Last Updated on July 8, 2022 by Ecorf
Many backpackers carry camp shoes or water shoes and these play significant roles during your camping expedition. In addition to your boots or hiking shoes, you may need a second pair of shoes that you can wear around the campsite.
Camp shoes are also waterproof and they dry quickly and you can also use them for other outdoor activities. These shoes can also help you to cross rivers and other wet areas without soaking your boots that may take longer to dry. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the best ultra-lightweight camp shoes that will suit your needs.
As such, this article highlights the benefits of camp shoes as well as the factors that you can consider to get the right products. A few types of shoes will also be reviewed in this article to give you insight about other products that are viewed as the best compared to similar products.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Lightweight Camp Shoes
There are many benefits that you can derive from using ultra-lightweight camp shoes during your expedition. The major reason for choosing camp shoes is that they are lightweight and they can help you to navigate different terrains easily. This may not be possible with your usual camping boots that are usually heavy.
Camp shoes are compact and easy to pack such that you can easily carry them in your backpack to different places. Though lightweight, camp shoes are also advantageous in that they can protect your toes from injury while you walk in different treks.
Camp shoes are also ideal for stream crossing and they save your boots from soaking. Camping boots usually take longer to dry and this can dampen your adventure. On the other hand, camp shoes can dry quickly and they allow your feet to stay dry which helps to keep them clean and healthy by preventing fungus and blisters.
Choosing the Right Camp Shoes
There are certain things that you should consider to be able to get the right type of camp shoes. First and foremost, you must know that there are different types of camp shoes and they significantly differ in various ways. The following shopping guide outlines some of the factors that can help you to choose the right shoes that can satisfy your needs.
Price
Whenever you want to buy a particular product, it is important to consider its price to check if it suits your budget. Prices of different shoes vary according to factors like quality and there are many things to consider. It is also essential to take check customer reviews that you can access from reputable sites to see what other people say about the product. People who have experience with the product are likely to give insightful comments about it.
Material of the Camp Shoes
A variety of camp shoes are made from different types of material which also significantly differ in quality. The aspect of quality includes factors like durability, lightweight, breathability as well as comfort among other elements. Each type of shoe is specifically designed for a specific purpose and this is the reason why the quality of material often differs.
You must know how you wish to use your shoe so that you can make an informed decision. You should also understand that something that works for another person might not work for you so you must properly choose shoes that will suit your destination. On top of that, make sure the camp shoes are ultra-lightweight otherwise it defies logic to carry them when you already have your camping boots.
Waterproof
If you intend to use your camp shoes for activities like river crossing or hiking in swamp areas, it is imperative to make sure that they are waterproof. It is also vital to ensure that they can quickly dry so as to keep your feet dry. Mesh shoes can dry faster compared to sandals which in some cases uses fabric for straps. Fabric usually takes longer to dry which means that you can consider shoes made of mesh.
Are the Shoes Easy to Wear?
When you choose camp shoes, you need to first establish if they are easy to wear. It might be frustrating to get shoes that you always struggle to wear and take off. When you are camping, you should get the right gear that can make your life easy.
Essentially, the aim of camping is to enjoy nature’s relaxing environment and this is complemented by the right gear. When you are relaxing around your campsite, you must be in a position to wear your camp shoes easily and the same should also happen when taking them off.
Buying Guide for Ultra-Lightweight Camp Shoes
There are different factors that you should consider to get the best ultra-lightweight camp shoes. The most important thing that you should always remember is that your choice for these shoes is a matter of personal preference. However, the reviews below can give you insight about what to expect when you want to get the right product that can satisfy your needs.
Dreamcity Men’s Water, Athletic Sport Lightweight Walking Shoes
Dreamcity men’s light walking shoes are versatile and they can be used for different types of camping activities. You can use these shoes for sport, hiking among other activities that require shoes that are lightweight. The shoes are made of durable materials that include light rubber sole, breathable air mesh that is designed to allow your feet to breathe.
The shoes also consist of 90 % fabric for maximum comfort. This type of shoe also consists of solyte midsole that is lightweight and provides excellent bounce-back as well as durability. The outer sole also provides excellent traction that gives you quality grip under wet conditions. The interior design of the shoes offers excellent cushioning and dry performance.
Pros
- Affordable
- Quick-drying
- Breathable
- Optimum cooling effect
- Excellent traction
Merrell Men’s Moab Fst Hiking Shoe
This ultra-lightweight shoe is designed to give you all-day comfort and it also features athletic styling. The shoe has 100% mesh and TPU upper for improved breathability of your feet. This is also an all-weather shoe with a Vibram sole, padded tongue and collar all designed to give you comfort.
Vibram MegaGrip outsole is also designed to provide quality durability and traction ideal for both dry and wet surfaces. You can also use the shoes in different environments and still enjoy quality comfort and breathability.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Excellent breathability
- Perfect traction
Cons
- No waterproof lining
- Expensive
RAX Men’s Lightweight Hiking Shoes
The shoes are designed for backpacking, trekking, spring and summer hiking, and other outdoor activities. The model features a breathable top and functional sole that is excellent for outdoor activities. The shoes also offer toe and heel protection in different types of terrain.
The anti-skid rubber sole also features shock-absorbing properties for excellent comfort. The shoes also boast of toe and heel protection, strong side lycra support that cannot easily get damaged.
Pros
- Durable
- Good ventilation
- Safe for trekking
- Ideal for different outdoor activities
Cons
- The model might not be a favorite to everyone
LOUECHY Men’s Ponrea Mesh Hiking Shoes
LOUECHY hiking shoes are designed to fit different environments while at the same time satisfying the needs of the customers. The model features a durable rubber sole for maximum traction and comfort together with mesh top for improved breathability of your feet.
The shoes also feature toe and heel protection to enhance your safety. The soft insole is designed for cushioning as well as shock absorption. Above all, the shoes are lightweight and you can cover long walking distances without any problem.
Pros
- Excellent breathability
- Perfect traction and durability on both wet and dry surface
- Toe and heel protection
- Ideal for outdoor activities
Cons
- Inner plastic lining not strong
DLGJPA Men’s Lightweight Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes
DLGJPA Water Shoe is designed for daily traveling, water aerobic sports as well as other activities while at the same time giving you exceptional comfort. The shoes are made of lightweight mesh that is breathable and adaptive to different conditions. The soft cushioning provides an excellent fit for a variety of outdoor activities.
Pros
- Quick-drying and superior breathability
- Lightweight
- Excellent traction
- High-quality comfort
Cons
- Inner sock lining not very strong
Conclusion
From the ultra-lightweight shoes reviewed above, Dreamcity Men’s Water shoe is our best pick. These shoes are versatile and they can be used for different types of outdoor activities. For example, you can use the shoes for sporting and hiking since they are lightweight.
However, the issue of whether camp shoes are crucial for backpacking depends on factors that include gear choices and personal preferences as well as conditions of the environment. Lightweight shoes enhance mobility and they can dry quickly when they get wet. All the same, you can still enjoy your adventure without cam shoes.