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27 Travel-Friendly Shoes You Can Walk Miles In While Still Keeping It Cute

27 Travel-Friendly Shoes You Can Walk Miles In While Still Keeping It Cute

Buzz Feed3 days ago
A trendy, lightweight pair of New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainers that amazed a reviewer with how well they carried them through a full day at Disneyland — and we all know that's the true test of comfort for any pair of shoes. They're made with minimal interior seaming and are lined with supportive foam inserts so that your feet can kiss those painful blisters and midday discomfort goodbye.
A pair of Cushionaire sandals — many reviewers say they're a wonderful alternative to Birkenstocks. Their cork footbed quickly adjusts to the contour of your foot *and* they're designed with soft lining and adjustable straps (which you'll really appreciate two hours into that walking tour 🫠). The comfort of a tennis shoe combined with the effortlessness of a sandal? Yes, please.
Dr. Scholl's Time Off Sneaker, which has managed to impress countless reviewers — from frequent travelers who fly for work to college students studying abroad. They're made with water-resistant faux leather *and* have ultra-flexible outsoles with extra grip and cushioning. And bonus! They're sustainably crafted from recycled material.
Or some bestselling Adidas sneakers with cloudfoam cushioning that has earned them over 63,000 5-star ratings. They'll be the two lil' clouds your feet need when it comes to a long walking day. And since they're super lightweight, you can also pack them without stress!
Quick-drying, long-lasting Teva midform sandals are a must for any activity that doesn't require a closed toe. Whether you'll be trekking through the city, or just walking from your hotel room to the pool, these will keep you from feeling like you're walking on wet sponges, and the strap design ensures your feet stay put.
Or Nisolo flatform sandals that you'll absolutely love if you're going on a tropical getaway. They've got a lightweight, breathable design that won't let your feet overheat *and* they don't even need a break-in period, so you can toss them into your luggage as soon as they arrive!
Super supportive, water-resistant Dr. Scholl's kicks — aka the new cushy pair of shoes you'll be reaching for when it's time to go to the airport. Since they're super easy to take on and off, TSA might just stop yelling at you as you try to make your way through security as quickly as possible.
Huarache sandals that are 100% handmade and woven by Mexican artisans. (So each pair is unique!) They're *perfect* if you want the comfort of a supportive sneaker, but in a more ~cutesy~ way. They also have a miraculous way of perfectly molding to your feet, meaning you'll spend little to no time breaking them in!
Lug-sole Dr. Martens Rometty boots — these babies are sure to give you some edge. With a classic look and a comfy platform, you have the freedom to wear these to breakfast for an early start to the day *and* on a tour of the city.
And some absurdly cheap yet cute waterproof Chelsea boots because I think we both know you're way past letting a rainy destination ruin your trip (or your outfit)! These will allow you to splash around in slushy puddles all you want without any worry of getting a dreadful wet sock.
Chunky Fila platform sneakers to give you that extra height boost without sacrificing the comfort you desperately need to carry you through hours of walking. So, no pain in your feet (just in your wallet, as you reach into it after spotting yet another souvenir you just *need* have to have).
Or a pair of quick-drying lace-free sneakers you'll be glad you have if your destination is full of aquatic adventures! Not only will these keep your feet nice and dry, but they're also super breathable, have an anti-slip rubber sole, *and* have a pull tab at the heel that allows you to take them on and off super easily.
