9 Best Backpacking Sandals of 2026: Durable Picks That Last on the Trail

KEEN's Whisper offers the same closed-toe protection as the top pick but in a lighter package that dries faster and slips on easily with a bungee lace system. It's comfortable for all-day wear and provides good arch support, making it suitable for hiking and water activities. However, the fit runs small — ordering a half size up resolves this — and occasional seam separation has been noted under heavy use, so it's not as durable for rugged backpacking.

The Teva Hurricane XLT2’s rubber outsole and cushioned topsole deliver solid grip and comfort on day hikes and wet trails. Heel blisters can occur for some, and sole separation has been reported after extended use — this sandal suits budget-conscious hikers who stick to maintained paths and shorter trips.

The Viakix Women's Sport Sandals deliver a fully customizable fit through multiple Velcro straps, making them a rare option for wide-footed hikers. The soft insole and arch support keep feet comfortable on day-long trails, though the open design lacks the toe protection of closed-toe models. This is a solid choice for budget-conscious day hikers who prioritize fit over rugged terrain capability — just be aware that the footbed can get slick when wet and the Velcro may loosen with heavy use over time.

Unlike closed-toe budget options in this set, the UBFEN sandals focus on open-toe comfort with noticeable arch support and quick-dry materials. For women with wide feet who want a cost-effective day-hike sandal, these deliver good moderate-trail durability. The wide fit won't suit narrow-footed hikers, and the construction isn't designed for multi-day backpacking loads.

At just a few ounces, the Plaka Explore tucks into a daypack without adding weight, and its contoured footbed delivers noticeable arch support — rare at this price point. While closed-toe hiking sandals offer more protection on rocky terrain, the Plaka’s open design keeps feet cool and works best on paved paths, boardwalks, and groomed trails. It suits women who want one sandal for sightseeing and casual walks, but skip it for off-trail treks or carrying heavy packs. The heel strap can cause irritation for some foot shapes, so fit may require adjustment.

The Teva Tirra delivers outstanding arch support and cushioning, paired with a three-point strap system for a precise fit. Its narrow shape may not work for wide feet, and durability falls short for rugged backpacking — better suited for light day hikes and travel.

This sandal delivers notable comfort and arch support for daily wear and light hiking, backed by a soft footbed and attractive style. However, sizing can be inconsistent and it's less suited for wet conditions or rugged terrain where durability matters more.

The closed toe cap and anti-slip sole provide protection on rocky trails and wet surfaces. The narrow toe box may pinch wider feet, and the sole can wear faster on rough terrain, making this more suited for maintained paths and water crossings than heavy off-trail use.