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Grab your hiking backpacks and one of the best hydration packs, because fall means it’s time to head to the mountains and get hiking. And even if you’re stocked up on hiking essentials, a lighter, cooler option for your feet may be key when heading out to the trails for easier hikes. But our best walking sandals aren’t quite made for a hiking trail. So, we chatted with foot experts to get you the best hiking sandals for your most comfortable, safe options on the market to enjoy the fall foliage this season.
And before you click buy on the best hiking sandals we compiled below, be sure to consider if you need a sturdier option instead, like our best hiking shoes for women. A hiking shoe is required for rougher terrains and trails with a greater degree of difficulty, explains Tim Oldani, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., a podiatrist at Missouri Foot and Ankle. But if your planned hike is rated easy to moderate, the weather is temperate, and the trails are paved, have gravel, or have mulch, then Dr. Oldani says sandals are a great option.
So, grab your best healthy trail mixes and slide on your best hiking pants, because we’re here to share the best hiking sandals to make the most of the stunning time of year.
How we chose the best hiking sandals
We consulted Dr. Oldani, countless customer reviews, and conducted our own research to find the best hiking sandals available.
Our Top Picks
1
2
Best Value Hiking Sandal
adidas Unisex-Adult Terrex Cyprex Ultra DLX Sandals
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3
Best lightweight hiking sandal
Bedrock Sandals Cairn Adventure Sandals
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4
5
Best hiking sandals for rocky trails
Teva Women's Terra FI 5 Sport Sandal
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6
7
8
Best sports sandal
HOKA Hopara Multisport Sandals
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9
10
1
Best overall hiking sandals
Chaco Women's Z/Cloud
Pros
- Well-cushioned
- Arch support
Cons
- Some reviewers complained the front straps are not adjustable
“These sandals are well suited for hiking thanks to their heavy-duty rubber outsole and well-cushioned midsole with a well-contoured arch to provide great support,” Dr. Oldani says. We especially love the adjustable polyester webbing with padded toe posts for the perfect fit. One reviewer raved, “These are great! I ordered my normal size 7 and they fit perfectly with a little wiggle room. The straps are adjustable and the material is really comfortable.” Get them in four fabulous colors and eight size options.
2
Best Value Hiking Sandal
adidas Unisex-Adult Terrex Cyprex Ultra DLX Sandals
2
Best Value Hiking Sandal
adidas Unisex-Adult Terrex Cyprex Ultra DLX Sandals
Pros
- Great value
- Unisex
Cons
- Some reviewers said they take a while to break in
Designed with a durable, rubber sole to avoid slippage, buckle closure for easy on and off, and lightweight material for comfortable movement, these hiking sandals are a steal. One reviewer raved, “I loved this sandal. It’s so comfortable. I am going to do a lot of walking and these are perfect!” Snag them in white and lime or black and white.
3
Best lightweight hiking sandal
Bedrock Sandals Cairn Adventure Sandals
3
Best lightweight hiking sandal
Bedrock Sandals Cairn Adventure Sandals
Pros
- Ultra-light and minimalist
- Secure fit
Cons
- Some reviewers said the top straps take getting used to
The unique Y-strap system and exclusive Vibram XS Trek Regolith sole make for a secure, comfortable, and ultra-durable sandal. The sole is also light and minimalist for flexibility, ground feel, and versatility, and the polyester webbing is comfortable and fast drying. One reviewer raved, “Who knew a few straps and a flexible toe thong could be so darned comfortable and rugged? Have worn these for over two weeks scaling the rocks, waters, and muddy banks of the Willamette river with my dog with nary a blister, abrasion, or sore spot.”
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4
Best Closed Toe Hiking Sandal
KEEN Women's Newport H2
4
Best Closed Toe Hiking Sandal
KEEN Women's Newport H2
Pros
- Waterproof
- Thick outsole
Cons
- Some reviewers said they run small
“This is the closest you can get to a hiking shoe that doubles as a sandal,” Dr. Oldani says. “It has an extremely thick outsole that is similar to what you would find in a hiking shoe or boot. The outsole also extends past the toes, to provide protection when hiking on rocky trails.” One reviewer who wore them for eight hours straight on their first day found their feet didn’t hurt at all. “I like these so much, I’m hoping to pick up another pair in one of the other fun bright colors as well,” they wrote.
5
Best hiking sandals for rocky trails
Teva Women's Terra FI 5 Sport Sandal
5
Best hiking sandals for rocky trails
Teva Women's Terra FI 5 Sport Sandal
Pros
- Great grip
- Extra cushioning
Cons
- Some reviewers complained the plastic buckle can rub
Made from quick-drying recycled polyester webbing and a sturdy rubber sole, these sandals can really stand up to the elements. Plus, the buckle closure allows for easy on and off and the extra cushioning along the posts keeps your foot extra comfy while in motion. They’re supportive due to midsole cushions and have a grippy sole on wet and dry terrain. One reviewer said, “Comfortable, adjustable for my wide feet, and high arch. Stylish, yet great traction for hiking trails.”
