As the sun graces us with its radiant warmth, it’s time to shed those heavy shoes and embrace the freedom of sandals.
But not just any sandals – we’re talking about Teva, the iconic brand that has redefined what it means to combine comfort and style in the world of outdoor footwear.
Whether you’re gearing up for a rugged hike, a leisurely stroll, or a day at the beach, Teva sandals have you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the best Teva sandals for your summer escapades.
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Best Teva Sandals
From innovative designs to unparalleled durability, these sandals are poised to revolutionize your outdoor experiences.
So, if you’re ready to discover the perfect blend of fashion and function, join us as we explore three awesome Tevas that will have you stepping into a season of adventure with confidence and flair.
Teva Hurricane XLT 2
When it comes to outdoor adventure footwear, Teva has long been a trusted name, and their Hurricane XLT 2 sandal continues to live up to the brand’s reputation for quality, comfort, and versatility.
This versatile sandal is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and casual wearers alike, offering a range of features that make it a standout choice for various activities.
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Cushioning
The Teva Hurricane XLT 2 stands out for its rather generous amount of cushioning, providing a level of comfort that is truly remarkable in the world of outdoor sandals.
Measuring its stack height with a caliper, we discovered that the sandal boasts a substantial 30.9 mm thickness in the heel and 19.0 mm in the forefoot, a dimension that’s notably equivalent to the stack height of the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX shoe.
To put this into perspective, the Teva Hurricane XLT 2 is several times more cushioned than the popular Teva Original Universal (below), making it an exceptional choice for those who prioritize plush underfoot support during their outdoor adventures.
This ample cushioning not only enhances comfort but also reduces the impact on your feet.
But if you think that’s a lot of cushioning for a sandal, you should see the Hurricane XLT 2 Ampsole. The amount of foam must have been doubled for that one!
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Softness
When tested, the Teva Hurricane XLT 2’s foam exhibited a remarkable 21.6 HA reading, making it 63% softer than the Teva Original Universal sandal.
This significant softness translates to a pleasantly cushy and even slightly springy sensation when wearing the Hurricane XLT 2.
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Durability
Teva is known for producing durable outdoor footwear, and the Hurricane XLT 2 is no exception. Its construction includes high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of various outdoor terrains.
The XLT is built to last, and its robust design ensures it can take on everything from rocky trails to wet conditions without showing significant signs of wear and tear.
The durometer reading of 84.5 HC for the Teva Hurricane XLT 2 closely matches the average hardness of other tested hiking sandals, indicating it offers a typical level of durability.
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Comfort
The Hurricane features a cushioned EVA midsole that provides excellent shock absorption, reducing strain on your feet during long hikes or walks.
The padded heel strap also prevents chafing and discomfort, which can be common issues with outdoor sandals, and the adjustable 8.2mm thick straps offer a secure and customized fit.
The sandal’s footbed is contoured for added comfort, cradling your feet and preventing fatigue, even during extended wear.
It’s particularly praiseworthy because it achieves this without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to the sandal. This thoughtful design consideration makes the Teva Hurricane a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy their adventures without the discomfort that can come from poorly padded or overly bulky straps.
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Versatility
One of the key selling points of the Hurricane XLT 2 is its versatility. The Hurricane is designed to handle a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and water sports to casual strolls.
The rugged outsole with 3.5mm lugs offers reliable traction on various terrains, making it suitable for both wet and dry conditions. It’s equally at home in the wilderness as it is on urban adventures, making it a truly versatile choice.
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Water-Friendly Design
The Hurricane’s Quick-dry webbing upper allows you to transition seamlessly from land to water, ensuring your feet stay comfortable even after getting wet.
The sandal’s open design and water-resistant materials make it perfect for kayaking, river walks, or simply enjoying a day at the beach.
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Style
Beyond its functionality, the Hurricane XLT 2 boasts a stylish design that appeals to a wide range of wearers. The sandal is available in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to express your personal style.
Its sleek and timeless aesthetic means you can confidently wear it in both outdoor and casual settings.
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Affordability
While the Teva Hurricane XLT 2 offers top-notch quality and performance, it remains relatively affordable compared to some high-end outdoor footwear brands. Its affordability makes it accessible to a broader range of consumers without sacrificing on key features.
Pros:
- Exceptional Comfort
The Teva Hurricane XLT 2 is renowned for its outstanding comfort, thanks to its generous cushioning, supportive footbed, and well-padded straps, providing a plush and irritation-free experience.
- Versatile Design
With its durable construction and water-friendly materials, it’s suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports.
