Chris Townsend tests an excellent pair of lightweight sandles at a reasonable price
Teva’s Terra series of sandals has been around for many years and there have been many models all designed to be tough and durable. As the name suggests the Fi Lite is one the lighter models.
The webbing upper of the Fi Lite is very similar to the first Teva sandals, which launched the whole sport/outdoor sandal design over forty years ago. The three Velcro straps allow for precise adjustability and really hold the foot in place. There are rigid plastic connectors between the straps and soft linings at pressure points.
The sole is well-cushioned, especially at the heel where there is a blended polyurethane/EVA unit called a Shoc Pad designed to ‘evenly transfer the energy of impact throughout the footbed and away from the heel.’ It’s certainly comfortable. The sole unit is curved with arch support and a well for the heel. It flexes easily. The tread is made from durable rubber and has a complex pattern of diamond and kite shapes that grips well.
The Terra Fi Lite is reasonably priced but only comes in men’s sizes. A version with leather straps comes in women’s sizes and costs another £10.
