13 Best Outdoor Sandals In 2024
poulami nag wedetso chirhah deyasini biswas Deyasini holds a bachelor's honors degree in English Literature from Jadavpur University and a postgraduate diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling from the London College of Style. She has three years of experience in the fashion industry, working as an editorial and product stylist, following which she has chosen to return to her roots in the language arts as a commerce content writer at MomJunction.
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With the advent of warmer climates, it’s the ideal time for hitting the beach, going hiking, camping, or just lounging in your backyard. Though shoes do an awesome job, a good pair of tried-and-tested outdoor sandals can give you the same traction that you need for outdoor activities and protection without their heat, weight, and fabric. Numerous brands have beefed up the regular flip-flops and revamped them with features such as better arch support, thicker and more cushioned soles, and more secure webbing.
Be it wet or hot weather, outdoor sandals are a great substitute for traditional hiking shoes. The right footwear can take your outdoor adventures to a whole new level of enjoyment. So strap on your new footwear and get ready for the time of your life. We hope our review of the best-selling outdoor sandals will help you get an extremely comfortable pair for your next trip.
Top Picks
13 Best Outdoor Sandals
1.Best Sunshine Comfort:Skechers On The GO 600 – Brilliancy
The On The Go sandals by the trusted brand Sketchers are suitable for sunny weather to keep you comfortable and sweat-free. It is made of an innovative 5GEN cushioned midsole for a plush feel and durability. Additionally, the sandals have a contoured GagaMAt comfort footbed that resists stress during exercises or mild running. These river sandals boast quality craftsmanship and a mesh upper for breathability. Moreover, the hook-and-loop closure of the sandals offers a snug yet comfy fit, and the minimalist footwear is lightweight and easy to carry without feeling bulky.
Pros
- Suitable for wide feet
- Durable rubber sole
- Machine washable
- Available in a wide range of colors
Cons
- Straps may stretch gradually
- Velcro may not be durable
"The supportive soles and padded straps keep my feet from blistering during outdoor adventures. They did not even cause any redness or strap marks, even when I wore them all day. And while the lack of half sizes was surprising, the fit has been satisfactory."
2.Best Durable:Ecco Women’s Yucatan Sport Sandal – Multicolor
These must-have outdoorsy sandals are suitable for everything from camping to water adventures. Equipped with full-length Receptor Technology, this pair of sandals has a direct-injected PU midsole that provides natural movement, more efficient push-off, and extra stability and cushioning. It has an exceptionally lightweight and durable shock-absorbing rubber sole and a dual-density EVA footbed for added comfort. It features yak leather nubuck uppers with a stretch-fit Gore-Tex membrane that is completely waterproof and highly breathable. This technology offers adequate ventilation, ensuring your feet are always comfortable and dry when hiking in sandals. The leather is treated with hydromax to become highly water repellent so that the leather doesn’t harden on drying. Equipped with BIOM natural motion technology, these sandals feature a low-to-the-ground construction for better ground contact and flexibility.
Pros
- Extremely durable material
- Soft feel
- Excellent stretch and return
- Abrasion-resistant leather
- 20° angle of ground contact
- Specially rounded heel
- Integrated internal midfoot shank for added support
- Dual flex grooves for efficient push-off
Cons
- Some feel the insole could have more cushioning.
"Adjustable, cushioned, and ventilated�these shoes boast everything I was looking for. Initially, their toe area did feel a little snug, but has gotten comfortable with regular use. Also, its durable build assures me that it will last long."
3.Best Iconic Comfort:Teva Women’s Original Universal Sandal – Sun And Moon In
A true icon in the outdoor sandal industry, this product gives you the assurance of comfort and style. The very word ‘teva’ is a reference to nature and is perfect for hiking and water activities. It features fast-drying webbing that is crafted from recycled plastic, and bungee cord lace to hold the foot in place securely. The rubber sole, a special feature, provides the required traction and support, while an EVA midsole offers light cushioning, and the durable and rugged spider rubber outsole offers an incredible grip. Moreover, its fashionable color combination can pass the most stringent stylistic evaluations.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Repreve polyester yarn by Unifi
- Durable and sturdy
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- Some feel it doesn’t hold the foot well in place.
"Whether hiking or a casual day out with friends, I prefer wearing these sandals as they are very airy. Adjusting the straps posed a learning curve, but they never chafed or cut my skin. Overall, these have been a versatile find that I love flaunting."
