Having the right shoes for the job makes a big difference. From safety to comfortability and durability, we've rounded up our favorite outdoor footwear for spending time in nature this year.
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Jump ahead: Water Shoes | Hiking | Multipurpose | Sandals | Boots
What to Look for in a Good Pair of Outdoor Shoes
Style, fit and comfort are just the beginning of essential attributes when it comes to finding the right pair of shoes to enjoy the outdoors. Since I'm not a fan of packing 10 different pairs of shoes, I put versatility pretty high up on the list.
Other important factors to consider include:
Material (water-resistance or moisture-wicking abilities)
Quality (material durability, construction, brand reputation, and warranty)
Safety (traction, sole grip and cushion, and toe protection)
Best Water Shoes for a Day at the Lake
There is A LOT of rock in the Ozarks. Most of our lakes, rivers, and streams are relatively clear thanks to the hard rock bottoms that keep river silt from clouding the water.
This also means that there area lot of smooth (but still uncomfortable to walk on) rocks lining the bottom surfaces of creeks and lakes so you DO WANT to wear a pair of rubber-soled shoes for safety and comfortability.
Body Glove Water Shoes
Body Glove water shoes are designed for water sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers who require footwear that combines protection, comfort, and performance in wet conditions.
Below, we outline the general pros and cons based on common features and feedback associated with Body Glove water shoes.
Generally, these shoes are good for wide feet, providing stretch and comfort with a wide-based, durable rubber sole.
What we love about these water shoes:
Water-friendly Design
Lightweight & Flexible
Treaded Sole for Traction
Full Foot Coverage for Protection
Cushioned Insoles & Breathable Construction for Comfortability
What to consider before buying:
Sizing and Fit can be Challenging due to the Shaped-foot Design
Unique Style & Aesthetic (May not be suitable for casual wear)
Higher Price Reflective of Brand Reputation & Quality
Best Shoes for Active, Land-Based Activities
Hiking, running on the trails, and mountain biking all require a certain level of fitness but can both be a good way to shake up regular workout routines.
Since nature trails tend to include a variety of dry and wet conditions, terrain grades, and surfaces, the right shoes that provide traction and protection without being too heavy and cumbersome will make all the difference.
Hoka Challenger 7 All-Terrain Running Shoes
These shoes are lightweight without compromising on quality. They offer comfort and versatility that pair well with road and trail surfaces. If you like other styles by HOKA like the Speedgoat or Altra Olympus, you'll love these!
What we adore about these all-terrain running shoes:
Added cushioning in the heel and midsole
Good balance between comfort and grip
Durable construction often shows no signs of breaking down with mileage
What to know before you buy these shoes:
HOKA shoes tend to have a narrow fit, making it difficult for runners with wider feet to experience the same level of comfort
Despite added cushioning, tackling exceptionally rocky or rooty terrain may still be challenging
Best Shoes for Multipurpose Use
So, picking out just one pair of shoes often feels like an impossible task...especially for outdoor activities. I mean, is it better to have all-day comfort? Do I want something that can get wet? Do I want my feet to get wet? And dry easily? There are soooo many questions!!!
Nonetheless, my favorite go-to is a durable outdoor sandal.
Keen Closed-Toe Sandals for the Whole Family
If you're anything like me, you embrace the natural comfort of bare feet. I mean, who has time for socks when the temps reach triple-digit heat? I love, love, love these sanals for their barefoot comfort, closed-toe protection, and moisture-wicking capabilities!
What we love about Keen sandals:
Comfortable off-the-rack fit
Quick-Dry, Moisture-wicking material means that you can get them wet and dry them out without rubbing blisters on your feet
Come in a large variety of colors and patterns
What to consider:
Thes sandals run a little on the narrow size and Keen doesn't offer wide widths
There is no zipper or buckle so getting them on (at least the first few times) can be tricky
Best Shoes for Serious Expeditions
Any serious hiker who puts in the miles knows the value of a good, sturdy pair of boots that won't leave you miles-deep into the forest with a twisted ankle! When high-top comfort is what you need, we have a boot for that! (See what I did there?? 😎)
Salomon X Ultra 4 Hiking Shoes
Founded in 1947, Salomon has been making innovative outdoor gear for decades. This latest innovation, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Hiking Shoe is no exception! It combines comfort and durability with waterproofing, protection, and style.
What we love about this hiking boot:
Designed with the agility of a running a shoe and the grip of a serious hiking boot
Waterproof synthetic leather upper with polyurethane coating to keep feet warm and dry
Designed to protect your feet without being to heavy or restricting movement
What to consider:
These are made from a synthetic material and may be less durable than genuine leather.
Roomy toebox may leave too much room for narrow feet, causing rubbing or a fatigue from a lack of support
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Best Shoes and Outdoor Footwear Depends on the Activity
If I'm heading outdoors, I always grab two pairs of shoes...my Keen closed-toe sandals and something lightweight that covers the whole foot with a thick sole and water-friendly features.