I have a pair of Crock Maryjanes that I have used for river shoes, kayak shoes, and camp shoes for years. They are less likely to slip off your foot than the clogs. All crock straps can be tightened up with a hair dryer, or detached and left in the sun. The cushion in Crocks can be comforting if you have ant foot problems.
I recommend the XeroShoe Cloud. I just picked some up for my trail shoe, very light weight with a slight heel cup. I haven't weighed them but they have to lighter than the ZTrail and they have a heel strap, kind of best of both worlds.
In the past I used cheap flip flops. But they suck lol. I just got a cheap lightweight Birkenstock style shoe to use. I haven't taken them out yet. Hope they work ok.
Not water, but for camp I use the Exped camp slipper - synth. insulated, 3-4 season, rubber coated bottom. Weigh about 6 oz and can be balled-up small. Am also looking for that water/camp/UL shoe that I could hike a few miles in if needed.
crocs are land and water. thats the point right? I've brought them discreet golfing for a river dip or retrieving a bad throw from water. swampy day? no problem.
A small length of paracord will make a good heel strap for flip flops . I just keep my altras on because I have to wear compression socks. That’s aging for ya...
I got xero shoes z trail, decent for short distances but I'd be crying after a few miles. My teva hurricanes are good for every thing but heavy. Never tried crocs because I havent found any that match my fanny pack / kilt outfit. *fingers crossed*
You can indeed cross what’re in crocs. Unless it’s an ungodly uneven riverbed with a super gnarly current or something like that they will do just fine.
Interesting topic and one that I've thought about a lot. The lightest option for river crossing that I've come up with is a pair of NRS neoprene water socks. These are 5 mm thick. I put insoles from an old pair of sneakers inside for added cushioning. They weigh a tad over 4 oz for the pair, including the insoles . In a pinch, you could also use them as make-shift mittens for cold-rainy conditions (I've had numb hands even in July and August). I use these for crossing rivers and swimming, which I enjoy whenever I can. I don't know how long the neoprene would last if you wore them as camp shoes. I've never done that. A drawback is they take a while to dry inside. I've also used Crocs, but I added a small string to go over the top of my ankle for added security. These work great for river crossing, swimming, and as camp shoes. I've even walked a quarter mile or so in them with no problem. This is handy if you have multiple river crossings. In general, I seem to take the NRS water socks more frequently to save the weight.
I think I found my best camp shoes yet in the Z Trail. I like the ability to wear them with socks for the coolers months at camp, which rules out anything that seats between my toes.
The simple answer to water Crossings is just take 2 kitchen trash bags. There is almost no weight. You put one over each foot and leg and cross the water. Shake them off and you're on your way. As far as Camp shoes you can buy some foam sandals that way almost nothing. And they cost almost nothing.
Goals are 1) water-crossing, 2) camp-shoe, 3) hike a few miles in an emergency, 4) toe protection, 5) Lightweight, 6) Dry quickly. These are the only shoe that meet all six goals: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C41PFTC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 They weigh 3.5oz each in the largest size. Made of EVA foam that won't absorb even a drop of water (heel neoprene absorbs a tiny bit). Comfortable too. Hang outside pack (they don't compress small). Am a stickler for toe-protection and these are great toe-protection. Excellent traction too. A lot tougher than they look. Have many miles on them. Blisters the first time using, so break your feet in before trying mileage? They can be gently heated and shaped, if necessary, but strappage is very comfortable.
I just bought a pair of the Xero shoes cloud sandals. I haven't got them out on a overnighter but just wearing them around town and the house I think they are going to be just what I need.
My experience with Crocs is they are not great on slick rocks. Then again I am at times walking across rivers that tungsten carbide studded wading boots don't always grip on.
Considering i mainly backpack in the winter my answer is my down booties! I would never go on a winter backpacking trip without them! They have a sole and I can even walk on snow with them and they are some what water resistant!
Olaian neoprene surfing shoes.. 135 grams. 20 euro at Decathlon. Good for camp. I need to buy new ones, because my Meindl soles broke off and we pulled these surfing shoes over my mountain shoes to keep them in place. Did a 18k hike in Albania on surf shoes. 😅 Video on my channel.
Crocs Swiftwater work well and are in that low weight range. Instead of a camp shoe that can be used for water crossings they're more like a water crossing shoe that can be used for camp shoes. I'm surprised they don't get more publicity among backpackers. They are expensive, but as with a lot of backpacking stuff, you get what you pay for.
Crocs are great for water crossings. Never had an issue with them coming off - or even with them coming loose. Toe protection, thick, non-skid tread and comfortable AF in camp, too. I strap them to the outside of my pack, so space is not an issue. Couldn't give a %$&# what anyone else thinks they look like. Never tried hiking in them, but don't see why they wouldn't work for a while on unchallenging terrain.
Teva Omnium 2 water shoes if Canoeing or Kayaking. Sometimes even for wet hiking here in Florida. The rest of the time it's Crocks especially as camp shoes. Crocks are versatile , I have even hiked in them and wear them as casual shoes when at home. No straps when at home , only as slip one's with he straps forward. The more worn the Crocks get the better they are. .
Crocs are crap. No ankle support , comes off too easy and o arch support. Yes great for shower shoes or sitting in camp . But never hike in them or cross moving water.
Have you tried the Hydro Moc by Merrell its a trail and hiking amphibious shoe i love mine i personally think they are way better then crocs and they do weigh 11 ounces
Crocs look goofy but work and are light. A friend had to hike a day in them on the Black Forest trail in PA when he got bad blisters; and it wasn’t awful.
Birkenstock makes a rubber / foam “Birkenstock” style sandal. They weigh in at just over 3oz each. I’ve been using them section hiking the AT with high success. I’ve also crossed the Shenandoah river many times while kayak camping with great success as well. Oh, you can definitely hike them for a few miles as well.
Great idea for a video, and I found myself wondering if I could do anything differently after a recent trip to Lake Vesuvius. We ended up hitting a pretty large water crossing "over ankle height" and ended up having to just keep our boots on and get em wet. Unfortunate, but it is what it is. I will say, and I know you already use them, but I recently switched to trail runners which helped mitigate the impact of getting my shoes wet. Previously when I had hiking boots it would take significantly longer for them to dry out (up to 3 days when I went to Pictured Rocks). Great content man, keep up the good work and stay safe!
Good rundown on this topic. I started with flip-flops but went to Xero Shoes Z-Trail Sandals and never looked back. They definitely improve the quality of my hike, enough so to justify the added weight. But it's subjective and is simply what works for me.
I'm in need of new crossing shoes. For the JMT I'll probably get myself light camp shoes but there are so many water hikes in southern Utah that I need a legit water hiking shoe. I destroyed my last pair in Buckskin Gulch lol
@@mobilewintercamp7515 Thanks! I'm definitely looking for something along those lines. I had the same pair of Tevas for 8 years. I was way beyond needing to replace them! haha
Amy Routt holy cow Amy! I didn’t pay attention to the name I just saw your comment and thought it’d be helpful. I got your reply and it’s not your channel. Yaaaayyy. This is the highlight of my UA-cam comment history yaaaayyy. I watch your stuff and I hope it works for you, I hope to see it in action on your channel. 😊❤️🇺🇸❄️☃️🛷⛺️🌄
Love my xero z trails! I would recommend them to anyone looking for light weight comfort. They weigh less than crocs and will stay tight on your feet if used for water crossings.
Have taken my crocs, they did the job. Was not happy having them dangling from my pack. Recently went with the xero z trail. Looking forward to stuffing them in, or outside my pack. Lighter, and more packable for me. Win Win. Be well, Terry.
Z-Trail are awesome! I crossed the Gila river at least 15 times on an 8 mile hike and they held up great. They're good for hiking and water crossing and real light weight.
great mentions here. i would add Vibram toe shoes. they work great, pack small, breatheable and grippy. they're not bad for trekking either for shorter trips. happy camping out there!
For super ultralight, I use the disposable foam sandals from salons. No good for water crossings though. I'm kinda liking those Xero shoes. Your audio is outstanding in this!
Never heard of those. Gonna look those up. And thanks for noticing! Most of the time I get lazy with audio but today I took my time and did some tricks . Haha
The Zero's are terrible for river crossings. Rocks slip in and get stuck between your feet and the sandal and you end up walking on rocks with every step.
