Sandals are the summer footwear trend of choice for many people, and they’re not only versatile (they look good with everything from swimsuits to a skirt) but also incredibly comfortable. But how do you find the right pair to fit your specific needs?

There are several different categories of sandals to choose from, each with its own unique strengths and drawbacks. First, there are those suited specifically to hiking and water sports, with specialized designs made with waterproof materials and technical features that make them ideal for hiking or taking on other outdoor activities like kayaking.

These designs tend to be more specialized than everyday sandals and put a premium on performance and grip over style and versatility. Some top choices in this category include Teva’s Original Universal, KEEN’s UNEEK, and Birkenstock’s Milano.

Hiking and trekking sandals are built with a sturdy rubber sole to protect your feet from rocky terrain and provide excellent traction in muddy or wet conditions, while softer EVA foam or Super EVA foam insoles add support for walking long distances. They’re also ideal for a variety of other activities where you need to keep your feet dry, such as rafting and traveling.

Some brands offer a more streamlined build that’s designed to be lighter and flexible, but they can have major compromises in areas like durability, support, and comfort. This is especially true of minimalist offerings like the Xero Z-Trail EV below, which are a great choice for light outdoor use but tend to be less supportive than a model built with a higher degree of padding and support.

The Z-Trail EV has plenty of grip and traction to keep you from sinking into wet or rocky surfaces, but its thin midsole lacks the bouncy support you need for longer hikes and it can be susceptible to wear down over time if you’re not careful. That’s why it’s important to shop for a pair of sandals that can handle a lot of wear and tear before you start planning a big backpacking trip or spending a long time in the mountains.

Another option is the UNEEK from KEEN, which uses an innovative braided nylon construction that stretches and weaves in and out throughout the upper to promote a supple feel and close, foot-hugging fit. This type of design is a bit more bulky than a standard strap sandal, but it’s an interesting way to push the boundaries of style and functionality.

For those looking to stray from the traditional, minimal sandal aesthetic, there are a number of styles that incorporate edgy detailing and embellishments into their design. This Loewe sandal is a prime example of that, with black leather straps and a pink birthday candle-and-red nail polish bottle heel for a touch of glam.

Braided sandals are also a hot trend this season, with labels like Balmain and Vince Camuto offering them in a range of neutral colors. These woven looks have the benefit of adding some extra texture and interest to your outfit while keeping it casual enough for a day out on the town, too.