i looked and looked for shoes that could handle the wet and rough conditions of the Amazon rainforest.  having been there before i knew water proof hiking boots were not ideal as the mud gets stuck on the bottom of your shoes, plus every time you enter someone's home you have to take your shoes off, which can be a hassle if you are wearing boots.  so after long research i got Keens' Owyhee Water Sandals.  normally i'm a 6.5 but in these the 7 fit perfectly.

the Amazon locals all wear rubber sandals, but i was looking for something sturdy with more support as i'm not so used to the muddy trails and extra long walks.  i also brought sandals which i ended up giving away as my keens were perfect for the conditions.  i used them every day on our long hikes through dry, wet, muddy trails and across  rivers... they were very comfortable and dried really fast whenever i got them wet.  they were easy to take off upon arrival at anyone's home and just as easy to put back on.

i must admit i have a little crush on these shoes, they were my comfort buddies in a setting that can be quite uncomfortable.  i'm really glad i got them and highly recommend them :)