We hiked, climbed, and trekked our way through thousands of miles to test 20+ pairs of hiking sandals. From summiting 14ers in Colorado to thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, the CleverHiker team has put these sandals through serious punishment to find the best of the best. We looked at comfort, traction, durability, and versatility from brands like Bedrock, Chaco, Teva, and more. If you’re looking for top-quality hiking sandals for your next adventure, chances are you’ll find them on this guide.
We also have a list of the best hiking sandals for women. If the trails you’re exploring demand full-foot protection, our analysts compare dozens of closed-toe options in our guides to the top trail runners (women’s / men’s), hiking shoes (women’s / men’s), and hiking boots (women’s / men’s).
Quick Picks for Men’s Hiking Sandals
Check out our top hiking sandals here, or keep trekking and explore our detailed reviews below.
Best Men’s Hiking Sandals Overall: Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro ($115)
Stable and Durable Hiking Sandals: Chaco Z/1 Classic ($105)
Highly Adjustable Trail Sandals: Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Hiking Sandal ($110)
Best Minimal Hiking Sandals: Luna Mono Winged ($110)
Best Closed-Toe Hiking Sandals: KEEN Newport H2 ($130)
Best Budget Hiking Sandals: Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV ($80)
Best for Casual Adventures: Astral Webber ($110)
What’s new
We’ve been busy hiking in both fresh releases and long-time favorites. Hundreds of miles later, here’s what’s noteworthy:
- Say hello to our new favorite, the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro. These versatile sandals take the top spot for an outstanding all-around performance on (and off) trail.
- The ultralight and highly adjustable Luna Mono Winged make the cut as an excellent trail and water sandal for minimalists.
- We added the Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Hiking Sandals as a durable, highly adjustable, and adventure-ready pair of sandals.
- We welcome the Astral Webber to the list as a solid option for casual hikes and water-centric summer fun.
Men’s Hiking Sandals Overall Testing Scores
Men’s Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro
Best Men’s Hiking Sandals Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 4.9/5.0
Price: $125
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.4 oz.
Adjustment Points: 3
Closure Mechanism: Bar buckle (top), hooks (top, ankle)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Excellent traction
- Highly adjustable
- Durable
- Flexible
- Replaceable soles
Cons
- Zero-drop not as supportive as others
- Straps between toes take getting used to
- Expensive
The Bedrock Cairn 3D Pros take our top spot on our men’s sandals list. These minimalist, ultralight sandals are perfect for almost any summer adventure, from day hikes to thru-hikes and fun on the river to relaxing on a deck. If you want sandals with impressive durability and an awesomely adjustable strap system, you’ll love the Cairn 3D Pros – they’re as comfy as they are stylish.
When it comes to adjustability, this model wins. These things can be dialed in for nearly any foot shape, with the ability to tweak the fit at the heels and across the top of the foot. We love the unique hook system for outstanding customizability. Once it’s locked in, we felt comfortable and confident on almost any terrain.
Comfort is key when it comes to sandals, and the ergonomic footbed is flexible to keep our natural gait, but durable enough to tackle rough terrain. The burly lug pattern is reliable on slippery, steep, and uneven surfaces, and it’s durable across rough trail miles.
These are long-lasting sandals, too. We racked up over 1,000 miles on our Cairns, from tubing on the river to summiting peaks to daily wear. They land among the most versatile, longest-lasting sandals we’ve tested.
The downside of the Cairn 3Ds boils down to the toe strap, thinner midsole, and price. Though the nylon toe strap is very soft, having material between the can take some getting used to. And, these sandals are zero-drop, which may not work if you need or want better foot or arch support. They’re also some of the spendiest sandals we’ve tested – although we think they’re worth the investment for such impressive quality and comfort.
At the end of the day, though, we almost always reach for the Cairn EVO 3Ds before any other sandal. They are comfy, simple, and fun minimalist sandals that come in lots of bright, playful colors. For folks who want lightweight adjustable summer footwear for adventures outside, these earn top marks in every category, and earn our top spot for all the right reasons.
More: Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Review
Men’s Chaco Z/1 Classic
Stable & Durable Sandals
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $105
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 13.8 oz.
