Typically you simply must let the tootsies wiggle free; we get that. Many individuals select climbing sandals for rafting, informal day hikes, and climbing approaches, however they will additionally function an excellent various to conventional climbing footwear for longer treks in notably sizzling or moist climates.
As a staff, we’ve collectively hiked over 6,000 miles in additional than 40 pairs of adventure-ready sandals—together with large thru-hikes just like the Appalachian Path—and we’ve discovered a factor or two about what makes a sandal really trail-worthy. We just lately up to date our information to the very best climbing sandals for ladies with one other spherical of focused testing, critically evaluating every pair throughout six completely different efficiency classes. We measured every sandal’s consolation, stability, sturdiness, traction, weight, packability, and ease of use.
We’ll use our experience on this information that will help you discover your good pair of climbing sandals for your whole adventures—large and small.
It might be a vogue faux-pas, however pairing your climbing sandals with a superb pair of climbing socks will lower down on abrasion from straps and maintain your ft hotter. Or should you’re after a pair of cozy sandals for lounging as a substitute of climbing, you’ll love our checklist of the finest camp sneakers.
Fast Picks for Ladies’s Climbing Sandals
Take a look at this fast checklist of our favorites should you’re in a rush, or proceed scrolling to see our full checklist of the very best climbing sandals with in-depth critiques.
Finest climbing sandals general: Teva Hurricane XLT2 ($80)
Finest funds climbing sandal: Teva Unique Common ($55)
Most versatile climbing sandal: Chaco Z/1 Adjustable Strap Traditional ($105)
Finest ultralight climbing sandal: Xero Footwear Z-Path EV ($80)
Runner-Up ultralight climbing sandal: Earth Runner Alpha ($94)
Finest climbing shoe-sandal hybrid: HOKA Hopara 2 ($135)
Runner-Up climbing shoe-sandal hybrid: KEEN Newport H2 ($120)
Finest ultralight climbing sandal: Luna Mono Winged Version ($110)
Finest climbing sandal for slender ft: Ecco Yucatan ($140)
Finest closed-toe climbing sandal for slender ft: KEEN Rose ($120)
Finest climbing sandal for informal put on: Astral Webber ($110)
What’s new
We’ve been hitting the path in some new sandals to see how they stack up in opposition to our tried-and-true high picks.
- The Teva Hurricane XLT2 earned the highest spot for its distinctive worth proposition: a flexible, sturdy, and cozy climbing sandal for beneath $80.
- We added the Teva Unique Common as our high funds decide, which it earned because of its under-$60 value level and excellence for on a regular basis put on
- The beloved Chaco Z/1 Traditional stays on our checklist, taking the title of “most versatile” for its amphibious nature, number of types, and its skill to take you from city to path fashionably.
- The HOKA Hopara 2 received a spot as the very best sneaker-sandal hybrid for its efficiency on trails and roads alike. The KEEN Newport H2 trails carefully behind as its runner-up.
- We added the KEEN Rose as a closed-toe possibility for hikers with slender ft.
Teva Hurricane XLT2
Finest climbing sandals general
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.8/5.0
Value:
$80
Weight (Pair):
15.5 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
3
Closure Mechanism:
Velcro (heel, ankle, forefoot)
Professionals
- Inexpensive
- Vast footbed creates stability
- Gives sneaker-like assist because of thick midsole
- Rubber outsole supplies traction on most surfaces
- Heel-to-toe drop helps with ankle mobility
- Padded heel strap prevents pores and skin irritation
- 3 adjustment factors
- Contoured footbed cradles the heel
Cons
- Heavy and considerably cumbersome
- Outsole lugs are a bit shallow for scree faces
- Vast footbed will not be ideally suited for slender ft
- Midsole is tough, not plush
Should you love the Teva Unique Common Sandal however would really like it to be a bit extra rugged, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 grants your want. Just like the Unique Universals in some ways, they keep the identical simplistic, utilitarian type. In addition they make use of Velcro straps for the closure system, are absolutely open-toe, and have a textured footbed.
Nevertheless, they differ in simply as some ways. Primarily, the footbed is considerably wider, accommodating a better vary of foot shapes, and there’s a notable heel-to-toe drop. We love these as a result of they really feel just like sneakers, because of their chunky midsole and three adjustment factors, which offer a locked-in really feel.
Whereas they might not be essentially the most shock-absorbing sandals on account of their dense midsole, they provide an excessive amount of vitality return, serving to you’re feeling lighter in your ft. They supply strong traction on numerous surfaces, together with trails with gravel, grime, free sand, or naked rock. Like most climbing sandals, they faltered barely on steep scree slopes, however to not the extent of being a dealbreaker. We consider they make wonderful method sneakers, water sneakers, and around-town sneakers—all for a really affordable value, which earns them the highest spot on our information to the very best climbing sandals.
