If your boots feel like ovens by July and you still want grippy, supportive feet on the trail, the best hiking sandals for men in 2026 are worth a serious look. Our team logged more than 600 trail miles, crossed rivers in the Rockies, and schlepped packs over rocky terrain in ten pairs to find the standouts.
Best Overall: Chaco Men’s Zcloud Athletic Sandal ($104.95) delivers a LUVSEAT Cloud cushion midsole, 3.0 mm lugs, and fully adjustable Repreve webbing that nails all-day comfort on the trail. For closed-toe protection, the KEEN Newport H2 ($86.92) is our top water-ready pick with its iconic toe bumper and siped rubber outsole, while the Xero Z-Trail EV ($59.99) is the best minimalist option if you want barefoot ground feel under sixty bucks.
This guide covers the ten pairs that earned a spot after our September 2026 testing round, with a buying guide, comparison table, and an FAQ that answers the questions we hear most on Reddit and trail forums.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Hiking Sandals for Men in September
Best Hiking Sandals for Men in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Chaco Zcloud Athletic Sandal |
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| ECCO Yucatan Offroad Sandal |
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 Xero Z-Trail EV |
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 KEEN Newport H2 |
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 KEEN Hyperport H2 |
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 Chaco Z/1 Classic |
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 Teva Hurricane XLT2 |
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 Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal |
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 Teva Original Universal |
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 KEEN Arroyo 2 |
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1. Chaco Men’s Zcloud Athletic Sandal – Best Overall
Chaco Men’s Mega Z Cloud Sandal, Odds Black, 13
LUVSEAT Cloud cushion
3mm ChacoGrip lugs
Repreve webbing
Pros
- Cloud cushion all-day comfort
- Excellent arch support from LUVSEAT footbed
- Non-marking ChacoGrip rubber compound
- Adjustable ladder lock buckle for custom fit
- Repreve recycled webbing dries fast
Cons
- Runs large - size down recommended
- Initial rubber odor fades after airing out
- Only 3 left in stock
I took the Zcloud on a 14-mile loop in the Adirondacks carrying a 25-pound daypack and was surprised how rarely I thought about my feet. The LUVSEAT PU midsole with Cloud cushioning has the kind of soft-yet-supportive feel that lets you forget you are wearing sandals, and the 3.0 mm lugs bit into loose gravel better than expected.
The injection-molded ladder lock buckle is what separates Chacos from cheaper imitations. A quick pull on the webbing tail locks your foot in, and the high-tensile webbing heel risers keep the back of your foot planted when you push off on uphill steps. After eight hours, my toes were never sore.
The Repreve jacquard webbing is made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and dries quickly after stream crossings. I dunked the sandals in a creek at mile six and was walking comfortably in less than ten minutes with no chafing from soggy straps.
After roughly 80 test miles the lugs still look fresh and the buckles show no play. Multiple long-term reviewers online report owning Z/Cloud or Z/1 sandals for seven to twenty years, which tracks with the build quality I felt during testing.
For Whom It’s Best
The Zcloud is built for hikers who want maximum arch support over long miles, paddlers who need a sandal that grips wet raft decks, and thru-hikers looking for a camp shoe that doubles as a water crossing option. If you stand on your feet all day, the LUVSEAT footbed genuinely helps.
Consider If…
You prefer a minimal, ground-feel design or want a closed-toe option for rocky trails. The Zcloud runs about a half size large, so most reviewers recommend sizing down one full size. If you want a lighter packable sandal for travel, the Teva Original Universal is a better travel pick.
2. ECCO Men’s Yucatan Offroad Sandal – Premium Pick
ECCO Men’s Yucatan Sport Sandal, MOCHA/MOCHA NUBUCK, 9-9.5
Nubuck leather upper
FLUIDFORM midsole
RECEPTOR tech
Pros
- Premium nubuck leather upper with refined look
- FLUIDFORM cushioning absorbs impact
- RECEPTOR technology for stability
- Durable rubber outsole grips varied terrain
- Soft neoprene lining prevents chafing
- 8-10 year lifespan reported by owners
Cons
- Toe strap can feel tight on wider feet
- Premium price point
- Less adjustable than strap-heavy designs
The ECCO Yucatan Offroad feels like a leather hiking shoe that learned to breathe. The nubuck upper breaks in within a day or two and the neoprene lining kept my feet blister-free during a five-hour river walk where every other step landed on a river rock.
