If you’re in a rush and want to find out what the best hiking sandals for women are, we recommend the Bedrock Sandals Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals.
If you’re an avid trailblazer, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who longs for some comfort on an adventurous stroll, we totally get it. We all know that the right gear can make or break any outdoor hobby, and when it comes to hiking, your choice of footwear is paramount. That’s why we’re dedicating an entire article to the best hiking sandals for women, and if you’re tired of sacrificing style for functionality, we think you’ll like what’s in store for you.
In this article, we’ll be reviewing the following best hiking sandals for women:
- Teva Women’s Hurricane XLT2 Sandals – Editor’s Choice
- KEEN Women’s Newport H2 Sandals – Best Sandals with Closed Toe
- Xero Shoes Women’s Z-Trail EV Sandals – Lightest Hiking Sandals
- Astral Women’s PFD Sandals – Best Sandals for Water
- Chaco Women’s Z/Cloud 2 Sandals – Best Bang for Your Buck
- Birkenstock Women’s Sahara Sandals – Best Sandals to Wear with Socks
- Teva Women’s Tirra Sandals – Most Secure Sandals
- Bedrock Sandals Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals – Best Overall
Best Hiking Sandals for Women – Reviewed
Editor’s Choice
A nicely rounded option, the Teva Hurricanes are great for general use, offering more than enough adjustability, durability, and comfort for the average wearer.
The Teva Hurricanes are an incredibly popular pair of women’s hiking sandals, and it’s not hard to see why. Not only will they feel good on your feet, but they’re also very durable, able to withstand a significant beating regardless of where you’re hiking.
Made using recycled polyester, the uppers are comfortable and quick-drying, allowing you to tackle river crossings and rainstorms with ease. I’ve noticed that the straps can be a little stiff when you get them out of the box, but that’s nothing that a little breaking in won’t fix. The overall design of the straps ensures a secure fit, preventing your feet from sliding around, chafing, and creating blisters.
Altogether, the sandals weigh about a pound, with most of that weight coming in the form of the rubber outsole. It’s a highly durable material that resists abrasions, while providing a solid amount of grippiness and traction. Which is to say, if you’re concerned about losing your balance on wet and muddy trails, you’ll definitely want to invest in something like the Teva Hurricanes.
Pros:
– Great traction
– Quick-drying
– Lightweight
– Durable
– Secure fit
Cons:
– Straps are initially stiff and uncomfortable
Best Sandals with Closed Toe
Keen has devloped a reputation for creating reliable outdoor products, and the Newport sandals are no different, offering superior security, comfort, and protection for all types of hiking trails.
One of the few pairs of hiking sandals for women with a closed toe, the Keen Newport sandals are perfect when you’re worried about damaging your tootsies. Covered with rubber, you won’t have to worry about getting rocks in uncomfortable places, random snakebites will be less of a concern, and you’ll have a little more protection from the sun. And most importantly, you get all of those things without giving up the breathability and waterproofing that you’d expect to find in any pair of hiking sandals.
As someone who’s owned more than few pairs of Keens in my life, I can attest to both their durability and comfort. However, since I’m not a woman, I’ll have to defer to my wife on this one, since her go-to pair of outdoor shoes are also Keen. After two years of very intense use, they still look practically brand new, aside from some wear and tear on the tread. However, losing tread comes with the territory, regardless of the type of shoe that you’re getting, so it’s not the best indicator of durability and longevity.
I’ve always liked the bungee closure system on Keens, as it seems like a great way to get a consistently snug fit every time you put them on. There are also fewer moving parts to worry about, which means there aren’t as many opportunities for something to get damaged. And the great thing about Keens is that they’re durable and comfortable enough for intense hiking, but they’re stylish and versatile enough for you to wear them in your day-to-day life as well.
Pros:
– Comfortable
– Fit great
– Work well in water
– Durable
– Suitable for activities on and off the trail
Cons:
– Not super great for wide feet
Lightest Hiking Sandals
By far the lightest hiking sandals for women in this review, the Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV sandals are incredibly versatile and easy to get on and off, though they are a little lacking in durability.
The Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV sandals will almost make you feel like you aren’t even wearing shoes. As the lightest pair in this review, both of them together only weigh half a pound, so you’ll barely even notice them on your feet. On top of that, the highly flexible sole lets your feet bend naturally, almost making it feel like you’re walking around barefoot.
But the reduction in weight and material doesn’t mean corners were cut with durability and comfort. Sure, they’re not going to last as long as the Keen Newport sandals mentioned above, but they still hold up surprisingly well considering how little there is to them.
In terms of foot closure, all of the straps are connected and easily adjustable, so you don’t have to worry about how they’re going to fit. The back strap is separate from the rest, though, and it’s secured using velcro. It’s a handy feature to have when you want to slip the sandals off without undoing all of the straps on the top of your foot. I also appreciate the fact that the straps don’t seem to rub, and they require very little breaking in before you can start using them more aggressively.