When you’ve got slender ft, the XLT2s may not be your finest match, because the footbed could really feel too roomy for these with slender ft.
Teva Unique Common
Finest funds climbing sandal
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.7/5.0
Value:
$60
Weight (Pair):
11 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
2
Closure Mechanism:
Velcro (forefoot and heel)
Professionals
- Light-weight
- Simply packable for water crossings or as camp sneakers
- Straightforward to get on and off
- Very adjustable
- Versatile, delicate midsole
- Sturdy regardless of their gentle weight
- Able to dealing with minor water crossings
Cons
- Not ideally suited for rugged terrain
- Traction isn’t nice on moist or slippery surfaces
- Not really useful for deep or fast-moving water crossings
The Teva Unique Common is an impressive alternative for these looking for a light-weight, versatile sandal that’s good for quite a lot of gentle out of doors actions and each day put on. Weighing simply 11 ounces per pair, these sandals are extremely packable and ideally suited as a secondary pair for water crossings or camp sneakers. The twin Velcro straps make them straightforward to placed on, take off, and alter, guaranteeing a snug and safe match each time.
Whereas their traction and assist will not be strong sufficient for rugged terrain or steep, slippery surfaces, they excel on delicate trails, sand, grass, and gravel. The impartial footbed and average midsole assist could not go well with these needing important arch assist or with very huge ft, however they’re sturdy and versatile, holding up nicely even after years of heavy use. For a relatively low value, the Unique Common provides wonderful worth for adventurers on the lookout for an “every thing sandal” that performs nicely for errands, river journeys, and lightweight hikes.
Chaco Z/1 Traditional
Most versatile climbing sandal
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.6/5.0
Value:
$105
Weight (Pair):
1 lb. 5.2 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
3
Closure Mechanism:
Single bar buckle
Professionals
- Sturdy, inflexible midsole supplies assist
- Arch assist is substantial
- 3-mm outsole lugs grip most surfaces
- Obtainable in quite a lot of colorways to indicate off private type
- Textured footbed helps stop slipping when sweaty
- ReChaco program fixes sandals for low charges
Cons
- For low arches, arch assist may be uncomfortable
- Traction lacks on silty surfaces
- Mounted heel strap may trigger match points
A fan favourite amongst hikers and paddlers alike, the Chaco Z/1 Classics sit solidly in our lineup of the very best climbing sandals. With a thick, sturdy midsole, these widespread climbing sandals provide safety from tough path surfaces whereas permitting your toes to wiggle and your ft to breathe. Our tester has grown to like the one-loop strap adjustment system, which permits for a custom-made and safe match for ft of all shapes.
At first look, the Z/1 Classics might sound costly, however we’ve discovered them to be exceptionally sturdy, so we expect they’re well worth the value. And in the event that they do break or put on all the way down to the purpose of being unusable (which might require some severe miles), Chaco will repair them for a nominal price by their ReChaco program.
Xero Footwear Z-Path EV
Finest ultralight climbing sandal
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.3/5.0
Value:
$80
Weight (Pair):
8.6 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
2
Closure Mechanism:
Velcro (heel), single bar buckle (ankle)
Professionals
- Wonderful for grounding
- Gives full foot freedom
- Tender footbed wicks away sweat
- Straps are versatile and delicate
- 2-year producer’s guarantee
- 5,000-mile sole guarantee
Cons
- Could not work for slender ft
- No arch assist
- No ankle assist
These climbing sandals are good for you if you wish to put on sneakers with out truly feeling such as you’re carrying sneakers. Our tester was shocked the second she wiggled her ft into the Xero Footwear Z-Path EVs: It was akin to wriggling out of a sweaty sports activities bra after an extended, sizzling hike. These sandals present full foot freedom whereas safeguarding the soles of your ft from tough path surfaces.
The Z-Path EVs are a barefoot-inspired shoe, so we don’t suggest them for anybody who requires ankle or arch assist, or any help with stability for that matter. Nevertheless, if grounding is what you’re after, we aren’t certain you could find a greater possibility. Plus, they’re very moderately priced and include a formidable two-year, 5,000-mile sole guarantee.
