Limiting the number of shoes is one of the greatest challenges facing the packing light traveller. While the number and type will depend on the length, purpose, and season of your trip, most people I know have a two- or three-pair limit. More often than not, that includes a pair of good walking sandals. These limitations raise an important question: What are the best walking sandals for travel?
On a recent travel adventure with three friends, the subject of sandals came up. We were sitting on the deck of our apartment rental on the Greek island of Rhodes, having just returned from swimming off the rocky beach below. Someone lamented the fact she hadn’t packed water shoes. Instinctively, we shifted our gaze to our feet. All but one person were wearing Teva Tirra sandals, still damp from our early morning swim. What followed was a discussion about why we chose these particular travel sandals.
Here’s a summary of what we covered.
Versatility
While the multitude of colours offers plenty of choices, I’ve found the chocolate brown or black versions blend better with most outfits. Described as an athletic sandal, they’re stylish enough to take the traveller from an active day to an evening out on the town. They won’t cut it for fancy occasions, but they’re dressy enough to wear with a casual outfit.
Comfort
Comfort trumps style and ‘cute’ when it comes to active travel. A comfortable pair of shoes is a pivotal part of a packed itinerary, and comfort is an area where these shoes excel. They function equally well on country trails, sandy beaches or city streets, remaining comfortable hour after hour.
The soles are thick and durable, with a shock pad at the heel, and an elevated toe bumper. They have excellent traction in wet, steep, or rocky conditions. Teva’s proprietary ‘Spider Rubber’ likely has something to do with it. Ridges on the insole discourage sticking or slipping from perspiration. The fabric lining on the straps is smooth and soft. These contribute to great arch and ankle support. The straps are adjustable in three different places to achieve just the right fit for feet of all ages and characteristics. My own feet are a nightmare to fit, but they’re compatible with the Tirra.
Chances are they can be worn comfortably straight out of the box. Just before leaving for Taiwan, my chocolate brown sandals were looking a little tired so I ordered a new pair in black. They arrived a few days before departure, and I wore them around the house for several hours. They performed marvellously on my trip, with no blisters, chafing, or discomfort.
Adaptability
Teva Tirra sandals perform well in a variety of conditions and circumstances. They’re easily adjusted on long flights when feet tend to swell. Being water-friendly, they’re great for wading or swimming. While most people pack flip-flops for showering, in a pinch the Tirra will do.
Packable
Each shoe weighs 8.5 ounces (241 grams). The straps flatten so they take up little space when packed. Both fit comfortably in one shoe bag, or separated to squeeze into smaller spaces. They’re light enough to clip to the back of a daypack when going barefooted on a sandy beach, or to attach to a backpack to dry. The loop on each heel strap is a durable and secure attachment point.
Serviceable
They’re easy to slip into with no laces to tie, or buckles to fasten. A quick tightening of the strap and they’re good to go. The Velcro at each adjustment point remains where it’s positioned. They’re also easy to clean. Trail dust or beach sand rinses off easily, or a quick scrub with an old toothbrush and dish soap freshens them up.
But…
There are no ‘buts.’ I honestly can’t find fault with any feature of my Teva Tirra sandals. If and when my current pair looks a little tired in a few years, I’ll purchase my third pair.
Mind you, there are likely other products that respond better to the unique needs of individual travellers. Other travel companions have recommended the Chaco ZX/2 Unaweep Sandal and Venice by Keen. But the reality is, once I’ve found shoes that are a good fit with my travel needs, there’s no need to make a change. For me, Teva Tirra sandals check all the boxes.
What are your best walking sandals for travel?
Care to pin it?
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Good review! I have a similar pair from Vibram. I enjoy them immensely. My only issue is that they’re too casual to wear with some of my dresses.
Do you have any recommendations for dressier sandals that have a heel strap and supportive/contoured soles?
Thanks for dropping by Rebekah. The Professional Hobo recommends the Taos: http://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/2013/08/my-search-for-the-perfect-travel-sandal/
There are lots of other recommendations in the comments. For example, the Teva Zirra Lite sound interesting. Good luck with your search.
Anne Betts recently posted…How to make a traveller’s emergency contact card
Do you think that these sandals would be good of casual riding as well. I am currently trying to find some good sandals for the summer casual riding to/from work.
CyclistPro recently posted…How To Choose The Best Cycling Computer
While they have a slightly elevated toe bumper, the toes are exposed and I’d be reluctant to rely on them for any kind of cycling. I’d look for a closed toe design, such as the KEEN Venice or Newport H2. A couple of women in my cycling group wear similar sandals. Thanks for dropping by, and all the best with your site.
Anne Betts recently posted…Nazaré, Portugal
Thanks for a nice review.
This could be a perfect gift for my sister who likes to travel.
I wonder if you have suggestions for the males or is this unisex?
Hi Dan. Thanks for dropping by. The Teva Tirra sandals aren’t listed in the mens’ category. However, there are quite a few choices with filters such as “Quick Dry” and “Water Friendly” to help you focus on what features you value. If you don’t find anything to your liking in the Teva range, check out KEEN and Chaco. Here’s a link to Teva: http://www.teva.com/men-sandals/
Anne Betts recently posted…Packing list for Madagascar
My family and I are hoping to go on fun beach vacation next year. Thanks for providing these great tips for the best walking sandals for traveling. We’re hoping to find a stylish and comfortable shoe to buy.