7 Best Water Hiking Sandals in 2023

Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
7 Best Water Hiking Sandals in 2023
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There are times when taking a plunge is far more rewarding than skipping the drench on our daily hikes. In such cases, you are far better off sporting a pair of water hiking sandals.

Having tested 40+ of these incredible water-ready hikers, we are proud to share with you our top picks. We have submerged and flooded these sandals to water to truly know how water-safe they really are. So, whether you need a well-rounded sandal or a barefoot kick to make your day around streams, you are in the right place.

Best overall
Teva Hurricane XLT2 Teva Hurricane XLT2
$75 $37 From REI
Best protection
KEEN Newport H2 KEEN Newport H2
$110 $66 From Amazon
Best lightweight
Teva Original Universal Teva Original Universal
$50 $36 From ASOS
Best cushioning
Hoka Hopara Hoka Hopara
$135 From Zappos
Best comfort
Chaco Z/Cloud Chaco Z/Cloud
$110 $34 From Amazon
Best floatable
Teva Hurricane Drift Teva Hurricane Drift
$40 $29 From Amazon
Best style
KEEN Uneek KEEN Uneek
$110 $87 From Amazon
See all 42 water hiking sandals

    Best water hiking sandals overall

    Teva Hurricane XLT2
    Teva Hurricane XLT2
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 review
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 lab test
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 cut in half
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Heel stack
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 heel to toe
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Forefoot stack
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Drop
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 cushioning
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Midsole softness
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Weight
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Outsole hardness
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 outsole durability test
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Outsole durability
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Outsole thickness
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Torsional rigidity
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Midsole width in the forefoot
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Midsole width in the heel
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 arch support
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 hiking
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Stiffness
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Lug depth
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 outsole
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 strap
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 straps
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Toebox width at the widest part
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Tongue padding
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 heel cushioning
    Teva Hurricane XLT2 Reflective elements
    Teva Hurricane XLT2
    89
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is an exceptional hiking sandal at a bargain price. With its superb arch support, nicely tractioned outsole, and customizable fit, this sandal gives excellent value for money. Because of its versatility, we even dare say that this sandal can replace three other types of shoes for your summer adventures.

    Pros

    • Highly versatile
    • Well-cushioned
    • Supportive footbed
    • Durable for the price
    • Grippy outsole
    • Customizable fit
    • Lightweight
    • Quick-drying
    • Affordable

    Cons

    • No toe protection
    • Runs a little large
    Full review of Teva Hurricane XLT2

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Diamond Sea Mist (1019234DSMS)
    Sesame (1019235SSME)
    Desert Multi (1019234DTMLT)
    Mirage Multi (1019235MGMT)
    Black (1019235BLK)
    Chara Orion Blue (1019234450)
    Chara Black/Grey (1019234CBGRY)
    Green Chara Dark Olive Cd Ol (1019234303)
    More colors
    $37
    See deal  
    $47
    See deal  
    $53
    See deal  
    $57
    See deal  
    $75
    See deal  
    $75
    See deal  

    Water hiking sandals with the best protection

    KEEN Newport H2
    KEEN Newport H2
    keen-newport-h2-review.JPG
    Keen Newport H2 Cut In Half
    keen-newport-h2-lab-test.JPG
    Keen Newport H2 Heel To Toe
    keen-newport-h2-heelstack.JPG
    keen-newport-h2-cushioning-softness-durometer-inner-layer.JPG
    Keen Newport H2 Cushioning
    keen-newport-h2-cushioning-softness-durometer.JPG
    Keen Newport H2 Breathability Smoke
    keen-newport-h2-outsole.JPG
    keen-newport-h2-lug-depth.JPG
    Keen Newport H2 Stability
    keen-newport-h2-forefoot-width.JPG
    keen-newport-h2-heel-width.JPG
    Keen Newport H2 Flexibility
    Keen Newport H2 Flexibility Measurement
    keen-newport-h2-weight.JPG
    keen-newport-h2-lacing.JPG
    keen-newport-h2-inside.JPG
    KEEN Newport H2
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    With excessive amounts of comfort, support, and stability, the Newport H2 can be considered among KEEN's must-buys. This lightweight footgear also provides exceptional traction and requires virtually zero break-in time. It comes with a few misfires, yes, but based on performance alone, the Newport H2 is hard not to love.

