4 Reasons Why Trekking Sandals Should Be Included On Your Next Packing List

Adventure travel is the fastest growing travel genre in the last decade. People are choosing alternative forms of travel instead of staying in traditional hotels and sightseeing tours. Travel companies are taking advantage of this growth and are creating itineraries that include hiking, rafting, ziplining, and much more.

With the growth of adventure travel, one of the most important items to pack is the right shoe. Shoes can make or break the comfort level of your trip. If you don’t have the right shoe, then you could be up a creek. But which shoe should you include? Below are four reasons why you should put trekking sandals on your packing list for your next adventure.

1. They Are Comfortable

Trekking sandals are amazingly comfortable. Most of the sandals form to your feet and have adjustable bands to fit your foot. The two main brands, Teva and Chaco, have built in adjustments for your particular needs. Chacos do not have Velcro or ties. They have one continuous band that can be adjusted at the top of the foot and at the ankle. Alternatively, Tevas can have three different adjustable Velcro points on the shoe.

Like any new shoe, do break them in before you go on long hikes. If you have never worn these types of shoes, it may take a little getting used to. A tip, if you have thinner ankles, Tevas may be the better route because Chacos are not made to be extremely tight around the ankle.

2. Perfect For Hiking Through Water and Heat

This detail is what sets these types of shoes apart from normal sneakers. Trekking sandals are at their basic fundamental, sandals. This means they allow the wind, water, and everything else into the shoe. If you are someone whose feet get hot in covered shoes or you are in a very warm climate, these are the perfect way to keep your feet cool.

Also, they are essential for hiking through water. Since they are sandals, the water can easily flow through the sandal and the water doesn’t weigh down the shoe like a normal sneaker. Also, they dry faster than normal sneakers which means you can keep hiking and have drier feet faster.

3. They are Lightweight and Easier To Pack

It is always a concern when packing of whether you will be over the weight limit. This is especially important if you are doing overnight hikes or hiking for long periods of time. But trekking sandals are known for being lightweight and compact. These sandals are specifically designed to be lightweight because of their use in hiking and water. Recently, Teva has even come out with a line of trekking sandals that are even more lightweight than the previous ones.

Additionally, these shoes are more flexible and can save you space when packing. They can be put in your daypack, top of the suitcase, or in your carry on. Or if you really need to save space, you can wear them when you travel because they can be used as a normal sandal as well.

4. You Can Show Your Personality

Don’t think these trekking sandals are just boring black and white sandals. All of the trekking sandal brands have a wide variety of colors. These colors range from red, green, yellow, and more. Specifically, Chaco has a wide selection of patterns that are perfect to show your unique personality.

Each brand has different styles as well. Teva provides sandals with double straps at the top, single strap, one continuous strap, and more. Chaco also has double and single straps. The design that is perfect for you will fit your foot. One style may not work on your particular foot, but there are plenty of others to try.

If you are planning on taking a hike through Australia, kayaking in Ha Long Bay, or climbing waterfalls in Bali, don’t forget to include a pair of trekking sandals in your packing list. You won’t regret bringing these comfortable and versatile sandals with you.