I don't have sandals but I do keep a pair of water shoes with a hard rubber sole in my bag.

They dry quick plus are comfortable for walking in when my boots are not on.

They just slip on and have a net type material with elastic that keep em on.

 

My highschool job was as a White water Rafting Guide. We all had either Chacos or Teva sandals. Those things are a god send. Good grip, durable enough to be soaked over and over, and #1 is that they let your feet dry out on the fly. Many a time, I would have some city person who would come wearing cross trainers, or even "water shoes". And after 4 hours on the water their feet would be water logged and pruny.

Take a 20 minute shower sometime and look at your feet and hands. Thats what happens. So if you are hiking long distances and not changing your socks at lunch stops etc., then you are just soaking up sweat. Which of course creates all sorts of nasties in your toes. And that leads to Trench foot and other bad bacteria/fungal parasites.

If I am doing an all day hike, I change socks at least once. And once im at camp, i am sure to take my boots and socks off and wear some cheapo flip flops for this reason. And I also dont wear socks in the sleeping bag. Unless its really really cold of course

 

I have a pair but not for the reason you list. At the end of the day I will take off my boots (increased ankle support) and but on my sandals/shower shoes in order to let me tired feet dry and breathe.

Not to mention if I am given the opportunity to bathe in a river or pond to clean off then I would want something on my feet in the event there are sharp stones or glass on the rover/ponds floor that could cause a nasty cut and ultimately lead to infection.

But to hike in, never. There are many ways to prevent immersion foot or trench rot that do not involve hiking in delicate footwear.

 

I live in South FL so sandals are a year round item and I have a pair in my pack. Just make sure if you do choose (which I would) them for your pack I would also pack sunscreen. If you are used to wearing shoes and then expose the tops of your feet to the sun you will burn which will make whatever other shoes you're wearing uncomfortable.

 

I like Chaco’s but they are pretty heavy for backpacking. I have a couple pair and recommend the non-toe strap version so it’s easier to wear them with wool socks (get the version that has the strap that crosses the whole toe box area). I have backpacked in them and they are pretty stout, but make sure you build up your ankle strength. With wool socks, you can wear them in very cold temperatures (but make sure you have extra socks to rotate).

I’ve recently tried going with some minimalist sandals and I’m having second thoughts for extended use. They’re fine for around camp or walking around without a pack, but you really need to practice “barefoot” walking if you plan to cut significant weight. I have a pair dedicated for backpacking, but I would strongly recommend something more stout like Chaco’s for a bug-out scenario.

As mentioned sandals are excellent at allowing your feet to breath and provide enough protection to avoid any serious cuts. Using them more often will really toughen up and strengthen your feet.

With a quality pair like Chaco’s, you could really extend their use by adding some extra nylon webbing as you could maintain them yourself. Of course, having webbing, a knife and an old tire will also allow you to have primitive footwear for the real long term.

I’ve even done some serious bushwhacking with Chaco sandals in central Texas. Much like being barefoot, it slows you down and makes you pay attention to your path and footing. I never had anything more than a few scratches, but my feet were more than protected. Additionally, I’ve hiked through some swampy areas that I would never do barefoot and they provide a lot of psychological comfort! Quality sandals like Chaco would be a great addition to hiking boots/shoes.

ROCK6

 

I wear Teva sandals a lot. Closed toe version that offers toe stub protection. Like a Roman Legionnaire's sandal. Excellent for keeping feet ventilated while still providing good support and traction. They don't dry out as quickly as more open construction models, but still function well as beach, river, or wet ground wear...and offer a snug fit that you can run in.

Like these:

I have also found them to be really useful for walking in sand dunes. Most of the sand runs out and it takes seconds to clear away any buildup. With regular boots or hikers, you are going to get sand inside the footwear and have to stop periodically to remove. I have used them hiking through fine powder dunes in the Negev, beaches/dunes in the southern USA, and also at Great Sand Dunes National Monument.

I used a pair of these across three long deployments to Iraq, and they were my year round footwear anytime I was not wearing combat boots. Six years later, I still use them for all manner of yard work, chores, painting, roof work, etc. Liked 'em so much, I got a second pair. Durable as all get out.

Naturally, they are also great in any situation where your feet are likely to get wet. I like to clip them to the outside of my pack for use in camp and for stream crossings. No heavier than running shoes.

And they're great for general purpose daily wear anytime except during winter.

 

I wear Teva sandals a lot. Closed toe version that offers toe stub protection. Like a Roman Legionnaire's sandal. Excellent for keeping feet ventilated while still providing good support and traction. They don't dry out as quickly as more open construction models, but still function well as beach, river, or wet ground wear.

Like these:

I have also found them to be really useful for walking in sand dunes. Most of the sand runs out and it takes seconds to clear away any buildup. With regular boots or hikers, you are going to get sand inside the footwear and have to stop periodically to remove. I have used them hiking through fine powder dunes in the Negev, beaches/dunes in the southern USA, and also at Great Sand Dunes National Monument.

I used a pair of these across three long deployments to Iraq, and they were my year round footwear anytime I was not wearing combat boots. Six years later, I still use them for all manner of yard work, chores, painting, roof work, etc. Liked 'em so much, I got a second pair. Durable as all get out.

Naturally, they are also great in any situation where your feet are likely to get wet. I like to clip them to the outside of my pack for use in camp and for stream crossings. No heavier than running shoes.

And they're great for general purpose daily wear anytime except during winter.

Those are awesome, will definitely be checking them out. :thumb:

 

I don't care for the idea of sandals due to the chance of thorns, stickers, insect stings etc. A pair of lightweight desert type boots like I wore in Iraq is a better choice. I'd even wear a quality pair of moccasins over sandals.

