If you’re planning a trip to warmer climes or even a summer camp here in the UK, a good pair of walking sandals can cover many of your requirements, as well as give your walking boots a well-earned rest.
Most good walking sandals will give you plenty of support and avoid blistering by keeping your foot firmly but comfortably in place. It's important to note, if you prefer hiking across rough terrain or need to carry a heavy rucksack, even the sturdiest pair of sandals are unlikely to give you the level of ankle support you need. However, for better-made tracks and urban exploration, walking sandals can be a really good choice.
There are a number of walking sandal styles to consider - including minimal barefoot designs, to sturdy models for more rugged trails - so we've put some of the leading brands to the test. You can also jump to our short buyer's guide for more on what to consider when buying walking sandals.
At a glance:
- Best overall: Passenger Atlas Roam (View availability)
- Best on a budget: Cotton Traders Women’s Lightweight Strider (View availability)
- Best for city breaks: VIBAe Saint Tropez (View availability)
- Best technical option: Konos Hiker 2-Strap Hiking Sandals (View availability)
- Best for foot issues: FitFlop GEN-FF Leather Black Sandals (View availability)
- Best for traction: Columbia’s Peakfreak Rush Shandal (View availability)
- Best minimal: The Xero Shoes Z-Trail (View availability)
Why trust us
At BBC Countryfile Magazine, our expert reviewers test every product in real outdoor conditions from muddy woodland paths to rocky hill trails. We offer honest, experience-led advice to help you choose the right kit. Our reviews are independent, and while we may earn from affiliate links, our recommendations are never influenced by retailers or brands.
This article is regularly updated with new products, price changes and availability to ensure you're getting the best guidance in 2025.
Our testing process
I tested the walking sandals over several weeks, wearing them daily across a variety of terrains including sidewalks, gravel trails, sandy beaches, and uneven paths. I used them for both short errands in the city and longer walks to assess overall comfort. To get a full picture of their performance, I wore them in different weather conditions, hot, rainy, and humid. Throughout the testing, I evaluated key features such as arch support, cushioning, grip, breathability, and how well the straps adjusted for fit. I also paid attention to signs of wear and how easy they were to clean.
Best walking sandals of 2025
Best overall
Passenger Atlas Roam
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13263182
- RRP: £39.95
- Weight: 160g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Textile and synthetic fabric
- Sole: Recycled rubber
- Fastening: Multiple cross over woven strap
Three Things To Know:
- Made from sustainable materials - with a recycled rubber sole
- Lightweight and travel friendly - they pack flat, weigh next to nothing and are great for spontaneous getaways
- Stylish design - better looking than most walking sandals with impressive technical ability
I was pleasantly surprised to find the sandals fit really well, felt secure on my feet with the adjustable strap, and the softness of the strap material didn’t cause me any issues.
These are sandals I would wear out for walks, but also to the office, or out for dinner, which is unusual for walking sandals as they can usually look a bit technical and off putting.
What we liked
- Stylish
- Sustainable
- Comfortable
- Good fit
- Affordable
- Versatile
Things to consider
- Slightly slippery when wet
- Strap might not last forever
Our verdict: The Passenger Atlas Roam sandals are an affordable, versatile and stylish walking sandal.
Get these if: You want a stylish, affordable and versatile walking sandal that will take you from the fields to the pub.
- Read more: Passenger Atlas Roam walking sandals review
SQUIRREL_13263182
Best budget
Cotton Traders Women’s Lightweight Strider
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13263176
- RRP: £30.00
- Weight: 160g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Textile and synthetic fabric
- Sole: Phylon for shock absorption
- Fastening: Three adjustable touch and close straps
Three Things To Know:
- Comfortable and adjustable fit - The triple Velcro straps make it easy to customize the fit, offering decent support for casual summer wear.
- Lightweight and packable - These sandals are easy to carry and perfect for travel or everyday use, thanks to their breathable, lightweight materials.
- Basic traction for easy terrain - They provide solid grip for pavement and light trails but aren’t suited for rugged or slippery conditions.
What we liked
- Lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Easy to adjust
- Comfortable
- Breathable
Things to consider
- Not designed for slippery conditions
- No specific eco-materials
- Less durable than more technical models
Our verdict: A great choice if you’re looking for a budget option that doesn’t sacrifice basic functionality.
Get these if: you’re looking for a solid, inexpensive summer sandal for light walks and treks.
