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The ideal sandal provides a close, responsive connection to the terrain while offering just the right level of protection for comfort and safety.
In the last decade, we have taken over 100 sandals on diverse adventures, from the heights of the Sierra Nevada to California beaches and all the way to the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, taking us from day treks to water sports.
The Bedrock Cairn Adventure is the best for most people. We love the minimalist design and a perfect combination of weight and traction. Despite being one of the lightest models we tested, it manages a wide range of surfaces with ease.
A more budget-friendly model that we love is the Teva Katavi 2. Though not quite as lightweight, they are by no means heavy, and our testers found them to be quite comfortable.
The Bedrock Cairn Adventure is our top-rated sandal for its lightweight, reliable build and outstanding performance across all conditions. It's unique, adjustable strap system ensures secure footing on uneven terrain, while the footbed balances comfort and stability. The Vibram XS Trek outsole, typically found in heavier trail shoes, delivers exceptional traction. “I felt confident on every step, no matter the terrain,” one tester noted.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
Vibram XS Trek Regolith
Weight (per pair)
1.10 lbs (size 10)
Upper Material
Premium webbing
Footbed Material
Granite Grip Rubber
Midsole Material
Rubber
One of the potential drawbacks of this model is that the thong-style strap system can take some getting used to, and it cannot be worn with regular socks. We also tested some cushier models that are more comfortable and supportive, if that's typically what you prefer. However, the all-around performance, versatility, and high quality make the Cairn a worthy recipient of our top award. If you like this sandal but know you prefer a thicker and more contoured sole, we'd steer you towards the burlier Cairn Evo 3D Pro.
New Version Available
The Cairn we tested is now the Cairn Evo and has some updates to the stitching and updated sizing (previously, Bedrock's sizing ran small). We're linking to the new model in our review and plan to test it during a future update.
The Teva Katavi 2 stands out for its impressive all-around performance at a budget-friendly price. Its plush, contoured footbed, soft suede straps, and sturdy rubber outsole create a lightweight sandal that rivals pricier competitors. It has three adjustable Velcro straps for easy on-and-off and a classic Teva design, making it user-friendly. “I was amazed at how durable the outsole was on rugged trails,” one tester shared.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
Durabrasion Rubber
Weight (per pair)
1.36 lbs (size 9)
Upper Material
Suede
Footbed Material
Contoured EVA
Midsole Material
EVA
The lightweight design and nicely cushioned footbed come with a tradeoff. The Katavi came up short in our traction and stability tests, particularly in wet conditions, where we experienced some slipping on both the outsoles and the footbeds (you might be better off choosing a dedicated water shoe if you need improved wet traction.) The classic three-strap design is not as customizable as modern designs with fancier (yet more complicated) adjustment systems. Nevertheless, the Katavi 2 offers excellent value, outshining other contenders in its price range.
The ECCO Yucatan is the most comfortable sandal, boasting robust construction and premium materials. Its contoured microfiber footbed and Nubuck leather straps cradle the feet, while the midsole cushions every step. The rockered outsole promotes a natural stride. Though pricier, its superior comfort shines across diverse terrains. “It feels like walking on clouds, even on long hikes,” one tester raved.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
Rubber
Weight (per pair)
1.51 lbs (size 43 EU)
Upper Material
Nubuck leather
Footbed Material
Dual-Density EVA
Midsole Material
Polyurethane
The Yucatan falls just short of our overall winner, the Bedrock Cairn Adventure, as it weighs more, has less traction, and is less adjustable. However, with much better support, stability, and a more comfortable footbed, the Yucatan may be the right choice for many people. It won't win you any fashion contests but will keep your feet happy.
