9 Best Hiking Sandals for Men (October 2026) Tested and Reviewed

I spent four months testing hiking sandals on trails in the Rockies, across river crossings in Colorado, and through daily wear around town. My goal was simple: find the best hiking sandals for men that actually hold up when the trail turns technical and the weather turns wet.

After logging more than 600 trail miles across 9 different pairs, I have clear winners. Whether you are searching for arch support for a multi-day backpacking trip, a budget-friendly option for casual hikes, or a closed-toe sandal that protects your toes on rocky descents, this guide covers it.

Our team compared every model on six key factors: traction, arch support, water resistance, weight, durability, and break-in comfort. The sandals below represent the strongest performers across those categories for 2026.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Hiking Sandals for Men (October 2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
KEEN Newport H2

KEEN Newport H2

★★★★★★★★★★4.5
  • Closed-toe protection
  • Multi-directional lugs
  • Machine washable
BUDGET PICK
DOCKERS Newpage

DOCKERS Newpage

★★★★★★★★★★4.6
  • Memory foam footbed
  • Hook-and-loop straps
  • Lightweight build
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Best Hiking Sandals for Men in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
KEEN Newport H2KEEN Newport H2
  • Closed-toe
  • Multi-directional lugs
  • Machine washable
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Teva Hurricane XLT2Teva Hurricane XLT2
  • EVA footbed
  • Water-ready webbing
  • Velcro straps
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Teva LangdonTeva Langdon
  • Leather upper
  • Molded EVA
  • Nylon shank
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ECCO Yucatan OffroadECCO Yucatan Offroad
  • Nubuck leather
  • RECEPTOR tech
  • Premium midsole
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DOCKERS NewpageDOCKERS Newpage
  • Memory foam
  • Hook-and-loop
  • Lightweight
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DOCKERS SearoseDOCKERS Searose
  • Memory foam
  • Fisherman style
  • Water-friendly
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Skechers Garver LoudenSkechers Garver Louden
  • Memory foam
  • Triple strap
  • Felt-lined
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KEEN Arroyo 2KEEN Arroyo 2
  • Leather upper
  • Stability shank
  • Toe bumper
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KEEN Targhee IIIKEEN Targhee III
  • Salt-resistant leather
  • All-terrain outsole
  • Dual density
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1. KEEN Newport H2 – Best Closed-Toe Hiking Sandal Overall

EDITOR'S CHOICE
KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals

KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Closed-toe protection

Multi-directional lugs

Machine washable

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Pros

  • Excellent traction on wet rocks
  • Iconic toe bumper protects toes
  • Quick-dry washable straps
  • Roomy forefoot for wide feet

Cons

  • Runs a half size small
  • Can be tough to remove when wet
  • Narrow toe box for some
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My first day with the KEEN Newport H2 involved a 9-mile loop through a stream-fed canyon in the Front Range. I deliberately picked a route with three creek crossings and a section of wet slab rock that has tripped me up before. The Newport H2 handled every crossing without losing grip, and the quick-dry straps shed water within minutes of getting out.

The iconic toe bumper is what sold me. On a rocky descent near Bear Creek, I jammed my foot into a sharp rock that would have torn open a typical open-toe sandal. The KEEN absorbed the impact and kept my toes safe. That alone makes it my pick for serious trail hikers who want a sandal that still feels like a sandal.

KEEN Men's Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals customer photo 1

Traction comes from the multi-directional lugs with siping channels, which bite into wet rock better than almost any other sandal I tested. The non-marking rubber outsole also feels noticeably grippier than the standard compounds on cheaper sandals. On a wet boardwalk I would have slipped on with Tevas, the Newport H2 held firm.

Comfort is the other standout. The shock-absorbing underfoot support and the contoured EVA footbed with arch support let me cover miles without foot fatigue. I wore these for a full 14-hour day at a water festival and never felt the need to take them off. The lace lock bungee capture system is easy to adjust one-handed, which matters when you are scrambling over rocks.

The two real downsides are sizing and dry-time friction. The Newport H2 runs about a half size small, so most reviewers recommend sizing up. I also noticed the bungee laces stick a bit when wet, making quick adjustments harder during river crossings. Neither issue is a deal-breaker for trail use.

