LL Bean does it again! I have a pair of Keen sandals that cost almost twice as much as the Explorer sandals, and I like the Bean sandals better. I have a narrow foot, and they fit well, and they have lots of cushoning in the sole. I wear them while running errands, walking the dog, and to the beach. They are selling fast - I wanted to buy another pair in a different color, but they are all sold out. I would definitely recommend these sandals.
I bought these to wear while launching my kayak. They pretty much do the trick where a flip flop would not, but care should be taken to stay off of deep muddy surfaces, wet super slick embankments, and creek beds filled with pebbles. I have worn them while carrying my kayak up a grass hill and a slightly damp clay embankment without slipping. I've worn them in shallow mud to the top of my foot without losing the sandal in the process. They're pretty comfortable. I'd buy a second pair just for everyday summer wear but not for rigorous hiking, because the sole is not as sturdy as Keen's (also small rocks and pebbles will get in the sandal).
With regard to the size, I have skinny feet so my usual size fit just fine.
First of all, let me say that I always read but never write product reviews. I'm making an exception in this case. Bought these sandals for an all-around shoe for camping that included hiking, biking, kayaking and shopping (only because I love my wife). These sandals are the best! Very comfortable...good support (not like flipflops)...closed toe provides great protection without being overdone. They passed the acid test on a 6 mile hike in the Adirondacks. The trail was filled with tree roots, rocks, mud and leaves. The trail also served as a river after heavy rains. I thought for sure that the sandals would delaminate, lose their support or fall apart since most of the hike was through water. They were awesome!!! No other way to put it. Haven't tried Keene sandals but you'd be hard-pressed to beat these, especially when Keene's are almost twice the price. On the negative side, they didn't make me like shopping any better...go figure!
Very comfortable and they look great. Most of my shoes are size 12, I got the 11.5 based on recommendations in other reviews and they fit perfectly. My wife loves them. Highly recommended.