Earth Runner Alpha Sandals
Runner-Up ultralight climbing sandal
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.4/5.0
Value:
$94
Weight (Pair):
7.6 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
3
Closure Mechanism:
Clamp buckle
Professionals
- Extraordinarily light-weight and simply packable
- Vast footbed permits toes to splay
- Canvas footbed prevents slipping & stickiness
- Efficiency laces are durably constructed
- Permits for unbelievable floor really feel & foot flexibility
Cons
- Toe thong induced ache for our tester
- No ankle or arch assist
- Canvas footbed may get smelly after some time
If foot freedom is what you’re after and you like a flip-flop type sandal, the Earth Runner Alpha Journey Sandals could also be the very best climbing sandals for you. An in depth runner-up to our high decide for ultralight sandals, the Alphas really feel virtually like carrying nothing—that’s, if the toe thong doesn’t hassle you prefer it did our tester. In addition they present unbelievable connectedness to the earth beneath your ft and wonderful traction on virtually all surfaces regardless of their light-weight construct.
It might not seem to be you’re getting plenty of shoe for the worth (there are a lot hardier climbing sandals obtainable for across the identical value) however you’re paying for the design, not a lot the supplies. And that design permits your ft to breathe, flex, splay, and strengthen.
HOKA Hopara 2
Finest climbing shoe-sandal hybrid
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.3/5.0
Value:
$135
Weight (Pair):
1 lb. 4.8 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
2
Closure Mechanism:
Fast-toggle lace (ankle), Velcro strap (heel)
Professionals
- Thick, bouncy midsole supplies wonderful vitality return
- Tight-knit mesh higher is versatile but sturdy
- Appropriate for path working and climbing
- Gives nice traction on most surfaces
- Water-repellent with nice drainage
- Ankle collar is delicate & versatile
- Prime-tier toe safety
Cons
- Not packable in comparison with a conventional climbing sandal
- Heavy
- Pebbles/silt are laborious to shake out
- Traction isn’t nice on silty surfaces
The HOKA Hopara 2 is our favourite sneaker-sandal hybrid. A far cry from stereotypical water sneakers, these waterproof, protecting kicks can sort out rocky terrain and steep descents simply as successfully as they deal with waterlogged trails and creek crossings. That includes HOKA’s signature chunky midsole, the Hopara 2 is good for hikers who search extra assist and cushioning than typical climbing sandals provide. The thicker midsole and sneaker-like higher make them wonderful for rock-hopping and retaining out most path particles.
Throughout testing, these excelled in numerous path eventualities, together with dry grime, gravel, and naked rock. Nevertheless, they struggled to supply traction on particularly silty surfaces. Moreover, whereas we’re large followers of the roomy footbed and toe field, these received’t work for hikers with slender ft. Regardless of these few drawbacks, the Hopara 2s firmly established themselves in our guide of top-performing climbing sandals after testing them on a variety of path surfaces.
KEEN Newport H2
Runner-Up climbing shoe-sandal hybrid
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.2/5.0
Value:
$130
Weight (Pair):
1 lb. 6 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
1
Closure Mechanism:
Fast-toggle bungee lace (ankle)
Professionals
- Unbelievable vitality return from midsole
- Handles quite a lot of terrain exceptionally nicely
- Toe bumper protects toes from rocks & different particles
- Can be worn for path working
- Eliminates must pack sandals for water crossings
- Slender match is good for slender ft
Cons
- Not packable in comparison with a conventional climbing sandal
- Heavy
- Toe field tapers & could not work for wider ft
“Amphibious” is the phrase to make use of to explain the KEEN Newport H2 climbing sandals. A superb alternative for hikers looking for a sturdy sandal, this versatile sandal-sneaker hybrid handles moist and dry circumstances equally nicely. With a quick-toggle bungee lace system and a sticky outsole, these sneakers present a safe match and implausible traction, even on steep or slippery surfaces. The thick midsole provides spectacular vitality return, making Newport a sensible choice for these prioritizing consolation on lengthy hikes.
Nevertheless, the Newport H2 will not be ideally suited for hikers with huge ft on account of its slender match, and the heel strap may cause discomfort over prolonged put on. At almost 11 ounces per shoe, they’re heavier and bulkier than typical climbing sandals, making them much less sensible for these needing a packable possibility. Nonetheless, their skill to switch a separate water shoe makes them a compelling alternative for multi-terrain adventures.
Luna Mono Winged Version
Finest zero-drop climbing sandal
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.1/5.0
Value:
$110
Weight (Pair):
10.8 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
3
Closure Mechanism:
Single bar buckle
Professionals
- Exceptionally delicate & versatile straps
- Steady adjustment system
- Deep outsole lugs present wonderful traction
- Outsole received’t put on down shortly
- Midsole is sturdy and supportive, but minimal
- Toe thong is delicate and cozy
Cons
- Difficult to search out the precise match at first
- Traction could not maintain up on steep grades
- No arch assist
The Luna Mono Winged version climbing sandals provide an distinctive mix of stability, assist, and foot freedom. With their zero-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, they are often thought-about a minimalist sandal, however their sturdy stack peak of 15 millimeters—together with a 4-millimeter outsole lug depth that digs into the bottom almost wherever you’re taking these sandals—inches them ever-so-slightly towards the maximalist facet.
Throughout testing, these earned their place in our checklist of top-performing climbing sandals, on account of their best-of-all-worlds options. Whereas three figures will be thought-about costly for a pair of sandals, these are pretty priced for what they provide. We suggest them to anybody who needs a zero-drop climbing sandal with a rugged outsole, however particularly to hikers who’re new to the zero-drop world and wish to begin that journey with extra assist than typical barefoot-inspired sneakers.
Ecco Yucatan
Finest climbing sandals for slender ft
CleverHiker Ranking:
4.0/5.0
Value:
$130
Weight (Pair):
1 lb. 12.6 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
3
Closure Mechanism:
Velcro (heel, ankle, forefoot)
Professionals
- Tender, padded straps stop blisters
- Plush midsole absorbs shock
- Contoured footbed helps arches
- Three independently adjustable straps
- All supplies really feel high-quality
Cons
- Run very slender
- Straps/higher don’t dry shortly
- Heavy and hulking
- Costly
We recognize the Ecco Yucatan Climbing Sandals for his or her sturdy development, supple but safe straps, and three-point adjustability. They’re a wonderful alternative for hikers who want ample assist and help with stability—assuming they suit your ft. Our tester discovered these sandals slender, which restricted their use to straightforward, quick trails or round camp, the place she might change them out if the squeezing turned too uncomfortable.
Should you’re a narrow-footed hiker who struggles to search out sandals that don’t really feel like clunky wood moccasins (we all know y’all are on the market), the Yucatans may be a sensible choice for you. They’re dear when not on sale, however for the precise ft, they’ll show their value. Along with being a top-tier alternative for slender ft, they’re additionally a boon for hikers who want a little bit of exterior assist for his or her ankles. The sidebar retains your ft locked in, even when stepping at uncommon angles, and the contoured footbeds present a pleasant cradle in your ft.
KEEN Rose
Finest closed-toe climbing sandal for slender ft
CleverHiker Ranking:
3.9/5.0
Value:
$120
Weight (Pair):
1 lb. 3 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
1
Closure Mechanism:
Velcro (ankle)
Professionals
- Comfortable match for slender ft
- Heel-to-toe drop helps with ankle mobility
- Padded straps stop pores and skin abrasions
- Midsole is appropriate for all-day put on
- Full toe safety
- KEEN ensures in opposition to sole delamination
- Good for quite a lot of delicate adventures
Cons
- Too slender for huge ft
- Shallow lug depth and restricted traction
- Not packable
- Lack forefoot adjustment
The KEEN Rose climbing sandals cater primarily to hikers with slender ft who wrestle to search out sandals that match snugly and likewise search toe safety. Their slender footbed and single adjustment level create a safe really feel, whereas the midsole is plush sufficient to assist all-day put on. Nevertheless, for anybody with impartial or huge ft, the KEEN Roses are more likely to really feel restrictive and uncomfortable.
With a considerable heel-to-toe drop and padded straps, they excel in shock absorption and heel consolation, making them a wonderful alternative for delicate trails and concrete walks. Their cumbersome development and common traction imply these sandals will not be appropriate for technical hikes or as a light-weight secondary possibility: At 19 ounces per pair, we consider they’re an excellent possibility for low-key adventures.
Astral Webber
Finest climbing sandal for informal put on
CleverHiker Ranking:
3.9/5.0
Value:
$110
Weight (Pair):
14.6 oz.
Adjustment Factors:
2
Closure Mechanism:
Double bar buckle
Professionals
- Nice for informal put on
- Zero-drop sole helps foot well being
- Contoured footbed helps with safety
- Straps are comprised of sturdy woven nylon
- Fashionable design
Cons
- Raised texture on footbed is sharp
- Straps loosen on their very own whereas climbing
- Traction is disappointing
The Astral Webber climbing sandals are finest suited to gentle hikes on principally flat terrain, leisurely walks round city, seaside outings, and water actions. Throughout testing, we discovered that the traction isn’t enough for climbing on moderate-to-steep grades, notably if these slopes are coated in slippery sediment. Moreover, hikers could discover that the Webbers lack stability because of the forefoot straps, which are likely to loosen on their very own, in addition to the mounted heel strap.
