Reviews You Can Rely On

10 Best Sandals of 2025

We tested sandals and flip flops from Chaco, Bedrock, Teva, Birkenstock, and more to bring you the best options for men and women
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Best Sandals Review
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Maggie Nichols
By Maggie Nichols ⋅ Senior Review Editor  ⋅  Updated December 2, 2025

Are you still searching for your sandal “sole” mate? We know finding the right pair can be a task. Our male and female test teams embarked on 27-mile hikes and multi-week rafting trips, trekked through dozens of countries, and enjoyed relaxing all summer in these sandals (and sometimes into fall, with socks — don't judge us!)

Our testers rated Chaco Z/Cloud 2 as their favorite overall women's sandal, and men rated the Bedrock Cairn Evo as the best. Those on tighter budgets might like to check out some other great options, like the women's Teva Original Universal and the men's Dream Pairs Adventurous Summer.

We also have a detailed flip flop review.

Editor's Note: On December 2, 2025, we added more of our favorites and updated our buying advice to better help you make an informed decision.

Related: Best Sandals for Women
Related: Best Sandals for Men

12 Best Sandals


Best All-Around Sandals for Women


Chaco Z/Cloud 2 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Superior stability and traction in all situations
Good arch support
Toe loop adds security
A ton of patterns and colors
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulky and on the heavy side
Involved adjustment process

Who it is best for: The Chaco Z/Cloud 2 is ideal for adventure enthusiasts seeking a reliable sandal for backpacking, rafting, or hiking. One of our lead testers with over 15 years of guiding experience swears by their durability and stability on diverse terrains, such as rocky river crossings or long hikes.

Why we love it: It has outstanding traction and durability on varied surfaces. Our tester joked, “They're nearly as trusty as my PFD.” Though the adjustable toe loop requires effort to set, it significantly enhances stability and security, ensuring a solid, grounded feel during intense activities.

Should you buy it? This is a great choice if you need a sandal for serious hiking and value traction and stability over lightweight design. However, they are among the bulkiest and heaviest sandals tested, with the tester noting, “I never felt light and free. But I always felt solid and grounded.” Adjusting the toe loop is complex and demands patience, but it boosts security.

sandals - we appreciate the traction, security, and comfort this adventure...
We appreciate the traction, security, and comfort this adventure sandal gives us.   Credit: Kate Pitts

Read more: Women's Chaco Z/Cloud 2 review

Read more: Men's Chaco Z Cloud review

Best All-Around Sandals for Men


Bedrock Cairn Evo


REASONS TO BUY
Simple adjustments
Great traction and stability
Flexible sole
REASONS TO AVOID
Not supportive
Lack cushioning

Who it is best for: The Bedrock Cairn Evo is a well-made sandal that's great for those wanting more ground sensitivity, as Bedrock designed this to be a minimalist shoe. Its slimmer footbed moves with your foot for flexibility and comfort, and its outsole is made with Vibram XS Trek EVO, which provides dependable grip in both wet and dry conditions. The sandal's patented strap system offers multiple points of adjustment for a secure, customized fit that worked for several different testers and their various foot shapes. One of our main sandals experts also added, “The Cairn EVO is designed to be long-lasting and resoleable, so it's a good investment for outdoor enthusiasts who want reliable footwear that can be rejuvenated to stand the test of time.”

Why we love it: This was a unique sandal that offered better performance and comfort than other minimalist designs. Its zero-drop footbed has a textured surface that kept our feet securely in place, while the Vibram sole offered exceptional grip throughout testing, even while scrambling wet granite. The simple strap system uses soft nylon with concealed seams to minimize irritation when tightened, allowing for easy adjustments that keep the foot stable. “It's like a flip flop that doesn't flop,” said one tester. “The straps keep it secured comfortably in place.” We also loved the aesthetics of the Cairn Evo, and wore them with jeans at social events.

