Move over, Birkenstock - hiking sandals are the 'must-have' shoe for style and comfort in the summer heat

With no sign of summer temperatures fading, a pair of hiking sandals is a good bet for staying comfortable while walking in the city or on the trails. There's no need to keep your feet cocooned in walking shoes, as comfortable as they are, when many sandals offer the same level of toe protection and arch support.

I'm a keen hiker in the Pennine and Peak District in England, and no stranger to the great outdoors year-round. But I especially love climbing the hills with my walking poles come summer. After a day of fresh air, sunshine, and endorphins, I return feeling renewed. Having the correct footwear is undoubtedly key to making this a success, whatever the weather.

I have done the groundwork to help you find the right hiking sandals by reviewing over a dozen of the most popular hiking sandals (and shandals - a sandal-shoe hybrid) from big brands like Hoka, Merrell, Teva and Keen. The round-up includes a cross-section of budgets and styles, from minimalist to closed-toe, but they all provide breathability, support and comfort so you can hike with confidence this summer.

Top 3

The best hiking sandals for women in 2026

The best hiking sandals overall

The Terra Fi 5 Universal is one of Teva’s bestselling hiking sandals, so it would seem imprudent not to consider them when thinking about what to wear hiking. And having tested them, these hiking sandals do live up to the hype.

The first thing that struck me is that the Terra Fi 5 is a good-looking sandal, successfully combining practicality and style, which is hard to come by across the wider range of hiking sandals. Plenty of sizing options exist and four colourways, including neutral, blue, red and black. In the sea of pink and purple-tinted women's hiking sandals, these are a welcome addition.

Two adjustable straps, one on a slant just below the toes and the other over the front of the ankle, provide support, while the midsole arch makes for super comfortable striding even over rockier terrains with plenty of traction provided by the outer sole. Although your toes are exposed, the front of the sandal does lift a little, which helps to protect them. They are a natural fit for smoother paths and walkways.

These sandals are more expensive than some others on the list at £90, but as you would hope, these are durable and feel like they are made to last. And unlike some hiking sandals, these can comfortably be worn sightseeing and in social situations, not just out on the trail, so you do get your money's worth.

The best sandals for long hikes

If your hike involves long walks or particularly rocky terrain, a closed-toe, supportive sandal like the Keen Hyperport H2 is the best option to avoid turning your ankle. It combines the protective elements of a hiking shoe with the open, airy elements of a sandal. I'm a big fan, and it rivals the Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal for the top spot.

On first glance, you might think the style and colour options of these sandals are 'a bit much'. However, if you're anything like me, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how much you like the look of them when they're on. They are also considerably lighter and more versatile than the traditional Keen Newport H2 sandals, blending ruggedness with agility to help you move with ease.

Based on Keen’s Newport sandal, the Hyperport H2 includes additional features that make this a premium, must-have sandal for those who enjoy hiking longer distances in warmer weather. There is an air-injected foam midsole, which I found added comfort to the overall shoe and additional support underfoot on rockier terrains. Do not be deterred by the fact they don't have straps either. The mesh upper and mesh heel pull loop mean there's plenty of stretch when you put them on, and the pull bungee laces mean you can adjust them for the right fit. Overall, I found them to be incredibly supportive around the midfoot and upper, more so than some other hiking sandals I've tried with Velcro, and the design looks more seamless and mature thanks to these fixings.

The best hiking sandals on a budget

Decathlon is one of my go-to stores for active and outdoor clothing and equipment - they sell everything from the best sports bras to fitness trackers - so it's rare I don’t emerge from the store clasping a new addition for my hiking or camping stash. I rate this brand so highly because of the quality you can expect at an affordable price point - and the Quechua NH500 sandals are a case in point.

Even at full price, the hiking sandals are under £30. For that, you get cushioning through double EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) soles, a non-slip grip and two adjustable rip tabs, beneath the toes and across the front of the ankle.

As Decathlon suggests, these hiking sandals are not designed for mountain trails and elevation gains, but they are ideal for days out, sightseeing and weekend walks. As the weather warmed up over the last few weeks, I was grateful to have them on my feet as the two singular straps ensure the sandals are breathable and they don't chafe as you walk. They aren't going to win awards for support or appearance - though they do look similar to some fashionable Teva sandals I've worn - but that's not what they are for.

They also don't look out of place running errands. While I personally prefer wider straps as they feel more secure, they did not rub or slip on a walk through uneven woodland, so I reckon they could fair well on shorter hikes and through woodland or woody park terrains. In short, these make a great everyday option if you're on a budget.

