Teva Original vs. Hurricane vs. Midform vs. Terra Fi 5: Comparison and Reviews 2024

Teva Original vs. Hurricane XLT 2 vs. Midform vs. Terra Fi 5:  Overview

1. Teva Original Universal

Official Price: $55

Reviews: Best known for their eye-catching styling and vibrant designs, Teva’s Original Universal Sandals are one of the most ubiquitous models on the market today, cost only $55. Despite its minimalist construction, the Original Universal doesn't compromise on cushioning. Its moderate 15.9/13.8 mm stack offers ample protection while maintaining a natural feel. To ensure it remains protective underfoot, its composition is a firm 35.1 HA at the bottom to shield us from rocks. Meanwhile, the foam closer to the foot is a softer 26.5 HA for comfort.

Plus, easy-to-adjust velcro straps are placed perfectly to keep everything stable on your feet, even on hikes and when crossing small streams. The Universal can also be purchased in a plethora of colors and patterns to suit your personal style. In addition to being inexpensive, comfy, and having a simple, streamlined appearance, these sandals are also made for the water. Because of the classic style and strong, quick-drying webbing, you can easily switch from short hiking trails to jumping on a SUP board. The Teva Original Universal isn't without its downfalls, though. Although soft and nicely cushioned, the EVA midsole is lacking in support and structure for covering long distances.

Where to Buy Teva Original Universal?

teva.com (3-4% cashback)

zappos.com (9.5-11.5% cashback)

backcountry.com (3-4% cashback)

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2. Teva Hurricane XLT2

Official Price: $75

Reviews: The Teva Hurricane XLT 2 is a classic design with three adjustable REPREVE® straps which a sizable step up in performance from the Original Universal above. The Hurricane XLT 2 combines EVA-foam midsoles with rugged Durabrasion Rubber outsoles for enhanced traction in aqueous endeavors, though they're just as nimble on land. The grippy outsole is a real treat, biting on loose gravel and both wet and dry rock and loose gravel.The quick-drying webbing is a blend of polyester, nylon, and recycled PET and features a neoprene cushioned heel pad that eliminates hot-spots.

The Hurricane is trail-ready with good cushioning for covering longer distances, a capable outsole and tread pattern for navigating variable terrain, and a strap layout that allows you to get an even fit around the foot. The raised arch and contoured footbed are like a hug for our feet, and keep our feet feeling supported and stable all day long. Plus, the Teva Hurricane XLT 2 didn’t skimp on the details, including a nylon shank for added stability on uneven surfaces and small patch of soft fabric along the inside of the heel strap to cushion the back of the ankle (an area prone to blisters and hot spots). In a word, Rock-solid stability, a durable, sticky outsole, and ample, plush cushioning make this sandal stand out from the crowd.

Where to Buy Teva Hurricane XLT2?

teva.com (3-4% cashback)

dickssportinggoods.com (1.5-2% cashback)

backcountry.com (3-4% cashback)

3. Teva Midform Universal

Official Price: $65

Reviews: The Teva Midform Universal Women’s Sandal is perfect for all your spring and summer activities! This sandal features light arch support and hook-and-loop closure with multiple points of adjustability to let you dial in the most comfortable fit. Featuring a just-right 1 ¼” height, the Midform Universal splits the difference between our Flatform Universal and our classic Original Universal for a fresh, toned-down take on the bold platform.

The Teva Midform Universal Sandals feature two Velcro fastenings on the straps, one at the ankle and the other at the toes. This helps you to achieve that perfect fit for your feet to ensure maximum support and comfort. Not only this, but the material used on the straps is so soft against the skin and is constructed using a water-ready polyester webbing. This makes the straps durable and quick-drying when they’ve got wet. The Teva Midform Universal Sandals also feature fun bounce pattern matches all the neutrals in your closet.

Where to Buy Teva Midform Universal?

teva.com (3-4% cashback)

macys.com (6.5-8% cashback)

zappos.com (9.5-11.5% cashback)

4. Teva Terra Fi 5

Official Price: $110

Reviews: Teva's Terra Fi 5 has a sleek design with classic Teva style, and the universal strap material and neoprene covers make it as comfortable in the water as it is on land. It is heavier than Teva’s own Hurricane XLT2. But with the added heft come upgrades in all-around quality and hiking capabilities, including a molded PU midsole with a notch at the back to keep your heel in place (and provide a touch of protection), a thick and tacky rubber outsole with deep lugs, and a TPU shank for added stability and support while hiking over uneven terrain. 

Plus, lined with lightweight, breathable, and 60% recycled polyester mesh, Teva’s Terra Fi 5 keeps your feet cool and comfortable. The easy hook-and-loop closure comes on and off quickly and gets the fit just right. In a word, it is a well-rounded option for summer hiking with good arch support and a nicely padded build, hardwearing construction, and effective strap layout that’s lined for added comfort and blister prevention.

Where to Buy Teva Terra Fi 5?

teva.com (3-4% cashback)

dickssportinggoods.com (1.5-2% cashback)

backcountry.com (3-4% cashback)

Teva Original vs. Hurricane XLT 2 vs. Midform vs. Terra Fi 5: Full Comparison

Before diving into my in-depth discussion, look at the table below to get a key specs of them.

Traction

When it comes to traction,  the Teva Original Universal falls a little short in that department.  They provide adequate traction under normal dry conditions, they start to struggle when things get wet and slippery. The plush footbed becomes slippery when wet, and the outsoles don't have enough depth or bite to keep up when the conditions get tougher.

