Credit: Fitflop and Teva
Strong Women
11 of the best walking sandals for summer hikes, city breaks and festival fun
By Alice Porter
10 months ago
All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article
4 min read
Planning a summer full of hikes and outdoor adventures? Invest in a decent pair of walking sandals that’ll protect your joints and prevent pesky blisters.
When the sun is shining, there’s nothing quite like a good hike to leave you feeling on top of the world. But whether you’re exploring the countryside, clambering along the coast or pounding the city streets, the key to an enjoyable walk is having the proper kit.
We can all agree that nothing ruins a relaxing walk like sore ankles or a huge blister on your toe. And while you might not want to wear walking boots when it’s scorching outside, you still need to have supportive footwear if you want to clock up the miles.
That’s where walking sandals come in. Not only do they keep your feet cool on hot days (which is key to avoiding blisters) but they’re often waterproof, which means you can get involved with nature in all its forms without having to worry about stepping into soggy fabric the next day.
Walking sandals are also great for festivals, especially if you’re camping and plan on walking (and dancing) all day and night. Going for comfort doesn’t mean having to sacrifice style either; ergonomic sandals are one of the most unexpected fashion trends of recent years.
You can wear yours to brunch, the Strong Women Trek or that off-grid weekend trip to the Lakes. Here are 12 of our absolute favourites to shop now.
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Sandals
As stylish as they are supportive, these arch-fit sandals from Skechers are designed to keep your feet stable and secure as you move. The Goga Mat footbed is both breathable and bouncy, providing a lightweight sensation that’ll help you keep you going for miles.
Shop Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Sandals at SportsShoes.com, £54.39
Teva Hurricane XLT2
Tevas have become known as a fashion shoe in recent years, but they’re one of the most practical and affordable walking sandals out there. The Hurricane XLT2s are designed for day hikes across different terrains, with quick-dry fabrics, good grip and extra support for uneven surfaces.
Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Hiker 2 Strap Sandal
Another good all-rounder, the Columbia Trailstorm Hiker shoe is made from suede and leather, ensuring comfort and stability on long days of walking. They’re suitable for both wet and dry conditions and are available in three different colours.
Shop Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Hiker 2 Strap Sandal at La Redoute, £65
Crocs All-Terrain Sandal
If you’re not too scarred by early 2000s memories of bright pink glittery Crocs, then these walking sandals are a great, affordable option for summer adventures. Fitted with an adjustable strap, you can wear them as slip-ons or put them into ‘sports mode’. Take them to every festival this summer.
Ecco Offroad Women's Nubuck Hiking Sandal
These are about as close to dad sandals as you’re going to get, and if you’re an experienced hiker looking for a comfy, long-lasting pair of shoes, they’re certainly worth the investment. With three adjustable straps, they’ll fit perfectly whether you’re going barefoot or want to pair them with socks for top dad-dressing points.
Rieker Women's Sandals Hook & Loop
Rieker sandals are designed with anti-stress and anti-shock technology. When you walk long distances, your feet naturally expand – and these have been designed to allow for that expansion.
Birkenstock Kalahari Women
Birkenstock is best known for its Arizona sandal, but if you’re serious about walking and supporting your feet, opt for the Kalahari style. It’s a functional sandal with an anatomically shaped footbed – the next best thing to walking barefoot.
Teva Original Universal Sandals
If you’re more of a walk-the-long-way-to-the-pub kind of hiker than someone who spends their weekends climbing mountains, the Teva Universal sandals are a practical, stylish walking sandal, with loads of different colour options.
Fitflop NEO-D-HYKER Water-Resistant Adjustable Walking Sandals
If colour is your thing, these Fitflop sandals are both bright and functional. Made for trail and cross-country walking, the multi-adjustable straps allow you to tailor the fit to ensure your feet are supported all day long.
Shop NEO-D-HYKER Water-Resistant Adjustable Walking Sandals at Fitflop, £90
HOKA Hopara
Hoka has become one of the most well-loved brands for runners and if you’re already a devotee of the brand, its Hopara style is probably about to become your shoe of the summer.
A sandal-shoe hybrid, they feature cut-outs for drainage, so they’re suitable for everything – from puddles to waterfalls.
Columbia Women's Via Sandal Desert Nights Sandal
Columbia’s Via sandal is more suited to high step-count city breaks than mountain climbing, but you’ll be glad to have chosen a pair of shoes that are as supportive and comfortable as these ones when you realise you’ve taken your fifth wrong turn of the day.
Need to wear in your sandals? Bring your friends and join us for a scenic half-marathon hike at the Strong Women Trek in Surrey Hills on Saturday 20 July. It’s the perfect way to tick off a mini-milestone in 2024 while enjoying a day of walking, fresh air and fun. Book your place here.
Images: courtesy of brands
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