Weve all felt the sweet relief that comes when feet are finally released from their sweaty, high-performance foot prisons. Because they’re made to be comfortable, camp shoes offer a soothing antidote. On many adventures and expeditions, camp shoes should be considered an essential piece of gear.

　　Historically, thru-hikers and other adventurists have simply repurposed pre-existing models of comfortable footwear as functional camp shoes. Many of these options, like Crocs Classic Clogs, werent originally designed for outdoor excursions. However, people in search of good camp shoes identified them as an excellent makeshift choice.

　　Today, many footwear companies are now making purpose-built camp shoes. Because there are more great options available than ever before, nows a great time to pick up a pair of camp shoes that make you say “ahhhh” every time you put them on.

　　There are a few key characteristics you should look for in a camp shoe. A good camp shoe finds the ideal balance between usability, breathability, weight, and waterproofing.

　　We’ve broken up this list into specific categories to help you identify the best camp shoe for your needs. For more information about camp shoes, check out our comparison chart, buyer’s guide, and FAQ at the end of this article.

　　Editors Note: On March 22, 2024, we refreshed this guide, adding the light but toasty Exped Camp Slippers and the Xero Aqua Cloud sandals. The Camp Slippers will have you happily stargazing during frigid high country nights, and the Aqua Clouds are there when your feet need to air out at the end of a long day and double as protection during creek crossings.

　　The Best Camp Shoes of 2024 Best Overall Camp Shoes: Teva ReEmber Slip-On Best Budget Camp Shoes: Crocs Classic Clogs Best Camp Shoes for Backpacking: Vivobarefoot Ultra III Best Recovery Sandal: OOFOS OOriginal Sandals Best Down Booties: Feathered Friends Down Booties Best Overall Camp Shoes Teva ReEmber Slip-On Specs Weight About 1 lb. per pair Insulated Yes Waterproof No, water-resistant upper

　　Pros Easy to clean Collapsible heel Warm Cons Not very compressible Not waterproof Austin Beck-Doss Car camping is all about luxuries. The Teva ReEmber Moc ($80) is a luxury that becomes difficult to go without as soon as you’ve tried them on. This unique shoe is an innovative combination of an urban sneaker and a mini sleeping bag. This part slipper, part shoe is absolutely perfect for brief hikes, hanging out around the campfire, or even running errands about town.

　　Since these durable and insulating shoes were released, they have quickly become the well-loved standard in campground footwear. Modern van-dwellers are rarely spotted without a pair of the Teva ReEmber Mocs on their feet.

　　Notably, a collapsible heel counter allows the Mocs to be worn as easy-on camp slippers or secure semi-active shoes. With the heel counter in the up position, the Mocs easily handle a short day hike or a non-technical approach to the crag. When the heel counter is down, the Mocs turn into casual slides that are great for checking the mailbox or relaxing in camp.

　　The microfiber insulation provides noticeable warmth but never feels oppressively hot. As a defense against the harsh bite of cold floors in the morning, the Mocs are more than capable of keeping your toes warm and happy.

　　Aesthetically, the Mocs have a sleek and simple look thats perfectly suitable for roaming about in public. They’re easy to clean, and a rubber outsole is hardy enough for most nontechnical paths and trails.

　　The Teva ReEmber Mocs are probably not the best camp shoes for backpackers and thru-hikers. They dont compress very well, theyre a little heavy, and they’re not waterproof. But for car camping, the Teva Ember Moc is unbeatable.

　　$80 at REI Mens$55 at evo Womens$47 at Amazon Mens$29 at Amazon Womens Best Budget Camp Shoes Crocs Classic Clogs Specs Weight About 14 oz. per pair Insulated No Waterproof No, but Crocs dont absorb water

　　Pros Durable Easy to put on and take off Heel straps add versatility Super comfortable with or without socks Plenty of color options Cons Not very compressible May be a bit wide for those with narrow feet Austin Beck-Doss Most people are familiar with Crocs. Since 2002, Crocs has been making variations of its injection-molded EVA clogs. Though the brands Classic Clogs ($50) was originally developed as a boating shoe, it has since amassed a large following with backpackers and other outdoor recreation groups as the ultimate camp shoe.

　　On any thru-hiking trail, a pair of Crocs dangling off of the outside of someone’s pack is a common sight. The Classic Clog is lightweight, durable, and fully waterproof. If the Crocs get wet, simply wipe the water off with a rag or towel. Boom — instantly dry.

　　Crocs come with a heel strap thats easily tucked out of the way when not in use. With the heel strap engaged, Crocs can easily handle short hikes without falling off. Without the heel strap in place, Crocs become a convenient source of slide-in foot protection.

　　Though Croc wearers often become the target of fashion-related jokes, we think they look pretty cool — especially when worn with pride. Crocs come in tons of different colors, and they are also available with an insulated liner.

　　Though many brands have developed high-tech camp shoes with all sorts of flashy features, the truth is that a pair of Crocs Classic Clogs remains hard to beat. And at just $50 per pair, they’re an excellent value.

　　Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at Amazon Best Camp Shoes for Backpacking Vivobarefoot Ultra III Bloom Specs Weight Around 1 lb. per pair Insulated No Waterproof No, but the material does not absorb water

　　Pros Light and compressible Good traction Comfortable Cons Expensive Not very supportive Austin Beck-Doss Designed for watersports but adopted by the thru-hiking community, the Vivobarefoot Ultra III Bloom ($120) is the ultimate shoe for overnight backpacking.

　　These unique-looking shoes are everything that lightweight backpackers need in a camp shoe. The shoes are easily compressible, so you can stuff them in your pack if you want to. The Ultra 3s have an upper that is made entirely of EVA, an elastic polymer very similar to rubber.

　　Fully waterproof and breathable, this honeycomb-patterned upper makes the Ultra 3s a true barefoot shoe. The EVA fully conforms to the shape and movements of your feet. When you’re wearing these, you’ll hardly feel them on your feet.

　　Elastic bungee-style laces allow the Ultra IIIs to tighten and loosen with ease. Also, the laces don’t absorb much water and dry quickly. Speaking of moisture, you’ll never have to worry about these shoes becoming saturated. With a quick wipe-down to remove surface water, they’ll be fully dry.

　　The Vivobarefoot Ultra III Bloom is built on a zero-drop platform and doesnt have a cushioned outsole. For people who are accustomed to well-cushioned shoes, the Ultra III will take some getting used to. Because the midsole and the outsole are the same things on this shoe, you’ll notice increased proprioception and ground feel.

　　Beneath the outsole, a clever tread pattern keeps up the hexagonal theme of the entire shoe. A strategic mixture of varied tread depths provides ample grip on a wide variety of surfaces. On gravel trails, paved streets, and even wet rock, the Ultra III offers reliable traction — an impressive trait for a “camp shoe.”

　　At $120, these camp shoes are more expensive than some other options on this list. However, at 8 ounces per shoe, theyre well worth the investment, especially for lightweight backpackers. After a long day of crushing miles on the trail, these will feel like heaven on your feet.

　　The Vivobarefoot Ultra III Blooms are wildly popular, so snag a pair while you can. Mens and womens styles are available.

　　$114 at Amazon Mens$114 at Amazon Womens Best Recovery Sandal OOFOS OOriginal Sandals Specs Weight 12.8 oz. per pair (mens size 10) Insulated No Waterproof No, but these wont absorb water

　　Pros Super comfortable Absorbs impact and lessens recovery time Durable Provides adequate traction Cons Foam becomes less cushy with repeated use Not great for walking or hiking Austin Beck-Doss At the end of a strenuous day of activity, it’s wise to give your feet the gift of recovery footwear. With a super-soft footbed that cushions your foot and leg joints, the OOFOS OOriginal Sandals ($60) help relieve soreness and prepare you for your next hike or run.

　　Though at first glance these sandals look simple and unassuming, OOFOS are not your average poolside flip-flops. The brands proprietary foam, called OOfoam, is designed to absorb shock. In the company’s own words, “OOFOS absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foam footwear.” A unique arch support system claims to “reduce exertion by 47%.” These figures were taken from a 2018 University of Virginia study, which assessed the effectiveness of OOFOS sandals.