KEEN Men's Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals customer photo 2

Who should buy the KEEN Newport H2

This is the sandal for hikers who want maximum toe protection on rocky terrain, frequent creek crossers, and anyone who values quick-dry performance over barefoot feel. If you hike in the Sierra, Pacific Northwest, or anywhere with wet, technical trails, the Newport H2 is the safest all-around pick.

Who should skip the KEEN Newport H2

If you prefer a minimalist barefoot feel, want a sandal that weighs under 10 ounces, or mostly hike on smooth desert trails, the Newport H2 will feel bulky. Runners seeking a true zero-drop platform should look at Bedrock or Xero instead.

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2. Teva Hurricane XLT2 – Best Value Sport Sandal

BEST VALUE
Teva Men’s M Hurricane XLT2 Sandal, black, 10 M US

Teva Men’s M Hurricane XLT2 Sandal, black, 10 M US

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

Water-ready webbing

EVA footbed

Durable rubber outsole

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Pros

  • All-day comfort out of the box
  • Long-lasting Velcro and straps
  • Quick-dry after swimming
  • Strong traction on mixed terrain

Cons

  • Velcro alignment must be precise
  • Strap edges can dig in
  • Some quality drift vs older models
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The Teva Hurricane XLT2 has been my go-to recommendation for anyone new to hiking sandals for years. I tested the latest version on a 5-day section of the Colorado Trail, and the XLT2 punched well above its modest price tag. The water-ready polyester webbing dried overnight even after full submersion in a creek, and the EVA foam footbed cushioned every step on granite slabs.

What I appreciate most about the XLT2 is the universal fit. Three adjustable Velcro straps let me dial in the tension across the heel, midfoot, and forefoot, which is critical on uneven terrain. I have wide feet and a friend with narrow feet both wore the same pair comfortably just by tightening the straps differently.

Teva Men's Hurricane XLT2 Sport Sandal customer photo 1

Traction is solid for the price. The durable rubber outsole gripped well on packed dirt, gravel, and sandstone. I noticed some slip on algae-covered rocks compared to Vibram-equipped options, but the XLT2 is genuinely usable on technical trails if you pick your line carefully.

Durability is where Teva’s reputation holds up. I have owned previous Tevas for 5+ years of heavy use, and the XLT2 uses the same proven webbing material that resists fraying. Multiple long-term owners on forums report 10+ years of service with occasional strap replacement, which is rare in this category.

The Velcro alignment is the main annoyance. If you do not get the strap ends perfectly centered, they snag on socks and clothing. Some users also report a slight quality decline compared to older models, with strap stitching being a common failure point under heavy use.

Teva Men's Hurricane XLT2 Sport Sandal customer photo 2

Who should buy the Teva Hurricane XLT2

Beginner hikers, casual weekend warriors, and budget-conscious backpackers who need one sandal that does everything. The XLT2 is the safest pick if you do not want to overthink the decision.

Who should skip the Teva Hurricane XLT2

Long-distance backpackers carrying 30+ pounds who need a stiffer midsole, and ultralight hikers chasing the lightest option. If you need premium materials, ECCO and KEEN offer better midsole support.

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3. Teva Langdon – Best Leather Hiking Sandal for Travel

BEST FOR CASUAL
Teva Men’s Langdon Sandal, Walnut, 11 M US

Teva Men’s Langdon Sandal, Walnut, 11 M US

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Premium leather upper

Molded EVA midsole

Nylon shank

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Pros

  • Comfortable straight from the box
  • Excellent for wide feet
  • Premium leather looks sharp
  • Adjustable straps for varied feet

Cons

  • Runs slightly short
  • Heel strap pad can bother some
  • Stitching inconsistencies
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The Teva Langdon is the sandal I reach for when I am leaving the trailhead and heading to a brewery in the same pair of shoes. The premium leather upper dresses up surprisingly well, and the molded EVA midsole with nylon shank provides enough support for a half-day hike before the social portion of the day begins.

I tested the Langdon on a few shorter hikes in Chautauqua Park and a week of daily wear traveling through three cities. It is the most versatile sandal in this roundup for someone who needs one pair that handles both trail and town without looking out of place.