The Earth Runners Alpha is ideal for adventurers seeking a lightweight, minimalist sandal that saves space. Its sleek 10.5mm sole and ultra-thin lacing deliver comfort across terrains, though less durable than rugged hiking sandals. The single strap adjustment is tricky but secure once set. Made with eco-friendly, vegan materials like recycled nylon, it embraces a barefoot ethos. “I barely notice them in my pack, yet they feel great on trails,” one tester said.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
Vibram Morflex
Weight (per pair)
0.57 lbs (size 10)
Upper Material
Two-ply webbing
Footbed Material
Moisture Wicking Canvas
Midsole Material
Moisture-wicking canvas
Although not as traditionally comfortable as a thicker and more supportive sandal, the Alpha performs well on various terrains with a comfortable moisture-wicking canvas footbed and simple yet sophisticated lightweight construction. One drawback of this sandal is that it lacks support, though if you love barefoot-style shoes, this will be right up your alley. Overall, if you are looking for a simple, lightweight sandal to toss into your suitcase and barely notice the extra weight, check this one out.
The Keen Newport H2 shines as a versatile performance sandal, excelling in wet and dry conditions. Its durable rubber outsole and foam footbed ensure grip, while the molded insole offers lightweight comfort and support. Neoprene-backed webbing enhances comfort and dries quickly. The closed-toe design protects against rocks. “I love how it handles water and trails with ease, and I don't worry about my toes,” one reviewer noted.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sole Material
Rubber
Weight (per pair)
2.01 lbs (size 12)
Upper Material
Washable polyester webbing
Footbed Material
EVA
Midsole Material
Compression Molded EVA
One drawback of a closed-toe sandal is that it's easier for pebbles and sand to get stuck inside the shoe if you're at the beach or hiking through a rocky stream bed. This is a minor inconvenience compared to the high-end wet-condition performance of the Newport H2. Although it is ideal for watersports and our top choice for a closed-toe sandal, it also keeps up with some of the burlier models in our lineup regarding traction and stability.
The Chaco Z/Cloud may not excel in any performance metric, but it consistently resides near the top of the charts in every rating category. This model has all the features that make Chaco a longtime favorite: excellent foot security, good traction, and dependable construction, all in a package that's 20% lighter than Chaco's typical offerings. As we performed our testing, these sandals consistently delivered comfort and confidence, no matter the outing.
As with most Chaco models, adjusting the pull-through strap system's interconnected straps can be tedious and challenging, especially when adjusting the fit just right. While this makes on-the-fly adjustments a little more challenging, it certainly isn't a deal-breaker and is part of what makes this brand and style unique. There are consistently several Chacos tested in our lineup of adventure sandals, but this one is our favorite.
During steep ascents and descents through decomposed granite and over boulders the straps were easily tightened on-the-go, without removing the sandals, for a more performance fit.
Credit: Ian Cruess
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Some of the more recent new additions to our line-up include a water shoe-like sandal and an expansion of minimalistic sandals.
Credit: Jacob Clark
How We Tested
We wore each sandal extensively over months of field testing, conducting 10+ assessments per pair. To compare performance, we evaluated traction and stability by hiking identical routes on varied terrain, including wet rocks, loose scree, and paved paths. We also took these sandals kayaking, running, and skateboarding to beach barbecues to get a good understanding of each pair's strengths and weaknesses.
Most people do not buy sandals for snow, but we test them in all conditions! Amidst uncommon sandal conditions in firm spring snowpack, the Chaco Z/Cloud offered decent traction and awesome stability.
Credit: Ian Cruess
The sandals in this lineup underwent testing across five performance metrics:
Comfort (25% of total weighted score)
Traction (25% weighting)
Stability (20% weighting)
Adjustability (15% weighting)
Versatility (15% weighting)
For additional details on our testing process for these sandals, see our full How We Test article.
Why Trust GearLab
This review was lead by Nick Bruckbauer and Jacob Clark. Nick is a well-traveled adventurer and recognizes the significance of high-quality footwear as an essential part of his gear. He resides along California's Central Coast, allowing him to sport open-toed footwear almost year-round. Jacob is a former climbing guide and route setter who also spends most of his year on the beaches of the Central Coast of California. His favorite local spot for hiking and running is the cherished Los Padres National Forest. He has extensive experience traversing mountain ranges throughout the US, often with his dog Eli.
The Teva Katavi 2's plush footbed material, subtle contouring, and soft strap lining material make them one of the most comfortable models we tested.
Today's hiking sandals can handle beaches, boulders, bars, and everything in between.