Edited down to necessary information only, & cutting out the several minutes of this guy loving the sound of his own voice, this could have been a two & a half or three minute video.
Crocs have an advantage for river crossings over many other choices because they instantly dry and mud easily rinses right off without a trace. They are light and they STAY light because they do not absorb water. One thing worth noting: I have tried knock-off Crocs and the strap was not tight enough for me to cross rivers. I had to buy authentic, unfortunately but it was worth it. My hiking buddy has the knock-off version and they fit him perfectly. Crocs make a great camp shoe as well due to the superb cushion. They allow my feet to recover. I suggest you test a pair and post a review.
I like to put Crocs in my oversized fannypack that’s attached to my rainskirt so they’re always ready for quick deployment. Size 9...kinda dainty feet. 🦶 🦶. You got Bailey’s in that coffee I hope!! ☕️
Check out the Sanuk Hemp. It’s a full coverage canvas top over a foam bottom. They have holes around the bottom for water squeeze out. Size 10’s are 12 ounces, ) they run large) I usually were 11’s. I’m on my second set after several years of use. Shoes would have lasted longer if I kept my large toe nails clipped. They wore through the canvas top and after rubbing from friends(?) I tossed them a purchased new ones. One caveat, they are a little expensive. The company is owned by the Uggs brand.
Hello BRYCE how you doing. This is a very good topic .Camp shoes are very important. I do kayak camping and at the end of your trip you is ready to put on something different. Unfortunate for me I don't have a lot of foot options for me. I have Big very very wide feet sz14 4 EEEE WITH FAT WIDE TOE. They do not make a shoes that's wide enough for my foot so I have to wear flip flops all year long. Is very challenging because my foot is wider than the straps on the flip flops so sometimes I cannot get my Flip-flops on my feet so I have to go barefooted 👣. I kayak mostly barefooted👣 just so I can keep my flip-flops because that is my only Footwear that I have. I was able to get a pair of Crocs but I had to cut the end of the toe box out on each Crocs so that two of my toes on each foot could hang out of the Crocs to fit me. That's how wide my foot is. It looks very funny seeing 2 toes hanging out on each Crocs but that's the only way they fit. They are super comfortable and with the backstrap you can walk across Rivers with the back strap on and the crocs will not come off. I've done this several of times kayaking. I tried to put on Keen but they were not wide enough and they was giving my toes discomfort while I was in the store trying them. I like the xero sandals but again my toes are so wide they won't fit through the straps to wear. This is where having very very wide feet with very fat wide toes kind of sucks. I have a old pair of flip-flops and when I use them I punched a hole through the side straps and tie some 550 cord around the back to lock it to my foot. It works great. I just added a new pair of sandals to my feet and those are bedrock sandals. Like I said I can't wear shoes so I had to have open toe shoes. Flip flops I have to use those for work and Crocs I used them sometimes for work but I don't want to wear them out cuz I like to use those more for winter and I wanted something else to wear. I'm loving my bed rocks right now more than my flip-flops and I've been wearing flip-flops for about 30 years now. My Bedrock sandals I can put them on my feet in Seconds and my flip-flops like I said sometimes I can put them on and sometimes I can't. Having very very wide feet with fat wide toe is very frustrating sometimes. I don't think me being a size 14 as a problem I think my problem is with my foot being so wide with fat toes really causes a lot of problems me.my buddy where is Crocs and flip flops and those Footwear's are okay for campsites. It just really sucks for me cuz I haven't worn shoes or socks in about 30 years since my foot got wide then the shoes you take it easy sir I thought I share my story with you.
You need to check out Shammas, the best minimalist sandals hands down! They are extremely lightweight and good looking. They have a good website. Also, they are a small cottage industry type shop with maybe 4 employees from Santa Cruz, California.
Sooo. I discovered these shoes that are similar to crocs but literally half the weight and cheap!... amoji garden clogs on amazon weigh 3.5 ounces per shoe... highly recommend for light weight toe box basecamp shoes...
