What to Look for in a Camp Shoe
Fit and comfort
As we’ve said before, comfort is the primary thing to look for in a camp shoe. Comfort can come from cushion, breathability, insulation, and more, but it’s important that your shoes fit comfortably to give your feet the break they deserve. We think it’s best to err on the roomy side for camp shoes in order for them to be the most comfortable (but not so big that they’re not functional or prone to giving blisters).
Support
Some camp shoes have support while others don’t, and some are designed specifically with support and cushion in mind. Typically, camp shoes that lack support are meant to be lighter and more packable for activities like backpacking. Heavier camp shoes often have more cushion and support and are great for car camping. If support is a top priority, there are many great options, you’ll just have to sacrifice a little weight in your pack.
Use Case
Think about what you plan to use your camp shoes for—yes, camping of course, but what kind? If you’re backpacking, you’ll need a shoe that is light and packable. Many backpackers also like to have camp sandals or shoes that are waterproof so they can be used for river crossings. If you’re camping in cold weather, insulation will be important. And if you want a shoe that’s functional at camp and stylish back in town, you can find that too. Think about your priorities and look for those features first.
Weight
Weight is an important factor in choosing camp shoes for many folks, especially if you have to carry all your gear to camp. If you’re car camping, weight is not as important and you can opt for a pair with other features. But if you’re a backpacker or thru-hiker, bikepacker, mountaineer, or you simply need to save weight and space, there are options that are both light and packable.
Versatility
Most camp shoes are versatile to at least some extent, but some are more so than others. Often, shoes designed with a very specific purpose (like ultralight backpacking or winter mountaineering), will serve that purpose very well but not be as versatile. Other options, like a durable pair of camp sandals or slipper shoes can be worn for multiple activities.
Durability
We want all of our outdoor gear to be durable, and that’s one of the top criteria we look for in testing. But sometimes durability has to be sacrificed in order for other priorities to be met (like weight savings or budget). Some of the most durable camp shoes in our test are on the heavier side. If durability is important to you, know that you’ll probably have to sacrifice some weight to get it. If a lightweight camp shoe is most important, they likely won’t be as durable, so it’s worth keeping that in mind when you wear them.
Packability
If you’re packing your gear into camp, you want a pair of camp shoes that can easily fit in your pack. Look for shoes with a low-profile and lightweight design. Car campers don’t need to worry about this quite as much, but it’s still a helpful feature to keep in mind.
Breathability
If you want your feet to air out at camp, it will be important to choose a camp shoe that’s breathable. It can be very detrimental to your feet to leave them in wet shoes or boots, and it’s important to let them air out and dry out when possible. Most camp shoes with insulation will not be particularly breathable, and it’s often ideal to opt for sandals in this case. With many of the sandals in our review, they can be worn with socks for warmth when needed.
Traction
Your camp shoes are going to be worn outdoors, and so at least some sort of traction is ideal. (The only shoes in our test with essentially no traction are the down booties, but those are meant for a specific use.) If you’re going to use your shoes for longer walks around camp or even short hikes or river crossings, look for a pair with good soles with grippy lugs.
