Why I Started Testing Hiking Sandals on New Mexico Trails
Finding a truly great hiking sandal can be harder than it sounds. Most brands don’t make sandals specifically for hiking. Instead, many of the best options started as water shoes or adventure sandals and gradually became popular with hikers. Brands such as Chaco, Bedrock, KEEN, Teva, and others have built sandals that work well across trails, rivers, and hot-weather adventures.
I personally tested 10 pairs over five months, choosing trails around New Mexico because they offered almost every type of terrain I wanted to experience. I hiked across weathered granite, slick rock, sandy desert washes, multiuse trails, and shallow water crossings. That gave me a chance to compare each sandal in conditions that actually challenge your feet.
Rather than relying only on laboratory specifications, I compared the sandals side by side and focused on the things that matter most on the trail: traction, comfort, durability, fit, and protection. If you’re planning river crossings, rafting trips, paddling adventures, or summer hikes, a good hiking sandal can be much more comfortable than walking around in wet shoes all day.
Traction was one of my biggest priorities. A good sandal should grip quickly on wet rocks and other slippery surfaces without making you feel unstable. I also paid close attention to the strap systems because a sandal that constantly needs adjustment gets annoying fast.
Toe protection matters, too. Loose gravel, roots, and rocky trails can quickly turn a fun hike into an uncomfortable one. A poorly designed sandal can also rub your feet and cause blisters. After testing these options, I narrowed the list down based on how well each sandal performs for different types of hikers and adventures.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Hiking Sandals?
The best hiking sandal depends on how and where you plan to use it. For an all-around option, the Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro offers strong support, excellent wet-rock traction, and a comfortable fit for hikers with high arches.
If you prefer something lightweight and minimalist, the Bedrock Cairn Evo Pro is an excellent choice. For maximum cushioning, I’d pick the Teva Grandview Max. Hikers who want extra toe protection should look at the KEEN Newport H2, while budget-conscious shoppers can consider the Teva Hurricane XLT2, which costs around $80. If heel support is your biggest concern, the Kuru Tread Sandal is worth considering. For casual trail-to-town use, the Bedrock Clogs are another versatile option.
Whatever you choose, focus on three things first: traction, fit, and intended use. A sandal that works perfectly for a river crossing may not be the best choice for a long, rocky hike.
Why Wear Hiking Sandals?
Hiking sandals aren’t the right choice for every trail, but they can be extremely useful in hot weather and around water. The open design allows your feet to breathe, while the quick-drying construction makes shallow stream crossings much easier.
Sandals have been used for walking and hiking for thousands of years, long before modern hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail runners existed. Today, modern adventure sandals combine that open design with better soles, straps, cushioning, and protection.
Based on my testing, the sandals below offer a range of options for hikers who want something comfortable for hiking, water crossings, paddling, and warm-weather adventures.
1. Bedrock Cairn Evo Pro: Best Minimalist Hiking Sandal
The Bedrock Cairn Evo Pro is my top choice for hikers who want a minimalist sandal with excellent ground feel. Almost everything about this sandal is designed around simplicity, and that includes the adjustment system. I found it easy to tighten or loosen the straps without fighting with complicated buckles.
Its zero-drop design and flat sole encourage a more natural foot strike. The excellent rock traction also gives you a surprisingly secure feel on the trail. Because the sole is relatively flat, you can feel the terrain beneath your feet, including rocks and roots. That won’t appeal to everyone, but minimalist hikers will probably appreciate the connection to the ground.
Another advantage is the low weight and packable design. If you’re backpacking and trying to keep your gear light, the Cairn Evo Pro is easy to justify. I tested two versions myself, and I can see why the PRO version has become popular with both outdoor professionals and everyday hikers.
The footbed feels thinner and more flexible than many of the other sandals I tested. That flexibility works particularly well for paddling and everyday hiking. I was especially impressed with the fit and wet-rock traction. Once adjusted, the straps kept my feet securely in place during backpacking trips and water crossings.
The main drawback is protection. If you’re used to traditional hiking shoes or supportive sandals, the minimalist zero-drop design may take some getting used to.
Best for: Minimalist hikers, backpackers, paddlers, and anyone who values low weight and natural ground feel.
2. Bedrock Cairn Evo C: Best Comfortable Adventure Sandal
The Bedrock Cairn Evo C is a more approachable option if you like the idea of the Cairn but want additional cushioning. It keeps the simple adjustment system found on the Pro while adding a thicker sole that makes walking more comfortable.
You still get strong traction and plenty of ground feel, but the extra cushioning makes the Cairn Evo C easier to wear throughout the day. I particularly liked how easily it moves between different settings. It feels at home on a hiking trail but doesn’t look or feel out of place when you’re walking around town afterward.
The “C” stands for comfort, and that thicker, softer sole makes a noticeable difference. The three-point adjustment system provides a secure fit, while the Vibram sole gives you reliable grip.