I've looked at the zero's and talk about wuss looking. Buhahaha. I do the crocks now but only for hiking. I wouldn't be caught dead wearing them out in public like a trendy d-sack. Sorry! I used to do the flip flops but found walking to gather wood and things like it just doesn't work for me. See you out on the trail Bryce.
I think this may be the answer. Certainly not a spare hiking shoe but is great for water crossings, camp, and late night pees are so much easier with these. You just slip them on in the tent. Super soft and easy with surprising comfort. Like socks. check em out www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07M9T67KP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. Ive had them out on a cpl trips now with no complaints at 6.5 oz for the pair.
First off...Boba Fett mug....much respect to ya. Anywho, I use a pair of Magellan river sandals. Yes Chaco's are nice....but killer in price. I love me a good pair of Teva's (always my go to) but when price is my issue, I got a pair of Magellan for dirt cheap at Academy. That's just me though. They are great for around the camp site and especially when canoeing and water crossing. Heck sometimes I'll hike in theme depending on terrain. They just have great grip so no slipping on wet rocks. Either way, great video dude. Keep it up.
Here's another option which is also multipurpose. $3 from China gets you a cheap thin neoprene beach/water shoe/sock. They weigh about 3-4oz a pair. NOT the ones with the rubber sole. They are too heavy. No, they do not last very long unless you are careful. I insert a super thin .25oz insole from any random pair of shoes to give them structure/sole protection for walking around camp. As a side-benefit, assuming you order a big enough size, they can add a surprising amount of warmth while sleeping, over your socks. They are very marginal as a water shoe (lacking the rubber sole) but I have used them many times for deep crossings. Just don't turn your back on the current or they can fly off.
I just use the cheap flip-flops from Walmart. Where I am about half the year it’s pointless to change footwear while water crossing because the trails are so wet/muddy you’d extend a 6-hour hike by an hour working your way through the brush and undergrowth to avoid it all. The shoes will get wet, and it’s not uncommon for mud to be splashed all up the legs (once I had to retrieve a lost shoe from the mud, sucked it right off). At camp, let socks and shoes dry and trade them out for cheap footwear. Always bring extra socks of course. I have yet to spring for sealskins, might do that at some point. Winter months...that’s another story involving water shoes and insulated waterproof boots...not sure why I torture myself lol.
Sounds crazy, but I use "ballet flats" for camp shoes. They are lightweight, foldable women's shoes that they put in their purse for convenience usually. I think that translates well to UL backpacking. Of course, as a dude, I had to check my ego and not care. Great option if you have reasonably small feet to meet the sizes. I wish the companies that make these would understand the niche market and make more sizes available.
My Merrell trail glove 4s are 14 oz for a 10.5. Not the lightest but great for setting up camp, getting water or collecting firewood. Wide toe box like Altras and good soul for hiking. If you have multiple water crossings in close proximity, you can keep them on the whole time because they can handle some trail miles. 😊❤️🇺🇸⛺️🌄
I got these things off Amazon that were like socks but with shoe soles. Kinda heavy feeling but did water crossing like a champ. Fit my feet like gloves
I hate having a strap between my toes, so I found a pair of all rubber slip-ons from Under Armour. They are great pool/shower shoes, or for around camp. Just a bit heavier than cheap flip flops. I used to own those Keen sandals. They were so comfortable, but caused my feet to stink. Like, my wife would ask me to wash my feet once I took them off if I wore them for an hour to walk the dog stink. I’m in my 40s, and they’re the only shoes I’ve ever owned that cause that problem.
I just purchased Body Glove 3T heros. Got mainly for whitewater kayaking, but figured they'd also make a good water crossing or camp shoe. Not sure of the weight yet as I'm still waiting for them to arrive.
Not really related to camp shoes but I wore waterproof socks on my last overnighter and just plowed through creek crossings and wet areas on the trail. Cheap light pair of slides for camp. Can't do the sandals I hate things between my toes
For camp shoes I've been using Sanuk Vagabond slip-on, same pair for at least three years now. There getting pretty worn now but they'e only about $40 so not bad for three years. I prefer to have some kind of outer sole and toe coverage, so sandals are out for me. Not good for stream crossing, but here in Southern California, we just hop across our streams. If I'm in the Sierras I'll bring toe covered water shoes as my camp shoe.
Wore my crocs in the mountains and used them for water crossings and fishing in the the water for 3 days! Highly recommend.. downside mossy rocks will bring you down.
I found some cheap foam sandals and then trimmed them down to reduce the weight from 170g to just under 100g per sandal. Not particularly durable but light and multipurpose
Source sandals are the same weight as zeros and much more robust and comfortable Super cheap flip flops are great String round the back will keep them on in water
I love good quality flipflops as camp shoes, as long as it's not freezing, but using an old insole with cordage is a very interesting idea and a lot lighter. I'll have to google that. I also have a rugged pair of hiking sandals I could use for water crossings, or just keep them on all day. Hope you can get back out there soon. I know I will!
I use your exact .99 flip flop. Also carry 2 diy shock cord loops for water X’s. I just slip over my ankle, twist loop into an X, slide other end of loop under heel end of flip flop. In a pinch, I’ve used larger rubber bands before. Ps. Recommendations for fanny packs- Thrupack, Lite AF 🤪
Just weighed one of my Z trail sandals - 5.45 oz, size 10 men's. They re-sized them recently I believe, guessing you would take the 10, though not positive. It's the 2020 model Z trail, just bought them a month ago. I too have an older Z-Trek in a 9. I also wear Xero Prio shoes for most things, just finished a hike in them today, can't say enough good things about the feel they give me. I enjoyed your Z-trek vid by the way, felt like you were speaking my truth on them straight down the line !!
Ok so I however just stay in my altras and don’t do camp shoes but we did a weekend at dolly sods this past weekend, so water levels were thigh high at the red creek pass so one of our guys had gortex boots he couldn’t get wet and his crocs worked great he said. Water was moving and they stayed put and worked well. Great video so keep me coming!
Hey Bryce. Thanks for the advice on the Xero Z Trail sandals. I had been shopping around for a pair in this category. Watching your footage (sorry for pun) of wearing them and your comments cinched the decision. They arrived today and feel great. My feet couldn't do a 10+ mile hike in them, but they are perfect for everyday use along as a camp/water crossing shoe. Thanks again.
The heel strap on crocs is for when you need to be in 4 wheel drive.
Our family calls it "sports mode"
I have a pair of Crock Maryjanes that I have used for river shoes, kayak shoes, and camp shoes for years. They are less likely to slip off your foot than the clogs. All crock straps can be tightened up with a hair dryer, or detached and left in the sun. The cushion in Crocks can be comforting if you have ant foot problems.
I recommend the XeroShoe Cloud. I just picked some up for my trail shoe, very light weight with a slight heel cup. I haven't weighed them but they have to lighter than the ZTrail and they have a heel strap, kind of best of both worlds.
5.7oz per shoe on my scale. Probably a little heavy for an ultralight loadout but man they are comfy.
In the past I used cheap flip flops. But they suck lol. I just got a cheap lightweight Birkenstock style shoe to use. I haven't taken them out yet. Hope they work ok.
Haha. I live in flip flops in the summer!
@@BryceNewbold me too in everyday life... not on the trail anymore.
Flip flops are a decent alternative, especially on flat terrain. But I hear ya, can't wear them.
Not water, but for camp I use the Exped camp slipper - synth. insulated, 3-4 season, rubber coated bottom. Weigh about 6 oz and can be balled-up small. Am also looking for that water/camp/UL shoe that I could hike a few miles in if needed.
check out MEC Hut Slippers - less than 6 ounces
I the Z-Trails on sale at REI right now.
O'Neill Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties
Crocs work great for a camp shoe and for water crossings. Be comfortable in your man skin 🦖
crocs are land and water. thats the point right? I've brought them discreet golfing for a river dip or retrieving a bad throw from water. swampy day? no problem.
A small length of paracord will make a good heel strap for flip flops .
I just keep my altras on because I have to wear compression socks. That’s aging for ya...
I got xero shoes z trail, decent for short distances but I'd be crying after a few miles. My teva hurricanes are good for every thing but heavy.
Never tried crocs because I havent found any that match my fanny pack / kilt outfit. *fingers crossed*
Backcountry Pilgrim you should check out the Hydro Moc by Merrell i think you will love them
You can indeed cross what’re in crocs. Unless it’s an ungodly uneven riverbed with a super gnarly current or something like that they will do just fine.