- Superior Durability
The sandal’s robust build and materials make it highly durable, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of various terrains and activities.
- Customizable Fit
The adjustable straps allow for a personalized fit, accommodating various foot shapes and sizes.
- Stylish Options
The Teva Hurricane XLT 2 is available in various colors and patterns, allowing wearers to express their personal style.
Cons:
- Limited Reflective Elements
While this sandal offers many features, it lacks reflective elements that could enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
- Heavy
The additional cushioning and build may make it feel a bit heavier.
- Bulky
Its rugged design might not be the most stylish choice for city wear.
| Where to buy | ||
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Teva | Nordstrom |
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Teva Universal Original
The Teva Original Universal is an iconic outdoor sandal known for its classic design and simplicity. With a history dating back to the 1980s, this sandal has stood the test of time, offering wearers a blend of affordability, versatility, and comfort.
Cushioning
The Teva Original Universal, known for its minimalist and lightweight design, features a more minimal and grounded type of sandal, with a heel height of 15.9 mm and a forefoot height of 13.8 mm.
Using a caliper to measure these dimensions, it becomes evident that the sandal emphasizes a simple and straightforward design.
While it may lack the generous cushioning found in some other Teva models like the Hurricane XLT 2, we found that there is still enough cushioning and support in the sole to keep you comfortable during shorter distances of up to 6 miles.
This underfoot support may be adequate for casual wear and more relaxed outdoor activities but may not be the ideal choice for extended or rugged adventures where enhanced cushioning is preferred.
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Softness
The Teva Original Universal minimalist design extends to the level of softness in its construction. The Original feels more on the firm side, as confirmed by our durometer measurement which gave a reading of 35.1 HA, approximately 10% firmer than the average.
This firmness is primarily due to the cushioning layer, which is intentionally designed to be firm to provide protection for the foot against rocks and debris.
The sandal’s emphasis on durability and foot safety may mean it sacrifices some of the plush softness found in more cushioned models.
However, this firmer feel can be beneficial for those who prioritize ruggedness and protection during their outdoor activities, appreciating the trade-off between softness and durability.
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Durability
The outsole durability of the Teva Original Universal is a notable strength for this classic outdoor sandal. Its outsole is designed to withstand the challenges of various terrains and outdoor activities.
Even in its price range and lightweight build, the Original Universal demonstrates promising durability. This is evident in our measurement of the outsole’s hardness at 84.8 HC, which is comparable to some premium hiking sandals.
This level of hardness is a key indicator of the sandal’s ability to endure the wear and tear associated with outdoor use. As a result, the Teva Original Universal is expected to have a reasonable shelf life.
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Comfort
While the Teva Original Universal is celebrated for its iconic design and durability, it may not be the first choice for those seeking an abundance of cushioned comfort.
The cushioning provided, while adequate for casual wear and shorter walks, may fall short in comparison to some of the more plush and cushioned models offered by Teva.
We measured the upper strap thickness at 5.3 mm, which is enough material to prevent the strap from digging into the instep. Even though there is no strap padding in this Teva model, it still feels plush all around.
This is due to the soft nature of the straps used in the Original Universal.
Versatility
The Original’s simple yet robust design allows it to transition seamlessly from outdoor adventures to everyday use. Whether you’re heading out for a light hike, a day at the beach, or simply running errands in town, the Teva Original Universal is well-suited to a wide range of settings and activities.
Its water-friendly materials ensure it can handle aquatic environments, making it a great option for water-based adventures. This versatility is further enhanced by the variety of colors and patterns available, allowing wearers to express their personal style.
Talking about style…
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Style
The Teva Original Universal exudes a classic and timeless style that has made it an enduring icon in the world of outdoor sandals. Its design is straightforward and unpretentious, emphasizing functionality and simplicity.
This classic aesthetic appeals to a wide range of wearers who appreciate a versatile, no-nonsense look. The sandal’s clean lines, minimalist silhouette, and availability in various colors and patterns allow wearers to choose a style that complements their personal preferences.
While it may not be the most fashion-forward or flashy option on the market, the Teva Original Universal’s style is rooted in practicality and a laid-back, outdoor-inspired charm.
Affordability
The Teva Original Universal is known for providing reliable quality at a budget-friendly price point. This accessibility is one of the key factors contributing to its enduring popularity.
Its affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers, from outdoor enthusiasts to budget-conscious shoppers, providing an excellent balance between cost and performance.
Pros:
- Timeless Design
The Teva Original Universal boasts a classic and timeless design that appeals to a broad range of wearers.
- Affordability
It offers a budget-friendly option, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
- Decent Durability
The sandal provides reasonable durability for light outdoor activities.
- Simplicity and Lightweight
Its minimalist and featherweight design enhances comfort for everyday wear.
- Water-Friendly
The sandal’s materials are suitable for water-based activities, adding to its versatility.
- Over 20 colorways and designs
Cons:
- Limited Cushioning
The Teva Original Universal lacks the generous cushioning found in some other Teva models, which may lead to less comfort during extended wear.
- Texture is Felt Underfoot
The sandal’s minimalist design may result in the texture being felt underfoot, which can be less comfortable for some wearers.
- Basic Straps
The straps, while functional, may not offer the same level of adjustability and padding as more advanced models.
- Back Strap is Not Adjustable
The back strap on the Teva Original Universal is not adjustable, which may affect the fit for some users.
- Limited Performance
It might not excel in rugged outdoor environments, limiting its use for more challenging activities.
- Thinner Sole
The thinner sole may not provide the same level of support and shock absorption as thicker-soled models.
| Where to buy | ||
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Teva | REI |
Teva Hurricane Drift
The Drift is a versatile and water-friendly sandal designed to provide comfort and functionality for various outdoor and water-based activities.
Known for its highly functional design, this sandal is an ideal companion for those seeking a lightweight and agile footwear option that can tackle wet and dry terrains alike.
With a focus on quick-drying materials and a comfortable fit, the Teva Hurricane Drift is a popular choice for individuals who enjoy adventures in and around the water or simply value a reliable, all-terrain sandal.
Cushioning
The Teva Hurricane Drift is engineered to offer a comfortable and cushioned experience for wearers. With a generously padded footbed and a responsive midsole, this sandal ensures a plush and cushioned feel that significantly reduces the impact on your feet.
The cushioning provides a remarkable balance between support and comfort, making it ideal for long walks, water-based activities, or any adventure that demands a soft and shock-absorbing underfoot experience.
Durability
The Teva Hurricane Drift is designed with durability in mind, featuring materials and construction that can withstand the challenges of outdoor and water-related activities. The straps and outsole are crafted from sturdy materials, making the Drift resistant to abrasion and wear.
While it may not be as rugged as some heavy-duty outdoor footwear, the Teva Hurricane Drift is certainly capable of enduring its intended usage scenarios. The quick-drying nature of its components further contributes to its longevity, as it can handle exposure to water without suffering from prolonged damage.
Comfort
The Drift features a well-padded footbed and a supportive midsole, ensuring a plush and cushioned feel that’s gentle on your feet. Its comfortable fit and adjustable straps make it easy to find the right fit, enhancing the overall comfort level.
The materials used in the Teva Hurricane Drift are designed to reduce irritation and ensure a pleasant experience, even during extended wear.
Versatility
The design combines water-friendly materials and quick-drying properties, allowing the Drift to excel in aquatic settings, from kayaking and beach outings to river adventures.
However, its versatility extends beyond water-based activities. This sandal is equally at home on dry land, suitable for hiking, casual walks, and various outdoor excursions.
Style
The Hurricane Drift offers a style that leans towards a casual and sporty aesthetic, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of wearers. Its design is characterized by simplicity and functionality, featuring adjustable straps and a minimalist silhouette that suits various outdoor and casual settings.
While it may not be the most fashion-forward or trendy option, its straightforward look and practical design have earned it a dedicated following among those who prioritize comfort and performance over flashy aesthetics.
Affordability
The Teva Hurricane Drift is appreciated for its budget-friendly price point, offering a reliable and versatile outdoor sandal without the need for a substantial financial investment.
Pros:
- Water-Friendly Design
The Teva Hurricane Drift is perfect for water-based activities, as it dries quickly and offers excellent drainage.
- Comfortable Fit
With a well-padded footbed and supportive midsole, this sandal ensures a cozy and cushioned experience.
- Versatile Performance
It transitions seamlessly from water to land, making it suitable for various outdoor activities, including hiking, beach outings, and casual walks.
- Affordability
The Teva Hurricane Drift is budget-friendly, offering a cost-effective option for those seeking reliable outdoor footwear.
- Durable Construction
While not ultra-rugged, it’s built to withstand outdoor and water environments, ensuring reasonable longevity.
Cons:
- Minimalist Aesthetic
The simple and practical design may not appeal to those seeking a more stylish or fashion-forward sandal.
- Lightweight Build
It may not provide the same level of support as more robust outdoor footwear, which could be a drawback for some.
- Limited Cushioning
The cushioning, while comfortable, may not be as plush as some other models, potentially affecting long-distance comfort.
