The Best Hiking Sandals

The Best Hiking Sandals
When warm weather arrives you might consider trading your bulky boots for a pair of streamlined sandals, but choosing which sandal is right can be a difficult decision. The right hiking sandals offer the best in comfort, support, traction and style so you can easily make the transition from heavier boots.

Chaco Z/2's

Chaco's trademark BioCentric foot bed has been specifically designed to provide the maximum amount of support and performance. The continuous adjustable straps and sticky rubber soles help create a sandal that is stable on the foot and the ground. Chacos have earned the recommendation of podiatrists and have been awarded the Seal of Acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Chaco Z/2's come in whole sizes only and can be purchased in medium or wide widths for both men and women. They cost $95, as of March 2010.

Keen Newport

The Keen Newport sandal protects your toes and lets your feet breathe. The original sandal in Keen's footwear line, the Newport features protective rubber toe guards, adjustable straps for a secure fit, contoured foot beds for personalized comfort and microbe blocking technology to avoid bacteria that causes odor and shoe breakdown. The sandal is made for land or water hiking. Keen Newports come in U.S. half sizes for women and men. They also are available in infant, kids and youth sizes. The sandals retail for $95, as of March 2010.

Merrell Siren Ginger

This sandal caters to the more fashion-savvy wearer but don't be fooled by its cute exterior. The Merrell Siren Ginger features two adjustable straps (rear strap is removable) to enhance security and lateral and medial stability. With quick-drying mesh and a sticky rubber sole, the sandals are efficient for hiking in wet places.
They are available in U.S. half sizes for women only and cost $90, as of March 2010.

Merrell Chameleon3 Maze

Featuring a secure-lock lacing system and Merrell's trademarke in-board foot frame, the Chameleon3 Maze is designed for stability and shock absorption. Its blend of foot protection and breathability make the sandal a good fit for any adventure. The Chameleon3 Maze comes in men's half sizes 7 to 12 and whole sizes 12 to15. They are priced at $110, as of March 2010.

Teva Terra Fi 3

Meaning nature in Hebrew, Teva has been pioneering hiking sandals for 25 years. The Terra Fi 3 is one of Teva's premier sport sandals thanks to its patented exterior schoc pad and a nylon shank for added support. The sandal is easy to wear, easy to wash then easy to wear again. The Terra Fi 3 is available in women's and men's half sizes. They cost $80, as of March 2010.

Article Written By Hollie Reina

Based in St. George, Utah, Hollie Reina recently started her professional writing career writing outdoor-related articles for Trails.com. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Utah.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword