The Best Sandals for Men

Our Picks of Men's Sandals

Best Overall Sandals

Bedrock Cairn Evo

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 comes from the Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole, which features an aggressive tread and provides significant traction in all environments for secure foot placement.

Weight (per pair)	16.23 oz (size 10)
Sole Material	Vibram XS Trek EVO
Upper Material	Premium polyester and nylon webbing
Footbed Material	EVA
Midsole Material	EVA

One downside of the Cairn Evo is its thinner footbed, which doesn't provide much support. The sole isn't as thick or supportive as the 3D Pro version, and it 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.

Best Adventure Sandals

Chaco Z/2 Classic

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 evenly distribute pressure, and the toe loop prevents excess foot slippage 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.”

Weight (per pair)	30.51 oz (size 10)
Sole Material	ChacoGrip Rubber
Upper Material	Polyester jaquard webbing
Footbed Material	LUVSEAT PU
Midsole Material	LUVSEAT PU

A downside of a durable, supportive sole is the added weight of the extra material. The Z/2 Classic is noticeably heavier than some of the other sandals we tested, but it didn't cause fatigue during long use. We also found the straps to be less comfortable when wet, but this was true for all the sandals we tested. Boasting a middle-of-the-road price tag, these sandals are great for everyday use and offer the traction and support needed for the trails. If you are seeking a lighter and minimalist option, make sure to check out the Xero H-Trail for your next trip.

Best Casual Sandals

Chaco Bodhi

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 keeps you feeling stable. “These simple-to-use sandals are surprisingly comfortable and perfect for the warmer months,” one tester raved.

Weight (per pair)	20.85 ox (size 10)
Sole Material	ChacoGrip Rubber
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 inspire much confidence in wet or challenging environments. With an array of color schemes, these mid-priced sandals offer 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.

Best Minimalist Sandal

Xero H-Trail

The Xero H-Trail is a great option for those seeking a lightweight minimalist sandal for their next adventure. The thin sole provides protection with plenty of dexterity and a 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.

Weight (per pair)	12.28 oz (size 10)
Sole Material	FeelTrue
Upper Material	Polyester webbing
Footbed Material	BareFoam
Midsole Material	TrailFoam

The H-Trail doesn't offer a supportive footbed like some of the thicker models, and it's better suited for the barefoot-style veteran. Don't let that scare you away, though; if a minimalist shoe appeals, these are worth considering. 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 take up space 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.

Best Toe Protection

Keen Newport H2

The Keen Newport H2 shines as a versatile performance sandal excelling in all 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.

Weight (per pair)	26.63 oz (size 9.5)
Sole Material	Rubber
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 holds its own against some of the burlier models in our lineup in terms of traction and stability.

Best Sandal for Recovery

Hoka Ora Recovery 3

On initial inspection of the Hoka Ora Recover 3, we were skeptical and questioned the necessity for a “recovery” sandal. Still, we understand Hoka has a method to their madness, and these sandals do not disappoint. Being one of the most comfortable sandals we have tested, you immediately notice the thick cushioning as your feet sink into the footbed. One tester noted, “I never really liked slides, but these are like walking on a supportive marshmallow and I love them.” A sculped footbed with a light arch provides support with a meta rocker profile for smooth forward motion. A single non-adjustable strap on the forefoot keeps them snug in place, and light tread on the sole gives some traction in wet environments.

Weight (per pair)	17.4 oz (size 11)
Sole Material	Injection molded EVA
Upper Material	Dual-density foam
Footbed Material	Injection molded sugarcane EVA
Midsole Material	Injection molded sugarcane EVA

The American Podiatric Medical Association approves the Ora Recovery for its contribution to foot health, but they are not an all-purpose sandal. Designed for recovery and comfort, they are also constructed from EVA foam, which can accelerate wear on rough or aggressive surfaces. They also have a lighter tread pattern and no heel securement, so they do not perform well in more technical environments. These sandals are perfect for post-workout recovery or use around the house, and they are more of a special-use design. If you require a sandal with a little more universal function, the Chaco Bodhi offers a comfortable footbed, securement straps, and a casual appearance for daily use.

