Hikers really do need to pay attention to their footwear – more, possibly, than anyone other than professional sportspersons.
Discover the very best hiking sandals
What are the best sandals for hiking? Well-fitting, sturdy, supportive sandals with a closed or open toe should fit the bill. Depending on you and your plans, you may also wish to find the best outdoor sandals you can afford that are also waterproof or lightweight.
We’ve listed all the best men’s hiking sandals and the best women’s outdoor sandals here, including closed and open toed versions. Those suitable for people with wide or flat feet, or high arches, are also included.
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See the Best Hiking Sandals for Males or Females Here
The best hiking sandals: mens
Keen’s Targhee III is our favorite men’s hiking sandal. It’s sturdy and rugged with an open toe, and features a grippy outsole, quick-drying upper, adjustable straps, a shock absorbing sole and cushioned footbed.
See the men’s Keen Targhee III
Why buy the Keen Targhee III for men?
This impressive hiking sandal from Keen can handle it all. An all-terrain outsole gives great traction, while the water-resistant upper and rapid-dry lining make it great for use in water or during rain. The fit is comfortable and secure, so you can take to the trails confident that you will experience all-day comfort.
The best hiking sandals: womens
The Chaco Cloud is our number one pick among women’s hiking sandals. It was close run thing between that and the Teva Original Universal, but the stylish, innovative wrap-around design just clinched it.
Why buy the Chaco Cloud for women?
Of all the best women’s trekking sandals, the Chaco Cloud offers a superlative level of comfort, support and grip – all with an added injection of style. This good-looking footwear is made for the great outdoors, yet looks cool enough for a laid-back evening at the beach bar or local pub. There are eight color and pattern combinations to choose between, too.
Best Hiking Sandals Comparison Guide
The following tables are designed to help you decide between hiking sandals. There is a table each for men’s and women’s sandals. Both tables include key benefits of each product listed. The top three hiking sandals for males and females are here, plus all the products we’ve chosen as best in category hiking sandals.
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The Best Men’s Hiking Sandals
| Name | Image | Style | Color/s | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keen Targhee III | Chunky sandal | 3 neutrals | 10 | CHECK NOW | |
| Teva Hurricane | Fabric straps | 3 neutrals | 9.8 | CHECK NOW | |
| Ecco Yucatan | Chunky sandal | 29 options | 9.9 | CHECK NOW | |
| Keen Newport Hydro-M | Closed toe | 10 options | 9.6 | CHECK NOW | |
| Chaco Classic | Fabric straps | 11 options | 9.7 | CHECK NOW | |
| Keen Arroyo II | Closed toe | 3 options | 9.5 | CHECK NOW | |
| Teva Original Universal | Fabric straps | Black | 9.4 | CHECK NOW |
The Best Women’s Hiking Sandals
| Name | Image | Style | Color/s | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chaco Cloud | Wrap-around strap | 8 options | 10 | CHECK NOW | |
| Keen Venice | Closed toe | 6 options | 9.8 | CHECK NOW | |
| Teva Original Universal | Fabric straps | 18 options | 9.9 | CHECK NOW | |
| Keen Clearwater | Closed toe | 13 options | 9.7 | CHECK NOW | |
| Teva Tirra | Strappy sandal | 33 options | 9.6 | CHECK NOW | |
| Viakix Sport | Strappy sandal | 4 neutrals | 9.4 | CHECK NOW | |
| Chaco ZX1 | Strappy sandal | 6 colors | 9.5 | CHECK NOW |
Hiking Sandals Categories
Best Hiking Sandals for Men
Are you trying to find the best mens hiking sandals? Men’s designs that have made the grade include the Keen Targhee III, the Ecco Yucatan and the Teva Hurricane.
Click here to see the best in category, Keen Targhee III
Read more options and detailed reviews here
Best Hiking Sandals for Women
If you’re seeking the best women hiking sandals, you’re in the right place. We have thoroughly researched the best hiking sandals for women before choosing our top three products. These include the Keen Venice, Teva Original Universal and Chaco Cloud.
Click here to see the best in category, Chaco Cloud
Read more options and detailed reviews here
Best in Category Hiking Sandals
This final section includes a range of various categories, and in each we list the best hiking sandals. Men and women’s options are listed separately. The categories include the best closed toe sandals for hiking as well as open-toed products. The best hiking sandals with arch support, extra width or designed for flat feet are also listed, alongside waterproof and lightweight sandals for males and females.
Read more options and detailed reviews here
Frequently Asked Questions when buying hiking sandals
How much should I spend?
It depends on your budget, and how often you want to wear the sandals. While sandals at the cheaper end of the scale might do what you need them to, they may not have as many features or be as comfortable, strong or long-lasting as those produced by more expensive brands. Think about your priorities – and it can be useful to consider the cost per wear rather than the price tag. It will clearly be worth paying extra for more frequent use or if your hiking trips tend to be longer.
Closed or open toe sandals – which is best?