Interesting topic and one that I've thought about a lot. The lightest option for river crossing that I've come up with is a pair of NRS neoprene water socks. These are 5 mm thick. I put insoles from an old pair of sneakers inside for added cushioning. They weigh a tad over 4 oz for the pair, including the insoles . In a pinch, you could also use them as make-shift mittens for cold-rainy conditions (I've had numb hands even in July and August). I use these for crossing rivers and swimming, which I enjoy whenever I can. I don't know how long the neoprene would last if you wore them as camp shoes. I've never done that. A drawback is they take a while to dry inside. I've also used Crocs, but I added a small string to go over the top of my ankle for added security. These work great for river crossing, swimming, and as camp shoes. I've even walked a quarter mile or so in them with no problem. This is handy if you have multiple river crossings. In general, I seem to take the NRS water socks more frequently to save the weight.
I think I found my best camp shoes yet in the Z Trail. I like the ability to wear them with socks for the coolers months at camp, which rules out anything that seats between my toes.
The simple answer to water Crossings is just take 2 kitchen trash bags. There is almost no weight. You put one over each foot and leg and cross the water. Shake them off and you're on your way. As far as Camp shoes you can buy some foam sandals that way almost nothing. And they cost almost nothing.
We use a hiking croc for fording rivers in Maine no issues , now use them in camp toes are protected .
Goals are 1) water-crossing, 2) camp-shoe, 3) hike a few miles in an emergency, 4) toe protection, 5) Lightweight, 6) Dry quickly. These are the only shoe that meet all six goals: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C41PFTC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 They weigh 3.5oz each in the largest size. Made of EVA foam that won't absorb even a drop of water (heel neoprene absorbs a tiny bit). Comfortable too. Hang outside pack (they don't compress small). Am a stickler for toe-protection and these are great toe-protection.
Excellent traction too. A lot tougher than they look. Have many miles on them. Blisters the first time using, so break your feet in before trying mileage? They can be gently heated and shaped, if necessary, but strappage is very comfortable.
I just bought a pair of the Xero shoes cloud sandals. I haven't got them out on a overnighter but just wearing them around town and the house I think they are going to be just what I need.
I have a pair of knock-off crocs from DG. The two of them together weigh in at 8oz total. Cheap and light. How can you go wrong. lol
Me too. They are much lighter than real Crocs.
My experience with Crocs is they are not great on slick rocks. Then again I am at times walking across rivers that tungsten carbide studded wading boots don't always grip on.
The Swiftwater Crocs have a stickier bottom.
The Crocs would look great with a rain skirt!
Add a fanny pack and bam! Sexy!
It would be so hard to do high miles with that setup!! You know, with all the trail bunnies stopping you to get your number.
Considering i mainly backpack in the winter my answer is my down booties! I would never go on a winter backpacking trip without them! They have a sole and I can even walk on snow with them and they are some what water resistant!
Olaian neoprene surfing shoes.. 135 grams. 20 euro at Decathlon. Good for camp. I need to buy new ones, because my Meindl soles broke off and we pulled these surfing shoes over my mountain shoes to keep them in place. Did a 18k hike in Albania on surf shoes. 😅 Video on my channel.
Crocs Swiftwater work well and are in that low weight range. Instead of a camp shoe that can be used for water crossings they're more like a water crossing shoe that can be used for camp shoes. I'm surprised they don't get more publicity among backpackers. They are expensive, but as with a lot of backpacking stuff, you get what you pay for.
Crocs Men's Swiftwater Wave Sandal... fantastic in camp and for crossings. Even have a little bit of arch support.
I backpacked this weekend, had 14 water crossings in cold weather. I brought an old pair of Timp 1.5's for water crossing. Worked great.
Crocs are great for water crossings. Never had an issue with them coming off - or even with them coming loose. Toe protection, thick, non-skid tread and comfortable AF in camp, too. I strap them to the outside of my pack, so space is not an issue. Couldn't give a %$&# what anyone else thinks they look like. Never tried hiking in them, but don't see why they wouldn't work for a while on unchallenging terrain.
