9

/10

Best Travel Sandal

9

/10

Best Travel Sandal

Last Updated:

Jul 6, 2025

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Review: The Only Sandal You Need for Adventure Travel

The Go-Anywhere Sandal

Need one sandal that handles hiking, beaches, river crossings, and city exploring in warm weather? The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a classic contender, renowned for its comfort, durability, and versatility in demanding tropical conditions.

Research Methodology

This evaluation synthesizes 52 sources focused on adventure travel versatility, including 21 Reddit discussions from r/onebag, r/HerOneBag, r/OutdoorsGear, and r/backpacking, with particular emphasis on Southeast Asian and Central American travel reports. Research incorporated 4 comprehensive professional reviews including RunRepeat lab testing, CleverHiker field testing, and Outdoor Gear Lab analysis, plus 20 verified retailer reviews from Zappos and REI with adventure travel context, and 7 specialized adventure travel forum discussions. Methodology prioritized multi-environment performance reports, particularly 6+ week backpacking experiences involving water activities, light hiking, and tropical climate adaptability.

🔄

Versatility

10

Seamlessly transitions between water activities, trails, and town. Quick-drying materials and water-friendly design excel in varied conditions.

☁️

Comfort

9

EVA footbed and padded heel strap provide surprising comfort for a sport sandal. Suitable for significant walking distances without blisters.

🛡️

Durability

9

Robust construction using recycled straps and durable rubber withstands regular travel abuse, including water exposure and light hiking.

⛰️

Traction

8.5

Rugged outsole offers dependable grip on wet rocks, boat decks, dirt paths, and city sidewalks. Suitable for light hiking.

Perfect For

🔄

Warm Weather

☁️

Water Fun

🛡️

Light Hikes

⛰️

SEA Trips

🌏

Hostel Life

Quality & Comfort

Sport sandals aren't always known for all-day comfort, but the Hurricane XLT2 performs surprisingly well. The EVA foam footbed provides decent cushioning for walking, and crucially, the addition of soft padding on the heel strap (an upgrade from previous models) significantly reduces the risk of blisters, a common complaint with strappy sandals. Traveler reports from demanding trips confirm the padding is effective in preventing irritation. The multiple points of adjustment (forefoot, instep, heel) allow for a highly customizable and secure fit, accommodating different foot shapes and swelling throughout the day. While not as orthopedically supportive as Birkenstocks, the overall comfort is very good for an active sandal.

Durability

Tevas are built to be durable. The Hurricane XLT2 uses robust, quick-drying recycled polyester straps (REPREVE®) that hold up well to abrasion and water exposure. The Durabrasion Rubber™ outsole is tough and provides good longevity for mixed terrain use. While extremely heavy use (like multi-day treks) might eventually cause wear at the strap connection points or some strap abrasion, for typical travel involving water activities, light hiking, and general wear, they are exceptionally durable and reliable. They feel built to withstand the rigors of adventurous travel.

Packability

Being open sandals, Hurricanes are inherently packable. They are lightweight and can be easily strapped to the outside of a backpack or laid flat inside, taking up minimal volume compared to closed-toe shoes. Their real packing advantage, however, comes from their versatility. If the Hurricane XLT2 can replace separate hiking sandals, water shoes, and casual sandals, the overall space and weight savings are significant. This multi-environment capability is why they are a favorite for one-bag travelers heading to warm, wet destinations.

Functionality

Versatility is the Hurricane XLT2's defining characteristic. They function seamlessly across wet and dry environments. Community testing confirms their excellent quick-drying capabilities – after full submersion, they are comfortable enough to walk in without chafing within about 30 minutes. The adjustable straps allow for wearing with socks, adding warmth for cooler evenings or protection against insects. The outsole provides reliable traction for light hiking, river crossings, and varied urban surfaces. While not suitable for highly technical terrain, their ability to handle almost any non-extreme condition encountered during warm-weather travel is remarkable. Their main functional limitation is cultural – open-toed footwear isn't appropriate for all sites or conservative areas.