Should you buy it? The Bedrock Cairn Evo should be put in your shopping cart if you want a minimalist sandal that offers more adjustability and traction than your typical bare-bones design. If you're wanting more arch support, we'd steer you elsewhere, but as our head sandals expert concluded, “I loved the unique blend of sensitivity, sole protection, and traction of the Cairn Evo, which I haven't yet seen in another minimalist sandal.”

Comfortable straps keep these minimalist sandals secure.   Credit: Travis Reddinger

Read more: Men's Bedrock Cairn Evo review

Read more: Women's Bedrock Cairn Evo review

Best Adventure Sandal on a Tight Budget


Teva Original Universal - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Easy adjustment
Good stability and solid traction
Tons of colors and patterns
REASONS TO AVOID
Not accommodating for wide feet or arch support
Straps can be scratchy

Who it is best for: The Teva Original Universal is an ideal sandal if you're needing some open-toed “adventure” footwear but can't quite swing the premium prices. These are great for anyone with narrower feet who doesn't need much arch support. “I also became a big fan of the easy adjustment system, which was friendlier to use than some of the top-dollar competition,” one of our head testers shared.

Why we love it: These sandals uniquely combine minimalist design with practical functionality, offering barefoot-like freedom while maintaining durability and reliable traction. Their thinner, flexible soles allow for natural foot movement and enhanced ground feel, setting them apart from heavier sandals like Chacos. These have a secure and customizable fit and are equipped with sturdy, easy-to-adjust Velcro straps that our testers praised. Lightweight and compact, these sandals are easy to pack and come in a rotating variety of colors and patterns, so you can find your personal style.

Should you buy it? The Teva Original Universal is a compelling option for anyone seeking an affordable, stylish sandal that handles everyday adventures and travel with ease. That said, it's not without its flaws in tougher or wetter environments. As one of our testers observed, “Particularly in water, I found myself slipping in the footbeds, and when I tightened them, the edges of the straps can be a bit scratchy. It's also noticeable how narrow this sandal is on my feet.” Additionally, the flat footbeds lack arch support, so if that's a priority or you need footwear built for more demanding use, it's worth considering other alternatives.

Read more: Women's Teva Original Universal review

Read more: Men's Teva Original Universal review

sandals - sandals with socks? sometimes it's nice to have a sandal that allows...
Sandals with socks? Sometimes it's nice to have a sandal that allows us to layer and keep our toes warm.   Credit: Kate Pitts

Best Budget Sandal for Men


Dream Pairs Adventurous Summer


REASONS TO BUY
Comfortable footbed
Easy to secure
Good foot protection
REASONS TO AVOID
Noisy
Average traction

Who it is best for: The Dream Pairs Adventurous Summer is best suited for mild adventures or use around the beach and paddleboarding. This water shoe style sandal is simple to slip on for those who want something comfortable and water capable that won't stress the budget. One tester noted the sandals' utility, saying, “These are good for quick trips to the beach or when you don't plan on encountering aggressive terrain.” With a roomy internal space, these would suit those with wider feet who want a softer footbed.

Why we love it: Protective and lightweight, this breathable sandal feels secure without causing pressure points. The shoe-like design provides good lateral stability, and an easy-to-adjust heel strap helps to prevent foot slippage on inclines and declines. Though the tread pattern is not very aggressive, traction on hills was adequate.

Should you buy it? If you want an affordable sandal with more coverage for everyday use, then this is a solid choice. They have good comfort through the day and a bungee cord cinch and Velcro heel strap for quick securement. Keep in mind they don't provide great traction and long-term durability may be questionable, so if you require a robust sandal, then consider other models.

sandals - these simple to use sandals provide good toe protection and...
These simple to use sandals provide good toe protection and comfortable footbed.   Credit: Travis Reddinger

Great Support and Protection


Keen Newport H2 - Women's


REASONS TO BUY
Great support and very comfortable
Stable, with secure fit
Solid traction and great toe protection
REASONS TO AVOID
Narrow and challenging to pull on
Not overly adjustable

Who it is best for: The Keen Newport H2 is ideal for diehard adventurers who prioritize foot protection, security, and stability for wet outdoor activities like kayaking, dock walking, or just long days on their feet. Best suited for those with narrower feet due to its snug fit and lack of wide sizes, it's perfect for users who value a supportive footbed and protective design over minimalist or highly adjustable sandals.