Or!! Some lightweight Tioseban sneakers because they weigh basically nothing (buh-bye luggage weight fees👋) and are made of breathable mesh that'll keep your precious feet cool and sweat-free. Basically, if you want to combine the freedom of being barefoot with the support of a cushy sole, these are the shoes for you!
A pair of lightweight lug sole sandals, which are giving *major* early 2000s Lizzie McGuire vibes, which means you're destined to be wearing them in Rome on a Vespa. Yeah... I'm gonna need these in every color (and there are a lot of them). 😍
Splurge-worthy block heel mules that'll ensure you're walking in both comfort *and* style from your first sip of latte in the morning to the moment you fall back onto your hotel bed in the evening. They have a supportive 2-inch cylinder heel, plush foam padding, and an array of stunning colors to choose from.
Floral ballet flats with adorable cutouts that aren't just for style, but for breathability! Plus, they're flexible as heck, so you can roll them right up to take on your next sunny getaway!
Sketchers slip-ons that'll let you avoid having to awkwardly stop in the middle of a walkway to crouch down and tie your shoe *again*. With these, you can keep the cute sneaker look sans the pesky laces! Plus, many reviewers say they're super comfy — even if your feet are on the wider side!
Or some classic slip-on sneaks — the pretty color options will catch your eye, but the breathable canvas material, padded insole, and stretchy fit are what will capture your heart. 😍 Reviewers also rave about how surprisingly easy they are to pack!
Sorel strappy sandals with secure straps and a signature molded EVA footbed that'll have you checking off the landmarks you've got planned for the day *without* the dreaded aches and pains. Plus, those groovy scalloped soles will give you some extra height *and* give you some extra style points.
Snazzy heeled slip-ons if you want something you can easily slip on for a fancy dinner after taking a much-needed nap at the hotel. These babies have a thick heel for stability as well as soft, thick braided straps to keep your feet in place (because having them slide all over the place can be so annoying!).
Espadrille platform sandals to carry you from the Spanish steps in the morning to the Trevi Fountain in the evening. Plus, reviewers with wide feet love these and say they fit perfectly!
Or Dr. Martens platform sandals that'll practically have you ~floating~ through the streets of Italy. Adjustable buckles? Check. Super lightweight EVA soles? Check. Ripple tread platforms? CHECK. Doc Martens, you've done it again.
Walking sneakers made with knitted mesh material to keep your feet dry and cool. Plus, its comfy insole is designed with a honeycomb pattern to keep your feet balanced and strain-free. Reviewers have run 5ks, hiked for miles, and stood for up to 18 hours in these bad boys without feeling any pain!
High-top Converse sneakers with a chic platform sole — whether you pair them with your fave pair of jeans or juxtapose them with a dress, they'll have you looking on-trend wherever you go.
Some sport shoes because they're made with a breathable insole, soft lining, and ultralight EVA soles that'll have you walking on air from one landmark to the next. Besides, look at that adorable stitching!
Very affordable pointy-toe loafers, which reviewers love because they don't require breaking in. And if you're in an unpredictable "hot, then cold, then hot again" climate, their closed-toe, open-top design makes them extra ideal. One reviewer even said they preferred these over their Gucci pair!
Platform sandals that are basically what happens when comfy sandals and stylish heels have a baby. They've got cushioned insoles, adjustable ankle straps, and ridged soles that'll give you peak stability while you sightsee in ~style~.
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I'm 30 and My Mom Is 58, and We Both Swear by Teva Sandals for Logging 25,000+ Steps During Summer Trips
I'm 30 and My Mom Is 58, and We Both Swear by Teva Sandals for Logging 25,000+ Steps During Summer Trips