 

Wow, just noticed you live the same place as my Sister! To the OP, I like Tivas. I'm on the same pair I got in 1998. They are in bad shape thoug and either need replaced, or attention with a needle and thread. I have, and do hike in them, and even ke them on in the water at the beach. :thumb:

 

I use the Keen brand, looking similar to the Teva, just a bit more funky, fresher colours- and a more sturdier rubber front tip. Hitting a rock and you will understand why it is so cool to have a protected tip.

I found out never to walk barefoot is the best- due to insects worms and other nasty stuff like Athlete's foot...

On the other side to walk with a boot all the day is not recomandable. Your feet do need a relieve and your boots too.

 

I carry a pair of Teva Terra Fi 3's.

These things are incredible. Going on 2 years of constant use and abuse. They're all I wear outside during the spring, summer, and fall, while working on the farm. One time I strapped on some wool socks and went tromping through the snow with them.

The reason I carry them is primarily for camp shoes. But I did a hike one time in unconditioned feet that left me with multiple blisters. I took the boots off, and put on the Tevas, which allowed my feet to dry, AND removed the pressure points on the blisters, which allowed me to finish the hike.

Useful as they are, they weigh 2 freaking pounds. So, I'm currently looking for some lighter sandals for my pack, but I still wear them around the farm every day.

 

I'm thinking about some Crocs. They even come in camo. LOL!

 

I have those same ones just without the yellow.

Mine have dark burnt orange trim. They change the bling color every year or so, but the basic sandal remains the same.

 

SHTF... Am I gonna do it in sandals? Hopefully not. But can I walk all day in flip flops, yes. One busted toe, sliced instep, or nail puncture through the sole and youre in a double S-SHTF.

Chacos are probably the best. Get the older thick sole if you can. Tevas are close 2nd.

 

Seconds on Keens ! ! !

Used them for years & never unhppy with them. For backpacking, they allow excellant footwear around camp so you can kick off your boots & relax without unduely risking injury.

For daypacking, I've gone for MILES & miles through mountain trails, creeks, you name it & never a complaint.

For travel, they can't be beat. Wear to the beach during the day, then to dinner that night, & as shower shoes when you bath ! ! !

 

+1 on the Tevas. Got mine for $5 at a thrift store and love them. In Florida summers, you will sweat all through boots. I point out to others that the VC fought the US Army wearing similar shoes and pajamas in a climate just like mine. Why reinvent the wheel?

 

Yup, Not sure of the brand, but have a pair of heavy duty (and heavy) sandals. Almost the same sort of rubber as a tire is made out of, with nylon straps and a plastic push connector at the ankle. Bought them for shore trips from the sailboat. They stink though unless you wash or rinse them constantly. You know those pictures of the fish leaping from the water ? This is because somebody with these sandals stepped into the water.

 

If the situation calls for them, they'll be worth having. It's really that simple if you can afford the space or weight.

Chacos, Tevas, and the like are nice to have.

 

I have a pair of Chacos and LOVE them. They have Vibram soles like my Asolo hiking boots. Really a solid pair of sandals and if the weather was warm enough... I'd be more than happy to have them as my primary hiking foot ware.

 

The Z/1 models can be used with wool socks even in cold weather. I've hiked with them and they work both in cold and warm temps...

ROCK6

 

Just fit them good. Is makes walking in them on uneven ground tough when they are all loose and sloppy fitting.

 

All sandals suck, can't fight one on one in them. Light weight boots work for me.

 

You were watching the fern hoppers from Humboldt State wandering around in the redwoods. It is a wet environment and sandals might be okay in the warmer weather.

For long term use they expose your feet to kicking rocks, tree roots, and twisted ankles. Many people that wear sandals develop cracks in their feet. River runners now have all kinds of better footwear for wet conditions. I bought a pair of shoes made for walking in water for the side canyons of the Grand Canyon. They are vastly superior to sandals. I like the old LL Bean style shoe pacs with rubber bottoms and leather uppers for cooler weather.

 

All sandals suck, can't fight one on one in them.

Sure you can. I've grappled in mine. Shot on ranges with mine. Gone running, bicycling, and swimming. Conducted water jumps under parachute. And gone on local security combat patrol a few times while in Afghanistan. Snug fit, good traction, and they ain't coming off. You can deliver strikes and kicks.

You just have to find the right model. I'm not talking flip flops or beach sandals.

 

With my feet and you want me to wear sandals.. I wear 14EEEE

ever see em in sandals? me neither

 

Just mod out a small pair of snow shoes. Kidding asde, ya, I seen sandles in your size. Not common, special order or custom item, but doable.

 

Just spent two weeks going through the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River. Wore Tevas, other guys I was with wore Keen. These are great for on the water, at camp on shore, etc. - but not for hardcorps climbing up the sides of the canyon. There are much better hiking shoes than Tevas sandals.

Same thing goes for hunting and hiking much above 5,500 feet ASL. Can you hunt in sandals? Sure. Is it a great ideal? Not in my opinion. It gets pretty cold up there...

 

I have a nice pair of Tiva's. I go everywhere in them. Very comfortable. In Florida, fire ants are a minor problem and you have to watch your step when it comes to a couple of poisonous snakes. Nutsedge burrs can be a real problem but other than that, a good pair of Tiva's are great down here.

 

Not a sandal but one of my favorite style was the Apache moccasins. They tied around the ankle keeping out dirt and rocks.

 

It's going to snow where I'm at eventually and if I have to run from something I want to have on shoes or boots. Taking showers at a public campsite, that's all together different, let me borrow your slippers: