Hiking sandals are becoming increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts, with more and more people wanting to try their hand at long-distance hiking without the usual discomfort of regular hiking shoes. But are sandals really the best footwear to wear while trekking many miles over difficult terrain? We’re here to find out.
Benefits of Hiking Sandals
The main benefit of hiking sandals is that their open-toed design, combined with the waterproof or water-resistant materials they are made from, allows your feet to breathe better than if you were wearing normal shoes. This means that your feet will stay cooler and dryer during hikes, even in humid conditions. Additionally, many models come with midsole cushioning to absorb impact when hiking over rough terrain, making them comfortable to wear even over longer distances.
Another advantage of hiking sandals is their lightweight design, as they usually weigh less than regular hiking shoes, which can be a great boon when carrying heavy packs. Plus, they often require little to no breaking in versus regular shoes, so you can wear them right away without the usual blisters and pinching.
Limitations of Hiking Sandals
Unfortunately, there are also some downsides to wearing hiking sandals. Their very design limits their ability to provide ankle support in rocky terrain, meaning that hikers have to be extra vigilant in their technique and footing. Also, some footwear companies have yet to make hiking sandals with waterproof uppers – or with insulation for cold weather – so wet conditions and snow hikes may be difficult or impossible with sandals.
Finding the Right Hiking Sandal
When shopping for hiking sandals, the biggest factor to consider is your intended use: are you a casual hiker doing day hikes in warm weather; or do you plan on taking on more arduous trips in cold climates? Different sandals will be made to fit different requirements, so make sure to read up on materials, features and areas of protection offered.
Fit is also key when it comes to sandals. Make sure the straps don’t pinch your feet and that the lacing system stays secure throughout the hike. For walks in exposed terrain like a beach, check that your sandal provides enough traction to its sole. Finally, look into the support and cushioning offered by each sandal as well as its breathability and water-resistance.
Differences Between Hiking Shoes and Hiking Sandals
There are several key differences between regular hiking shoes and sandals. Shoes offer full ankle support for stability and confidence when walking, whereas sandals lack this vital support from the ankle down. This not only affects stability but also increases the risk of ankle and foot injuries. On the other hand, sandals provide greater range of motion in the ankle joint compared to shoes.
The material used in regular shoes offer better protection against water, mud and cold temperatures than the materials used in sandals. Shoes provide more insulation than sandals, which can be vital in cold weather hikes. Finally, shoes offer a more rigid structure than sandals, improving traction on uneven surfaces and loose ground.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Hiking Sandal
The most important thing when it comes to wearing hiking sandals is to ensure your lacing system is securely fastened throughout the hike. Furthermore, wear socks during the hike – either light cotton or wool socks – for improved comfort, thermal insulation and blister reduction.
When choosing a route, try to stick to trails that are less prone to rocks and where you’re less likely to twist or turn your ankle. If you’re worried about slipperiness on wet surfaces, opt for foam or rubber hiking sandals with a greater tread depth to provide better grip in these conditions.
Accessories and Maintenance for Hiking Sandals
Hikers can benefit from wearing gaiters over their sandals to protect their feet from rocks, mud and prickly plants. Gaiters come in different styles specifically designed for use with open-toed footwear. Additionally, learn how to tailor your sandal lacing system to your foot shape, as this will give better security and fit.
To keep your hiking sandals in good condition after a long day’s hike, rinse them off with cold water and let them air-dry overnight before any mud or dirt has a chance of drying into them. Additionally, apply waterproofing agent once every couple of months to keep the waterproof quality of your sandals intact. Finally, remember to regularly check that the straps are free of deterioration or excessive wear.
Long-Distance Hiking Safety Tips with Hiking Sandals
Long-distance hikes present an additional challenge when wearing sandals: fatigue. While it’s still important to vigilance against ankle injuries at each step when walking on rougher terrain, it’s necessary to be aware of fatigue-related risks on longer hikes where more energy is expended. Make sure you stick to a sensible pace and don’t forget to take regular breaks throughout the day.
If the weather or terrain conditions are tough, it might be better to stick with regular hiking shoes in order to provide additional safety for ankles and feet. Additionally, consider investing in trekking poles for additional balance in rough or slippery conditions.
In summary, for those who want less restriction than regular hiking shoes offer but still want to take on long-distance hikes, hiking sandals can provide an ideal solution. With proper maintenance, choice of trails and plenty of breaks throughout the day, long-distance hikers can find solace in these lightweight and comfy outdoor shoes.