After testing eight sandals during the spring, this was one of the pairs I kept reaching for most often. If you want more cushioning than a minimalist sandal without giving up the secure feel of the Cairn platform, this is the version I’d choose.
Best for: Hikers who want a comfortable balance between minimalist design, cushioning, and trail performance.
3. Teva Hurricane XLT2: Best Budget Hiking Sandal
The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a great choice if you want a reliable hiking sandal without spending a lot of money. At around $80, it offers a strong combination of comfort, adjustability, and everyday versatility.
The adjustable straps make it easy to dial in the fit, while the sole provides enough grip for wet rocks and everyday trails. It’s also versatile enough for water hikes and paddling, making it a practical option if you want one sandal that can handle several types of outdoor activities.
I previously took an earlier version of the Hurricane XLT on a 70-day sea kayaking trip in British Columbia. It handled salt water, sand, and heavy use surprisingly well.
My biggest complaint is the Velcro. It has a habit of catching on things, collecting grass, and potentially snagging clothing. That’s a minor annoyance, but it’s worth knowing before you buy.
Best for: Budget-conscious hikers looking for a versatile sandal for trails, water, and paddling.
4. Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro: Best Hiking Sandal for Water and Trails
The Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro is the sandal I’d choose when rugged performance and support are more important than keeping weight low. It’s designed to handle both hiking and water, making it particularly useful for river crossings, rafting, and wet trails.
The supportive footbed works especially well for hikers with high arches. The Vibram rubber outsole also provides durable traction on slick surfaces, and wide sizes are available for people who need additional room.
Introduced in 2025, the Rapid Pro is aimed at both hikers and whitewater users. It builds on the popular Chaco Z/1 design and adds a Rapid Pro sole. Chaco claims the outsole provides six times more traction on wet rock than most outdoor sandals.
That extra grip is noticeable when you’re crossing streams or walking over wet rock. Once the terrain gets slippery, having a sole that stays connected to the surface can make a big difference.
The trade-off is weight. Compared with minimalist sandals such as the Bedrock Cairn, the Chaco feels thicker, heavier, and more rigid. The added structure provides excellent arch support, but hikers with flatter feet may find it less comfortable.
For ultralight backpacking, this wouldn’t be my first choice. But if you want a rugged sandal for hiking, rafting, and other water-heavy adventures, the Z/1 Rapid Pro is a strong option.
Best for: High-arch hikers, rafting, river crossings, and demanding wet trails.
5. Teva Grandview Max: Best Cushioned Hiking Sandal
If cushioning is your top priority, the Teva Grandview Max is the standout option on this list. It delivers a soft, comfortable ride that immediately feels different from the thinner minimalist sandals.
The soft upper adds to the comfortable feel, while the design provides more protection than many traditional open-toe sandals. The Vibram outsole also gives you a useful combination of cushioning and traction.
This is the most cushioned sandal I’ve personally tested, and surprisingly, it isn’t a HOKA. The Grandview Max was introduced in 2025 as a highly cushioned sport sandal for hikers who prefer comfort over minimal weight.
Its Vibram MegaGrip outsole provides strong traction on both wet and dry trails, so the sandal isn’t simply soft—it can also perform when the trail gets challenging.
After testing it throughout spring and summer, I was impressed by how consistently comfortable and grippy it remained. It also works well around water, making it more versatile than a basic walking sandal.
If you prefer maximum cushioning and don’t mind carrying a little extra weight, the Teva Grandview Max is one of the most comfortable hiking sandals to consider.
Best for: Hikers who prioritize cushioning, comfort, and all-day wear.
6. Kuru Tread Sandal: Best Hiking Sandal for Heel Support
The Kuru Tread Sandal takes a completely different approach from minimalist hiking sandals. Instead of focusing on flexibility and ground feel, it uses a firmer, more structured design intended to provide additional support around the heel and arch.
The contoured footbed gives your foot a stable platform, while the sandal’s construction focuses heavily on heel support. The leather straps also add some protection without making the sandal feel overly bulky.
During testing, I noticed the firm arch support and sturdy heel pocket almost immediately. Kuru refers to this system as its KURUSOLE technology.
The Tread Sandal is also designed specifically for hiking rather than simply being an adventure sandal adapted for trail use. That makes it particularly interesting for hikers who prioritize structure and support over a minimalist feel.
It’s not the right choice if you want an ultra-flexible sandal or maximum cushioning. Instead, it makes more sense for someone looking for a supportive hiking sandal with a firm footbed.
Best for: Hikers who prioritize heel support, structured cushioning, and a supportive footbed.
7. KEEN Newport H2: Best Closed-Toe Hiking Sandal
The KEEN Newport H2 is my pick for the best closed-toe hiking sandal. Its biggest advantage is protection. The toe cap helps shield your feet from rocks, roots, and other obstacles while still giving you the breathability and water-friendly design of a sandal.