The best hiking sandal for the beach

These sandals - or shandals to give them their correct title as they are a sandal/shoe hybrid - looked a little out of place when I tried them out on my walks in Greater Manchester. As the name suggests, the Seaside Drainage Shandals in their bright teal colour are made with beach holidays, coastal paths and shoreline strolls in mind.

I might not live near the seaside, but I did wear them to cross a stream during one of my walks and living in the North of England, I'm used to wet weather. They did indeed allow the water to pass through the drainage holes and remained comfortable to wear even when damp. My feet also dried quickly thanks to the synthetic neoprene lining and lightweight outer materials. If I had any niggles about these shandals, it would my middle toe on both sides seemed to be trying to escape through one of the gaps - but it was not uncomfortable and this comes down to more personal fit than anything else.

I personally love the pop of colour. While it is bold, I'm so used to seeing tonal colours and pops of pink and purple that a bright teal is a welcome sight. Many of the best swimwear brands for 2024 have also included the tone in their palette, so you may find a matching swimsuit too. If tonal is more your style though, the Regatta Haris sandals come exclusively in muted shades, as do the Teva sandals.

The best Merrell hiking sandal

As you would expect from a trusted brand such as Merrell, the Kahuna III hiking sandals do not disappoint. At woman&home, we're big fans of the brand - with the Merrell Moab Speed 2 and other hiking shoes frequently making the top of our best-of lists.

I would describe the Kahuna III as grown-up sandals for serious walking, which means they are functional - if not the most decorative - sandals. Despite their bulky appearance, they feel lightweight and agile on foot, even over rockier terrains.

Available in three tones, there are two adjustable hooks, loop straps, and clasps across the toes and over the front of the foot, so I felt very secure during my walks. Although they provide minimal toe protection, there is plenty of grip on the inner sole and traction grip on the outer sole. They have also been made with waterside activities in mind, which I found incredibly useful when walking on changeable terrain.

I felt I could walk and walk in these sandals, so they are a great choice for longer hikes or lengthy city walks. On one of my trips, I was out for three hours, which included a pretty steep, hilly incline (and descent), but there was no sign of rubbing. At £100, these are one of the more expensive hiking sandal options, but loyal customers will rave about how durable they are, how long they last, and ultimately how wonderfully comfortable they are, so you can think of them as investment footwear.

The best hiking sandal for city walks

If you are looking for versatile hiking sandals for everyday support, then the Keen Uneek Sneaker is the choice of Digital Health Editor Grace Walsh. She says these are just as suitable to wear around town as on the trails, blending comfort with new-age style.

In 2026, hiking gear has made its way into mainstream fashion. Just look at the continuing popularity of the Salmon XT-6 trainers, she says. "These hiking sandals have a really unique, structured look to them, made from two sets of cords pulled over the supportive rubber sole. While you can feel the breeze through your toes, the design means they don't look like sandals until you get up close. This makes them suitable to wear with casual or smarter clothing as well as hiking gear. They are also undoubtedly some of the most comfortable shoes I've worn, full stop, let alone sandals," says Grace.

The colour options, from this earthy brown to pastel pinks and greens, only add to this. "I have them in black, and they fit just as well into my wardrobe as any pair of trail running or hiking shoes I have," says Grace. "I've worn them on the streets of Barcelona and Rome, and strolling through tiny towns in the Dolomites. Each time, I've been so grateful I packed them in my suitcase."

The only downside of these hiking sandals, she says, is that they won't be suitable for any challenging terrain. The sole is much too flat. These don't have the same lug system as others, like the Hoka Hopara, so they won't have the same grip on more rocky, muddy, or wet surfaces.

The best Hoka hiking sandal

Another shandal to add to the mix is Hoka’s super stylish Hopara - a closed toe option that provides the protection of a shoe with the breathability of a sandal. It should be noted, these are the most expensive option in this round-up at £105, but as you would hope at that price, you can expect to wear and wear this footwear and feel assured doing so.

Sold as a ‘true outdoor explorer,’ these have been created for tackling all terrains and to provide comfort whatever the weather throws at you - thankfully, as I got caught in the rain several times while testing these out. They felt snug around the heel and midfoot when I was walking, offering great support but not feeling too tight. The material also provides flexibility for your foot so you can move with even the most unstable terrain, without losing confidence in your ankles. I've tested many hiking boots and shoes over the last few years and even the most highly-rated of these sometimes fail to deliver on this, so I was very impressed.

