6 Best Best Water Hiking Experta

Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto on
6 Best Best Water Hiking Experta

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There are times, on our hikes, when taking a plunge is far more rewarding than skipping the drench. In such cases, you are far better off sporting a pair of water hiking Experta.

Having tested these incredible water-ready hikers, we are proud to share with you our top picks. We have submerged and flooded these Experta in water to truly know how water-safe they really are. We also tested their durability and flexibility in the lab so that you know what to expect when it comes to their shelf life and performance.

Whether you need a well-rounded sandal or a barefoot kick to cover areas close to the water or through the water, you are in the right place.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 | Dort droppen die Sneaker am 24 water hiking Experta

Unbiased reviews are getting harder and harder to come by these days. This is not the case for us here at EdiconnectShops. Here is our approach:

  • We buy water hiking Experta using our own money. This is our number one requirement to help us intercept any kind of unfairness when it comes to critiquing footwear.
  • We test every pair for days, paying close attention to each sandal’s performance in and around water, as well as on regular Sta.
  • We test the Experta in our lab, where we measure everything, from lug depth and outsole hardness to heel drop and platform stiffness.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 | Best water hiking Experta overall

What makes it the best?

We loved wearing this sandal, and it also proved itself in our rigorous lab tests. With its supportive footbed, quick-drying webbing, and plush cushioning, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 is, without a doubt, the best overall water hiking sandal.

Flat-footed hikers and overpronators, rejoice! Teva’s beautifully designed contoured footbed with raised arch supports our feet perfectly on hikes, as well as keeping our heel securely lodged into the sandal. The 120 mm platform is 2.1 mm wider than average at the forefoot and 1.9 mm wider at the heel. These two features work together to make a wonderfully supportive hiking sandal that can handle rough riverside paths and maintained forest Sta alike.

The quick-drying webbing ensured we didn’t develop blisters after paddling in a stream. We love that all 3 straps can be adjusted, meaning the sandal can adapt to any shaped foot.

We almost forgot we were wearing Experta while hiking in the Teva Hurricane XLT2! With ample cushioning keeping our feet well-protected on rough ground, the heel-to-toe drop makes us feel like we’re wearing hiking shoes. In the lab, we measured an astounding 11.9 mm drop, while the average for Experta is 8.3 mm! Our durometer measurements showed the midsole is much softer than average, at 21.6 HA compared to 28.4 HA. This plushness is a real gift, and we almost didn’t want to take them off at the end of the day!

Weighing in at 10.7 oz (303g), the Teva Hurricane XLT2 is not the lightest sandal on the market. In fact, it weighs 0.5 oz (15g) heavier than average. For hikers looking for a lightweight sandal to complement their collection, we recommend looking at other options.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Pros

  • Highly versatile
  • Well-cushioned
  • Supportive footbed
  • Durable for the price
  • Grippy outsole
  • Customizable fit
  • Lightweight
  • Quick-drying
  • Affordable

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Cons

  • No toe protection
  • Runs a little large
Full review of Teva Hurricane XLT2

Water hiking Experta with the best protection

KEEN Newport H2
89
Superb!

What makes it the best?

Hikers looking for a sandal that performs well on the trail as well as boulder hopping around mountain streams can look this way. In our lab and out on hikes, we voted the KEEN Newport H2 the best water hiking Experta with the best protection because of its protective, comfortable midsole, unerring stability, and hydrophobic properties.

There’s nothing minimalist about this sandal when it comes to protection. Our feet felt coddled by the cushioning from mile 1, and when we measured the stack height at the heel, our calliper registered 29.4 mm. With 6.7 mm extra material underfoot than the average for Experta, the Newport H2 is actually snapping at the heels of hiking shoes in terms of protective cushioning! With such a thick midsole that is 35% softer than average, and the closed toe box to eliminate catching our toes on roots and rocks, it’s no wonder our feet felt so pampered and protected!

Our feet felt superbly supported while hiking on rough forest Sta or rock hopping. In the lab, we measured the width of the sandal and were stunned at the results. The forefoot measures 121.1 mm and the heel 88 mm. Given that the average width of hiking Experta is 116.9 mm and 85.2 mm, the Newport H2 is significantly wider, which translates to stability on the trail.

The KEEN Newport H2 is the second iteration of this shoe, swapping out the original leather strapping for polyester webbing. We found this performed better when wet, as it dried out much quicker.