　　Traction is not the primary focus of these sandals. Though theres decent tread on the outsole, the OOFOS OOriginal Sandals aren’t great for walking around on slick and loose terrain. The sandals hold up well, but the foam does become flat and deflated after a few months of frequent use.

　　For those seeking an ultra-comfortable camp shoe, the OOFOS is at the top of its class. The demands of long backpacking or trail running days can be hard on the feet, and these sandals can help lessen recovery time. We especially recommend the OOFOS OOriginal Sandals to anyone intent on taking good care of their feet.

　　$60 at REI$56 at Amazon Best Down Booties Feathered Friends Down Booties Specs Weight 9.3 oz. (per bootie in a mens medium) Insulated Yes, 800+ fill goose down Waterproof No

　　Pros Super warm Lightweight Compressible Removable foam insoles Hardy enough to walk short distances Cons Expensive Will wear out quickly if you walk in them often Austin Beck-Doss For cold-weather adventures, a plush pair of down booties can be the key to keeping your toes warm all through the night. Think of down booties as sleeping bags for your feet — insulation is their only job.

　　With ethically sourced 800-fill down and a soft inner liner, the Feathered Friends down booties ($119) ensure warm feet even when the temperature drops well below freezing. Mostly, these booties arent designed to be worn while strolling around, but they come with a fairly hardy shell that holds up to short walks through camp.

　　Wear these booties to bed, and you won’t have to take them off when you get up to walk outside and pee. But remember, they aren’t made to handle repeated abrasion. As Feathered Friends says, “They’re built for warmth, not a marathon.”

　　Removable foam insoles provide a little extra support when you want it but also add some extra weight that many backpackers will want to leave behind. The booties are highly compressible and easy to pack away, though they dont come with a stuff sack upon purchase.

　　The Feathered Friends down booties are certainly a bit pricey. But for those willing to pay the price for warm toes, these booties won’t let you down. For winter camping, they’re beyond worth their 9.3-ounce weight.

　　Check Price at Feathered Friends Best of the Rest Exped Camp Slipper Specs Weight 4.8 oz. (size Medium) Insulated Yes Waterproof No, water-resistant upper

　　Pros Extremely lightweight Durable soles Comfortable on skin Ankle cuffs keep grime out Cons Only four sizes available Austin Beck-Doss If you’re packing light and are low on space, the Exped Camp Slipper ($60) is a solid choice. At 4.8 oz (size Medium), you won’t even notice the addition to your pack, and they fold up so small you can fit them into a small pocket.

　　Over dirt and granite, the 4mm abrasion-resistant soles held up exceptionally well, and provided adequate grip when we scrambled up an outcrop for sunset (not that we’d recommend them as an approach shoe). They’re extremely flexible, providing a barefoot feel, and the insole is comfortable against the skin if you decide to lose the socks and go barefoot.

　　The cuff around the ankle serves well to keep the feet warm, making them a great three-season camp shoe option. The cuff also helps keep rocks, sand, and dirt from getting in. With a quick wipe to clean the soles, you can wear them inside your tent.

　　After a long hike, roomy slippers are ideal, and the space inside the Exped Camp Slipper is certainly freeing. Because they only come in four sizes, however, the fit can be a bit tricky. The XL size fit was comparable to a US mens 12. We’d recommend trying them on in person if possible, or contacting Exped to get expert sizing advice.

　　Overall, we think these camp slippers are ideal for hikers and backcountry enthusiasts who like to keep it light and might experience colder evenings. The price is a bit steep, but the durability more than makes up for it. They’re on our list of best camp shoes for a reason.

　　$55 at REI$55 at Amazon Xero Shoes Aqua Cloud Specs Weight 5.9 oz. (size 9) Insulated No Waterproof No

　　Pros Chevron tread Extremely versatile (not just a camp shoe) Lightweight Cons Not ideal for those with sensitive feet Limited to warmer weather Austin Beck-Doss Xero Shoes has more than one option that could make this list of best camp shoes, but the Aqua Cloud ($50) has some features that set it apart. Billed as a ‘Water-Sports and Activity Sandal’, the Aqua Cloud is more than capable of taking you beyond camp.

