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Sandals provide a breezy foot-feel during hot summer weather, while still protecting the bottom of your feet and providing some cushion. The best ones can hold up to all-day wear, and still blend in with your normal clothes.
The best all-around sandal for most men is the Birkenstock Arizona. This classic style provides substantial arch support and contouring, and the leather-and-cork construction keeps things casual yet classy. These sandals will last for years, justifying their higher price tag; just know that they will take a few wears to break in and reach full comfort.
The Teva Original Universal are best for those who don't want to spend a ton on their sandals, but still want footwear that feels more secure than flip flops or slides. Though they won't last as long as the Arizona, they are versatile enough to wear just about anywhere and water-friendly.
In the last decade, we have taken over 100 sandals on diverse adventures, from California beaches and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. If a sandal isn't what you're looking for, you might find that a pair of top-ranked men's flip flops or water shoes more aptly fits your preferences.
The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed is a classic design that has maintained a solid following for years. Utilizing a dual-strap leather upper with metal buckles, a cork footbed, and a rubber sole, this new version adds a layer of foam cushion to the insole for enhanced comfort. The supportive footbed conforms to your foot over time, creating an ideal sandal for all-day use. One tester noted, “These sandals are my go-to footwear in the summer and give me the necessary support all day.”
These sandals are built with high-quality materials and are made to last, but the higher price tag reflects the cost of materials and labor that goes into making a sandal that provides a like-custom fit. Speaking of custom fit, it will take some patience and a couple of wears to break these in. These are also not made to be worn in and around water. Regular submersion and exposure to wet environments can damage the oiled leather upper and the suede footbed. If you prefer a sandal you can wear for water-based activities, check out the Chaco Z/2 Classic, which has long been a go-to shoe for raft guides and river rats.
The Teva Original Universal is an instantly recognizable classic that earned a place in our lineup as a budget favorite. The style is simple yet functional, with velcro straps that allow infinite adjustment and a lightweight foam sole that provides a comfortable, cushy base to step on. We love that they pack flat and don't take up too much space in your bag, making them a perfect travel sandal. These come in a variety of colors that are updated seasonally, so you can choose fun patterns or simple solids to blend in with your everyday clothes. The strap configuration keeps your feet relatively secure thanks to a snug-fitting heel strap, so you don't have to worry about losing a shoe if you take a dip in the lake or river.
The Teva Originals are very lightweight, but the EVA foam sole has minimal contouring or arch support, so they may not be as comfortable for spending all day on your feet. They have a lightly textured footbed to increase stability, but it doesn't compare to the deep contouring of other sandals like the Birkenstock Arizona. However, the Tevas are water-friendly, and in our experience, the texture provides enough traction to keep our feet from slipping around when wet. Add that to the fact that this timeless style is something we feel confident pulling on for everything from lake days to backyard hangouts, and the Teva easily takes the top spot for a budget sandal.
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.” The most notable features of these sandals are their highly contoured arch support and extra-firm sole, which some people love and others hate. Either way, you'll definitely be supported in these shoes.
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 option, make sure to check out the Astral Webber, which is designed to keep your feet secure during water adventures and weighs about half as much as the Chacos.
Adventure sandals should be capable of navigating wet and dry conditions. Credit: Travis Reddinger
The Bedrock Cairn Evo quickly became a favorite for testers who prefer a minimalist feel in their footwear. These sandals have a unique 3-point strap structure that prevents shifting on the footbed, and 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, confidence comes from the Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole, which features an aggressive tread and delivers significant traction across all environments for secure foot placement. Despite their minimalist look, these perform great on the trails.
One downside of the Cairn Evo is its thinner footbed, which offers little support and feels less forgiving when it comes to shock absorption. The sandals take a little time to break in, and the textured footbed doesn't provide the same grip as more contoured 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, the Chaco Z/Cloud (no toe strap) is a comfortable choice for daily activities, while the Chaco Z/2 Classic offers an extra toe strap for added security when adventuring.