Closed toe sandals are more protective, so they’re ideal for sporty types – whose feet could be hit by a fast-moving ball, for example. Closed toe sandals are also warmer, but this may not be an advantage when you’re using them in a hot climate. So think about the weather, too.
What about the shape of the sandal?
Hiking requires a more sturdy, hard-wearing sandal than, for example, a walking shoe that is worn when exploring a city. When trekking, hiking or heading off on a demanding walk, then a chunkier, stronger sandal that has been designed for this type of wear is ideal.
How do I find a sandal for my wide, flat or high arched feet?
Our best in category section includes all the best hiking sandals. Women’s versions for wide, flat or high arched feet are included here – as are men’s. Manufacturers are familiar with the issues ill-fitting footwear can cause, so they are keen to create products that suit as many people as possible.
Why buy waterproof hiking sandals?
Anyone whose hike involves crossing or entering a lake, waterfall, river or the sea will require waterproof hiking sandals, but they are also great for unpredictable climates. Waterproof sandals will normally dry out more rapidly than their non-waterproof counterparts.
How do male and female sandals differ?
Male and female shoe sizes do differ. That aside, some styles for men or women are really similar, although some of the best ladies hiking sandals are available more color options and slightly different shapes. If you think about it, this simply reflects the clothing market in general, as many women wear a wider range of shades than some men.
Best Hiking Sandals: Mens
Keen Targhee III
The Keen Targhee III is one of the best mens hiking sandals we’ve found.
We love this open-toed men’s hiking sandal, as it has a grippy rubber outsole, a fast-drying water-resistant upper and adjustable straps for the ideal fit. Continued comfort is also assured by the shock absorbing midsole and cushioned footbed.
Read additional reviews for the men’s Keen Targhee III hiking sandal
Teva Hurricane
The Teva Hurricane for men is a high quality hiking sandal.
There is built-in stability control and arch support, while the grippy rubber sole assures good traction. To help you achieve the ideal fit, the straps are fully adjustable too. There are three color options, and this sandal is great for use in water or on the trail.
Read additional reviews for the Teva Hurricane men’s hiking sandal
Ecco Yucatan
The Ecco Yucatan for men has added support and an open toe.
This pair of hiking sandals has a very supportive and cushioned footbed for comfort, and the sandal is designed to give added lift when your toes come off the ground. This popular men’s hiking sandal also comes in a choice of 29 colors.
Read additional reviews for the Ecco Yucatan men’s hiking sandal
Best Hiking Sandals for Women
Teva Original Universal
One of the best hiking sandals for women we’ve discovered is the Teva Original Universal.
The fact that you can choose between 18 colors is testament to this product’s universal appeal. The fast-drying strap system features a simple hook and loop closure. Teva’s Original Universal is also treated with Microban to help prevent foot odor.
Read additional reviews for the Teva Original Universal women’s hiking sandal
Keen Venice
Included as one of the very best outdoor hiking sandals for women is the Keen Venice.
This is a sturdy, closed-toe sandal that incorporates a strong rubber toe bumper into the design. The bungee cord fastening ensures the perfect fit, while a traction outsole ensures a good level of grip. To lower the likelihood of hot feet or odor this footwear is fully breathable, and you can choose between six different colors too.
Read additional reviews for the Keen Venice women’s hiking sandal
Chaco Cloud
Among the best Chacos for hiking and water is the Chaco Cloud for women.
With fully adjustable wrap-around straps and a generous footbed there’s plenty of room for maneuver. This stylish, modern sandal also comes eight color options. A rubber outsole provides good grip and the cushioned footbed offers support as well as continued comfort.
Read additional reviews for the Chaco Cloud women’s hiking sandal
Best in Category Hiking Sandals
Best Waterproof Hiking Sandals: Men’s
The best Keen sandals for hiking in water is the highly rated men’s Keen Newport Hydro-M.
This product is designed for use in water, and also comes with a closed toe to protect your feet from stones and rocks than may be hidden under the surface. Ten color options are available, and this Keen hiking footwear is washable and has a high-traction, non-marking rubber sole.
Read additional reviews for the Keen men’s Newport Hydro-M waterproof sandals
Best Waterproof Hiking Sandals: Women’s
What are the best hiking sandals for women who plan to get wet feet? As with for men, it’s Keen who come up with the goods again.
The Keen Clearwater is designed primarily for use in wet conditions or when feet are submerged. The rubber outsole resists moisture, while the webbing upper dries quickly. You can also choose between 13 colors.
Read additional reviews for the Keen Clearwater waterproof sandals for women
Best Hiking Sandals for Wide Feet: Men’s
The men’s Chaco Classic are the best Chaco sandals for wide feet, thanks to the custom adjustable straps they feature.
These polyester webbing straps are also quick drying, and secure the foot while hiking the trails. A choice of colors is available, and like all Chaco hiking sandals they have the comfortable LUVSEAL footbed and ChacoGrip outsole.
Best Hiking Sandals for Wide Feet: Women’s
The best women’s trekking sandals we’ve found for wide feet is the Chaco Cloud.
