Nisolo Women's Huarache Sandal 2.0 Review: Comfort, Style, and Sustainability

When summer rolls around, few shoes are as iconic as the huarache sandal. Nisolo’s Women’s Huarache Sandal 2.0 updates a classic design with modern comfort and ethical production. After wearing them for several weeks, here’s my honest take on how they perform, how they fit, and whether they live up to the brand’s sustainability promise.

I tested the Gunmetal colorway, which has a subtle metallic sheen that dresses up effortlessly. But beyond looks, I wanted to know: Are these sandals comfortable for all-day wear? Do they hold up on city sidewalks? And how do they compare to other sustainable sandals on the market? Let’s dive in.

First Impressions and Materials

Out of the box, the Women’s Huarache Sandal 2.0 feels substantial without being heavy. The leather is supple and has a natural grain that suggests it will age beautifully. Nisolo uses full-grain leather from a Gold-rated tannery, which means fewer chemicals and less water waste. The sole is a durable rubber with good traction, and the woven straps are stitched securely.

What surprised me most was the footbed. It’s cushioned with a contoured arch support that you don’t always find in flat sandals. If you’ve worn other huaraches that feel like walking on cardboard, this is a welcome upgrade. The leather lining also helps reduce friction, which is a common pain point with woven styles.

• Full-grain leather from a Gold-rated tannery for lower environmental impact.
• Contoured footbed with arch support – a rarity in flat sandals.

Fit and Sizing

I typically wear a US 8 in most shoes, and the size 8 in these sandals fit true to size. The woven straps have a bit of give, but they don’t stretch out excessively over time. If you have narrow feet, you might find the straps a little loose; if you have wide feet, the open weave accommodates nicely. The adjustable ankle strap is a plus for fine-tuning the fit.

One thing to note: the leather will soften and conform to your foot after a few wears, so they may feel slightly stiff initially. Give them a short break-in period of a few hours. Compared to the Men’s Huarache Sandal 2.0, the women’s version has a slightly narrower last, so men with narrow feet might also consider this style.

• True to size for most; adjustable ankle strap helps customize fit.
• Allow a short break-in period as leather softens.

Comfort for All-Day Wear

I wore these sandals on a day that involved walking about 5 miles, including pavement, grass, and a bit of gravel. The footbed provided enough cushioning that my feet didn’t ache by the end of the day. The arch support is moderate – not aggressive, but enough to prevent fatigue. The rubber sole has a subtle tread that grips well on smooth surfaces.

That said, if you require maximum arch support or have plantar fasciitis, you may want to add an orthotic insert. The footbed is removable, which is a thoughtful detail. For casual wear, commuting, or light hiking, these sandals are extremely comfortable. They also pair well with the Cotton Mid Sock Indigo Marl for a transitional look.

• Removable footbed allows for custom orthotics if needed.

Style Versatility

The huarache design is inherently versatile. The Gunmetal color I tried works with everything from denim shorts to linen trousers and sundresses. The woven pattern adds texture without being too loud. If you prefer a more neutral option, the classic brown or black versions are timeless. These sandals can easily transition from a beach day to a casual dinner out.

Compared to the Go-To Flatform Sandal, the Huarache 2.0 offers a lower profile and a more minimalist aesthetic. It’s also noticeably lighter. If you’re looking for a sandal that can be dressed up or down, this is a solid choice. The leather develops a patina over time, which adds character.

• Gunmetal adds a subtle metallic sheen; brown and black are classic choices.

Sustainability and Ethical Production

Nisolo is known for its commitment to ethical manufacturing and environmental responsibility. The Women’s Huarache Sandal 2.0 is made in a family-owned factory in León, Mexico, where workers receive fair wages and safe conditions. The leather is sourced from a Gold-rated tannery by the Leather Working Group, meaning it meets high standards for water and energy use.

Additionally, Nisolo offsets the carbon emissions from production and shipping, and they offer a carbon offset option at checkout for customers who want to go further. While no product is perfectly sustainable, this sandal represents a thoughtful step in the right direction. For comparison, the Alex Commuter Backpack also uses similar eco-conscious materials.

• Made in a fair-wage factory in León, Mexico.
• Gold-rated leather and carbon offset program reduce environmental impact.

The Nisolo Women’s Huarache Sandal 2.0 delivers on comfort, style, and sustainability. With a contoured footbed, quality leather, and ethical production, it’s a sandal you can feel good about wearing every day. If you’re in the market for a versatile, eco-friendly sandal that doesn’t sacrifice comfort, this is a top contender.