Travel + Leisure

time2 days ago

  • Travel + Leisure

I'm 30 and My Mom Is 58, and We Both Swear by Teva Sandals for Logging 25,000+ Steps During Summer Trips

As a New York City resident of 10-plus years and a frequent Disney World visitor (some might say a Disney adult, but that's neither here nor there), comfortable walking shoes are a major priority. I've tested out brands like Adidas, Brooks, Ryka, and more, and while I have favorite pairs from each of them, nothing quite compares to my beloved Teva sandals. In particular, the Teva Flatform Sandals are my go-to pair for warm weather, whether I'm trekking through the sweltering summer city streets or racking up 25,000+ steps across the Disney World parks. I've even got my mom hooked on Teva sandals, and we're often sporting our pairs together, whether on our annual trip to Disney or to the beach in our hometown. I've been wearing Tevas for years, but the flatform style is easily my favorite; I love that this design keeps my feet elevated above the ground (crucial when walking through New York City), yet it offers a supremely comfortable base for all-day walking. $70 $52 at Amazon $75 at Zappos $75 at The first time I wore these Teva sandals was on a week-long Disney vacation. Like previous Tevas I've owned, these didn't require a break-in period, which was great because I wore them for a full 15,000-step day before running a 10K race the next morning. I certainly couldn't afford any blisters! From first wear, I found the platform base to be extremely supportive and comfortable. The EVA midsole is designed with a heel cup for stability, while there is plenty of arch support in the middle to save my flat feet during a long day of walking and standing in lines. And, their ultra-lightweight design makes these sandals easy to pack in my carry-on. What I love about these sandals is that they offer an often much-needed break from restrictive sneakers on a walking-heavy vacation. Yet, unlike many other sandals, you aren't sacrificing support for comfort. I was so happy to wear these sandals after one of my most intense Disney days to date, which included 44,000 steps. My feet were unsurprisingly exhausted when I woke up the next day after being shoved into sneakers for roughly 20 miles—so I slipped on my Teva Flatforms instead. I racked up 25,000 steps with zero foot, leg, or back pain, despite the trials I put my body through the day before. $75 at Amazon $75 at Zappos $75 at Clearly, my Teva platform sandals are comfortable, but the perks don't stop there. These shoes double as waterproof sandals and are ready for everything from the beach to the waterpark. I wore them all day at Blizzard Beach, one of Disney's water parks, and was shocked at how quickly they dried, even after submerging them completely underwater on the lazy river and down a few waterslides. I thought for sure they would rub and give me blisters, but I was left in complete comfort all day. But don't just take my word for it—my mom swears by her Teva sandals at the parks, too. Because she's a waitress who is on her feet for hours, my mom takes her footwear pretty seriously. Although her pair is thrifted and isn't sold in stores anymore (it's the Terra-Float 2 Knit Evolve Sandals), these sandals are the first thing she packs, right alongside her MagicBand and sunscreen. 'My Tevas are not only comfortable, but they make everything so easy,' she says. 'They provide excellent arch support, so my feet never get tired, and they're adjustable so I can make them a bit tighter if I'm on a crazy ride, or I can loosen them when I'm resting in the shade, having a snack on top of a Disney garbage can.' (If you know, you know.) Because they're thrifted and a discontinued style, her shoes definitely had a life before her—so the fact that they're still holding up to tens of thousands of steps is a testament to Teva's durability. $70 at Amazon $75 at Zappos $75 at Clearly, my mom and I have nothing but fantastic things to say about our Teva shoes, whether you're headed to Disney or on a walking-heavy vacation (like the time we wore our Tevas during a 10-day Italian vacation!). For more supportive, comfortable sandals for women, read on for styles at Amazon, starting at $36. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

27 Travel-Friendly Shoes You Can Walk Miles In While Still Keeping It Cute
27 Travel-Friendly Shoes You Can Walk Miles In While Still Keeping It Cute