Adjustment Points: 3
Closure Mechanism: Single bar buckle
Pros
- Very durable
- Comfortable
- Highly adjustable
- Supportive
- Wide and stable
- Excellent traction
- Lots of colors & patterns
Cons
- Heavier / bulkier than others
- Small break-in period
- Straps can cause blisters when wet
- Not as adjustable when dirty
If you’re looking for the ultimate hiking sandals, we recommend the Chaco Z/1 Classic. Editor Ian Krammer hiked dozens of Colorado’s tallest peaks in the Classics with hundreds of miles on his pairs over the years – not to mention tens of thousands of feet of vert – on some of the toughest terrain in the Rockies.
These sandals check every box we want in open-toe hiking footwear: they’re comfortable, easy to adjust, and impressively supportive. The Z/1s are also ultra durable. In our experience, most pairs last multiple seasons, and we’ve regularly gotten over a thousand miles before replacing them.
Plus, there’s different versions depending on your preferences. The Z/2s have a toe loop for additional control and security. The Z/Clouds are another great choice, featuring a softer and more pliable sole. Go with the Z/Clouds if you prefer a springier landing with each step. Or, stick to the Z/1s if you want to save a bit of weight and don’t mind more structure.
You’ll still get the same durability and support from all models, and the easy-adjust polyester webbing accommodates any foot shape or size. Plus, Chacos come in a kaleidoscope of colorways, funky designs, and fun patterns to elevate your style in the backcountry – or on your patio.
Our main complaint about Chacos is their weight. At nearly a pound per shoe, these sandals are some of the heaviest we tested. But, they’re among the most durable options anywhere, so you won’t have to purchase another pair for years.
Many types of hikers swear by Chacos, from day hikers to minimalist fast packers to veteran thru-hikers. They could easily become your new favorites as well.
More: Chaco Z/1 Classic Review
Men’s Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Hiking Sandal
Highly Adjustable Trail Sandals
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $110
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 10 oz.
Adjustment Points: 3
Closure Mechanism: Velcro (Toes, ankle, heel)
Pros
- Affordable
- Cushy Soles
- Adjustable hook-and-loop straps
- Many colorways
- Easy to put on / take off
- Dry quickly
- Reliable traction
- Supportive
Cons
- Less durable outsoles than others
- Run a bit long (go down a half size)
- On the bulky / heavy side
The affordable and über comfy Teva Terra Fi 5 are an outstanding value for warm-weather fun. These sandals are a steal for their quality, comfort, and adjustability.
Whether you’re playing on the river or day hiking on established trails, the Terra Fi 5 are up to the task. Their sturdy hook-and-loop patches make it easy to dial in the perfect fit at the toes, top of foot, and at the heels. On water or land, these sandals will stay in place – but are still easy to put on and take off.
These Tevas lead the pack for comfort thanks to cushy midsoles that balance stability and support. They offer a forgiving ride over miles of rough trail, and the soft straps not only feel great against the skin, but dry fast. Ergonomic insoles and a burly lug pattern makes them a good choice for stability and traction on tough trails and long days in and out of the water.
The biggest con of the Terra Fi 5 is that they are a bit bulky and heavy compared to others on our list. During testing, we find they can feel like overkill on shorter adventures and lake days where a lighter sandal is preferable. We also find they run a bit long, so consider trying them on ahead of time – our analysts went down by half a size.
Those looking for affordable and versatile summer footwear can’t go wrong with the Terra Fi 5, though. If you’re looking for the best of the best for adjustability, these fun, comfy sandals are for you.
More: Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Hiking Sandal Review
Men’s Luna Mono Winged Edition
Best Minimal Hiking Sandals
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $110
Weight (Pair): 11.8 oz.
Adjustment Points: 3
Closure Mechanism: Single bar buckle
Pros
- Ultralight
- Less expensive
- Comfortable
- Adjustable
- Stable soles
- Easy on / off
Cons
- Zero-drop sandals not for everyone
- Not as durable as some
- Side-rubber and toe bar can rub
- Adjustments can be a bit tedious
The Luna Mono Winged Edition are ultralight sandals that hit the sweet spot for stability, comfort, and durability. Their clever design and exemplary construction make them a stellar option for minimalist hikers who want a do-it-all sandal for hiking, water crossings, and lounging at camp.
