Wild Tested: @amyinthewild's Gumbies Sandal Showdown
As a self-proclaimed adventurer, I spend a lot of time on my feet, which means finding the perfect footwear is essential to staying comfortable. I’m Amy, also known as @amyinthewild on Instagram, a name that perfectly sums up my lifestyle. I’m passionate about all things outdoors, wildlife, and adventure. With a busy schedule that includes working at an animal sanctuary, studying for a master’s in Wildlife Biology and Conservation, and keeping up appearances online, I always try to make the most of my free time. When I head out exploring, my Gumbies are what I reach for — they carry me through my hikes and help me make the most of every moment. With summer on the way, I’ve been putting some of Gumbies’ most iconic sandals and flip-flops to the test.
I was immediately impressed by the barefoot feel of the Tracker sandals. That might sound like a strange thing to say — after all, sandals are about as barefoot as footwear gets! But many hiking sandals come with thick soles for grip and stability or bulky straps for security, and personally, I’m not a fan of that. I’ve found it hard to get on board with heavy, overbuilt designs, so it’s been a dream to have a sandal that delivers a truly barefoot feel without compromising on the essentials.
Before receiving the Trackers, I searched high and low for good barefoot options. Most were seriously overpriced or didn’t quite tick all the boxes. I needed something that would stay secure and feel comfortable over long distances — and that’s exactly what the Tracker delivers. I’ve hiked miles in these sandals, even over rocky terrain, without a hint of discomfort. The barefoot design helps on trickier surfaces, giving you more awareness of where you’re stepping. And when I’m walking on harder ground like city streets, they’re still super comfortable. You really do get the best of both worlds with the Tracker.
The Scrambler Sandal
The cushioned sole on the Scrambler sandals is incredibly comfortable. After wearing the Tracker, I was initially concerned that the Scramblers might feel thicker or more restrictive. But Gumbies has clearly mastered the art of barefoot comfort without losing that soft, cushy feel.
My only hesitation is the PET plastic straps. They felt a bit more rigid and traditional than the fabric ones on the Tracker. While they provide excellent security—and might even be a better fit for many people—I personally prefer the more flexible feel of fabric straps.
What really sets the Scrambler apart is the EVA footbed. It’s soft, springy, and quick-drying, perfect for wet conditions. They’ve become my go-to for beach days, especially when I can’t resist a dip in the sea. Water runs off them, and they dry fast — no soggy sandal situations here.
Which One Wins?
If I had to choose one for hiking, the Tracker comes out on top. The fabric straps make a big difference in long-distance comfort, especially when your feet are already working hard. That said, despite the Scrambler having a thicker sole, I didn’t notice any extra weight. For more casual summer days where I’m not covering huge distances but still need support and grip, I reach for the Scramblers.
Vegovert Flip-Flops
Usually, I steer clear of thick-soled footwear — I like the feel of the ground under my feet. But wearing the Vegovert flip-flops is like walking on clouds. I didn’t expect to fall for them as much as I did, but once I slipped them on, I basically didn’t take them off for weeks.
One thing I was worried about was the toe strap. I’ve never been a huge flip-flop fan because they tend to rub and irritate, but that wasn’t the case here. I could walk for miles in the Vegoverts without any issues. They’ve really nailed the comfort factor.
Islander Flip-Flops
Living on an island, I couldn’t wait to try the flip-flop called the “Islander” — and they did not disappoint. Just like the Tracker sandals, the barefoot feel is spot on. The toe straps are made from the same flexible fabric, and even though the Vegovert set a high bar, the Islanders are just as comfortable in their own way.
While they don’t offer that super-cushioned feel like the Vegoverts, they provide a lot more flexibility and freedom, which is exactly what I want when I’m wandering across pebbly beaches or dipping in and out of the water. These are my go-to for seaside adventures.
Which Flip-Flop Wins?
In hot weather, the last thing you want is to feel trapped in your shoes. Flip-flops are perfect for freedom and quick cooling, and both deliver, just in different ways.
For city days and dressier summer outfits, I go for the Vegovert. They look a bit more polished, and their sweat-wicking properties are incredible. As someone who gets really sweaty during peak summer, that feature alone has been a game-changer.
But when it comes to full-on beach days, it’s all about the Islander. The lightweight fabric dries quickly and feels natural when walking over sand and through water. I honestly can’t choose just one overall winner — they’re both brilliant in their own ways. Maybe you should just try both!
So, What Now?
All in all, Gumbies excels at what they do. The iconic rubber soles featured across their range are incredibly grippy, essential for someone like me who’s always on the move, exploring different terrains.
If you’re looking for a true barefoot experience, the Islander flip-flops and Tracker sandals give you that feeling of freedom while still protecting your feet. But even the slightly more cushioned Scrambler sandals and Vegovert flip-flops don’t stray too far from that ethos — they add an extra layer of comfort for when your feet need a bit of a break.
If you haven’t already, check out my Gumbies blog to hear more about my journey, love of the outdoors, and why I’m so passionate about the brand. Then, grab yourself a pair (or two) — your summer adventures are waiting!
