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The ideal sandal provides a close, responsive connection to the terrain while offering just the right level of protection for comfort and safety.
In the last decade, we have taken over 100 sandals on diverse adventures, from the heights of the Sierra Nevada to California beaches and all the way to the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. These adventures have taken us from day treks to water sports.
The best all-around sandal for most people is the Bedrock Cairn Evo. This minimalist pair offers exceptional versatility, with great traction and a flexible sole. Testers loved the comfort and simplicity of this sandal.
The Chaco Z/2 Classic is the best adventure sandal for most people. This well-rounded sandal has the necessary comfort, support, and traction for several different environments. Despite being one of the heavier options due to the supportive footbed, the weight becomes less noticeable with regular use.
The Bedrock Cairn Evo is one of the most well-rounded sandals we tested and quickly became a favorite for the testers. These sandals have a unique 3-point strap structure that prevents shifting on the footbed. One of the most adjustable sandals in the lineup, you can fine-tune the instep, lateral, and heel straps to fit your needs. One tester specifically noted, “I am a lot more confident on the trails and rocks than with other options I've tried.” Along with the secure fit, some confidence is due to the Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole, which has an aggressive tread and provides significant traction in all environments for secure foot placement.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
Vibram XS Trek EVO
Weight (per pair)
16.23 oz (size 10)
Upper Material
Premium polyester and nylon webbing
Footbed Material
EVA
Midsole Material
EVA
One downside of the Cairn Evo is the thinner footbed that doesn't provide a lot of support. The sole isn't as thick and supportive as the 3D Pro version and feels less forgiving for shock absorption. The sandals take a little time to break in, and the textured footbed doesn't provide the same grip as the higher models. These mid-priced sandals lean more towards the minimalist style, but proved to be a very capable and durable option for a variety of terrains. If you require a more supportive sole for less aggressive use, the Chaco Z/Cloud is a comfortable choice for daily activities, while the Chaco Z/2 Classic offers more protection for adventuring.
These sandals have more than enough traction and support for inclines and rocks.
The Chaco Z/2 Classic is well suited for a variety of conditions. The thick sole provides support and protection on a variety of terrain and adequate traction on wet surfaces. The five wide straps disperse pressure evenly, and the toe loop prevents excess foot slide on hills. With a good mix of comfort and traction, one tester noted, “These sandals easily transition from errands to trails and have shown good durability.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
ChacoGrip Rubber
Weight (per pair)
30.51 oz (size 10)
Upper Material
Polyester jaquard webbing
Footbed Material
LUVSEAT PU
Midsole Material
LUVSEAT PU
A downside of having a durable and supportive sole is the weight of the extra material. The Z/2 Classic is noticeably heavier than some of the other sandals we tested, but it wasn't found to cause fatigue with long use. We also found the straps to be less comfortable when wet, but that occurred with all sandals we tested. Boasting a middle-of-the-road price tag, these sandals are great for everyday use and have the traction and support necessary for use on the trails. If you are seeking a lighter and minimalist option, make sure to check out the Xero H-Trail for your next trip.
Adventure sandals should be capable of navigating wet and dry conditions.
The Chaco Bodhi is a comfortable sandal with dependable construction and durability. The sole is softer and thinner than other Chaco models, but the contoured footbed feels more natural when walking. Simplified straps and a single buckle contribute to a lightweight feel while the toe strap prevents your foot from sliding around and feeling unstable. “These simple to use sandals are surprisingly comfortable and perfect for the warmer months” one tester raved.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
ChacoGrip Rubber
Weight (per pair)
20.85 ox (size 10)
Upper Material
Recycled jacquard webbing
Footbed Material
LUVSEAT PU
Midsole Material
LUVSEAT PU
The Bodhi doesn't have the aggressive tread pattern or depth of other sandals, so they fall a little short in the traction department. They are still a capable model for lighter trail use, but don't give the most confidence in wet or challenging environments. With an array of color schemes, these mid-priced sandals provide the Chaco comfort and durability in a lighter-weight, lower profile model. If you desire something thinner and lighter, the Earth Runners Alpha and Bedrock Cairn Evo are simple, minimalist options when size and weight matter.