Catering to distance backpackers, casual dayhikers, and lightweight aficionados, this model has a similar design and excellent adjustability to the Bedrock Cairns, but for a lower price. They also offer decent durability and a barefoot feel like the Xero Z-Trails but with more stability.
We’re big fans of the simple, adjustable design of the Winged Edition’s. A single strap slides across the top of the foot along the toe strap to adjust tension and tightness and stays put once it’s positioned. You can further fine-tune these sandals by feeding the straps through the hubs, or “wings” on the sides.
The Monos fall a bit short when it comes to universality and durability, though. They are zero-drop and fairly thin, so they might not work for everyone’s foot shape, gait, or hiking style. Our testing also finds that the strap between the toes and the bulky wing hubs might rub you the wrong way.
We also find the straps are a bit tedious to adjust – it’s a simple system, but it takes a more focus and time than other models for dialing in the fit on the go. The outsoles are pliable and sticky, but they were the first element to wear out.
That said, Luna is at the top of their game with the Winged Editions as minimalist, lightweight, and comfy sandals. For ultralight hikers and the minimalist-minded, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-made or more affordable sandal.
More: Luna Mono Winged Edition Review
Men’s KEEN Newport H2
Best Closed-Toe Hiking Sandals
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $130
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 12.3 oz.
Adjustment Points: 1
Closure Mechanism: Quick-toggle bungee lace (ankle)
Pros
- Protective toe cap
- Fairly durable
- Comfortable & soft uppers
- Good traction on wet surfaces
- One-step adjustment
- Supportive
- Easy & fast on / off
Cons
- Bulky / heavier than others
- Expensive
- Less breathable than other sandals
- Debris can get stuck in slots
- Not as stylish as some
If your biggest hangup about hiking in sandals is stubbed toes, the KEEN Newport H2‘s are the answer. They have a burly rubber toe cap and beefy polyester uppers that will save your digits from sharp underbrush, jagged rocks, and pokey roots while keeping your feet ventilated.
Because of their wide toe cap and sturdy construction, the Newports feel more like a hiking shoe masquerading as a sandal. Like hiking shoes, they offer plenty of arch support, a bungee lacing system for fast on / off, and excellent tread. But, like sandals, this model features fast-drying webbing and plenty of ventilation to let your dogs breathe.
KEEN had comfort in mind when they built the Newports. We find they’re a snug and pleasant fit from the first try, and the soft interior and pliable insoles are the cherry on top. The H2’s are cozy enough for all-day wear, making them a great choice for a hike, a day on the lake, or running errands around town.
The downside? These sandals are bulkier and heavier than others on our list. There’s a lot of material, too, which can lead to sweaty feet on dry, hot days, and debris like gravel and sand can get stuck in the slots. However, when it comes to water-centric adventures, the Newport H2s shine. We’ve taken them on plenty of stand-up paddle boarding and tubing adventures.
They’re also not the most sleek sandals out there, but that’s never stopped us from kicking it on a patio after a day on the river. The Newports are a practical pick for top-tier protection for your toes and will last for years. If you’re a first-time sandal hiker, want a bit more protection on trail, or want a stable, supportive, and comfy sandal, the Newport H2s are the way to go.
More: KEEN Newport H2 Review
Men’s Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV
Best Budget Hiking Sandals
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $80
Weight (Pair): 10.8 oz.
Adjustment Points: 2
Closure Mechanism: Velcro (heel), Single bar buckle (ankle)
Pros
- Ultralight
- Affordable
- Ergonomic
- Good traction
- Highly adjustable
- Simple design
Cons
- Not as durable as others
- Zero-drop shoes aren't for everyone
- A bit tedious to put on and take off
The Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV Sandals are some of our favorite minimalist sandals. These things are slim and ultralight, but they punch well above their class when it comes to comfort and performance.
If you want ultralight footwear, look no further than the Z-Trails – they’re the lightest sandals on this list. At only 10.8 ounces for the pair, the you won’t find more airy or pliable sandals. Hikers who love to free their feet – especially crossing water, or milling around camp – will love these lightweight sandals.