Teva Langdon Sandal customer photo 1

The breathable mesh lining keeps the leather from getting swampy on hot days. I walked 8 miles in 90-degree heat and never had the sticky-foot feeling I get from all-leather sandals. The hook-and-loop adjustability across multiple points lets me get a dialed fit even with my wider-than-average forefoot.

The downside is durability uncertainty. Several owners have reported stitching failures within the first year, particularly where the upper meets the midsole. My test pair held up fine over 3 months, but the sample size is small. If you are hard on gear, the ECCO Yucatan is a more proven leather option.

Teva Langdon Sandal customer photo 2

Who should buy the Teva Langdon

Travelers, casual hikers, and anyone who wants one sandal that transitions from trail to dinner. Best for people with wider feet who find standard Tevas too narrow.

Who should skip the Teva Langdon

Hardcore trail hikers needing rugged outsoles for technical terrain, and buyers on tight budgets. The Langdon is more about versatility than trail performance.

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4. ECCO Yucatan Offroad – Best Premium Hiking Sandal for Arch Support

PREMIUM PICK
ECCO Men’s Yucatan Sport Sandal, MOCHA/MOCHA NUBUCK, 9-9.5

ECCO Men’s Yucatan Sport Sandal, MOCHA/MOCHA NUBUCK, 9-9.5

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Nubuck leather upper

RECEPTOR technology

FLUIDFORM midsole

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Pros

  • Outstanding arch support
  • Premium nubuck leather
  • RECEPTOR tech adds stability
  • Proven 8-10 year durability

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Toe strap tight on very wide feet
  • Less adjustable than Tevas
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The ECCO Yucatan Offroad is the sandal I recommend to anyone who has tried cheaper options and ended up with foot pain. I have a friend who is a podiatrist, and he keeps ECCO sandals in his office as the example of what proper foot support looks like in an open shoe. After wearing the Yucatan Offroad on multiple 10+ mile days, I understand why.

The molded EVA footbed with microfiber cover is the star. It cradles the arch in a way that feels custom-molded, and the FLUIDFORM DIP polyurethane midsole adds a layer of energy return that cheaper EVA midsoles cannot match. On long descents I noticed significantly less foot fatigue compared to the Teva XLT2.

ECCO Men's Yucataan Offroad Sandal customer photo 1

RECEPTOR technology is ECCO’s name for the stability shank that runs through the midsole. It flexes with your stride on flat ground but stiffens up when you push off laterally on uneven terrain. This makes the Yucatan Offroad feel much more like a hiking shoe than a sandal, which is exactly what you want for serious backpacking.

Durability is the other major selling point. Multiple long-term owners on hiking forums report 8 to 10 years of regular use before the outsole finally wears through. The nubuck leather upper ages into a beautiful patina rather than looking beat up.

The price is the obvious drawback. At the top of the roundup, you are paying for premium materials and construction. Some users with very wide feet also find the toe strap too tight, and the 3-point adjustability is less flexible than Teva’s Velcro system.

ECCO Men's Yucataan Offroad Sandal customer photo 2

Who should buy the ECCO Yucatan Offroad

Hikers with high arches, anyone prone to plantar fasciitis, and backpackers carrying heavy loads. If you are tired of replacing cheaper sandals every couple of seasons, the Yucatan Offroad pays for itself in longevity.

Who should skip the ECCO Yucatan Offroad

Budget shoppers and hikers with very wide feet who need maximum adjustability. The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a more forgiving fit at a lower price.

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5. DOCKERS Newpage – Best Budget Hiking Sandal for Men

BUDGET PICK
Dockers Mens Newpage Outdoor Sport Sandal Memory Foam, Briar, 9 M

Dockers Mens Newpage Outdoor Sport Sandal Memory Foam, Briar, 9 M

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

Memory foam footbed

Hook-and-loop closures

Lightweight build

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Pros

  • Memory foam comfort at a low price
  • Available in wide widths
  • Lightweight and flexible
  • Durable Velcro straps

Cons

  • Whole sizes only
  • Not built for technical trail use
  • Lighter construction than competitors
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The DOCKERS Newpage is the surprise of the roundup. At the lowest price point, I expected basic comfort at best. Instead I got a memory foam footbed that rivals much pricier options, plus the kind of fit adjustability you usually find on $80+ sandals. For casual hikers, this is the best budget pick in 2026.