At the end of the day, these aren’t sandals that I would recommend for long hikes, since they aren’t built as tough as Keen or Teva. However, for some like hiking, time at the beach, and everyday use, you’ll have a hard time finding something more comfortable than the Z-Trail EV.
Pros:
– Ultra-light
– Comfortable
– Adjustable straps
– Feels like you’re walking barefoot
– Velcro back strap
Cons:
– A little lacking in durability
Best Sandals for Water
Inspired by Japanese footwear, the Astral PFD sandals were built with flotation devices in mind, making them a solid choice for watersports and other wet environments.
Though designed for watersports, the Astral PFD sandals are still a solid choice for hiking adventures as well. PFD stands for personal flotation device, so you can guess what they were meant for; however, they also work perfectly well on land, giving you a great option for multi-terrain use.
The webbing and adjustable straps help give you a secure and natural fit that feels like you’re wearing a “real” shoe. I also appreciate the adjustable heel strap, which really helps you zone in on that perfect fit. They do take some breaking in, and can be a little uncomfortable at first, but once you’ve had a chance to walk around in them for a few days, they’ll fit your feet like a glove.
That being said, I wouldn’t say these are the ideal pair of sandals for women with wide feet. Though there is some adjustability with the straps, there’s not enough to make them a good fit if your feet are on the wider end of the spectrum. Still, if your feet are average or slightly narrow, you’ll love wearing the PFDs, once they’ve had a chance to conform to your foot structure.
Pros:
– Great in the water
– Adjustable straps, including heel strap
– Very secure fit
– Versatile
– Nice price
Cons:
– A little too narrow for wide feet
Best Bang for Your Buck
With a well-cushioned footbed and highly adjustable straps, the Chaco Z/Cloud 2 sandals find that perfect balance between comfort and functionality.
Out of all the sandals listed in this review, I believe that Chaco put a great deal of thought and effort into creating a comfortable product. The Z/Cloud 2 sandals live up to their name, providing a polyurethane footbed that literally feels like you’re walking on a cloud. It’s no surprise that it’s affectionately referred to as “the luvseat,” and it’s even podiatrist certified for that extra layer of trustworthiness.
All of the straps are adjustable, and since they’re connected under the sole, you can tighten or loosen them with a great deal of accuracy. The customizability of the straps is one place where the Z/Clouds really shine, but if you’re having trouble figuring out how they work, don’t worry: the sandals come with detailed instructions.
Of course, there will be some light rubbing from the straps, which can be a little uncomfortable at first. However, I find that this is a grievance common to (almost) all strap-closure sandals, so it’s just a matter of breaking them in and letting your feet adapt. As long as you’re able to get the proper size, I really don’t believe you’ll experience any pain or blisters from wearing these Chacos for extended periods of time.
Pros:
– Comfortable
– Highly adjustable
– Come with instructions for use
– Versatile
– Nice color options
Cons:
– Toe strap will occasionally tighten on its own
Best Sandals to Wear with Socks
Easy to slip on and off, the Birkenstock Saraha sandals are great to wear with socks, since there isn’t a toe strap to work around. You also get the added protection of a rim around the sandal, blocking most rocks and other debris.
A cursory glance at the Birkenstock Sahara sandals might make you think they won’t stay on your feet very well, due to the lack of a back strap. However, while I initially felt the same way, I can assure you that they’re secure enough for hiking or any other outdoor activity you had planned.
Since there’s no toe strap, you can easily wear the Saharas with regular socks. That added cushion will also act as a barrier between your foot and the top straps, preventing some of the chafing that’s bound to happen when you’re first breaking them in. And while we’re talking about foot protection, these sandals come with a protective lip that wraps around the entire shoe. While not a perfect system, it does prevent some rocks and trail debris from entering into the shoes, keeping your feet as comfortable as possible.
The footbeds provide superior support, and the contouring will help the sandals fit your feet like a glove. At the same time, I have found that the rubber sole is rather hard, and can be a little uncomfortable for sensitive feet. It’s quite grippy, though, giving you more than enough traction for most hikes.
Pros:
– Easy to slip on and off
– Has a lip for added protection
– Adjustable
– Good traction
– Fairly comfortable
Cons:
– The sizing is a little off
Most Secure Sandals
With a strap that wraps around the entire ankle, the Tera Tirra sandals are some of the most secure that you’ll find, providing a good amount of support and functionality in wet conditions.
Despite being one of the heaviest pair of hiking sandals for women in this review, the Teva Tirra won’t be dragging you down on your outdoor adventures. Designed to be that perfect pairing of femininity and functionality, the Tirra sandals are suitable for almost any venue, including most hiking trails and casual events with friends. And while the weight is starting to get up there, you’ll be glad to have the comfort and durability that comes with it.