    Pros

    • Versatile for various hikes
    • Exceptionally plush
    • Incredible grip level
    • Stable and supportive
    • Day-one comfort
    • Easy and fast to lace up
    • Quick-drying
    • Stink-proof

    Cons

    • Heavier than average
    • Traps debris
    Full review of KEEN Newport H2

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Smokey Bear/Military Olive (1027452)
    Smokey Bear/Smores (1027453)
    Black (1001907)
    banyan tree (1024318)
    Groovy Orange Navy (1026348)
    Brown (1001931)
    Brown (1022250)
    Blue (1001938)
    More colors
    $66
    See deal  
    $89
    See deal  
    $125
    See deal  
    $125
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  

    Best lightweight water hiking sandals

    Teva Original Universal lab test and review
    Teva Original Universal lab test and review
    Teva Original Universal review
    Teva Original Universal lab test
    Teva Original Universal cut in half
    Teva Original Universal Heel stack
    Teva Original Universal heel to toe
    Teva Original Universal Forefoot stack
    Teva Original Universal Drop
    Teva Original Universal Midsole softness
    Teva Original Universal cushioning
    Teva Original Universal Secondary foam softness
    Teva Original Universal strap
    Teva Original Universal Outsole hardness
    Teva Original Universal Outsole thickness
    Teva Original Universal Lateral stability test
    Teva Original Universal Torsional rigidity
    Teva Original Universal Midsole width in the forefoot
    Teva Original Universal Midsole width in the heel
    Teva Original Universal Stiffness
    Teva Original Universal Lug depth
    Teva Original Universal Toebox width at the widest part
    Teva Original Universal top view
    Teva Original Universal Tongue padding
    Teva Original Universal straps
    Teva Original Universal style
    Teva Original Universal
    86
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    For $50, we cannot think of a better summer option than the Teva Original Universal! This no-frills sandal delivers all-day comfort while feeling non-existent on the foot. With its stylish and versatile appeal, you can wear this sandal from the trail to the beach or from a paddleboard to a coffee shop without worrying about fitting in.

    Pros

    • Featherweight
    • Versatile in use
    • Comfortable strap system
    • Affordable
    • Cushioned for short hikes
    • Durable
    • Over 20 colorways and designs

    Cons

    • Lacks traction
    • Texture is felt underfoot
    • Back strap is not adjustable
    Full review of Teva Original Universal

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Green (1004006DOL)
    Black (1004010BLK)
    Multi (1003987SMU)
    BLACK GREY (1004006LSBG)
    Layered Rock Black Dark Olive (1004006LRBDO)
    Macaroon Multi (1004006MRML)
    Ravine Total Eclipse (1004006RTEC)
    $36
    See deal  
    No stock  
    No stock  
    No stock  

    Water hiking sandals with the best cushioning

    Green
    Hoka Hopara
    79
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    This piece is remarkable with its excellence in footing security and lavish provision of comfort. While pricier than most hiking sandals, the Hopara from Hoka can make your hikes quite inspiring (or way less of a slog)!

    Pros

    • Incredible cushioning
    • High level of comfort
    • Excellent wet-surface traction
    • Rock-solid build
    • Accommodating fit
    • Supportive for a neutral shoe
    • Worth the price

    Cons

    • A bit heavy
    • Gives blisters
    • Not for narrow feet
    Full review of Hoka Hopara

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black (BBLC)
    Black (BDSD)
    Green (AOTN)
    Blue (BSNBL)
    Blue Coral/Blue Graphite (BCBGR)
    Castlerock/Thyme (CTHY)
    $135
    See deal  
    $135
    See deal  
    $135
    See deal  
    $135
    See deal  
    $135
    See deal  
    $135
    See deal  

    Water hiking sandals with the best comfort

    Solid Black
    Chaco Z/Cloud
    89
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The excellent craftsmanship of the Z/Cloud is quite evident in the many things it has on offer. From its mesmerizing fit and spectacular level of comfort to its stellar looks and lasting durability, this piece from Chaco is, to say the least, a real standout.