Why we love it: This has unmatched security and stability, with our lead women's sandals tester stating, “The Newports gave me a lot of confidence on all surfaces.” The rubber bumper and extra straps provide exceptional toe and side-foot protection, creating a “safely cocooned” feel, as noted by our tester. Its soft, well-contoured footbeds with minute channels to wick sweat away keep feet drier, while the midsole and outsole offer superb support for extended wear, making it one of the most secure sandals tested.

Should you buy it? If you need a highly protective, stable sandal for moderate adventures, this is a top choice, though its distinct 'cocoon' style and narrow fit may not suit everyone. Our tester noted, “I like the style. But it is not for everyone. I also found my toes got a little clammy in hot weather.” The toggled bungee adjustment can be challenging when pulling over heels and lacks the rugged traction of adventure-focused sandals. Consider other options if you need wide sizes or plan for intense wet conditions.

Read more: Women's Keen Newport H2 review

Read more: Men's Keen Newport H2 review

sandals - we were impressed with the traction on these sandals. they also...
We were impressed with the traction on these sandals. They also provided great protection for our feet.   Credit: Kate Pitts

Best Adventure Sandal


Chaco Z/2 Classic


REASONS TO BUY
Simple adjustments
Good traction
Great traction and good stability
REASONS TO AVOID
No half sizes

Who it is best for: The Chaco Z/2 Classic is a great choice for those wanting a “one-stop-shop” from their next sandal that'll keep up with most open-toed ambitions. The Z/2 is a do-it-all option that'll keep you happy on hikes, rowdy days on the river, or lengthy adventures on a boat. As one of our primary men's testers commented, “I grabbed these sandals anytime I suspected the day might be longer or more intense.” The best part? The Z/2 is still great for any casual outing, from beach lounging to social gatherings at a local happy hour.

Why we love it: Our team loved the adjustable polyester webbing and its secure toe loop, providing a personalized, “locked-in” feel that makes the sandals feel like an extension of our feet. The sandal is built with Chaco's signature LUVSEAT midsole, providing excellent arch support and promoting healthy foot alignment, making it a favorite for all-day wear and outdoor adventures. Its rugged ChacoGrip rubber outsole also delivered reliable traction on wet and dry surfaces throughout our testing process.

Should you buy it? The Z/2 is the right sandal for you if you need your open-toed footwear to handle it all, from a casual coffee shop run to an intense day on a rough river. This is also a worthwhile choice if you're needing a sandal that has a more secure foot strap system, as our head men's sandal tester concluded, “Once you get the hang of the slip-through strap adjustments that goes under the footbed, the Z/2's fit becomes very customizable, so it can keep up with your next adventure.”

Thick, secure straps and supportive footbed make this burly sandal great for various uses.   Credit: Travis Reddinger

Read more: Men's Chaco Z/2 Classic review

Plush Comfort Choice


Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed


REASONS TO BUY
Unparalleled comfort
Great arch support
Customized plush feel
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Not designed for water

Who it is best for: The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed and women's slide are ideal for casual sandal enthusiasts who prioritize exceptional comfort and style for everyday wear, such as lounging or long days on their feet in dry settings. Perfect for those with supported arches who value a moldable, high-quality cork and leather design, these sandals suit users willing to invest in a premium, iconic sandal for non-watery environments.

Why we love it: Luxurious comfort is enhanced by a latex foam layer in the moldable cork and leather footbed, delivering a softer feel while maintaining Birkenstock's renowned support. Both men's and women's testing teams found it exceptionally comfortable for long days, with well-supported arches and an EVA outsole offering decent traction for casual settings. Its classic, stylish design makes it a longtime fan favorite in casual footwear.

