The Decathlon Bivouac MT500 Sandals present a compelling option for those venturing into the world of barefoot footwear. As someone who values minimalist design and functionality in outdoor gear, I approached these sandals with high expectations, particularly given their reasonable price point of £21.99. After testing them extensively, I can confidently say that they largely live up to their promise, though they are not without a few flaws.
Key Features and Design
The MT500 sandals are designed with input from hikers and even a chiropodist, which speaks to the attention to detail in their ergonomic design. These sandals are aimed at providing a comfortable, minimalistic experience right from the first step. Their ultra-thin, rubber sole is a standout feature, offering excellent ground feel that is crucial for those accustomed to barefoot footwear. The sole also boasts a good grip, making them suitable for various outdoor activities, from casual walks to more challenging treks.
One of the primary attractions of the MT500 sandals is their lightweight and flexible construction. They are incredibly easy to pack, taking up minimal space in your backpack, which is a significant advantage for hikers and travellers. The sandals’ flexibility ensures that your feet can move naturally, a core principle of barefoot footwear that promotes healthy foot biomechanics.
Comfort and Fit
The comfort of these sandals is enhanced by their two-strap system, which includes an adjustable crossover toe strap secured with velcro. This design is particularly beneficial for those who find toe-post sandals uncomfortable. The straps provide a secure fit, keeping the sandal firmly in place during various activities.
However, one area where the MT500 sandals fall short is in their shape. The sandals are quite tapered, which does not align with the natural shape of the foot. This can lead to some discomfort, as the straps may restrict toe movement. While I was able to adjust the straps to achieve a more comfortable fit, this workaround might not be satisfactory for everyone. For those who prioritise a truly foot-shaped sandal, it might be worth considering an investment in a more specialised barefoot brand.
Durability and Versatility
Durability is another strong suit of the MT500 sandals. They appear well-constructed and hard-wearing, capable of withstanding the rigours of outdoor use. The rubber sole, in particular, seems designed to last, providing both resilience and good traction on a variety of surfaces.
Versatility is a mixed bag with these sandals. They excel as a functional trekking or hiking sandal, but their aesthetic leaves much to be desired. The design is quite utilitarian, and the straps are frankly quite unattractive. This limits their use as a casual everyday sandal, particularly if you want something that can transition from trail to town. The aesthetics make it difficult to dress them up for more casual or social settings.
Value for Money
At £21.99, the MT500 sandals are an excellent value, especially for those new to barefoot footwear. They provide many of the benefits of more expensive minimalist sandals without the hefty price tag. The price point makes them accessible to a wider audience, allowing more people to experience the advantages of barefoot hiking and trekking.
Availability and Sizing
These sandals are available exclusively online through Decathlon, which might be inconvenient for those who prefer to try on footwear before purchasing. However, the online ordering process is straightforward, and I opted for in-store delivery, which was efficient and hassle-free.
The sizing range is impressive, spanning EU36 to EU45. This inclusivity is commendable, as it caters to a broad spectrum of foot sizes. Finding a size EU36 in minimalist sandals can be particularly challenging, so this is a notable positive for those with smaller feet.
The Decathlon Bivouac MT500 Sandals are a robust and affordable option for those interested in minimalist footwear. They offer a flexible, lightweight design that promotes natural foot movement, and their durable construction ensures they can handle the demands of outdoor activities. The adjustable strap system is a thoughtful feature, providing a secure and comfortable fit, especially for those who dislike toe-post designs.
However, the tapered shape and less-than-attractive aesthetics are notable drawbacks. While the sandals perform admirably on the trail, their design does not lend itself well to casual, everyday wear. For those seeking a truly foot-shaped sandal or something more stylish, it might be worth investing in a more premium barefoot brand.
Despite these shortcomings, the MT500 sandals represent excellent value for money. They are a fantastic entry point for beginners looking to explore barefoot footwear without a significant financial commitment. For £21.99, they deliver on many fronts, making them a worthwhile addition to any hiker’s gear collection.
In summary, the Decathlon Bivouac MT500 Sandals are almost perfect. They strike a balance between affordability and functionality, making them a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate minimalist design. While not without their flaws, the positives outweigh the negatives, especially for those new to barefoot shoes. If you can overlook the aesthetic limitations and minor fit issues, these sandals are an excellent, budget-friendly option for embracing the benefits of barefoot hiking and trekking.
Brit 👣