The Bodhi is a comfortable option with good stability and grip.
The Xero H-Trail is a great option for those seeking a lightweight minimalist sandal for their next adventure. The thin sole adds protection with lots of dexterity and tactile feel of the ground below. This Huarache-style trail sandal has four adjustment points along the instep and heel so you can dial in the fit for different activities and foot shapes. The secure straps prevent too much movement of the foot and we found these to be one of the more comfortable options when wet.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
FeelTrue
Weight (per pair)
12.28 oz (size 10)
Upper Material
Polyester webbing
Footbed Material
BareFoam
Midsole Material
TrailFoam
The H-Trail doesn't provide a supportive footbed like some of the thicker models, and they are better suited for the barefoot style veteran. Don't let that scare you away, though; if a minimalist shoe is appealing, these are worth consideration. One tester remarked, “The comfort and adjustability are impressive for such a lightweight sandal”. If you are searching for a lightweight, minimalist sandal, this highly adjustable option will barely be noticeable in your pack or luggage. If you are searching for another streamlined sandal with a little thicker sole, the Bedrock Cairn Evo is a top contender.
These lightweight sandals have plenty of grup and are great for keeping in the backpack.
The Keen Newport H2 shines as a versatile performance sandal, excelling in wet and dry conditions. Its durable rubber outsole and foam footbed ensure grip, while the molded insole offers lightweight comfort and support. Neoprene-backed webbing enhances comfort and dries quickly. The closed-toe design protects against rocks. “I love how it handles water and trails with ease, and I don't worry about my toes,” one reviewer noted.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
Rubber
Weight (per pair)
26.63 oz (size 9.5)
Upper Material
Washable polyester webbing
Footbed Material
EVA
Midsole Material
Compression-molded EVA
One drawback of a closed-toe sandal is that it's easier for pebbles and sand to get stuck inside the shoe if you're at the beach or hiking through a rocky stream bed. This is a minor inconvenience compared to the high-end wet-condition performance of the Newport H2. Although it is ideal for watersports and our top choice for a closed-toe sandal, it also keeps up with some of the burlier models in our lineup regarding traction and stability.
The protective upper material and a sturdy sole design make the Newport H2 one of the most stable and supportive models in our lineup.
We tested everything from the thick and supportive to thin and minimalist to give you the best range of options in the market.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
How We Tested
We wore each sandal extensively over months of field testing, conducting 10+ assessments per pair. To compare performance, we evaluated traction and stability by hiking identical routes on varied terrain, including wet rocks, loose scree, and paved paths. We also took these sandals kayaking, running, and skateboarding to beach barbecues to get a good understanding of each pair's strengths and weaknesses.
Most people do not buy sandals for snow, but we test them in all conditions! Amidst uncommon sandal conditions in firm spring snowpack, the Chaco Z/Cloud offered decent traction and awesome stability.
Credit: Ian Cruess
The sandals in this lineup underwent testing across five performance metrics:
Comfort (25% of total weighted score)
Traction (25% weighting)
Stability (20% weighting)
Adjustability (15% weighting)
Versatility (15% weighting)
For additional details on our testing process for these sandals, see our full How We Test article.
Travis is an outdoor addict from Minnesota who prefers minimalist footwear during the warm months. He takes every opportunity for open footwear, whether fishing, hiking, or taking breaks when mountain biking.
Nick is a well-traveled adventurer and recognizes the significance of high-quality footwear as an essential part of his gear. He resides along California's Central Coast, allowing him to sport open-toed footwear almost year-round.
Jacob is a former climbing guide and route setter who also spends most of his year on the beaches of the Central Coast of California. His favorite local spot for hiking and running is the cherished Los Padres National Forest. He has extensive experience traversing mountain ranges throughout the US, often with his dog Eli.
We push each pair of sandals to their limit, dragging them to beaches, on hikes, and to social events.