    Pros

    • Amazing fit
    • Fantastic comfort level
    • Superbly hip design
    • Brilliant surface traction
    • Super-tough build quality
    • Remarkable versatility
    • Keep stink at bay
    • Lightweight

    Cons

    • Short ankle strap
    • Too wide
    • Lack of stability
    Full review of Chaco Z/Cloud

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Solid Black (J105593)
    Serpent Navy (JCH107903)
    Weave Black (JCH107901)
    Verdant green (JCH108675)
    Ending Navy (JCH107257)
    Scoop Dusk (JCH108677)
    Blue (J105969)
    Gush Rust (JCH108379)
    $34
    See deal  
    $74
    See deal  
    $75
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  

    Best floatable water hiking sandals

    Black
    Teva Hurricane Drift
    83
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    For outings that involve the inevitable drench, make a difference in the Teva Hurricane Drift. A performer across shallow waters, this sustainable sandal transforms your hikes into unhindered (a.k.a. boosted) adventures. Yes, mastering the wetlands in this piece of gear is not a problem, especially if you have stout feet.

    Pros

    • Immensely pampering
    • Sticky
    • Featherweight
    • Stable
    • Quick-drying
    • Stylish

    Cons

    • Too roomy (women’s version)
    • Adjustability issues
    Full review of Teva Hurricane Drift

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Orange (1100ORAN)
    Plaza Taupe (1124PLTP)
    Black (1100BLK)
    Navy (1124NAVY)
    Dark Grey (1124DGRY)
    Brown (1100301)
    Fiery Red (1102621)
    Bright White (1100WHT)
    $29
    See deal  
    $30
    See deal  
    $34
    See deal  
    $45
    See deal  

    Water hiking sandals with the best style

    keen-uneek.jpg
    keen-uneek.jpg
    Keen Uneek Intro New
    keen-uneek-outsole.jpg
    keen-uneek-upper.jpg
    keen-uneek-onfeet.jpg
    KEEN Uneek
    91
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    Its comfortable feel, versatility, and breathability were just some of the features that made the KEEN Uneek a likable sandal. A general-purpose hiking sandal, the Uneek works incredibly for short hikes, daily wear, and water sports. Not meant for technical terrain, the KEEN Uneek is still worth checking out as it seems able to tick all the basics, performance-wise.

    Pros

    • Breathable
    • Excellent grip
    • Very supportive
    • Durable
    • Comfortable fit

    Cons

    • Needs break-in
    • Not for long hikes or technical terrain
    Full review of KEEN Uneek

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Timberwolf Plaza Taupe (1025169)
    new york at night (1024310)
    Black (1027436)
    banyan tree (1024309)
    Original Tie Dye Birch (1025633)
    Grey (1027434)
    Black Plaza Taupe (1027437)
    magnet/black (1026335)
    More colors
    $87
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $104
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Comparison of the 7 best water hiking sandals

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    Best
    CoreScore
    Users rating
    Experts
    Best price
    Ranking
    Popularity
    # of colorways

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    How we test hiking sandals

    Unbiased reviews are getting harder and harder to come by these days. This is not the case for us here at RunRepeat, where our reviews are objective and professionally written. Here is our approach to reviews:

    • We buy water hiking sandals using our own money. This is our number one requirement to help us intercept any kind of unfairness when it comes to critiquing footwear.
    • We test every pair for days, paying close attention to each sandal’s performance in and around water, as well as on regular trails.
    • We get down to real business inside our lab. We get pieces of evidence for the things we encounter in the actual wearing of the shoes by bringing out our weapons (aka tools and equipment)! We measure the different parameters of the shoes. One of which is the weight of the shoes which we obtain using our digital weighing scale. That is not all! We also bust the shoes open and check all that we can examine.
    Author
    Paul Ronto
    Paul Ronto

    Over the past 20 years, Paul has climbed, hiked, and run all over the world. He has summited peaks throughout the Americas, trekked through Africa, and tested his endurance in 24-hour trail races as well as 6 marathons. On average, he runs 30-50 miles a week in the foothills of Northern Colorado. His research is regularly cited in The New York Times, Washington Post, National Geographic, etc. On top of this, Paul is leading the running shoe lab where he cuts shoes apart and analyzes every detail of the shoes that you might buy.

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