　　Weighing in at 5.2 oz (size 9), you can cram them into a pack or strap them to the outside with ease. The straps are adjustable for those with unique foot shapes, and the strap design manages to eliminate the discomfort of traditional thong-style sandals. The foam sole is very comfortable and maintains grip when wet.

　　One of the best features of these sandals is that they float! Theyre ideal for through-hikers who need to remove hiking shoes for river crossings or to bathe in a creek or lake. The chevron tread pattern provides great grip on slippery surfaces, and you can easily tighten the straps to wear them swimming.

　　Obviously, these are ideal for warm-weather camping. If you’re a minimalist aficionado, you can even wear them for light hikes or side quests once you’ve reached base camp for the evening. Xero sandals are known to last quite a while, so you can stash these away for seasonal use for years to come.

　　Despite their seasonal limitations, these sandals made our list of the best camp shoes for their superior versatility. Don’t be surprised if you see hikers wearing them on milder sections of the trail. They can do it all.

　　$50 at REI Mens$50 at REI Womens$50 at Amazon Mens$55 at Amazon Womens HOKA Restore TC Specs Weight About 11.3 oz. per pair Insulated No Waterproof No, but absorbs very little water

　　Pros Lightweight Soft and supportive to soothe the feet Rockered outsole for anatomical support Waterproof Cons Pricey Not compressible Austin Beck-Doss If you find your joints to be especially tired and achy after long running or hiking sessions, slipping into these plush beauties from HOKA may offer significant relief. Though they’re semi-bulky and perhaps not ideal for lightweight backpacking, the HOKA Restore TCs ($110) will surely be worth their weight to those who need a little extra recovery boost.

　　This is one of the most supportive options on this list, which is quite an impressive statement for a pair of shoes with a thin mesh upper. A soft UVA footbed soothes the feet, while stiffer rockered midsoles and outsoles offer structural support.

　　A closed-toe design offers more protection against stubbed toes when you have to leave the tent to pee in the middle of the night. Plus, the elastic mesh upper keeps the shoe in place, enabling short runs and rocky scrambles. We like how the design allows your feet to stretch out and breathe — with or without socks.

　　For such comfort-forward footwear, the HOKA Restore TCs are impressively durable. Semi-deep tread offers reasonable traction for hanging out at home or wandering around the campsite. At a price point of $110, these slip-ons arent cheap. Their value comes in the form of well-recovered feet.

　　Check Price at HOKA Aleader Mesh Slip On Specs Weight About 1 lb., 4 oz. per pair Insulated No Waterproof No, quick-dry mesh

　　Pros Affordable Durable outsole Good traction on wet surfaces Easy to put on and take off Capable of active use Cons Rocks and gravel can get stuck in the mesh Not as breathable as other options Austin Beck-Doss This excellent camp shoe is one of the more traditional-looking footwear options on this list. Because its a full shoe rather than a flip-flop or sandal, it offers enough foot protection to roam around in.

　　Drain holes and a thin mesh upper material ensure that the Aleader Mesh Slip-Ons ($28) dry quickly after a thorough soaking. Though the dry time of these shoes is impressively short, they still take quite a bit longer to dry than some of the other options on this list — like Crocs, for example.

　　These shoes really thrive as water shoes. They’re a handy tool to deploy during water crossings, as their water grain outsole ensures exceptional traction on wet surfaces.

　　Though theyre not fully compressible, these shoes can fold decently well to take up less space inside a pack. A Solyte midsole is soft enough to feel soothing at the end of the long day but firm enough to hold up well in the long term.

　　The Aleader Mesh Slip-Ons are a top choice for those in need of a camp shoe capable of exploration and activity. While we don’t necessarily recommend running or backpacking while wearing these, they can handle a lot more active use than many of the camp shoe options on this list. At just $28, they’re affordable too.

　　$27 at Amazon Mens$30 at Amazon Womens Chaco Ramble Puff Specs Weight 17.9 oz. per pair (mens size 10) Waterproof No, water-resistant upper Insulated Yes

　　Pros Affordable Durable outsole Good traction on wet surfaces Easy to put on and take off Capable of active use Cons Rocks and gravel can get stuck in the mesh Not as breathable as other options Austin Beck-Doss The Chaco Ramble Puff ($85) is the perfect shoe for cold-weather camping in the dry season. We primarily used this shoe while car camping near high-elevation climbing areas in Wyoming, and it offered the ideal combination of insulation and practical wearability.

