Most Supportive

• Pros: Very good arch support, rugged for a clog
• Cons: On the pricey side, backless design might not feel secure enough for some

The same supportive, sturdy footbed that makes Chaco’s sandals some of our absolute faves can also be found in this cute clog. It has a firm (not flimsy) feel that’s a step above a slipper, and its design has been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for supporting good foot health. Meanwhile, the Paonia’s exterior is made with the outdoors in mind: The sole has shallow lugs for added traction, and the suede upper is waterproof to prevent stray puddles from ruining your day.

• Sizes: US 5 to 15 | Widths: Medium | Weight: 10 ounces | Materials: Suede, polyester, PU, rubber

Best for Warm Weather

• Pros: Adjustable Velcro straps, great traction
• Cons: On the pricey side

For summer camping and trips to the desert, an open-toe hiking sandal is the way to go, Peikon says. Nick Johnson, an outdoor clothing designer and travel guide based in Salt Lake City, Utah, previously recommended Bedrock’s Cairn line to SELF, noting that he’s “probably worn them 200 days out of the last year.” (So, not only can you put them through the wringer, but you can trust they’ll still feel great after days and days of wear.) If you want to travel light, this sandal is definitely also suitable for trail use—Johnson says they fit securely and provide great traction on rocks. Most importantly for our purposes here, though, is that the design will let your toes breathe after a sweaty hike.

• Sizes: US 6 to 14 | Widths: medium | Weight: 7.80 ounces | Materials: Polyester, nylon, EVA foam, rubber

Best Lightweight Option

• Pros: Very light, easy to pack, relatively affordable
• Cons: Lacks cushioning and support

The minimalist Xero Genesis (another SELF hiking sandal favorite) is perfect if you want to feel barefoot at camp without actually experiencing nature toes first. The sole is zero-drop, ultralight, and unpadded—plus, it’s trimmable to fit your exact foot shape.. At less than 5 ounces per sandal, the Genesis is also the lightest option on our list, meaning it won’t add much bulk at all to your backpack or carry-on.

• Sizes: US 6 to 11 | Widths: medium | Weight: 4.80 ounces | Materials: Polyester, nylon, silicone, rubber

Best for Recovery

• Pros: Designed for foot relief, breathable, comfy
• Cons: Runs large

One SELF writer found a lot to love about Kane’s Revive slip-on (including its Croc-like perforations), but she was most impressed by the footbed. It’s covered in nodes that provide “a subtle, pleasantly kneading effect that engages my feet more than a standard insole.” She wore them after workouts and rock climbing sessions and noticed that her feet felt “more ‘awake’ and less fatigued,” thanks to the cushy, nubby insole.

• Sizes: US 5 to 20 | Widths: Medium | Weight: 6.44 ounces | Materials: Sugarcane-derived EVA foam

Best for Water

• Pros: Surprisingly comfy, easy to clean, available in cool colors
• Cons: Backstrap is not adjustable

We tested Merrell’s ugly-cool Hydro Moc during 2023’s Sneaker Awards while swimming, walking on sand, and gardening. These light foam slip-ons won the title of best water shoe thanks to their quick-drying, cushioned design. Plus, they weigh just over 6 ounces, with a heel strap that keeps your foot firmly inside. TL;DR: It’s a stylish yet practical option if your post-hike plans involve a dip in the lake, a splash in the river, or a rinse in the campground shower.

• Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Widths: medium | Weight: 6.17 ounces | Materials: EVA foam

Best for Going into Town

• Pros: Easy to pull on and off, stylish
• Cons: On the pricey side

Part cushioned recovery shoe, part coveted gorpcore accessory, Salomon’s Rx Moc 3.0 is sleek and comfy. With a mesh overlay and a sneaker-like silhouette, it’s stylish for when you decide to pop into town but won’t feel out of place if you stay close to your tent, either. Bonus features include pull tabs in the front and back and a stretchy, seamless upper that shouldn’t irritate your skin.

• Sizes: US 5 to 14 | Widths: Medium | Weight: 7.13 ounces | Materials: Synthetic materials, leather, EVA, rubber

Best for Cold Weather

• Pros: Very warm, grippy sole, suitable for damp weather
• Cons: Lacks support and structure

Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean your go-to snow boots are your only footwear option. The North Face’s Thermoball Booties won a SELF Outdoor Award in 2022 for their impressive balance of insulation and durability. They may look like marshmallows that you can wear (and outdoor experts say they do feel incredibly plush and warm), but they can stand up to rough terrain and wet conditions, too, thanks to their water-repellent ripstop fabric.

• Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Widths: Medium | Weight: 8 ounces | Materials: Synthetic fabric, nylon ripstop, polyester insulation, rubber