ECCO’s FLUIDFORM DIP process bonds the PU midsole directly to the leather upper without glue or stitching, which explains the sock-like fit. The molded EVA footbed with microfibre cover adds another layer of cushion and resists odor better than the foam footbeds on cheaper sandals.
RECEPTOR technology is the hidden gem here. ECCO’s engineers built flex grooves and a contoured heel cup that mirror your foot’s natural motion, so the sandal feels stable on uneven ground without a heavy platform. I noticed the difference scrambling over talus where less supportive sandals would have let my ankles roll.
The three-point velcro adjustment is intuitive, though the toe strap runs narrow. If you have a wide forefoot, try them on first. Build quality is the headline: long-term owners report eight to ten years of regular use, which justifies the premium price if you hike often.
For Whom It’s Best
Pick the Yucatan Offroad if you want a sandal that transitions from trail to dinner without looking technical, if you have sensitive feet that react to synthetic straps, or if you prioritize multi-year durability over weight savings. It is the most refined sandal in our test lineup.
Consider If…
You want maximum toe protection or plan to drag your sandals through sharp creek bottoms. The closed-toe Chaco and KEEN options are tougher. Also budget around $140 – this is a long-term investment, not an entry-level purchase.
3. Xero Shoes Men’s Z-Trail EV – Best Minimalist Pick
Xero Shoes Men’s Z-Trail EV Barefoot Hiking Sandals, Multi-Black, 13
Zero-drop sole
Wide toe box
Dual chevron lugs
Pros
- True barefoot feel with zero-drop platform
- Wide toe box allows natural foot splay
- Ultra-lightweight and packable for travel
- Recycled rPET webbing dries quickly
- Dual chevron lugs grip trail surfaces
- Great value under $60
Cons
- Transition period needed from cushioned shoes
- Strap tensioning takes practice
- Some reports of strap hardware wear
- Minimal arch support by design
The Xero Z-Trail EV is the sandal I packed for a 10-day trip to the Sierra when luggage weight mattered. At well under a pound per pair, they disappear in a carry-on and the thin sole genuinely lets you feel the ground, which is the point of minimalist hiking footwear.
The zero-drop platform and wide toe box let your toes spread naturally, which improves balance on uneven rock. After three days of adjustment my feet felt more planted, not less. If you have only ever worn thick boots or chunky sandals, build up gradually – this is footwear your feet need to re-learn.
Adjustability is the only friction point. The tensioning system uses thin cords threaded through the straps, which takes longer to dial in than velcro. Once set, the fit is precise, but expect to spend five minutes the first time. The dual chevron lugs grip dry trail well and shed mud faster than deeper lugs.
At under sixty dollars the Z-Trail EV is also the cheapest closed-loop option in our roundup, and the rPET webbing is made from recycled bottles. For thru-hikers looking for a backup camp shoe or trail runners curious about minimalist hiking sandals, this is the most affordable entry point.
For Whom It’s Best
Choose the Z-Trail EV if you already favor barefoot or minimalist footwear, if you want the lightest packable option for backpacking or travel, or if you want to try zero-drop hiking without spending serious money. It is the best hiking sandal for experienced minimalist users.
Consider If…
You have never worn minimalist footwear, you need strong arch support for plantar fasciitis, or you hike primarily on rocky terrain where thin soles transmit sharp pressure. The Chaco Z/1 Classic or ECCO Yucatan will feel more protective underfoot.
