Merrell Hut Ultra Wrap Review: An Ugly-Chic Waterproof Sandal That Gives My Feet Some TLC

I’m a sucker for a two-strap comfort sandal, whether I’m running errands, going for an informal stroll, or simply puttering across the house. In reality, outside of after I’m doing something more lively, I’m rarely caught in anything but my Birkenstock Arizonas.

Then, when SELF’s 2023 Sneaker Awards got here around, I had the chance to check a sample of the Merrell Hut Ulta Wrap, a sandal similar in style to my Birkenstocks, but waterproof and with more cushion. As an enormous fan of water sports, I’m at all times excited to check out latest pool and beach-friendly options, so I used to be intrigued by this latest product. I slipped on a pair to see if they might earn an everyday spot in my footwear rotation.

Who it’s for

This sandal is made for individuals who need a convenient, waterproof recovery shoe. For instance, in case you’re someone like me who likes to swim laps, that is the proper pair to wear to and from the pool. It’s also an incredible option if comfort is vital for you: Merrell is thought for durable, cozy shoes, and the Hut Ultra Wrap Sandal takes it a step further with the inclusion of two various kinds of foam for cushioning and support.

Out of the box

My first impression of the shoe was that it gave the impression of the epitome of the ugly-chic trend. I attempted a pair within the Burlwood colorway, a reasonably neutral pink and beige combination (which actually doesn’t particularly remind me of burl). “They’re so ugly and cute at the identical time,” I slacked my colleagues upon receiving the sandals. I meant it as a high compliment.

Fit and feel

There’s an entire lot of froth within the Hut Ultra Wrap, which makes for a really lightweight shoe. Its adjustable straps assist you to customize the fit to the appropriate width for you, they usually were sturdy enough so my feet felt secure and stable after I walked in them.

On my activity

I first wore the Merrell Hut Ultra Wraps to the pool, where I spent the afternoon with a friend. We went from there to an art studio-warming party nearby, and I ended up wearing the sandals for the remaining of the evening. The shoes were great on the pool; they were easy to slide out and in of, and dried quickly even after I took a shower in them. Later, on the party, I stood around socializing in them for several hours and felt comfortable the complete time.

After that night, I wore them countless times to the pool and the beach. These sandals provide an especially comfortable cushion, and regardless of how much water splashed onto them on the pool deck, they didn’t remain soaked. One other thing I loved about these shoes is that they were sturdy enough to drive in—my previous go-to waterproof sandals weren’t.

I did take the Hut Ultra Wraps on a 15-minute walk from my house to a close-by restaurant one evening, and that was a step too far. They don’t have quite enough support for that sort of a stroll. (Luckily, I got a ride home that evening.) I made a decision that as amazing as these sandals are, they’re best used for recovery or more chill days somewhat than being more lively.

The underside line

I like these sandals. They’re the proper recovery shoe for anything water-related, and I actually enjoy them a lot that I find myself using them on dry land almost as much. The Merrell Hut Ultra Wraps have replaced my flimsy flip-flops, and my feet are a lot happier for it. For those who’re available in the market for a sturdy, comfortable recovery sandal, I can’t recommend these enough. While they’re not supportive enough to wear during higher intensity activity, they’re great for just about every part else.