Should you buy it? If you're seeking a premium, comfortable option for dry, casual settings, the Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed is a phenomenal choice, but its high price may not suit budget-conscious buyers. It's not designed for water exposure, as soaking can degrade the sealant and finishes, making it unsuitable for beach or river trips.

sandals - the birkenstocks are supportive and comfortable, but be sure you...
The Birkenstocks are supportive and comfortable, but be sure you don't get them wet.   Credit: Jacob Clark

Best Recovery Sandal for Women


Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3


REASONS TO BUY
Anatomical footbed and massaging meta-rocker
Plush cusion
Reduces foot fatigue
Very light and packable
REASONS TO AVOID
Limited colors
Not ideal for casual wear

Who it is best for: The HOKA Ora Recovery Slide 3 is a great choice for athletes, runners, and anyone who experiences foot fatigue or soreness after intense activity or a long day on the feet. It offers great cushioning and ergonomic support to help alleviate pressure points and promote faster recovery. The slide features a dual-density foam construction that combines a soft top layer to cradle the foot with a firmer base for stability. It's designed to help prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot without overcorrecting gait, providing moderate stability suitable for neutral foot types. Lightweight and breathable, the slide is also easy to slip on and off, making it convenient for post-workout use, casual indoor wear, or light outdoor activities. “Overall, I think this sandal is perfect for those seeking both comfort and functional recovery support in a versatile sandal,” our head women's sandal tester concluded.

Why we love it: It delivers that signature Hoka cushioning in its purest, most easygoing form—a soft, supportive platform that hugs tired feet after long runs, hikes, or workdays. The injection-molded EVA ensures a plush, responsive underfoot - dare we say "massage sensation"? We love how the rocker-shaped sole helps your feet transition smoothly from heel to toe, even when you're just padding around the house or swimming pool.

Should you buy it? As long as style isn't high on your needs list, the Ora Recovery Slide 3 is a phenomenal slide for recovery and can even be used for all-day vegging. “I loved being able to effortlessly slip into these to give both my feet and legs a well-deserved break,” one of our gear experts shared. While this isn't what we'd recommend for high-mileage days, it's a great companion to your day of relaxation or recovery.

Read more: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3 review

sandals - this sandal is designed with foot health in mind, offering...
This sandal is designed with foot health in mind, offering supportive cushioning and anatomical shaping.   Credit: Kate Pitts

Best Casual Sandal for Men


Chaco Bodhi


REASONS TO BUY
Easy securement
Lighter sole
Stable and supportive
REASONS TO AVOID
No half sizes
Less aggressive tread

Who it is best for: The Chaco Bodhi is a great option that's on the lighter side of Chaco's lineup. While some of the siblings to the Bodhi are meant to take on the biggest and baddest adventures, this sandal prioritizes a lower weight and a more modest foot securement system to create a sandal that thrives in casual settings, though it can handle some rugged terrain. “I loved wearing this sandal for social hangs by the water or in the summer heat,” one of our men's sandals experts shared, “and it still has Chaco's reputable comfort for longer days on the feet.”

Why we love it: Supportive and durable, these sandals have all the features you come to expect from Chaco without excessive weight or extra straps. We love the twist on the usual Chaco styling. The comfortable, thinner footbed has a natural contour, and the toe loop helps with lateral stability and securement. “These were one of the more comfortable and natural-feeling Chaco sandals I have tried,” noted one tester. The tread is not the most aggressive we have tested, but it works well for everyday use and performs well on most trails.

Should you buy it? Whether or not this is the right sandal for you all comes down to your intended uses. If you're not getting too exploratory with your open-toed footwear, the Bodhi's feel and long-lasting construction might be just what you're looking for. “While this wasn't my favorite for more intense whitewater boating, it was great for hiking and hanging around town,” one of our main sandals experts shared.

