Running sandals are an ancient and well-proven solution for improving your running form, the way you move, and the type of impact your feet have on the ground. Running sandals, also called barefoot shoes, give you the freedom and primal feeling with the wind between your toes that no other running sandals can give.
Can You Actually Run In Sandals?
Running sandals have been around since ancient times and are much more minimalistic than closed-style running shoes. Running sandals are also known as minimalist running shoes.
A running sandal is simply an open-air shoe, allowing air to flow through the shoe and your feet, giving you a barefoot-like experience while still offering some protection.
A running sandal usually consists of a sole and upper that’s held together by either straps or laces. Some running sandals have the footbed attached to the sole and others have removable footbeds for easy cleaning.
It’s important to note that not all running sandals are created equal. Some are more suitable for hiking, casual walking, or water sports, whereas others are specifically designed for running.
Running Sandals and How They Help
Running with sandals is becoming more popular, and there are many reasons why you might want to try it. Sandals allow your feet to move more freely than traditional running shoes, which can result in better performance. They also keep your feet cool while you’re running by allowing air to flow between your toes. This is important because it helps prevent overheating and blisters.
Benefits of Running Sandals:
Cooling: Running shoes tend to trap heat on the bottom of your foot and can make your feet hot as a result. Sandals provide more airflow around the foot than regular running shoes do.
Protective: Running sandals offer protection from rocks and other debris on the road without the bulkiness or weight of traditional running shoes.
More Freedom: Because sandals don’t have a back, they allow for greater freedom of movement than most shoes do. Plus, they won’t rub against your heel when walking or running (a common problem with some sneakers).
Outdoors: The open-toed design allows for better airflow, which makes them perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or camping where you might encounter water or mud puddles along the way.
Wet Conditions: When it’s raining, you might not want to run in bare feet. But traditional running shoes will get wet and heavy, which is not only uncomfortable but can also pose health risks. Running sandals dry quickly, so they’re ideal for wet conditions.
Features of a Good Sandal for Running
Choosing the best running sandals is not an easy task as there are many factors to consider. However, whether you choose a running-specific model or try out a pair of hiking sandals designed for multiple uses, you will want to look for certain features that make the footwear suitable for running. Read on to find the ideal sandal for your next trail run.
Uppers
The upper is the part of a shoe that covers your foot. In trail sandals, this includes the straps and laces that keep the foot in place. A good running sandal must have a secure fit.
Midsole
The midsole is most often made from EVA foam, which provides cushioning and shock absorption. Some models use thicker, softer foam for more cushioned landings, while others use thinner, firmer foam for a more responsive ride.
Outsole
The outsole is what contacts the ground and directly affects traction on different terrain. Outsole treads are usually made from durable rubber to provide grip on rocks, slippery slopes and other uneven surfaces. Running sandals with aggressive outsoles can be worn on trails with loose or rugged terrain.
Footbed
The footbed is where you put your feet when you’re not running. A good running sandal should have an anatomically shaped footbed that cradles the arch of your foot to prevent it from collapsing inward as you land and push off with each step. Some manufacturers use a contoured shape to improve comfort and support by matching the natural shape of your feet. Others use a flat shape so you can customize how much arch support your feet need.
Style
Another characteristic of good running sandals is style. Sandals for running are generally worn for long distances, so comfort is essential. It may be easier for some runners to find comfortable sandals that can also match their desired style than others, but in general, shoes that fit well and provide adequate support are less likely to cause pain or discomfort during use than other options.
Reviews: The Best Sandals for Running
In this post, I will review the best sandals for running. It can be a bit tricky to find the ideal sandal because every runner is different. We will look at what to consider when buying them, how to care for them and also list several top brands.
Sandals for Running
These sandals are a top design manufactured by Chaco and have running-specific features. They have soft, quick-drying textile uppers that are adjustable and comfortable, as well as having a LUVSEAT PU midsole that helps absorb shocks and provide cushioning in the heel area. The EcoTread outsole has been made from durable and recycled rubber for optimal grip and traction on any surface, with a 3mm lug depth for even better grip on outdoor surfaces. The upper webbing is adjustable, so you can create the perfect fit for you.
Sandal for Running with Knee Pain
The Skechers on Go 600 provides lightweight, flexible cushioning and a sleek design for your run. These sandals provide you with breathable and quick-drying textile uppers straps with comfortable athletic construction. Specs include an open-toe design, adjustable straps for a customizable fit, cushioned lightweight 5GEN and Gioga Max High rebound insole and midsole, durable rubber outsole with lug patterns and high abrasion resistance to offer great grip and traction. choose from many color options in this model for men and women.
Sandal for Running
The Teva Original sandal is built with a professionally-designed suspension system that utilizes surfaces found in nature’s terrain to create a ruggedly reliable, lightweight sandal made to perform under the most intense conditions. You will enjoy comfort with this ergonomically-shaped footbed that is cushioned with EVA and has a Micro Ban Zinc-based antibacterial treatment to resist odors. The most rugged outdoor terrain couldn’t stop you from enjoying your favorite outdoor activities, thanks to the Teva Original sandals abrasion-resistant outsole that’s made of highly Durabrasion Rubber.
Sandal for Running
The Newport H2 made by Keen is an excellent choice in outdoor and trail running sandals. The water-friendly sandal with a textile Polyester upper has a Fisherman’s style with a bungee adjustable lace-up design. It features a Metatomical contoured comfort footbed and Molded EVA cushioned midsole for shock absorbency. The durable rubber outsole that is non-marking, and has lugs for optimal grip, will take you where your feet need to go. Available in many colors, the Newport H2 is sure to be the perfect fit for your active lifestyle.
Minimalist Trail Running Sandal
The Z-Trek is a rugged and lightweight sandal designed by runners, for runners. This trail running sandal is the perfect companion for hiking and running on uneven surfaces, offering you superior grip and traction on the go. This durable and lightweight sandal features a minimalist design, with a zero heel drop that promotes natural movement, while the lightweight materials make it great for packing in a backpack or suitcase.
Sports Sandal for Running
Skechers is ready to take you on a running adventure with the Upwell and Cali, an active sandal for an active lifestyle. The all-over synthetic and jersey nylon upper material provides a good fit, keeping your feet securely in place, while the cushioning Yoga Foam footbed makes sure your feet will feel comfortable all day long. Perfect for a quick run or walk by the beach or around the neighborhood, this sandal has a durable rubber outsole that provides excellent traction and allows a natural range of motion.
Running Fisherman’s Sandals
A highly-protective sandal, the Dream pairs Portable Outdoor Fisherman’s Sandals are designed for cross-terrain running, using an elastic strap that helps keep your feet protected from impact and cuts. The textile upper is fully adjustable and it also features a rubber outsole that provides excellent traction control on slippery surfaces. The high-quality sole affords the required cushioning effect to make them comfortable for running over long distances, even with the more uneven terrain of cross country / off-road running conditions.
Outdoor Running Sandals
Crocs Swiftwater is an outdoor sandal ideal for running, traveling, and walking. They are lightweight and have a cushioned sole with good arch support. The uppers are made of mesh and textile that drain water quickly and dry out fast. There is a Velcro closure for a more adjustable fit. This sandal has durable outsoles that provide excellent traction on wet surfaces.
Running Sandals
If you’ve been looking for a pair of sandals that can keep up with your active lifestyle and take you from the trail to the beach then look no further than Chaco. The Chaco Z1 is a sporty sandal that works just as well on dry land as it does in shallow water. Its uppers are a quick-drying textile material and fully adjustable, so comfort is not an issue.
Minimalist Running Sandals
The Genesis is the ultralight, barefoot-style running sandal. The soft textile uppers are fully adjustable. The sole is flexible for a natural feel. The footbed provides light contour for support and the outsole is made of a high traction rubber. From Zero Sandals, the Genesis is a minimalist barefoot design running sandal. The uppers are soft textile material and fully adjustable. There are a few color options available from which you can choose. The sole is flexible and light for a barefoot feel. The footbed has slight contours for light support. The outsole is a durable, high traction rubber.
