9

/10

Best Travel Sandal

9

/10

Best Travel Sandal

Last Updated:

Jun 30, 2025

Best Travel Sandal – Teva Hurricane XLT2

The Go-Anywhere Sandal: Ready for Water, Trails, and Town

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

☁️

Comfort

9

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

🔄

Versatility

10

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

🛡️

Durability

10

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 Activities

🥾

Light Hiking

🏖️

Beach Trips

🌏

Southeast Asia Travel

Quality & Comfort

Sport sandals aren't always known for 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. Our testing in Thailand involved 8+ mile days, and the padding proved 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, the 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. Our testing confirmed their excellent quick-drying capabilities – after full submersion in the ocean, they were 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, boat decks, 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 durable, 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 the value proposition. Compared to more specialized footwear it can replace (separate water shoes, hiking sandals, etc.), the Hurricane XLT2 often represents a cost saving as well as a space saving. For active travelers heading to warm climates, it's arguably one of the best value footwear investments available.

Our testers agree that it's a capable multi-sport sandal that feels more comfortable in and out of the water than its predecessor.

- Outdoor Gear Lab

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

Versatility

10

Durability

9

Comfort

9

Comfort

9

Durability

8.5

Versatility

10

Traction

8.5

The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal

The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal

Performance Analysis

Pros and Cons

Pros

Comfortable cushioned footbed

Durable quick-drying materials

Exceptionally versatile wet/dry use

100% waterproof knit (no coating)

Cons

x

Straps can sometimes loosen (need re-tightening)

x

Potential strap abrasion very long hikes

x

Footbed can get smelly if not cleaned regularly

x

Limited acceptance conservative areas/temples

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, making it ideal for warm-weather adventures involving water, trails, and town exploration. 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 point, makes it arguably the most practical and versatile sandal for active travelers. While the straps might occasionally need retightening and the style isn't formal, its sheer functionality and durability make it a top pick for warm climates.

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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Top Travel Sandal

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandal

The Go-Anywhere Sandal: Ready for Water, Trails, and Town

9

SCORE

Go-anywhere sandal for warm adventures.

Last Updated:

Jun 30, 2025

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

Strengths

Comfortable cushioned footbed

Durable quick-drying materials

Exceptionally versatile wet/dry use

Good traction light hiking & varied terrain

X

Consider

Straps can sometimes loosen (need re-tightening)

Potential strap abrasion very long hikes

Footbed can get smelly if not cleaned regularly

Limited acceptance conservative areas/temples

View Current Price

Compare

☁️

Comfort

9

🛡️

Durability

8.5

🔄

Versatility

10

⛰️

Traction

8.5

🌧️

Weather

9.2

Performance

☀️

Warm Weather

🌊

Water Activities

🥾

Light Hiking

🏖️

Beach Trips

🌏

Southeast Asia Travel

Perfect For

Quality & Comfort

Sport sandals aren't always known for 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. Our testing in Thailand involved 8+ mile days, and the padding proved 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, the 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. Our testing confirmed their excellent quick-drying capabilities – after full submersion in the ocean, they were 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, boat decks, 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 durable, 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 the value proposition. Compared to more specialized footwear it can replace (separate water shoes, hiking sandals, etc.), the Hurricane XLT2 often represents a cost saving as well as a space saving. For active travelers heading to warm climates, it's arguably one of the best value footwear investments available.

Our testers agree that it's a capable multi-sport sandal that feels more comfortable in and out of the water than its predecessor.

- Outdoor Gear Lab

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, making it ideal for warm-weather adventures involving water, trails, and town exploration. 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 point, makes it arguably the most practical and versatile sandal for active travelers. While the straps might occasionally need retightening and the style isn't formal, its sheer functionality and durability make it a top pick for warm climates.

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

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

About The Author

Shaun

Travel Gear Editor

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