We can all remember so clearly that one kid in school who wore sandals every single day–snow, rain, freezing temperatures; he didn't care and it didn’t matter. The spirit of the sandal kid is very much alive in Bedrock Sandals, a minimalist hiking sandal brand that's gathered a devoted following amongst outdoorsy types, perhaps most-so in the company's newest piece of footwear, the Mountain Clog.
Bedrock Sandals made their mark on the adventure sandal world with their ultralight Classic Sandals ($85), which have a design that's akin to a mash-up between flip-flops and hiking sandals. Those familiar with that sandal—or the more supportive Cairn Sandals ($115-140)—will immediately recognize that the Bedrock DNA is still present in the Mountain Clog.

Like the sandals, the Mountain Clog has a lightweight zero-drop Vibram sole and an adjustable strap system to secure the heel. But here, the paracord big toe thong gets replaced by a more protective closed-toe upper, available in both leather or a perforated and lined synthetic. Both material versions of the clog include a pronounced toe cap made from grippy climbing rubber, the same stuff a pair of climbing shoes uses to hold onto rock walls (making it inevitable that somebody will send the proj in a pair of Mountain Clogs).
Compared to Bedrock's sandals, the Mountain Clog is as ready for adventure—unlike Crocs, these clogs are designed for legitimate all-terrain wear—though it's dressed up enough to rock at the coffee shop without getting sandal kid shade. But the best part might be that after miles and miles of wear, owners of the all-terrain clog can ship them off to Bedrock’s Missoula, Montana headquarters for a full-blown resole service, and a few more years of use.
Price: $160 (synthetic upper); $175 (leather upper)

Published 02-22-2023