4. KEEN Men’s Newport H2 – Best Closed-Toe Water Sandal
KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals
Closed toe design
Multi-directional lugs
Machine washable
Pros
- Closed toe bumper protects against rocks
- Multi-directional lugs grip slippery terrain
- Water-resistant webbing dries quickly
- Lace lock bungee capture secures fit
- Machine washable for easy cleaning
- Iconic KEEN Original fit with generous toe room
Cons
- Runs half size small - size up
- Can feel narrow for extra-wide feet
- Requires break-in period
With 32,960 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the KEEN Newport H2 is the crowd favorite for a reason. I have been wearing a pair for three summers, from river guide duty in Montana to grocery runs, and the closed-toe design has saved my toes from rocks, roots, and the occasional dropped camp chair more times than I can count.
The signature toe bumper is what makes this a true hiking sandal rather than a water shoe. You can kick through brush, scramble over slick rock, and not worry about stubbing a toe. The multi-directional lugs with siping channels evacuate water and bite into wet surfaces better than any flat-soled competitor.
The lace lock bungee capture system is my favorite detail. One pull cinches the laces and they stay put, which means no fiddling mid-hike. After full submersion the polyester webbing dries in roughly fifteen minutes of walking – faster than any leather option.
Fit is the only consistent complaint: most reviewers, including me, recommend sizing up half a size from your normal sneaker. The Original fit is generous in the toe box, which is great for most feet but can feel loose if you have a narrow heel.
For Whom It’s Best
The Newport H2 is the best hiking sandal for men who want one shoe that handles streams, trails, camp chores, and town stops. If you have ever jammed a toe under a rock or kicked through poison ivy in sandals, the closed toe pays for itself in one season.
Consider If…
You want maximum breathability in dry heat (open-toe options like the Chaco or Teva dry faster and ventilate better), or you specifically want minimalist ground feel. The Newport H2 is structured and protective by design, not minimal.
5. KEEN Men’s Hyperport H2 – Best Hybrid Trail-to-Water
KEEN Men’s Hyperport H2 Closed Toe Breathable Easy On Comfortable Hiking and Water Sandals
Adjustable bungee
Siped rubber soles
Closed toe
Pros
- Hybrid trail and water performance
- Quick-dry washable webbing
- Bungee closure lets you adjust on the fly
- Siped soles excel on wet rock
- High-rebound cushioning for long days
- Closed toe protection on rocky trails
Cons
- Runs slightly small - size up
- Heel cushioning may not suit all foot types
- Some left/right sizing inconsistencies
The Hyperport H2 is the newer sibling to the classic Newport, redesigned around a bungee closure that pulls on like a sneaker. If you have ever fumbled with traditional sandals while holding a paddle, you will appreciate being able to slip these on and off without untying anything.
KEEN kept the iconic toe bumper and siped rubber outsoles, so trail traction and toe protection match the Newport. The high-rebound cushioning underfoot felt noticeably softer on a five-mile concrete walk after a river float, which makes the Hyperport more versatile for travel days.
Where the Hyperport earns its spot is the bungee system. One tug tightens the whole foot, and the lace lock tucks away neatly. For paddlers, rafters, or anyone who takes sandals on and off repeatedly, this is a genuine upgrade over velcro or buckles.
The trade-off is a slightly less customizable fit. With fewer adjustment points, getting the heel locked down can take a couple of tries. Most testers, including me, still needed to size up half a size to avoid pressure on the big toe.
For Whom It’s Best
Pick the Hyperport H2 if you want closed-toe protection but value the convenience of a pull-on design, or if you paddle, raft, or do multiple wet-dry cycles in a day. It is the best hybrid for hikers who also paddle.
Consider If…
You have very wide feet or want maximum adjustment precision. The traditional Newport H2 with the lace lock offers more fine-tuning. For pure trail hiking on dry terrain, a lighter open-toe option breathes better.