Analysis and Test Results
We reviewed top sporty sandals from leading brands, focusing on secure fit and traction for active adventures. Our selection also includes comfort-driven and minimalist barefoot-style options, balancing performance, comfort, and value for on and off-trail activities. For a casual choice, check out our review on the best men's flip flops.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Not all footwear is made or priced equally. We've observed that lower price tags often correspond with less expensive materials. While bargain hunting can be useful in some cases, we generally don't recommend it for footwear you use regularly. When evaluating the value of these models, we looked for products that balance quality, durability, and reasonable affordability.
The Teva Hurricane XLT2, transitioning from wet rocky stream crossings back to boulder hopping and trail with ease.
Credit: Jacob Clark
For an acceptably comfortable model with great casual performance that won't empty your wallet, the Dream Pairs Adventurous Summer is priced at less than half the cost of some of its high-end competitors. For more technical terrain, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a great value option for an adventure sandal. While a bit pricier, the Chaco models, such as the Chaco Z/2 Classic, have noticeably burlier materials and a reputation for longevity.
The Katavi 2 from Teva provides excellent value, respectable all-around performance, and a list price that is half that of some of its competitors.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Comfort
Sandals are generally for casual and laid-back use. Although we selected models capable of withstanding tough conditions, we didn't want to compromise the comfortable, easy-going essence of sandals solely for performance. We carefully observed how our feet interacted with the shoes initially and over an extended period of wear. The contact points between the arch, footbed, straps, buckles, and attachments are all crucial contributors to comfort. Pairs that are ergonomic and well-designed generally receive higher scores.
We evaluated comfort during various activities, on different surfaces, and in diverse weather conditions, wearing socks when possible. After unboxing, we determined if each sandal required any break-in period before extensive use. If any hotspots or weaknesses emerged, we concentrated on the design or materials that might pose long-term issues.
Sometimes when testing gear you need to go off trail to see how these sandals will perform in less-than-ideal conditions. The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is comfortable no matter what is underfoot.
Credit: Jacob Clark
The ECCO Yucatan is an exceptional performer for comfort and versatility with supportive yet cushioned sole construction that delivers the highest comfort levels in most situations. Although individuals with flat feet may need to explore other options, this model features decent arches. The Birkenstock Arizona also stood out for its soft, conforming footbed and cozy materials. The ease of sliding these on and off additionally enhances their everyday convenience.
The ECCO Yucatan is built for stability and comfort on every terrain.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Regarding comfort, we'd be remiss not to mention the ultralight options in our lineup. These minimal sandals, such as the Luna Oso Flaco Winged, Xero Z-Trail EV, Bedrock Cairn EVO 3D Pro, and Earth Runners Alpha, are minimalist in design and subsequently less comfortable. These models aim to provide a barefoot feel, so naturally, you'll feel more rocks beneath your foot and less cushioning in your step. None of this is good or bad, but it is worth remembering in this particular category depending on your preferences.
The Luna Oso Flaco Winged keeps things minimal, but the adjustment options add to its comfort for those that enjoy this style.
Credit: Jacob Clark
The Teva Terra Fi 5 provides an incredibly comfortable footbed and is easy to secure, but it fell short due to the bulky strap mounting points that caused some chafing and bleeding until everything was broken in. The Astral Webber is a water-focused sandal with a soft, comfy foam footbed. It feels more like a shoe than a sandal and has a narrow fit, but we experienced no hotspots, and the break-in period was very quick.
Primarily a water shoe brand, Astral created a solid contender in the sandal category with what is a narrow shoe-like fit.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Traction
Today's top-performing sandals have come a long way from the slippery, spongy, bargain-bin flip-flops we wore to the pool as kids. These days, it's not uncommon to find Vibram materials or other grippy rubber on the soles of many newer models. These top offerings provide excellent traction and are versatile and functional in various situations.
We tested traction on mossy creekbeds, steep granite scrambles, and loose, dusty trails. Each model was subjected to wet and dry conditions, carrying a pack, walking uphill and downhill, and being pulled by an energetic pup. We awarded high marks to models that provided confidence in even the sketchiest conditions. The Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D and Cairn Evo did well in this category, which is unsurprising considering their aggressive tread patterns and Vibram outsole material. Our feet felt secure and locked in, no matter what conditions or surfaces we faced. The Teva Hurricane XLT2 and Keen Newport H2 also impressed in this category, with rubber soles and sufficient tread.