Buzz Feed

time3 days ago

  • Buzz Feed

27 Travel-Friendly Shoes You Can Walk Miles In While Still Keeping It Cute

A trendy, lightweight pair of New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainers that amazed a reviewer with how well they carried them through a full day at Disneyland — and we all know that's the true test of comfort for any pair of shoes. They're made with minimal interior seaming and are lined with supportive foam inserts so that your feet can kiss those painful blisters and midday discomfort goodbye. A pair of Cushionaire sandals — many reviewers say they're a wonderful alternative to Birkenstocks. Their cork footbed quickly adjusts to the contour of your foot *and* they're designed with soft lining and adjustable straps (which you'll really appreciate two hours into that walking tour 🫠). The comfort of a tennis shoe combined with the effortlessness of a sandal? Yes, please. Dr. Scholl's Time Off Sneaker, which has managed to impress countless reviewers — from frequent travelers who fly for work to college students studying abroad. They're made with water-resistant faux leather *and* have ultra-flexible outsoles with extra grip and cushioning. And bonus! They're sustainably crafted from recycled material. Or some bestselling Adidas sneakers with cloudfoam cushioning that has earned them over 63,000 5-star ratings. They'll be the two lil' clouds your feet need when it comes to a long walking day. And since they're super lightweight, you can also pack them without stress! Quick-drying, long-lasting Teva midform sandals are a must for any activity that doesn't require a closed toe. Whether you'll be trekking through the city, or just walking from your hotel room to the pool, these will keep you from feeling like you're walking on wet sponges, and the strap design ensures your feet stay put. Or Nisolo flatform sandals that you'll absolutely love if you're going on a tropical getaway. They've got a lightweight, breathable design that won't let your feet overheat *and* they don't even need a break-in period, so you can toss them into your luggage as soon as they arrive! Super supportive, water-resistant Dr. Scholl's kicks — aka the new cushy pair of shoes you'll be reaching for when it's time to go to the airport. Since they're super easy to take on and off, TSA might just stop yelling at you as you try to make your way through security as quickly as possible. Huarache sandals that are 100% handmade and woven by Mexican artisans. (So each pair is unique!) They're *perfect* if you want the comfort of a supportive sneaker, but in a more ~cutesy~ way. They also have a miraculous way of perfectly molding to your feet, meaning you'll spend little to no time breaking them in! Lug-sole Dr. Martens Rometty boots — these babies are sure to give you some edge. With a classic look and a comfy platform, you have the freedom to wear these to breakfast for an early start to the day *and* on a tour of the city. And some absurdly cheap yet cute waterproof Chelsea boots because I think we both know you're way past letting a rainy destination ruin your trip (or your outfit)! These will allow you to splash around in slushy puddles all you want without any worry of getting a dreadful wet sock. Chunky Fila platform sneakers to give you that extra height boost without sacrificing the comfort you desperately need to carry you through hours of walking. So, no pain in your feet (just in your wallet, as you reach into it after spotting yet another souvenir you just *need* have to have). Or a pair of quick-drying lace-free sneakers you'll be glad you have if your destination is full of aquatic adventures! Not only will these keep your feet nice and dry, but they're also super breathable, have an anti-slip rubber sole, *and* have a pull tab at the heel that allows you to take them on and off super easily. Or!! Some lightweight Tioseban sneakers because they weigh basically nothing (buh-bye luggage weight fees👋) and are made of breathable mesh that'll keep your precious feet cool and sweat-free. Basically, if you want to combine the freedom of being barefoot with the support of a cushy sole, these are the shoes for you! A pair of lightweight lug sole sandals, which are giving *major* early 2000s Lizzie McGuire vibes, which means you're destined to be wearing them in Rome on a Vespa. Yeah... I'm gonna need these in every color (and there are a lot of them). 😍 Splurge-worthy block heel mules that'll ensure you're walking in both comfort *and* style from your first sip of latte in the morning to the moment you fall back onto your hotel bed in the evening. They have a supportive 2-inch cylinder heel, plush foam padding, and an array of stunning colors to choose from. Floral ballet flats with adorable cutouts that aren't just for style, but for breathability! Plus, they're flexible as heck, so you can roll them right up to take on your next sunny getaway! Sketchers slip-ons that'll let you avoid having to awkwardly stop in the middle of a walkway to crouch down and tie your shoe *again*. With these, you can keep the cute sneaker look sans the pesky laces! Plus, many reviewers say they're super comfy — even if your feet are on the wider side! Or some classic slip-on sneaks — the pretty color options will catch your eye, but the breathable canvas material, padded insole, and stretchy fit are what will capture your heart. 😍 Reviewers also rave about how surprisingly easy they are to pack! Sorel strappy sandals with secure straps and a signature molded EVA footbed that'll have you checking off the landmarks you've got planned for the day *without* the dreaded aches and pains. Plus, those groovy scalloped soles will give you some extra height *and* give you some extra style points. Snazzy heeled slip-ons if you want something you can easily slip on for a fancy dinner after taking a much-needed nap at the hotel. These babies have a thick heel for stability as well as soft, thick braided straps to keep your feet in place (because having them slide all over the place can be so annoying!). Espadrille platform sandals to carry you from the Spanish steps in the morning to the Trevi Fountain in the evening. Plus, reviewers with wide feet love these and say they fit perfectly! Or Dr. Martens platform sandals that'll practically have you ~floating~ through the streets of Italy. Adjustable buckles? Check. Super lightweight EVA soles? Check. Ripple tread platforms? CHECK. Doc Martens, you've done it again. Walking sneakers made with knitted mesh material to keep your feet dry and cool. Plus, its comfy insole is designed with a honeycomb pattern to keep your feet balanced and strain-free. Reviewers have run 5ks, hiked for miles, and stood for up to 18 hours in these bad boys without feeling any pain! High-top Converse sneakers with a chic platform sole — whether you pair them with your fave pair of jeans or juxtapose them with a dress, they'll have you looking on-trend wherever you go. Some sport shoes because they're made with a breathable insole, soft lining, and ultralight EVA soles that'll have you walking on air from one landmark to the next. Besides, look at that adorable stitching! Very affordable pointy-toe loafers, which reviewers love because they don't require breaking in. And if you're in an unpredictable "hot, then cold, then hot again" climate, their closed-toe, open-top design makes them extra ideal. One reviewer even said they preferred these over their Gucci pair! Platform sandals that are basically what happens when comfy sandals and stylish heels have a baby. They've got cushioned insoles, adjustable ankle straps, and ridged soles that'll give you peak stability while you sightsee in ~style~.