Wearers say these are roomy, and the straps are fully adjustable for a customized fit. These are some of the best Chacos for hiking, and they also come in a choice of eight color and pattern options. The grip rubber outsole provides traction, while the cushioned footbed assures all-day comfort and support.
Read additional reviews for the Chaco Cloud women’s hiking sandal
Best Closed Toe Hiking Sandals: Men’s
The best outdoor hiking sandals for males seeking a closed toe option are the Keen’s Arroyo II.
A sturdy toe bumper gives added protection, and the leather upper is quick-drying. Superior traction is assured by multi-directional lugs. All-day comfort is provided by a double density footbed, while the stability shank offers extra support.
Read additional reviews for the Keen’s Arroyo II closed toe sandal for men
Best Closed Toe Hiking Sandals: Women’s
Again, Keen provide the best trekking sandals for women who want a closed toe. The Keen Venice is a strong sports sandal with a sturdy rubber toe bumper to give added protection.
A bungee fastening system ensures a secure fit, and the grippy outsole offers an impressive level of traction. This shoe is also breathable to reduce the incidence of overheated or malodorous feet, and there are six colors available.
Read additional reviews for the Keen Venice women’s closed toe sandal
Best Open Toe Hiking Sandals: Men’s
The best men’s outdoor sandals with an open toe are the men’s Keen Targhee III.
This is an open toe version of the classic Keen hiking sandal, featuring a waterproof, fast-drying upper as well as a rugged outsole for traction. The adjustable straps ensure just the right fit, while the cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing midsole guarantee all-day comfort.
Read additional reviews for the Keen Targhee III men’s open toe hiking sandal
Best Open Toe Hiking Sandals: Women’s
The best Teva hiking sandals for women who want an open-toed shoe are the Teva Original Universal.
This product is loved by people from all over the world, and attracts many repeat buyers. As you can choose between 18 colors, there’s no need to get bored with them. The strapping system is quick-drying and easy to use with a hook and loop closure, and they are Microban treated to avoid foot odor.
Read additional reviews for the Teva Original Universal women’s open toe hiking sandal
Best Lightweight Hiking Sandals: Men’s
The best Teva for hiking men who also want lightweight footwear is Teva’s bestselling Original Universal.
This hiking sandal for males on the go has a strong outsole with great grip and a webbing upper that dries rapidly. A Microban treated, EVA cushioned footbed takes care of odor as well as comfort, and the fit is adjustable to suit the individual wearer.
Read additional reviews for the Teva Original Universal men’s lightweight hiking sandals
Best Lightweight Hiking Sandals: Women’s
The best Teva sandals for hiking, that are also lightweight, are the Teva Tirra for women.
As the strapping is more low profile than other comparable products, this helps to keep the weight down. This also gives the sandals a smarter look. Teva offer this ladies’ hiking sandal in 37 color options, so you know this must be a very big seller for the respected outdoor footwear brand.
Read additional reviews for the Teva Tirra lightweight women’s hiking sandals
Best Hiking Sandals for Flat Feet: Men’s
The Ecco men’s Yucatan is an open toed hiking sandal with added support built in, so it’s great for those with flat feet.
This footwear has a particularly supportive, cushioned footbed, and Ecco have designed this to give extra lift as soon as your toes leave the ground. Testament to this hiking sandal’s popularity is the fact that it comes in an impressive selection of 29 colors.
Read additional reviews for the Ecco Yucatan men’s hiking sandal
Best Hiking Sandals for Flat Feet: Women’s
The Viakix women’s sandal with added arch support is perfect for ladies whose feet are a little less curvy.
They look sleek and smart, and come in your choice of three attractive neutral shades so you can wear them with anything. Fast-drying, adjustable straps and a rugged rubber sole mean you can securely take to the trail in comfort as well as style.
Read additional reviews for the Viakix women’s hiking sandal
Best Hiking Sandals for High Arches: Men’s
With integrated arch support, the men’s Teva Hurricane is the best hiking sandal for men with high arches.
They are also among the best Teva sandals for hiking and water, as they are designed to stabilize the foot on uneven ground while the rugged, rubber sole provides great grip. The straps are fully adjustable to endure a good fit, too.
Read additional reviews for the Teva Hurricane men’s hiking sandal
Best Hiking Sandals for High Arches: Women’s
If you’re a female with high arches, then the best Chaco sandals for hiking are the Chaco ZX1 Classic sports sandals.
Chaco’s unique ‘LUVSEAT’ platform provides contoured arch support, and comes in a choice of six colors. This rubber-soled sandal has quick-drying straps and these are also adjustable to ensure a custom and secure fit.
Read additional reviews for the Chaco ZX1 women’s hiking sandal
Which are the Best Hiking Sandals for You?
As usual, this guide only lists products with four to five star reviews on average. Whichever you buy, you can therefore be confident that you’re getting a pair of the best rated hiking sandals available. You can access more information for every product – including prices and reviews – by clicking on the link provided beneath each listing. The best hiking sandals for you will depend on your exact needs, which is why we include a great range of different options here.
Happy hiking!
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About the Reviewer
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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