Read more: Men's Chaco Bodhi review

sandals - a stylish option for daily use and casual off trail adventures.
A stylish option for daily use and casual off trail adventures.   Credit: Travis Reddinger

A Great Minimal Option for Men


Xero H-Trail


REASONS TO BUY
Great weight
Easy to adjust
Traction that can be trusted
REASONS TO AVOID
Thin sole isn't as protective
Essentially no support

Who it is best for: The Xero H-Trail is worth considering if you want greater sensitivity and a thinner sole from your next sandal. While this barefoot-style sandal doesn't boast quite as much cushion, we were slowly able to progress to bigger days with the H-Trail as our feet got used them. As one of our testers commented, “I love being able to feel the ground. Minimalist sandals are becoming more and more popular, and this is a great choice if you have the less-is-more mindset.”

Why we love it: We are big fans of the minimal weight of the Xero H-Trail, coming in at a modest 12.28 ounces for a pair of men's size 10. The simple design provides easy adjustability in the attachment straps, made with polyester webbing, and held up throughout testing. It lacks the cushion of other models, but it's a very comfy pair of sandals when considering its footwear class.

Should you buy it? If you're a barefoot footwear aficionado, the Xero H-Trail should be on your finals list. It doesn't have much in the way of a midsole, but one of our sandals experts put it best: “The H-Trail falls into the minimalist niche of the sandals category, so you need to think of this almost as a different class of open-toed footwear than your typical sandal. I'd suggest these to anyone who wants best-in-class ground sensitivity or if your feet are already accustomed to barefoot-style shoes.”

Read more: Men's Xero H-Trail review

sandals - these are great sandals if you're a fan of more minimalist footwear.
These are great sandals if you're a fan of more minimalist footwear.   Credit: Travis Reddinger

Men's Best Toe Protection


Keen Newport H2


REASONS TO BUY
Large rubber toe cap
Supportive for longer walks
Versatile for dry or wet terrain
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks adjustability
Not the best looks

Who it is best for: If you need a sandal that offers more protection for the top of your foot, the Keen Newport H2 is a great choice. These are very capable sandals that are almost as protective as water shoes and are equally happy on long dry hikes or days playing in and around a river. “While the Newports can be worn around town, they aren't the most stylish, and I found them best for active days in and around the water or when I needed some breathability,” one tester commented.

Why we love it: All of our testing team has, at some point or another, bludgeoned their toes and toenails while wearing sandals, but the Newport H2 offers a rubberized toe cap and upper-foot protection for rougher terrain. It's also got a dependable outsole, so we could trust our feet as we scrambled across river banks or crawled around on sandy beach approaches.

Should you buy it? As long as you don't mind the aesthetics of the Newport H2, this is a worthwhile hybrid shoe with the breathability of a sandal and the protection of a water shoe. “If you're tired of scraping skin or blackening toenails, I'd go with the Newport H2,” our head reviewer shared, “especially if you like to log big mileage with your sandals.” These have become a staple of the breathable footwear industry, and for good reason.

Read more: Keen Newport H2 review

sandals - the keen newport h2 is a phenomenal sandal for toe and upper foot...
The Keen Newport H2 is a phenomenal sandal for toe and upper foot protection.   Credit: Travis Reddinger

Women's Bargain Option for Comfort


Cushionaire Luna Cork Footbed


REASONS TO BUY
Very low price for a cork bed
Customized feel after break-in
Easy to style with over 20 color options
REASONS TO AVOID
Less durable than the high-end competition
Shouldn't get wet

Who it is best for: The Cushionaire Luna Cork Footbed is a great buy for someone wanting a cork slide-in sandal but can't afford the premium prices from manufacturers like Birkenstock. While these aren't quite as comfortable, they are a fraction of the cost and come in a variety of colors to get the aesthetic that you want, making them great for casual use around town or for short strolls outdoors.

Why we love it: Cork is an incredible material for footwear, as it dampens impact and creates a customized feel in a matter of days. While many options that are made with cork are pricey, the Luna Cork Footbed is much more affordable, which our team greatly appreciated. “I was thrilled to see a company like Cushionaire create a more budget-friendly model, and I loved its feel on my feet.”

Should you buy it? While we do think the premium cork options out there are worth the money, the Luna is substantially easier on the wallet and still offers some performance. “The Luna's upper was prone to some cracking where the ball of the foot bends, but it impacted more of the aesthetics than the feel,” one of our women's sandal experts shared.