These sandals come with a thorough closure system, with straps that wrap around your ankle, along with others that hug your instep. This provides an exceptionally secure fit, and since the straps are backed with Neoprene, they’re one of the more comfortable options as well. You don’t have to worry too much about sizing either, since the straps are highly adjustable and can fit most foot types.
The Tirras hold up well in wet conditions, and they tend to dry quickly, which helps with cleanliness and blister prevention. They also offer great support and a solid amount of traction, which works well for people with certain foot conditions and/or a hard time balancing on slippery and uneven terrain. I have noticed that the back strap likes to rub and create some chafing, but it usually goes away after you’ve had a chance to break the sandals in a little bit.
Pros:
– Secure
– Adjustable straps
– Work great in wet conditions
– Dry quickly
– Good support
Cons:
– Back strap likes to rub a little
Best Overall
Durable, minimalistic, and shockingly comfortable, the Bedrock Cairn sandals do the best at checking the most boxes for women looking for their next pair of hiking sandals.
Our only unisex option in this review, the Bedrock Cairn 3D sandals are a great hiking option for any adult. The shoes sport a flat footbed that provides minimal arch support, in the hopes of creating a more “natural” effect. While I can understand and appreciate the design choice (especially as a minimalist myself), I also recognize that some of you have foot problems that require a decent amount of support. So, bear that in mind before you pull the trigger on the Carins.
However, if you don’t suffer from any podiatry problems, then I think you’ll find that these sandals are far more comfortable than expected. They work great as everyday shoes, but they also perform well in a hiking environment, providing enough traction and durability to see you through most trails. Despite the minimal amount of material put into them, I haven’t noticed any problems with the tread delaminating or experiencing excessive wear and tear.
The strap system is great, giving you more than enough customization ability to get the perfect fit. I would like to see a little more padding on the inside of the straps, but compared to some of the other options in this review, they’ll leave your feet stuck on cloud 9. It’s worth noting that the Cairns run small, so I’d recommend looking closely at Bedrock’s sizing guide. More often than not, I’ve found that women need to go up a full size from their regular shoe size in order to get the fit just right.
Pros:
– Super comfortable
– Minimalistic
– Great in water
– Works on the trail and off
– Very durable
– Easy to adjust
Cons:
– Sizes run small
Best Hiking Sandals for Women – Buyer’s Guide
Looking for the best pair of hiking sandals? I can understand why, since they provide more room for your toes to stretch out than a traditional pair of shoes or boots. You also get the added bonus of ventilation, which can help you stay comfortable in high heat locations.
However, like any outdoor gear, there are some brands and products that do it better than others. So next time you’re ready to buy a pair of hiking sandals, make sure you keep these points in mind:
Traction
Whether you’re looking for the best hiking sandals or just a regular set of footwear, you’re probably going to check the traction before you pull out your credit card. But especially when you’re hiking, slippery rocks and muddy ground can spell disaster if you’re unsteady on your feet, potentially leading to broken bones, sprained tendons, or a concussion.
So, what exactly makes a hiking sandal excel in traction? First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the outsole. This is the part of the shoe that touches the ground, and ideally, it will be made of high-quality rubber or a rubber compound. These materials are known for their exceptional grip and resistance to wear and tear, which is exactly what you want to have when you’re trying to tackle various surfaces.
On top of the material itself, you should keep an eye out for sandals with multi-directional lugs on their outsole. You know those little bumps and ridges that resemble tire treads? These cleverly designed lugs provide maximum traction, helping you maintain stability whether you’re going uphill, downhill, or facing tricky, rocky paths.
Sizing
There’s nothing worse than messing up your shoe size. And finding the perfect size can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re buying online and can’t try them on before purchasing. So, to help you get as close as possible, here are a few tips to finding the perfectly sized pair of sandals:
Consider Your Activity: Think about the type of hiking you’ll be doing. If you plan on tackling rugged terrains and steep trails, you might want a snugger fit to keep your feet secure and prevent blisters. On the other hand, if you’ll be doing more relaxed walks, a slightly looser fit might be more comfortable on your feet in the long-term.
Adjustable Straps: Many hiking sandals come with adjustable straps or a bungee cord system, allowing you to customize the fit according to your preference. The flexibility is convenient for those of you who have feet that are bigger or smaller than average, especially if you like the style but not the initial fit.
Toe Space: Though not as big of a problem with sandals, you’ll still want to make sure there’s enough room for your toes to wiggle comfortably. Your feet might swell a bit during longer hikes, so having a little extra space can prevent discomfort.