4.Best Slip-Resistant:Keen Women’s Astoria West Open Toe Sandals
Made from recycled P.E.T plastic bottles, the Keen Astoria toe sandals offer a contoured fit with a roomy toe space. The sandal features slip-resistant Aquagrip rubber to provide traction on wet surfaces and slippery rocks. Additionally, it features fast-drying webbings to keep you dry after using the sandals on a beach or wet surface. They have an EVA midsole for effective cushioning that keeps you comfortable as you walk. It is designed with three-point adjustable straps for a personalized fit and a lifted heel for an athletic look.
Pros
- Waterproof sandal
- Effective arch support
- Suitable for wide feet
- Suitable for hiking
Cons
- May not be compatible with an AFO brace
"I got these sandals due to the attractive strap pattern, but they have also proven adaptable. Their cushioning is decent enough to support my feet during long walks. Moreover, the machine washable build has allowed me to keep them looking like new."
5.Best Arch Support:CIOR Women’s Outdoor Sandals – Black
These smart-looking outdoor sandals have a soft, textured EVA yoga mat insole for extra grip and to absorb impact. The outsoles are designed with rubber that are slip-resistant and flexible. These quality-tested, lightweight sandals feature a 1-centimeter heel and effective arch support for extra support while standing. It also controls the foot and prevents excess pronation. Soft, padded, woven heel straps are comfortable and durable, and protect your feet from chafing and blisters even on long hikes. These minimalist sandals feature convenient hook-and-loop closures so that you can put them on and take them off quickly, and get the fit just right.
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Waterproof
- Soft and flexible soles
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Some feel the velcro strap could be more securely attached.
"I was skeptical about getting these sandals due to their no-frills design, but their adaptability has won me over. Their fit is also correct, and the bouncy cushioning keeps shock away from my feet when I walk or engage in sports activities."
6.Best Adjustable Fit:Dream Pairs Women’s Outdoor Sandals – New-Purple
With a durable rubber sole and a heel height of approximately one inch, these classic-style waterproof hiking sandals are an extremely durable and comfortable option for outdoor activities. It features an ultra-soft and cushioned EVA footbed and adequate arch support for underfoot comfort. Bungee elastic lacing gives you flexibility in adjusting the fit, and its hook-and-loop closure at the back makes it easy to put on and take off. Its anti-collision design protects your feet from any injuries by stones or rocks, especially to the toes, and is suitable for rough terrain. So get ready for the outdoors with these comfortable and smart-looking sandals!
Pros
- Casual and stylish look
- Sturdy construction
- Available in a variety of colors
- Velcro adjustment at the rear
Cons
- No extra arch support
"While their straps are more spaced out than they look in the images, they serve well as my everyday footwear. Their arch support is also praiseworthy, and the velcro closure allows me to easily adjust the fit."
7.Best Timeless Design:Chaco Women’s Z1 Classic Outdoor Sandal – Black
This dependable and streamlined pair of outdoor sandals boasts of a timeless and simple design. Every pair features adjustable straps for a customized fit, and a LUVSEAT PU footbed that is podiatrist-certified for all the support and comfort that your feet need. The upper is designed with polyester Jacquard webbing that goes around the foot and midsole for a perfectly adjustable fit. It also features high tensile, durable, and adjustable webbing heel risers along with an injection-molded ladder lock buckle. The outsole is crafted with non-marking ChacoGrip rubber, and has a lug depth of 3 mm.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly construction
- Waterproof sandal
- Stylish and comfortable
- Available in several colors
Cons
- Some feel the sole could be more flexible.
"Switching to these sandals has been a pleasure as they offer excellent arch support and easily accommodate my wide feet. Their design, though simple, looks elegant. Hence, I wear it everywhere, from the supermarket to weekend trips to the beach."
8.Best Breathable:Eagsouni Garden Clogs
This innovative outdoor sandal can be used both as garden clogs in all seasons and for all outdoor activities, as well as house slippers or outdoor sandals. The garden clogs can convert into slide slippers by simply adjusting the backstrap. The upper has a mesh, hollow-out design, which makes them more breathable due to air permeability. The sole is crafted with EVA and rubber, ensuring excellent stability and traction on all terrains and surfaces. Incredibly lightweight, these closed-toe sandals with quality craftsmanship reduce the stress on your feet and are very easy to put on and take off.
Pros
- Convenient slip-on closure
- Super soft and flexible soles
- Backstrap provides ease of adjustment
- Weighs 100 to 150 grams
- True to size
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- They are not waterproof
"I�m happy these clogs have offered a snug fit and are breathable enough to be worn during summer. Besides, their adjustable strap keeps them from sliding off my feet, and the combination of blue and red looks charming."