We love the super-adjustable Velcro straps on top of the foot and around the heel to get a custom fit, so they work for almost any foot shape or size. The soles are flexible, but also grippy and comfortable on a variety of terrains.
But zero-drop sandals like these may not for everyone. They don’t have great arch support (or much support at all) compared to other sandals on this list. And, while they’re more durable than other ultralight sandals, they don’t hold a candle to heavier-duty options like the Teva Terra Fi 5s or Chaco Z/1s.
They’re a bit of a task to put on and take off. We have to hold onto the sandals to slide them on and off, requiring more energy than others.We find these sandals need a bit of an adjustment every time we wear them, so you’ll need to pay more attention to dial in the straps. That said, they stay in place once you dial in the fit.
The Z-Trails are for minimal footwear lovers, barefoot shoe fans, and those who want the absolute least amount of shoe on their feet without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re walking the dog or lounging near your tent, these sandals are as light, flexible, and ergonomic as they come.
More: Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV
Men’s Astral Webber
Best for Casual Adventures
CleverHiker Rating: 3.8/5.0
Price: $110
Weight (Pair): 1 lb.
Adjustment Points: 2
Closure Mechanism: Double bar buckle
Pros
- Comfy straps
- Durable materials
- Lightweight
- Fabric dries fast
- Easy on / off
- Good traction
Cons
- Unique fit doesn't work for all foot shapes
- Giant buckles not very adjustable
- Rounded edges of soles can feel unstable
- Tough to remove debris
If your next hike is on cruiser trails or involves lots of water crossings, the Astral Webbers are an excellent choice. Whether you’re tackling a short summer stroll with the family with lots of streams or rafting the Colorado River, the Astrals are lightweight, comfy, and perfect for long days with wet feet.
Astral got its start building PFDs and applied the same lightweight, ultra-durable tech to its sandals. At only one pound for the pair, Webbers are light, but the construction is still durable: both the webbing uppers and rubber soles have lasted us for 2 full seasons. Their grippy traction and super cozy fit will keep you stylish and moving all day.
We’re impressed with how comfortable the Webbers are from the first try. The webbing and liner are soft, and they only get more pliable over time, making them easy to slip on and slide off. The soles are a bit stiff at first, but after a few miles of breaking in, they offer a refreshing balance of flexibility and cushion.
Plus, they’re versatile enough to translate from mellow days on the water to any patio, making them a solid fit for relaxing summer days and shorter mileage.
Our issue with the Webbers comes down to the fit. Their footbed is narrow and they don’t come in wide sizing, so those with larger feet will want to look elsewhere. The heel strap is a bit oversized and isn’t adjustable, leading to occasional heel lift. The giant buckles – which we love for their aesthetic – are not the most adjustable locking system. There’s only a bit of leeway to tighten the sandals across the top of the foot.
The rounded edges of the outsole is another downside. They can feel a bit tippy and unstable on tough terrain, so we don’t recommend these for longer distances or use beyond established trails. The material can occasionally trap debris like sand and stones, too, that can be a bit challenging to remove.
But we’ve hiked, ran, jumped, and swam in the Webbers all summer long. For mellow days on the water, the Webbers deliver a comfy, versatile ride. We recommend them for your next lake day, river adventure, or hike with lots of creeks and streams.
More: Astral Webber Review
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight (Pair) | Comfort | Traction | Stability | Adjustability | Durability | Versatility | 0 |
Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro View at REI View at Bedrock 
|
$125 | 1 lb. 1.4 oz. | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 1 |
Chaco Z/1 Classic View at REI View at Amazon
|
$105 | 1 lb. 13.8 oz. | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 2 |
Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal Hiking Sandal View at REI View at Amazon
|
$110 | 1 lb. 10 oz. | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 3 |
Luna Mono Winged Edition View at Amazon View at Luna |
$110 | 11.8 oz. | 4.3 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.7 | 4 |
KEEN Newport H2 View at REI View at Amazon |
$130 | 1 lb. 12.3 oz. | 4.5 | 3.8 | 4.7 | 4.0 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 5 |
Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$80 | 10.8 oz. | 4.0 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 3.5 | 4.4 | 6 |
Astral Webber View at REI View at Amazon |
$110 | 1 lb. | 3.8 | 3.5 | 3.4 | 3.0 | 4.2 | 3.8 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
Whether our team was sweating it out on summer hikes or freezing our toes off during early morning adventures, we clocked serious miles to find which sandals are worth your trust – and your feet. For each pair, we looked at comfort, traction, stability, adjustability, durability, and versatility. We racked up a minimum of 50 miles in newer pairs, but typically hundreds or thousands of miles, to suss out top performers for hiking and beyond.
