Hi Jenn. Good question. Everyone has good points, here and in past posts on the subject. Leather not the greatest in cave pools though I read that some guides rent footwear for a few $, keeping your hiking boots from taking days to dry. We made our choice a few months ago. My wife and I both picked up Keens and love them. Very comfortable,dead on secure, and fun shoe. This is what they are made to do. Well worth at least a look see. Tikal, Cayo, AC, we`re right behind you. Let us know how it went.