Read more: Cushionaire Luna Cork Footbed review

sandals - from relaxing at the fairgrounds to friendly hikes around town, the...
From relaxing at the fairgrounds to friendly hikes around town, the Luna is a comfy sandal that's very inexpensive for a cork footbed model.   Credit: Kate Pitts

How We Tested


After researching hundreds of the market's most promising sandals, we purchased a selection of the best models for testing. Testing sandals means taking them far beyond the comfort of the store shelf and out into the real world. We hiked through mud, scrambled over slick rocks in terrain questionable for open-toed footwear, forded rivers, and spent long days on dry hikes to see how each pair performed. The goal was to find out how the sandals reacted when wet, hot, dirty, and pushed to their limits. Testers noted how the straps felt after miles of wear, whether the soles held steady on slippery ground, and how the cushioning stood up after days(or months) of use. By the end, every scuff, abrasion, and water stain told a story about the sandal's true durability and comfort—proof that only real-world testing can reveal.

sandals - we tested dozens of sandals for both men and women to bring you the...
We tested dozens of sandals for both men and women to bring you the best options on the market.   Credit: Maggie Nichols

Why Trust GearLab


We've been pushing outdoor equipment and open-toed footwear to its limits for years, continually refining our approach to sandals examination. Our team is composed of river guides, wilderness rangers, mountain guides, medical professionals, and all are absolute sandals fanatics. We've worn this footwear through everything from rocky riverbeds to dusty desert trails, learning firsthand what holds up and what doesn't. For us, comfort, grip, and breathability aren't just checklist items—they're the difference between a good day outside and a trip-ending slip or hotspot. That kind of experience shapes how we think, test, and talk about sandals because, at the end of the day, we're not just reviewing sandals, we're living in them.

sandals - we live in our open-toed footwear, whether testing flip flops or...
We live in our open-toed footwear, whether testing flip flops or traditional sandals, and we never stop improving our examination process.   Credit: Zach Lovell

Kate Pitts heads up our “feet-forward” women's sandals team. She's amassed thousands of trail miles and has worked as a National Park Service ranger in iconic locations such as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Rocky Mountain, Bryce Canyon, and Haleakala. Kate brings unparalleled expertise in foot care and outdoor footwear. She's intimately familiar with the impact of subpar sandals on hardworking feet—from treating blistered and fatigued feet in backcountry clinics to experiencing firsthand the relief her own feet crave during strenuous thru-hikes. Today, as a wilderness guide, EMT, and seasoned gear tester, she is discerning about sandal features that truly make a difference—favoring designs that offer lasting comfort, durability, and protection for feet that consistently face tough, varied terrain.

Maggie Nichols has been a sandals fanatic her entire life. Since 2007, she has relied heavily on sandals as her go-to footwear while guiding a variety of backcountry trips, including multi-day backpacking, whitewater rafting, and kayaking. She's pushed what a sandal can do, from river crossings to grueling boat portages to extended hikes. Impressively, one particular pair served her faithfully for 12 years, a testament to her commitment to the sandal footwear class.

Our women's testers love adventuring in their open-toed footwear.

Contributing to our men's sandal review is Jacob Clark. Jacob's background as a climbing guide and route setter fuels his passion for exploring the wild landscapes of California's Central Coast and Los Padres National Forest. Whether he's traversing rocky shorelines or sprinting along forest trails, he depends on a dependable pair of rugged sandals—his constant companion on every adventure. These sandals have proven themselves time and again, balancing resilience and comfort to keep up with the demands of his active, outdoors-driven lifestyle.

Joining Jacob is Travis Reddinger. Travis is an avid outdoors enthusiast who calls Minnesota home. When the weather warms, he prefers minimalist footwear during his favorite activities—fishing in the state's many lakes, hunting in its forests, and rock climbing. As temperatures drop and winter takes hold, Travis shifts focus to testing robust winter boots, ensuring his gear holds up against the harsh cold and snow. Throughout the year, he fully immerses himself in the outdoor lifestyle that Minnesota's changing seasons uniquely offer.

