When you are investing in a pair of hiking sandals, the fit needs to be more exact. The right fit will help you avoid foot issues like blisters. The wrong size can also cause soreness when you are out walking, rafting, or camping for extended periods. At worst, the wrong size can lead to slips, falls, and injury.
It can be beneficial to get professionally measured before you start shopping for hiking sandals. This kind of fitting will tell you if you have wide or narrow heels and will also tell you about the kind of arch support that you need. Knowing your stride can also help you determine what features you need to look for.
You can also measure your own feet at home using a variety of different tips and tricks. Whether you measure at home or have a professional help you, consider this as one of the necessary steps that you should take when you start shopping for your hiking sandals. You will have a much better chance of getting sandals that fit your feet perfectly and are much more comfortable.
Not every sandal comes in wide or narrow heel widths for example. You will also find that some sandals have higher arch supports than others. These factors can make a big difference in your comfort overall. Looking for sandals that have multiple adjustments can help fine-tune the fit, whether you have wide, medium, or narrow feet.
Finally, read the online reviews of the sandals that you are considering. People who have purchased and worn the shoe will often comment if the sandals run narrow or wide, or fits just right. The feedback of others will give you a better idea of whether you need to pick a size larger or smaller than your usual size. There are many variables that can go into the way that sandals are made, and many brands have their own unique fitting peculiarities that you can learn about in the reviews.
Perhaps the most important thing for many people is that they want to wear sandals that look nice. No one is very excited about buying sandals that you would rather not be seen wearing to lunch or the store and you should not have to hike in sandals that are functional but just don’t look so great. Buying sandals that also look well-made and stylish is an important consideration as well.
There are a few things that you need to be careful about when you are shopping for hiking sandals. Not every hiking sandal is created with the same attention to detail that you might be expecting. There are some common problem areas that you should be on the lookout for when you are looking into a hiking sandal for your outdoor adventuring needs.
Abrasive Straps
Abrasive straps are the most common issue that can lead to discomfort in a hiking sandal. Some brands try to make really durable straps but this leads to thick or tough straps that will rub your feet raw. Be on the lookout for chunky straps that look like they are made of rough materials or with poor design. These factors can make your straps so tough and stiff that they will never break in properly.
Soles that are too smooth
While this is not always a marker for concern, you should be aware that smooth insoles can lead to more foot slippage, blisters, and burns. Soles that are perfectly smooth can also sometimes get quite warm as they will stick to your feet as your feet warm up. These kinds of soles can lead to burns and other discomforts that can be avoided by picking sandals that have textured soles.
Lack of traction
Hiking sandals really need to have a solid outsole in order to transverse over challenging terrain. When you do not have the right texture on the bottom of your hiking sandals, or if there is inferior rubber material used, you can lose your footing and fall. A great outsole, with excellent traction, will give you the confidence you need while out on the trials.
You should also remember that your feet are most exposed when you are wearing sandals on the trail. If you are hiking in areas that have snake populations or really sharp brush along the trail you will need to take care to watch where you place your feet. Your exposed feet will be very comfortable unless you expose them to risks that are better off avoided. Sandals are not going to protect your feet or toes from these kinds of risks, no matter which brand or style you buy.