Running sandals provide freeing and primal experience when running, and they are an ancient and proven solution for all types of runners. They are secure and free — providing you with an excellent body-earth connection.
The open toe box and minimalist sole increase proprioceptive sensing to ensure sure-footing and body-brain connection. Whether you are running through the desert, on the beach, or the trails, it is crucial to have the best running sandals to support joints, keep you fit, safe, and comfortable.
After extensive research and consultations, we have put together a list of the best sandals for running on different surfaces and terrain. Read on to see our top pick for men and women, and how to choose an option that would suit your style and needs.
The Best Running Sandals Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Xero Shoes Z-Trail Lightweight Running Sandal |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Skechers Performance Women’s Running Sandals |  |
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| 3. Teva Men’s Hurricane XLT Running Sandal |  |
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| 4. Teva Women’s W Sirra Sport Sandal |  |
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| 5. Skechers Women’s On-The-Go Sport Sandal |  |
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| 6. Xero Shoes Men’s Tarahumara Huarache Style Lightweight Running Sandals |  |
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| 7. Chaco Women’s Zcloud 2 Sports Sandal |  |
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| 8. Chaco Men’s Z1 Classic Running Sandal |  |
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| 9. Luna OSO Hiking and Running Sandals for Men and Women |  |
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1. Xero Shoes Z-Trail Lightweight Running Sandal — Best Sport Sandals
The Xero Shoes Z-Trail Lightweight Running Sandal is one of the best sports sandals on the market, thanks to its ergonomic build. This sandal offers great flexibility and it is very easy to wear and take off. It is a super-lightweight sports sandal that you can wear for the whole day without feeling any discomfort.
You can also use this sandal to run on different surfaces and terrains, including trail running. It is 76 percent thinner and lighter than many sports sandals out there. Xero designed it to provide you with all the comfort and support you want and need. The sandal also comes with a 5,000-mile warranty.
It is ideal for jogging, hiking, canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, Crossfit, workout, and more. You can also travel with this sandal with ease, as it is only 10mm thin, and it is highly flexible to roll up and pack in your bag.
The sandal also comes with a non-elevated, zero-drop heel to enhance natural posture. It comes with a non-marking sole that provides great traction and support. The sandal is water-resistant, which means you can use it in any weather condition. It also features a Z-style webbing that provides a secure and snug fit.
The sandal allows for easy adjustment and customization also. This minimalist trail sports sandal comes with a comfortable and supportive midsole. You can get this sandal in three different colors, with sizes ranging from 6-wide through 14-wide.
Specs
- Material: Synthetic
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 6 – 14
Pros
- Super lightweight and thin
- Comes with 5,000-mile warranty
- Comfortable straps for easy adjustment
- Ideal for use in any weather condition
Cons
- Makes an unpleasant slapping sound
2. Skechers Performance Women’s Running Sandals
The Skechers Performance Women’s Running Sandals is a highly durable and supportive running sandal. These sandals are a great addition to the wardrobe of a lady, and they are comfortable enough to wear all day, every day. You can use these sandals to trek for long, run errands, go hiking, or trail running.
The sandal is made with synthetic and it comes with a highly durable, lightweight rubber outsole. This footwear is radically lightweight and it is extremely comfortable on the fee. It comes with a responsive 5Gen midsole cushioning that ensures your feet remain comfortable while running or walking. It comes with a soft fabric lining and a Goga footbed that does a great job of returning energy.
The sandal is also designed to protect your foot while keeping you comfortable at the same time. For ultimate support and protection, the midsole of the sandal molds to the shape of your feet. The sandal is available in three different colors, with sizes ranging from 5 through 11.
The rubber sole of this sandal provides great traction and stability on different surfaces. It features a rugged design that ensures you remain on your feet regardless of how smooth or rough the terrain is. It is also one of the most affordable running sandals on our list.
