcro closure | Textile, EVA, rubber | 1.38 pounds

Top Durability

These sandals are likely to last a lifetime. With their tightly woven polyester straps and sturdy rubber sole, the Z Cloud Sandal’s high-quality craftsmanship makes them a worthwhile investment. The traction on the outsole and webbing on the footbed provided excellent stability, preventing any slipping during wet hiking adventures. The straps dry quickly if they get wet, minimizing the chance of chafing between the toes or on the top of the foot. While the straps are adjustable, we initially found them a bit stiff and challenging to fit. However, once they loosen up, adjusting becomes much simpler for a perfect fit. Plus, Chaco offers a repair program, allowing you to send your sandals back for a second chance at life for a small fee. After five months of use, we did notice these sandals feel bulkier than some alternatives, but for those seeking durability, they are a fantastic long-term choice.

Product Specifications: Sizes 5-11 | Strap with ladder lock buckle closure | Made from polyester, polyurethane, and rubber | Weighs 1.5 pounds

Top Choice for Closed-toe

For those seeking a reliable adventure shoe, the Keen Newport sandals are perfect for various outdoor activities. With a thick rubber guard around the toe area, they provide superior protection compared to regular hiking sandals. The rubber soles boast outstanding traction due to their unique lug design, making them suitable for both land and water. The bungee lacing at the front allows for easy adjustment to secure the foot during hikes. While the cutout designs enhance breathability, we did experience some rocks and dirt entering the shoes, which was occasionally uncomfortable. Nevertheless, these sandals excel in water settings, particularly in lakes or rivers, where toe protection is crucial against rocks and debris.

Product Details: Sizes 5-11 | Bungee lace closure | Made of polyester and rubber | Weighs 12 ounces

Top Choice for Arch Support

Finding sandals with good arch support can be challenging, especially for those who prefer more structure than a flat shoe. Thankfully, Teva's Aliciela Sandal provides fantastic support from toe to heel. During our testing, we discovered these sandals were comfortable right from the start—no need for a break-in period. The adjustable straps allowed for a personalized fit, and the cushioned soles molded to our feet, reducing the chance of slipping. We wore them on various terrains, including concrete, gravel, dirt, and rocky beaches, without experiencing any discomfort, pinching, or blisters. Most importantly, our feet felt great even after extended wear. We're confident these durable sandals will stand the test of time.

Product Details: Sizes 5-11 | Hook-and-loop fastening | Made of EVA, nylon, and rubber | Weighs 14.7 ounces

Additional Hiking Sandals We Liked

The sandals listed below performed admirably, but we encountered minor comfort and fit issues, causing them to rank slightly lower than our top choices.

Chaco Z Cloud 2 Sandal: These sandals exude quality and durability, making them perfect for water activities, though we prefer the version that omits the toe strap.

Our Testing Methodology

We evaluated 10 pairs of hiking sandals from reputable brands known for outdoor gear. We specifically selected styles featuring beneficial attributes for hikers, such as padded straps, robust outsoles for grip, and arch support along with cushioning for enhanced comfort.

Each sandal was tested on at least two hikes exceeding an hour, where we noted aspects like comfort, durability, fit, and overall performance. Our tests spanned various climates and terrains from New York to Washington state, allowing us to gather diverse insights from our outdoor enthusiasts. Ultimately, our top picks for hiking sandals required minimal to no break-in time, provided an excellent mix of support and cushioning, and fit true to size with adjustable straps for added comfort.

Advice for Purchasing Women's Hiking Sandals

Take into account the climate and terrain

Understanding the climate and terrain is crucial for selecting the ideal hiking footwear for your adventure. If your hike involves water crossings, look for sandals that offer outstanding traction and stability on slippery surfaces. For trails with uneven ground, choose hiking sandals with closed toes for added protection. Furthermore, adjustable straps can be beneficial, allowing you to modify the fit in response to factors like foot swelling from heat or strap stretch when wet.

Prioritize adequate traction

Having good traction in your hiking shoes is vital for keeping your footing secure on the trail. The outsole should feature a complex pattern with deep lugs to prevent slipping and sliding. Additionally, the midsole and footbed should not be entirely smooth; they should provide some grip or cradling to help keep your foot securely in place within the shoe.

Seek out comfortable features

Given that you'll likely be on your feet for several hours during hikes, it's wise to choose hiking sandals featuring arch support, midsole cushioning, and padded straps for enhanced comfort. A well-designed footbed should balance adequate arch support with soft cushioning, and the straps must not dig into your skin or cause discomfort. Additionally, the straps should be adjustable in multiple areas, allowing you to tailor the fit around your feet for optimal stability and comfort.

Common Questions

• What is the proper fit for hiking sandals?

  Your toes should have sufficient space at the front to protect against rocks, sticks, or other hazards. Similar to hiking boots, the sandals should fit snugly without being overly tight or loose. If the straps are too loose, you may risk slipping and injuring yourself; conversely, overly tight straps can cause skin irritation. Remember to adjust the straps as needed throughout your hike, especially when breaking them in for the first time.

• When is it appropriate to wear hiking sandals instead of hiking boots?

  Hiking boots typically provide more protection than sandals, making them preferable for longer hikes. However, if you're engaging in outdoor activities where you might encounter water, hiking sandals are an excellent choice, as they can get wet while still offering considerable protection and support. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference; hiking sandals are ideal for more casual hikes in warmer weather.

Additional Sandals We Recommend

At Dinogo, travel shoes are our specialty, and we've tested numerous sandals ranging from outdoor to dressy options. Whether you're exploring trails, enjoying the beach, or navigating the city, here are some of our top-tested sandal picks.

Teva Women's Original Universal Sandals: These sandals provide exceptional cushioning and comfort, and we appreciate that the cross-foot straps can be fully adjusted to achieve the perfect fit, whether tight or loose.

Birkenstock Gizeh Sandal: Chic, lightweight, and supportive, the Gizeh is Birkenstock's waterproof take on the classic flip-flop. We never faced any chafing or rubbing, making these the ideal slides for women.

Merrell Bravada Backstrap Sport Sandals: Finding sandals with adequate arch support can be challenging, but these deliver ample support in the footbed. The EVA material adds a delightful bounce, perfect for staying on your feet for extended periods.

Why Trust Dinogo

T+L associate editor Anna Popp specializes in reviewing travel products and contributes significantly to the team’s tested content. She actively participates in nearly every travel test, including this one focused on hiking footwear. Anna grew up in Central Oregon, spending her summers hiking and backpacking through the stunning Cascade mountains.

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