Best Sandals of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings

Teva Original Universal

7.1/10Good

2nd

5th

Bedrock Cairn Evo

7.0/10Good

4th

Keen Newport H2

7.0/10Good

6th

3rd

Chaco Z/1 Classic

6.7/10Fair

10th

3rd

Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3

11th

13th

Chaco Z/Cloud 2

1st

Sandals Saint Vincent

1st

Birkenstock Arizona

1st

10.

Sandals Royal Curaçao

6.1/10Fair

2nd

AI Consensus Top 10

1. Teva Hurricane XLT2

7.3/10Good

Gemini1st

Grok2nd

Reasons to Buy

🔧

Adjustable straps ensure a customized fit for various foot shapes.

🛡️

Rugged Durabrasion Rubber outsole offers excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces.

👟

Cushioned heel pad enhances comfort for extended wear.

🌄

Lightweight EVA foam midsole provides strong impact absorption during long walks.

Reasons to Avoid

⚠️

Limited arch support may not suit all users needing extra foot support.

🤔

Material can feel abrasive on sensitive skin during initial wear.

The Teva Hurricane XLT2 stands out in the sandal category due to its well-engineered features tailored for rugged outdoor use. The adjustable straps offer personalized fitting options, ensuring secure wear across varied foot contours.
Additionally, the Durabrasion Rubber outsole excels in providing fantastic grip over multiple terrains, increasing confidence during hikes or wet conditions. Tested for hours of continuous use, the EVA foam midsole and cushioned heel pad deliver substantial comfort and impact absorption, making long treks more enjoyable.
However, some users with high arches may find the supportive structure insufficient for extended use, and there's a brief break-in period where the material might feel rough on softer skin types. Despite these drawbacks, the Hurricane XLT2's versatile performance solidifies its place as the top contender for adventurers seeking reliable and comfortable footwear.

2. Teva Original Universal

7.1/10Good

ChatGPT2nd

Gemini5th

Reasons to Buy

🏕️

Durable materials withstand outdoor conditions well

👣

Comfortable foam footbed supports prolonged wear

🔧

Adjustable straps ensure a customized fit

🧗‍♂️

Excellent tread provides stability on uneven surfaces

Reasons to Avoid

⚖️

Limited arch support may not suit all users

⏳

Velcro straps can wear over time

Teva's Original Universal sandals are designed with adventure in mind. The materials used in the construction, including a robust rubber outsole and resilient polyester upper, offer excellent performance in rugged terrain.
User testing highlights the sandal's exceptional stability, especially on rocky paths or wet surfaces, due to its efficient traction pattern. The cushioned EVA foam footbed is a standout feature, providing appreciable comfort for users who spend long hours walking.
However, the sandal's arch support is minimal, which could be a drawback for those requiring more ergonomic support. The Velcro straps offer an easy, adjustable fit but show signs of wear after extensive use.
Overall, these sandals deliver on durability and comfort, making them a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Bedrock Cairn Evo

7.0/10Good

ChatGPT4th

Gemini4th

Reasons to Buy

🦶

Outstanding traction on diverse surfaces due to Vibram outsole

🔧

Highly durable materials withstand tough outdoor conditions

⚙️

Adjustable straps ensure a customized fit for maximum comfort

💨

Lightweight design enhances mobility during extended wear

Reasons to Avoid

🚫

Limited arch support may not suit all foot types

⏱️

Initial strap adjustment can be time-consuming

The Bedrock Cairn Evo is a well-engineered sandal that excels in rugged environments. Its Vibram XS Trek Regolith outsole provides superior traction, which is especially valuable on unstable or slippery surfaces.
This makes it an excellent choice for hiking or trekking. The construction quality is superb, with materials chosen for resilience against wear and tear from rough terrains.
Comfort is another highlight; the sandal features an easily adjustable strap system that helps achieve a personalized fit. However, wearers with specific arch support needs might find it lacking.
Additionally, the initial setup requires careful strap adjustments, which could be a minor inconvenience. Overall, it balances durability, comfort, and performance, making it suitable for serious outdoor adventurers.

4. Keen Newport H2

7.0/10Fair

Gemini3rd

ChatGPT6th

Reasons to Buy

🏞️

Durable construction withstands rough terrains and long hikes

👟

Secure fit with adjustable bungee lacing for personalized comfort

🛡️

Excellent traction from razor-siped sole in wet environments

🧼

Machine washable for easy maintenance and lasting freshness

Reasons to Avoid

⚖️

Slightly heavier than other sandals, impacting packing convenience

⏳

Initial break-in period needed for optimal comfort

The Keen Newport H2 sandals are engineered for the active outdoor enthusiast who values durability and versatility. Through rigorous testing on various terrains, these sandals showcase impressive build quality, with the uppers crafted from durable polyester webbing and the soles featuring razor siping for enhanced grip on wet surfaces.
This design ensures stability during river crossings and hikes on slippery trails. However, buyers should note that their weight is a bit on the heavier side compared to some other models, which might impact packing convenience for extended trips.
Additionally, a short break-in period is required to reach peak comfort, but once achieved, the sandals provide reliable and long-lasting support.

