Are you looking for a lightweight, breathable, and comfortable way to traverse the hot, arid desert terrain? You may have heard of the trend of wearing sandals while hiking, but you’re not sure if it’s a good idea or not. Well, there is no doubt that with the right sandal, it can be a fantastic way to explore the deserts.
Benefits of wearing hiking sandals in the desert
When it comes to comfort, breathability and protection, hiking sandals can be a great choice for desert hikes. Because of their open design, you can expect continuous ventilation to your feet, which helps keep your feet cool even in the hottest climates. With the minimal design, your feet will remain spacious and comfortable when travelling over rocky and sandy terrain. As far as protection goes, hiking sandals provide protection for your feet against sharp rocks and boulders through their specially designed outsole.
Hiking sandals are also lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great choice for desert hikes. They are also easy to clean and maintain, so you can keep them looking and feeling great for years to come. Additionally, they are often more affordable than other types of hiking shoes, making them a great option for those on a budget.
What to look for when choosing hiking sandals for desert hikes
The key to selecting the right sandal for desert hiking is the type of sole. Look for hiking sandals with large lugs or cleats that are spaced apart to provide better grip. This will give you better grip on loose terrain such as sand or gravel. Additionally, consider investing in a sandal with an ankle strap. This can reduce your risk of twisting an ankle or losing your sandal while scrambling over rocks.
Advantages and disadvantages of wearing hiking sandals compared to other types of footwear
Hiking sandals offer many advantages over traditional boots or shoes when it comes to desert hikes. The breathable nature of the sandals allows your feet to stay dry and cool. Additionally, the lightweight design increases comfort on long hikes. The main disadvantage is that they may not provide as much stability as a boot on rough terrain. For this reason, it’s important to wear proper ankle protection and always practice caution.
Tips for wearing hiking sandals in the desert
When you are wearing hiking sandals in the desert , there are certain steps you can take to ensure maximum safety and comfort. For starters, make sure the fit is snug and secure. You don’t want your feet to slip around or have areas rubbed raw due to too much room in the sandal. Secondly, consider applying waterproofing spray to your sandals before and during your hike. This will help protect them from dirt and debris.
Types of terrain suitable for hiking sandals on desert hikes
Hiking sandals can be worn on a variety of terrains while hiking in the desert, but they may be best suited for terrain that is often loose or sandy such as dunes, hills, or beaches. They may also be suitable for moderate trail hiking if the ground isn’t too rocky.
Best practices for caring for and maintaining your hiking sandals
Taking care of your hiking sandals is essential for their longevity and comfort. It is best to not wear your sandals two days in a row so as to allow them to dry fully between use. Additionally, after washing your sandals with warm water, use a cloth and soft brush to remove any dirt or grit from the sole. Lastly, it’s important to use a leather conditioner to keep the straps supple.
How to select the right size and fit of hiking sandals
When selecting the right size and fit of hiking sandals, you should measure your feet width and length with the proper measuring tools before buying a new pair. Additionally, when trying on sandals make sure they fit securely on your feet without being too tight or too loose. Additionally, consider trying them on with socks as you may need extra padding in hot climates.
Alternatives to using hiking sandals on desert hikes
Alternative footwear options for desert hikes include closed-toe shoes like trail running shoes or lightweight boots. Trail running shoes offer additional stability on rocky terrain and are great for those who don’t feel comfortable in sandals. Hikers turned off by how lightweight hiking sandals can be may opt for boots instead as they offer more protection from hazards like water, mud, and sharp rocks.
Whether you choose to wear hiking sandals or an alternative type of footwear on desert hikes, it’s important that it fits well and is comfortable. Fantastic hiking sandals can provide excellent breathability, comfort and grip making them a great choice for exploring the deserts. Hopefully this article has provided some insight into whether hikers should opt for sandals on their desert hikes.