- Not Suitable for Heavy-Duty Terrain
It may not be the ideal choice for extremely rugged or challenging outdoor conditions, given its more moderate durability.
- Narrow Focus
The Teva Hurricane Drift is primarily designed for water-related activities, so it might not be the best fit for those seeking a versatile, all-terrain sandal for extensive use on land.
| Where to buy | ||
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Teva | REI |
How To Make Your Tevas Odor Free
Making your Tevas odor-free is essential to maintain a pleasant and hygienic outdoor footwear experience.
Here are some effective tips to help you keep your Tevas smelling fresh:
- Regular Cleaning
Start by cleaning your Tevas after every use. Rinse them thoroughly with clean water to remove any dirt, sweat, or debris. Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub away any stubborn stains.
- Proper Drying
After each use or cleaning, ensure your Tevas are completely dry before storing them. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight, as this can cause the materials to degrade. Instead, let them air dry in a well-ventilated area.
- Alternate Footwear
Give your Tevas a break. Wearing the same pair of shoes every day can lead to odor buildup. Alternate between different pairs of footwear to allow each to air out and dry completely.
- Insoles and Inserts
Consider using odor-absorbing insoles or inserts in your Tevas. These can help absorb moisture and reduce the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
- Anti-Odor Sprays
There are anti-odor sprays available that can help keep your Tevas smelling fresh. Spray the insoles and straps lightly, following the product’s instructions.
- Store Properly
When you’re not using your Tevas, store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in a confined, damp area, which can contribute to odor development.
- Use Socks
Consider wearing moisture-wicking socks with your Tevas. Socks can help absorb sweat and reduce the odor inside your sandals.
- Vinegar Soak
If your Tevas are particularly odorous, you can try a vinegar soak. Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water, and soak your Tevas for about 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry.
- Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda inside your Tevas and let it sit overnight. Shake out the excess powder the next day, and your sandals should smell fresher.
- Freezing
Seal your Tevas in a plastic bag and place them in the freezer overnight. Extreme cold can kill odor-causing bacteria. Just be sure the sandals are completely dry before doing this.
By following these tips, you can enjoy odor-free Tevas and a more comfortable outdoor footwear experience. Regular maintenance and proper care will help keep your Tevas fresh and ready for your next adventure.
How To Clean Your Tevas
Cleaning your Teva sandals is a straightforward process, and here are the key steps to clean odors and dirt from your Teva sandals:
What NOT to Do:
Avoid using a washing machine, as the machine’s movements can damage the sandals and are less precise.
Different parts of your sandals may require distinct cleaning methods. Be careful with leather and nubuck parts.
After cleaning, avoid drying your sandals in direct sunlight to prevent shrinkage. Opt for air drying indoors or in a shaded outdoor area.
What You’ll Need:
- Earth-friendly, biodegradable soap or mild soap
- Water
- Soft-bristled toothbrush or soft brush
- Bucket
- Nubuck leather cleaner (if necessary, ensure it’s suitable for your sandal’s leather)
Deep Cleaning Process:
- Wash in Sink or Bucket
Apply lukewarm soapy water to the sandals and dip a soft brush in water for scrubbing.
- Clean Thoroughly
Wash both the top and bottom of the sandals, ensuring all nooks and crannies are cleaned.
- Loosen Dirt
Gently bend the sandals from heel to toe under water pressure to loosen dried dirt.
- Rinse and Dry
Rinse the sandals thoroughly and dry the straps with a towel.
- Air Dry
Allow the sandals to air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for an extended period to prevent potential shrinkage.
Disinfecting:
There’s typically no need to disinfect your Teva sandals as they are treated with an antimicrobial solution to reduce odor and prevent bacteria growth. Avoid using alcohol or chlorine-based disinfectants as they can interfere with the antimicrobial treatment and cause color fading.
Cleaning your Teva sandals not only keeps them fresh but also prolongs their life, allowing you to enjoy many more seasons of outdoor adventures.
Wrap-up
All in all, the Teva Hurricane XLT 2 distinguishes itself with exceptional cushioning, versatility, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for various activities and water-based adventures.
The Teva Original Universal, with its minimalist design and lower cushioning, offers a more grounded feel suitable for shorter distances. It presents a budget-friendly option with reasonable outsole durability but may not excel in rugged conditions.
The Teva Hurricane Drift, designed for water-based activities, combines versatility and affordability with a focus on durability. It’s easy to maintain, ensuring a fresh and comfortable experience on numerous outdoor outings.
I hope our review of the best Keen sandals has helped make an informed decision. See you in the next one 🙂
