These sport sandals can handle anything from the water to the trail.

Upper materials
Most sandals designed for use around water will have a free-draining and quick-drying upper made from a synthetic fabric or webbing straps. It’s common for uppers to fully enclose the foot to provide more protection.

Width and fit
Sandals require a thumb-width of space in front of the longest toe and the heel should be cupped at the rear to prevent it sliding up. Many brands offer wide and narrow options.

Closure
Webbing straps with buckles or Velcro are easy to adjust and to slip on and off. Pull-cord laces provide a better, more adjustable fit along the length and width of the foot.

Outsole
The lug pattern and outsole compound determine how grippy the sandal will be in different conditions. Harder compounds will last longer but don’t provide as much grip as softer options. Widely-spaced, multi-lugged soles are great for muddy trails, while narrower spacing is better for water-slicked rocks and tracks.

Midsole
A stiffened shank offers support and protection to the foot. Arches are supported by a medial post that also reduces twisting.

Footbed
With an anti-microbial treatment to reduce odours caused by sweat, the footbed is generally soft and anatomically-shaped.

Northside Men’s Burke II Athletic $89.99
Hiking sandal with synthetic leather and nylon upper, elastic drawstring closure, breathable inserts, black faux leather overlays, EVA backing, abrasion-resistant toe guard, shock-resistant sole, water-resistant construction, moisture-wicking EVA lining. 580g. www.northside.co.nz

Northside Women’s Burke II Athletic $89.99
Hiking sandal with synthetic leather and nylon upper, elastic drawstring closure, breathable inserts, black faux leather overlays, EVA backing, abrasion-resistant toe guard, shock-resistant sole, water-resistant construction, moisture-wicking EVA lining. 580g. www.northside.co.nz

Chaco Odyssey $179.95
Closed-toe sandal, mesh upper with polyester jacquard webbing, synthetic overlays for toe protection, dual-density EVR midsole, antimicrobial odour control, vegan-friendly construction, non-marking ChacoGrip Plus rubber outsole with 2.5mm lug depth. 587g (m), 500g (w). www.chacos.co.nz

Chaco Z Cloud 2 $159.95
Polyester webbing upper, toe-loop, high-tensile webbing heel risers, injection-moulded ladder lock buckle, dual-density PU midsole, podiatrist-certified LUVSEAT antimicrobial treated footbed, non-marking rubber outsole, 3.5mm lug depth. 610g (m/w). www.chacos.co.nz

Chaco Z Cloud $159.95
Polyester webbing upper, high-tensile webbing heel risers, injection-moulded ladder lock buckle, dual-density PU midsole, podiatrist-certified
LUVSEAT antimicrobial treated footbed, non-marking rubber outsole, 3.5mm lug depth. 594g (m/w). www.chacos.co.nz