Instead of adjustable straps, there is a quick lace system, which you pull to adjust and can then niftily tuck the lace away. Much like the Keen hiking sandals, this makes the design look much more streamlined and mature than some of the other sandals out there with velcro support. There is also plenty of cushioning due to the rubberised EVA midsole, as well as a substantial toe cap to keep your toes well protected.

Admittedly, these are not the most understated footwear and they might be a little too bulky for some people, but they are available in a range of colours and an impressively inclusive array of sizes. Expect compliments when you are on the move too, as these can prove quite the talking point when you are out and about.

Hoka is a top-rated hiking brand around the world and, much like Merrell, we love it's selection of hiking attire here at woman&home. Health Editor Grace Walsh has several pairs of the best running shoes and hiking boots from Hoka, each pair offering comfort and incredible support with every step.

The best sustainable hiking sandals

The Wildsole Mamtor Sandals might be minimalist - but don’t underestimate them. They are multi-functional sandals designed to be worn in all elements and on all terrains. Made in Yorkshire, the owners wanted to create the UK’s first barefoot sandals, rather than ship them in from the States to reduce air missiles and associated emissions. There are now seven unisex models, including the Mamtor, which I tried.

To be honest, it is the first time I have tried barefoot shoes of any kind so I was intrigued to know what they would feel like. So far, after just a couple of walks, I'm impressed. The simple strap sits between your toes (like a flip-flop) and stretches behind your ankle. It can be adjusted if needed. As your toes are not constrained, they can move freely and spread naturally as you walk, which is the benefit of such minimal support.

Though you can technically run and jump in these flexible sandals, it's not something I've tried yet, so can't comment on their durability across more vigorous types of exercise. I have spent an entire day walking in them, however, and it's been something of a revelation. On a summer’s walk, it feels incredible to be barefoot but safe in the knowledge your soles are protected from whatever might be on the ground. And as they are so light, you can easily stow them in your rucksack when heading out on adventures or as an alternative shoe on holiday.

I wouldn't recommend them for any seriously long hikes or walks across any hazardous terrains. As you can probably guess by their appearance, they are better suited to beach and city walks - provided there's little debris on the pavements - and best paired with a pair of black gym leggings, perhaps. For anything more than a walk, I'd suggest an alternative option like the Merrell Kahuna III or the Teva Terra Fi 5 Universal.

The best lightweight hiking sandal

My first takeaway on trying Helly Hanse’s Capilano F2F sandals is just how light they are, given that the straps and sole look and feel comparatively substantial. They are sold as a day hiker, which is how I tested them, and I found they did a superb job.

There are two adjustable straps, one around the front of the ankle, and the other on a slight diagonal beneath the toes, so they are easy to put on. I particularly like the arch and cushioning, which felt plush but incredibly supportive. Combined, it's a design that makes for comfortable walking, especially when you are out for a few hours. My feet did not slip on the inner sole and although my toes were exposed, the sandals provide some toe protection as they lift at the front to help combat stubbing.

They are made from recycled synthetic material and sold as quick drying, which I found true after mistakenly stepping into puddles after a summer shower. I was also impressed that the straps stayed in place and didn't rub my feet when they got wet, which was a huge benefit as this happened earlier in the day. Although support and comfort are always key, I feel points should always be awarded if that can be combined with style - and I think the lighter cactus green shade is a spot-on colourway that's both low-key and unique. Overall, this is a versatile sandal you can wear with confidence.

The best hiking sandal for running

The Aventrail sandal was designed to bridge the gap between existing running sandal designs, which usually take a minimalist approach with thin soles and no support and the modern trend of maximalist trail running shoes, says fellow tester Julia.

"The well-cushioned midsole is closer to what you might expect from a modern trail running shoe like the Hoka Mach range, and comes with a nylon plate to improve responsiveness. The underfoot package is completed with a rubber outsole and tiered traction lugs for extra grip on the trails," she says.

"As a sandal, you automatically experience increased breathability compared to the upper of a running shoe, and the knit fabric used for the straps improves on this further, which is especially appealing for running in warmer climates," she says.

How we tested the best hiking sandals for women

As a keen hiker, an outdoor enthusiast, and a journalist, I combine my personal and professional interests by trialling products and speaking to industry experts for their insights. For this review, I consulted outdoor professionals on what factors to consider when looking for a first-rate pair of hiking sandals.

Then, I wore each pair of hiking sandals for two walks minimum. The first was a shorter distance, sometimes-early-morning walk to get my initial impressions of the hiking sandals, and the second for a minimum of an hour, often longer, across varied terrain, whether woodland, grass, gravel, tarmac and on occasion through water, too.

