If you’ve ever wondered if you can really hike in sandals, the answer is yes! While no shoe will make a challenging trail an easy one, wearing the right sandals on the trails can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of hiking in sandals and provide some tips for choosing and caring for the right type for you.
The Pros and Cons of Hiking in Sandals
Hiking in sandals definitely has its merits. They are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, allowing your feet to stay cool, even on those hot summer days. Sandals are also much faster to put on and take off than regular shoes and can help decrease your fatigue on a long hike.
On the other hand, there are some drawbacks to wearing sandals. For starters, sandals offer far less protection and support than regular footwear. They provide less traction, particularly on wet and slippery surfaces, and generally offer less stability, which can lead to an increased risk of injury. Sandals also have a shorter life span, so they will wear out faster than other shoe types.
Different Types of Sandals for Hiking
When it comes to sandals, there are a few different types that are ideal for hiking. Hiking sandals are designed to give more ankle support and better grip than regular sandals. Trail sandals provide better durability and can withstand tough terrain and various weather conditions. Water sandals offer lightweight construction, excellent traction, and great drainage. Lastly, sport sandals provide excellent arch support and cushioning as well as ample grip on various surfaces.
How to Choose the Right Sandal for Hiking
When looking for the right sandal for your hike, it’s important to consider the type of terrain you’ll be covering, your level of activity, and the weather conditions. For instance, if you’re tackling a particularly rocky path, it’s best to opt for trail sandals that feature aggressive tread patterns, reinforced construction, and all-round protection.
If you’ll be trekking through streams and streams or mud, opt for a pair of water sandals with good grip and great drainage capacity. However, if you’re doing more leisurely legwork like walking on forested trails or city streets, sport sandals provide adequate comfort and stability.
What to Look For in a Sandal for Hiking
When selecting the right hiking sandal, there are a few key considerations you should take into account. Firstly, your sandal should be supportive enough to prevent your feet from fatiguing quickly. It should also be lightweight enough to avoid added fatigue over long distances. Additionally, your sandal should be adjustable enough to provide the right fit without causing any blisters or hotspots.
Your sole should also be thick enough to stand up to both everyday stumbles as well as long-term wear and tear. Additionally, it should have aggressive tread patterns to provide excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces alike. Lastly, it should offer waterproofing as well as breathability to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout your hikes.
Safety Considerations When Hiking in Sandals
It goes without saying that when it comes to hiking, safety is paramount. In addition to choosing the right sandal for the terrain—with good grip, cushioning and adequate ankle support—it’s also important to pay attention to your footing. Make sure to watch where you step and take caution when crossing streams or navigating wet terrain.
Also, be sure to check your sandal’s fit before setting out on your hike. To ensure the most secure fit, use a lighter sock or tight-fitting liner in your sandal. Additionally, use a secure knotting technique for lacing up your sandal and test that it is secure by giving it a few walking steps before setting off.
Popular Brands of Sandals for Hiking
When looking for the right hiking sandal, there are many reputable brands to choose from. A few of the most popular include Merrell, Teva, Keen, Chaco, and Columbia. Merrell offers hiking sandals with superior arch support and cushioning while Teva has a great selection of both lightweight and supportive options. Keen caters to all kinds of terrains while Chaco offers ultra-lightweight models.
Tips for Caring for Your Sandals After a Hike
When it comes to caring for your sandals after a hike, it’s important to pay attention to their materials and construction. Dirt build-up can cause unnecessary wear and tear which will shorten the lifespan of your sandals, so remove dirt and debris regularly with a soft brush or damp cloth.
Additionally, applying waterproofing treatment when necessary will help prevent drying out and cracking. If you do find yourself with wet sandals, make sure you hang them up in an airy spot away from direct heat sources such as radiators or fireplaces.
Alternatives to Sandals for Hiking
If you’re worried about the lack of protection or support that comes with wearing sandals on the trails, there are other footwear options available. Trail running shoes are lightweight yet supportive and provide ample cushioning as well as good grip. Hiking boots will provide more stabilization as well as protection against rocks and sticks.
Whichever footwear option you choose, make sure they fit well and comfortable and allow you to adequately feel the terrain beneath you. That way, you can enjoy all the benefits of hiking while keeping yourself safe.