The cushioned footbed also provides good support, including for hikers with wider feet. I’ve personally used the Newport for years in a variety of situations, from casual wear and river wading to longer adventures at Havasupai Falls.
One experience that stands out was hiking in the Newport for two full days on water-heavy trails. That experience showed me why this sandal remains such a popular option for hikers who regularly move between land and water.
The toe bumper is particularly useful when you’re walking through rocky streams because it protects your toes from both underwater obstacles and trail debris.
The Newport H2 doesn’t use Vibram rubber and doesn’t have the aggressive tread of some dedicated hiking footwear. However, its siped outsole increases surface contact, helping provide traction on wet rock.
The downside is weight. I’ve carried it on backpacking trips specifically for water crossings, but it’s noticeably heavier than lighter minimalist sandals.
Best for: Water hikes, rocky trails, wide feet, and hikers who want maximum toe protection.
8. KEEN Hyperport H2: Best Lightweight Closed-Toe Hiking Sandal
The KEEN Hyperport H2 offers a lighter alternative to the Newport H2 while keeping the protection of a closed-toe design. It’s cushioned enough for long days and versatile enough for hiking, water activities, and even walking around town.
The tread performs well on slick rock and hard surfaces, while the closed toe helps protect your feet without making the sandal feel overly bulky.
Compared with the Newport, the Hyperport H2 isn’t quite as supportive or protective, but it is about six ounces lighter. That weight difference makes it more appealing for hikers who want something easy to pack.
It’s also a practical choice for backpacking when you want a second pair of footwear for water crossings or something comfortable to wear around camp.
Despite its lighter construction, the Hyperport still provides useful protection. The toe cap and synthetic straps help defend your feet against rocks and sharp vegetation better than most open-toe sandals.
For paddling and easier hiking terrain, this is a sandal I’d happily wear for several hours.
Best for: Lightweight water adventures, camp footwear, paddling, and hikers who want closed-toe protection without extra bulk.
9. Bedrock Clogs: Best Casual Trail-to-Town Option
I’ll admit it: the Bedrock Clogs aren’t going to win any beauty contests. They may look strange when you first see them, but they become surprisingly easy to appreciate once you start wearing them.
They’re not a traditional hiking sandal, but they offer a similar open, casual spirit while adding more coverage for cooler weather. Like the Bedrock sandals, the clogs use a zero-drop design. The main difference is the added toe coverage and rear ankle strap.
The traction is good enough for short hikes, while the casual design makes them especially useful around town. They’re also a great option after a long hiking day when you want to get out of your boots or trail shoes.
For example, after a 10-mile hike, you could easily throw these on for a relaxed two-mile sunset walk without reaching for your heavier hiking footwear.
They’re best viewed as a versatile trail-to-town shoe rather than a replacement for a dedicated hiking sandal.
Best for: Casual wear, short hikes, camp use, and trail-to-town versatility.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Sandals
The right hiking sandal comes down to where you hike and what you value most. Before buying, think about the type of terrain you’ll encounter, how much support you want, and whether you’ll regularly be around water.
Look for Good Traction
If your hikes include streams, wet rocks, or slippery surfaces, prioritize an outsole with dependable wet traction. A sandal that grips well can give you much more confidence when crossing a river or navigating slick rock.
Consider Foot Support
Minimalist sandals provide excellent ground feel but aren’t for everyone. If you prefer more structure, look at options such as the Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro or Kuru Tread Sandal.
Think About Toe Protection
Open-toe sandals are breathable, but closed-toe models offer more protection against rocks, roots, and underwater obstacles. The KEEN Newport H2 and Hyperport H2 are particularly useful if toe protection is important to you.
Don’t Ignore Weight
A heavy sandal can become annoying when you’re carrying it in a backpack all day. Minimalist options such as the Bedrock Cairn Evo Pro are much easier to pack, while more heavily cushioned and supportive models trade some weight for comfort and protection.
Match the Sandal to Your Adventure
There’s no single best hiking sandal for everyone. A lightweight minimalist sandal may be perfect for backpacking and casual trails, while a rugged Chaco may make more sense for rafting and wet, technical terrain.
Final Thoughts
After testing these sandals across different types of terrain, I wouldn’t recommend choosing based on brand name or appearance alone. The best hiking sandals are the ones that match your feet, your terrain, and the type of adventure you’re planning.
For minimalist hikers, the Bedrock Cairn Evo Pro is hard to beat for its lightweight design and ground feel. The Teva Hurricane XLT2 offers excellent value, while the Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro is better suited to hikers who need rugged support and wet-rock traction. If comfort and cushioning come first, the Teva Grandview Max is the standout choice.
For rocky water trails, the KEEN Newport H2 provides excellent toe protection, while the lighter Hyperport H2 makes more sense when packability matters. And if heel support is your priority, the Kuru Tread Sandal offers a much more structured approach.
Ultimately, focus on traction, comfort, fit, protection, and weight. Once you know what matters most for your hiking style, choosing the right pair becomes much easier.