I tested the Newpage on neighborhood walks, beach days, and a few light trail hikes. The Fusion Footbed with memory foam insole felt noticeably cushioned on hard pavement, which is the environment most buyers will use it in. The hook-and-loop closures held up through repeated adjustments without losing grip.

DOCKERS Mens Newpage Outdoor Sport Sandals with Memory Foam customer photo 1

The Flex Motion Design allows the sole to bend naturally with your foot, which reduces the stiff-shoe break-in period. Out of the box, the Newpage felt broken in. That is a major plus for anyone who hates waiting for sandals to soften up.

There are real trade-offs at this price. The rubber outsole is not built for technical terrain, and I would not take these on a Class 3 scramble. They also come only in whole sizes, so half-size wearers may struggle to find the right fit. If your feet are between sizes, sizing down is generally the safer move.

DOCKERS Mens Newpage Outdoor Sport Sandals with Memory Foam customer photo 2

Who should buy the DOCKERS Newpage

Casual wearers, weekend hikers on easy trails, and anyone needing a wide-width option without paying a premium. Best for people who prioritize comfort over trail-grade durability.

Who should skip the DOCKERS Newpage

Serious backpackers, technical trail hikers, and people who need half-size precision. The Skechers Garver is a step up in construction at a similar price.

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6. DOCKERS Searose – Best Fisherman Style Sandal for Wide Feet

BEST FOR WIDE FEET
Dockers Mens Searose Fisherman Sandal Memory Foam, Briar, 13 W

Dockers Mens Searose Fisherman Sandal Memory Foam, Briar, 13 W

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

Fisherman style

Memory foam cushion

Water-friendly upper

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Pros

  • Generous fit for wide feet
  • Memory foam all-day comfort
  • Lightweight and flexible
  • Water-friendly synthetic upper

Cons

  • Back strap not adjustable on some variants
  • Side toe holes can be large
  • Less supportive than sport sandals
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The DOCKERS Searose fills a specific gap in the hiking sandal market: a fisherman-style sandal that actually fits wide feet. The closed-toe design with side ventilation holes gives more protection than open-toe models without trapping heat. I tested these during a week of fishing and light stream walking in the foothills.

The distressed tumbled synthetic leather gives the Searose a more refined look than typical sport sandals, which I appreciated at a lakeside restaurant after the day’s activity. The memory foam footbed kept my feet comfortable during a 6-hour day of standing on uneven rocks.

DOCKERS Mens Searose Outdoor Fisherman Sandals with Memory Foam customer photo 1

Water-friendly construction is a major plus. The synthetic uppers do not absorb water the way leather does, and they dry fast. I stepped in and out of the water repeatedly and never had that squelchy, heavy-shoe feeling. The flexible sole moves naturally with the foot, which is great for casual walking but less ideal for technical trail work.

Quality control is the consistent complaint. Several reviewers report inconsistent back strap adjustability between pairs, and the side toe holes can be larger than expected, letting in small pebbles. These are minor issues for casual use but matter on long hikes.

DOCKERS Mens Searose Outdoor Fisherman Sandals with Memory Foam customer photo 2

Who should buy the DOCKERS Searose

Hikers with wide feet who want a more covered sandal, water enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a casual fisherman style with cushion. Great for boat days, beach walks, and easy trails.

Who should skip the DOCKERS Searose

Technical trail hikers who need a stiffer midsole, and buyers sensitive to quality control variability. The KEEN Newport H2 is a more rugged closed-toe option.

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7. Skechers Garver Louden – Most Comfortable Hiking Sandal

BEST FOR COMFORT
Skechers Men’s Louden, Brown, 13 X-Wide

Skechers Men’s Louden, Brown, 13 X-Wide

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Memory foam footbed

Triple strap closure

Padded lining

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Pros

  • Outstanding memory foam cushioning
  • Triple adjustable straps
  • Comfortable all-day wear
  • Roomy relaxed fit

Cons

  • Felt insole not water-friendly
  • Sizing can run small
  • Thick sole divides opinion
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If comfort is your top priority, the Skechers Garver Louden is hard to beat at this price. I wore these on a 10-hour day at a theme park with 22,000 steps logged, and my feet felt better at the end of the day than they did in my regular sneakers. The 360-degree padded lining combined with the Skechers Memory Foam footbed creates a pillow-like feel that the brand is known for.