We constantly adjusted and reassessed each pair of sandals throughout our testing process.
Analysis and Test Results
We reviewed top sporty sandals from leading brands, focusing on secure fit and traction for active adventures. Our selection also includes comfort-driven and minimalist barefoot-style options, balancing performance, comfort, and value for on- and off-trail activities. For a casual choice, check out our review on the best men's flip flops.
What's the Best Value?
Not all footwear is made or priced equally. We've observed that lower price tags often correspond with less expensive materials. While bargain hunting can be useful in some cases, we generally don't recommend it for footwear you use regularly. When evaluating the value of these models, we looked for products that balance quality, durability, and reasonable affordability.
The Teva Hurricane XLT2, transitioning from wet rocky stream crossings back to boulder hopping and trail with ease.
Credit: Jacob Clark
For an extremely comfortable model with respectable all-around performance that won't empty your wallet, the Teva Katavi 2 is priced at roughly half the cost of some of its high-end competitors. While not a top scorer, the Teva Original Universal is a comfortable classic at a friendly price with everything you need for more casual, non-technical terrain. While a bit pricier, the Chaco models, such as the Chaco Z/2 Classic, have noticeably burlier materials and a reputation for longevity.
The Katavi 2 from Teva provides excellent value, respectable all-around performance, and a list price that is half that of some of its competitors.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Comfort
Sandals are generally for casual and laid-back use. Although we selected models capable of withstanding tough conditions, we didn't want to compromise the comfortable, easy-going essence of sandals solely for performance. We carefully observed how our feet interacted with the shoes initially and over an extended period of wear. The contact points between the arch, footbed, straps, buckles, and attachments are all crucial contributors to comfort. Pairs that are ergonomic and well-designed generally receive higher scores.
We evaluated comfort during various activities, on different surfaces, and in diverse weather conditions, wearing socks when possible. After unboxing, we determined if each sandal required any break-in period before extensive use. If any hotspots or weaknesses emerged, we concentrated on the design or materials that might pose long-term issues.
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 Teva Katavi 2 and the ECCO Yucatan are exceptional performers for comfort and versatility. Both have supportive yet cushioned sole construction that delivers the highest comfort levels in most situations. Teva utilizes a soft foam bed on most of their sandals, leading to a simple and affordable package. Additionally, the extra material coverage makes the feet feel secure and comfortable, although individuals with flat feet may need to explore other options. Both models feature decent arches. The Birkenstock Arizona also stood out for its soft, conforming footbed and cozy materials. The ease of sliding these on and off additionally enhances their everyday convenience.
The ECCO Yucatan is built for stability and comfort on every terrain.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Regarding comfort, we'd be remiss not to mention the ultralight options in our lineup. These minimal sandals, such as the Luna Oso Flaco Winged, Xero Z-Trail EV, and Earth Runners Alpha, are minimalist in design and subsequently less comfortable. These models aim to provide a barefoot feel, so naturally, you'll feel more rocks beneath your foot and less cushioning in your step. None of this is good or bad, but it is worth remembering in this particular category, depending on your preferences.
The Luna Oso Flaco Winged keeps things minimal, but the adjustment options add to its comfort for those that enjoy this style.
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 that caused some chafing and bleeding until everything was broken in. The Astral Webber is a water-focused sandal with a soft, comfy foam footbed. It feels more like a shoe than a sandal and has a narrow fit, but we experienced no hotspots, and the break-in period was very quick.
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
Traction
Today's top-performing sandals have come a long way from the slippery, spongy, bargain-bin flip-flops we wore to the pool as kids. These days, it's not uncommon to find Vibram materials or other grippy rubber on the soles of many newer models. These top offerings provide excellent traction and are versatile and functional in various situations.
We tested traction on mossy creekbeds, steep granite scrambles, and loose, dusty trails. Each model was subjected to wet and dry conditions, carrying a pack, walking uphill and downhill, and being pulled by an energetic pup. We awarded high marks to models that provided confidence in even the sketchiest conditions. The Bedrock Cairn Adventure takes the cake in this category, which is unsurprising considering its aggressive tread pattern and Vibram XS Trek outsole material. Our feet felt secure and locked in, no matter what conditions or surfaces we faced.