Also joining the men's testing team is Mountain Guide Zach Lovell. Zach has likely spent about a third of his life slipping into sandals and flip-flops, craving the open-toed freedom as a much-needed respite from the rigid confines of climbing shoes and ski boots. With over a decade of experience in product testing, he approaches every category with relentless curiosity, meticulously dissecting every detail to understand performance and durability. His deep dive into gear often borders on obsessive, driven by a passion to find footwear that perfectly balances comfort, functionality, and longevity for life both on and off the trail.

sandals - we love pushing open-toed footwear in unconventional settings to...
We love pushing open-toed footwear in unconventional settings to better examine traction and durability.   Credit: Zach Lovell

Beyond the core group of reviewers, we expanded our testing circle to include a diverse range of additional testers who assessed fit, comfort, traction, and the ideal use cases for each sandal. When it came to the highly subjective realm of style, we tapped into the perspectives of dozens of friends, family members, community participants, and even complete strangers, gathering real-world feedback to capture a broad spectrum of opinions as each sandal was put through its paces.

We walked, hiked, ran, and scrambled for miles to test these sandals.   Credit: Maggie Nichols

Women's Sandals


We've worn dozens of pairs of women's-specific sandals over the past decade. In our latest and greatest review, we identify a variety of our favorites across intended uses, budget, and style.


Men's Sandals


Below are the overall scores from our review of sandals for men. We recommend checking it out to go deeper into the specific sandals we tested to get more details on your next pair.


How to Pick the Best Sandals for You


While most footwear that's considered a sandal has the same basics of a sole, straps, and (sometimes) a way to adjust those straps, there are a number of aspects you should consider before hitting the “buy” button when shopping online.

sandals - if you want to wear socks with your sandals, we're down with that.
If you want to wear socks with your sandals, we're down with that.   Credit: Miya Tsudome

Main Design Options


While there are many nuances in the design of a sandal, there are a few main categories you should know about within this breathable footwear. We consider classic sandals to be models with a fairly cushy sole and two adjustable straps across the top of the foot, with a fixed heel strap system. Within this design are endless variations, from toe-wrapping straps to bungee-tightening systems. Another large category of sandal are slide-ins, which don't require tightening in order to wear, though some have strap adjustability. These have a wide range of aesthetics and design specifics, but all simply require one to slip their foot inside to get walking.

sandals - slide-ins are great for a variety of activities, especially lounging...
Slide-ins are great for a variety of activities, especially lounging by the pool.   Credit: Kate Pitts

Flip flops are also considered sandals, though they are generally less performance-focused compared to a classic design. Last, but not least, we've seen minimalist sandals gain more and more popularity, which are effectively a classic sandal with very little outsole or midsole. These are just one small step above going barefoot, but many shoppers have become huge fans of this bare bones footwear.

sandals - flip flops are a great class of sandal for more casual adventures.
Flip flops are a great class of sandal for more casual adventures.   Credit: Brooke Hess

Construction 101 of a Sandal


A sandal is made up of several key components that work together to provide comfort, support, and durability. The sole, typically made from rubber, leather, or synthetic materials, is the bottom part that contacts the ground and provides traction and protection. Above the sole is the footbed or insole, responsible for cushioning the foot and often including arch support for added comfort. The upper consists of straps or bands made from materials like nylon, leather, or synthetic fabrics that secure the sandal to the foot, with adjustments possible through buckles or Velcro. Some sandals also include a midsole layer between the sole and footbed for extra cushioning or shock absorption. The construction methods (think stitching, gluing, or molding) ensure these parts are firmly attached while maintaining flexibility and durability. Together, these elements create a functional sandal suitable for various activities, from casual wear to rugged outdoor use.