　　The Ramble Puff is available in both men’s and women’s styles. The most eye-catching feature is the quilted and insulated upper. In chilly temps all the way down to about 30 degrees F, these shoes kept our toes warm and happy — especially when paired with a thick pair of wool socks. Thanks to the addition of a plush fleece lining, the Ramble Puff is a bonafide sleeping bag for your foot.

　　Water-resistant ripstop nylon helps to keep moisture out, but these shoes are definitely not fully waterproof. Chaco has outfitted the women’s with their signature LUVSEAT contoured footbed, which provides ample arch support. The rubber outsole, while not grippy or supportive enough for sustained hiking, is plenty capable on short walks around camp.

　　Overall, the Chaco Ramble Puff is an impressive addition to the brands increasingly diverse lineup. For the shoulder season car camping enthusiast, we highly recommend these warm and practical shoes.

　　Check Mens Price at REICheck Womens Price at REICheck Mens Price at Amazon Mens$65 at Amazon Womens Dansko Kane Clogs Specs Weight 1 lb. 1 oz. (Pair, mens size 10) Insulated No Waterproof EVA upper is non permeable, but water can get in through vent holes

　　Pros Very supportive Comfortable Durable Versatile Cons Heavier and more expensive than other foam clogs Austin Beck-Doss Danskos are the go-to shoe for folks who work on their feet. Nurses, teachers, and baristas swear by them. These industry trends say more than any single online review ever could: the Dansko Kane clogs ($85) are the OG antidote for sore feet.

　　The secret sauce here is Danskos thick and cushy footbed. With an ergonomic arch and plenty of shock absorption, these clogs cradle the contours of the foot like a dream. Other key features include a durable EVA upper and a grippy outsole that reliably sticks to wet and slick surfaces.

　　Weve been testing a single pair of the Kane Clogs for well over a year — mostly for household errands and short walks to the hardware store. Its pure bliss to slip them on after returning home from a full day of climbing or trail running. Theyre equal parts practical and cozy.

　　The Kane Clog is essentially a beefed-up and better-looking version of the Classic Croc. Unlike Crocs, however, the Kane has a capable outsole and far more cushion. If weight is your concern, Crocs are a few ounces lighter — and $35 cheaper — per pair. However, if comfort and recovery are the priority, the Kane wins by a mile.

　　We recommend the Dansko Kane clogs for car camping, cragging, and household chores. For backpacking, go with something lighter and more compressible.

　　Check Price at REI$85 at Amazon Camp Shoe Comparison Chart

　　Waking up in camp sporting the Teva ReEmber Mocs; (photo/Eric Phillips) Though the exact figures are unknown, the combined GearJunkie staff has spent over five thousand nights camping — and thats a conservative estimate. To create this buyers guide, we compiled our collective experience and tested dozens of camp shoe styles. In our search, we aimed to find and test shoes that every outdoors person could enjoy — from luxury-minded car campers to ounce-counting ultralight backpackers.

　　We recognize that footwear can make or break a camping trip. After a long day of adventure, the simple pleasure of slipping on something warm and reliable is euphoric.

　　While testing, we paid close attention to a number of different factors, including comfort, warmth, durability, and weight. Weve been testing camp shoes for a number of years, and while outdoor equipment wont last forever, weve had good results in getting many seasons of use out of the options weve recommended on this list.

　　Finally, the testing doesnt stop here, and as new camp shoes hit the market well be chucking them in our cars and backpacks ensuring that our lineup is as fresh as can be.

　　Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Camp Shoes Good camp shoes give you something to look forward to at the end of the day. Once you’ve identified the right pair, they’ll likely become an essential and non-negotiable part of your camping kit. That said, its important to understand the differences between the available options before deciding to make a purchase.

　　In this buyer’s guide, we cover comfort, weight, packability, support, durability, value, and other important factors for those looking to purchase a pair of camp shoes.

　　Comfort Comfort is an important consideration for any piece of gear you use regularly. Camp shoes offer respite after removing a sweaty and stiff pair of hiking boots, trail runners, climbing shoes, or other active footwear. For this reason, camp shoe comfort should be top priority.