COMFORT
To evaluate comfort, we assessed the cushioning of the insole and midsole to understand shock absorption and long-distance support. We considered flexibility to see if the sandal allows natural movement on different terrain.
Top performers are built with strong but breathable and soft materials. In our experience, straps were the biggest cause of irritation, and winners for this metric did not cause significant hot spots or blisters. We considered how well sandals fit on different foot shapes and sizes. Finally, we look at how well the footbed supports the arch, the way the sandals contour to the foot, and how they promote alignment.
TRACTION
Traction is what keeps your feet steady on rough or slippery trails. That’s why we tested every pair of sandals in a full spectrum of weather conditions, from hot and dry to wet and cold. We watched how the lug pattern and lug depth held up on rough terrain like rocky trails, wet log bridges, and loose gravel to understand how the tread operates on different surfaces.
We performed controlled slips on inclines and declines, both wet and dry, to see how effectively the outsole bites the ground – or doesn’t. We also take into account how the rubber compound affects the shoes’ tackiness in different places.
STABILITY
For stability, we look for sandals with prominent arch support and deep heel cups, which are critical for maintaining balance. We hiked on varied terrain including rocky paths and off-camber, root-filled trails to see how well sandals keep our footing secure and prevent possible ankle rolling.
To assess lateral stability, we perform side-to-side movements and quick direction changes, watching for any wobbling or slipping within the sandal. The rigidity of the sole is tested by applying pressure on the edges to ensure it provides a strong platform without excessive flexing. We conduct incline and decline tests – hiking up grades as steep as 45° – to see how well the sandals handle uphills and downhills without sliding forward or backward.
ADJUSTABILITY
Adjustability boils down to the design of the straps and buckles. The winners for this metric have nuanced adjustment systems at the toes, midfoot, and heel to achieve the most secure, snug fit. To test the customizability of the sandals, we repeatedly pulled and prodded the straps and fastenings and evaluated how long until the straps loosened.
We look for sandals that come in a range of sizes – including widths – so they’re adjustable for different foot shapes and sizes. We considered the ease of putting the sandals on and taking them off to understand how convenient and fast they are for putting on and taking off.
DURABILITY
Durability comes down to the materials used. We scrutinized the strength of the soles, the build of the straps, and the integrity of the stitching. We perform rough abrasion tests on the outsoles by hiking for hours over rough and rocky terrains over many days and weeks to see how well the sandals withstand wear and tear. We keep a close counter of the mileage accumulated on each sandal.
We test construction quality by bending and twisting sandals to find weak points. Each pair is soaked, swam in, and exposed to heat and sunlight for days on end to assess dry time and UV resistance. Multi-day hikes helped us evaluate long-term durability across muddy, wet, dusty, and dry conditions.
VERSATILITY
Some sandals are better for specific activities than others. We measure versatility by taking models on long, challenging trails from local routes to the high mountains to tough traveling days so we understand where they perform the best. From barbecues to concerts, and frontcountry to backcountry, we adventured in these sandals all summer long.
We also considered their reliability in and out of the water to evaluate different pairs’ packability and look at how well they travel in a suitcase or backpack. And, versatility is also about style, so we took into account their aesthetics for transitions from dirty trails to distillery patios.
Why Trust CleverHiker
We’ve trekked thousands of miles in sandals looking for the best of the best – through scorching deserts, roaring rivers, and the tallest peaks in the country. Editor Ian Krammer spent hundreds of days exploring Colorado’s wildest terrain in different models, learning first-hand how each pair performs on tough trails. He’s even summited 21 of the state’s 14,000-foot peaks in them.
