Teva Hurricane XLT2, Original Universal & Hydratrek Sandals: Your Most Asked Questions Answered.

Teva Sandals have been stocked at Urban Industry since 2017 and have become a firm favourite with staff members and customers alike. The sheer simplicity of the design matched with really hard wearing fabrics and parts means these sandals can go on and on for all your travel plans.

I’ve walked, hiked and waded in Teva's even before we stocked them and I have the same pairs from over 8 years ago still in my summer rotation, both at home and on holidays, they just keep on going no matter what you throw at them.

Here at Urban Industry we often get asked some of these key questions about Teva's so lets get these FAQ's down all in one place...

Do Teva Sandals Require a Break-in Period?

Short answer? Not really. Longer answer: Teva sandals like the Hurricane XLT2 and Original Universal are pretty much ready to go straight out of the box and with comfort.

But everyone has different feet so they might feel a touch stiff on Day 1. After one or two wears, they soften up beautifully. Especially the padded straps on models like the Hurricane XLT2 — they’re designed to mould to your foot in a double quick fashion.

Our Tip: Wear them around the house for an hour or two before your first proper outing.Make all the sizing adjustments with the straps to get the right, comfortable fit for you and they fit like a dream on your first proper outing. 

Are Teva Sandals Comfortable for Long Walks or Hikes?

Absolutely... Once you've got those first initial wears and walks done in them they will really start to fit your foot like a glove... (excuse the mixed metaphor there...)

Thanks to cushioned midsoles and lightweight, grippy soles, models like the Hurricane XLT2 and Hydratrek are super comfortable for long walks and even moderate hikes.

My best experience of using my Hurricane XLT2's was on a trip to Turkey where we did a jeep safari, visited mountain areas, walked through gorges filled with rocks and water and then canoed back to the jeeps down a long and winding river, finished off with a mud bath at the end. The Teva's didn't give me any grief for the whole day. A quick rinse off in the evening with water and they were good to go again the next day.

Ive worn them on beach holidays in Greece, the USA and all around the UK and they are ideal for transitioning between the beach, sea and then to walk around the town to find a cafe or bar. 

The Super Comfortable Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sole Unit for miles of grippy movement.

Key comfort features:

• EVA foam midsoles for soft cushioning

• Adjustable straps for a custom fit

• Rugged outsole tread for grip (even when Mother Nature gets moody)

You can even where Teva Sandals with socks if thats your thing....

How Do Teva Sandals Fit? Do They Run True to Size?

For most people I'd recommend buying True to size. But (because there’s always a but) — if you're between sizes, I’d recommend sizing up.

Teva Sandals Sizing Quick Guide:

The adjustable Velcro straps are the Teva's super power — you can tweak the fit to your heart’s content.

How Do Teva Sandals Perform in Wet Conditions?

In a word? Superbly!

Teva practically invented the "sport sandal," and water-readiness is baked into their DNA. Whether you're river trekking, paddle-boarding, or getting caught in an English summer shower, the quick-dry webbing and grippy soles are incredibly functional.

Note: Models like the Hydratrek are specifically designed for "wet missions" and are a cut above if you're planning to stay in and around water all day.

Teva Hydratrek Sandals showing off there super grip in the wet sole units,

Performance Checklist:

• Water-friendly recycled polyester webbing

• Fast-drying materials

• Slip-resistant outsole

Me... Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals in a River in Turkey

Are Teva Sandals Suitable for Hiking or Backpacking?

Yes — but choose your model carefully.

For casual to moderate hikes, the Hurricane XLT2 is the obvious choice. It's lightweight, cushioned, and rugged enough for uneven terrain.

If you’re planning serious backpacking through rocky or mountainous areas? You might want sturdier hiking boots like a pair of Danner Boots. That said, I’ve seen plenty of thru-hikers clip a pair of Tevas onto their packs as "camp shoes."

Perfect Teva Matches:

• Day hikes ✔

• City exploration ✔

• Beach days ✔

• Hardcore mountain treks ❌ (pick boots instead)

How Durable Are Teva Sandals?

Think of them as Summer Swiss Army Knife of the footwear world...

I also have a pair of Teva Original Universals that’s survived several beach holidays, a festival and countless walks round cities. Years later? Still going strong.

Durability Boosters:

• Hardwearing rubber outsoles

• Water-resistant webbing

• Reinforced strap points

And when you get your pair your Teva's will get better with time.

What Materials Are Used in the Straps and Soles?

Straps: Recycled polyester webbing throughout. It's lightweight, super strong, and dries really fast. Many times I've simply left them outside a tent or next to my sun bed to dry in the sun.

Soles: A sturdy combo of rubber and EVA foam for cushioning + grip.

In short? Materials chosen to take a beating — from city pavements to rugged trails.

Do Teva Sandals Have Good Arch Support?

Good news if you’re arch-sensitive: YES.

The Hurricane XLT2 and Hydratrek especially have built-in arch support that helps distribute weight evenly, reducing fatigue on longer walks.

While they’re not "orthopedic" level, they're definitely miles better than your average flat flip-flop. Ive always found that one of the major plus points of Teva is that I just don't get on with the classic toe thong flip flop where it feels like im having to monkey grab the shoe with my toes all day, the straps keep the shoe in place so you just tighten them up and off you go. 

If you need maximum arch support, opt for the Hydratrek — it's designed with a little extra support.

Do Teva Sandals Cause Blisters?

Honestly? Rarely — and mostly if they’re not fitted right.

Because of the adjustable straps and cushy footbeds, blisters are pretty uncommon. But if you cinch them too tight you might cause rubbing.

Our Tip: Adjust the straps so they're "snug but not strangling." Your toes will thank you.

A little common sense on how you adjust them for your own comfort goes a long way.

What Are the Main Differences Between the Teva Hurricane and Teva Hydratrek Models?

A quick top level look at both models...

If you want an everyday, go anywhere sandal — grab the Hurricane XLT2. If you’re planning a trip with more water dunks involved then go with the Hydratrek.

Our Final Thoughts

Teva sandals are and often overlooked part of your annual footwear collection — a clever blend of comfort, style, and ruggedness that can take you from cobbled streets to crashing waves without missing a beat.

Whether you’re checking out the Hurricane XLT2, the classic Original Universal, or the go anywhere Teva Hydratrek, there's a perfect pair for you. 

Ready to find your perfect pair of Teva's? Check out our full Teva collection and hit the ground strolling.