Skip the sneakers and let your feet breathe — these sandals work even on rougher trails. (Teva)
Looking for the best walking sandals that won't leave you with regrets (or blisters) after an hour? Same. Finding the perfect pair can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with hundreds of options promising cloud-like comfort and all-day support. But here's the thing about walking sandals — what works for quick coffee runs likely won't cut it for extended city walking tours and certainly won't help during all-day hikes over rough or slippery terrain.
We spent months testing popular sandals, walking at least five miles in each pair across different terrains — from city sidewalks to sandy beaches. Why such intense testing? Because your summer treks deserve better than painful feet. Using a detailed evaluation process, we rated each pair on function, comfort, style and price. The walking sandals that made our list scored the highest across all these categories.
As Thomas Pontinen, MD, co-founder of Midwest Anesthesia and Pain Specialists (MAPS) in Chicago, says, there's no one-size-fits-all shoe because every activity offers different risks and limitations. That's why "it's important to make sure the shoes you choose are designed to protect your feet in the specific use and context that you need," he says.
Before investing in your summer footwear, ask yourself these expert-recommended questions:
How long will you typically walk?
What terrain will you tackle?
What weather conditions will you face?
Your answers to these questions will guide you toward the best walking sandals for your needs. After extensive testing and expert consultations, here are our top picks.
Sizing: Women's 5-14, men's 4-14 | Materials: EVA foam midsole, foam footbed, recycled plastic, rubber outsole | Type of support: Neutral | Adjustable straps: Yes
Right out of the box, our tester noted that the Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals felt like gliding on smooth terrain. While we tried the women's version, there's also a men's version available.
During a rainy five-mile hike, these impact-absorbing sandals stayed comfortable, thanks in part to their hook-and-loop straps. These provide for a more precise fit that helps prevent the common dig-in and blisters that often occur with first-time sandal wear. The additional heel padding also virtually eliminates the chance of chafing.
Our tester also noted that the rubber outsole was helpful on her wet excursion — she wasn't worried about slipping, thanks to the grippy tread.
The Hurricane XLT2 Sandals were so comfy, in fact, that our tester didn't even kick them off when she got home from her trek. Instead, she kept them on well into the evening!
For those worried about stink: These walking sandals stay surprisingly fresh thanks to peppermint-based antimicrobial treatment. No funky post-hike smell here. (This is especially helpful when wearing without socks.)
As a bonus, Teva sandals are made with a recycled polyester upper and recycled EVA midsole, making them a sustainable choice.
Sizing: Men's 5-12 | Materials: Waterproof leather, microsuede footbed, rubber outsole | Type of support: Neutral | Adjustable straps: Yes
Kuru is known for making comfortable walking and hiking shoes, and the Kuru Tread proves that they're up to the task when it comes to hiking sandals too. These sandals feature a deep heel cup and quality arch support that together help promote proper gait. The adjustable straps also allow for a customized fit that reduces the likelihood of rubbing or chafing that could lead to blisters.
Our tester appreciated how comfortable they felt, even on extended excursions at a more intense pace — he said he might even try jogging in them, if only for short intervals. That said, he wouldn't suggest them for serious hiking or rougher trails. While they offer a high-quality rubber tread that would likely stand up to uneven terrain, he stressed that he wouldn't want to wear open-toed sandals on single-track trails with lots of rocks, roots or brush. There's just not enough protection.
It's also worth noting that the Tread is made of waterproof materials, so even though they're made of leather, you can safely wear them in the rain or take them to the beach.
While we like these most as a men's all-around walking sandal, Kuru does offer a women's version too.
Sizing: 5-11 | Materials: Foam midsole, leather straps, cork footbed | Type of Support: Neutral | Adjustable Straps: Yes
Our wide-footed tester found the "original fit" of the Keen Women's Elle Mixed Strap made a "remarkable difference" during long walks on the beach, an activity that usually requires running shoes. The generous toe space proved especially valuable, though this feature could be a disadvantage for those with narrow feet.
Our tester also loved the soft lining that prevented irritation. This feature is crucial, as Robbie Mann a physical therapist FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers in Asheville, N.C., explains, since "friction from abrasive materials can cause blisters with prolonged walking."
The bungee-system closure allows you to pull and lock the straps to ensure your feet stay put, without having to readjust the fit with hook-and-loop closures.
Bonus: Despite the sandals' black soles, they didn't scuff the floor when walking indoors.