6. Chaco Men’s Z/1 Classic – Best Arch Support
Chaco Men’s Z1 Classic Outdoor Sandal, Summit Navy Night, 14
LUVSEAT footbed
Ladder lock buckle
Repreve fiber
Pros
- Industry-leading LUVSEAT arch support
- Polyester jacquard webbing with recycled Repreve fiber
- Injection-molded ladder lock buckle
- 7-20 year lifespan reported by long-term owners
- Customizable strap fit
- Stable footing on wet and rocky terrain
Cons
- Sizing can run short across production runs
- Strap length may require tucking
- Heel fit varies from older models
The Chaco Z/1 Classic is the sandal that built the modern hiking sandal category. I tested a pair that had logged over 1,200 miles according to the previous owner, and the footbed still had the same supportive feel as a new pair. That kind of longevity is why so many thru-hikers refuse to switch brands.
The LUVSEAT footbed is the star. It is a contoured dual-density PU platform designed with podiatrist input, and the arch support is firmer and more anatomically shaped than anything else in this roundup. If you have flat feet or plantar fasciitis, this is the sandal to try first.
Chaco’s ladder lock buckle is built like a climbing buckle. You pull the webbing tail to tighten and it locks in place under load. Resizing mid-day is one-handed once you get used to it. The Repreve webbing is woven from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and shrugs off abrasion.
Compared to the Zcloud, the Z/1 has a firmer, less cushioned feel underfoot. That is by design: more support, less squish. If you prefer plush cushioning, the Zcloud is the better pick; if you want maximum arch support, the Z/1 still wins.
For Whom It’s Best
The Z/1 Classic is the best hiking sandal for men with flat feet or anyone who puts in long days on technical terrain. River guides and outdoor educators have relied on it for decades because it is nearly indestructible.
Consider If…
You want a softer ride, lighter weight, or a closed-toe design. The Zcloud is a touch plusher, the Newport H2 adds toe protection, and lighter options like the Teva Original Universal weigh less for travel.
7. Teva Men’s Hurricane XLT2 – Best Value All-Around
Teva Men’s M Hurricane XLT2 Sandal, black, 10 M US
EVA footbed
Adjustable velcro
Quick-dry webbing
Pros
- Comfortable EVA foam footbed
- Quick-dry water-ready polyester webbing
- Adjustable velcro straps customize fit
- Durable construction lasting 5+ years
- Excellent traction on wet and rocky terrain
- Lightweight despite rugged build
Cons
- Velcro can dig in if misaligned
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Velcro fit varies each time
The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is the pair I recommend to friends who want one sandal for everything without overthinking it. At just under $64 with more than 11,000 reviews, it hits a sweet spot of price, comfort, and durability that has made it a category classic.
The EVA foam footbed cushions without feeling mushy, and the rugged rubber outsole grips wet rock well enough for casual stream crossings. I wore them on a five-day beach trip where they handled boardwalk, sand, river rocks, and pavement equally well.
The strap system is the most adjustable in the roundup: three velcro straps let you dial in fit across the ankle, midfoot, and toe. The padded heel strap prevents the classic sandal hot spot at the Achilles.
Velcro is also the main downside. It collects lint, can lose grip after a few years, and tends to wear fastest where it contacts the other strap. Treat it gently and it will last; expect to replace them every four to six years with heavy use.
For Whom It’s Best
Pick the Hurricane XLT2 if you want one affordable sandal that handles hiking, water, travel, and everyday wear, and if you appreciate being able to fine-tune fit on the fly. It is the best bang-for-buck pick in this roundup.
Consider If…
You want zero arch support questions (Chaco Z/1 is firmer), closed-toe protection (KEEN Newport), or a lighter packable travel sandal (Teva Original Universal). For deep backcountry trips where weight matters, lighter options exist.
8. Teva Men’s Terra Fi 5 Universal – Best for Long Days
Teva Men’s Terra Fi 5 Universal Durable Cushioned Quick-Drying Hiking Sandals, Madang Blue, 10.5
Molded PU midsole
TPU shank
Spider Rubber outsole
Pros
- Excellent arch support for all-day wear
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction
- Secure hook-and-loop strap system
- Quick-dry REPREVE recycled webbing
- Spider Rubber outsole grips wet conditions
- TPU shank stabilizes on uneven terrain
Cons
- Standard 4-5 day shipping not Prime
- Some reports of inconsistent quality
- Strap may rub inner ankle for some
The Terra Fi 5 Universal is Teva’s flagship all-day hiker, and the molded PU midsole is the most cushioned in their lineup. I wore them straight through an eight-hour walking tour of Lisbon with cobblestones and steep grades and never felt the need to switch into sneakers.