The Best Hiking Sandals, Based On Years Of Testing Experience
The Best Hiking Sandals, Based On Years Of Testing Experience

Forbes

time4 days ago

  • Forbes

The Best Hiking Sandals, Based On Years Of Testing Experience

Hiking sandals have been a part of my warm weather footwear rotation for over a decade. At first, they served as comfy camp shoes—something to lounge in after a long day on the trail. But I quickly realized the best hiking sandals are not only comfortable, but capable, and often all you really need to get out there. I've worn them across the Sierras, along the shores of New England and everywhere in between—backpacking, rafting and even running to find styles that truly hold up. And now, I've put together this in-depth guide to the best hiking sandals. My top recommendation: the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D—it's perfect for most people and environments. Find the best hiking sandals to explore in capable comfort. Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers Over the years, I've gravitated toward minimalist sandals that are simple yet skillful, but I recognize that feet are different from one pair to the next. What works for my feet might not work for yours, which is why I reviewed hiking sandals based on a set of shared criteria: traction, durability, fit and stability. In the end, I found great options from Teva, Chaco, Bedrock, Hoka, Keen and more. Below, the best hiking sandals, and how you can go about selecting a quality pair. Our Top Recommendations Best Hiking Sandals Overall: Bedrock Cairn Evo Best Budget Hiking Sandals: Teva Original Universal Best Closed-Toe Hiking Sandal: Keen Newport H2 Best Shoe-Hiking Sandals Hybrid: Hoka Hopara 2 Best Hiking Sandals For Flat Feet: Teva Hurricane XLT2 Best Water Hiking Sandals: Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro Weight (per pair): 15.6 ounces | Upper: Polyester and nylon | Midsole: EVA | Outsole: Rubber | Closure: Buckle | Sizes: 5 to 13 (men), 6 to 14 (women) The Bedrock Cairn Evo has been my preferred hiking sandal for five years now; others have come along, but none have replaced it. My adoration for this sandal is a result of many things, but it starts with the three-point Y strap up top. By combining a buckle, hook and hook-and-loop systems, it's incredibly easy to dial in the fit, and once you get it right, you never have to adjust it. The straps are also incredibly durable and likely to outlive the sole. Speaking of the sole, Bedrock pairs a thin EVA midsole with a Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole that's durable and grippy. The tread isn't as aggressive as a hiking boot, but it's capable on a variety of surfaces, from loose dirt to wet granite rocks. And after you've worn it down over time, simply send it back to Bedrock as part of the brand's Re-Soul and Repair Program for fresh rubber (a $65 process). As fond as I am of the Cairn Evo, it's not a perfect adventure sandal. The thong strap between the toes, for example, is polarizing—some love it, others hate it (I fell into the latter camp but eventually moved on). It's also thin and flat, so it doesn't offer the same support as a thicker sandal like the Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro. Still, I personally. consider these minor drawbacks. The Cairn Evo's simple, lightweight, repairable design strikes a balance between comfort and capability that meets the needs of most hikers. REI Teva Original Universal Weight (per pair): 12.8 ounces (men), 10.8 ounces (women) | Upper: Recycled polyester | Midsole: EVA | Outsole: Rubber | Closure: Strap (Velcro) | Sizes: 8 to 14 (men), 5 to 12 (women) Teva's Original Universal Sandal transcends outdoor activities, and because it costs less than a tank of gas these days, we can't help but crown it the best budget pick. So what do you get for $60? Well, the straps are made from recycled polyester, and they secure around the ankle and forefoot with hook-and-loop straps. The EVA midsole adds a bit of cushioning to maintain comfort, and a basic rubber outsole supplies sufficient grip. Teva doesn't shy away from colors and patterns, which means you can find the Original Universal in a variety of styles. And while the bare-bones footbed might not offer much support for those with high arches, it keeps flat feet comfy for miles on the trail. That said, this is a wallet-friendly sandal, so it may not last you many summers if you hike in it for hundreds of miles, and the outsole isn't as grippy as others in this guide. Really, it's a good option for everyday wear and the occasional hike on a mellow trail. If you're looking for a Teva model with a bit more support and grip, the Hurricane XLT2 might better meet your needs, and it costs just $20 more. Weight (per pair): 2.5 pounds (men), 1 pound, 6.7 ounces (women) | Upper: Polyester webbing | Midsole: EVA Foam | Outsole: Rubber | Closure: Quick-lace system | Sizes: 7 to 15 (men), 6 to 11 (women) Keen's Newport H2 Sandal just so