We take into account them considerably overpriced for the efficiency they supply, nevertheless it’s not all dangerous: Our tester loved carrying the Webbers round city and loves the fashionable, utilitarian design. We consider they pair nicely with errands and river days, and they’d additionally make a pleasant pair of camp sneakers. Their slim profile makes them straightforward to slide into storage compartments in most packs, and we expect hikers will recognize the liberty for his or her ft after an extended day on the path in boots.
| oSort | Product | Value | Weight (Pair) | Adjustment Factors | Closure Mechanism | Consolation | Stability | Traction | Sturdiness | Packability | Ease of Use | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Teva Hurricane XLT2 View at REI View at Amazon |
$80 | 15.5 oz. | 3 | Velcro (heel, ankle, forefoot) | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 3.3 | 5.0 | 1 |
Teva Unique Common View at REI View at Amazon |
$60 | 11 oz. | 2 | Velcro (forefoot and heel) | 4.5 | 3.6 | 3.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 2 |
Chaco Z/1 Traditional View at Amazon |
$105 | 1 lb. 5.2 oz. | 3 | Single bar buckle | 4.4 | 4.5 | 3.7 | 4.5 | 3.0 | 3.9 | 3 |
Xero Footwear Z-Path EV View at REI View at Zappos |
$80 | 8.6 oz. | 2 | Velcro (heel), single bar buckle (ankle) | 4.8 | 3.8 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 3.9 | 4 |
Earth Runner Alpha Sandals View at Earth Runner |
$94 | 7.6 oz. | 3 | Clamp buckle | 3.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 5.0 | 3.9 | 5 |
HOKA Hopara 2 View at REI View at Zappos |
$135 | 1 lb. 4.8 oz. | 2 | Fast-toggle lace (ankle), Velcro strap (heel) | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 2.0 | 4.0 | 6 |
KEEN Newport H2 View at REI View at Amazon |
$130 | 1 lb. 6 oz. | 1 | Fast-toggle bungee lace (ankle) | 3.3 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.0 | 2.0 | 3.2 | 7 |
Luna Mono Winged Version View at Amazon View at Backcountry |
$110 | 10.8 oz. | 3 | Single bar buckle | 4.5 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 8 |
Ecco Yucatan View at Amazon View at Zappos |
$130 | 1 lb. 12.6 oz. | 3 | Velcro (heel, ankle, forefoot) | 3.9 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 2.0 | 5.0 | 9 |
KEEN Rose View at REI View at Amazon |
$120 | 1 lb. 3 oz. | 1 | Velcro (ankle) | 3.1 | 4.0 | 3.8 | 4.1 | 2.3 | 3.6 | 10 |
Astral Webber View at REI View at Amazon |
$110 | 14.6 oz. | 2 | Double bar buckle | 3.3 | 3.8 | 3.0 | 3.9 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
How We Check
Our staff has collectively hiked hundreds of miles in dozens of pairs of climbing sandals throughout numerous geographical areas. For our most up-to-date replace of this information, we additionally undertook a month-long focused testing interval throughout which we extensively wore the 11 pairs featured right here. We hiked a minimal of three miles—solely stopping there within the uncommon case {that a} pair of sandals was too uncomfortable to proceed—with every of the sandals offered in our information.
For the overwhelming majority of sandals featured right here, we hiked 5 to fifteen miles throughout various terrain, each dry and moist, to guage how the sandals carried out in numerous circumstances, totaling greater than 50 miles for the testing interval.
Even when a shoe is uncomfortable for us, we ensure that to notice traits and options of the pair which will higher go well with different individuals. Everybody’s foot anatomy is completely different, and we’re dedicated to serving to our readers discover the precise shoe for them—not for us.
COMFORT
When evaluating the consolation of a climbing sandal, we take into account numerous components, together with arch assist, midsole shock absorption, the softness of the straps (do they trigger abrasions or blisters?), and the footbed contour and texture (does it cup the heel properly?). We additionally bear in mind dimension issues (would this be snug for a slender, huge, or impartial foot?).
STABILITY
Stability is essential when climbing, even on straightforward to average trails. For us, testing stability includes measuring a sandal’s assist degree by way of rigidity, stability for the foot and ankle on uneven terrain, and the safety of the foot throughout the straps.
We additionally take into account the pliability of the footbed and straps, in addition to connectedness to the bottom—does it really feel like strolling on a gummy bear, or can you’re feeling the bottom beneath your ft?
TRACTION
This one’s easy: We consider how nicely the outsole of the sandal performs on numerous surfaces and beneath completely different climate circumstances. We take into account a sandal’s efficiency on grades starting from flat to steep, surfaces from packed to free, and trails from moist to dry.
