Tread Labs Salinas vs. Aetrex Marz Adjustable
Choosing the perfect sandals for both comfort and style can be challenging. This blog compares the Tread Labs Salinas Sandal and the Aetrex Marz Adjustable Sandal, highlighting their design, fit, durability, maintenance, and value.
The Basics: TL;DR ---
- Style and Fit. Both have adjustable straps. Salinas use aluminum buckles; Marz use Velcro. The Salinas offer firmer support and moisture-wicking footbeds.
- Durability. The Salinas, with polyurethane footbeds, last longer and are resoleable. Marz’s EVA midsoles will wear out faster.
- Versatility. Both are water-friendly with rubber soles. The Salinas are more versatile for outdoor activities and evenings out.
- Value and Maintenance. Both are low-maintenance and antimicrobial. Salinas is machine-washable. Salinas ($130) offers long-term durability and easy maintenance. Marz ($119.95) is slightly more affordable but may not provide the same long-lasting arch support.
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Overall Choice. The Salinas sandals stand out for durability and versatility, while the Marz offer affordability and a distinct style.
Need To Know ---
These supportive sandals offer water-friendly designs and durable rubber soles. The Salinas stand out for their superior durability, machine-washable design, and versatile style, priced at $130. The Marz, priced at $119.95, provide cushioned comfort with a bolder look but less durability. Salinas offer better long-term value, while Marz are better for less-frequent, casual wear.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Aetrex Marz Adjustable and Tread Labs Salinas sandals?
This chart shows Aetrex Marz Adjustable (left) head-to-head with Tread Labs Women's Salinas (right). This comparison is based on information taken from each company’s website and our own observation.
| Aetrex Marz Adjustable |
Tread Labs Salinas |
|
| Company History |
Aetrex was established in 1946 and has grown into a global leader in comfort and wellness footwear. Known for integrating advanced technology with stylish designs, Aetrex focuses on delivering superior arch support for overall foot health. Their innovative approach includes orthotic solutions and memory foam footbeds, making their footwear a preferred choice for those seeking cushioned comfort and style. |
Tread Labs was founded in 2015 by Mark Paigen, the creator of Chaco sandals. Leveraging his 30 years of experience and the biomechanical principles that made Chaco a favorite, Paigen launched Tread Labs to craft exceptionally comfortable sandals. His goal was to utilize everything he learned to develop footwear that stands out for its unparalleled comfort and support. |
| Product Description (from website) | "Experience all day comfort in the water-friendly Marz! These strappy sport sandals feature arch support, hook & loop closures, and a padded heel to support each step. Put on the Marz and get going because your next adventure is just a step away!" |
"The 'Yes' Sandal. |
| Best Use | Casual, Everyday Use | Casual, Everyday Use, Light Trail |
| Style/Adjustment | 2 adjustable hook-and-loop (Velcro) straps closures with a zig-zag strap pattern. | Dual strap design with 2 adjustable aluminum buckles. |
|
Arch Support 1 = Flat 5 = High Arch Support |
4 |
5 Contoured firm arch support with a moderate heel cup. |
| Footbed Surface | EVA | Microfiber suede |
| Midsole | Aetrex UltraSky™ (Molded EVA) | Ultra-Lightweight Polyurethane |
| Outsole |
Dual density rubber (softer under heel and forefoot). |
Durable rubber, 13% recycled content. All Tread Labs sandals are resoleable. |
| Upper | Synthetic (faux) leather |
3D knit (made from 100% recycled polyester) |
| Closure | 2 hook-and-loop straps (1 fold-over, 1 overlap) |
2 aluminum buckles |
| Durability |
3 EVA is less durable than polyurethane. It will compress and wear out faster. |
5 Polyurethane and rubber are durable and long lasting. |
| Weight |
32 oz/pr |
15.4 oz/pr |
| Break-in Time | Nearly none | Nearly none |
| Water-friendliness | Marz Adjustable sandals use all synthetic materials making them fully water-friendly. | Salinas sandals are 100% water friendly and can be machine-washed. |
| Fit/Sizing |
US Gender Specific Sizing Whole/Half Sizes Women's: 5/5.5, 6/6.5, 7, 7.5/8, 8.5, 9/9.5, 10, 10.5/11, 11.5/12 |
US Gender Specific Sizing Whole Sizes Women's: 6-11 (whole sizes) |
| Fit Guarantee |
Aetrex offers free returns with a 30-day return policy on new sandals. |
Tread Labs provides a 30-day return policy on new sandals with free return shipping. |
| Price | $119.95 |
$130 |
| Shipping |
Standard shipping (UPS) = $5.95. Free shipping for 'Aetrex Access' members. |
USPS First Class Shipping (2-3 Days) = Free |
| Website |
Should I buy Aetrex Marz Adjustable sandals or Tread Labs Salinas sandals?