These sandals have more than enough traction and support for inclines and rocks. Credit: Travis Reddinger
If you want to feel the breeze between your toes, but don't necessarily want your toes to be that exposed, the Keen Newport H2 shines in scenarios when you want a little extra coverage and protection. 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.
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. Another solid option that offers a blend of breathability and closed-toe protection is the Hoka Hopara 2, which is more like a mesh shoe than a sandal.
The siped sole and multi directional lugs provide good traction on most surfaces but is diminished when wet. Credit: Travis Reddinger
On initial inspection of the Hoka Ora Recover 3, we were skeptical of the benefit of wearing big foam blocks on our feet, however, after a few days of wear, these sandals did not disappoint. They stand out as one of the most comfortable sandals we have tested. We immediately noticed the thick cushioning as our feet sank 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 sculpted footbed with a light arch provides support with a meta rocker profile that is slightly lifted at the toe and heel, facilitating a smooth forward motion, kind of like Hoka's running shoes. 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.
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 packs out more quickly than other materials like PU foam or cork, and wearing them on rough or aggressive surfaces can accelerate wear. These sandals are perfect for post-workout recovery or use around the house rather than everyday wear. If you require a sandal with a little more versatility, the Keen Uneek offers a comfortable (although not cloudlike) footbed, securement straps, and a casual look for daily use.
It's important to give your feet some cushion and support for recovery as well. Credit: Travis Reddinger
Product Comparison Table
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 comfort, support, and stability by walking identical routes for the same amount of time. We slid these shoes on after long days on our feet and made sure to spend long days in them. We tested traction for the hiking-oriented pairs on wet rocks, loose scree, and dirt paths. We also took these sandals kayaking, skateboarding, and to beach barbecues to get a good understanding of each pair's strengths and weaknesses in everyday life.
We wore these sandals for loungy early summer days. Credit: Travis Reddinger
We paired the Birkenstock Arizona sandals with casual workwear. Credit: Travis Reddinger
We compared tread and toe protection on our two closed-toe sandals - the Hoka Hopara and the Keen Newport. Credit: Travis Reddinger
We wore the Hoka Ora Recovery 3 sandals to take the dog on a quick neighborhood stroll. Credit: Travis Reddinger
One of the few sandals that provide the stability and protection we feel is necessary for archery. Credit: Travis Reddinger
The sandals in this lineup underwent testing across five performance metrics:
Comfort (40% of total weighted score)
Versatility & Style (25% weighting)
Adjustability (20% weighting)
Stability (10% weighting)
Traction (5% 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 to wear open footwear, whether for fishing, hiking, taking breaks while mountain biking, or on his way to work.
Jacob is a former climbing guide and route setter who also spends most of the year on the beaches of California's Central Coast, which allows him to wear open-toed shoes almost year-round. 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 some of the most popular sandals from leading brands, including a range of models to suit different lifestyles. Some options are oriented toward casually stylish everyday use, and others are more focused on providing a secure fit and traction for active adventures.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
When trying to get the best bang for your buck, it's important to consider how often you really wear sandals during the summer. Many of us only slide into a pair of sandals for weekend trips to the lake, or as a comfy shoe to wear around the house. In this case, it makes sense to want a more affordable option. For an acceptably comfortable model with great casual performance that won't empty your wallet, the Teva Universal Original is priced well below some of its high-end competitors. The Hoka Ora Recovery 3 is another pair that costs even less and is even more comfortable.
The Teva Original Universal has a lightweight and flexible footbed that is nearly flat for those with low arches. Credit: Travis Reddinger
While bargain hunting can be useful in some cases, we generally don't recommend it for footwear you use regularly. If you wear sandals every day the weather allows, investing in a buy-it-for-life pair of sandals will pay off in the long run in terms of comfort and durability. The Chaco Z/2 is the one we'd recommend in this case. These sandals feel invincible underfoot. Some people on our team have had theirs for years, and Chaco has a repair program that can help them last even longer.