If we will hike down a scree slope with out sliding throughout or busting our butts, it’s a win.
DURABILITY
To find out a pair of sandals’ sturdiness, we take a look at just a few elements. Primarily, this testing class measures indicators of damage and tear, particularly any indications of untimely deterioration through the early phases of testing (if straps are fraying after simply a few hikes, we take into account that poor sturdiness).
Sandals earn excessive marks for outsole tread that doesn’t put on down too shortly, straps that don’t stretch out, and footbeds that keep their texture to stop slipping, amongst different qualities.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
This metric measures the lightness of the sandals and their suitability for packing on backpacking journeys or day hikes as a secondary pair of sneakers for water crossings and/or camp. When score sandals for this class, we take into account not solely their weight but in addition their profile.
If a shoe is light-weight but nonetheless clunky, it could nonetheless be irritating to pack. Equally, a shoe that’s flat and slim however heavy may add an excessive amount of weight to your pack for longer treks.
EASE OF USE
Lastly, we consider the convenience of use for every pair of sandals. They’re sandals, so that you may be questioning, “How laborious can it’s?” Nevertheless, some strap and buckle mechanisms are extra sophisticated than you may suppose, and that may be an actual burden on the path should you’re unprepared for it.
We assess whether or not the sandals are straightforward to placed on and take off, and if the closure or adjustment mechanism is sophisticated or easy to charge sandals on this class. Consider us: you don’t wish to be tinkering with a one-strap system proper earlier than fording a river.
Why Belief Cleverhiker
Not solely did we hike over 50 miles particularly for this information, however our staff boasts many years of collective path expertise, starting from straightforward front-country jaunts to excessive backcountry adventures. Collectively, we’ve coated hundreds of path miles, a lot of which had been completed in sandals.
Our lead tester for ladies’s climbing sandals is a full-time van-lifer who spends virtually daily exterior. She’s an skilled hiker who has backpacked the Grand Canyon and summited a number of state excessive factors—Mount Hood and Mount Rainier are on her calendar for 2025. Moreover, she’s a path runner, triathlete, and health professional who has spent almost a decade testing and reviewing health and out of doors gear, together with dozens of pairs of sneakers.
Evaluation & Outcomes
VALUE
Our high decide, the Teva Hurricane XLT2, is arguably essentially the most cost-effective climbing sandal at present obtainable. It combines strong traction, stability, and adaptability at a really affordable value level of beneath $100. We really consider these are the best-of-all-worlds climbing sandals; they’ll will let you sort out numerous trails, from straightforward to difficult, in differing circumstances with none bother. They’re additionally gentle sufficient to pack for water crossings on day hikes and trendy sufficient to put on round city.
The Xero Footwear Z-Path EV sandals additionally obtain excessive reward for worth: They supply an unbelievable barefoot expertise and include two spectacular warranties for budget-friendly hikes.
Lastly, the HOKA Hopara 2 earns factors within the worth division for excelling within the shoe-sandal hybrid design. We’ve worn the Hopara 2s for hikes, path runs, highway runs, and paved walks, they usually have carried out excellently in almost all eventualities.
COMFORT
Consolation is extremely subjective and, within the case of climbing sandals, relies upon completely on every particular person’s foot anatomy and shoe preferences. That mentioned, the next evaluation is predicated on the comparatively impartial foot of our lead sandal tester (medium width, common arches, and instep). We love the huge footbed of the Teva Hurricane XLT2s, which permits ample room for the ft to broaden and the toes to splay, plus the delicate inside of the woven straps. The midsole, whereas not notably plush, provides a major quantity of assist and shock absorption.
If foot freedom is a priority—a.ok.a. you wish to liberate your self from the constraints of contemporary footwear—the Xero Footwear Z-Path EVs are a must-try. These minimalist, ultralight sandals characteristic a virtually imperceptible midsole that bends and flexes with each motion of the foot; the straps are delicate, versatile, and hardly noticeable.
For a safer possibility, hikers with slender ft will recognize the locked-in match of the Ecco Yucatan, particularly if a delicate midsole can also be a precedence. Though the Yucatan squeezed our tester’s toes a bit too tightly, she values the give within the midsole for longer treks.
STABILITY
Stability is available in two types when discussing climbing sandals. Climbing sandals will be deemed secure if they supply exterior assist for the ft, akin to arch assist, a sidebar, or a inflexible midsole. They will also be considered as secure if they provide distinctive flexibility, permitting the ft to do what they do finest: transfer and grip the earth. In every of those regards, our testing has recognized clear winners: the Ecco Yucatan for the previous and the Xero Footwear Z-Path EV for the latter.