Finding sandals that blend comfort with style can be quite a task. This blog compares two standout options: the Aetrex Marz Adjustable Sandal and the Tread Labs Salinas Sandal. Both sandals are known for their orthopedic support, but they offer distinct features. Learn more about women's orthopedic sandals, here.
We will explore their design, comfort, durability, and overall value to help you decide which one aligns best with your needs. Whether you favor the cushioned support of Aetrex or the eco-friendly design of Tread Labs, this comparison will guide your choice.
Fit
Aetrex Marz Adjustable Sandals and the Tread Labs Salinas Sandals are both sandals with arch support that feature two adjustable straps. The Marz uses hook-and-loop closures, while the Salinas uses aluminum buckles for a secure fit. The Marz sandals have a higher stack height and higher drop height (learn more about 'stack height' and 'drop height'), resembling a moderate 'wedge' sandal. The footbeds provide a softer feel with EVA foam. These EVA footbeds can feel clammy in hot weather, however.
The polyurethane footbeds of the Salinas sandals provide more robust, consistent arch support and feature microfiber suede top covers for wicking moisture. The recycled polyester straps on the Salinas sandals are also incredibly soft, given them a buttery feel. The Salinas sandals are available in whole sizes, 6-11. While the Marz sandals offers a larger size range (5-12), the size breakdown is somewhat confusing.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OMG. I'm in love...
"OMG. I'm in love with these sandals. Now I'm buying as gifts for my wife and hopefully my mom as well. My have super picky feet, long and narrow, as well as sensitive to rubbing. The materials on these are like buttery goodness. No chaffing or rubbing raw. I'm looking forward to wearing all summer. Plus arch support? Really? Sign me up - Yes, please!"
— Jackie T., Verified Buyer (Women's Salinas Sandal Review)
The Tread Labs Salinas has a shorter stack height while still providing better long-term arch support.
Durability
The Tread Labs Salinas sandals excel in durability with their high-quality polyurethane midsoles and resilient rubber soles. Ultralight polyurethane ensures long-lasting arch support, while still providing a cushioned feel. The Salinas sandals are also resoleable, extending their lifespan significantly.
On the other hand, the Aetrex Marz Adjustable sandals, while comfortable, use EVA midsoles that will wear out faster and can compress over time. The hook-and-loop closures and synthetic upper materials are less durable under heavy use compared to the Salinas. Overall, the Salinas Sandal offers superior durability and longevity.
Maintenance
Both the Tread Labs Salinas Sandal and the Aetrex Marz Adjustable Sandal are made with synthetic materials, making them fully water-friendly and requiring minimal maintenance. The Salinas sandals are designed to be fully machine-washable, adding to their ease of care.
Both models feature antimicrobial treatments: the Marz has an unspecified antimicrobial applied to the straps, while the Salinas uses PURE, a silver-based antimicrobial, on the footbed top cover. This ensures both pairs stay fresh and hygienic with little effort.
Versatility
Both the Aetrex Marz Adjustable Sandal and the Tread Labs Salinas Sandal offer water-friendly designs and durable rubber soles. The soles on the Salinas sandals however have a more aggressive tread pattern to give them better traction on uneven terain. The Salinas sandals features a lightweight, sporty build with modern styling, making them ideal for outdoor adventures and evening outings.
In contrast, the Aetrex Marz provides cushioned support with a slightly higher drop height. The heavier weight of these sandals compromises their versatility and makes them less suitable for longer walks or hikes. The minimal tread pattern on the Marz soles, make these sandals more suitable for casual use in urban environments. Overall, the Salinas' balance of sporty and stylish elements gives them an edge in versatility.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The sandals I’ve been looking for!!!
"The sandals I’ve been looking for! Extremely comfortable and can wear in water!!!!"
— Patricia H., Verified Buyer (Women's Salinas Sandal Review)
Value
Style
The Bottom Line
Both the Tread Labs sandals and the Aetrex sandals are orthopedic sandals for women, that offer contoured arch support with modern styling. The Salinas sandals stand out for their superior durability, robust long-lasting arch support, and resoleable design, making them a long-term investment. Their lightweight and versatile design transitions seamlessly from outdoor adventures to casual outings.
The Marz, with their cushioned EVA footbeds and bold design, are okay for casual wear but their EVA arch may compress over time compromising long-term support. They will also likely require more frequent replacements due to less durable materials. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your priorities for durability, style, and specific foot support needs.
Mark Paigen
Mark has always believed exceptional footwear can change lives. He's been in the footwear industry for over 30 years, working with podiatrists, pedorthists, foot care experts, and footwear makers. Mark started Chaco sandals in 1989 and developed a game-changing sport sandal that delivered comfort and durability. After Chaco sold in 2009, Mark ultimately started Tread Labs to continue transforming people's footwear so they can walk better, feel better, live better.