The Cairn Evo received top marks for traction with its impressive Vibram sole.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
Stiff-soled models like the ECCO Yucatan and all the Chaco models received respectable scores. However, they lack the raw gripping potential of a more flexible sole across all conditions. These models feature various types of hard rubber molded into sporty tread patterns that maintain traction in most conditions, including loose pebbles and wet rock. Some received deductions due to our having less confidence in steep descents and the footbed's inability to mold around the terrain.
The Ecco Yucatan can handle just about any terrain thanks to its burly built and adjustable straps.
Credit: Jacob Clark
The Keen Newport H2 falls short of our top marks in this category but still stands out with its outsole reminiscent of winter vehicle tires and optimized for wet conditions. Similarly, with its grippy Spider Rubber, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 provides dependable, well-rounded traction, though models with Vibram soles best them.
The small zig-zagging sipes on the sole of the Newport H2, a design commonly found on winter vehicle tires, provide excellent grip in wet conditions.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
In general, a benefit of minimalist sandals tends to be superior traction. A thin, flexible sole often gives a better grip on all terrains. The Luna Oso Flaco Winged and Earth Runner's Alpha offer excellent traction by molding around the surface below your feet and utilizing Vibram rubber.
The Earth Runners Alpha working its way up a slimy wet surface with relative ease and almost no slippage.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Stability
Stability is a crucial factor when evaluating the performance of technical footwear. A sandal that lacks stability resembles a flip-flop more than a sandal. We closely observed how balanced, firm, and secure our feet felt while wearing the sandals in this lineup on various terrains. Rigid (but not cumbersome) midsoles, secure straps, and superior arch support were the primary contributors to stability. High-scoring products offer a secure and stable experience in nearly all outdoor environments and activities.
The most notable models in this category are the Keen Newport H2 and ECCO Yucatan. These sandals feature a stiffer and heavier sole that can endure harsh conditions and provide significant arch support. The fully enclosed Newport H2 offers a sense of security regardless of the terrain. Similarly, the Yucatan wraps snugly around large swathes of the foot, hugging it securely. The Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro also delivers above-average stability.
Creek crossings are a great way to test the stability of each pair of sandals; our backyard trails offered plenty of opportunity during the testing process. Here we put the Teva Hurricane XLT2 to the test.
Credit: Jacob Clark
The Chaco Z/2 Classic, Bedrock Cairn Evo, and Dream Pairs Adventurous Summer all provide decent stability, albeit with significantly different designs. Flat-footed individuals or barefoot enthusiasts who prefer a “trail feel” will appreciate the Cairn options, while those seeking more support should consider the Z/2 Classic or Dream Pairs Summer.
Unsurprisingly, the Teva Original Universal, Xero H-Trail, and the other minimalist models receive generally lower scores in this metric. These models intentionally sacrifice stability for a lightweight, straightforward design. We don't expect a lightweight, flexible, barefoot-inspired model to offer exceptional stability — the idea with this type of design is that stability comes from your body instead of the shoe's architecture.
While not as flexible as some, this thin sole remains quite flexible.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Adjustability
Similar to comfort, adjustability is closely related to how a sandal interacts with the foot and, consequently, impacts overall comfort. We designed this metric to assess each contender's ergonomic function and customization, specifically, how the sandal secures to the foot. We considered the total adjustment points, their ease of adjustment, and how often they needed fine-tuning during use.
Initially, we were curious about which strap or material configuration provided the most utility. Generally, we prefer models with multiple adjustment areas that offer different fits or styles to cater to multi-sport enthusiasts. Several adjustment areas also allow for a more precise fit on irregular feet or those with calluses from a season of wearing ski boots
The Xero H-Trail adjusts easily, once you get the hang of it.
Credit: Travis Reddinger
A top performer in this category is the Bedrock Cairn Evo, which delivers excellent adjustability and customization in fit after a slight learning curve. Its three-way strap configuration allows for a secure fit that quickly and easily accommodates micro-adjustments on the go. The beefed-up Cairn Evo 3D is the same concept with a speed buckle on the outside, hook and webbing on the inside, and a double back heel strap. Xero H-Trail has a similar system to the Cairn, boasting four adjustment points over the instep and heel. The tension and angle of the toe strap can be changed along with the location of the instep strap and heel strap for a more comfortable fit.