6
Best waterproof hiking sandal
Astral Women's PFD Sport Sandal
6
Best waterproof hiking sandal
Astral Women's PFD Sport Sandal
Pros
- Waterproof
- No-slip grip
Cons
- Design may be a little bulky
Built as secure as a sneaker, these sandals have a shoe-like fit with a no-slip grip in and out of the water from a rubber sole and a zero-drop footbed that maintains the foot’s natural alignment for balance and stability. Plus, the EVA foam midsole wicks away water to keep your feet fresh. One reviewer raved, “Whether you are kayaking, hiking through riverbeds, or just wading into an area that’s a little bit mucky, these shoes will not disappoint! They dry quickly, they have absolutely no smell to them, and they secure really well to your foot.
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7
Best adjustable hiking sandal
Xero Shoes Women's Z-Trail
7
Best adjustable hiking sandal
Xero Shoes Women's Z-Trail
Pros
- Encourage natural foot movement
- Adjustable
- Available in men and women’s styles
Cons
- Some reviewers said they are a bit narrow
Designed with non-abrasive tubular webbing and adjustable tension Z-pattern straps, these sandals are made for your feet. We especially love the natural feel of the sole from a rubber grip base, foam layer for protection, and comfort foam layer so your foot can move naturally. One reviewer said, “Wife and I both have a pair. We wear them everywhere. My favorite footwear overall of my entire life. Makes your feet feel so light, comfy, and free.”
8
Best sports sandal
HOKA Hopara Multisport Sandals
8
Best sports sandal
HOKA Hopara Multisport Sandals
Pros
- Great for multiple sports
- Available in men and women’s styles
Cons
- Some reviewers complained they run warm
From dry to wet terrain, these sandals have cutouts for drainage, reduced friction when wet from gusseted neoprene construction, and sticky rubber outsoles to provide traction. They also have a rubberized EVA midsole for cushion, a rubberized toe cap for extra protection, and a quick-lace system that is easily adjustable. They’re ideal for those who like to go from the trails to the water to their bike. One reviewer who wore the sandals for hiking and stream walking said, “The support and cushion are awesome. So awesome that I convinced my husband to get a pair.”
9
Best color selection
ECCO Yucatan Sport Sandal
Pros
- Multiple color options
- Extra cushions and adjustability
Cons
- Some reviewers said they run small
Choose from 19 color combinations and you’ll have the perfect pair. These sandals are made from leather and textile with a synthetic sole. There are three points of adjustability and neoprene lining for a comfortable fit. Plus, midsole foam provides extra cushion and they’re designed for excellent stability, support, and grip. One reviewer who has plantar facilities wore these sandals in Disney World for more than six hours and said, “These sandals were perfect. My feet felt supported and didn’t hurt at all.”
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10
Best Men’s Hiking Sandal
Naot Electric Sandal
10
Best Men’s Hiking Sandal
Naot Electric Sandal
Pros
- Molds to the shape of your foot
- Padded straps for comfort and moisture absorption
Cons
- Only available in men’s sizes
Dr. Oldani says, “These sandals check all the boxes for hiking.” He points out that their ultra-durable sole and footbed are made from cork and latex with a suede cover, making them a unique hiking sandal. “This provides excellent support and shock absorption while molding to your foot with each use,” he notes. Additionally, they have a padded backstrap and double hook and loop straps to avoid slippage. One reviewer said, “Most comfort and support than any shoe, let alone sandal, that I have ever worn.”
How to choose the best hiking sandal
When choosing a hiking sandal that will keep you safe, secure, and supported, Dr. Oldani suggests following these tips to avoid plantar facilities, posterior tibial tendonitis, and metatarsalgia.
- Choose a sturdy sole. Dr. Oldani recommends a sole that is sturdy enough to “withstand the rigors of hiking.” This means it should be constructed with polyurethane and be thicker than a normal sandal.
- Select support. Choose a sandal that has enough support and cushioning throughout the arch to absorb shock, Dr. Oldani says.
- Ensure it’s secure. Be sure the sandal is secured very well to the foot and includes strong, supportive straps. Dr. Oldani says this will help avoid blisters and extra friction. Additionally, avoid sandals that do not secure at the heel, as these can lead to more movement when walking.
Arielle Weg
Arielle Weg is the associate editor at Prevention and loves to share her favorite wellness and nutrition obsessions. She previously managed content at The Vitamin Shoppe, and her work has also appeared in Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Cooking Light, MyRecipes, and more. You can usually find her taking an online workout class or making a mess in the kitchen, creating something delicious she found in her cookbook collection or saved on Instagram.
