Hiking in sandals is generally not recommended as they do not offer the cover and protection that an actual hiking shoe does. However, the discomfort of hiking with heavy, closed-style shoes in very hot weather cannot be overstated. They can cause your feet to sweat excessively, leading to discomfort and sometimes blistering.
When selecting water sandals for hiking in wet conditions or terrains, I highly recommend those that are specifically designed to be water-friendly and for hiking purposes. These sandals, such as the Keen Newport, Teva Hurricane, and Crocs Classic range, offer a unique blend of comfort and functionality, making your hiking experience a breeze.
Table of Contents
- Water Sandals
- Water Sandals for Hiking
- Features of a Good Water Sandal for Hiking
- Reviews: The Best Water Sandals for Hiking
- Index Table: Top Rated Water Sandals for Hiking
Water Sandals
Before we discuss water sandals for Hiking and connect the two, let’s first consider what an actual water sandal ideally entails.
A water sandal for hiking is not a plastic or EVA slide or flip flop, nor is it a cheap sandal model that you can buy from your local retailer. It’s a unique type of sandal, specifically designed for water activities and hiking. While hiking sandals are designed for hiking and may also be water-friendly, water sandals for hiking are a specialized category.
A true water sandal is designed to offer good traction and grip on wet and slick surfaces, mostly found around rivers and lakes.
A good quality water sandal will also offer good drainage of water and debris, with materials that dry almost instantly and do not hold water.
There are a few instances where water sandals come in quite handy;
- Swimming and Beach wear – Water sandals are perfect for swimming when you get out of the pool and for wearing to the beach.
- Summer Wear – Water sandals are perfect for wearing to the beach, lake, and camping during summer.
- Fishing and Hiking – Water sandals offer good traction and water resistance for fishing and hiking trips on wet terrains. They can be worn in and out of the water on slick and rocky surfaces.
Water Sandals for Hiking
Most hiking sandals are water-friendly and are similar to water sandals. Hiking offers many benefits;
- Lightweight – Water sandals for Hiking will be much more lightweight on your feet than actual water shoes, hiking shoes, and boots. They will also keep your feet cooler in hot weather and ventilate them well.
- Easy Water Crossing – You can easily walk through streams, rivers, and other water bodies or puddles without removing your shoes and socks. Water sandals for hiking will provide ample traction, and they will drain water as well as dry very quickly.
- Stay Clean. Water sandals easily drain water and debris, and you can quickly and easily remove small stones and pebbles from your sandal without having to remove the entire sandal, as you would with water shoes or hiking boots.
- Tanning – A fun Bonus of a water sandal for hiking is that you can get a pretty good tan on your feet with some open styles.
Features of a Good Water Sandal for Hiking
Here are a few features you can look for in good water sandals that are also ideal for hiking.
Remember that the lighter designs and full water sandals may offer less durability and protection than full hiking sandals.
However, most hiking sandals are generally well suited to use as water sandals.
- Uppers – You get different water sandals for hiking that may have an open or closed fisherman style. The uppers will usually be water-resistant or quick-drying neoprene, polyester, or treated leather, and you get EVA foam models. The uppers should be adjustable in fit with a Velcro closure or bungee laces.
- Footbed – The footbed may be contoured and cushioned for support and comfort, with a non-slip surface and water-friendly materials such as EVA or foam.
- Outsole – The outsole will usually be a thick rubber with lug patterns for optimal grip and traction on wet and dry surfaces.
Reviews: The Best Water Sandals for Hiking
In our review section, you will find some of the best available water sandals that you can use for hiking;
I have included some heavy-weight and very durable hiking sandals for tough terrains that are water-friendly and can still be used in and out of the water. These are typically in the higher price range, but they’re a worthwhile investment due to their durability. For less harsh outdoor terrains for hiking, I have included some lighter water sandal models that are more affordable. These are typically in the mid to lower price range, making them a budget-friendly option for casual hikers.
1
Fisherman Style Waterproof Hiking Sandal
- The Keen Newport is the perfect water-friendly sandal for hiking.
- The sandal has a closed Fisherman’s style and a comfortable fit EVA insole.
- The uppers are a quick-drying polyester and adjustable in fit.
- There is a very durable and slip-resistant rubber outsole.
2
Water Hiking Sandal
- The Teva Hurricane is lightweight,water-friendly, and very durable for walking.
- It has quick-drying polyester uppers that are fully adjustable for a customizable fit.
- The Sole is a soft and durable EVA foam that supports your feet.
- The outsole is lug and highly slip-resistant.
- You can also choose from a few more available color options if you like.
3
Water Sandals for Hiking
- Here, we have an Amphibious closed athletic sandal, ideal for use in and out of water.
- It has a quick drainage design and is closed for extra protection.
- The Midsole is a durable EVA, and the innersole is a more comfortable memory foam.
- There is a slip-resistant rubber outsole and an anti-collision rubber toe cap.
4
Water Sandals for Hiking
- Though not the most durable in hiking sandals, the Crocs Classic range can be used on less harsh trails.
- They are a water-resistant Crosslite foam with large drainage holes and a closed protective design.
- The footbed is cushioned and offers good support for your feet.
- There is a durable slip-resistant outsole.
- The Crocs Classic range has many color options.
5
Waterproof Hiking Sandal
- Another Option from Crocs is their Swiftwater range.
- They are ideally water sandals with a more rugged design for hiking.
- The sandal features foamy crosslite materials with synthetic adjustable uppers.
- They have a durable and slip-resistant rubber outsole.
- Furthermore, you can choose from a few available color ranges.
6
Water Sandal for Hiking
- The Teva Hurricane Drift is a full-water sandal for walking.
- The range offers a sandal that consists of a full injection-molded EVA and is completely water-resistant.
- The uppers are adjustable for a more comfortable fit.
- They have a durable and slip-resistant outsole and are very lightweight for use in water.
Index Table: Top Rated Water Sandals for Hiking
| No. | Product | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Keen® - Fisherman Style Waterproof Hiking Sandal |  |  |
| Keen | 98 |
| 2 | Teva® - Water Hiking Sandal |  |  |
| Teva | 97.9 |
| 3 | ® - Water Sandals for Hiking |  | |
| 97.6 | |
| 4 | ® - Water Sandals for Hiking | | |
| 97.6 | |
| 5 | Crocs® - Waterproof Hiking Sandal |  |  |
| Crocs | 97 |
| 6 | Teva® - Water Sandal for Hiking |  |  |
| Teva | 97 |