9.Best Water-Resistant:Keen Arroyo II Outdoor Sandal
One of the best sandals for hiking, it’s a perfect combination of all that’s good about a sandal and a hiking shoe, and the hybrid closed-toe design of this product is incredibly stylish and comfortable. Designed with waterproof nubuck leather, it provides protection against moisture and rain, and prevents the leather from drying out. The upper features open vents for maximum breathability and has 4 mm multi-directional lugs in the rubber outsole for the required traction and grip in rough terrain. Its dual-density, metatomical EVA footbed is removable and promises long-lasting comfort. These tried-and-tested sandals also boast of a unique toe bumper that prevents injuries and offers additional safety, while its external stability shank gives the required support for better mobility and control on rough surfaces.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Very versatile
- Non-marking soles
- Hydrophobic mesh lining
- Available in 3 other colors
Cons
- Shoes may smell on getting wet
"I had to go half-size smaller than usual, yet these sandals quickly became my favorite due to their comfortable sole. Their enhanced coverage keeps pebbles away from my feet, and I am delighted that they didn't have a break-in period."
10.Best EVA Foam:Teva Women’s Omnium Sandals – Slate
Teva women’s omnium sandals bring a comfortable experience suitable for all journeys. These pairs are made of 100% synthetic/mesh with approximately 1.5-inch heels to make them more. It features hybrid support to keep you stable and protected even when walking on wet rocks and slippery surfaces. Designed with grosgrain webbing overlays and a time-tested hook-and-loop backstrap, these sandals are adventure-friendly. They also offer a three-point of adjustability to fit the unique patterns of the feet.
Pros
- EVA foam midsole
- Shock-absorbing ShocPad technology in heels
- Quick-drying upper traction with multiple drainage ports to let the water drain out quickly
- Lightweight and breathable
Cons
- Soles may seem slightly rigid
- Opening for the foot may be smaller than expected
"Impressed by the arch support offered by these sandals, I have started wearing them on all my outings. Although durable, they feel soft on the feet and provide excellent traction. Surprisingly, they even managed water encounters well during a recent trekking trip."
11.Best Shock-Absorbing:Skechers Women’s Reggae-Loopy Sandals
The Skechers Reggie-Loopy sandals with textile lining are the ideal footwear for spending a day under the scorching sun. They have soft and woven fabric-based webbed straps to ensure a comfortable yet stylish fit. These lightweight sandals have a snug buckle closure and a flexible, shock-absorbing midsole for superior traction on different terrains. Besides, its durable rubber-based traction outsole is a hit among reviewers.
Pros
- Durable
- Have a cushioned footbed
- Thick heels
- Available in multiple colors and sizes
Cons
- Straps might loosen over time
"Despite not being very cushiony, they support my arches nicely and don't feel hard on my soles. Putting them on takes slight effort, but they keep me comfortable on various terrains. Also, the green floral pattern is very adorable."
12.Best Microfiber Covered:Vionic Women’s Rest Amber Backstrap Sandals
Vionic women’s amber sandals provide enhanced support for the feet. They have microfiber-wrapped EVA footbeds that offer three-zone comfort, keeping you steady and stable when walking on different terrains. The hook-and-loop closure provides four-point adjustability for the heel, instep, forefoot, and toe, enabling you to walk more comfortably. Additionally, these sandals offer superior arch support and have been studded with metallic embellishments to make you look stylish. You can also convert these sandals into a three-strap pair by removing the embellished vertical strap.
Pros
- Podiatrist-approved
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Suitable for reducing stress on the feet, ankles, and knees
- Easy to maintain
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Straps might be shorter than expected
- May not be true to size
"Having used these sandals for a while, I am amazed at how comfortable they feel even when I walk on cobblestones. Their straps were softer than I had expected, but they still are a boon for getting the fit right. Plus, the brown hue goes well with all my clothes."