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.

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.

Why Trust GearLab

This review was lead by Travis Reddinger, Nick Bruckbauer, and Jacob Clark.

Travis is an outdoor addict from Minnesota who prefers minimalist footwear during the warm months. He takes every opportunity to wear open footwear, whether for fishing, hiking, or taking breaks while 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.

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, minimalist barefoot-style options that balance 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.

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.

For an acceptably comfortable model with great casual performance that won't empty your wallet, the Dream Pairs Adventurous Summer is priced well below 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.

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 both initially and over extended periods of wear. The contact points between the arch, footbed, straps, buckles, and attachments are all crucial contributors to comfort. Ergonomic, well-designed pairs 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.

As mentioned above, the Hoka Ora Recovery 3 was a top pick for comfort, but the ECCO Yucatan is an exceptional performer. Noted 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 offers decent arch support. The Birkenstock Arizona also stood out for its soft, conforming footbed and cozy materials. The ease with which these slide on and off further enhances their everyday convenience.

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 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, which caused 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.

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 demonstrated confidence even in the sketchiest conditions. The Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D and Cairn Evo performed well in this category, which is unsurprising given their aggressive tread patterns and Vibram outsole. 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.

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 lower confidence in steep descents and the footbed's inability to mold to the terrain.

The Keen Newport H2 falls short of our top marks in this category, but it 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 it.

In general, a benefit of minimalist sandals is 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.

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, heavier sole that can withstand 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.

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 other minimalist models generally receive 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.

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

A top performer in this category is the Bedrock Cairn Evo, which delivers excellent adjustability and customization in fit, though it requires 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 system similar to the Cairn, with four adjustment points over the instep and heel. The tension and angle of the toe strap can be adjusted, along with the locations of the instep and heel straps, for a more comfortable fit.

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, customized fit, but only after considerable tinkering and adjustment. The closed-toe varieties we tested are boxy and cannot achieve a precise fit.

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, 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 on any terrain or during any activity.

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.

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). Hiking sandals 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.

Other Sandals to Consider

Chaco Z/1 Classic - This has the stiffest sole in the Chaco family. It stands out for its burly durability and great protection against sharp terrain. Combined with its sturdy straps, it will last much longer than most sandals in this review. That said, all that burlyness makes these some of the heaviest and least sensitive sandals we have tested.

Chaco Mega Z/Cloud - The Cloud is a largely successful effort by Chaco to bring more soft-footbed comfort to the notoriously firm and bombproof Chaco line. They feature a high arch and webbing that is softer than most of the Chaco line. If you love the Chaco design but want a little more cushion, these might be a good fit.

Teva Omnium 2 - This is a partially successful experiment by Teva to get into the closed-toe sandal world. Do they protect your toes? Yes. Are there some drawbacks to this? Yes. They require much more time to adjust; they don't dry as fast as other Teva models, and we just didn't find them the most comfortable.

Teva Universal Trail - This is a simple, lightweight, and well-priced sandal. It combines the classic Teva design with extra cushioning for rough terrain. The straps are burly. That said, all the cushioning makes these feel a little squishy and less precise.

Keen Arroyo II - This is one of the most “shoe-like” sandals we have tested. IN addition to the traditional Keen closed-toe, it has a more robust heel cup than most sandals we tested. Most people will want either hiking shoes or a more breathable sandal. That said, if you want the breathability of a sandal and almost all the protection of a more traditional shoe, this might be a great option.

Conclusion

Our team has evaluated and scrutinized the industry's premier sandals for over 10 years, and this review highlights the nuanced strengths and weaknesses of the top-performing models available today. Offering greater breathability and less weight than typical hiking shoes, this footwear category can bridge the gap between performance and casual wear. We hope our findings help you find 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.