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If you’re spending time outdoors walking, hiking, or wading through lakes this summer, check out our list of top hiking sandals—they won’t let you down!
Womens Hiking Sandals
Table Of Contents
Hiking sandals are a popular shoe for women who plan to do a lot of walking, hiking and swimming during an adventure trip—either locally or elsewhere. Sometimes bringing along hiking sandals in tandem with boots can give you other shoe options. Alternatively, you may want to leave the hiking boots at home and just stick to sandals.
You may need to wear something on your feet in a lake or river, which means you’ll not only need a shoe that will allow your feet to breathe, but also something that will dry quickly, then adventure sandals are an awesome choice.
Besides the breathability, hiking sandals are especially designed for long periods of walking and if they’re waterproof, they transition well from walking cobblestone streets to hitting rougher terrain. Some can even be paired with denim shorts or skorts for a casual, summer vibe that goes from trail to hanging out!
Let’s start with figuring out how to choose the best ones.
How to Choose Comfortable Hiking Sandals
When it comes to choosing the shoes that fit the bill for your trip, there are a number of factors you should consider before you buy:
- Where you’re going – Are hiking sandals the right shoe for where you’re going? If you’re looking to climb rough terrain, you’ll need a stronger shoe, but for walks, light hikes and water, these comfortable, efficient sandals will fit the bill.
- What you’re carrying – If you’re bringing heavy gear, you’ll need a heavy shoe to give you the proper support, but if you’re lugging a light backpack, hiking sandals will keep you comfy and light on your feet throughout your trip.
- If you need additional arch support and shock resistance – Hiking sandals differ from regular sandals in that they are shaped to your feet and have additional padding, made with EVA/foam insoles, which is necessary for comfort and shock absorption while on long walks and hikes. Also, look for soles like Vibram that are sturdy.
- If they fit comfortably for every occasion – Your feet may swell in hotter temps, or in colder climates you may need socks, so you’ll need straps that you can instantly and easily adjust on the trail for the best fit possible.
- If they’re waterproof – You may hike through water or even wear your sandals while swimming, so make sure the ones you choose have rubber soles, synthetic uppers, and are quick to dry.
Overall, the best womens hiking sandals are flexible in both wet and dry situations, and remain comfortable, no matter where and how long you decide to wear them. Unfortunately, many manufacturers forget about style when designing a shoe for function, so we’ve searched for a balance of both.
Now take a gander at this list of hiking sandals for women that are not only comfortable, but darn cute!
These Are The Best Hiking Sandals Womens Brands
Shop: Dicks Sporting Goods | Dillards | The Walking Company
Keen Rose Closed Toe Sandals with Good Arch Support
Readers say Keen Rose sandals fit like a dream in terms of design, comfort, and function. With their closed-toe, you’ll be equally ready for a mountain hike, a day on the water, or a stroll around the ancient ruins of a Cambodian temple.
They come in multiple colors and go with any outfit, from a summer dress to a simple tee and shorts. Overall, they’re sturdy and lightweight, which makes them a necessity for trips that are more nature-oriented.
Shop: Chaco
Chaco Z/1 Classic Athletic Sandal (Medium and Wide Sizes Available)
The Chaco Z/1 is a rubber-soled shoe that is extremely well made, comfortable, sturdy, and fast-drying. Take a pair on long summer hikes, country walks, and wear them for watery fun. These are the best sandals for hiking—they will last for years and keep you secure and comfortable for as long as you wear them.
Other styles that are just as popular are the Z/Cloud 2 Sandal and ZX2 Classic Sport Sandal!
Shop: Teva
Teva Tirra Wide Width Hiking Sandal
Teva Tirra sandals allow you to walk for hours without the unwanted consequences of sore and sweaty feet. They help keep your tootsies cool and comfortable, as well as offer a good level of traction to support you on more uneven paths. Coming in a variety of colors, they look great too!
If you’re looking for a classic pair, this Teva Original Universal sandal is a comfortable quick-drying hiking sandal which is also perfect for hiking.
Shop: DSW | The Walking Company
ABEO Oasis Sport Slingback Sandal
For those seeking a sandal that combines sport and style, the ABEO Oasis Sport Sandal is a perfect choice. Built for ultimate comfort, this sandal features a contoured footbed with custom orthotic support, making it a great choice for long walks or outdoor adventures.
The adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, while the durable rubber outsole provides excellent traction on various surfaces.