The Teva Hurricane XLT 2 has above average traction thanks to a sturdy, yet light foundation. The outsole features decently deep treads set in firm rubber. It also has a semi-sporty tread that is by no means aggressive but can maintain a respectable grip on loose or moderately-technical trails.

The rubber outsole of Teva Midform sandals offers good durability and traction.  And the straps across your feet never hurt if wet or dry. They are very comfortable and have good arch support when walking.

Teva uses its proprietary Spider Rubber on the Terra Fi 5, which is engineered to be extra grippy and provide greater friction on tricky terrain. So the Terra Fi 5 provides adequate traction throughout various surfaces and even handles transitions from wet to dry with ease, getting beaten out only by models with Vibram soles.

Stability

With their low weight, classic strap design, and soft, flexible footbed and sole material, the Teva Original Universal struggles a bit with stability. You will find that the straps couldn't keep your feet from sliding around on steeper slopes or when your feet got wet.

The Teva Hurricane XLT 2 is surprisingly stable in rocky, demanding terrain. The foam midsole does cushion well on harder foot strikes. And the neoprene heel cushion is yet again appreciated for its enhanced grip to lock in your heel—especially in the water.

The Midform Universal Sandal gives you a fresh take on the trendy platform style: they get just the right amount of lift that still keeps them stable while traipsing over cobblestone streets. The supple straps let your feet flex freely while the heel cup and arch cushion give your long-lasting support.

The Teva Terra Fi 5 scores slightly lower in the stability metric due to its spongy and flexible footbed. Although the outsole is a tough and durable rubber that is beefy enough to handle sustained abuse on the trail, the sole still feels very soft and flexible overall which is not as supportive or stable as some heavier-duty models.

Adjustability

The Original Universal has a fixed heel strap and adjustable Velcro straps on the toe and ankle. This makes loosening and tightening a breeze and on-the-go adjustment quick and easy. But this simple Velcro strap system lacks some of the fine-tuning adjustability available on some of the other models. 

The Hurricane XLT 2 utilizes three adjustable straps that run behind the heel and twice over the top of the foot for a secure, intuitive fit.  Once the toe and heel straps are adjusted properly, you should only need to fiddle with one piece of velcro to get in or out of the sandal. On the move, velcro also makes for quick and easy tweaks.

The Midform Universal Sandal are super adjustable, thanks to the 2 velcro strap points that tighten up to the perfect fit.

The Teva Terra Fi 5 features highly adjustable and easy-to-use Velcro straps.It hugs your foot around the heel and in two places over the top of the foot. Once all three straps have been adjusted to a comfortable position, the user need only release one strap to slide in and out of the sandal.

Comfort

 A multi-density midsole starts with a nicely cushioned EVA foam footbed, followed by a thicker and firmer main midsole, capped off with a Durabrasion rubber outsole. Add to that a subtle 3-D molding on the footbed, and you come away with a very comfortable product. Plus, the intuitive Velcro strap design makes it easy to dial in the fit to your comfort level. In my opion, the Teva Original is quite comfortable under normal conditions. Only the footbed wet or sweaty will cause the foot to slide around a bit, negating some comfort.
The Hurricane XLT 2 has a soft footbed that conforms to the foot and offers a moderate amount of arch support. Made from EVA-foam, the insole requires no break-in period for your feet to feel comfortable and secure. Plus, the added neoprene cushion in the heel strap will be helpful in alleviating chafe when wet and aiding in security during climbs.

The Teva Midform sandals are comfortable for everyday wear. From lunchtime strolls back home around New York City to long days of sightseeing across Europe, they will never disappointed you.

Utilizing a comfortable and spongy footbed, the Terra Fi 5conforms to your foot and also provides a good amount of cushion from rough trails and hard impacts. However,  the quick-drying neoprene material that protects the feet from the webbing straps is very bulky and has some uneven surfaces which cause some uncomfort points.

Verdict

The Teva Original Universal sandal is Teva’s flagship, most popular sandal sporting over 1000 positive reviews on their website. It’s been around since 1984 and is “a testament to timeless comfort and utilitarian style.”  It reasonably capable for light outdoor uses like camping and short, easy day hikes. If you’re looking for an everyday sandal and care more about looks and price than hiking performance, the Original Universal has a lot of appeal.

The Teva Original Universal is a fun and stylish pick for everyday wear and casual outdoor outings, it falls noticeably short for more demanding pursuits. Although soft and nicely cushioned, the EVA midsole is lacking in support and structure for covering long distances. You can pay extra $20 to get a significantly upgraded sandal - Teva Hurricane XLT2  which can tackle more varied terrain. With the same levels of comfort and support, the Teva Hurricane XLT2 sandals have an extra level of grip via their Rugged Durabrasion Rubber outsole. This specially designed sole gives you extra grip as well as a bit more spring in your step, making them the perfect walking sandals for your summer adventures. 

Comfy and cute, the Teva Midform Universal Sandals can take on lake-day, beach trips, and bar outings with ease. All-day support is built-in thanks to the EVA midsole and recycled polyester webbing. Plus, the classic velcro straps ensure the perfect fit. But it’s worth noting that it’s only designed for women. I’d recommend the Teva Midform Universal Sandals to any adventurous woman who still likes to look fashionable on her travels. If you’re looking for casual, all-day comfort in a pair of sandals that can also keep up with the adventure, the Teva Midform Universal Sandals is your way to go.

The Teva Terra Fi 5 is a solid all-around sandal that provides reliable performance in many different conditions. Tailored for life's detours, The Terra FI 5 Universal features quick-drying webbing, a molded PU midsole, high-grip rubber outsole, and hook-and-loop closure to get you in and out in a flash. It is a nice option for those looking for an effective balance of weight, comfort, and long-term durability.

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