Best Overall
Plaka Explore Walking Sandals
Key details
- Use
- Walking and hiking
- Straps
- Adjustable
- Arch Support
- Built-in
The Plaka Explore is the pair we recommend first for a trip built around walking. It is a walking sandal rather than a casual strappy pair, with built-in arch support, a cushioned footbed, and adjustable straps that hold the foot close without pinching. We like that it feels purposeful without looking like a piece of hiking gear, and it is light enough to slide into a daypack when you switch to sneakers for a long museum afternoon.
The sole flexes enough to roll through a step, which matters when you are covering miles on pavement rather than just standing around. The straps sit close to the foot at the toe and ankle, so the sandal stays put on uneven ground, and the footbed has enough shape to support the arch without feeling rigid. It is not as plush as the Skechers On-The-Go, but it feels more stable for a full day of sightseeing.
The fit is the one thing to sort before you leave. These can run about half a size large for some feet, so if you are between sizes, size down or plan to use the straps to take up the extra room. They dry quickly and pack flat enough for a tote, which is why they earn the top spot over plusher pairs: they are the most complete travel walking sandal in this set.
Pros
- Purpose-built walking and hiking design
- Built-in arch support and cushioned footbed
- Adjustable straps hold the foot securely
- Lightweight and quick-drying for travel
Cons
No notable drawbacks to flag.
We recommend the Plaka Explore as the default travel walking sandal because it balances arch support, secure straps, and light weight better than anything else here.