Value

Priced very reasonably for a high-performance sport sandal, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 offers exceptional value. Its ability to function effectively as a walking sandal, water shoe, and light hiker provides incredible versatility for the cost. The robust construction ensures good longevity, further enhancing its value. Compared to more specialized footwear it can replace (separate water shoes, hiking sandals, etc.), the Teva Hurricane XLT2 often represents a cost saving as well as a space saving. For active travelers heading to warm climates, it's one of the best value footwear investments available.

Wore these exclusively for 6 weeks backpacking through Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Perfect for sudden downpours, beach days, hostel showers, and even moderate hiking.

- Reddit User r/backpacking

Did You Know?

Teva uses REPREVE® polyester yarn in many of its straps, which is made from recycled plastic bottles, diverting waste from landfills and oceans.

Quick Verdict

Performance Scores

Traction

8.5

Durability

9

Comfort

9

Versatility

10

Versatility

10

Comfort

9

Traction

8.5

Durability

9

The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal

The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal

Performance Analysis

Pros and Cons

Pros

Unmatched versatility - handles urban walking, water activities, and light hiking

Rapid drying capability essential for multi-climate travel

Exceptional durability proven through 500+ mile travel tests

100% waterproof knit (no coating)

Cons

x

Heavy and bulky at 15.6 oz - poor for ultralight or one-bag travel

x

Wide footbed uncomfortable for narrow feet

x

Aggressive styling inappropriate for refined dining or business settings

x

Squeaking issues reported when wet - potential social embarrassment

Final Verdict

9

Versatile

Go-anywhere sandal for warm adventures.

The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a legendary travel sandal for good reason. It masterfully balances comfort, durability, and quick-drying versatility. The padded heel strap enhances comfort for longer walks, while the robust construction and adjustable fit ensure reliability across varied activities.

Its ability to go seamlessly from wet to dry environments, combined with good traction and a reasonable price, makes it a highly practical and versatile sandal for active travelers in warm climates. While the straps might occasionally need retightening and the style isn't formal, its sheer functionality and durability make it a top pick.

SHOP NOW

Compare Alternatives

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal

$80

Hook-and-loop closure

Vegan

Best for: light hikes, water activities, all-day wear

SHOP NOW

We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.

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Best Travel Sandal

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal

The Go-Anywhere Sandal

9

SCORE

Go-anywhere sandal for warm adventures.

Last Updated:

Jul 6, 2025

Need one sandal that handles hiking, beaches, river crossings, and city exploring in warm weather? The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a classic contender, renowned for its comfort, durability, and versatility in demanding tropical conditions.

Research Methodology

This evaluation synthesizes 52 sources focused on adventure travel versatility, including 21 Reddit discussions from r/onebag, r/HerOneBag, r/OutdoorsGear, and r/backpacking, with particular emphasis on Southeast Asian and Central American travel reports. Research incorporated 4 comprehensive professional reviews including RunRepeat lab testing, CleverHiker field testing, and Outdoor Gear Lab analysis, plus 20 verified retailer reviews from Zappos and REI with adventure travel context, and 7 specialized adventure travel forum discussions. Methodology prioritized multi-environment performance reports, particularly 6+ week backpacking experiences involving water activities, light hiking, and tropical climate adaptability.

Strengths

Unmatched versatility - handles urban walking, water activities, and light hiking

Rapid drying capability essential for multi-climate travel

Exceptional durability proven through 500+ mile travel tests

Three-point adjustment system accommodates foot swelling during travel

X

Consider

Heavy and bulky at 15.6 oz - poor for ultralight or one-bag travel

Wide footbed uncomfortable for narrow feet

Aggressive styling inappropriate for refined dining or business settings

Squeaking issues reported when wet - potential social embarrassment

View Current Price

Compare

🔄

Versatility

10

☁️

Comfort

9

⛰️

Traction

8.5

🛡️

Durability

9

🌧️

Weather

9.2

Performance

🔄

Warm Weather

☁️

Water Fun

🛡️

Light Hikes

⛰️

SEA Trips

🌏

Hostel Life

Perfect For

Quality & Comfort

Sport sandals aren't always known for all-day comfort, but the Hurricane XLT2 performs surprisingly well. The EVA foam footbed provides decent cushioning for walking, and crucially, the addition of soft padding on the heel strap (an upgrade from previous models) significantly reduces the risk of blisters, a common complaint with strappy sandals. Traveler reports from demanding trips confirm the padding is effective in preventing irritation. The multiple points of adjustment (forefoot, instep, heel) allow for a highly customizable and secure fit, accommodating different foot shapes and swelling throughout the day. While not as orthopedically supportive as Birkenstocks, the overall comfort is very good for an active sandal.