While we tested the 2023 Mixed Strap version that's now almost out of stock (see, people love it!), the brand's Criss Cross Sandals and Back Strap Sport Sandals offer similar features in a variety of colors.
Sizing: Women's 4-12.5, men's 6-15.5 | Materials: Soft nubuck leather upper with one side bar, neoprene lining | Type of Support: Neutral | Adjustable Straps: Yes
ECCO's Yucatan Sports Sandals are available in men's and women's versions, making them a good choice for the whole family. And if you're searching for comfort on lower-intensity hikes or longer walking tours, these earned our top rating for comfort during testing, thanks to their midsole cushioning, leather straps and molded footbed.
Our tester wore them on a long, slow hike through a mix of gravel and dirt trails and gave high marks for foot-protection and comfort, noting that there was no digging in, even after hours of walking. The slight rocking motion in the sole made each step feel smoother, especially on flat sections.
The overwhelming number of 5-star reviews on Amazon confirm our findings, with one reviewer writing: "No footwear is as comfortable for me as these sandals are. These are great sandals, comfortable, worth the money, durable for life — almost."
Keep in mind that the Yucatan Sports Sandals are ideal for long-distance walking but not necessarily for a rugged hike — they have a rubber outsole that can stand up to slick streets and lower-intensity trails, but the narrower construction leaves something to be desired on more rocky or rugged terrain.
Sizing: Women's 5-11, men's 7-15 | Materials: Leather and textile upper, leather lining, cork footbed, foam midsole, rubber sole| Type of Support: Neutral | Adjustable Straps: Yes
Outdoor adventurers and water enthusiasts appreciate Keen Hyperport H2 Sandals' clever slip-on design and textured rubber bottom that offers plenty of traction and stability across slick rocks and wet trails.
Our tester wore these Keens during a full day at the beach — swimming, plus walking across rocky patches and the hot sand. Through it all, the bungee-lacing system provided a secure fit without pinching. Plus, the cushioned midsole made walking over sand and shells a breeze.
Our favorite feature? The mesh lining that wicks away water, offering a quick dry even after multiple trips in and out of the water
While they're touted as lightweight, our tester thought the sandals felt a bit heavy. And, while overall they are very comfortable, she noted that there was some rubbing near the ankle.
However, in terms of sandals that can take it all in stride, from beach days to creek crossings? These Keens were the best for aqueous situations. And, like most of our stand-out choices, the Keen Hyperport H2 Sandals are available in men's and women's versions.
Sizing: Women's 6-15, men's 5-14 | Materials: Synthetic and neoprene upper shoe, foam midsole | Type of Support: Neutral | Adjustable Straps: No
From testing, we found that Hoka Hopara Sandals prove the brand's excellence isn't limited to running shoes. After taking them across all types of terrain — from slippery trails and jagged rocks to desert sand — they easily earned our top spot for best hiking sandal.
Our testers loved the pull tabs, which made donning and doffing the shoes super easy. They also appreciated the sandals' foot enclosure and higher-than-average ankle support, which made navigating uneven ground easy and comfortable. The rubber toe cap protects against rocks, twigs and cactus needles. Plus, Hopara's deep lugs on the outsole provide worry-free traction on wet and dry surfaces.
The feature that truly puts these sandals over the top is the arch support and cushioning, which kept our tester's plantar fasciitis from acting up.
"Traditionally, sandals lack good arch support, which can lead to foot and ankle pain when walking prolonged distances," says Mann. "Proper arch support neutralizes joint alignment and optimizes muscle function — making arch support key to finding a great walking sandal."
While we tested the original, there's now an upgraded Hopara 2 featuring a thicker midsole and better drainage.
Now is not the time to shop for style and price alone! Instead, make an informed decision based on the activity you're participating in. Doing so can "enhance your posture and body alignment, which is important for avoiding joint issues and back pain," says exercise physiologist Bryan Whatley, founder and CEO of NexGen Fitness. Plus, choosing the best walking sandal for you can help prevent injury and improve your performance. Whatley recommends focusing on these key features:
Arch support
Cushioned soles
Rugged outsoles
Adjustable ankle straps for a secure fit
It's also important to consider whether you need stability features. These shoes provide moderate support designed for people with neutral arches, rather than flat feet or high arches. To determine if stability shoes would benefit you, April Medrano, a certified personal trainer and head of programming for STRIDE Fitness, suggests visiting a specialty store where a walking-shoe specialist can analyze your foot strike and make personalized recommendations.