- Read more: Cotton Traders Women’s Lightweight Strider sandals review
- Check availability at Cotton Traders
SQUIRREL_13263176
Best for city breaks
VIBAe Saint Tropez
- RRP: £134.00
- Weight: 150g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Portuguese vegetable-tanned leather from food industry by-products
- Sole: Carbon Step™ antimicrobial contoured footbed
Three Things To Know:
- Sustainably made – crafted with natural rubber, and leather which is a by-product of the food industry
- Distinctive design – with a sleek, minimalist style and slip-on comfort, they stand out from more technical-looking walking sandals
- Best for light use – they're ideal for casual walks and travel, but less suited to rugged terrain or long-distance hikes
Known for combining comfort tech with natural materials, VIBAe puts a lot of focus on foot health without sacrificing style. These are more of a minimalist slip-on than rugged trail sandal, but I was curious to see how it would hold up for everyday wear and light exploring.
VIBAe was started in 2020 by a group of friends from Finland and Malibu, inspired by a campervan trip across Finland. The group wanted to create stylish yet durable shoes that can be worn hiking hills and sipping cocktails, made from durable sustainable materials.
What we liked
- Unique style
- Comfortable with great support
- Lightweight
- Sustainable
Things to consider
- Break in period required
- Pricey
- Not as versatile as more technical models
Our verdict: The VIBAe Saint Tropez sandals are a great choice if you're after a comfortable, sustainable, and stylish option for light walking or summer travel. They’re not built for hiking trails, but for everyday wear, they deliver comfort with a distinct left-field flair.
Get these if: you're looking for a robust yet stylish walking sandal for exploring cities.
Best technical
Konos Hiker 2-Strap Hiking Sandals
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13263626
- RRP: £65.00
- Weight: 185g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Suede and synthetic leather
- Sole: Omni-GRIP™ non-marking traction rubber
- Fastening: Two hook and loop closure straps for adjustable fit
Three Things To Know:
- Breathable but supportive – these sandals strike a nice balance between open-air comfort and the structure you need for light hiking and all-day wear
- Grippy and trail-ready – with a rugged outsole and decent traction, they handle uneven paths surprisingly well for a sandal
- Not just for the outdoors – thanks to their low-key design, they’re just as wearable around town or at a campsite as they are on a summer hike
From the moment I slipped on the Konos Hiker sandals, they felt impressively rugged for something so lightweight – just 372 g per pair in a UK size 5. The synthetic suede upper and two velcro straps gave a sturdy feel but stayed breathable. I adjusted the fit quickly and easily, and appreciated that the straps didn’t budge mid-walk.
I also really liked the understated look of the Konos Hikers, they don’t scream “technical sandal,” so I’d happily wear them around the city without feeling like I’ve just wandered in from the trail. They’ve got a clean, low-key design that blends in easily with everyday outfits, which makes them a versatile option beyond just outdoor use.
What we liked
- Comfortable for a full day of walking
- Versatile appearance
- Lightweight
- Good grip
- Antibacterial sole
Things to consider
- Runs small
- Minimal arch support
Our verdict: The Women's Konos Hiker 2-Strap Hiking Sandals are a great addition to your summer wardrobe – stylish, and robust enough to keep you company on most summer walks.
Get these if: you’re looking for a versatile and durable mid-price walking sandal for outdoor summer activities.
SQUIRREL_13263626
Best for foot issues
FitFlop GEN-FF Leather Black Sandals
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13264193
- RRP: £80.00
- Weight: 250g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Polyester webbing nylon
- Sole: Slip-resistant rubber
- Fastening: Adjustable hook-and-loop straps
Three Things To Know:
- FitFlop is a brand known for comfort - designed with biomechanical support in mind, if you value arch support and cushioning, they deliver
- Adjustability is a win - two Velcro straps let you dial in the fit, especially useful in warmer weather when feet swell
- Not an eco-leader (yet) - while FitFlop is making some progress, this model isn’t part of their more sustainable lines
I’ve always appreciated FitFlop for striking a solid balance between style and comfort, so I was excited to try the GEN-FF Adjustable Webbing/Leather Back-Strap Sandals. FitFlop is known for their biomechanically engineered footwear that aims to reduce foot fatigue without sacrificing looks, and these sandals definitely carry that reputation forward.
The chunky sole is incredibly comfortable and these sandals have been granted the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for footwear found to promote good foot health. They’re ergonomically engineered to help optimise your body’s alignment and the light, pressure-defusing Microwobbleboard midsole and triple-density cushioning follow three footstep stages – firm heel/soft middle/medium at the toes.