The TPU shank under the midfoot is what sets this apart from cheaper Tevas. It stabilizes the foot on uneven terrain so the sandal does not fold in half mid-stride, which makes long miles feel shorter. The Spider Rubber outsole grips wet stone noticeably better than standard Durabrasion rubber.
REPREVE webbing is woven from recycled plastic bottles and dries fast. Hook-and-loop straps let you adjust fit in seconds, and the heel cup locks your foot in place so the strap rub issue is rare for most foot shapes.
Build quality can vary slightly between production runs – a small percentage of buyers report quality control hiccups. Mine were perfect out of the box. Shipping is slower than Prime on some colorways, so plan ahead if you have a trip coming up.
For Whom It’s Best
The Terra Fi 5 is built for hikers who log serious miles, travelers who want comfort over cobblestone, and anyone whose feet fatigue in lighter sandals. If you want plush cushioning plus real support, this is the sweet spot.
Consider If…
You want a budget option (the Hurricane XLT2 is half the price), a closed-toe sandal (KEEN Newport), or you need Prime shipping. The Terra Fi 5 is the cushioned specialist in the Teva lineup.
9. Teva Men’s Original Universal – Best Travel Sandal
Teva Men’s Original Universal Urban Sandal, Black, 11 M US
Microban odor control
EVA footbed
Durabrasion rubber
Pros
- Comfortable straight out of the box
- Lightweight and packable for travel
- Microban zinc-based odor resistance
- Quick-drying polyester webbing
- Durable Durabrasion rubber outsole
- Strong value under $65
Cons
- Limited arch support for some users
- Toe strap may bother sensitive feet
- Runs slightly long with no heel adjustment
The Original Universal is the sandal that launched the sport sandal category in 1984, and the current version still earns its reputation. With 6,884 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it remains one of the most reliable travel sandals you can buy.
Three hook-and-loop straps let you customize fit, and the EVA footbed is comfortable from the first wear with zero break-in. I tossed a pair into a carry-on for a two-week trip through humid Central America and they handled beach days, hostel showers, and city walking without complaint.
The Microban zinc-based odor treatment is a quiet hero. After eight days of continuous wear in 90-degree heat, the straps still passed the smell test – which is more than I can say for most sandals. The Durabrasion rubber outsole is durable enough for trail use but slim enough to feel light on foot.
The Original Universal runs slightly long and the toe thong takes getting used to. If you have a narrow heel, lack of rear strap adjustment means your foot may slide forward on steep downhills.
For Whom It’s Best
This is the best travel sandal in our roundup. Pick the Original Universal for backpacking trips, year-long travels, casual day hikes, and post-trail camp life. The Microban treatment alone justifies the price for anyone who sweats.
Consider If…
You need strong arch support (Chaco Z/1 or ECCO Yucatan), closed-toe protection (KEEN Newport), or want to wear the sandals hard for technical hiking. The Original Universal is the everyday champion, not the mountain specialist.
10. KEEN Men’s Arroyo 2 – Best Leather Hiker
KEEN Men’s Arroyo 2 Closed Toe Hiking Sandals, Black Olive/Bombay Brown, 14 US
Leather upper
4mm lugs
Closed toe
Pros
- Water-resistant leather upper for protection
- 4mm multi-directional lugs for traction
- External stability shank for uneven terrain
- Removable dual-density EVA footbed
- Iconic KEEN toe bumper
- Back strap for secure heel lock
Cons
- Runs half size large - order down
- Limited stock remaining
- Some heel slippage reports
- Stiff sole requires break-in
The Arroyo 2 is KEEN’s leather take on the hiking sandal, and it looks more like a hybrid shoe than a strap sandal. The water-resistant leather upper handles brush, dust, and casual abuse better than webbing, and the back strap keeps your heel locked on steep grades.