　　While all of the shoes on this list are designed to be comfortable, certain shoes like the OOFOS OOriginal Sandals are made with a super-soft footbed to ease joint stiffness and maximum recovery. Other options, like the Teva ReEmber Mocs, offer a layer of insulation — which translates to comfort in cold weather.

　　Camp shoes are made for chilling; (photo/Eric Phillips) Weight Packability For backpackers and thru-hikers, the importance of weight and packability is paramount. Some of the camp shoes on this list are lighter and more packable than others. The Feathered Friends Down Booties can pack down into tiny balls, and they only weigh 9 ounces per pair.

　　However, as is usually the case, these booties lose some durability as a tradeoff. For backpacking camp shoes that dont compress, hanging them on the outside of your pack is an option too. Some backpackers even keep small items inside the shoes to maximize space and utility.

　　Support Generally, camp shoes arent the most supportive shoes. They’re designed for recovery and comfort, not support and performance.

　　Still, some camp shoes are more important than others. If you plan to also use your camp shoes in the gym or while hiking, its wise to choose some that are supportive enough to handle more than just hanging out. On this list, the Aleader Mesh Slip-Ons offer moderate support and good traction.

　　Durability A durable camp shoe should last many years, especially because it likely won’t accumulate nearly as many miles as active shoes will. Some camp shoes are more durable than others, which makes durability an important piece of a shoe’s overall value.

　　Some shoes on this list, like the Aleader Mesh Slip-Ons, have dense and sticky soles that hold up in the long haul. Other shoes, like the HOKA Restore TC, have very soft footbeds that tend to flatten over time.

　　Value Shoes on this list range in price from $20 to well over $100 per pair. Its important to determine your budget as you consider which camp shoes to purchase.

　　Often, a shoe’s value comes from more than just its price tag. If a shoe fills a tricky void in your kit, consider that to be a form of good value. Shoes that fit well into your outdoor adventure kit and can also be worn at home or while running errands.

　　Car Camping vs. Backpacking When car camping, weight, and space aren’t likely to be major concerns. For car camping, we recommend the Teva ReEmber Mocs because their limited packability won’t be an issue when you have access to a car.

　　When backpacking, though, the ounces add up, so you’ll likely want lightweight camp shoes that don’t take up too much space. The Vivobarefoot Ultra III shoes are light and easy to squeeze into an already stuffed pack.

　　Talking shop after a full day out; (photo/Eric Phillips) FAQ Are camp shoes necessary? That depends. Camp shoes offer major relief at the end of the day when the activewear comes off and the comfortable gear goes on. In conditions where active shoes or boots get wet or sweaty during the day, having a pair of dry camp shoes is a crucial part of good foot care.

　　We recommend a good pair of camp shoes as an addition to any kit, for backpackers to car campers, and everyone in between. For those with achy joints and tired feet, camp shoes may be non-negotiable and totally essential.

　　Should I bring camp shoes backpacking? We recommend it. After hiking all day with a heavy pack, you’ll be immensely glad to have camp shoes. Also, feet often become wet or sweaty while backpacking, and camp shoes offer ventilation and a relaxed fit, which will help your feet air out. Camp shoes are an important defense against feet issues like blisters, fungus, rashes, and more.

　　Crocs vs. OOFOS: Which should I choose? These two camp shoe options are similar but not exactly the same. Crocs have a slightly hardier outsole and include a heel strap, which helps them stay on during short walks or nontechnical hikes.

　　OOFOS OOriginal Sandals soothe aches and pains, but their plush footbed does tend to flatten over time. Also, the OOFOS OOriginals lack a heel strap and fall off more easily when walking around.

　　Do I need waterproof camp shoes? It’s good to have waterproof camp shoes. Wet camp shoes aren’t much help when you want to change out of wet active shoes at the end of the day. For this reason, we recommend waterproof camp shoes. Many of the options on this list are solid EVA or soft foam.

　　These materials dont absorb water, and they simply wipe dry if they happen to get any water on them. Dry, comfortable shoes are a luxury that youll need and thoroughly deserve after a day of adventuring.

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