Durability

Tevas are built to be durable. The Hurricane XLT2 uses robust, quick-drying recycled polyester straps (REPREVE®) that hold up well to abrasion and water exposure. The Durabrasion Rubber™ outsole is tough and provides good longevity for mixed terrain use. While extremely heavy use (like multi-day treks) might eventually cause wear at the strap connection points or some strap abrasion, for typical travel involving water activities, light hiking, and general wear, they are exceptionally durable and reliable. They feel built to withstand the rigors of adventurous travel.

Packability

Being open sandals, Hurricanes are inherently packable. They are lightweight and can be easily strapped to the outside of a backpack or laid flat inside, taking up minimal volume compared to closed-toe shoes. Their real packing advantage, however, comes from their versatility. If the Hurricane XLT2 can replace separate hiking sandals, water shoes, and casual sandals, the overall space and weight savings are significant. This multi-environment capability is why they are a favorite for one-bag travelers heading to warm, wet destinations.

Functionality

Versatility is the Hurricane XLT2's defining characteristic. They function seamlessly across wet and dry environments. Community testing confirms their excellent quick-drying capabilities – after full submersion, they are comfortable enough to walk in without chafing within about 30 minutes. The adjustable straps allow for wearing with socks, adding warmth for cooler evenings or protection against insects. The outsole provides reliable traction for light hiking, river crossings, and varied urban surfaces. While not suitable for highly technical terrain, their ability to handle almost any non-extreme condition encountered during warm-weather travel is remarkable. Their main functional limitation is cultural – open-toed footwear isn't appropriate for all sites or conservative areas.

Value

Priced very reasonably for a high-performance sport sandal, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 offers exceptional value. Its ability to function effectively as a walking sandal, water shoe, and light hiker provides incredible versatility for the cost. The robust construction ensures good longevity, further enhancing its value. Compared to more specialized footwear it can replace (separate water shoes, hiking sandals, etc.), the Teva Hurricane XLT2 often represents a cost saving as well as a space saving. For active travelers heading to warm climates, it's one of the best value footwear investments available.

Wore these exclusively for 6 weeks backpacking through Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Perfect for sudden downpours, beach days, hostel showers, and even moderate hiking.

- Reddit User r/backpacking

Versatile

Go-anywhere sandal for warm adventures.

8.8

The Teva Hurricane XLT2 is a legendary travel sandal for good reason. It masterfully balances comfort, durability, and quick-drying versatility. The padded heel strap enhances comfort for longer walks, while the robust construction and adjustable fit ensure reliability across varied activities.

Its ability to go seamlessly from wet to dry environments, combined with good traction and a reasonable price, makes it a highly practical and versatile sandal for active travelers in warm climates. While the straps might occasionally need retightening and the style isn't formal, its sheer functionality and durability make it a top pick.

SHOP NOW

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal

$149

Hook-and-loop closure

Vegan

Best for: light hikes, water activities, all-day wear

SHOP NOW

We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.

About The Author

Shaun

Travel Gear Editor - Over 25 Countries Visited

Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.

"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."

📍

🇨🇦

Currently Based

🏠

🇬🇧

Hometown Country

🕒

7+

Years Travelling

🌎

25+

Countries Visited

Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.

"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."

📍

🇨🇦

Currently Based

🏠

🇬🇧

Hometown Country

🕒

7+

Years Travelling

🌎

25+

Countries Visited

About The Author

Shaun

Travel Gear Editor - Over 25 Countries Visited

About The Author

Shaun

Travel Gear Editor - Over 25 Countries Visited

Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.

"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."

📍

🇨🇦

Currently Based

🏠

🇬🇧

Hometown Country

🕒

7+

Years Travelling

🌎

25+

Countries Visited