Camp Shoe Recommendations

[Jason Lande]

These aren't as super-lightweight as many are looking for, but I like the idea of a lightweight mostly-mesh shoe for camp that could also be a river crossing shoe (with the idea that it'd dry pretty quickly). Anyone tried using these, or think these could be a good solution? 6-7 oz per shoe…

Like:

http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/BKW1347/
or
http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/ASC1448/
or
http://www.6pm.com/product/7521497/color/215827

/Jason

[Kate Magill]

+1 on Chacos! Mine have roughly 1000 miles (not including gardening, walking/biking around town, etc.) on them, and still going strong. Amazing arch support.

[Mark Ryan]

Mesh Nylon Shoes look good for what I need. One question is how is the sizing? Accurate?

I am always hesitant to buy shoes online because my feet run from a size 10.5-12 depending on what I am buying.

Thanks

[Elizabeth Tracy]

My Nike First String slides (M8/W9) weigh 8.0 oz. for the pair; and are ridiculously comfortable. (Can't stand flip-flops with the toe thingie.)

I usually don't bring camp shoes, but these are my choice if I do.

I don't believe in using camp shoes for stream crossings. Too easy to have them just float away off your feet; and they provide no traction or toe protection against rocks in the water. Just wear your regular trail runners/boots for that.

– Elizabeth

[Derek Kind]

Good tip with those Nike sandals, they're light and quite cheap.

The lightest running shoes I've found, looking online, so far are the Asics Piranha SP 3 (4.6oz each), and the Mizuno Wave Universe 3 (4oz each). Neither of them are cheap.

Asics: http://www.asicsamerica.com/products/product.aspx?PRODUCT_ID=240013807
Mizuno: http://www.zappos.com/mizuno-wave-universe-3-white-red

I'm looking for a shoe to take along as an alternate for my hiking boots when backpacking in Iceland. Something light to keep in my pack that I can wear when the boots are completely unnecessary (I must bring the boots, though).

[Scott Bentz]

I found that trying to use Crocs for walking in a river can be a sure way to end up in the water. I used them on one trip and have not taken any since. I was nice since I slipped and took a good dip in a river at Philmont. You are not supposed to swim in the rivers. Oops! So, it's trailrunners only for me.

[jeffrey bennett]

If you love comfort and you are not too worried about the weight. The Sanuk Donnys weigh in at 14oz a pair. These are my everyday shoes and they are "Oyeah" on the comfort scale.

[Mark Ryan]

Went with the Crocs Caymen. Thanks for the unput. Would have wanted other sandals recommended but time is a factor and needed them tomorrow. Couldn't find the Target/Walmart knock offs. Outta season. The Crocs seem comfortable but they are ugly as hell. Also not as light as I have read. Not 5oz but 6.5oz for a size 10.

Thanks again

[JOHN ZENNER]

Backpacking for me is simply transportation to fishing sites. We use crocks because, unlike the other poster, I think they offer a lot of support and protection in the water. The soles are thick cushioning you from rocks, and protection is pretty good too. I've had no issues with slipping wearing crocks. Walk in the river all day in them and they are dry in 5 minutes after exiting the stream. A little heavier than other options, but a hell of a lot more support.

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