Can You Hike In Sandals?
We all know that proper footwear is super important when hiking (if not, check out “Are Hiking Boots Necessary? Hiking Boot’s Benefits And Alternatives” post). But can you hike in sandals?
The short answer is that it depends.
Many factors can help decide if wearing sandals makes sense for your hike, such as:
- What type of sandals you are hiking in.
- What environment you are exploring.
- How long have you been using the sandals, and the distance you plan on trekking.
Not to worry though I will go through all of this to help you decided if sandals make sense for your next hike!
What Type Of Sandals Can You Wear Hiking?
If you want to hike in sandals, you need to be wearing sandals that are, you guessed it, MADE FOR HIKING!
Hiking sandals are designed with long-distance walks in mind with a much thicker sole with, better tread, and more foot support than your average beach sandal.
That means leave your Gucci slides and flip flops at home. They are no good on the trail!
What Environments Are Best For Hiking In Sandals:
Some of the best environments to wear hiking sandals include:
- Warmer desert-like environments
- Areas with river or water crossings
- Straightforward terrain with few rock scrambles.
Hiking Sandals For Desert Environments:
Hiking sandals can work great in a desert environment. As opposed to the traditional hiking boot, where your feet can overheat and get all sweaty, hiking sandals let your little piggies breathe.
Another great thing about wearing sandals for desert hikes is that you don’t have to deal with little rocks and sand getting into your hiking boots, as sandals allow that stuff to fall out as easily as it comes in.
Hiking Sandals For Water Crossings:
Hiking sandals are the obvious go-to footwear whenever you are hiking in an area that requires a lot of water crossings, the reason being:
- You don’t have to worry about walking around for miles with wet socks and boots you would have if you wore boots
- You don’t have to deal with taking off your boots at every water crossing to keep them dry. You can just hike through with your sandals!
Hiking Sandals For Scrambling:
Hiking sandals are best suited for a milder terrain that doesn’t require much scrambling or climbing. Although the tread on hiking sandals is much better compared to others, they are not optimal for steep scramble, leaving you susceptible to slipping and missteps.
How Long Have You Been Hiking In Sandals And How Far Is Your Hike?
Like all shoes hiking sandals take time to break-in. Unlike all shoes, the areas where sandal straps contact your feet create several hot spots, such as the heel, pinky toe, and big toe. This means it is essential to have hiking sandals that fit and are broken-in before hiking.
I made this mistake when hiking through Arches National Park. Here, I went on an eight mile hike for the first time in my Chacos, and man, did my feet hurt!
Do not be like me. If you are new to hiking in sandals, I would start by wearing them around your house to get a feel for them and learn how they fit best for your foot. Then work your way up to short hikes, day hikes, and backpacking trips. Some people even thru-hike in sandals!
Recap: Cons Of Wearing Hiking Sandals:
Like all hiking gear, there are plenty of pros and cons to everything you buy. But the two big cons of hiking sandals are that they are
- Not as versatile as hiking boots: Not great in rainy/colder weather or technical scrambles.
- Take some time getting used to: MUST properly fit and be broken in, or you shall be in pain!
- Less support and protection: It should be no surprise that open hiking sandals do not lend the same protection as a full-fledged hiking boot.
Recap: Pros Of Hiking Sandals:
- Cool: Hiking sandals keep your feet nice and cool in warmer climates.
- Very comfortable: When they properly fit and are broken in.
- SICK TAN LINES!
Best Hiking Sandal Brands
Things To Know Before Buying A Pair Of Hiking Sandals
Hiking sandals are not something you want to order online blindly. Go to your local REI or outdoor store and try the different brands available and see which size and brand fit best for your feet. After you know the brand and size, go online to buy the style that looks best for you. Because looking good matters too!