The hook and loop system unique to the Cairns helps to provide a low profile and customized fit.
Credit: Jacob Clark
The Xero Z-Trail EV and the Chaco models follow the Bedrocks — both offer very different strap systems with multiple adjustment locations for a customized fit. However, the Bedrock system is ultimately the simplest and most intuitive. Most of the Teva models, the ECCO Yucatan, and the Keen Targhee III Open-Toe rank in the middle of the pack with conventional three-strap sporty designs. These models can provide a secure and customized fit, but not without considerable tinkering and adjustment. The closed-toe varieties we tested are boxy and incapable of achieving a precise fit.
The main ankle strap is one of two adjustable locations on the Teva Original Universal.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Versatility
With contemporary innovations and unique technology permeating the outdoor consumer market, sandals are becoming increasingly prevalent as multi-purpose footwear. A reliable pair should easily navigate rugged terrain or river crossings while stylishly strolling through town. Striking the right balance between performance, functionality, and utility is challenging. In this metric, we favorably scored models that transitioned seamlessly through various activities, from fishing and skateboarding to trailblazing and visiting the taco bar.
Overall, the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D is the most versatile model. It is sturdy and grippy while being lightweight, packable, and comfortable enough for even the longest days; seemingly, no situation is too much for it. Following closely are the Chaco models, such as the Z/2 Classic, and the burlier Bedrock model, the Cairn Evo, which are slightly slimmer and less aggressive than the 3D, but ultimately well-suited for various tasks. The ECCO Yucatan is the most versatile traditional sports model, offering exceptional comfort and support across any terrain or activity.
The Luna Oso Flaco Winged handles most situations with ease in a compact and simple style with some added feature not present in other minimalistic sandals.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Certain models, like the Teva Original Universal, may not be sporty enough for challenging approaches but are well-rounded enough to receive a respectable score. While practical for specific purposes, we awarded lower scores to minimalist models like the Keen Targhee III Open-Toe, Dream Pairs Adventurous, and Keen Newport H2 because they didn't instill complete confidence in very many activities. But, as with most things, much of this comes down to personal preference.
Multiple factors like comfort, traction, support, and style will impact a sandal's versatility.
Credit: Jacob Clark
How to Choose Sandals
You likely spend time researching and considering the best option when you buy a new pair of running shoes, so why wouldn't you do the same with your sandals? There are a few factors to consider when choosing this kind of footwear.
Intended Activities
Sandals serve varied purposes: supportive for hiking, secure for water activities like rafting, or stylish for casual summer wear. Some, like many in this review, excel in all three. Choose a sandal matching your lifestyle—water sandals need a secure fit and strong wet traction to stay on in currents. (Alternatively, you might like to check out our favorite water shoes for men for this purpose). Sandals for hiking generally need a comfortable footbed and adequate traction for rocky trails. And style is subjective, of course, so select a design that suits your tastes!
Sandal Design
Opt for a closed-toe sandal for hiking or water activities needing toe protection, though they may be heavier or less stylish. Prioritize comfort and choose sandals with high adjustability to customize fit, preventing hot spots and blisters. For more details on buying the right sandal for your needs, see our full Sandal Buying Advice article.
Closed-toe sandals are great for watersports but have an unjust reputation as “dad shoes.” Dad jokes aside, we favored the Newport H2 for its comfort, style, and functionality.
Conclusion
Our team has acquired and scrutinized the premier sandals in the industry for over ten years, and this review aims to highlight the nuanced strengths and weaknesses of the top-performing models available on the market today. Offering more breathability and less weight than typical hiking shoes, this footwear category can bridge the gap between performance and casual. We hope our findings assist you in finding the perfect pair for your summer, spring, fall, or even winter adventures.
Regardless of your specific needs, our seasoned team has inspected the best footwear currently on offer, helping to find a fit for every adventure and individual.