13.Best Double Strapped:Chaco Women’s Zvolv X2 Sandals
The Chaco women’s Zvolv X2 sandals allow you to customize the fit thanks to the double-strapped polyester jacquard webbing upper that spans to the midsole. Additionally, the sandals have a toe loop that ensures a snug fit and prevents your feet from slipping off. The adjustable webbings have an injection-molded ladder lock buckle, enabling you to achieve a personalized fit. These well-balanced sandals feature an ultra-soft PU midsole and a textured footbed with grooves that provide superior traction on various terrains. Loved by reviewers for their versatility, these lightweight sandals are suitable for rocky, sandy, and wet terrains and can help you stand out from the crowd.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Ideal for warm weather
- Topographic texture
- Has a thick rubber sole
- Available in multiple shades and prints
Cons
- May not be true to size
- Toe strap might be slightly tight
How To Choose The Right Outdoor Sandal
- Longevity
Lifespan and durability evaluation are important aspects when choosing outdoor sandals. Sandals made with an EVA midsole have the same lifespan as a running shoe and thus have to be replaced every 3 to 6 months. Though EVA is extremely shock absorbent and cushioned, it tends to mold to the foot and thus loses its effectiveness with time. Hiking sandals with a PU midsole have higher longevity than EVA because of its high resilience and durability, and can last at least a year or more.
- Fit
The fit of your outdoor sandals is extremely important so that it doesn’t cause blisters by rubbing in the wrong places. Some sandals mold to your foot shape for a customized fit the more you wear them. Feet tend to swell when under stress or in heat, so you should cater for enlarged feet without the sandals becoming uncomfortable. Hence, doing a fit assessment and opting for sandals that offer an adjustable fit may be the best choice.
Not all hiking sandals are sized equally, so it’s important to check each brand’s size. Some sandals may also be more suitable for narrow feet, so remember to check the width and see if that brand is available in wide sizes if you have wider feet. Otherwise, sizing up is the best choice, and you will have to tighten the straps for a comfortable fit.
- Upper
The uppers for outdoor sandals are usually made of either suede or synthetic material. Suede or nubuck is a softer and thinner type of leather, and usually lasts longer than synthetic materials. The only problem is that they take a long time to dry in case they get wet. Synthetic uppers can be made of nylon, polyester, or microfiber and are lighter and dry quicker than suede. However, they are not as long-lasting as leather. This also makes a good option for vegans.
- Midsole
The midsole, as the name suggests, is the middle layer between the topsole and the outsole, and is extremely important as it impacts durability and cushioning. PU and EVA are the most common materials used for designing the midsole. PU is long-lasting, supportive, and extremely durable, but tends to be more expensive, heavier, and requires a longer ’break-in’ period. EVA, on the other hand, is softer, lightweight, and offers added cushioning, but deteriorates between 3 to 6 months, and doesn’t offer support to heavier weights.
- Outsole
The outsole is the lowermost layer of the shoe, and as it’s in constant contact with the ground, is usually constructed with a sticky rubber compound as it offers traction. The lugs in the outsole vary in size and shape, but usually deeper lugs give more traction. Blunt and flat lugs are ideal for braking, while pointed shapes are perfect for toeing off. Most outdoor sandals have some sort of channel in the outsole that allows water to escape.
- Lacing
Traditional laces are only found in hybrid sandals for added security. Most hiking sandals use webbing in the place of laces. There are usually 3 main straps— 2 that cross over the foot and a third that holds the heel in place. Some brands also have a fourth strap that goes across the foot diagonally for added security. Toe straps are completely the choice of the user, as some hikers opt for a circular strap to separate the big toe while others go for a flip-flop toe style.
- Arch support
Arch support is one of the most important features to look at when choosing a pair of hiking sandals. This is important for keeping your feet comfortable and safe while walking for miles at a time. The arch support of outdoor sandals is very similar to that of hiking shoes and provides extra cushioning.
- Toe protection
Some outdoor sandals come equipped with a toe cap to protect your toes. It is very effective protection against loose rocks and insects.
- Waterproof and quick drying
If not waterproof, your hiking sandals should at least be quick drying so that you are not uncomfortable if you encounter rain. Wet sandals not only start smelling, but can also rub against your foot, causing blisters.
When summer is fast approaching, it’s time to start planning your days around activities like going to the beach, hiking up a hill, or setting up camp in a forest. For most summer activities, you need a sturdy, comfortable pair of outdoor sandals that provide optimal traction while allowing your feet to breathe freely. They are a great alternative to traditional hiking shoes, sticking by you through treacherous terrains without tiring you out or falling apart. Ensure the shoes are waterproof and provide ample support to your feet during your adventures. The options included in our list of the best outdoor sandals are lightweight, soft, adjustable, and made from superior-quality materials, ensuring you have a relaxing, blister-free day out.
Infographic: How To Wear Sporty Outdoor Sandals Stylishly?
Outdoor sporty sandals with rugged soles and breathable materials provide the perfect support and performance for summer outdoor activities. Pairing them with the right clothes and accessories can elevate their style and prevent them from looking clumsy. Check out the infographic below for tips for making even simple outdoor sandals look fashionable.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
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