I was sceptical about the flattish, straight-line tread on these light-feeling sandals but was ultimately impressed with how well it gripped on slimy rocks, and the wide, shock-absorbing heel is particularly cushioning. The neoprene pad comes too far up the instep for my liking and the front three straps rubbed on the inside of my wide feet (even with the drawcord loose) and my middle toes occasionally popped out of the outside vent on the top. The ankle strap makes for a secure fit and the horizontal pull-on strap was the easiest to use, but the glue on the interior elastic started failing after only a couple of days’ solid use. The instep-positioned vent kept my feet cool but also allowed grit to get in, and then you’ve got the strap and bungee to undo to shake it out. Though they feel spongy, these sandals resisted odour better than other neoprene-heavy options thanks to a zinc anti-bacterial treatment, and their streamlined look is suited to casual wear in summer. For the weight, I would have liked a more rigid sole for kicking into the hillside but these squashed easily into the side pocket of my pack.
Weight: 498g
Price: $139.95