Hiking Sandal

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Why you should have a hiking sandal in your backpack

Hiking about the right footwear for the right situation. Boots, socks, insoles are all important. But have you ever thought about a Hiking Sandal?

The right hiking sandal can be very beneficial. Have you ever crossed a stream that was so deep, it came above the top of your waterproof boot? When you got to the other side, you had a boot full of water. If you had a pair of hiking sandals, you could switch to them before crossing the stream and kept the inside of your boots dry.

What about at your campsite? Have you ever taken your boots off and really wanted to let your feet "dry" out from the hike only to find that walking around the campsite in bare feet is painful or worse, dangerous? Well, again, a hiking sandal could help let your feet dry and protect them at the same time.

So let's talk about selecting a hiking sandal.

Finding the Right Hiking Sandal 

Just picking up the first Hiking Sandal that you find may not be the wisest thing to do. Like other hiking footwear, there are some characteristics that you need to keep in mind in order to choose the right sandal.

  • Style - Don't select a sandal that is not designed for hiking. If you choose a "walking" or "fashion" sandal, you will be disappointed in the support and durability.
  • Support - Make sure that the sandal has a formed foot bed. It should provide arch support and be shaped to your foot.
  • Straps - Don't buy sandals with a Velcro connection strap. Velcro tends to release in water. Select a hiking sandal where the straps clip.

One more thing, some people like to where sandals for general hiking. This does work on flatter terrain for shorter day hikes. Don't use sandals for long hikes. Also, remember that sandals provide no ankle support. Lastly, make sure that there is not gravel or other small loose objects on the trail or they end up in your sandal. Not a good combination.

Sandals are a great lightweight addition to your backpack that can help create a better hiking experience.

Hiking Sandal Selection Guide Below

Thong or open hiking sandal 

These provide less protection for your feet on the trail, but are lighter weight and work well in water situations. They provide some cushioning and traction in river situatons. An especially good sandal for around the campsite. Not really designed for hiking conditions.

Teva Men's The Original Performance Sandal

Amazon Price: (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Teva Men's Hurricane 3 Outdoor Sandal

Amazon Price: (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Teva Women's Open Toachi Sandal

Amazon Price: (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

More protective hiking sandal 

Of course, things are relative. Protective Sandal could be an oxymoron. Anyway, these protect more of the foot including the toes. They are going to be a bit heavier in your pack. These can be a nice alternative to boots for short hikes.

Teva Women's Omnium Sandal

Amazon Price: (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

Teva Men's Omnium Sandal

Amazon Price: (as of 01/06/2010) Buy Now

The Hiking Sandal is not the only Footwear for your Adventure 

Your hiking boots, socks and insoles are very important as well. They should all work together to create a balance for your hiking adventure.

These articles discuss how to decide on which footwear product is right for you.

by GeorgiaHiker

I have been hiking my entire life. Well, since my mom told me to go outside and play. If she only knew how far I went from the house, but I was always... (more)

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