Specs
- Material: Synthetic
- Gender: Women
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 5 – 11
Pros
- Highly responsive 5Gen midsole cushioning
- Lightweight and durable rubber sole
- Provides ultimate protection and support
- Extremely comfortable
Cons
- Not available in half sizes
3. Teva Men’s Hurricane XLT Running Sandal
If you are looking for a running sandal that feels effortlessly good in any situation, you should consider the Teva Men’s Hurricane XLT Running Sandal. This sandal is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, including exploring new places and spending more time on your feet. The sandal is made with 100 percent polyester webbing, which is a premium quality material. The material is highly durable and lightweight.
It comes with a rubber outsole that provides nice support and keeps you stable while running. The sole promotes good posture and it offers great traction too. For additional support and stability, the sandal comes with nylon straps and shank. Teva designed this sandal to be both durable and highly comfortable.
The traction of the sandal is highly dependable, and the credit goes to its Durabrasion Rubber sole. This feature makes it ideal for all types of terrain, whether rough or wet. It comes with a midsole that is made with EVA foam, and it provides lightweight cushioning, ensuring your feet are always comfortable.
The midsole also does a great job of absorbing shock while you walk or run, and this helps to keep your feet and knees safe. It also comes with a hook-and-loop system that is pretty easy to use, and it allows you to customize the fit. For additional protection, the sandal comes with a padded heel strap also. The sandal is also available in 21 different colors and styles, with sizes ranging from 7 through 16.
Specs
- Material: Polyester Webbing
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 7 – 16
Pros
- Made with highly durable materials
- Simple yet stylish
- Lightweight and extremely comfortable
- Allows for a customized fit
Cons
- It requires getting used to
4. Teva Women’s W Sirra Sport Sandal
Next on the line is the Teva Women’s W Sirra Sport Sandal, and it made it to our list because of the amazing benefits it has to offer. This is also a highly durable and supportive shoe that would serve you for years. It is one of the best sports sandals on the market today and it is made with high-quality materials.
Teva made this running sandal with 100 percent textile and it comes with a synthetic sole. The build-material is highly durable and it is attached to the outsole very well. The upper is made with water-ready polyester webbing that is highly durable and dries pretty quickly when it gets wet.
It also provides a comfortable, secure, and customized fit, thanks to its ladder lock enclosure. With the lightweight EVA-foam cushioning, rest assured your feet will always be comfortable in the sandals. They are ideal for long and short-distance runs, and you can even wear them all day without remembering you are putting on sandals.
The sandal comes with the proprietary Durabrasion Rubber outsole of Teva that provides great stability and traction on different surfaces. It also comes with a midfoot shank to provide torsional rigidity. This women’s sport sandal has 9 different colors that you can choose from, with different sizes ranging from 5 through 11.
Specs
- Material: 100% Textile
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Synthetic sole
- Size: 5 – 11
Pros
- Can be used in any weather
- Rugged Durabrasion rubber sole that provides great traction
- Made with quality and durable materials
- Easy in, easy out
Cons
- The plastic at the toe is a bit painful
5. Skechers Women’s On-The-Go Sport Sandal
Occupying another position on our list is the Skechers Women’s On-The-Go Sport Sandal. Skechers is one of the most reliable shoe brands out there, and this brand does not disappoint, at least most of the time. This is a sports sandal that is ideal for different runners and different running applications. You can use it on any type of terrain and also run in it for a long time without feeling any discomfort or pain.
The sandal is very comfortable and it is ideal for everyday use. Skechers made this sandal with 100 percent synthetic, which is highly durable and lightweight material. It comes with a synthetic sole that is also durable and can withstand everyday use. It provides great traction and you can use it for off-road and on-road runs. The platform measures about ¾ of an inch, and it helps to prevent debris from entering the sandal while you run.
This sandal features a highly responsive, lightweight 5Gen cushioning, which enhances the comfort the sandal provides. For maximum comfort and support, this sandal also comes with the Goga Max High rebound insole of Skechers. To provide you with a secure fit while running, this sports sandal comes with an easily adjustable strap. The soft fabric upper is also there to comfort your feet while running or walking.