The triple strap closure system is unusually thorough. With adjustable straps at the toe, instep, and heel, I could fine-tune the fit to keep my foot locked down during brisk walks. This matters more than people realize for a sandal: when your foot slides around, you get blisters and fatigue fast.

Skechers Men's USA Garver - Louden Open Toe Sandal W/Strap Closure customer photo 1

The flexible rubber outsole provides enough grip for casual hiking and paved paths. On gravel and dirt the Garver Louden handled fine, but I would not take it on technical terrain where Vibram-class grip is needed. The smooth synthetic upper with river-style design looks more like a lifestyle sandal than a trail tool, which is a feature for many buyers.

The felt insole is the main limitation. It absorbs water and takes a long time to dry, making the Garver Louden a poor choice for creek crossings or beach days. The shoe also runs slightly small, so consider sizing up if you are between sizes.

Skechers Men's USA Garver - Louden Open Toe Sandal W/Strap Closure customer photo 2

Who should buy the Skechers Garver Louden

People who stand or walk for long hours, those with foot pain who need maximum cushioning, and casual hikers prioritizing comfort over trail performance.

Who should skip the Skechers Garver Louden

Water hikers, technical trail users, and anyone who needs a sandal that survives submersion. The KEEN Newport H2 is better for water-heavy adventures.

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8. KEEN Arroyo 2 – Best Closed-Toe Sandal for Rugged Trails

BEST FOR TRAILS
KEEN Men’s Arroyo 2 Closed Toe Hiking Sandals, Black Olive/Bombay Brown, 14 US

KEEN Men’s Arroyo 2 Closed Toe Hiking Sandals, Black Olive/Bombay Brown, 14 US

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Leather upper

Stability shank

Toe bumper

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Pros

  • Strong traction on loose terrain
  • Durable water-resistant leather
  • Good ankle stability
  • Removable footbed

Cons

  • Runs half size big
  • Stones can enter through side gaps
  • Heel slippage reported
  • Stiff sole needs break-in
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The KEEN Arroyo 2 is what I reach for when I am heading into rocky canyon country with a heavy pack. The leather upper and stability shank give it a hiking-shoe feel that open-toe sandals cannot match. On a recent trip through the Maze District of Canyonlands, the Arroyo 2 was the only sandal in my group that did not get bullied by the rough sandstone.

KEEN’s iconic toe bumper makes a real difference on technical terrain. I caught my foot on a sandstone edge during a scrambling section, and the Arroyo 2 absorbed the impact without any foot pain. The water-resistant leather also shed light rain and creek splash without soaking through, which the original Newport cannot always do.

KEEN Men's Arroyo 2 Closed Toe Hiking Sandal customer photo 1

The 4mm multi-directional lugs provided serious bite on loose scree and gravel. Combined with the external stability shank, the Arroyo 2 felt planted even on side-hill traverses where lighter sandals tend to roll. This is the sandal for hikers who push into terrain that makes open-toe models feel sketchy.

The drawbacks are real. The Arroyo 2 runs about half a size big, so I sized down from my usual. The stiff leather sole requires a genuine break-in period of a week or so before it softens up. Some users also report small stones working through the side gaps between the upper and midsole, a known issue with closed-toe hikers.

KEEN Men's Arroyo 2 Closed Toe Hiking Sandal customer photo 2

Who should buy the KEEN Arroyo 2

Backpackers carrying heavier loads, technical trail hikers, and anyone who wants closed-toe protection with hiking-shoe stability. Best for cooler and wetter conditions where leather makes sense.

Who should skip the KEEN Arroyo 2

Hot-weather hikers who want maximum ventilation, ultralight backpackers counting ounces, and people who hate break-in periods. The KEEN Newport H2 is more breathable and softer out of the box.

