Best Summer Sandals: Birkenstock vs. Chaco vs. Teva and More
Quick answer: For everyday comfort around town, Birkenstocks are hard to beat once the cork footbed molds to your feet, but they don't like water. For hiking, rivers and water sports, pick a strap sandal like Chaco or Bedrock for durability and grip. Teva offers lighter, stylish options for casual use, and Crocs are the cheap, floating backup pair.
Sandals are the quintessential summer footwear, good for everything from strolls around town to rugged days outside. Here are the pros and cons of the most popular sandal brands to help you find your ideal pair.
Birkenstock: the classic comfort sandal
Birkenstocks are often the first brand that comes to mind. Made from leather and cork, they need a break-in period, but once the footbed molds to your feet they offer years of comfort.
- Pros: very comfortable once broken in; durable leather and cork construction; available in two-strap, toe-loop and clog styles.
- Cons: not water resistant; prone to odor when they get wet.
- Best for: everyday wear around town.
Chaco: the outdoor workhorse
Chacos are known for durability and versatility, which makes them a favorite for water sports and hiking. A robust sole and adjustable straps give a secure fit, with or without a toe loop.
- Pros: handles water well; durable and versatile; straps can be replaced and the sandals can be resoled.
- Cons: the look isn't for everyone.
- Best for: hiking, rivers and water sports.
Crocs: tough and affordable
Crocs aren't the most stylish option, but they're nearly indestructible, inexpensive and practical. They float and weigh very little, so they're easy to clip to a pack.
- Pros: extremely durable; affordable; they float.
- Cons: less stylish; can be slippery on slick surfaces.
- Best for: casual use, water days and a backup camp shoe.
Bedrock: minimal, supportive and versatile
Bedrock Sandals, from a small company in Missoula, Montana, sit in the same category as Chacos and Tevas, with strong support and a distinctive style aimed at outdoor folks.
- Pros: strong support; unique style; great for outdoor activities.
- Cons: a lesser-known brand, so fewer people have tried them.
- Best for: outdoor adventures and everyday wear.
Teva: stylish and affordable
Teva offers a rugged-yet-stylish look with lots of designs and colors. Their hook-and-loop closures set them apart from Chacos, but the soles are less robust, so they're better for easy terrain.
- Pros: stylish designs; affordable; comfortable flip-flop options.
- Cons: less durable soles; limited grip on rough terrain.
- Best for: casual wear and light outdoor use.
How to choose
- Mostly town and travel: Birkenstock or Teva.
- Trails, rivers and paddling: Chaco or Bedrock.
- Camp shoe or backup pair: Crocs.
Sandals sell fast in summer, so stock changes often. Stop by our Grand Avenue store in Portland's Central Eastside to try on pairs and get advice from our footwear staff.
When you need a closed-toe shoe
For rocky trails, long miles or cooler days, pair your sandals with a light trail shoe.
- Oboz Sawtooth X Low B-Dry (Women's) Waterproof low hiker
- Rossignol Venosk (Men's) Light trail runner
- Rossignol Venosk (Women's) Light trail runner
- Topo Pursuit 3 (Men's) Roomy toe box for long days
Summer sandal FAQ
Are Birkenstocks good for hiking or water?
Not really. They shine for everyday wear, but the leather and cork don't handle water well and can develop odor when wet. Choose a strap sandal like Chaco or Bedrock for trails and rivers.
What is the difference between Chaco and Teva?
Chacos use adjustable straps with a buckle and a more robust sole that can be resoled. Tevas typically use hook-and-loop closures and lighter soles, making them better suited to casual wear and easy terrain.
Do Birkenstocks need to be broken in?
Yes. The cork footbed takes some time to mold to your feet, but once it does the fit is very comfortable and long lasting.
What sandal is best as a camp shoe?
Crocs are a popular choice because they are cheap, durable, lightweight and float, so they work around camp and on the water.