If you enjoy the comfort of sandals in the spring and summer yet crave more toe protection for active pursuits, closed toe walking sandals are for you! The perfect middle ground between flip flops and sport sandals, closed toe walking sandals combine the classic ease of thong sandals with the foot coverage of a regular shoe. Keep reading to learn more about how to pick the right style, plus reviews of the 10 best closed toe walking sandals out there.
What to Look for in a Closed Toe Walking Sandal
When shopping for closed toe walking sandals, there are a few key features to keep in mind:
- Good quality lacing systems for a snug fit.
- Comfort-oriented soles with good tread that are slip-resistant, shock-absorbing, and gripping for different terrain.
- An upper with breathable material and arch, ankle, and lateral support.
Basically, the best closed toe walking sandal should provide the same sort of cushion and support as a quality sneaker. With that said, many higher end closed toe walking sandals offer extra features like exceptional cushioning and quick-drying fabric.
Types of Closed Toe Walking Sandals
Lightweight: These are perfect if you don’t need heavy cushioning. If you plan on mainly wearing your walking sandals around town or on short treks, then go for lightweight.
Stability: Look for increased cushioning and comfort support if you’re going on longer walks or hikes. Opt for stability to make sure your toes don’t get sore from extended use.
Neutral: Neutral walking sandals provide neither cushioning nor stability. They’re great for casual wear and everyday use.
Benefits of a Closed Toe Walking Sandal
- Maximum protection for your feet against rocks and debris—but still breathable.
- Comfortable fit around your feet and toes.
- Suitable for hiking, running errands, enjoying outdoor activities, and more.
Best Closed Toe Walking Sandals for Women
- Teva Women’s Hurricane XLT: This lightweight walking sandal features a waterproof-mesh upper providing moisture protection while still allowing your feet to breathe. The outsole provides good traction while the cushioned foam midsole provides great arch support. Plus, the Teva-patented elastic webbing is great for an adjustable fit.
- Vionic Women’s Loire Navy Sandal: This closed toe sandal includes Vionic’s biomechanical orthotic footbed technology which helps to promote natural alignment from heel to toe. With its EVA outsole and breathable mesh upper, this walking sandal not only looks great but also provides unbeatable comfort. It’s perfect for all day wear!
- Keen Women’s Emma Mid WP Leather Sandal: One of the best walking sandals around, the Keen Women’s Emma includes breathable leather and mesh upper, adjustable hook-and-loop straps, an EVA midsole for beyond comfortable cushioning and support, plus an aggressive rubber outsole for superior traction.
Best Closed Toe Walking Sandals for Men
- Keen Men’s Arroyo II Sandal: This shoe provides superior grip and traction with its top-notch rubber outsole that features 4mm multi-directional lugs. The adjustable hook-and-loop strap and breathable mesh upper offer the perfect fit while the washable polyester webbing is great for keeping your foot ventilated and fresh!
- Teva Men’s Hurricane XLT: This lightweight leather sandal is one of the best around. Its polyester lining helps keep your feet cool and comfortable all day long, while the EVA foam footbed cushions your stride. Plus, the outsole has superior traction and grip, whatever terrain you choose.
- Sanuk Men’s Vagabond Sandal: This sandal sports a modern look, with a flexible build that contours nicely to your feet. It features a textile upper and mesh lining with a multi-directional lug pattern on its EVA outsole. Plus, its patented yoga mat footbed is amazingly comfortable!
Best Budget-Friendly Closed Toe Walking Sandals
- Skechers Go Step Lite Casual Women’s Sandal: With its lightweight cushioning and construction, paired with its focused midsole design, this Skechers option provides great comfort. The hook-and-loop closure strap also allows an adjustable fit.
- Adidas Duramo 8 Men’s: These walking sandals offer breathable performance with its synthetic upper and 3-stripe design. Plus, its compression molded EVA midsole ensures a comfortable stride. It’s perfect for both active and leisurely pursuits alike!
- Crocs Swiftwater Leather Women’s: This walking sandal offers a great choice for those looking for affordability without compromising on features. The hook-and-loop straps offer a secure fit while the midsole foam ensures enhanced cushioning. The molded Croslite™ foam which Crocs is known for provides better grip too!
The Pros and Cons of Wearing a Closed Toe Walking Sandal
Pros:
- Provides toe protection from sharp rocks and debris.
- Comfortable cushioning and arch support.
- Suitable for everyday use and activities.
Cons:
- Can be hotter than open toe sandals.
- Takes longer to dry out due to the closed toe feature.
How to Care for your Closed Toe Walking Sandal
Closed toe walking sandals require more care due to the material they are made from. Since they are designed to be worn in any weather, they also require thorough cleaning after each use. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your sandals:
- Clean off dirt or debris right after each use with a soft brush or towel to avoid carrying it into your home.
- Regularly apply foot protector spray or waterproofing to help material retain structure.
- Soak in cold water with mild soap once a month.
- Allow to naturally air dry instead of using a blow dryer.
- Store in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight to avoid cracking.
