6 Best Water Hiking Sandals, 60+ Shoes Tested in 2023
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 50+ of these incredible water-ready hikers, we are proud to share with you our top picks. So, whether you need a well-rounded sandal or a barefoot kick to make your day around streams, you are in the right place.
Table of contents How we test hiking sandalsBest overallBest closed toeBest TevaBest lightweightBest value sandalMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test hiking sandals
Unbiased reviews are getting harder and harder to come by these days. This is not the case on RunRepeat, where reviews are objective and professionally written. Here is our approach to reviews:
- We buy water hiking sandals using our own money.
- We test every pair for days, paying close attention to each sandal’s performance in and around water, as well as on regular trails.
- Our honest reviews reflect opinions from hundreds of experts and regular trail-goers alike.
With all that factored in, we give every reviewed sandal a CoreScore. This proprietary scoring system plays a significant part in determining the best water hiking sandals in a handful of categories.
Best water hiking sandals overall
CoreScore
- Top 28% in hiking sandals
- Top 30% in closed toe hiking sandals
Pros
- Plush right from the get-go
- Great traction on wet surfaces
- Incredibly supportive
- Offers forefoot protection
- Built to last
- Glove-like fit
Cons
- Touter-than-usual construction
- Bulky heel
Verdict
If you have been desperately searching for a sandal that puts brawn and femininity in one badass package, then the Astoria West must be for you. Dubbed by KEEN as among their town-to-trail greats, this enduring beauty will keep going as you brave the outdoors. It is not the sexiest hybrid out there, but its combination of toughness and spunkiness is enough to reel you in.
Best closed toe water hiking sandals
KEEN Uneek
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$54
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$85
Backcountry
Free shipping
$100
Outland USA
Free shipping
$100
CoreScore
- Top 2% in hiking sandals
- Top 5% in KEEN hiking sandals
- Top 4% most popular hiking sandals
Pros
- Breathable
- Excellent grip
- Very supportive
- Durable
- Comfortable fit
Cons
- Needs break-in
- Not for long hikes or technical terrain
Verdict
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.
Best Teva water hiking sandals
Teva Mid Universal
Amazon
$19
Outland USA
$47
ASOS
Free shipping & returns
$50
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$60
CoreScore
Pros
- For all-day wear
- Superb comfort
- Like walking on clouds
- Great for both wet and dry weather
- Durable
- Awesome lockdown
- Amazing color choices
- People buy multiple pairs
- Easy to pair with casual outfits
Cons
- Straps are too harsh on the skin
- Might squish the pinky toe
Verdict
If towering over the trail (both literally and figuratively) is what you are after in hiking sandals, the Mid Universal has to be on your radar. Its rather imposing stature is rarely seen in its kind, but that heightened platform you can use to your advantage where additional protection underfoot pays extra. If you are a Teva fan and someone who has slender heels, this offering will have you doing wonders, whether on or off the trail.
Best lightweight water hiking sandals
KEEN Drift Creek H2
Amazon
Free shipping
$66
Backcountry
Free shipping
$66
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Free shipping
$90
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$110
CoreScore
Pros
- Immeasurable comfort
- Off-the-charts grip
- Thrives in and around water
- 10/10 lightness
- Great for kayaking
- Long-lasting
- Excellent toe protection
- Attractive
Cons
- Underwhelming springiness underfoot
- Lackluster arch support
- Narrow heel and toe box
- A tongue that bunches
Verdict
The Drift Creek H2 from KEEN appears to be the sandal that takes two steps forward and one back. Case in point: its generosity in the areas that matter (i.e., comfort, traction, and durability) is somewhat held back by fit issues and a sole that could be better in certain ways. Nevertheless, there's still a lot to like in this hiker, especially where water is involved.
Best value sandal
Teva Hurricane Drift
Amazon
Free shipping
$30
Outland USA
$34
Run United
Free shipping
$40
Backcountry
$45
CoreScore
- Top 7% most popular hiking sandals
Pros
- Immensely pampering
- Sticky
- Featherweight
- Stable
- Quick-drying
- Stylish
Cons
- Too roomy (women’s version)
- Adjustability issues
Verdict
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.
Most popular water hiking sandals
Hoka Hopara
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$135
Hoka
Free shipping & returns
$135
Backcountry
Free shipping
$135
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$135
CoreScore
- Top 6% most popular hiking sandals
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
Verdict
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)!