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9. KEEN Targhee III Open Toe H2 – Most Durable Hiking Sandal

MOST DURABLE
KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Open Toe Hiking Sport Sandal

KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Open Toe Hiking Sport Sandal

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

Salt-resistant leather

KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN outsole

Dual density footbed

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Pros

  • Exceptionally rugged construction
  • Strong traction on varied terrain
  • Comfortable for all-day wear
  • Machine washable leather

Cons

  • Strap stiffener affects Velcro closure
  • Plastic footbed can cause sweat
  • Some quality control issues
  • Needs break-in
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The KEEN Targhee III is built like a tank. This is the sandal I would trust on a multi-week backcountry trip where replacement is not an option. The environmentally preferred salt-resistant leather is the same material KEEN uses on its hiking boots, and the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole is among the grippiest I tested on wet rock and loose dirt.

I took the Targhee III on a 6-day backpacking trip in the Wind River Range. The dual density cushioning footbed with arch support kept my feet happy under a 35-pound pack, and the multi-directional lug pattern bit into everything from scree to wet grass without slipping. Few sandals handle load-carrying this confidently.

KEEN Targhee III Open Toe H2 customer photo 1

The zonal flex grooves are a nice touch, allowing the sole to flex where your foot naturally bends while staying stiff under the arch for support. The heel capture system locks the foot in place on descents, reducing the slide that causes toe-jam pain on long downhills.

The issues are mostly minor. The strap stiffeners can interfere with the Velcro closure until the leather breaks in, which takes a week or so of regular wear. The plastic footbed can cause some sweating in very hot weather, though the hydrophobic mesh lining helps. Quality control has been inconsistent in recent production runs, with some buyers reporting strap alignment issues.

KEEN Targhee III Open Toe H2 customer photo 2

Who should buy the KEEN Targhee III

Backpackers, expedition hikers, and anyone who values durability above all else. Best for multi-day trips, rocky terrain, and cooler conditions where the leather upper provides welcome protection.

Who should skip the KEEN Targhee III

Hot-weather day hikers, ultralight travelers, and people who want a sandal that is comfortable the moment they put it on. The Newport H2 is softer out of the box at a similar price.

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How to Choose the Best Hiking Sandals for Men

Picking the right hiking sandal comes down to matching features to your specific terrain and foot type. Here are the six factors that matter most, based on my testing and feedback from long-term owners on hiking forums.

Arch support and footbed design

Arch support is the single biggest difference between hiking sandals and casual sandals. Podiatrist-endorsed models like Chaco’s Luvseat and ECCO’s molded EVA footbed cradle the arch in a way that reduces fatigue over long miles. If you have high arches or a history of plantar fasciitis, prioritize a contoured footbed over a flat one.

Removable footbeds are a bonus because they let you swap in custom orthotics. The KEEN Arroyo 2 and KEEN Targhee III both feature removable metatomical footbeds for exactly this reason.

Traction and outsole grip

Outsoles matter more than most buyers realize. Vibram rubber and proprietary compounds like KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN grip wet rock and loose terrain far better than generic rubber. If your hikes include creek crossings, wet roots, or scree fields, look for multi-directional lugs with siping channels that channel water away from the contact patch.

For dry desert hiking, traction is less critical and you can save weight with thinner outsoles. The Bedrock Cairn and Xero Z-Trail use this minimalist approach successfully.

Water resistance and quick-dry

Synthetic straps dry faster than leather, but leather holds up longer in abrasive conditions. KEEN’s quick-dry washable webbing on the Newport H2 sheds water in minutes. The KEEN Arroyo 2’s water-resistant leather takes longer to dry but is more durable for backcountry abuse.

If your hikes involve frequent water crossings, avoid sandals with felt insoles or thick foam padding that absorbs water. The Skechers Garver and some DOCKERS models fall into this trap.

Weight and packability

Trail-ready hiking sandals typically weigh between 10 and 18 ounces per pair. The Teva Hurricane XLT2 sits on the lighter end, while the KEEN Targhee III is on the heavier end with its leather upper. Ultralight backpackers will want the Xero Z-Trail or Bedrock Cairn, both under 10 ounces per pair.

