Choosing the right footwear is one of the most important decisions you’ll make before hitting the trails. Whether you're considering the freedom of hiking in sandals, the support of hiking shoes Australia, or looking for the best fit for ladies hiking shoes and mens hiking shoes, this guide will help you navigate your options. From rocky paths to river crossings, we'll cover what you need to know to pick the perfect pair for your next adventure.

Bedrock's range of Hiking Sandals vs Hiking Shoes

Why wear hiking sandals?

Hiking in sandals can be a great alternative to traditional footwear, especially in warm climates or on trails that involve water crossings. 

Sandals offer excellent breathability and dry quickly, making them a practical choice for hikers who want to stay cool and comfortable on the trail.

For those comparing options, it’s worth noting that hiking shoes high tec models often offer advanced support and protection for more demanding trails, whereas hiking shoes ladies are designed specifically with women’s foot shapes and comfort in mind.

Are there any hiking sandals that are light and waterproof?

There sure are!

Bedrock Sandals have carved a niche in Australia for outdoor enthusiasts seeking minimalist yet durable footwear. 

Available through select retailers including PAST Outdoors, the Bedrock Sandals Australia range includes the Cairn Evo, Cairn Evo Pro, and Cairn Evo 3D Pro—each featuring Vibram® outsoles and adjustable strap systems for optimal performance on diverse terrains.

For those preferring more coverage, the Bedrock Mountain Clogs offer a closed-toe design with options in synthetic suede or nubuck leather, combining comfort with rugged capability.

Whether you're hiking, biking, or exploring urban landscapes, Bedrock Sandals provide a versatile solution for adventurers in Australia.

Should I wear hiking shoes or boots instead?

Wearing hiking shoes is a wise choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfort, support, and protection on the trails.

Unlike casual footwear, hiking shoes are specifically designed to handle the diverse challenges of hiking terrain, offering features such as durable soles, reinforced toe caps, and supportive cushioning.

For instance, PAST Outdoors offers a range of hiking shoes, including the Lowa Innovo GTX Men's Hiking Boots, that have received a huge amount of positive feedback for their water resistance and overall performance. These boots are particularly beneficial for hikes involving uneven or slippery surfaces, providing the necessary grip and stability. 

Additionally, for those who prefer a more minimalist approach, PAST Outdoors also features options like the Bedrock Mountain Clogs, which combine the breathability of sandals with the support of hiking shoes. Ultimately, choosing the right hiking footwear depends on the specific demands of your hiking activities and personal comfort preferences.

The Pros and Cons of Hiking Shoes

Pros of hiking shoes:

✅ Protection: Closed-toe design shields feet from rocks, roots, and debris.

✅ Support: Better ankle and arch support, especially for rough or uneven terrain.

✅ Traction: Designed soles provide excellent grip on slippery or steep surfaces.

✅ Warmth: Better for cold or changing weather conditions.

✅ Versatile: Suitable for a wider range of trails, including technical hikes.

Cons of hiking shoes:

❌ Less breathable: Feet can get hot and sweaty, especially in warm weather.

❌ Heavier: Typically heavier than sandals, which can cause fatigue over long distances.

❌ Takes longer to dry: Not ideal for water crossings or wet conditions.

 

What are the pros and cons of Hiking Sandals?

Pros of hiking sandals:

✅ Breathability: Open design keeps feet cool and prevents sweat buildup.

✅ Quick-drying: Great for hikes that involve water, like river crossings.

✅ Lightweight: Easier on the feet for long treks or travel.

✅ Easy to clean: Rinse off dirt, mud, and sand with ease.

✅ Comfort: Great for casual hikes or as a camp shoe during backpacking trips.

Cons of hiking sandals:

❌ Less protection: Exposed toes and feet may be more vulnerable to injury.

❌ Limited support: Not ideal for ankle stability or carrying heavy loads.

Hiking sandals like the Bedrock Sandals Australia range offer great breathability, quick-drying materials, and lightweight comfort, making them ideal for warm weather or trails with water crossings. 

They’re easy to clean and provide a minimalist, freeing feel for casual hikes or as camp shoes. However, they lack the protection and support of hiking shoes and can be less suitable for rough or technical terrain where more grip and ankle support are needed.