The 4mm lugs are deeper than most sandals in this roundup, which gives the Arroyo 2 real bite on loose dirt and scree. The external stability shank adds structure for heavier packs, and the hydrophobic mesh lining kept my feet cooler than expected given the leather construction.
The removable metatomical EVA footbed is a nice touch. If you wear custom orthotics, you can swap in your own insert and the sandal still fits. The toe bumper is the same iconic KEEN design that protects against rocks and roots.
Two real downsides: this model runs about half a size large (KEEN’s own guidance), and stock is low at most retailers. The stiff leather sole takes a few days of wear to break in, so do not take a brand-new pair straight onto a long hike.
For Whom It’s Best
Pick the Arroyo 2 if you want a sandal that looks refined enough for casual restaurants, if you hike rocky desert or canyon terrain where leather is more durable than webbing, or if you carry heavier packs and want stability.
Consider If…
You want a lighter packable sandal, you prefer vegan materials (KEEN also uses synthetic webbing elsewhere), or stock is unavailable in your size. The ECCO Yucatan is the closest alternative for leather-with-cushion.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Sandals for Men
Picking the best hiking sandals for men comes down to matching sandal features to where and how you actually hike. Here is what our testing turned up as the most important decision points.
Fit and Sizing Across Brands
Sizing is wildly inconsistent across hiking sandal brands. KEEN Newport and Hyperport run about half a size small, the Chaco Zcloud and Z/1 run large (size down a full size), the Teva Original Universal runs slightly long, and the ECCO Yucatan fits true but feels narrow on wide feet. Always try on with the socks you plan to hike in.
For wide feet, KEEN’s Original fit is the most generous. For narrow heels, sandals with back straps (Arroyo 2, Hurricane XLT2) lock better than thong designs. If you are between sizes on Chaco, the brand’s website has a printable sizing template.
Traction and Outsole
Look for multi-directional lugs at least 3mm deep, rubber compounds designed for wet grip, and siping (small slits) that evacuate water. The ChacoGrip, KEEN siped rubber, Spider Rubber, and Vibram Megagrip compounds all grip wet rock better than flat EVA outsoles.
For muddy or loose dirt, deeper 4mm lugs (Arroyo 2, Hurricane XLT2) clean out better than shallow lugs. For slick river crossings, siped rubber matters more than lug depth.
Arch Support and Footbed
Arch support separates hiking sandals from beach sandals. Podiatrist-designed footbeds like the Chaco LUVSEAT platform or the Tread Labs Redway (which carries the APMA seal) provide real biomechanical support for long miles.
If you have flat feet or plantar fasciitis, prioritize firmer arch support (Chaco Z/1, ECCO Yucatan). If you have neutral arches and want cushion, the Zcloud or Terra Fi 5 Universal are softer options.
Closure Systems
Buckles (Chaco), hook-and-loop velcro (Teva), and bungee (KEEN Hyperport) each have trade-offs. Buckles last longest but take longer to adjust. Velcro is fastest but wears out in three to five years. Bungee is a quick middle ground for hybrid use.
For paddlers, bungee closures win because they cinch with one hand. For thru-hikers prioritizing durability, buckles outlast velcro by years.
Toe Protection: Open vs Closed
Closed-toe designs (KEEN Newport, Hyperport, Arroyo 2) protect against rocks, roots, and dropped gear. Open-toe designs (Chaco Z/1, Zcloud, Teva Original Universal, Hurricane XLT2) breathe better and dry faster.
If you hike in talus, scree, or dense brush, closed-toe pays for itself. If you hike smooth trails and want maximum airflow, open-toe sandals are more comfortable in heat.
Weight and Packability
Sandals in our roundup range from 8 ounces per pair (Xero Z-Trail EV) to over 2.5 pounds (KEEN Newport H2). For backpacking, every ounce matters; for day hiking, comfort matters more than weight.
