When the weather finally gets warm enough there's nothing better than the feeling of liberating your feet from those clammy socks and stuffy shoes and letting the air waft around your pinkies on a balmy summer's day.
How to buy sandals for hiking and cycling
Some people still favour boots and shoes for hiking and cycling but those that like to feel the air between their toes should apply much the same theory as they do to buying any other outdoor footwear. Look for a good outsole with deep, grippy lugs and some stiffness in the midsole for support across rough terrain. Also look for stability in the straps with coverage around the backs of the feet, over the top and around the toes. When your feet are sweaty they tend to slide around even more so it's vital that the insole has some form to it that replicates the contours of the feet to hold them in place. If you're going to be walking through dry, dusty terrain with loose stones then a good toe bumper and more strap than not is probably a good idea, remember shackets? Well, shandals are a thing now too!
Sandals for watersports
If you're going to be kayaking, canoeing or simply paddling in the water then make sure the materials are maximised for quick drying and easy draining as well as being lightweight so they don't unnecessarily drag you down.
And don't forget the beach...
Of course, looks are always important and some of the better sandals for hiking aren't going to win any fashion contests so you'd be wise to pack a casual pair too for strutting your stuff on the beach.
We've scoured the catalogues of the top outdoor brands and picked out and tested our favourite sandals for the summer ahead, read on for the reviews.
Best for watersports
Merrell Choprock Shandal | £100
With materials specifically chosen for their fast-drying properties and a sticky, deeply lugged sole these are great sandals for mixed water and hiking holidays. The stretchy mesh upper and drawstring lacing are perfect for slipping your feet in and out when wet and there are just enough cut-outs for these to be considered sandals, but what’s left protects your feet from debris, bolstered by the chunky rand up front.
Verdict
Supportive and protective for mixed water and hiking holidays.
Best for the beach
Protest Pingaa | £25
Get your beach stride on with Protest’s Pingaa flip flops. A soft moulded leather footbed holds your feet firmly in place and double canvas straps look great but also add a little stability and protection. Lightly lugged rubber soles add a touch of grip on beach promenades and a light weight makes them easy to chuck in your suitcase for warm weather trips.
Verdict
Classic flip flop styling for lazy days at the beach
Best for hiking
Teva Strata Universal | £85
With Vibram Megagrip soles and micro traction lugs these are much more than just beach sandals. Classic Universal straps are time-served, they work well and are comfortable in possibly some of the trickiest environments - when your feet are hot and sweaty and there’s debris flying around. The sole is as good as most lightweight hiking shoes, with cushioning, stability and traction all in the mix, as well as Microban antimicrobial (anti stink) tech in the footbed.
Verdict
Excellent lightweight hiking sandals that offer sure footed traction and stability.
Best for camping
Oboz Campster | £75
After a hard day of adventure a comfortable airy, lightweight sandal is an amazing thing to slip your feet into. And one of the best options, whether for the hotel or campsite is the Campster from Oboz which takes the classic clog design and adds a few neat touches to add extra performance. First off they only weigh 260g which feels feather light on your feet and in your pack - a definite bonus. The polyester webbing lets your feet breath but doesn't feel as sweaty as plastic and there's a sturdy toe bumper for protection. Around the back there's a pivoting heel strap which can be moved up for easy on/off or placed around the back of the heel to keep your foot firmly in place. The outsole and midsole are surprisingly sturdy for a lightweight clog with good grip and stability for walking.
Verdict
Chuck these in your pack and after a hard day's hiking you'll feel as smug as a dog with two tails.