A top-tier possibility for hikers needing ankle and arch assist, the Yucatan incorporates a strong higher with an exterior sidebar, serving to to maintain the foot safe when stepping at odd angles (as is frequent whereas climbing). The contoured footbed provides a component of safety, cradling the foot and stopping motion throughout the shoe.
The Z-Path EV is the Yucatan’s exact opposite. Offering a near-barefoot expertise, it’s laborious to think about a greater shoe should you search a more in-depth connection to the earth. Whereas they might lack stability in a conventional sense—that’s, they don’t have shanks, sidebars, or arch assist—they’re arguably the best alternative for hikers who’ve developed energy of their foot and ankle muscle tissues. Within the Z-Path EVs, there aren’t any restrictions, permitting your ft to flex, lengthen, and grip as meant.
TRACTION
Climbing sandals don’t often provide the identical traction as climbing boots or path trainers, and it’s typically not really useful to put on them on notably steep or slippery hikes. Nevertheless, it’s nonetheless attainable to discover a pair that retains you upright on steep, slippery trails.
Our high decide, the Teva Hurricane XLT2, supplies respectable traction on most path surfaces. The truth is, their all-around efficiency within the traction class is without doubt one of the major causes these sandals earned their place as the very best general climbing sandals. We’ve worn them on flat, average, and steep path sections and have taken them throughout a number of terrain sorts; we’re but to expertise a fall or any nervousness about falling on account of a scarcity of traction.
Loads of different decisions on our checklist provide nice traction, too. The HOKA Hopara 2, for instance, scored above common on this division for its efficiency on trails, forest roads, and pavement alike. (We did expertise a little bit of slippage on a steep scree slope with the Hopara 2s, however the identical is true for nearly all different climbing sandals we’ve examined.)
For an ultralight possibility with nice traction, we suggest the Earth Runner Alpha Journey Sandals. Though these barefoot-inspired sandals don’t win within the consolation division, our tester appreciates how they create a sense of being related to the bottom and their stickiness on naked rock surfaces.
DURABILITY
No matter whether or not you need an ultralight sandal or an ultra-supportive one, sturdiness is a key issue. We really think about each one of many 11 pairs of sandals on this checklist to carry up for no less than just a few hundred miles, if not a number of hundred and even 1,000-plus. After preliminary testing, we don’t discover any uncommon indicators of untimely put on and tear on our featured decisions.
We anticipate hardier choices to last more, which is a giant motive why sandals with thicker midsoles, just like the Teva Hurricane XLT2 and Chaco Z/1 Traditional, have earned high spots on the checklist.
That doesn’t imply we’ve counted out minimalist choices, although. Particularly, the 5,000-mile sole guarantee and two-year producer’s guarantee on the Xero Footwear Z-Path EV sandals instill in us a excessive degree of hope for longevity. The Earth Runner Alphas, although skinny and versatile, characteristic Vibram outsoles, strengthened laces, and sturdy canvas footbeds that point out they’re there for the lengthy haul.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
It’s laborious to argue with a mere 7.6 ounces per pair; that’s what the Earth Runner Alpha sandals carry to the desk because the clear winner for weight and packability. The Xero Footwear Z-Path EV sandals are available in a really shut second at 8.6 ounces for the pair. In third are the Luna Mono Winged sandals at 10.8 ounces per pair, adopted by our funds decide, the Teva Unique Universals, at 11 ounces.
Any of those 4 picks are certifiably backpacker-friendly, that includes slim, packable profiles along with their light-weight nature. If packability isn’t a priority, you may take into account sacrificing just a few extra ounces for a sturdier sandal with extra assist, just like the Teva Hurricane XLT2, which provides a pleasant mix of ruggedness and lightness, or the Chaco Z/1 Traditional, an all-around strong decide that gives nice stability and sturdiness with out being noticeably heavy on the ft. Actually, all the decisions on our checklist are appropriate for all-day climbing by way of weight; it’s extra of a priority if you wish to carry alongside a second pair of sneakers to slide into for moist path sections or for evenings at camp whereas backpacking.
EASE OF USE
If a pair of sneakers is persistently troublesome to placed on and take off, it’s in all probability not value shopping for—particularly if that pair of sneakers is supposed to be shortly swapped whereas on a path, akin to earlier than and after moist sections. That’s why we take into account ease of use a significant factor in our sandal evaluations.
