Learn out why our Equipment Editor found the Merrell Kahuna IIIs too complex for hiking sandals.

Merrell has been making excellent sandals for many years. However, I think the Kahuna III is unnecessarily complex – not a word usually associated with sandals.

Chris Townsend’s verdict

The Kahunas perform fine. I found them supportive and comfortable. I just think they are over-designed.
Pros
  • Vibram sole
Cons
  • Limited adjustability
  • Fussy front closure
Quick Specs
Price: $133 / £100
Weight: 660g (UK size 9)
Materials: Pig suede upper, Lycra neoprene lining, Vibram Chameleon Sport Sandal Sole/rubber
Features: External TPU heel stability arm, air cushion in the heel
Heel-to-toe drop: 15mm
Lug depth: 4mm
Sizes: UK men 6-14, women 3-8
Women/Mens version: Yes
merrell.com

It’s a two-strap open-toe sandal with a little more foot covering than in similar models. The rear heel and ankle strap is connected to the front strap with suede straps, which I don’t think are necessary, but the front strap arrangement is more fussy. This closes with both hook and loop and a clip buckle.

It also has stretch neoprene underneath that wraps over the foot. I found the latter held my foot firmly enough that I didn’t need the buckle or hook and loop. That’s probably because of my wide feet. Those with slim feet may well need the strap as well. Even so, I don’t think it needs two fastening methods. And if you need the strap then you don’t need the neoprene panel.

From left: Keen, Merrell, Columbia. Credit: Chris Townsend
From left: Keen, Merrell, Columbia. Credit: Chris Townsend

The suede upper is lined with soft Lycra neoprene throughout. This feels pleasant against the skin and has a microbial treatment. The sole unit has good cushioning in the heel, which contains Merrell’s air cushion, but it is rather thin at the forefoot.

The Vibram outsole grips well and doesn’t easily clog up. The sole is quite stiff for a sandal though I didn’t notice this when walking. It curves a little at the toe to give a little protection.

The Kahunas perform fine. I found them supportive and comfortable. I just think they are over-designed. I can’t see any advantages of the extra features over simpler sandals. They are the heaviest and most expensive sandal tested too.

Testing conditions

Chris wears a UK size 9, has a wide forefoot and a narrower heel. He tested the sandals in the woods and heather moors of the Eastern Cairngorms in autumn 2024 and spring 2025. Weights, lug depth and heel to toe drop were measured by Chris.

This review was first published in the July 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.