Buckle up: sandals fit for sports

During a recent trip to Costco, I noticed that half the people pushing shopping carts were wearing sports sandals. It’s easy to forget that this type of footwear was originally designed for sports. Colorado River guide Mark Thatcher invented sports sandals in 1982 after he grew tired of whitewater rapids tearing his shoes off. He formed a company, Teva Sport Sandals, that spawned an industry and legions of versatile, comfortable and sometimes sports-specific varieties. Here are four good ones.

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For the river wild

Teva Guide Wraptor LC: Best river shoe from the industry pioneer.

Likes: Won’t fall off in rough water; three Velcro and buckle straps cinch sandal tight. Unique big-toe loop prevents wet foot from sliding sideways. “Sticky rubber” outsoles grip slick river rocks and raft or kayak surfaces well. Antimicrobial treatment reduces foot odor and fungus. Good for walking, jogging and most land activities.

Dislikes: Not suitable for trail hikes because outsole lacks studs and has unprotected toe area (little rocks may lodge under your foot). The toe-loop may be confining to some (option: loop-less Guide Wraptor, $90).

Price: $95. (800) 367-8382; www.teva.com.

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It’s a sandal, it’s a shoe

Keen Jamestown: Closed-toe sandal-shoe.

Likes: Rubber enclosure protects toes from injuries on the trail, boat or bike path. Waterproof leather dries quickly. Handsome design is appropriate with street clothing and socks. Wide forefoot provides comfortable fit.

Dislikes: Enclosed toe area is not as ventilated as regular sandals, so toes get quite sweaty in warm weather, unless you’re in and out of the water. I found it bothersome without socks.

Price: $85. (800) 509-5336; www.keensan dals.com.

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That gladiator look

Bite Trail High: A high-top sandal with Roman gladiator looks.

Likes: Very stable while moving fast on trails; good lateral support from wide outsole. Has an ankle wrap and three buckle/Velcro straps. Plastic toe shield protects toes and allows normal sandal ventilation. Best of the bunch for keeping out rocks during hikes.

Dislikes: At 17 ounces, the heaviest of the group. Small rocks occasionally got in under my feet despite the sandal’s toe shield and raised lip around the foot bed. Cheaper, low-top Bite models are better for trail running.

Price: $89.99. (800) 248-3465; www.biteshoes.com.

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For rocks and hard places

Nike ACG Air Rogue: Multi-functional water and land sandal.

Likes: “Sticky” rubber lugged outsole prevents slips on wet riverbank rocks and while paddling. Well-cushioned. Light (11 ounces).

Dislikes: Too light for prolonged running or hiking on rocky terrain.

Price: $60; www.niketown.com

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-- Roy M. Wallack