Thick, secure straps and supportive footbed make the burly Chaco Z/2 sandal great for various uses. Credit: Travis Reddinger
Comfort
Sandals are not what we'd consider a performance shoe. They're what you slip into after a long day of confining your feet in sneakers or hiking boots, or when you don't feel like wearing shoes at all. Although you can find models capable of withstanding tough conditions, we didn't want to compromise the comfortable, easygoing essence of sandals solely for performance, and instead considered models generally suited to casual, laid-back use. We carefully observed how our feet interacted with the shoes, both initially and over extended wear. The contact points between the arch, footbed, straps, buckles, and attachments are all crucial contributors to comfort.
We started on day one; after unboxing, we determined if each sandal required any break-in period before extensive use. After a few weeks of use, we noted if any of those hotspots remained and if new weaknesses emerged. Many sandals that feel stiff and too firm soften up over time and become more comfortable as they form to your unique foot shape. On the flip side, many sandals that feel cushy and comfy right out of the box have a tendency to lose their spring more quickly, leaving you with dense, packed-out foam that doesn't offer much support.
Footbed Materials
Alongside footbed contouring, the material used in a sandal's footbed is one of the biggest predictors of underfoot comfort. The two most common types are EVA foam and Polyeurethane (PU) foam. Sandals made with EVA foam will feel like you're walking on clouds… for the first few weeks, that is. EVA foam compresses easily and loses its spring; it “packs out” after ~1 year of consistent wear. PU foam is denser and less cushy, but it offers better durability and all-day comfort. It resists compression, so it won't lose its shape over time, but it also won't adapt to your feet, so make sure the shape feels good from the start. The last insole material we will talk about is cork. Cork footbeds are notoriously stiff and can even be uncomfortable for the first few wears, but this natural material molds to your foot over time, creating a unique-to-you footbed shape that cradles your foot in all the right places. If you can make it through the break-in period, cork footbeds offer the best long-term comfort.
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 Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed is well known for its soft, conforming footbed and custom-like fit. Its ease of sliding on and off further enhances everyday convenience. The cork footbed can feel overly stiff at first, but the addition of a thin latex foam lining helps ease the break-in period as the cork compresses a bit. The Hoka Ora Recovery 3 is a top pick for comfort, stacked with a healthy serving of EVA foam that will keep tired feet happy, though you'll likely need to replace these yearly to keep that clouds-on-your-feet feeling. The Ecco Offroad is an exceptional performer. It has a supportive yet cushioned sole construction that delivers in terms of comfort. Although individuals with flat feet may need to explore other options, this model offers decent contoured arch support.
The Birkenstock Arizona sandals are made with materials that just get better over time. We hustled through the break-in period to get the reward of having custom-tailored footwear. Credit: Travis Reddinger
The Ecco Offroad is built for stability and comfort on every terrain. 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, which caused chafing and bleeding until everything was broken in.
The Teva Terra Fi 5 sandals were comfortable... after we broke them in. We'd recommend wearing these for short periods at first. Hold off on all-day wear until you know the shape works for you. Credit: Travis Reddinger
The Astral Webber is a water-focused sandal with a soft, comfy foam footbed. It earned one of the lowest scores in our lineup because 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. Many of the barefoot models in our lineup also scored lower for comfort, simply because they place very little material between you and the ground.
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
Versatility & Style
Depending on what your day looks like, you may want to wear sandals for strolls in the park, running errands around town, heading to the beach to check out the tide pools, or even light trail use and stream crossings. If it can do all of the above, great, and if they are also stylish enough to wear to a neighborhood BBQ at the end of the day, then you've found yourself a winner. Striking the right balance between performance, functionality, and style is challenging. Models that scored highest on this metric transitioned seamlessly across a range of activities, from fishing and skateboarding to trailblazing and visiting the taco bar.
The Keen Uneek is one of the most versatile models on the list. This town-to-trail favorite is capable on land and water, and we used it for walking around the city, hiking light trails, and fishing. This sandal is notably more fashionable than many others on the list, making it a preferred option for travel and casual outings. Those who prefer not to expose the toes will also appreciate the full-coverage design. The Chaco Z/2 Classic is a great all-day wear that transitions well from hiking trails to brewery scenes. We've even taken ours up a few 14'ers.
