Just in for review is a pair of brand spanking new for spring 2010 Teva Itundas, a shoe designed to work both on water and on the trail, says the brand.
The Itunda won a Gold Award at last year's Friedrichshafen OutDoor trade show and is a bit of a departure for Teva with a mixture of classic rafting sandal feaures and a protective cap to help keep your toe-nails firmly in place on the trail.
The Spider Rubber outsole is designed for grip on wet rocks and the footbed has drain frame technology - literally drain holes in the heel portion of the footbed exiting from the side of the mid-sole to allow water to escape.
Fabrics and materials are non-absorbent to allow for quick drying after immersion, but for trail use, the toe is totally enclosed. Up close, the Itunda looks cool in an understated sort of way. We like the quick closure and adjustable snap buckle, which together with a forefoot tensioner makes for easy donning and quick tailoring to foot shape.
They feel comfortable too, nicely cushioned thanks to the Shocpad heel insert and comfortable against the foot. Something called Topsole Wrap Technology means that the shoe's liner and footbed are integral.
An interesting alternative to Teva's more traditional sandals we think and particularly interesting if you habitually worry about stubbing your toes on rocks when walking in toeless models.
Out shortly at ￡75 per pair in both men's and women's versions. You can also win one of five pairs of Teva Itundas in our competition.