SQUIRREL_13263182
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
Our Rating:
First Impressions and Fit
Comfort and Support
Grip and Traction
Build Quality and Materials
Check availability at Amazon.
Passenger is a UK‑based outdoor lifestyle brand founded in 2012 by Richard and Alexa Sutcliffe that aims to combine stylish, outdoor-inspired designs with responsible business values like planting a tree for every order and using recycled materials.
The company has seen a surge in popularity in recent years due to its focus on sustainability, affordability and “roam free” ethos, targeting an audience interested in van life, microadventures, and local nature escapes.
The Atlas Roam Sandal embodies the brand’s ethos – designed for casual trail use and everyday wear, it features a recycled rubber sole, a cushioned EVA footbed with added instep support, and multiple adjustable straps for a secure yet flexible fit.
Here’s how they held up over a few weeks of varied use.
- RRP: £39.95
- Weight: 160g (1/2 pair size 5)
- Upper: Textile and synthetic fabric
- Sole: Recycled rubber
- Fastening: Multiple cross over woven strap
First Impressions and Fit
Straight out of the box I really liked the way the Atlas Roam Sandals looked – with the double cross over straps – however, I was a little concerned about the toe strap as I’ve had issues with rubbing and blisters with designs like this before.
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.
Passenger does recommend that if you are between sizes going for the larger size.
Comfort and Support
As I mentioned, the straps were surprisingly comfortable, especially around the toe, and the heel strap almost felt non-existent, which for someone who is prone to blisters was a relief. The multiple cross over straps also distribute the pressure evenly across the feet to reduce rubbing, and my feet didn’t move or slip at all while walking, even on uneven surfaces.
The sandals feel surprisingly supportive for something so minimal in design, especially with the cushioned EVA footbed with instep support that offers a soft base that moulds to your feet over time.
The recycled rubber sole also feels substantial enough for more serious walks without being bulky or heavy.
Grip and Traction
I wasn’t expecting anything too technical in terms of grip from the Atlas Roam Sandals however, the grip genuinely surprised me. The recycled rubber outsole has a decent tread pattern that handled light trails, rocky paths, mud, and damp grass without slipping, and also held up better than I expected on slippery city surfaces.
I wouldn’t take them scrambling over wet boulders, but for casual hikes, beach walks, and uneven footpaths, they’ve felt really stable underfoot. The sole isn’t overly stiff either, so you still get a good feel for the ground while staying secure.
The footbed can get a little slippery when wet, but that’s an issue with most strappy sandals, and the secure straps helped keep my feet in place.
Build Quality and Materials
The build quality on the Atlas Roam Sandals really holds up. They’re made with recycled synthetic materials that feel durable but not stiff, and the stitching and strap finishes are neater than I expected at this price point. They’re lightweight enough to toss in a backpack without thinking twice and pack pretty flat due to the soft material of the strap – ideal for travel or camping.
The multiple adjustment points are simple to tweak on the go, and once I had the fit dialed in, they stayed secure without digging in or loosening over time. It’s a solid, thoughtfully designed sandal that doesn’t feel flimsy or overly bulky.
The straps are currently holding up, however, I wouldn’t necessarily trust them on more technical hikes.
Value for money
At less than £40 I think these sandals are great value for money, look great and are surprisingly versatile and made from sustainable materials.
Sustainability
The soles are made from recycled materials, and Passenger claims to plant one tree for every order. Passenger also claims to have planted 2,225,344 trees and protected 177,966,825 square metres of rainforest, and 74% of its products contain recycled or organic materials.
Should you buy it?
If you’re looking for an affordable, versatile walking sandal that can take you from the woods to a cocktail bar, yes.
Find more in our guide to the best walking sandals.
SQUIRREL_13263182
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