The Chaco Z/Cloud 2 is supportive and comfortable for daily activities. Credit: Travis Reddinger
On the flip side, the Reef Ojai Two Bar is a sandal made for casual town life. The easy on-and-off makes it a convenient choice to slip on when running errands or grabbing a coffee, while the monotone suede upper and matching footbed lend a sleek, understated look to a casual outfit.
Even scuffed up after a few months of wear, the Reef Ojai still looks more put together than many of the active-focused sandals we tested. Credit: Zach Lovell
Certain models, like the Teva Original Universal, have a classic style that fits in anywhere, but may not be sporty enough for more demanding hikes or river crossings. However, it still received a respectable score due to its overall well-roundedness. We awarded lower scores to activity-specific models and minimalist shoes, such as the Dream Pairs Adventurous and Bedrock Cairn Evo, because we felt they were better suited to niche uses than to daily wear.
Multiple factors like comfort, traction, support, and style will impact a sandal's versatility. Credit: Jacob Clark
Adjustability
We all have slightly different feet, some narrow, some wide, some high volume, some low. Adjustability and fit are important factors that can contribute to overall comfort, and can give you a better idea of whether a sandal will be the right choice for you. 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. Sandals with no adjustment points inevitably scored lower, but we still considered other features that helped the shoe stay on the foot, such as sizing and width availability, as well as raised edges around the footbed.
We first looked at which strap configuration provided the most utility, and ultimately found that this comes down to personal preference. T-strap, Z-strap, double bar, take your pick. More important than the configuration itself is the number of adjustments on those straps, which can impact the fit quite a bit. 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 hiking boots.
The simple and effective adjustment systems on the Cairn Evo. Credit: Travis Reddinger
The Z/Cloud's criss-crossed webbing gives a secure fit. Credit: Travis Reddinger
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 Chaco Z/2 Classic has a continuous webbing system that allows for infinite adjustment, although it can take a bit of elbow grease to pull the straps through the midsole to loosen or tighten a specific area. The only part of the Z/2 that is not adjustable is the heel strap. The Teva Terra Fi 5 has three different adjustment points around the toe, mid-foot, and heel, and has additional contouring around the heel that helps lock your foot in place. We were able to achieve a snug strap fit with all of these sandals thanks to their superior adjustability.
The Terra Fi 5 features Teva's signature strap configuration, which is easy and intuitive to use. Credit: Travis Reddinger
The Teva Original Universal and the Ecco Offroad rank in the middle of the pack with conventional, sporty three-strap 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.
The Z-Trail gives you about as much breathability as is possible. Credit: Jacob Clark
Stability
Even if you aren't going to wear your sandals to scale mountain peaks, stability is a crucial factor for any footwear. A sandal that lacks stability might as well be a flip flop. We closely observed how balanced, firm, and secure our feet felt while wearing the sandals in this lineup on various terrains like pebble beaches, grassy slanted ridges at the park, and when climbing down river banks to float the river on an inner tube. Rigid (but not cumbersome) midsoles, secure straps, and superior footbed contouring were the primary contributors to stability.
The most notable models in this category are the Keen Newport H2, Ecco Offroad, and Hoka Hopara 2. Unsurprisingly, since these models are all mostly enclosed. These sandals feature a stiffer, heavier sole that can withstand harsh conditions and provide significant arch support. The fully enclosed Newport H2 and Hopara offer a sense of security regardless of the terrain, and offer toe protection against roots and rocks, or sidewalk curbs. Similarly, the Offroad wraps snugly around large swathes of the foot, hugging it securely.
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, Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed, and Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed all provide decent stability, albeit with significantly different designs. The deeply contoured footbed design of the Birkenstock and Chusionaire has raised edges that keep your foot from sliding around, and keep small pebbles and dirt from getting in. The Chaco has a highly structured footbed that raises your foot up off the ground and extends beyond the toes to provide a roomy platform to stand on. It doesn't have the raised edges of the other models, but our feet didn't budge here.