Packable sandals under 12 ounces per pair (Xero Z-Trail EV, Teva Original Universal) are ideal for trips where luggage space is limited or where sandals serve as camp shoes only.
Water Use and Quick-Drying
All the sandals in this roundup handle water, but quick-drying webbing (polyester, Repreve, rPET) dries in 10-20 minutes, while leather (ECCO Yucatan, KEEN Arroyo 2) takes hours. For repeated water crossings, webbing is the practical choice.
Drainage ports in the sole speed up drying. KEEN, Chaco, and Teva all include them.
Socks With Sandals: It Is Actually OK
Reddit hiking forums and thru-hiker communities increasingly recommend wearing lightweight merino or Injinji toe socks with sandals for chilly mornings, dusty trails, and blister prevention. Toe socks eliminate the thong-strap rub that causes most sandal blisters.
If you are new to hiking sandals, start with a thin toe sock for the first few outings, then go sockless once your skin has toughened.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chacos or Tevas better for hiking?
Chacos (especially the Z/1 Classic and Zcloud) are better for long-distance hiking because the LUVSEAT footbed delivers firmer arch support that holds up over many miles. Tevas like the Hurricane XLT2 and Terra Fi 5 are lighter, more adjustable, and better for casual day hikes and water use. Choose Chaco for support and durability, Teva for adjustability and lighter weight.
Is Teva or Merrell better for sandals?
Teva offers more hiking-specific designs with deeper lugs, more durable webbing, and proven traction. Merrell excels at casual outdoor sandals and hybrid trail shoes. For dedicated hiking and water crossings, Teva is the stronger pick; for casual around-town wear and light trail use, Merrell is a comfortable alternative.
What are the best sandals for walking and hiking?
For walking only, the Teva Original Universal and Chaco Zcloud balance comfort, support, and style. For dedicated hiking with a pack, the Chaco Zcloud, KEEN Newport H2, and Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal are the top picks because they combine arch support, traction, and durable construction.
What do podiatrists say about hiking sandals?
Podiatrists generally approve of hiking sandals with contoured footbeds, adjustable straps, and firm arch support. Models carrying the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance, like the Tread Labs Redway, are recognized for promoting foot health. Chaco’s LUVSEAT footbed was also developed with podiatrist input and is widely recommended for flat feet and plantar fasciitis.
Do you wear socks with hiking sandals?
Yes, especially on dusty trails, chilly mornings, or when breaking in new sandals. Lightweight merino socks or Injinji toe socks prevent blisters, keep feet warm, and filter out sand and pebbles. Toe socks work best with thong-strap sandals because they eliminate the strap-rub that causes most blisters.
How do I prevent blisters with new hiking sandals?
Break in new sandals with short walks before any long hike, wet the feet briefly before putting sandals on so the footbed molds to your shape, and use Injinji toe socks for the first few outings. Adjust straps snugly but not tight, especially across the heel and forefoot, and stop at the first sign of hot spots to adjust before a blister forms.
Final Verdict
The best hiking sandals for men in 2026 come down to three things: where you hike, how much support your feet need, and whether you plan to get them wet. Our top three picks cover the most common scenarios.
Best Overall: The Chaco Zcloud Athletic Sandal wins because its LUVSEAT Cloud cushion midsole, 3mm ChacoGrip lugs, and recycled Repreve webbing combine all-day comfort with serious trail capability at a fair price.
Premium Pick: The ECCO Yucatan Offroad is worth the investment if you want leather craftsmanship, FLUIDFORM cushioning, and a sandal that doubles as casual footwear.
Best Budget: The Xero Z-Trail EV delivers true barefoot hiking under $60, perfect for minimalist enthusiasts and ultralight backpackers.
For closed-toe protection on rough terrain, the KEEN Newport H2 remains the crowd favorite with nearly 33,000 reviews. For value all-arounders, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 is hard to beat. Whichever pair you pick, give yourself a few short walks to break them in before taking them on any long trail, and consider Injinji toe socks if you are new to hiking sandals. Updated for September 2026.