Walking sandals Australia - what's the difference?

Walking sandals in Australia are a popular choice for everyday comfort, offering lightweight support and breathability for urban strolls, travel, or relaxed outdoor activities.

Designed with comfort in mind, they often feature cushioned footbeds and stylish, casual designs suitable for streets and light trails. In contrast, hiking sandals are built for tougher conditions, with rugged soles, enhanced grip, and adjustable straps to handle uneven terrain and wet environments. While both are open and breathable, hiking sandals prioritize durability and performance, whereas walking sandals focus more on comfort and casual wear.

Our Bedrock Sandals range are perfect for hiking and walking- whether you’re walking the Camino de Santiago or walking along Australia’s coastal tracks, Bedrock Sandals will give you comfort, and breathability for your next adventure. 

Our staff at PAST Outdoors love them! We wear them in store and out on walks and find them really comfortable and suitable for most short hikes and daily wear.

Whats the deal with Bedrock Mountain Clogs?

The Bedrock Mountain Clogs are a versatile footwear option designed for both rugged outdoor adventures and everyday comfort.

Featuring a durable upper made from either synthetic or leather materials, these clogs are built to withstand various terrains. 

The integration of a cushioned midsole atop a Vibram® Megagrip outsole ensures excellent traction and stability, making them suitable for hiking, camping, and casual wear. Additionally, the bedrock mountain clogs maintain a zero-drop profile, promoting natural foot movement.

With an adjustable strap system, they offer a customizable fit, catering to different foot shapes and preferences. Whether navigating trails or enjoying leisure activities, the Bedrock Mountain Clogs provide a blend of performance and comfort.

 

Why your hiking footwear needs to include Vibram

Vibram is a leading brand known for its high-performance outsoles, making it a crucial feature in hiking footwear. 

Vibram soles offer exceptional traction, durability, and grip, which are essential for navigating challenging terrains, whether you're tackling rocky paths, muddy trails, or slippery slopes.

Their design enhances stability and reduces the risk of slipping, providing hikers with a more secure footing on varied surfaces.

Vibram is featured in all of our Bedrock Sandals and Mountain Clogs. Including Vibram in your hiking footwear ensures you're equipped with reliable, long-lasting protection for your feet, helping to improve comfort and safety on your outdoor adventures.

Our consensus: hiking sandals, hiking shoes or hiking clogs?

What our team at PAST Outdoors think:

“I literally live in my Bedrock sandals. For daily use they’re super comfy and great for spills when my toddler decides she wants to throw food everywhere! I also have a pair of Lowa Innovo’s that I wear when we hike out in the bush as I am pretty risk averse and like to know my feet are warm and protected.” - Alli, Marketing & Communications Manager PAST Outdoors

“I love my Bedrock Sandals for everyday use, wearing on weekends and when I hike the Royal National Park. For major hikes, like my annual NZ trip, I use my Lowa Ranger III’s as they have a full RAND, stiff soles and a quality vibram sole. Having been in the military, I need to know I can trust my footwear when I am out in the elements. We have chosen every option possible, so you get a full range of options here at PAST Outdoors.” - Dave, Founder PAST Outdoors

“Depending on the hike, I tend to use my Bedrock Mountain Clogs the most as I can wear them with custom toe socks and they’re super comfy!” - Kristine, Assistant Manager

“For everyday wear and for short hikes, I always lean towards my Bedrock Mountain Clogs. When I am out on the tracks riding I use my Mammut Ultimate Boots as they give that extra ankle support for when I come off.”- Dan, Senior Warehouse Assistant PAST Outdoors

“I’m 100% sold on my Bedrock Sandals. I wear them on weekends when we head off camping with the family.” - Hunter, Warehouse Assistant PAST Outdoors

What type of Hiking footwear should I choose?

Ready to hit the trail with comfort, confidence, and style? Whether you’re navigating rugged terrain in durable hiking shoes, embracing the freedom of hiking sandals, or exploring the outdoors in versatile mountain clogs, your perfect adventure footwear is just a step away.

Discover top-quality footwear options from trusted brands like Bedrock Sandals Australia or Lowa Boots, built to handle everything from light walks to serious hikes. Don’t let your footwear hold you back—shop now and step into your next adventure with gear that’s made to move with you.