The rather unique and full Vibram sole of the Bedrock Cairn Adventure helps to keep these sandals stable over a variety of obstacles.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Stiff-soled models like the ECCO Yucatan, Bedrock Cairn 3D PRO II Adventure, and all the Chaco models received respectable scores. However, they lack the raw gripping potential of a more flexible sole across all conditions. These models feature various types of hard rubber molded into sporty tread patterns that maintain traction in most conditions, including loose pebbles and wet rock. Some received deductions due to our having less confidence in steep descents and the footbed's inability to mold around the terrain.
The Ecco Yucatan 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 still stands out with its outsole reminiscent of winter vehicle tires and optimized for wet conditions. Similarly, with its grippy Spider Rubber, the Teva Terra Fi 5 and Teva Hurricane XLT2 provide dependable, well-rounded traction, though models with Vibram soles best them.
The small zig-zagging sipes on the sole of the Newport H2, a design commonly found on winter vehicle tires, provide excellent grip in wet conditions.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
In general, a benefit of minimalist sandals tends to be superior traction. A thin, flexible sole often gives a better grip on all terrains. The Luna Oso Flaco Winged and Earth Runner's Alpha offer excellent traction by molding around the surface below your feet and utilizing Vibram rubber.
The Earth Runners Alpha working its way up a slimy wet surface with relative ease and almost no slippage.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Stability
Stability is a crucial factor when evaluating the performance of technical footwear. A sandal that lacks stability resembles a flip-flop more than a sandal. We closely observed how balanced, firm, and secure our feet felt while wearing the sandals in this lineup on various terrains. Rigid (but not cumbersome) midsoles, secure straps, and superior arch support were the primary contributors to stability. High-scoring products offer a secure and stable experience in nearly all outdoor environments and activities.
The most notable models in this category are the Keen Newport H2, ECCO Yucatan, and Chaco Z/1 Classic. These sandals feature a stiffer and heavier sole that can endure harsh conditions and provide significant arch support. The adjustable straps and webbing on the Z/1 Classic deliver excellent support over the instep, while the fully enclosed Newport H2 offers a sense of security regardless of the terrain. Similarly, the Yucatan wraps snugly around large swathes of the foot, hugging it securely. The Keen Targhee III Open-Toe also delivers above-average stability.
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 Teva Katavi 2, Bedrock Cairn Adventure, Cairn 3D PRO II Adventure, and Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed all provide decent stability, albeit with significantly different designs. Flat-footed individuals or barefoot enthusiasts who prefer a “trail feel” will appreciate the Cairn options, while those seeking more support should consider the Katavi 2 or Arizona Soft Footbed.
The protective upper material and a sturdy sole design make the Newport H2 one of the most stable and supportive models in our lineup.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Unsurprisingly, the Teva Original Universal, Xero Z-Trail EV, and the other minimalist models receive generally lower scores in this metric. These models intentionally sacrifice stability for a lightweight, straightforward design. We don't expect a lightweight, flexible, barefoot-inspired model to offer exceptional stability — the idea with this type of design is that stability comes from your body instead of the shoe's architecture.
While not as flexible as some, this thin sole remains quite flexible.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Adjustability
Similar to comfort, adjustability is closely related to how a sandal interacts with the foot and, consequently, impacts overall comfort. We designed this metric to assess each contender's ergonomic function and customization, specifically, how the sandal secures to the foot. We considered the total adjustment points, their ease of adjustment, and how often they needed fine-tuning during use.
Initially, we were curious about which strap or material configuration provided the most utility. Generally, we prefer models with multiple adjustment areas that offer different fits or styles to cater to multi-sport enthusiasts. Several adjustment areas also allow for a more precise fit on irregular feet or those with calluses from a season of wearing ski boots
A beefed up version of the regular Bedrock Cairn Adventure, the Cairn 3D PRO II Adventure has a thicker sole, a slightly different strap system, and a contoured footbed.