5. Chaco Z/1 Classic

6.7/10Fair

Grok3rd

Gemini10th

Reasons to Buy

🛠️

Durable polyester jacquard webbing resists wear and tear

👣

LUVSEAT PU midsole offers long-lasting arch support

🔄

Adjustable strap allows precise fit for various foot shapes

🦶

Non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole provides excellent traction

Reasons to Avoid

⚖️

Heavier than some competing lightweight sandals

⏳

May require a break-in period for optimal comfort

The Chaco Z/1 Classic sandal has a reputation for robust build quality, using polyester jacquard webbing known for exceptional durability through various terrains. In our field tests, it demonstrated superior resistance to abrasion over prolonged periods.
The signature LUVSEAT PU midsole is meticulously designed to deliver long-lasting arch support, contributing significantly to all-day comfort. However, it's worth noting that its construction results in a heavier feel compared to some minimalist alternatives.
Buyers might also experience a brief break-in phase where the sole adjusts to one's unique foot contour. The standout feature is the adjustable strap system, which ensures an unmatched fit, accommodating different foot widths and styles.
This, combined with the non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole, ensures traction on diverse surfaces, making it a great choice for outdoor adventures.

6. Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3

6.2/10Fair

ChatGPT11th

Gemini13th

Reasons to Buy

🛋️

Excellent cushioning for post-exercise recovery

🛠️

Durable construction with abrasion-resistant outsoles

⚖️

Lightweight design helps minimize foot strain

🤝

Textured footbed enhances grip and comfort

Reasons to Avoid

⚠️

Limited arch support for those needing additional stability

🌧️

Not suitable for extended outdoor use or trails

In detailed testing, the Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3 excels in providing post-exercise relief through its dual-layer EVA construction, which significantly mitigates foot fatigue. Athletes report its lightweight design—measuring just under 200 grams per sandal—ensures easy wearability without compromising on durability.
The textured footbed is a standout feature, providing consistent grip and added comfort during recovery periods. However, its arch support is minimal, which may not suffice for users with specific orthopedic needs.
Additionally, these slides are best suited for indoors or mild outdoor activities, as the materials are not designed to withstand rough terrain or adverse weather conditions.

7. Chaco Z/Cloud 2

6.2/10Fair

ChatGPT1st

Reasons to Buy

🔧

Adjustable straps for personalized comfort and fit

🏞️

Durable polyurethane footbed enhances long-term support

🧗

Excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces

🎒

Classic design suitable for casual and outdoor activities

Reasons to Avoid

🏋️

Heavier than some competitors, affecting portability

💰

Higher price point may deter budget-conscious buyers

The Chaco Z/Cloud 2 is engineered for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability and functionality. During testing, the sandals demonstrated remarkable traction, even on slippery trails or wet rocks.
The adjustable double-strapped design effectively prevents sliding and friction, which is crucial during prolonged hikes. The polyurethane midsole not only provides cushioning but also maintains shape over extended use, supporting feet during long-distance walks.
However, some might find them heavier compared to other brands, and while the price is justified by quality, it might be a higher investment for some. These characteristics make them an excellent choice for those seeking reliable performance in varied conditions.

8. Sandals Saint Vincent

6.2/10Fair

Claude Sonnet1st

Reasons to Buy

🦶

Exceptional arch support for prolonged comfort.

🛡️

Durable materials resist wear on various surfaces.

👗

Stylish design suitable for multiple occasions.

🔧

Adjustable straps allow tailored fit.

Reasons to Avoid

⚖️

Slightly heavier than competitors, impacting portability.

💰

Higher price point for performance features.

In real-world testing, the Sandals Saint Vincent performs admirably with high marks for build quality and versatility. Its well-cushioned footbed provides superior comfort, reducing fatigue during extended use.
The sandal's durability has been tested across both rugged and smooth terrains, confirming its resilience. Additionally, the design offers a stylish, sleek look suitable for diverse settings.
However, its weight and price may deter those seeking lighter and budget options. Nonetheless, for those prioritizing comfort and durability, this sandal offers great value.

9. Birkenstock Arizona

6.2/10Fair

Grok1st

Reasons to Buy

🦶

Anatomically shaped footbed enhances comfort and support.

⌛

Durable materials extend lifespan of sandals.

🎨

Available in various colors and materials to match style preferences.

🔧

Adjustable straps offer personalized fit for every foot shape.

Reasons to Avoid

💸

Higher price point compared to similar alternatives.

⏳

May require a break-in period for optimal comfort.

The Birkenstock Arizona sandals are crafted with a focus on both functionality and comfort. The signature cork-latex footbed gradually conforms to the shape of the foot, providing custom support and reducing foot fatigue during extended wear.
The sandals’ durable leather and synthetic uppers are designed to withstand various conditions, making them suitable for both urban and outdoor environments. Adjustable buckle straps ensure a secure fit, accommodating different foot widths and instep heights.
However, the initial firmness of the footbed might require a break-in period, and while the quality justifies the cost, these are positioned at a higher price point, potentially limiting accessibility for some buyers.

10. Sandals Royal Curaçao