From the moment I slipped them on, I could tell they were designed for all-day wear, perfect for city strolls or casual summer outings where I want both support and breathability.
What we liked
- American Podiatric Medical Association approved
- All day comfort
- Adjustable fit
- Stylish
- Versatile
- Durable
Things to consider
- Not the most eco-friendly choice
- Pricey
Our verdict: Supportive, smart-looking, and built for all-day wear, the FitFlop GEN-FF sandals are a great choice for casual walking and travel. Not the greenest option, but a reliable all-rounder if comfort and style are your priorities.
Get these if: you want a technical walking sandal that looks good enough to wear all the time.
SQUIRREL_13264193
Best for traction
Columbia’s Peakfreak Rush Shandal
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13263165
- RRP: £80.00
- Weight: 244g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Protective synthetic cage
- Sole: ADAPT TRAX™ outsole
- Fastening: Quick lace system
Three Things To Know:
- Hybrid and multipurpose – These sandals blend the breathability of a sandal with the structure of a trail shoe. They're ideal for travel, urban exploration, or summer hikes, no need to switch footwear mid-adventure
- Support over plushness – The cushioning is firm and responsive, giving your feet real support over long distances
- Good airflow, sturdy construction – The quick-drying mesh upper keeps your feet cool and ventilated
The grip on these walking sandals is impressive. The ADAPT TRAX™ outsole provides exceptional traction in wet and dry conditions, both on muddy rural terrain and slippery city streets, making them great for summer and spring showers.
The outsole is thoughtfully designed with multi-directional lugs and flexible forefoot grooves that enhance ground contact and allow for natural movement, while deflection domes in the heel and forefoot add cushioning and rebound. Despite its sandal-like ventilation and lightweight feel, it performs more like a trail shoe when it comes to grip, giving you the freedom to explore without sacrificing stability.
What we liked
- Supportive
- Lightweight
- Great grip
- Breathable
- Quick drying
Things to consider
- Not the best looking
- Expensive
- Can rub on sides of feet
Our verdict: While the performance holds up well, the bulky, trainer-like design isn’t the most flattering, especially if you want something more minimal. Still, they’re a versatile shoe with great grip for active warm-weather days.
Get these if: if you’re happy with the style and price point, and prioritise grip and traction.
- Read more: Columbia Peakfreak Rush Shandal review
SQUIRREL_13263165
Best minimal
The Xero Shoes Z-Trail
SQUIRREL_BUTTON_13271820
- RRP: £80
- Weight: 122g (size 7)
- Upper: BareFoam comfort layer
- Sole: FeelTrue rubber grip pods
- Available: Women’s sizes 3 – 10 (no half sizes), men’s sizes 5 – 12 (no half sizes)
Three Things To Know:
- Hybrid and multipurpose – These sandals blend the breathability of a sandal with the structure of a trail shoe. They're ideal for travel, urban exploration, or summer hikes, no need to switch footwear mid-adventure
- Support over plushness – The cushioning is firm and responsive, giving your feet real support over long distances
- Good airflow, sturdy construction – The quick-drying mesh upper keeps your feet cool and ventilated
The Z-Trail EV is designed for trail walking and running, and offers a walking experience as close to barefoot as you’re likely to get. Lightweight, packable, comfortable and good-looking, there's plenty to like about this design.
The looser hold may feel odd at first, but the rubber sole and all-over flexibility gives these sandals a reassuring level of grip.
What we liked
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Allow your feet to move naturally
- Super packable
Things to consider
- No ankle support
- Feel initially unusual
Our verdict: A minimalist walking sandal that mimics the feeling of barefoot walking. Worth trying if you’ve struggled with other types of sandals.
Get these if: you want a great lightweight travel sandal that can handle light summer walks.
- Read more: The Xero Shoes Z-Trail review
SQUIRREL_13271820
Also consider...