I reviewed each pair with the expert’s advice in mind including my recommendations:

• Comfort: When you are out walking and hiking, it is essential your feet feel as comfortable as possible. I noted how comfortable they were at all stages, from the initial try-on to how my feet felt at the end of a walk, including breathability, slippage and any rubbing.
• Support: Support is essential when buying hiking sandals, so when reviewing the hiking sandals, I considered the sturdiness of the straps, the inner sole and outer sole, including the type of grip offered, and whether there was arch support, too.
• Materials: Hiking sandals need to be breathable, fast-drying and durable, so I considered the types of fabric (whether synthetic, mesh or leather etc) and how they felt during each walk.
• Versatility: I wore these hiking sandals on various types of terrain, including pavement, grass, hills and moorland, evaluating how they adapted to the setting, whether they were strictly hiking sandals or could be worn every day, and how easy they were to put on and take off.
• RRP: As with any outdoor wear, prices for hiking sandals can vary as much as the styles on offer. I took this into consideration when reviewing the hiking sandals, ensuring a wide range of price points were included.
• Additional details: I have highlighted whether the hiking sandals have any additional details worth noting, for example unique styles and colourways or particularly inclusive sizing.

How to choose the best hiking sandals for you

• Think about the terrain and distance: "Ensure you choose an appropriate sandal. Do you need sandals for simple terrains, like grass and beach hikes or multi-day long-distance hikes? I don’t wear sandals when hiking over more complex terrain like rocky mountains,” says Carla Khouri, a qualified outdoor instructor and community lead at Merrell Hiking Club.
• Consider cushioning: “If you are walking longer distances you may want to consider a more cushioned sole, although these can be a little heavier than a non-cushioned sole,” says Khouri.
• Think about your toes: “If you choose an open-toe sandal, look for a slightly raised area at the front, which will help to protect your toes against rocks and roots. Closed-toed sandals offer more protection and will help prevent small pebbles, twigs, etc, from getting under your foot,” adds Khouri.
• Focus on functionality over fashion: "Look out for practical materials – either fast-drying synthetics or waterproof leather,” says Steve Davies, the purchasing and commercial manager for Trekitt. "If you are likely getting wet (rivers, beaches, rain), look at materials like neoprene. Some fabric straps are lined with neoprene so that your foot is still held in place even when wet," adds Khouri.
• Check the sole for grip: "We always advise looking for sandals with a proper hiking sole. When choosing a pair, easy things to look for are the contouring of the sole and whether it offers any arch support around the midfoot. Also underneath, whether it has plenty of tread to ensure the sandals provide good grip on slippery surfaces," says Davies.
• Socks or no socks: "Wearing socks can reduce the risk of any straps rubbing and causing blisters. They also protect a little more against insects or debris on the path. It might be worth wearing the sandals with socks around the house until you’re confident you’ve broken them in fully,” says Davies. “However, socks limit the breathability of hiking sandals, and if you’re walking near water, they can get wet and dry slowly, which can often cause blisters or rubbing.”

How should hiking sandals fit?

When trying on hiking sandals, the best plan is to have your feet expertly measured. If this is not an option for you or you're looking to buy online, make sure you measure your feet and check these measurements against the size guide given online as sizes and fits vary between brands, says Davies.

"When trying them on, you want the sandals to fit snugly but not with any pressure points or tight areas. Most models will have adjustable straps, so we advise tweaking these to achieve the right fit and then try walking around on a carpeted area to make sure they feel comfortable," he says.

"Make sure your heel isn’t lifting at the back of the sandal and that you have plenty of room for your toes at the front. Your toes shouldn’t be right to the edge of the sandal as this reduces how protected they are," he says.

There also should not be any side-to-side movement of your foot, says Khouri. "Your foot should not slide forward or backwards when walking on a slope. Also, look for reviews to find out about a sandal's real-life performance and whether a model is true to size. Also, look at the retailer's return policy so you can replace them if they are not right for you."

Hiking sandals vs hiking boots

"Unlike a standard sandal or flip-flop, a hiking sandal will be optimised to offer excellent underfoot comfort and greater stability, so they are a really good choice if you’re walking off-road. For more technical terrain or routes that take you into the hills and mountains, we would always recommend wearing a walking shoe or hiking boot which provides greater cushioning underfoot and offers increased protection from scree and loose rock,” says Davies.

"If you are carrying a heavy backpack (going rucking, for example, or using a weighted vest for walking), hiking sandals will not be suitable and you should ideally choose a higher cut boot that provides maximum stability and ankle protection. You can always take your hiking sandals with you on overnight treks though, they are great for giving feet a rest from your boots while relaxing at camp."