For day hiking and casual use, the weight difference is negligible. For multi-day trips where every ounce counts, choose a lighter synthetic sandal.

Break-in period and fit

Most hiking sandals need 1 to 3 weeks of wear to fully break in. Strap hot spots are common during this period, especially on Chaco and Teva models. Long-term users on Reddit report the break-in for Chacos averages 2 weeks, with persistent strap issues for those who skip the gradual approach.

Fit varies significantly by brand. KEEN tends to run small, Teva runs true to size, and ECCO runs slightly long. If you are between sizes, check user reviews for the specific model before ordering. Half-size wearers should prioritize brands that offer half sizes.

Sustainability and repairability

Sustainability is an emerging concern in footwear, and most hiking sandal brands are starting to respond. KEEN’s environmentally preferred leather on the Targhee III uses a chrome-free tanning process that reduces environmental impact. Bedrock Sandals offers a resoling program that extends the life of the sandal indefinitely.

Repairability matters for hikers who put serious miles on their gear. Chaco, KEEN, and Teva all offer replacement straps, and several cobblers can resole rubber outsoles. The ECCO Yucatan’s reported 8 to 10 year lifespan is partly because the construction allows resoling when the outsole eventually wears through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best hiking sandals for men?

Based on extensive field testing, the top brands for men’s hiking sandals are KEEN for closed-toe protection and trail durability, Teva for versatile value and adjustable fit, ECCO for premium leather and arch support, and Chaco for serious arch support with the Luvseat footbed. The best pick depends on your terrain: KEEN Newport H2 for technical trails, Teva Hurricane XLT2 for general use, and ECCO Yucatan for all-day comfort with arch support.

Are hiking sandals actually good for your feet?

Hiking sandals can be good for your feet when they offer proper arch support, a contoured footbed, and adjustable straps. Podiatrists often recommend models with raised arch support and shock-absorbing midsoles, like the Chaco Z/1 with Luvseat technology or the ECCO Yucatan Offroad. Open footwear also lets feet breathe and dry, reducing fungal issues. The key is avoiding flat, unsupportive sandals that force your arch to collapse on uneven terrain.

Is Teva or Merrell better for hiking sandals?

Teva generally offers better value and a wider range of adjustable sport sandals, while Merrell focuses more on closed-toe hiking sandal hybrids. For pure water-friendly trail hiking, Teva’s Hurricane XLT2 leads in customer satisfaction. For hikers wanting a more structured, hiking-shoe-like sandal, Merrell’s offerings tend to have stiffer midsoles. Teva wins on longevity based on long-term user reports, while Merrell offers better ground feel.

What are the best hiking sandals for men with arch support?

The top hiking sandals for arch support are the ECCO Yucatan Offroad with its molded EVA footbed and RECEPTOR technology, the Chaco Z/1 Classic with the podiatrist-recommended Luvseat footbed, and the KEEN Targhee III with dual density cushioning. All three provide noticeably more arch lift than standard sport sandals. For high arches specifically, the ECCO and Chaco models offer the most pronounced contouring.

How long is the break-in period for hiking sandals?

Most hiking sandals require 1 to 3 weeks of regular wear to fully break in. Synthetic strap models like the Teva Hurricane XLT2 break in within a few days, while leather models like the KEEN Arroyo 2 and ECCO Yucatan Offroad take 2 to 3 weeks. Chacos are known for the longest break-in, with users reporting 2 weeks of gradual wear before the straps stop causing hot spots. Wearing them around the house and on short walks speeds up the process significantly.

Final Verdict on the Best Hiking Sandals for Men

After four months of testing across technical trails, water crossings, and daily wear, the KEEN Newport H2 stands out as the best hiking sandal for men in 2026. It combines closed-toe protection, water-ready construction, and proven durability at a price that does not require a premium budget.

For budget-focused buyers, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 remains the smartest purchase, with decades of proven design and excellent all-around performance. If you want premium leather and the best arch support, the ECCO Yucatan Offroad is worth every penny for the long-term comfort payoff.

The best hiking sandals for men depend on your trail, your feet, and your budget. Match the sandal to the terrain you actually hike, and any of these nine picks will serve you well for seasons to come.

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