Teva Hurricane XLT2
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
Key Features
- Quick-dry webbing made from recycled plastic using traceable REPREVE polyester yarn by Unifi, designed to support your foot while withstanding wear and tear.
- Easy hook-and-loop closure for quick on-and-off access, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
- Injection-molded strap ends provide quick grip and adjustability for personalized comfort.
- Robust EVA footbed enhances comfort, making these sandals ideal for all-day wear.
- EVA-foam midsole offers lightweight cushioning, while the nylon shank stabilizes and supports your foot on uneven surfaces.
- Rugged Durabrasion Rubber outsole delivers excellent traction, making it suitable for various outdoor activities.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Nylon
- Inner material: Nylon
The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable hiking sandal with significant performance features at a budget-friendly price. It offers superb arch support, a nicely tractioned outsole, and a customizable fit, providing excellent value for money. Its versatility makes it a potential replacement for multiple types of footwear during summer adventures.
This sandal delivers notable stability and durability, ensuring comfort over varying terrains. Additionally, the traction provided by the outsole enhances grip, contributing to secure footing on hikes. Users can appreciate the balance of functionality and affordability in this design.
One drawback to consider is that while it excels in many aspects, it may not offer the same level of cushioning as some other premium hiking sandals. However, for its price point, it remains a commendable choice for those prioritizing performance in their outdoor gear.
KEEN Newport H2
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
Key Features
- Water-Resistant: Quick-dry washable synthetic straps and lining ensure active use in and out of the water all summer long.
- Support & Comfort: Featuring a lace lock bungee capture system for a secure fit, these sandals provide quick on and off access, complemented by shock-absorbing support for enhanced cushioning.
- Traction & Protection: Equipped with multi-directional lugs and siping channels, they offer superior grip on slippery terrains, while non-marking rubber outsoles leave no imprints indoors or on boats. The iconic toe bumper adds an extra layer of safety against injury.
- Fit & Insole: Designed with KEEN's original fit, they provide ample space across the forefoot, allowing toes to spread out comfortably. A non-removable footbed with added arch support ensures all-day comfort.
- Care Tips: The KEEN water sandals are machine washable; just use a small amount of detergent on a gentle cycle and air dry away from heat to keep them fresh and ready for your next adventure.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Synthetic
- Inner Material: Mesh
The KEEN Newport H2 is a top choice for those seeking a closed-toe hiking sandal that offers significant stability and protection. It excels in both lab tests and real-world hiking conditions, providing excellent traction while keeping toes safe from sharp objects.
This sandal prioritizes protection, featuring a rubber-coated toe cap and a measured stack height of 29.4 mm at the heel. This thickness is 6.7 mm greater than the average, delivering notable defense against sharp rocks encountered on trails.
In our stability assessments, the KEEN Newport H2 demonstrated impressive results. Its platform width contributes to this stability, with measurements of 121.1 mm at the forefoot and 88.8 mm at the heel, making it wider than many winter hiking boots and exceeding the average widths for hiking sandals by 4.2 mm and 3.6 mm, respectively.
We confidently navigated various terrains, including wet rock and dry gravel, owing to the sandal's effective lug design. With a lug depth of 4.1 mm, which closely aligns with the 4.3 mm average for hiking shoes, the Newport H2 provides reliable grip on diverse surfaces.
However, flexibility is a drawback of this model. During lab testing, we found that bending the sandal to 30° required 14.8N, significantly more than the average of 9.0N for hiking sandals. Consequently, hikers who prefer a more flexible footwear option may want to consider alternatives.
Teva Hydratrek
Pros
- Versatile: water activities, light hiking, casual
- Great value for money
- Comfortable softer cushioning
- Wide and stable platform
- Enhanced grip on wet surfaces
- Very flexible construction
- Padded straps prevent blisters
- A high % of recycled components
Cons
- Mud gets stuck between lugs
- Fiddly when putting on (pads fold over)
Key Features
- Quick-drying upper materials for optimal comfort in wet conditions
- Engineered with a technical tread that effectively disperses water underfoot
- Toe coverage providing protection and durability during rigorous use
- Speedlace Closure system makes it easy to put on and take off
- Low profile, lightweight EVA midsole offers close-to-the-ground stability
- Sticky Spider Rubber outsole designed for superior grip
- Sustainability Initiative: 93% recycled mesh upper and 30% recycled EVA topsole
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber for durability and traction
- Outer material: Nylon providing water resistance
- Inner material: Nylon ensuring breathability
The Teva Hydratrek is a versatile sandal best suited for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfort and stability during summer activities. Its softer midsole and well-padded straps enhance comfort for prolonged wear, making it suitable for various settings.
The reimagined traction pattern provides a significant grip on wet terrain, allowing for enjoyable light hikes along the shore. Additionally, the design ensures that the Hydratrek performs well in casual environments, such as coffee shops.
Overall, the Teva Hydratrek offers notable all-purpose footwear for water-related summer activities at an accessible price point. However, some users may find that it lacks the aggressive movement support needed for more demanding hiking situations.
