Lightweight practical walking sandals
This has been a good summer for walking in sandals and I’ve been doing so frequently. Most recently I’ve been wearing the Merrell Sandspur Rift Strap, which I’ve found comfortable and practical. These have synthetic leather straps with Velcro closures at the heel, instep and forefoot. The straps are Lycra lined for comfort. I found that I only needed to use the instep strap once the other ones were adjusted to my feet, making getting the sandals on and off very quick and easy.
The sole unit cushions and grips well. The midsole is made of EVA and there’s Merrell’s air cushion in the heel for extra shock absorption. A moulded nylon arch shank stops the sandals twisting much from side to side. Toe to heel they are very flexible. The outsole is Merrell’s Select GRIP and it really does the last. The sole is curved and the footbed is shaped to support the foot and hold it in place. The footbed is soft too and feels comfortable against the skin. There’s no lip to protect the toes but I haven’t had any problems with my feet slipping forwards.
I’ve worn the Sandspur Rift Strap sandals on a wide variety of rough terrain and felt perfectly secure in them. My only objection is to the long-winded name! If you like walking in sandals they are well worth considering, especially as they’re quite light at 580 grams (size 9) and the price is very reasonable. They’re available in men’s sizes 6-15. There isn’t a women’s version – the Sandspur Delta Wrap looks the closest in a women’s fit.
£60