Consider Sock Compatibility: If you plan on wearing socks with your sandals, it’s good to take that into consideration when choosing your shoe size. The additional bulk from you sock will make your sandals feel tighter, so it might be worth sizing up to accommodate the extra material.
Break-In Period
While sandals require less break-in time than other types of shoes, there’s just no getting around this process. They’ll be a little stiff and unfamiliar when you first start using them, and it’s possible that you’ll experience some hot spots on your first couple of hikes. However, using these tips, you can get just about any pair of sandals to fit your feet like a glove in no time.
Start Slow: When you first get your new sandals, don’t jump headfirst into a challenging, long-distance hike right off the bat. You’ll probably be okay for the first mile or two, but once you get beyond that threshold, I can almost guarantee you’ll end the day with a few blisters. Start with some shorter walks around your neighborhood or local park to give your feet a chance to adjust, while letting the sandals mold to your unique foot shape.
Wear Socks: I know, I know… Sandals and socks might sound like an odd combo, but for hiking, it’s a lot more common than you might expect. You’ll want to opt for a thin pair of moisture-wicking hiking socks, both during the break-in period and afterward. This prevents excessive rubbing and reduces the risk of blisters while still allowing your feet to breathe.
Wear Them Around the House: My mom likes to wear sandals around the house for the added support, and it’s a great way to break in your new pair at the same time. Once they start to get uncomfortable, you can always take them off right away, which is a luxury that you won’t experience on the trail.
Listen to Your Feet: Your feet are wise creatures, and they’ll tell you how they feel. If you notice any hotspots or discomfort in specific areas, pay attention. It might mean you need to adjust the fit or try a different style of hiking sandals altogether.
Remember, every foot is unique, so the break-in period varies from person to person. Some lucky hikers may feel like their sandals were custom-made for them right from the start, while others might need a little more patience.
Exposed Toes
Having your toes exposed is probably one of the main reasons why you’re looking at hiking sandals in the first place (and if it’s not, it should be!) The extra ventilation keeps your feet from getting too hot and sweaty, and the open toes give your tootsies some extra space to spread out. However, despite all of the benefits, there are few shortcomings to watch out for as well.
Sunburn. We don’t often think about putting sunscreen on our feet, but it’s a habit you’ll have to pick up when you’re wearing sandals. If you’re wearing socks, you won’t have to worry as much, but if you’re planning to go barefoot, you’ll definitely want to give your skin some protection against that UV radiation.
Snakes. Depending on where you are in the world, snakebites can be a very real concern. Regardless of your footwear, this is a danger that you should always be on guard against, but even more so when you’re toes are completely exposed to any potential attack. Snakes don’t want to interact with you any more than you want to interact with them, so give them a wide berth and watch where you’re stepping!
Rocks. If you’ve never experienced the pain of squishing your toes under a rock or getting a jagged stone under your heel, I hope you never do. Always step carefully when you’re in an area with a lot of loose rocks to prevent inury and discomfort.
Why Trust US?
At Untamed Space, we’re passionate about helping you have the best camping experience possible. Our team of experts have experience camping and backpacking all over the world, allowing them to provide insightful and relevant content to guide you in your outdoor pursuits.
All of our reviews are based on a combination of firsthand experience, extensive research, and an analysis of customer feedback. We are an independent website and do not receive payments or incentives from manufacturers to promote their products, and we continuously update our content to provide new information based on product availability. Wherever you are in your journey, whatever gear you’re searching for, you can be sure to find unbiased and up-to-date reviews for all of your needs.
FAQ
Are Hiking Sandals Waterproof?
Yes, many hiking sandals for women are designed to be waterproof. They often feature quick-drying properties as well, making them ideal for river crossings, canyoning, or hiking in wet conditions. Just make sure you check the product specifications to ensure they are suitable for water use.
How Do I Clean My Hiking Sandals?
To clean your hiking sandals (especially after a muddy adventure), start by removing any loose dirt with a soft brush. Then, gently wash them with mild soap and water, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals that might damage the materials. Allow them to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight, to maintain their shape and integrity.
Can Hiking Sandals Be Used for Everyday Wear?
Many hiking sandals for women come with stylish designs that make them suitable for everyday casual wear too. They provide comfort and versatility, making them a practical choice for both outdoor adventures and daily activities. You can easily transition from the trail to the city while maintaining a fashionable look.
Final Thoughts
In the world of outdoor adventures, finding the best hiking sandals for women can make all the difference between a strenuous stroll and an unforgettable trek. And among the top contenders, one name that consistently stood out to us was the Bedrock Sandals Cairn 3D Adventure Sandals. These sandals embody everything a hiking enthusiast could ever want when it comes to footwear, including a thoughtful blend of comfort, resilience, and versatility. With their ergonomic design, durable materials, and superior traction, the Cairns are primed to be your feet’s best friends on the trails.