With over a decade of testing experience under his belt, Ian knows what makes a pair of sandals exceptional. His deep field knowledge and attention to detail help us narrow down the most supportive, durable, and trail-ready models out there. Thanks to our hands-on testing in every condition, we’re confident that our top picks will go the distance – so your feet can, too.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
When it comes to value, we look beyond the price tag for sandals that offer outstanding all-around performance. We include budget-friendly picks in this metric, but we also take into account durability, versatility, comfort, and overall performance to determine an outstanding value.
Our most budget-friendly sandals are the Xero Z-Trail EV. At $80 for a pair, these no-frills sandals are highly adjustable, super light, and offer outstanding ground feel. These are a great bang for your buck if you’re looking for a quick-drying design, top-tier groundfeel, and excellent versatility for summers along the river and kicking it at the local coffee shop.
We also love the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pros. These things are a bit pricier than others, but they are worth every penny for their all-around performance when it comes to durability, adjustability, stability, and more. The molded footbed and soft straps make for one of the most comfy and customizable fits of any model, and they feel agile and fast from flats to steep ascents.
The Chaco’s Z/1 Classic and Z/Cloud sandals are another great deal. These sandals are long lasting, have stellar traction, and are comfy for hours of activity once broken in. Built with super grippy outsoles and adjustable webbing straps, Chacos are 4WD sandals for taking on rough terrain – or racing through the airport.
COMFORT
We have a tie for comfort between the Chaco Z/1 Classic and the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro. These are very different models. Chacos are thick, maximalist, cushy, and have traditional over-the toe webbing. Bedrocks are zero-drop, much thinner and lighter, and feature a between-the-toe design.
However, both pairs earn nearly perfect scores for comfort from our team. They are flexible through the sole, offer ergonomic arch support and cushioning, and have adjustable and secure straps. We’ve got the miles to show for it, too. Senior Gear Analyst Casey Handley hiked the Appalachian Trail and the Arizona Trail in Chaco Z/1s. Editor Ian Krammer summited more than 50 Colorado peaks over 13,000’ in Bedrocks, and his feet were as fresh as day one.
A close second are the Teva Terra-Fi 5. These sandals are a dream right out of the box, especially for folks who want an easy and fast adjustment system, good support, and a smooth ride on any terrain. Teraa Fi 5’s are fast-drying and supportive as well. We’ve worn these for days at a time with no blisters or issues with hot spots.
TRACTION
Our top picks for traction are the Chaco Z/1 Classic, Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro, and the Teva Terra Fi 5. All of these sandals have quality outsoles made with different rubber blends that provide gold-standard traction on most surfaces including slick, dry, uneven and soft trails. so they’re perfect for hiking in most places. These sandals lead the pack for their effective tread patterns, multi-directional lugs, and great durability that kept us feeling safe on and off route.
STABILITY
The Chaco Z/1 Classic is one of the most stable sandals we’ve tested thanks to their cushy but firm midsoles. These sandals provide excellent arch support and shock absorption. Combined with adjustable webbing, Chacos offer a custom fit that keeps our feet locked in and prevents unwanted movement.
A close runner-up, the Teva Terra Fi 5’s robust construction makes them feel durable and stable on long hikes. Like Chacos, these offer plenty of support and security for cruising over roots, rocks, and rough trails.
We also highly recommend the KEEN Newport H2 for their slightly flexible footbed that feels strong and reliable on almost any surface. A wide EVA midsole offers good cushioning and shock absorption, essential for stability on rocky trails. Closed-toe construction and shallower lugs further round out their sturdy ride.
ADJUSTABILITY
If you want the most adjustable sandals on our list, the Teva Terra Fi 5 are king. You’ll be able to dial in a precise fit and tension with hook-and-loop patches across the toes, near the ankle, and even at the back of the heel. The Terra Fi 5s are fast to put on give a personalized fit that works for any foot shape or size.
Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro’s are a close second. They also have adjustable areas at the toe, heel, and ankle. However, Bedrock uses a unique hook-and-loop closure system that makes tweaking the fit fast and easy. On-the-go modifications are easy, and there’s no need to fix or rethread the straps.