Teva Hurricane Drift
Pros
- Well-cushioned sole
- Floats on water
- Very affordable
- Among the lightest sandals
- Wide and stable platform
- Grippy outsole
- Doesn't stay wet
- Vivid color options
Cons
- Forefoot strap is not adjustable
- Too loose for narrow feet
- Not for serious hikes
Key Features
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Full injection-molded EVA construction: This design ensures that the sandals are not only lightweight but also provide ample comfort and support.
Easy hook-and-loop instep closure: The quick-release mechanism allows you to get in and out of the sandals with ease while ensuring a snug fit.
Floats in water: These sandals are so light that they can float, making them ideal for lake or pool days.
Specifications
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Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
Origin: Imported
Sole Material: Synthetic
Outer Material: Synthetic
The Teva Hurricane Drift is an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a floatable water hiking sandal. This product is designed for those who prioritize comfort and stability during aquatic activities, including river hikes and waterfall explorations.
Constructed entirely of foam, the Hurricane Drift is lightweight, weighing only 7.2 oz (240g), which enhances its usability in wet environments. Its notable traction and stable ride provide confidence on both riverbanks and rocky surfaces, while the materials allow it to float easily and dry quickly.
The platform offers a balance of comfort, ground feel, and protection, featuring a heel that measures 28.9 mm, which is 4.3 mm thicker than average for enhanced impact protection. The forefoot maintains an average thickness for improved control, while our testing confirms a cushion measurement of 23.5 HA, providing a smooth yet firm underfoot experience against sharp rocks.
Drift’s design includes a grippy outsole and spacious platform, with a heel width of 94.8 mm and a toebox measuring 105.6 mm. These measurements contribute to secure footing and help prevent unwanted movements and potential ankle rolls on uneven terrain.
A drawback to consider is that individuals with low-volume feet may find the fit inadequate, as the forefoot strap is non-adjustable. Tightening is limited to the ankle strap, which may not provide sufficient customization for some users.
Chaco Z/Cloud
Pros
- Fantastic comfort level
- Very well-cushioned
- Brilliant surface traction
- Super-tough build quality
- Remarkable versatility
- Amazing arch support
- Simple and sleek design
- Keeps stink at bay
Cons
- On the heavy side
- Quite wide
- Dries slowly
Key Features
- Limited-edition polyester jacquard webbing upper that wraps around the foot for a customized fit.
- Adjustable and durable high-tensile webbing heel risers.
- Injection-molded ladder lock buckle for secure fastening.
- Luvseat PU midsole that provides excellent arch support and comfort.
- Vegan-friendly construction, suitable for eco-conscious consumers.
- Chacogrip outsole for superior traction on various surfaces.
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Polyester
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
The Chaco Z/Cloud is a versatile water hiking sandal designed for individuals seeking exceptional comfort and grip during their outdoor activities.
Its notable comfort stems from the dual-density Luvseat midsole, which effectively balances support with shock-absorbing cushioning. This feature ensures that feet remain comfortable even during extended day hikes.
With stylish, patterned webbing made of polyester, the Z/Cloud seamlessly transitions from urban environments to trail adventures. Its quick-drying capability makes it suitable for paddling and stream crossings.
The 3 mm lugs enhance slip resistance on loose gravel and soft terrain, providing stability and confidence while navigating uneven ground and steep inclines.
The Chaco Z/Cloud features a ladder lock buckle instead of a clip, allowing for adjustments once worn. However, the strap may be too short, making it challenging to enter and exit the sandal comfortably. Hikers desiring easier accessibility might consider alternative options.
KEEN Uneek
Pros
- Head-turning cord design
- Ultra flexible construction
- Impressively durable outsole
- Intimate contact with the ground
- Grippy on wet and smooth surfaces
- Feels light and airy on the foot
- Cords made of recycled materials
Cons
- Not much support
- Little protection from debris
Key Features
- Ultra-lightweight design for agility and speed during hikes.
- Recycled P.E.T. plastic bungees that adapt to the shape of your foot.
- Airy open panels providing breathability and keeping feet cool.
- Quick-dry lining for effective moisture management.
- Washable upper for easy maintenance.
- KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN traction enhances grip on different surfaces.
- PFC-free water repellent materials contributing to eco-friendliness.
Specifications
- Rating: 4.2 out of 5 (based on 199 reviews)
- Material: Recycled P.E.T., durable rubber outsole
- Weight: Lightweight, designed for performance
- Sizes: Available in multiple sizes for optimal fit
- Color options: Various colors available to suit personal style
The KEEN Uneek is a distinctive water sandal designed for individuals seeking both style and functionality. It is well-suited for daily wear, light hikes, and aquatic sports, offering an eye-catching cord upper that enhances airflow and promotes quick drying.
This adaptive sandal features notable flexibility, demonstrated by its low 1/5 torsional rigidity score when tested for twist resistance. Longitudinally, it is **57.0%** more bendable than the average sandal, making it one of the most flexible options available, which contributes to comfort during extended use.
The midsole of the KEEN Uneek provides balanced cushioning and good arch support with its moderate inner curve. The sandal also offers excellent ground feedback, supported by a **20.5/12.9 mm** stack height, allowing for a supportive yet naturally responsive feel underfoot.
However, the smooth outsole and minimal "lugs" may not provide adequate traction for rugged trails. This stylish sandal is better suited for beach outings or leisurely strolls along riversides.