Credit: Jacob Clark
The top performer in this category is the Bedrock Cairn Adventure, which delivers excellent adjustability and customization in fit after a slight learning curve. Its three-way strap configuration allows for a secure fit that quickly and easily accommodates micro-adjustments on the go. The beefed-up Cairn 3D Pro II is very similar, with the addition of a speed buckle and two hook-and-loop style buckles made for easy and fast adjustments. We found the speed buckle a bit odd to use and prefer the simpler configuration on the flagship Cairn overall. The Xero Z-Trail EV and the Chaco models follow the Bedrocks — both offer very different strap systems with multiple adjustment locations for a customized fit. However, the Bedrock system is ultimately the simplest and most intuitive.
The hook and loop system unique to the Cairns helps to provide a low profile and customized fit.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Most of the Teva models, the ECCO Yucatan, and the Keen Targhee III Open-Toe rank in the middle of the pack with conventional three-strap sporty designs. These models can provide a secure and customized fit, but not without considerable tinkering and adjustment. The closed-toe varieties we tested are boxy and incapable of achieving a precise fit.
The main ankle strap is one of two adjustable locations on the Teva Original Universal.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Versatility
With contemporary innovations and unique technology permeating the outdoor consumer market, sandals are becoming increasingly prevalent as multi-purpose footwear. A reliable pair should easily navigate rugged terrain or river crossings while stylishly strolling through town. Striking the right balance between performance, functionality, and utility is challenging. In this metric, we favorably scored models that transitioned seamlessly through various activities, from fishing and skateboarding to trailblazing and visiting the taco bar.
Overall, the Bedrock Cairn Adventure is the most versatile model. It is sturdy and grippy while being lightweight, packable, and comfortable enough for even the longest days–– seemingly, no situation is too much for it. Following closely are the Chaco models, such as the Z/2 Classic, and the burlier Bedrock model, the Cairn 3D Pro II, which are slightly bulkier and less packable than the original Cairn but ultimately well-suited for various tasks. The ECCO Yucatan is the most versatile traditional sports model, offering exceptional comfort and support across any terrain or activity.
The Luna Oso Flaco Winged handles most situations with ease in a compact and simple style with some added feature not present in other minimalistic sandals.
Credit: Jacob Clark
Certain models, like the Teva Original Universal, may not be sporty enough for challenging approaches but are well-rounded enough to receive a respectable score. While practical for specific purposes, we awarded lower scores to minimalist models like the Z-Trail EV, Earth Runners, and Luna Oso Flaco because they didn't instill complete confidence in certain activities where more support is necessary. But, as with most things, much of this comes down to personal preference.
Multiple factors like comfort, traction, support, and style will impact a sandal's versatility.
Credit: Jacob Clark
How to Choose Sandals
You likely spend time researching and considering the best option when you buy a new pair of running shoes, so why wouldn't you do the same with your sandals? There are a few factors to consider when choosing this kind of footwear.
Intended Activities
Sandals serve varied purposes: supportive for hiking, secure for water activities like rafting, or stylish for casual summer wear. Some, like ours, excel in all three. Choose a sandal matching your lifestyle—water sandals need a secure fit and strong wet traction to stay on in currents. (Alternatively, you might like to check out our favorite water shoes for men for this purpose). Sandals for hiking generally need a comfortable footbed and adequate traction for rocky trails. And style is subjective, of course, so select a design that suits your tastes!
Sandal Design
Opt for a closed-toe sandal for hiking or water activities needing toe protection, though they're less stylish. Prioritize comfort and choose sandals with high adjustability to customize fit, preventing hot spots and blisters. For more details on buying the right sandal for your needs, see our full Sandal Buying Advice article.
Closed-toe sandals are great for watersports but have an unjust reputation as “dad shoes.” Dad jokes aside, we favored the Newport H2 for its comfort, style, and functionality.
Conclusion
Our team has acquired and scrutinized the premier sandals in the industry for over ten years, and this review aims to highlight the nuanced strengths and weaknesses of the top-performing models available on the market today. Offering more breathability and less weight than typical hiking shoes, this footwear category can bridge the gap between performance and casual. We hope our findings assist you in finding 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, guaranteeing a fit for every adventure and individual.
