Expert Outdoor Gear Reviews & Buying Guides
After a long hike, the first thing you want to do is take off your boots. But walking around camp in socks on dirty ground isn't practical. A good pair of camp shoes lets your feet breathe, protects them from rocks and thorns, and packs small enough to toss in your backpack.
We researched owner feedback across the top camp shoe listings to find the models that consistently deliver comfort, quick-drying performance, and packability. Our picks cover three needs: a classic outdoor sandal, a slip-on for easy on/off, and a budget option that works at the campground and on the trail.
| Award | Product | Price | Why We Picked It |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Best Overall | Chaco Z/Cloud 2 | ~$100 | Adjustable strap, durable, comfortable all day |
| 💰 Best Budget | Crocs Classic Clog | ~$35 | Quick-drying, slip-on, ultra-light |
| ⭐ Premium Pick | Birkenstock Arizona EVA | ~$45 | Contoured footbed, water-friendly |
Quick-drying. Camp shoes get wet — stream crossings, morning dew, washing dishes. Look for water-friendly materials that dry fast.
Packability. Soft shoes fold flat. Rigid sandals take up more space but offer more support. Consider pack weight.
Footbed support. Flat flip-flops offer no arch support. Look for a contoured footbed if you'll walk around camp for hours.
Traction. Wet rocks and muddy campsites require grippy soles. Avoid smooth-soled shoes around water.
| Product | Price | Weight | Material | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chaco Z/Cloud 2 | ~$100 | 1 lb 4 oz | Polyester webbing | All-day wear | 4.6/20,000+ |
| Crocs Classic Clog | ~$35 | 7 oz | Croslite foam | Slip-on convenience | 4.7/50,000+ |
| Birkenstock Arizona EVA | ~$45 | 8 oz | EVA foam | Contoured support | 4.6/15,000+ |
Chacos are the standard for camp shoes and light hiking. The Z/Cloud 2 uses a single adjustable strap that wraps the foot, a contoured LUVSEAT footbed, and a grippy outsole. Owners wear them for hours around camp, on side hikes, and even through stream crossings.
Crocs are the ultimate camp shoe: slip-on, quick-drying, ultra-light at 7 oz, and easy to hose off. They pack flat, float in water, and provide surprisingly decent comfort for short walks. Owners love them for the campground, the beach, and around the RV.
Car camping or RV: Crocs or Birkenstock EVA — slip-on, light, and comfortable around the campsite.
Backpacking or long walks in camp: Chaco Z/Cloud 2 for arch support and durability.
Wet environments or stream crossings: Any water-friendly sandal — avoid leather or fabric.
Buy it if: you take off your boots the moment you stop hiking, you walk around camp cooking and cleaning, or you want to protect your feet without wearing boots.
Skip it if: you hike in cold weather where camp shoes are impractical, or you always car camp and wear regular shoes.
Light day hikes and side trips in Chacos are fine. Long or technical hikes require proper hiking boots with ankle support.
Yes — they're quick-drying, lightweight, slip-on, and easy to clean. They lack arch support for long walks but are perfect around camp.
Soft slip-ons (Crocs, Birkenstock EVA) fold flat and go in a side pocket. Stiff sandals (Chacos) go in the bottom of the pack or attach to the outside.
Camp shoes are for wearing around camp after taking off boots. Water shoes are for wading and rafting — they have thicker soles and drain quickly.
Crocs Classic Clogs are the best camp shoe for most people — $35, ultra-light, slip-on, and quick-drying. Hikers who need arch support should step up to Chacos for all-day comfort.