happens to be our favorite water shoe, but if you're in need of a sandal that offers toe protection, it should also serve you well on hikes. By blending a classic hiking shoe base with a sandal-like strap, Keen submits a piece of summertime footwear that's lightweight, durable and eager to tackle obstacles. The washable polyester webbing on top allows air to pass through for improved breathability, but it still offers just enough protection to keep most dirt and debris out. An EVA insole provides arch support and cushioning, and a nonmarking outsole adds much-needed grip. But the big talking point here is the closed-toe design that prevents you from stubbing a toe in a rocky riverbed or stabbing it on a sharp root. The toe bumper does its job dutifully. It's also worth noting that, because this sandal features a shoelike platform, it's incredibly comfortable for miles on end. The Hoka Hopara 2 won us over in the comfort department, but if that sandal doesn't quite meet your needs, consider this one instead. Weight (per pair): 25.8 ounces (men), 20.8 ounces (women) | Upper: Recycled knit, recycled Cordura | Midsole: Sugarcane EVA | Outsole: Rubber | Closure: Quick-toggle lace | Sizes: 7 to 14 (men), 5 to 11 (women) It wouldn't be fair to describe the Hopara 2 as a shoe or a sandal—it's a little bit of both, which is exactly what Hoka was going for. The upper, for example, is made of stronger bits of fabric to give it shoelike structure, but it's finished with mesh to dramatically improve breathability. Underfoot, a chunky sole looks and feels like a classic Hoka running shoe, but it's designed to make the Hopara 2 amphibious, so you can confidently tackle river crossing or rafting trips in comfort. And it's finished with a quick-lace toggle that makes it easy to slip on and cinch in seconds; a hook-and-loop strap around the heel helps tighten things up for a secure fit. There isn't a whole lot to criticize about the Hopara 2, but it is heavy at 10.4 ounces per shoe (women's), which means it weighs about the same as a running shoe. It's also far more enclosed than most open-toed hiking sandals, which may defeat the purpose of a sandal altogether if you're looking to liberate your feet. Ultimately, it isn't your typical sandal, nor is it your typical shoe, and as a result, it won't be the right option for everyone. But if you're after that sort of balance, there isn't anything else quite like it. Weight (per pair): 20.5 ounces (men); 15.7 ounces (women) | Upper: Recycled polyester | Midsole: EVA | Outsole: Rubber | Closure: Strap | Sizes: 4 to 14 (men), 5 to 14 (women) Teva's Hurricane XLT2 Sandal serves those of us with flat feet. Truth be told, any number of sandals on this list can make a flat foot happy (my flat feet happen to love Bedrock sandals), but if you fancy a sandal that offers more cushioning and support without forcing an arch, this is the one for you. Not unlike the Original Universal sandal mentioned above, the Hurricane XLT2 uses thick, recycled webbing and hook-and-loop straps to create a secure, comfortable fit, and the patterns are just as eye-catching. But this sandal differs from its sibling below the foot, where thicker EVA material offers a lot more comfort and support. A built-in nylon shank adds more stability as you explore mixed terrain, and Durabrasion rubber is more grippy. Teva even treats these materials with a peppermint-based antimicrobial layer that fights the growth of odor-causing bacteria. The Hurricane XLT2 is a crowd pleaser, but it's still not quite as durable as a pair of Chacos or Bedrocks. The hook-and-loop straps can also wear down over time and lose their stickiness, which necessitates replacing the sandal altogether—no repair program exists. But this sandal is a step above the Original Universal, which makes it a great option if you like Teva and want something a bit more rugged and reliable than the brand's base sandal. Amazon Promo Codes | 30% Off In April 2024 Chacos Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro Weight (per pair): 31.1 ounces | Upper: Recycled polyester | Midsole: Polyurethane | Outsole: Vibram Megagrip | Closure: Strap | Sizes: 7 to 15 (men), 5 to 12 (women) I spent a few days rafting the Tuolumne River in the Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pros, and I walked away impressed. If you've worn Chacos before, this sandal looks and feels like its siblings —it's chunky, heavy and incredibly durable. What's new, however, is the outsole designed in collaboration with Vibram and professional raft guides. According to Chaco, the Vibram Megagrip compound has six times the grip on wet river rock compared to other adventure sandals, which is a claim I can back up with anecdotal evidence. Whether I was playing in the river or wading through it, the Z/1 Rapid Pros felt planted, and I never really questioned if they were grippy enough to keep me upright. Others in my raft (who were also wearing this sandal) said the same, so it's a option if you