Specs
- Material: 100% Synthetic
- Gender: Women
- Sole: Synthetic sole
- Size: 5 – 12
Pros
- Responsive, lightweight cushioning
- Easily adjustable straps
- Provides maximum comfort
- Provides secure and soft feel
Cons
- Not available in half sizes, so you have to size up
6. Xero Shoes Men’s Tarahumara Huarache Style Lightweight Running Sandals
If you are looking for a highly versatile running sandal that you can use on a variety of occasions, then this is one of the best options to consider. The Xero Shoes Men’s Tarahumara Huarache Style Lightweight Running Sandals is one of the best running sandals on the market today and this sandal comes in handy in different scenarios.
It is ideal for running, walking, camping, travel, and more. The sole of this sandal is made with Barefoot-Inspired FeelTrue rubber to enable you to move more naturally. It offers all the benefits, freedom, and fun of walking barefooted, but with added comfort and protection.
This sandal comes with an easily adjustable lacing that provides a secure and comfortable fit and feel. The sandal is highly flexible and you can pack it in your bag easily. It also supports natural posture, thanks to its non-elevated, zero-drop heel.
The grip of the shoe is great; you will not slip when walking on smooth surfaces. The rubber sole of this sandal measures only 5.5mm and it is non-marking. You can get this running sandal in three different colors, with sizes ranging from 5 through 14. The sandal is also wide enough to accommodate people with wider and larger feet.
Specs
- Material: Synthetic
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 5 – 16
Pros
- Super lightweight and comfortable
- Ideal for other outdoors activities
- Enhances natural posture
- Provides all the fun, benefits, and freedom of walking barefoot
Cons
- A bit pricey
7. Chaco Women’s Zcloud 2 Sports Sandal
The Chaco Women’s Zcloud 2 Sports Sandal is another top choice to consider. This sandal is made in the United States and it is a highly durable running sandal. It is a sports sandal that features a great design. This sandal comes with a very comfortable midsole that also provides great support. It is also made with high-quality material – polyester jacquard webbing.
The midsole of the sandal has a dotty texture that provides a comfortable feel. It comes with a durable rubber sole that would help to keep you stable regardless of the terrain you are walking or running on. The polyester upper wraps around the feet, ensuring you remain comfortable and safe while running.
It also comes with highly durable and adjustable high-tensile webbing heel risers. The rubber buckle of the sandal is strong and it provides a secure and customized fit. You can wear this sandal in any weather and it dries up quickly when it gets wet. The sandal is available in 19 different colors, with sizes ranging from 5 through 12.
Specs
- Material: Polyester
- Gender: Women
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 5 – 12
Pros
- Made with quality materials
- Allows for a customized fit
- Comfortable and supportive footbed
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- The strap is too tight
8. Chaco Men’s Z1 Classic Running Sandal
We have another great running sandal from Chaco, and that is the Chaco Men’s Z1 Classic Running Sandal. This running sandal is similar to the previous sandal from Chaco, and they have similar features. You can use this sandal for many outdoor sports and events, thanks to its durable and versatile build.
This sandal is extremely comfortable on the feet, thanks to its LUVSEAT PU midsole. The midsole is designed to provide you with all the support and comfort you need while running. It is well-shaped to allow your feet to sit very well.
This sandal does not only put you in a comfort zone while running, but it also gives you a stylish look while doing that. It is available in more than 25 different colors, Chaco made this sports sandal with 100 percent textile, and the upper provides a secure and snug fit.
The upper features polyester jacquard webbing that helps to keep your feet in place while running or walking. This sandal also comes with antimicrobial agents to help fight odor, which would keep your feet fresh and odor-free.
The outsole of the sandal has 3.5mm deep lug and it is made with non-marking ChacoGrip rubber. It is also designed to provide aggressive grip and stability on different surfaces. The sandal offers a customized fit and you are going to enjoy running in it.
Specs
- Material: 100% Textile
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Rubber sole
- Size: 7 – 15
Pros
- Available in different colors
- Fashionable and highly comfortable
- Leaves your feet odor-free and healthy
- Durable and stable ChacoGrip rubber sole.
Cons
- A bit weighty and narrow
9. Luna OSO Hiking and Running Sandals for Men and Women
The Luna OSO Hiking and Running Sandals also made it to our list because of the amazing features and benefits it offers different runners. This sandal is super comfortable, thanks to its heel cushioning and extremely comfy nylon strapping system.
