Women's walking sandals

Discover our range of women's hiking sandals, designed for those seeking comfort, lightness and grip on summer trails. From alpine treks to river crossings and seaside walks, top outdoor brands offer models to support you on every adventure.

Why choose women's hiking sandals?

Once seen as simple summer footwear, hiking sandals have become a true technical alternative as soon as the temperature rises. On sun-drenched mid-mountain trails, during warm-weather treks or for approaches that alternate between dry ground and wet crossings, they provide ventilation that closed shoes simply can't match. After a river crossing, your feet dry in minutes. Blisters from sweat are a thing of the past, while the lightweight design keeps your stride light, even after hours of walking.

The benefits of hiking sandals

Beyond their summer look, these models offer several technical advantages, making them a key piece of any outdoor wardrobe:

• Lightweight: ultra-light for long distances, perfect as a back-up to closed shoes in your pack.
• Ventilation and breathability: feet stay cool even in high heat, reducing sweat and friction.
• Versatility on land and water: most models handle trails, river crossings and evenings at camp with ease.
• Grip: sticky rubber soles provide traction comparable to low hiking shoes, on both dry and wet rock.
• Support: adjustable strap systems, often with three points of adjustment, allow you to fine-tune the fit for your foot shape and activity.

How to choose the right pair for your needs

First, consider your main use. For versatile hiking on dry trails, a model with a lugged sole and good heel support will cover most summer outings. If you often hike in wet environments, for beginner canyoning or river walking, choose a fully synthetic construction with quick drainage and a sole designed for wet ground. For camp approaches, carrying loads or multi-day hikes alternating active walking and rest, a lighter model, sometimes in leather, will offer a good balance of comfort and durability.

Sizing is also important. Generally, go half a size up from your usual size, as feet tend to swell with heat and prolonged effort. Make sure your toes don't extend past the sole, your heel is secure without slipping, and the straps allow precise adjustment over the instep. Brands vary in fit, so customer reviews on each product page are a valuable resource for choosing the right size.

Which sandals for which activity?

This selection brings together the best options for hiking, available in a range of colours so you never have to compromise on style. Some names stand out for technical sandals. Teva has set the standard for hikers, with models like the Tirra Sport and Terra Fi Lite, featuring wraparound straps and multi-lug soles for everything from rocky trails to river crossings. Columbia offers the Konos range and Peakfreak Rush, focusing on supportive fit and stability on mixed terrain. For those who favour water-based adventures, adidas Terrex offers the Hydroterra AT, built for water crossings, while The North Face completes the line-up with the Explore Camp Sandal, ideal for recovery after a long day on the trail.

Comfort and support for long hikes

Whether for a day hike or a multi-stage trek, comfort quickly becomes the key to a great experience. Look for these features before choosing a model:

• A cushioned midsole, often EVA, for lasting shock absorption over long distances.
• A well-defined arch support, essential for walks over 10 km.
• Padded straps or soft materials to prevent irritation on the instep and ankle.
• A toe guard at the front, especially useful on rocky or rooty trails.
• Low weight, ideally under 400 g per pair, to keep your stride light.

Care and durability of sandals

Well-maintained hiking sandals can last for several seasons without losing their technical qualities. Rinse your sandals with clean water after muddy or wet outings, and never machine wash, as this can weaken adhesives and deform straps. Air dry out of direct sunlight to protect synthetic materials from premature ageing; leather models need regular conditioning with suitable products to keep them supple. Finally, check the sole for wear: worn grip or rounded lugs mean it's time to replace them for technical trails, even if the rest of the sandal still looks good.

For men's options, see our men's hiking sandals section. Free delivery from £199, a free gift from £299 and free returns within 60 days let you try your sandals at home before hitting the trails.

FAQ: Women's hiking sandals

What is the best brand for hiking sandals?

The answer depends on your foot shape and activity. Teva is a historic leader, known for wraparound straps and versatile land-water soles. Columbia is ideal for those seeking more support and trail focus, while brands like adidas Terrex and The North Face offer more specialised models.

Can women's hiking sandals be used for water activities?

Most hiking sandals transition easily from land to water. They dry quickly, resist salt and chlorine, and their soles maintain good grip on wet rocks. For regular river walking, beginner canyoning or fast-flowing water, choose fully synthetic models with no leather parts, effective drainage and soles designed for wet ground.

And for more demanding hikes, do you need a proper shoe?

When the terrain gets technical, rocky, exposed or the elevation increases significantly, a closed shoe is essential for ankle protection and precise footing. Sandals are still ideal for approaches, valley trails, mid-mountain routes in dry weather, or as a complement to a women's hiking boot carried in your pack for tougher sections.