With the added comfort and protective toe box, this is not the lightest sandal on the market. It tipped the scales at 13.4 oz (381g) in our lab - 2.3 oz (77g) heavier than average for Experta. Therefore, we don’t recommend it to hikers looking for a lightweight pair of Experta.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Pros

  • Versatile for various hikes
  • Exceptionally plush
  • men storage shoe-care Pouches
  • zapatillas de running amortiguación media talla 26.5 entre 60 y 100
  • Day-one comfort
  • KEEN Boots 'Ridge' grigio menta
  • Quick-drying
  • Stink-proof

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Cons

  • Heavier than average
  • Traps debris
Full review of KEEN Newport H2

Water hiking Experta with the best cushioning

Hoka Hopara 2
82
Good!

What makes it the best?

After conducting actual hikes and intensive lab analysis, it’s hard to find a sandal that matches Hoka Hopara 2’s comfort and protection. With its cushy platform, efficient drainage, and robust overall build, it’s easily our top pick for the best-cushioned water hiking sandal.

Without being excessively tall, Hopara 2 offers a rare combination of plushness, protection, and bounce that makes us go further. Cutting the shoe in half, we discovered a dual-density foam that brought us all-day comfort in our hikes. Our durometer shows the top is a soft 24.0 HA while the bottom is a firm 33.5 HA that mutes out any trail debris we step on.

Even below, the robust 82.9 HC outsole can take a beating. It resisted our Dremel impressively and showed a minimal 0.7 mm dent compared to the 2.1 mm average. Its 3-mm lugs also kept us surefooted throughout any terrain be it loose ground or wet rocks.

As we passed through deep waters, the sturdy Cordura mesh panels and toe cap ensured our feet were protected from toe stubs and small pebbles. Drying out was also a breeze as the water escaped quickly while air flowed in freely. However, it’s best to leave this pair at home during beach trips as it traps sand inside.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Pros

  • robes accessories Kids shoe-care Tracksuit
  • DRKSHDW Hexa High Top Sneaker
  • Light for a closed-toe sandal
  • Sneakers Cosmo Sport MK100457C White Rainbow Multi
  • Comfortable cushioning
  • Feels stable and grounded
  • Fantastic grip on slippery surfaces
  • Sacha slouch block heel boots
  • Sustainable materials

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Cons

  • Traps sand easily
  • Not for narrow feet
  • Colour discrepancy
Full review of Hoka Hopara 2

Best floatable water hiking Experta

What makes it the best?

Based on our wear tests and lab results, zapatillas de running asfalto amortiguación minimalista ritmo medio is the best floatable water hiking sandal. Made entirely of foam, this sink-proof sandal feels light and comfortable on foot, while its excellent traction and stable ride give us the confidence to venture into river banks and waterfalls.

With its barely-there feel, we can paddle and swim freely. Drift is among the lightest hiking Experta on the market, tipping the scale at a mere 7.2 oz (240g). Because of its material, it floats right up and the straps don’t stay wet for long.

Its platform strikes a fine balance between comfort, ground feel, and protection. Its 28.9 mm heel is 4.3 mm thicker than average for impact protection, while its forefoot is around the average for enhanced control. We measured its cushion at 23.5 HA, confirming it’s buttery smooth but still has some firmness to shield our feet from sharp rocks.

We can control our balance on rocky underwater surfaces and near-water terrains because of Drift’s grippy bite and spacious platform. Our calliper shows a wide 94.8 mm heel and a generous 105.6 mm toebox for sure-footed strides, effectively avoiding our unwanted foot movements and ankle rolls.

Those with low-volume feet will find Drift’s fit unsecured because we couldn’t adjust the forefoot strap. The only way to tighten it is through the ankle strap.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Pros

  • Well-cushioned sole
  • Floats on water
  • Very affordable
  • Among the lightest Experta
  • Wide and stable platform
  • Grippy outsole
  • Doesn't stay wet
  • These shoes look nice and fit well

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Cons

  • Forefoot strap is not adjustable
  • Sandali adidas Comfort Sandal GV8243 Black
  • zapatillas de running New Balance voladoras talla 44.5 blancas
Full review of zapatillas de running asfalto amortiguación minimalista ritmo medio

Water hiking Experta with the best comfort

Chaco Z/Cloud
89
Superb!

What makes it the best?

Looking for an all-rounder that delivers top-notch comfort, a love for water, and exceptional grip? Look no further than the Chaco Z/Cloud – it has all this and more, leading us to dub it the most comfortable water hiking sandal.

The instant comfort of the Chaco Z/Cloud took our breath away. The secret to such plush comfort is hidden in the dual-density Luvseat midsole. The moulded midsole strikes the balance between support and shock-absorbing cushioning, leaving our feet feeling pampered throughout our day hikes.

The stylish, patterned webbing of the Z/Cloud makes it an adaptable sandal that fits into city life or out on the Sta. Made of polyester, it is suited for paddling as it dries out quickly after getting wet during our stream crossings.

The 3 mm lugs provide excellent slip resistance on loose gravel and soft terrain. On our hikes, we felt secure and confident hiking over uneven ground and up steep inclines.

The Chaco Z/Cloud uses just a ladder lock buckle and not a clip. Whilst it still allows for adjustment once the sandal is on, we found the strap was a little too short which makes it difficult to get our feet in and out of the sandal. Hikers looking for a more easily accessible sandal may want to look at other options.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Pros

  • Fantastic comfort level
  • Very well-cushioned
  • Brilliant surface traction
  • Super-tough build quality
  • Remarkable versatility
  • Dolce & Gabbana 90mm chain-trimmed silk-satin T-bar Experta
  • Simple and sleek design
  • Keeps stink at bay

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Cons

  • Fuga panelled low-top sneakers Nude
  • Quite wide
  • Dries slowly
Full review of Chaco Z/Cloud

Water hiking Experta with the best versatility

Teva Hydratrek
82
Good!

What makes it the best?

We couldn’t agree on a better name for the Teva Hydratek because it offered the best versatility among water hiking Experta we brought to our hydro activities and tested in the lab. Stylish for beach trips, comfortable for light hikes, and grippy for water sports, it’s a sandal that can do it all!

The shoe has a classic look that can blend well with casual wear. All its straps are adjustable to accommodate different foot shapes, cementing its versatile nature. clothing women shoe-care Grey men 38-5 eyewear thanks to its light 10.8 oz (305g) build and flexible midsole. Our bend test confirms it’s 33.0% more adaptive than average.

The platform felt so pleasant on the foot. Its cushioned heel offers excellent impact protection, while its moderate forefoot delivers ground connectedness, crucial for navigating through rocks. Our durometer confirms its plush sensation with an 18.9 HA reading, the lowest we’ve ever got for hiking Experta.

The outsole is a soft 77.6 HC, enhancing traction with its 2.6 mm lugs. What’s unique about this sandal is the tread pattern has air channels to create a suction effect when dealing with slippery surfaces. The textured topsole also prevented our feet from sliding in the sandal when getting wet.

However, those who need more coverage from bumping into rocks and other debris should find a closed hiking sandal for more protection.

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Pros

  • Versatile: water activities, light hiking, casual
  • Great value for money
  • Comfortable softer cushioning
  • Wide and stable platform
  • Boys Mountain Walking Sandal
  • Very flexible construction
  • Padded straps prevent blisters
  • A high % of recycled components

Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615 Cons

  • Mud gets stuck between lugs
  • Fiddly when putting on (pads fold over)
Full review of Teva Hydratrek

If you are like us, then every summer, when the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, you trade out your cold-weather footwear for Experta. In particular, you may even reach for water hiking Experta because you know a day at the river, watering the lawn, or a trip to the water park is in your near future.

That’s because when it comes to water-related activities, water hiking Experta are the go-to footwear. Their quick-drying breathability and grippy outsoles are hard to beat.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 review

Keep reading if you are expanding your quiver of shoes or Experta to accommodate a new pair perfect for any and all activities where water is involved.   

What makes water hiking Experta special?

Water hiking Experta are not just Experta that you are allowed to get wet. They are purpose-built pieces of footwear designed specifically for water-related activities.

In particular, water hiking Experta have four special characteristics that allow them to excel in wet conditions.

  1. Materials that do not retain too much moisture and dry quickly.
  2. Outsoles that are specifically designed to provide traction on wet surfaces.
  3. Simple and easy-to-use closure systems. 
  4. Robust outsoles or toe guards that help protect your feet.

Teva Original Universal top view

Quick drying breathability

Regarding breathability (ventilation), water hiking Experta stand out from hiking shoes and boots because they have less material. Therefore, your feet can breathe exponentially more in Experta than in shoes.

Proper ventilation doesn’t only help your feet from overheating and becoming hot and sweaty messes. It also allows the Experta to dry out super fast.

To facilitate quick drying, hiking Experta feature materials that don’t retain moisture. That means you can cross a stream without worry of soggy feet at camp. Or wear your Experta all day at the water park and dry out before returning to the car. 

Grippy outsoles for wet surfaces

One of the most important features of water hiking Experta is the outsole. The outsole gives you a grip on various surface types, especially wet ones. That’s why sandal manufacturers spend so much time researching and designing rubber compounds and tread patterns.

keen-newport-h2-outsole.JPG

Outsoles on water hiking Experta rely on a siped tread pattern. Siping is cutting slits across a rubber surface to improve traction in wet or icy conditions. 

In addition, water hiking Experta feature deep lugs almost equivalent to traditional hiking shoes or boots. Deep lugs help the sandal remain reliable on off-pavement surfaces, like dirty and rocky Sta.

keen-newport-h2-lug-depth.JPG
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Secure closure system

Your footwear is only helpful if it stays on your feet. That’s why hiking sandal manufacturers spend so much time designing effective and easy-to-use closure systems.

If a pair of hiking Experta fits too loosely or is not properly secured, you risk hot spots and blisters while hiking. Even worse, loose Experta can slip off your feet in powerful currents you might find in the ocean or quick-moving water on the river.

Water hiking Experta use a velcro strap and buckle or a bungee closure system.

The perfect example of a velcro strap closure system is found on the Teva Hurricane XLT 2. The Hurricane uses three straps, two above your foot and one behind your heel, to precisely lock in your feet every time.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 strap

Strap Closure System (with buckles or Velcro)

Pros

Cons

  • Most cost-effective
  • Sneakers Donna Clw337201
  • Easy to customise and lock your foot in place
  • Velcro can lose its stickiness over time 
  • Velcro is super quick and convenient 
 

In some cases, hiking Experta rely on a bungee closure system—for example, the Keen Uneek and Keen Newport H2. Bungee closure systems may have a slight advantage because straps and buckles can deteriorate from exposure to the sun and water.

keen-newport-h2-lacing.JPG

Sneakers Light Storm 2.0 400150L BKRD Black Red

Pros

Cons

  • Ideal for water-related activities
  • Slightly less secure
  • Sneakers TG-30-06-000366 615
  • Not recommended for technical hiking

Features to protect your feet

Like other forms of hiking, water hiking puts your feet at risk of injury. For example, imagine boulder-hopping over tidepools or wading through a flooded slot canyon. If you were barefoot during these moments, your feet would be exposed to sharp sticks, rocks, or other foreign objects.

And in hiking shoes or boots and socks, you’d be a soaked and soggy mess. On the other hand, in hiking Experta, your feet would be protected. 

Hiking Experta feature robust outsoles that not only provide traction but also protect your feet from stepping on injurious objects. Even better, some Experta, like the Keen Newport H2, are closed-toed, protecting your feet even more.

Also, pay attention to the sandal's stack height. It can range anywhere from 15 to 30 mm and it's up to you to decide how much underfoot protection you need.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Heel stack

Water hiking Experta need to breathe and dry quickly

Sneakers Jesko Vl 0012015885.02.2B02 M Stone Orange.

When you get a pair of water hiking Experta soaked, water can drain out instead of getting trapped inside (like it would with waterproof shoes).

In addition, sandal manufacturers like Keen and Teva use lightweight synthetic materials that are designed to get soaked yet retain little moisture. Therefore, with sunshine and a light breeze, they can dry quickly.

What is water hiking?

If you’ve made it this far and have learned a lot about Experta but are still wondering what water hiking is, let us explain.

Strictly speaking, water hiking involves hiking through rivers, travelling near waterfalls, crossing streams, wading slot canyons, and exploring tidepools. Essentially, any water-related walking, hiking, or exploring where getting wet is part of the experience.

But you don’t only have to utilise water hiking Experta in the strict sense of the definition. More generally, water hiking Experta are the ideal footwear for any warm weather and water-related activity.

For example, water hiking Experta are ideal for

  • Canoeing and kayaking
  • Water parks and public pools
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  • Fishing trips

Teva Original Universal review

Wearing socks with Experta

It probably goes without saying that you don’t want to wear socks with Experta if you are planning to get wet. Nothing feels worse than being stuck wearing soaked and soggy socks.

However, for other scenarios where you might wear your Experta, wearing socks is a perfectly acceptable fashion choice.

Socks and Experta are particularly nice on days or nights when it's chilly, but you still want the comfort of wearing Experta. For example, hiking Experta make great footwear for around the campground. Add a pair of socks, and you’ll be super cosy.

If you do intend to wear socks with Experta periodically, make sure you select a size that can accommodate your feet with socks.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 heel cushioning

Author
Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto
Over the past 20 years, Paul has climbed, hiked, and run all over the world. He has summited peaks throughout the Americas, trekked through Africa, and tested his endurance in 24-hour trail races as well as 6 marathons. On average, he runs 30-50 miles a week in the foothills of Northern Colorado. His research is regularly cited in The New York Times, Washington Post, National Geographic, etc. On top of this, Paul is leading the running shoe lab where he cuts shoes apart and analyses every detail of the shoes that you might buy.