Shop: Dick’s Sporting Goods | Duluth Trading Company
Keen Whisper Comfortable Sport Sandals
Keen Whisper sandals are a must if you enjoy going on outdoor adventures climbing, hiking and swimming in warm to hot weather. They’re unbelievably secure and comfortable, and offer a fantastic grip for water-based activities and strolling over cobblestones on old world city streets.
Although they have a style similar to that of a hiking boot, they’re perfect for more challenging hikes, pack easily, and are a lot more breathable. Readers say they would travel just about anywhere with this shoe, which looks cute with almost any outfit.
These water shoes are perfect for every outdoor adventures according to TFG readers!
Shop: Orthofeet
Orthofeet Venice Backstrap Dressy Sport Sandal
For those seeking a stylish and supportive sandal, the Orthofeet Venice Brown Sandal is an excellent option. Designed with orthotic-friendly features, it offers exceptional arch support, cushioning, and stability. Perfect for all-day wear, this sandal includes a soft, padded collar and adjustable straps to ensure a secure, customized fit.
The lightweight sole provides superior shock absorption, while the durable rubber outsole offers traction on a variety of surfaces. Whether you’re strolling around town or enjoying a scenic walk, the Venice Brown Sandal is a great blend of comfort, style, and support.
Shop: Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer Stine Amphib Lightweight Hiking Sandal
If you’re looking for versatile footwear that transitions effortlessly from land to water, the Eddie Bauer Stine Amphib are an excellent choice. These shoes are designed for both comfort and performance, featuring a quick-drying, breathable mesh upper and a cushioned footbed to support long days of exploration.
The durable rubber outsole provides excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces, making them ideal for everything from kayaking to hiking. With an adjustable strap for a customizable fit, these amphibious shoes offer both practicality and style, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Shop: Dicks Sporting Goods | The Walking Company
Keen Newport H2 Water Sandal
Keen does it again with the comfortable, waterproof Newport H2, which comes in plenty of colors. These long-lasting shoes—readers say they’ve had theirs over a decade—retain their shape and support throughout their life. These are durable, breathable sandals that you can wear to hike long miles over 90°F days, and your feet will still thank you!
ECCO Offroad Roam Hiking Outdoor Sandal
For those seeking a rugged yet stylish outdoor sandal, the ECCO Offroad Roam Sandal is a fantastic choice. These sandals offer excellent support with their adjustable straps and anatomically correct footbed. Designed to withstand outdoor adventures, they feature a durable rubber outsole for reliable traction, while the cushioned midsole provides comfort for all-day wear.
Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or just exploring, these sandals combine practicality with a sleek, modern look. The breathable upper ensures your feet stay cool and comfortable, making the ECCO Offroad Roam Sandal perfect for any outdoor activity.
Here are even more of our readers favorite Ecco styles including their recommendations for sandals, sneakers, and flats.
Shop: Skechers
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0 Womens Sport Sandal
For a sandal that delivers both comfort and style, the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0 sandals is a great pick. Designed with Skechers’ Arch Fit technology, these sandals provide optimal support, helping to improve your walking posture and relieve foot pressure.
The cushioned insole offers a soft, responsive feel, making them ideal for long walks or standing for extended periods. With a sleek, athletic design and adjustable straps, these sandals fit comfortably and securely. Whether you’re strolling through town or taking a scenic walk, the Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0 Sandal ensures you stay comfortable every step of the way.
Check out this ultimate packing list for trekking!
Shop: Nordstrom | Teva | Dick’s Sporting Goods
Teva Verra Comfort Sandals
These Teva Verra sandals are a cool, minimalist style but the rubber sole is where all the power is due to the EVA material. It’s cushiony, and has moisture wicking and is water-resistant so your feet stay odor-free and comfy.
The textured nylon and criss-cross design won’t cut into your feet so you can keep going all day on a National Park trail to dinner at the campsite.
Columbia Hiking Sandals
For those who enjoy outdoor adventures but want comfort and durability, this Columbia hiking sandal is a solid choice. Designed with a rugged, outdoor-ready construction, these sandals feature a cushioned footbed for all-day comfort, as well as a durable rubber outsole with superior traction to keep you steady on various terrains.
The adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, while the stylish design makes them perfect for both hiking trails and casual outings. Whether you’re trekking through nature or just enjoying a sunny day, the Columbia Women’s Sandal offers support and comfort every step of the way.
Remember—these shoes are meant for hiking, climbing, swimming, and other fun, outdoor adventures. They’re not necessarily for regular travel. If you need shoes for non-outdoor trips, please check out some of the options in this post.
How to Pack Hiking Sandals
Maybe you want to pack your sandals after wearing them on the plane or choose to wear a different pair home, start by selecting a container such as a shoe bag or a packing cube, then pack according to your type of luggage. See more in the video below.