KEEN Astoria West Women’s Sandal
- RRP: £90
- Weight: 271g
- Upper: Includes recycled PET plastic bottles
- Sole: Non-marking outsole with Aquagrip rubber. EVA insole
- Available: Women’s sizes 3 – 12 (including half sizes)
Pros: Excellent level of support, designed for water as well as land, quick-adjust bungee system
Cons: On the chunky side, may feel hot in warm weather
- Read more: KEEN Astoria West Women’s Sandal review
SQUIRREL_13265654
Merrell Women’s Kahuna III
- RRP: £100
- Weight: 288g (size 7)
- Upper: Pig suede with an antimicrobial Lycra neoprene lining
- Sole: Vibram TC5+ rubber sole
- Available: Women’s 3 – 9 (no half sizes), men’s 6 – 15 (no half sizes)
Pros: Comfortable fit, additional ankle support, anti-microbial uppers
Cons: Slippy in some wet conditions, limited colour choice, no half-size
SQUIRREL_13090368
Hoka Hopara
- RRP: £105.00
- Weight: 170 grams (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Synthetic and neoprene
- Sole: Rubberised EVA midsole with sticky rubber outsole
- Available: Women’s sizes 3 – 12 (including half sizes), men’s sizes 7 – 13 (including half sizes)
Pros: modern look and feel, all round support, built to last
Cons: tricky to put on, no heel adjustment, might not suit narrower feet
- Read more: Hoka Hopara review
SQUIRREL_13121838
Walking sandals buyer’s guide: how to choose the right pair for your walks
Why choose walking sandals?
A pair of walking sandals is a constant summer staple in my outdoors arsenal because they give me the freedom and comfort I can’t always get from regular shoes or boots.
On warm days, I love feeling the air on my feet while still having the support I need for long walks. Unlike shoes, I don’t get that hot, stuffy feeling, and unlike boots, they’re lightweight and easy to slip on and off. The cushioning keeps my steps light, and the adjustable straps mean I never have to worry about them feeling too tight or too loose.
Whether I’m exploring a new city, strolling along the beach, or just running errands, I find that walking sandals strike the perfect balance between practicality and ease. They let me enjoy the journey without thinking about sore feet, and some of them are a lot more stylish than they used to be.
What should you look for in a walking sandal?
When choosing a walking sandal, comfort and support should be your top priorities. Look for a cushioned footbed with good arch support so your feet stay comfortable over long distances. Adjustable straps are essential – they let you customise the fit and prevent rubbing or slipping, especially if your feet swell in the heat.
A durable, non-slip sole will give you stability on different surfaces, from pavements to trails. Breathable materials help keep your feet cool and dry, while quick-drying fabrics or water-resistant finishes are a bonus if you plan to walk in wet conditions.
It’s also worth checking that the sandal feels lightweight but still sturdy, so you get the freedom of movement without sacrificing durability. Think about what you're going to be using the sandals for – summer walks on varied terrain, walking through water, city breaks – and that will also help you decide whether you want lightweight, waterproof, leather, or maybe a more technical sandal.
And finally, always test them out by walking a few minutes – the right walking sandal should feel comfortable straight away, not something you need to “break in.”
Lightweight vs. heavy-duty: Which is best?
When I’m out walking in the countryside, choosing between lightweight and heavy-duty sandals always comes down to the kind of day I’m planning. I love lightweight sandals for warmer, easy-going walks – they’re breathable, barely there on my feet, and perfect for meandering along gentle trails or through village streets. Plus, they dry quickly if I splash through a stream or puddle.
But when I’m tackling rougher terrain or planning a longer hike with a backpack, I reach for my heavy-duty sandals. They have thicker soles and sturdier straps that protect my feet from rocks and uneven ground, giving me the confidence to push further without worrying about discomfort or damage.
For me, it’s about having the right sandal for the right adventure – sometimes light and easy, sometimes tough and reliable. If you’re like me, it’s worth considering what your usual walks involve before making a choice, but having both types in my kit means I’m ready for whatever the countryside throws at me.
Open toe or closed toe?
When it comes to choosing between open-toe and closed-toe walking sandals, I’ve found both have their perks depending on where I’m heading. Open-toe sandals are fantastic for warm weather – they keep my feet cool and let me feel more connected to the ground, which I love on easy, sunny walks. They’re quick to dry if I step in a stream and generally lighter, so my feet don’t feel weighed down.
Closed-toe sandals, on the other hand, give me extra protection when I’m tackling rougher terrain or areas with more debris like rocks, twigs, or even nettles. I’ve had times when that little bit of extra coverage saved me from cuts and scrapes. Plus, they often feel a bit more secure on uneven ground.
For me, it comes down to where and how I’m walking. On a gentle country stroll or a summer day out, open-toe sandals are my go-to. But for rugged trails or anywhere I might encounter hazards, I prefer the peace of mind that closed-toe sandals provide. Having both options ready means I’m prepared no matter what nature throws my way.
Never miss a review
Sign up to our free Tried & Tested newsletter for the latest product recommendations straight from the trails.
Have we missed any walking shoes you'd like to see reviewed? Want to share your experience with any of the above models? Contact leonie.helm@ourmedia.co.uk