Chaco Z/1 Classic rounds out our top three. Unlike the two sandals above, Chacos have one continuous polyester strap to thread through the midsole. This allows for specific adjustments around the toe and across the instep. We like the simple, sturdy buckle to lock the straps – and our feet – in place.
DURABILITY
The Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D Pro takes our top spot for durability. Ian put his pair through the wringer for over 1,000 miles and they continue to deliver with straps and outsoles holding up no matter where we adventure. They cost more than others we’ve tested, but you get some of the most durable sandals on our list – plus, Bedrock offers resoling services if the tread blows out before the straps.
The long-time reigning champion in this metric, the Chaco Z/1 Classic, is another great choice for longevity. High-quality construction, robust materials, and thick and tough outsoles makes for top-of-the-line abrasion resistance. Because there are so few weak points and a simple design, these often last us multiple seasons and many hundreds of miles.
We also recommend the Teva Terra Fi 5 if you want sandals that last. Their recycled polyester uppers and Polyurethane midsoles are built to stand rocks, water, dirt, and anything else you’ll encounter in the wild.
VERSATILITY
When it comes to sandals you can wear any time – and any place – our top choices are the Bedrock Cairn Evo 3D, Chaco Z/1 Classic, and Luna Mono Winged. The combo of adjustable straps, customizable fits, quick-drying materials, and stylish builds makes them standouts for daily wear. Whether you’re crossing a pristine creek for the perfect campsite – or patio concrete for another drink – these are versatile sandals for your next warm-weather outing.
How to Choose Men’s Hiking Sandals
Sizing
Sandal sizing is not as straightforward as shoe sizing. Some sandals are measured by where your arch lands, and others by the distance between the edges of the sandals and the tip of your toes or heels. We highly recommend trying sandals on in person before making a purchase. Luckily, most models on this list are highly adjustable, so you can dial in the right fit for you.
Traction
Traction is one of the most important parts of any backpacking and hiking footwear. Your shoes will take you over narrow and rocky ridgelines, through slippery water crossings, and across loose scree fields. Sandals should keep you from slipping in precarious terrain like slick roots, wet rocks, and washed-out or exposed sections of trail. We heavily factor quality traction into all of our footwear recommendations.
Socks
Socks with sandals? Don’t knock it ‘til you try it! On chilly mornings and dusty trails, we’re big fans of this combo. A good pair of socks adds warmth, reduces hot spots, and helps keep things comfy. Although most people have their own favorites, we highly recommend Injinji toe socks they work well with all straps and, since there’s a bit of padding between each toe, they are next-level comfortable. Stroll over to our best hiking socks guide for more options to make a fashion statement and keep your piggies warm at the same time.
Managing Moisture & Blisters
There’s very little more satisfying than charging through a stream or creek without slowing down to remove your footwear. But, wet sandal straps can collect dirt and grime and rub your skin over time. Our favorite tip for water crossings and wet days in sandals? Bring along a pack towel to dry off your feet and sandals – and stop hotspots before they start.Also, consider keeping either Leukotape or RockTape in your hiking kit. These are essential to help prevent irritation. Take a look at our guide on how to prevent and treat blisters so you can keep your feet pain-free mile after mile.
Exposed Toes
Sure, sandals free up your feet – but they also leave your toes wide open to rocks, thorns, poison ivy, and creepy crawlies. Luckily, a few simple precautions can help you stay comfortable and protected on the trail.
- Sunblock – Skip the burns and save your skin. A high-quality SPF sunscreen can make a world of difference. Reapply consistently every few hours to prevent the tops of your feet and toes from burning.
- Focus on footing – There’s no pain quite like stubbing your toe on a rock mid-hike. Sandals leave your feet exposed, so it pays to watch your step, especially on rocky trails or tricky terrain.
- Cold conditions – A quality pair of socks and sandals is a practical move when your toes are getting cold. To find the best socks for your next sandal hiking adventure, scope our list of the best hiking socks.
CONCLUSION
Maybe you’re a boots-all-day type or loyal to your trail runners, but once you try the right hiking sandals, there’s no going back. For long summer miles, they’re the ultimate combo of comfort and speed. Remember, with the right sandals, even the roughest trails can feel like a walk in the park.