Watch this video to start learning how to organize with packing cubes!
Whether you have a front loading or top loading backpack, it’s crucial to put your shoes first, at the bottom. If you’re planning to pack shoes in a rolling carry-on, remember that it stands sideways, so it’s important to note how it functions when it is upright. Most often, your shoes will need to be packed close to the wheels, so that the luggage maintains its balance in transit.
What are the best hiking sandals you’ve worn on your adventures? Share with us below!
For more travel shoes, please read:
- Most Cute and Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Ultimate Guide to the Best Travel Shoes for Women
- Best Waterproof Sneakers to Keep You Dry In a Downpour
- Comfortable Walking Sandals
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Thank for the helpful guide.
I am so glad I bought the Keen Rose sandals – they are so versatile and so comfortable – thanks for the great recommendation!
Great article! I’m going to try out some of the Keens mentioned based on the advice here.
Any shoe that causes a blister would be a go back for me! I realize that leather might be softer after a while but I don’t trust shoes that need to be broken in. My mom taught me to wear my shoes around the house for a day before I commit to them. If there are issues they go back.
I think I will try the Merrill .. I love their hiking shoes and boots!
Great advice about trying out a shoe to see if it would work!
Great suggestions for footwear. I swear by Ecco sandals and trainers. They never let me down for comfort and support.
Great suggestions for camping and hiking water type shoes. The Walking Company also has great options with a metatarsal option. May seem insignificant to some, but those of us with foot issues value this option in shoes. Learned so many tricks over the years to pack as a minimalist. Thanks Alex for creating this resource!
Hi there, I actually found these ABEO’s years ago, and Teva was the first to come out with the type that are like Tennies, but with open areas. I too travel very light, and often have just one pair of shoes…THE ONES ABOVE! I found that if I wear two pairs of light to med. Weight wool socks, my feet don’t get cold! No kidding, it works for me.
Connie
Chacos for the win! I have forefoot varus and chronic sesamoiditis in my left foot, and these sandals have been lifesavers. The arch support is sublime. They make a version without the toe strap, but I prefer the extra stability with it. I love how they are fully adjustable, and you can throw them in the washer (but not the dryer and don’t dry them in full sun) when needed!
I find your shoe recommendations so helpful. These are investment pieces for me so am glad to have guidance making these purchases. I’ve loved my keen hiking boots for years and am about to add the keen whisper to my repertoire.
Thank you for all your shoe blogs. I have problem feet and have often referred to your blogs for advice. Of course, some shoes work better for me than others. However, I have always had good luck with your recommendations. I find Chaco’s and Ecco Yucatán Outdoor Sandals work well for me. I will be trying Dr. Schools Andrew Fisherman Sandals next.
Keen Rose for the win! Super comfortable for all day walking in a variety of terrain and climate. Cute enough to wear with a casual skirt. My fave!
My Keen water sandals are indispensable especially when my Golden Retriever decides it time to romp through the marshes of outer Cape Cod! I have lost other so called water sandals there – sucked right off my foot one year. Shout-out to Teva as well for good long lasting sandals – great for beach walking or shopping in Provincetown.
Great article, I’m going to try a pair of the Teva Sandles next. My go to has been the Merrell Sandspur, I have loved them so much I purchased a second pair. I travel alot and have used them to hike in Yellowstone, Tetons and a number of other National parks However, the last pair got wet when crossing a stream and now they smell dreadful, I’m so disappointed. Maybe I need to contact Merrell to find out why.
Hi Shirley, we are so pleased you enjoyed the article! ?
Wow, I am really shocked to hear that. Merrell sandals are one of our readers top picks. ?
Once you’ve tried out the Teva sandals we would love to hear your feedback!
I checked out this article because I walk a lot, and now that covid lockdowns are easing, I’m back to more walking. I cannot say too many good things about the Keen sandals (I also have a pair of the Teva Tirras, which are lovely for when I’m planning on being a bit fancier). It’s worth noting that they were recommended by my massage therapist, who works through a physiotherapy office and is married to a footwear expert–a good hiking shoe should be actively good for your feet, and could (and maybe should) also become the basis of a summer wardrobe if you do walking in the city. I don’t travel a lot but have started coming to this site for practical recommendations for things that will be comfortable beyond travel.
I’d happily try any of the shoes on this list, and in general recommend that a good shoe come with the recommendation of a healthcare provider who sees what bad shoes can do to you.
Hi Shannon, thank you so much for sharing this, we are so pleased you are finding the blog helpful!!! ?