spend time on the water and need the traction. The only downsides of the Z/1 Rapid Pro (and Chaco sandals in general) are that they're heavy and thick. To be sure, these qualities are also what make Chaco so popular, but if you have flat feet or prefer a truly lightweight design, you should probably look elsewhere. Otherwise, this new-ish sandal from Chaco is a confidence-inspiring companion. The Forbes Vetted gear team maintains a sizable library of gear guides, including a plethora of camping and hiking guides that cover the essentials, from the best hiking shoes for wide feet to the best hiking socks. Cam Vigliotta serves as Forbes Vetted's gear editor, and as the author of this guide, he spent time logging hundreds of miles in hiking sandals from Teva, Chaco, Bedrock, Hoka and more. He holds a degree in kinesiology and understands the pivotal role footwear plays in allowing us to explore in safe comfort. serves as Forbes Vetted's gear editor, and as the author of this guide, he spent time logging hundreds of miles in hiking sandals from Teva, Chaco, Bedrock, Hoka and more. He holds a degree in kinesiology and understands the pivotal role footwear plays in allowing us to explore in safe comfort. This article was edited by Forbes Vetted commerce editor Christine Colby. She has over five years of experience in product testing and recommendations and recently covered the best robotic pool cleaners and spearheaded an extensive test of the best patio umbrellas. We return to this guide regularly to ensure the information we provide is accurate and up-to-date. In doing so, we provide you with the details you need to find a comfortable, long-lasting pair of hiking sandals. This guide was last updated in July 2025. We spent time on trails and in rivers near and far to find the best hiking sandals. Here's how we made our picks: We looked into established sandal brands to find styles suitable for hiking based on experience and real-world feedback. Popular sandals like the Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro and Teva Hurricane XLT2 were some of the first models we considered, followed by others like the shoe-sandal-hybrid Hoka Hopara 2 and the Keen Newport H2. We evaluated specific sandals based on a set of key variables, starting with traction and stability. Hiking sandals should have grippy outsoles to help you traverse loose or wet surfaces, though each outsole's construction offers a different experience. Stability, meanwhile, is a result of the outsole material, the shape of the sandal and how much cushioning it offers. Designs with more foam like the Hoka Hopara 2 feel less stable than barefoot-style sandals. A sandal's upper determines how it secures to your foot. Models like the Bedrock Cairn Evo feature a thong-style strap system. Others like the Teva Original Universal use hook-and-loop straps that are easy to adjust. We considered various options to fit different feet. When you combine traction, stability and features like strap design, you're left with a sandal that should help you explore the world. By comparing options against one another based on these elements, we gained a better understanding of each style before making our recommendations. Ready to invest in a pair of hiking sandals? As you weigh your options, keep these variables in mind to ensure the pair you choose meets your needs. Activity Think about the type of activity you plan to do and the terrains you expect to encounter when wearing your sandals. Will you be exploring rocky trails, sandy beaches, raging rivers or all of the above? Different sandals offer varying levels of grip and protection, which is why we recommend looking at reviews to determine where former buyers have used their sandals to better understand where they shine. Stability Look for hiking sandals with adequate support and cushioning. A contoured footbed and beefy midsole help reduce fatigue and provide stability on uneven surfaces. And if you prefer a barely there sandal that's solely designed to protect your foot from the ground, consider lightweight or minimalist models. Materials Look for hiking sandals made from durable and quick-drying materials that include synthetic fabrics, leather and rubber. These materials should also be breathable and water-resistant to ensure long-term comfort. Traction Pay close attention to the outsole design, including the lug patterns and materials used, to ensure they provide reliable traction on various surfaces. Deep lugs or a grippy Vibram outsole enhance stability on slippery, loose or uneven terrain. Durability Read the reviews, assess the materials and inspect the construction quality to gauge the durability of a pair of sandals. Hiking sandals should be able to withstand frequent use on a variety of terrain. Consider investing in sandals with repair programs, like those available through Chaco or Bedrock, that allow you to mend and restore your sandals after years of use.

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