Looking for the best walking sandals is serious business. We interviewed four experts (including sports scientists and exercise physiologists) and put multiple brands and styles through the paces. When testing, we zeroed in on what matters most: comfort and value. After all, even the fanciest walking sandals aren't worth much if it hurts your feet or breaks the bank.
Budget: After fully testing each pair, we compared their quality and performance with their price tag. Essentially, we asked ourselves: Are these walking sandals worth paying full price?
Comfort: If a walking sandal wasn't comfortable right out of the box, it didn't make our list. We tested each pair during daily activities and light cardio, taking note of any chafing or blistering. We also evaluated arch support, breathability and how the sandals felt after extended wear (at least 5 miles of walking and light exercise).
Stability: Our testers kept a close eye on how stable their ankles and knees felt while walking, and how well the midsole cushioning handled heel-to-toe transitions across different surfaces. We gave top marks to sandals that felt secure and balanced whether on sidewalks, trails or uneven ground.
Fit: We assessed how each sandal fit from the moment we slipped them on. After a full day of wear, we answered these key questions:
Did they offer support for the activity?
Were they too tight or too loose?
Did our toes or heels hang over the edges?
Did our feet slide around inside?
Did we need to keep adjusting the straps?
Quality: We started by inspecting how each sandal was built. We tested flexibility on stairs, trails and in parks to make sure the soles bent naturally without feeling flimsy and kept our feet secure. Throughout testing, we watched for any signs of wear and tear, like fraying straps or lining coming loose.
Cushioning: Our testers looked for the sweet spot between plush comfort and solid support. While some sandals felt comfortable but flimsy, others were too rigid and rubbed in all the wrong places.
The most important qualities in walking sandals include:
Arch support: Knowing if you have high arches or flat feet will help you choose the support you need.
Breathable material: Your feet sweat when you're walking, so the best walking sandals feature materials that wick away moisture. If they don't, you risk blistering.
Durable outsole: This will be helpful to prevent slipping on any type of terrain you cross.
Lightweight: Look for lightweight walking sandals that won't tire your feet during extended walks, especially in warm weather. Plus, a lighter shoe typically allows for better mobility and more comfortable all-day wear.
Yes, but it depends on which walking sandals you choose. If you need long-distance walking sandals, seek shoes with contoured footbeds, strong arch support and cushioned midsoles.
Your sandals should fit snugly without pinching. You should have enough room to press your thumb between your longest toe and the front edge, allowing your feet space to breathe and swell during activity. Choosing sandals with adjustable straps also helps to secure your feet and prevent sliding.
Other products tested and not used in our reviews include:
Nike Kepa Kai Sandals: Although the Nike Kepa Kai Sandals are comfy, gentle on the feet and score high in functionality, they lack the support needed on uneven terrain, making them a great choice for around-the-house wear.
Crocs Classic Sandals: Despite being a famous brand, the Crocs Classic Sandals did not measure up in the durability department, especially during long walks on rugged terrain. However, these slide-on sandals are great for casual wear, like a beach walk — but no running.
Reef Fanning Men's Sandals: Named after three-time world surf champion Mick Fanning, the Fanning walking sandals are quite stylish but are narrow toward the front, making them uncomfortable for all-day wear or long-distance walking.
Oofos OOriginal Recovery Sandals and Oofos Oohahh Slide Slippers: While both of these sandals from Oofos are incredibly comfortable and excellent for throwing on after a workout, their springy foam soles and rocker bottoms are better suited for a spa day than a strenuous hike. Plus, the lack of additional straps to help keep them in place means they don't offer the support you need for more serious exercise.
Kuru Kala: Kuru Kalas are attractive, comfortable sandals that works well for running errands or doing lighter activity, but without adjustable straps or more features geared toward outdoor use (like water resistance or a slip-resistant sole), it's hard to suggest using them for longer, more challenging walks.
April Medrano, CPT, certified personal trainer and head of programming for STRIDE Fitness
Bryan Whatley, CPT, exercise physiologist, certified personal trainer and CEO of NexGen Fitness
Robbie Mann, PT, a physical therapist FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Centers in Asheville, N.C.
Thomas Pontinen, MD, co-founder of Midwest Anesthesia And Pain Specialists (MAPS) in Chicago
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
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