The molded footbed is contoured to provide anatomical support. Credit: Travis Reddinger
Unsurprisingly, the Teva Original Universal and other minimalist models generally receive lower scores in this metric. These models intentionally sacrifice stability for a lightweight design with enhanced groundfeel.
The Teva Universal sandals aren't the most stable of the bunch, but they are light and comfortable when we want to kick our feet up on the fishing boat. Credit: Travis Reddinger
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, especially hiking-oriented ones. These top offerings provide excellent traction and are versatile and functional in various situations, from slippery river rocks and boat decks to dirt paths around the lake.
We tested traction on mossy creekbeds, loose, dusty trails, and on urban surfaces such as poolside concrete and worn stone steps. We can also report on how well each shoe kept our feet on the ground when being pulled by an energetic pup. The Bedrock Cairn Evo performed well in this category, which is unsurprising given its aggressive tread patterns and Vibram outsole. Our feet felt secure and locked in, no matter what conditions or surfaces we faced. The Hoka Hopara 2 also impressed in this category, with a rubber sole and a more aggressive tread than most in the lineup.
The Cairn Evo received top marks for traction with its impressive Vibram sole. Credit: Travis Reddinger
Stiff-soled models like the Ecco Offroad 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.
The Ecco Offroad 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 it still stands out with its outsole reminiscent of winter-vehicle tires and optimized for wet conditions. It fared slightly worse in loose, dry gravel.
Varying tread pattern and side grip provide traction and stability on any surface you encounter. Credit: Travis Reddinger
The Reef Ojai Two Bar NEW, Hoka Ora Recovery 3, and Oofos Ooahh Slide all fell short in this metric. These shoes are meant for the most casual of rest days, and are best suited for mellow activities like dog walks and grocery runs.
These cushioned slides have a decent tread pattern providing stability in wet environments. Credit: Travis Reddinger
Soft cushion and rocker profile on the Oofos Ooahh Slide are a comfortable combination for casual use. Credit: Travis Reddinger
How to Choose Sandals
You shouldn't look for the same thing in a sandal as you would in a running shoe, but what exactly should you look for? We'll help you narrow down your options with a few questions. If you want to go deeper, check out our sandal buying advice article.
Intended Activities
Depending on who you are, sandals serve varied purposes. They translate well into relaxed casual days, but can also be supportive for hiking, secure for water activities like rafting, or stylish for casual summer wear. To know which pair will best suit your lifestyle, there are three main questions you can ask yourself:
Can I wear them in water? If you typically only pull on sandals when you're headed to the waterside, whether that's a lake, ocean, or pool, you'll want to make sure your sandals are made of materials that can handle being fully submerged and will float (just in case you lose a shoe). If you like to wear your sandals around town and at social events, you can forgo waterproofing and look for a polished leather or suede finish that will pair well with your everyday clothes.
Easy on and off? If you do a lot of rafting or river paddleboarding, you want your shoes to stay on your feet and resist the relentless tug of the current if you take an unexpected dunk. Water sandals need a secure fit and strong wet traction to stay on in currents. Look for sandals with a heel strap and secure webbing with high adjustability. Alternatively, you might like to check out our favorite water shoes for men for this purpose. If you want a pair of sandals you can slip on and off around the house, slides will be your best friend. Slides will sometimes have a small level of adjustability, but even then, the fit is intended to be loose and relaxed for ultimate convenience.
How much support do I need? If you plan to wear your sandals all day long, zip around town, or be on your feet all day at work, you'll want to prioritize good arch support and a contoured footbed. If you plan to hike in your sandals, this is just as important, and you may want to consider a model with toe protection and more aggressive tread on the outsole. If you just need something to slip on to walk down the path to the lake, a basic EVA foam sole will be enough.
Closed-toe models offer significant extra protection, especially underwater, where it can be hard to see sharp obstacles. Credit: Maggie Nichols
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.