Our greatest general decide, the Teva Hurricane XLT2, couldn’t be simpler to make use of. These sandals characteristic three independently adjustable Velcro straps. As soon as you discover your match, you don’t even must hassle with the forefoot or heel strap: Simply loosen the ankle strap to get out and in of the sandals.
The Teva Unique Common, Ecco Yucatan, KEEN Rose, and Astral Webber all operate equally, although the latter makes use of buckles as a substitute of Velcro. Some choices, such because the HOKA Hopara 2 and KEEN Newport H2, embody bungee laces, which is usually a bit finicky however present a safer match.
Different decisions, together with the Chaco Z/2 Traditional, Xero Footwear Z-Path EV,Luna Mono Winged, and Earth Runner Alpha, characteristic a one-loop system. This design permits for better match customization however will be obscure at first. After the preliminary adjustment, nonetheless, you’ll solely must loosen one adjustment level to slide the sandals on and off.
Easy methods to Select a Climbing Sandal for Ladies
Sandals could seem to be a comparatively simple product, however for high-performance climbing sandals, it’s best to take into account a number of key traits earlier than selecting a pair.
STRAP CONFIGURATION AND ADJUSTMENT
First issues first: Make sure the strap configuration jives along with your preferences. For example, should you dislike flip-flops, you’ll doubtless really feel the identical about climbing sandals with toe thongs. The strap configuration signifies the place essentially the most stress—and thus essentially the most assist—is on the foot.
Take into account strap adjustability as nicely. The extra adjustment factors there are, the higher match you possibly can obtain. The kind of adjustment, whether or not it’s a buckle or Velcro strap, can be a matter of non-public choice. (P.S. if you’d like sandals that you could put on year-round, pairing them with socks when temperatures drop, we suggest deciding on a configuration with no toe loop or toe thong.)
Concerning strap development, most climbing sandals characteristic some sort of woven textile strap, sometimes nylon, polyester, or a mix. For sturdiness, search for tightly woven textiles and double-stitching.
MIDSOLE MATERIAL AND STACK HEIGHT
The midsole is the a part of the shoe situated between the footbed and outsole. Sometimes comprised of rubber or foam, it’s designed to soak up shock, present assist, and shield the soles of your ft from the bottom beneath them.
Midsoles composed of froth supplies, akin to EVA foam, are plusher and scale back joint impression upon footstrike. Conversely, tougher midsoles comprised of supplies like polyurethane are much less versatile; nonetheless, their rigidity provides extra assist and stability.
Stack peak refers back to the thickness of the midsole, footbed, and outsole at their highest level. Typically, a thicker stack peak supplies better safety, shock absorption, and vitality return (bounciness), whereas thinner stack heights improve foot flexibility and aid you really feel extra related to the bottom.
HEEL-TO-TOE DROP
Like climbing sneakers and boots, climbing sandals include various heel-to-toe drops. Zero-drop soles cater to ultralighters and barefoot-shoe fanatics, whereas greater drops present wonderful assist for people who want additional stability or help with ankle mobility.
For these seeking to begin carrying zero-drop sneakers, it’s vital to transition slowly out of your standard types, as abruptly quitting heel drops can result in discomfort and ache.
OUTSOLE PATTERN AND LUG DEPTH
Many hikers reserve sandals for simpler, flatter trails, wet days, or any trails the place they may encounter a major water crossing. Due to this fact, the shortage of traction (in comparison with boots) that’s typical of climbing sandals will not be often a significant concern in these conditions.
Nevertheless, should you plan on venturing out on extra strenuous trails—notably these which might be steep and have slippery surfaces like scree fields—it’s clever to decide on a pair with a sturdy outsole. Search for deep lugs of a minimum of three millimeters in depth, together with aggressive tread patterns. Chevron and diamond patterns are likely to carry out finest.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
Should you ever plan to pack your sandals for water crossings, to put on at camp throughout backpacking journeys, or for some other causes, weight and packability ought to be excessive in your checklist of priorities.
To keep away from weighing down your pack, select a pair of sandals that weighs lower than 1 pound (16 ounces)—for each sneakers mixed. Additionally, take into account the shoe’s profile, whether or not it’s slim or chunky, as this can considerably impression how straightforward (or not) it’s to pack. Moreover, light-weight footwear helps reduce muscle fatigue and scale back the chance of stumbling.
Conclusion
Discovering the very best climbing sandals for you includes a number of elements, together with your foot form and anatomy, private preferences, and the varieties of adventures you intend to undertake. Our high decisions are based mostly on years of path expertise, together with a devoted testing part throughout which we evaluated every pair of sandals for consolation, stability, traction, sturdiness, weight, packability, and ease of use, using an expert-developed testing methodology.