It also comes with an easy-grip sole that enhances the comfort of the sandal. The sandal conforms to the shape of your feet when walking or running, and this gives you that ultimate feeling of walking barefooted.
This sandal comes with a 13mm Vibram Megagrip outsole that provides excellent traction and stability. It also comes with a Vibram midsole that provides optimal support and comfort. For a secure grip on all surfaces, the sole of this shoe has 4.5mm lugs. The sandal is also super lightweight, as it weighs only 9 ounces.
Luna made this sandal with high-quality materials, ensuring it serves you for a long time. The sandals are highly durable and they are great for long-distance runs. You can also use them for other outdoor activities and it blends with casual outfits too. These sandals are pretty expensive, but it is a great investment.
The sandal also allows for a customized fit, thanks to its single continuous strap made with climbing grade webbing and easy-slide adjustment buckles. You can wear these scandals when walking, running, biking, hiking, climbing, lounging, traveling, camping, and more.
It is highly flexible and lightweight, and you can pack it in your traveling bag with ease. Another fascinating feature of this sandal is that both men and women can wear it; it is a unisex running sandal.
Specs
- Material: Synthetic
- Gender: Male
- Sole: Vibram sole
- Size: N/A
Pros
- Super flexible and lightweight
- Made with durable and high-quality materials
- Easy adjustment buckles for a customized fit
- Ideal for a variety of outdoor activities
Cons
- It is on the higher end of the price spectrum
Vital Factors To Consider In A Running Sandal
There are different types of running sandals out there, and some of them are designed for specific types of runners. However, to pick the right running sandal that would suit your style and need, you need to pay close attention to a couple of things. Many factors come into play when picking a running sandal, here are some of them:
Thin Soles
A thin sole is one of the keys to settling for a great running sandal. You should go for a sandal with a thin sole, ideally 12mm or less. If the sole of the sandal is thicker than 12mm, you will not get that barefoot feeling that you want, and the sandal would feel more like a shoe. Soles with a thickness of 5mm to 8mm are great, as they make you feel as if you are running barefoot.
When it comes to running sandals, the thinner the better, but not too thin though. Thinners soles are also more flexible than thicker soles. However, if you are new to running sandals, we recommend you settle for an option with thicker soles at first until your feet get used to the change.
Once you get used to running shoes with very thin soles, you would not want to go back, because they provide you with all the fun, benefits, and freedom of walking barefoot. Many sandals and shoes come with soles that are filled with additional padding and cushioning, but the best running sandals are not designed that way.
The Weight of the Sandal
The weight of the running sandal also plays a key role in its performance. Many running sandals do not even weigh up to half the weight of running shoes and boots.
It is always best you go for a lightweight running sandal, as this would help you to feel more comfortable and walk more naturally. A heavy and thick sandal would not give you that barefoot feeling when walking or running.
The material used to make the sandal also plays a key role in the weight of the sandal. Running sandals made with leather will naturally be heavy, and you might have a hard time running with it. The best materials for running sandals are synthetic and fabric.
Zero Drop
A zero-drop is one of the major traits of a barefoot sandal. With this design, your feet will move and rest in their natural position. A sandal with zero-drop soles has the same height from the front to the back of the sole. This helps the foot to lay flat from heel to toe, allowing you to walk freely as you are not putting on any shoes.
This is directly opposite what most shoes offer, as most of them have up to 5mm difference from the high heel to the toe box. Zero-drop running sandals offer a whole lot of benefits, including better ankle agility, reduced knee pain, enhanced posture and balance, and significant enhancements in lower body strength.
Final Thoughts
Running sandals come in different styles and sizes for different runners and running applications. Finding the right running sandal that suits your style and running pattern is very important, as there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to running sandals.
Without running sandal reviews, finding the best sports and running sandals should no longer be an issue for you. From the products reviewed in this guide, our top recommendation is the Xero Shoes Z-Trail Lightweight Running Sandal because it is highly comfortable and supportive. It provides an amazing barefoot feeling that allows you to run to your full potential.