Sandal Comfort Considerations


When considering a sandal's comfort, several important factors come into play. A contoured footbed provides ergonomic support, aligning with the natural shape and curves of the foot to prevent strain and discomfort. Adequate cushioning in the heel and forefoot absorbs impact, making walking more comfortable and reducing stress on the joints. Adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, ensuring the sandal stays secure without pinching or causing blisters. Breathable, moisture-wicking straps help keep feet cool and dry, though some straps can lead to sweaty feet. It's important to make sure your sandals are the right width and length for your unique foot shape to prevent rubbing and pressure points.

Do Footbeds Mold to Your Foot?


Whether looking at a premium sandal or a bargain-priced model, there will likely be at least some moldings in the footbed of your prospective sandal. Top-shelf models have moldable EVA foam or cork, which will offer a customized feel fairly quickly. We've seen these adapt to a foot within about a week of regular use. Even cheaper options use some sort of foam in the midsole that'll adapt to your foot and gait eventually.

sandals - we've found every pair of sandals to offer at least some footbed...
We've found every pair of sandals to offer at least some footbed molding, but the amount of molding varies greatly between models.   Credit: Kate Pitts

Intended Uses


As is often the case with gear or clothing, you've got to do a deep dive into where and how you're planning to use your sandals. Are you a casual wearer who just likes to use sandals occasionally for a beach stroll or a river day? Do you need something for weekly (or daily) boating adventures? Or are you hunting for a pair that can handle a few dozen miles a week of walking/hiking? If your needs are on the lighter side, you might be able to get away with a more casual pair of sandals that's less expensive, as your demands on the rubber and cloth are likely much less than the serious whitewater kayaker. Alternatively, if you're someone who wears sandals for everything, from day hikes to dog walks to social hangs, a pricier and more durable pair might offer much higher value in the long run. As you determine where you'll be taking your sandals, look carefully at the review of your prospective footwear. We've shared some key pros, cons, and use considerations to help you determine if a model is right for you.

sandals - from lakeside lounging to more intense river adventures, make sure...
From lakeside lounging to more intense river adventures, make sure to consider where you're planning to take your next pair of sandals.   Credit: Syd Knadler

Traction of a Sandal


When it comes to traction, the materials used in the sole of a sandal make a big impact on grip and confidence. Rubber is the most popular choice for outsoles, thanks to its natural slip resistance, durability, and ability to maintain traction even when things get wet. Some sandals use specialty rubber blends engineered for extra grip, especially in more rugged terrain. For lighter, everyday sandals, EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is common (and is often used in the midsole). It's lightweight and adds cushioning, but doesn't offer the same reliable grip as rubber, especially on slick or uneven surfaces. You'll also see thermoplastic rubber (TPR) in many modern sandals, which provides a balance of durability and slip resistance.

Beyond the material itself, deep lugs or multidirectional tread patterns cut into the sole help channel water away from the contact points of the outsole, while a textured or slightly sticky footbed can keep your foot from sliding inside the sandal. Together, these material choices define how sure-footed you'll feel, whether you're wandering the docks or are on an adventure on the river.

sandals - the right pair of sandals can take you around the world.
The right pair of sandals can take you around the world.   Credit: Joanna Trieger

If you're looking for a more minimal option in open-toed footwear, consider some casual flip flops, which are even faster to take on or off. If you need water capabilities and greater protection on the top of your foot, check out our water shoes review and see if a pair of those might be more what you're looking for.

Conclusion


Sandals make life easier and more comfortable when the weather warms up. They're ideal for days that call for both movement and relaxation, letting your feet breathe while still offering a steady grip and lightweight feel. Slip them on after a long day to unwind, or wear them when you want a laid-back style that doesn't try too hard. Are you a water sports lover? Sandals can be a fantastic option when you're headed to the river, lake, or ocean. Whether you're exploring a new town, spending time outdoors, playing in some friendlier white water, or just enjoying a slow afternoon, sandals bring a sense of freedom that closed shoes can't match. Their simple design and natural feel make them more than just footwear—they're part of a relaxed way of living.

Maggie Nichols, Travis Reddinger, Zach Lovell, Kate Pitts, and Jacob Clark

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