Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals Review: An Honest Look at Comfort vs. Durability

There’s a specific kind of freedom that comes with the first warm day of the year—the kind that makes you want to shed heavy boots and let your feet breathe. For me, that freedom is embodied by a reliable pair of walking sandals. For years, I’ve been on a quest for the ultimate do-it-all summer footwear: something rugged enough for a dusty trail walk with the dog, comfortable enough for a full day of sightseeing on holiday, and casual enough for a trip to the local pub garden. The wrong pair can lead to disaster—blisters, sore arches, and straps that dig in mercilessly. The right pair, however, becomes an extension of your body, a trusted companion for every adventure. It’s this search for that perfect balance of ruggedness, comfort, and value that led us to test the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals, a product that, on paper, promises to tick all the right boxes.

What to Consider Before Buying Walking Sandals

A pair of walking sandals is more than just open-toed footwear; it’s a key solution for staying comfortable, supported, and cool during warmer months or on holiday. The primary benefit is ventilation, preventing the overheating and sweating associated with closed shoes, which can lead to discomfort and blisters. They offer a unique blend of the freedom of a flip-flop with the structural support of a walking shoe, incorporating features like cushioned footbeds, arch support, and secure strap systems to keep your foot stable on uneven terrain. This makes them indispensable for everything from beach strolls and city explorations to light hiking and daily errands.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who leads an active lifestyle in warm weather and prioritises comfort and foot health. This includes holidaymakers, casual walkers, dog owners, and anyone who spends significant time on their feet outdoors. However, they might not be the best choice for individuals tackling serious, technical hiking trails where the ankle support and protection of a full hiking boot are required. Similarly, those seeking footwear for formal occasions or a corporate environment would need to look at other options. For those needing maximum breathability but in a closed-toe format, a lightweight mesh trainer could be a suitable alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Fit & Sizing: This is the most critical factor. A sandal that is too small will cause your toes or heel to hang over the edge, leading to discomfort and potential injury. One that is too large will allow your foot to slide around, causing friction and blisters. Pay close attention to sizing charts and, crucially, user feedback, as some brands run notoriously small or large. Adjustable straps are a must-have feature for dialling in a perfect, secure fit.
• Cushioning & Support: The performance of a sandal is dictated by its midsole and footbed. Look for materials like Phylon or EVA foam, which provide lightweight cushioning and shock absorption. A moulded or contoured footbed that supports the natural arch of your foot is essential for preventing fatigue during long walks. A flat, unsupportive footbed can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis over time.
• Materials & Durability: The materials used determine both the comfort and the lifespan of the sandals. Uppers made from polyester or synthetic textiles with a neoprene lining offer a good balance of quick-drying properties and soft, next-to-skin comfort. The outsole should be made of a durable rubber or synthetic material with a deep tread pattern for reliable grip on various surfaces, from wet pavement to dry trails. Pay close attention to how the straps are anchored to the sole, as this is a common point of failure.
• Fastening System & Adjustability: The most common system is Hook & Loop (Velcro), which offers excellent and easy adjustability across the instep, forefoot, and heel. This allows you to customise the fit as your feet naturally swell in the heat or on long walks. Ensure the Velcro is high quality and the stitching around it is robust, as this area sees a lot of stress.

With these factors in mind, we were eager to see how the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals performed in our hands-on evaluation.

While the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals is our focus today, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions and Unboxing the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals

Upon opening the box, the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals present a familiar and reassuringly rugged aesthetic. The khaki colour scheme is versatile and outdoorsy, and the overall design is what you’d expect from a functional walking sandal. The three-point hook and loop strap system immediately stands out, promising a high degree of adjustability for a customised fit. Picking them up, their lightweight nature is the first thing you notice—a definite plus for travel and for reducing fatigue over a long day. The sole feels substantial yet flexible, and the tread pattern looks aggressive enough to handle varied terrain. The neoprene lining on the inside of the 100% polyester straps feels soft to the touch, a welcome feature designed to prevent chafing. The footbed has a moulded, textured surface intended to cradle the foot and provide grip. On paper, it has all the hallmarks of a competent and comfortable summer shoe, from the quick-drying lining to the Phylon cushioning. Our initial assessment was one of cautious optimism; it looked like a solid, no-frills contender in the budget-friendly walking sandal category.

A Deep Dive into Real-World Performance

A sandal’s true character isn’t revealed in the box, but on the pavement, the trail, and the beach. To put the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals to the test, we integrated them into our daily lives, wearing them for dog walks, trips to the shops, and long weekend strolls. Our goal was to assess them against the manufacturer’s claims of durability, comfort, and grip. What we discovered was a tale of two halves: initial promise overshadowed by significant, and frankly, disappointing, long-term failures.

Comfort and Fit: A Promising Start

Out of the box, the comfort is genuinely impressive. The combination of the lightweight Phylon midsole and the soft neoprene lining on the straps creates a pleasant wearing experience. The three-strap adjustment system is the star of the show here. We were able to achieve a snug, secure fit that eliminated any heel slip or forward sliding of the foot. One user noted they were “Very comfy lots of adjustment,” which perfectly matched our initial experience, especially for wider feet. The moulded foam footbed does a decent job of supporting the arch, and for the first few miles, the sandals feel like they could go the distance. The neoprene lining is particularly effective, drying quickly after a walk through damp grass and, crucially, preventing any of the hot spots or rubbing that can plague new footwear.

However, this initial comfort proved to be deceptive for some. One user reported that after just two walks in a hot country, their “feet soles were painful” because the “insoles had projections and jaggy parts.” While we didn’t experience jagged parts ourselves, we did notice the textured footbed could become abrasive over a very long walk, especially without socks. The key takeaway on comfort is that for short-term, casual use, the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals perform well. The design elements are sound in theory, but the execution and material quality raise questions about their suitability for prolonged, intensive use, especially in demanding conditions.

The Sizing Conundrum: A Game of Label Roulette

Before we could even properly assess long-term wear, we ran into a significant and frustrating hurdle: sizing. We ordered a UK size 10, which thankfully fit as expected. However, we were immediately struck by the sheer volume of user feedback highlighting severe sizing discrepancies. This isn’t a simple case of a brand running slightly small or large; it’s a systemic quality control issue. Users report ordering one size, only to receive a product with conflicting size information. One customer purchased a size 7, which had “Lable said UK 7, swing tag said eu 41, but on the sole under the size 7 sticker it said eu 40 which is a UK 6.” Another experienced the exact same issue: “ordered a UK 8 which should be a eur42 peeled the size 8 sticker stuck over a 41 on the sole.”

This is a fundamental failure that undermines the entire purchasing experience. Ordering footwear online requires a degree of trust in the manufacturer’s sizing standards. When a size 8 sticker is physically placed over a moulded size 41 (a UK 7), that trust is broken. It suggests a chaotic manufacturing and quality control process. For any potential buyer, this makes choosing the right size a complete gamble. Our advice would be to consider sizing up, but even then, based on the evidence, you can’t be certain what you will receive. This issue alone is a major red flag and makes it difficult to recommend purchasing them without the ability to try them on first, which negates the convenience of online shopping.

Durability and Construction: The Achilles’ Heel

Here is where the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals completely fall apart—both figuratively and, as many users have documented, literally. The initial impression of a sturdy sandal quickly evaporates with actual use. The list of failures we found echoed in user reports is extensive and points to systemic issues with materials and assembly. The most common complaint centres on the adhesive used. We began to see the sole delaminating from the upper near the front strap after about three weeks of moderate use. This was confirmed by numerous users, with one stating, “After wearing them for couple of months, not even intensively. The glue came off. What a joke.” Another reported the “Side sole coming away from front strap once opened packaging.”

The failures don’t stop at the glue. The sole material itself is alarmingly weak. A user who used them for daily dog walks found them “badly worn and one has a hole” after just a couple of months. Another noted that after only two weeks of light use, the “sole v weak… already showing signs of wear.” This indicates a sole compound that is simply not fit for purpose for a “walking sandal.” Stitching is another critical failure point. One holidaymaker found that when they tried them on, “the stitching holding the buckle on had undone so couldn’t use them.” The fabric around the hook and loop straps is also reported to deteriorate quickly. This isn’t about isolated defects; it’s a pattern of poor construction across multiple stress points. To market these as “Durable Summer Shoes” is, in our expert opinion, misleading. They are not built to withstand even light, regular activity, and for many, they fail within weeks or a few months, turning what seems like a bargain into a complete waste of money. You can see the full product details and user-submitted photos to judge for yourself.

What Other Users Are Saying

The consensus among the user base for the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals is overwhelmingly clear and aligns directly with our findings. While a small minority praise the initial comfort and fit, the vast majority of feedback is a chorus of disappointment regarding quality and longevity. Positive comments are brief, like one from a user with wide feet who found them “Very comfy lots of adjustment and has a great look.” This highlights the successful design of the strap system, which is a genuine positive.

However, these are drowned out by a sea of negative experiences that paint a consistent picture of failure. The recurring themes are poor adhesion, weak soles, and incorrect sizing. One user’s experience is tragically common: “I bought these sandals to wear in skiathos for two weeks! I am 12 days into my holiday and the right sandal is beginning to come apart!” Another sums up the core issue bluntly: “Comfortable, cheap… But this is after 5 months.. disappointed!” Many users received damaged goods right out of the box, with one stating, “Just received shipment today… Noticed corner already coming out. Where is quality control check.” This feedback is critical because it moves beyond subjective comfort and points to objective, verifiable product failures that a potential buyer must be aware of.

Alternatives to the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals

Given the significant issues with durability and sizing we identified, it is essential to consider some more reliable alternatives. Whether you’re looking for enhanced durability, a different style, or a more premium feel, there are excellent options available.

1. ZXWFOBEY Breathable Mesh Slip-On Sport Sandals

For those who prioritise maximum airflow and a more shoe-like protection, the ZXWFOBEY Breathable Mesh Slip-On Sport Sandals are an interesting alternative. Their design is a hybrid between a sandal and a water shoe, featuring a closed-toe construction with a highly breathable mesh upper. This makes them ideal for activities where you might stub your toes, like light river walking or exploring rocky beaches. They offer a different aesthetic and functional approach compared to the open-strap design of the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals. While they lack the infinite adjustability of hook and loop straps, their slip-on design with a toggle closure offers convenience. This is a great choice for someone looking for a versatile water-friendly shoe rather than a traditional open walking sandal.

2. Skechers Men’s Gander- LoudenSport Sandal

If your main takeaway from our review is the need for proven comfort and reliability, the Skechers Gander-Louden Sport Sandal should be at the top of your list. Skechers has built a formidable reputation for comfort, and this model is no exception. It typically features a memory foam footbed that provides superior, all-day cushioning that far surpasses what the Crete offers. While also utilising a synthetic upper and hook and loop straps, the build quality and materials from a reputable brand like Skechers are generally more consistent and durable. They may come at a slightly higher price point, but for those who plan to do any serious walking, the investment in a sandal known for its robust construction and best-in-class comfort is a very wise one.

3. Harssidanzar Mens Genuine Leather Sandals

For the buyer seeking a more classic, premium look and feel, the Harssidanzar Mens Genuine Leather Sandals present a compelling alternative. Moving away from the synthetic, sporty look of the Crete, these sandals offer the timeless appeal and durability of genuine leather. Leather straps and a leather-lined footbed provide a different kind of comfort that moulds to your foot over time. While perhaps not as suited for getting soaked on a beach as the synthetic Crete, they are perfect for summer city breaks, travel, and smart-casual wear. This option is for the user who values traditional materials and craftsmanship and is willing to invest in a sandal that offers style alongside comfort, representing a significant step up in quality and aesthetics.

Our Final Verdict on the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals

After extensive testing and careful consideration of widespread user feedback, we cannot recommend the Mountain Warehouse Crete Mens Sandals. While they present an attractive price and promise key features like a cushioned footbed, neoprene lining, and a highly adjustable fit, the reality of the product is deeply flawed. The initial comfort is quickly negated by catastrophic failures in durability, from soles peeling away to stitching unravelling after only minimal use. Added to this is the unacceptable lottery of their sizing system, where the size you order is often not the size you receive.

These sandals might suffice for someone needing a disposable pair for a single, very short holiday with minimal walking, but they are not a reliable investment for anyone seeking a durable summer shoe. The “value” proposition is a false economy, as you will likely be replacing them in a matter of weeks or months. For a truly dependable and comfortable walking sandal, we strongly advise investing a little more in a product from a more reputable brand, such as the Skechers or other alternatives mentioned. If you’re still curious despite the significant drawbacks, you can check the latest price and any potential updates here.