Sandals And Open Footwear On Long Routes

Sandals and open footwear configurations expose more of the foot to air and water. For some long-distance hikers, this reduces issues with trapped moisture, allows rapid drying after river crossings or rain, and can decrease feelings of constriction. Sandals designed for outdoor use often include secure straps, durable soles, and toe and heel shapes intended for varied terrain.

However, reduced coverage means feet may encounter more rocks, sticks, and other debris directly. This can require more conscious foot placement and may increase the risk of minor cuts or bruising if terrain is rough or unstable. On certain routes, prolonged exposure to cold, sharp rocks, or thorny vegetation can be uncomfortable or impractical.

Some hikers use sandals as dual-purpose footwear, hiking in them and wearing them around camp, thereby avoiding carrying a separate pair of camp shoes. Others reserve sandals for specific sections, such as river-heavy stretches or hot, lower-elevation segments, while using closed shoes elsewhere.

Open footwear also interacts with foot health. For some people, allowing toes to splay freely and maintaining good airflow helps reduce issues such as persistent dampness or friction in confined toe boxes. For others, the absence of upper support may feel less stable.

As with any footwear choice, testing on shorter trips is helpful. Hikers can assess how their feet respond to open footwear over multiple days and in different weather and terrain, refining their approach before committing to long routes in sandals.