Teva Omnium 2 water shoes if Canoeing or Kayaking. Sometimes even for wet hiking here in Florida. The rest of the time it's Crocks especially as camp shoes. Crocks are versatile , I have even hiked in them and wear them as casual shoes when at home. No straps when at home , only as slip one's with he straps forward. The more worn the Crocks get the better they are. .
Crocs are crap. No ankle support , comes off too easy and o arch support. Yes great for shower shoes or sitting in camp . But never hike in them or cross moving water.
Have you tried the Hydro Moc by Merrell its a trail and hiking amphibious shoe i love mine i personally think they are way better then crocs and they do weigh 11 ounces
Crocs look goofy but work and are light. A friend had to hike a day in them on the Black Forest trail in PA when he got bad blisters; and it wasn’t awful.
I use an old pair of merrell barefoots. Super light and they dry fast.
Brice, check out the Aleader water shoes. They are light fit great and I believe will make a great camp/ water crossing shoe.
❤😂🎉🎉🎉,,,, informative, i have my water shoes, nuttin fancy😊
Couldn't you just add a piece of shock cord to the flip flops for water crossing?
In my opinion crocks are to slippery for water crossing. In other words, they have no tread.
Birkenstock makes a rubber / foam “Birkenstock” style sandal. They weigh in at just over 3oz each. I’ve been using them section hiking the AT with high success. I’ve also crossed the Shenandoah river many times while kayak camping with great success as well. Oh, you can definitely hike them for a few miles as well.
Dollar store knockoff foam Crocs. Men's size 10 weigh 4.4 ounces each, been using them for years when I feel like carrying the weight.
Great idea for a video, and I found myself wondering if I could do anything differently after a recent trip to Lake Vesuvius. We ended up hitting a pretty large water crossing "over ankle height" and ended up having to just keep our boots on and get em wet. Unfortunate, but it is what it is. I will say, and I know you already use them, but I recently switched to trail runners which helped mitigate the impact of getting my shoes wet. Previously when I had hiking boots it would take significantly longer for them to dry out (up to 3 days when I went to Pictured Rocks). Great content man, keep up the good work and stay safe!
Good rundown on this topic. I started with flip-flops but went to Xero Shoes Z-Trail Sandals and never looked back. They definitely improve the quality of my hike, enough so to justify the added weight. But it's subjective and is simply what works for me.
The shoes I use , www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HMMH2NG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I'm in need of new crossing shoes. For the JMT I'll probably get myself light camp shoes but there are so many water hikes in southern Utah that I need a legit water hiking shoe. I destroyed my last pair in Buckskin Gulch lol
Try barefoot running shoes like a Merrell trail glove. Wide toe box , good for hiking . You can keep them on for multiple water crossings in a row.
@@mobilewintercamp7515 Thanks! I'm definitely looking for something along those lines. I had the same pair of Tevas for 8 years. I was way beyond needing to replace them! haha
Amy Routt holy cow Amy! I didn’t pay attention to the name I just saw your comment and thought it’d be helpful. I got your reply and it’s not your channel. Yaaaayyy. This is the highlight of my UA-cam comment history yaaaayyy. I watch your stuff and I hope it works for you, I hope to see it in action on your channel. 😊❤️🇺🇸❄️☃️🛷⛺️🌄
@@mobilewintercamp7515 Oh my gosh! haha I love this comment. I really appreciate your kind words. As well as your shoe suggestion! :)
What about the decathlon sandals? They are light and super cheap
Love my xero z trails! I would recommend them to anyone looking for light weight comfort. They weigh less than crocs and will stay tight on your feet if used for water crossings.
If you ignore the looks Crocs are perfect.
Have taken my crocs, they did the job. Was not happy having them dangling from my pack. Recently went with the xero z trail. Looking forward to stuffing them in, or outside my pack. Lighter, and more packable for me. Win Win. Be well, Terry.
Nice. Hope they work out for you
Wafting Transient I love my xero z trails for river crossings and camp👍
You can cross water with flip flops just fine. Get strip straps. Look it up!
Z-Trail are awesome! I crossed the Gila river at least 15 times on an 8 mile hike and they held up great. They're good for hiking and water crossing and real light weight.
great mentions here. i would add Vibram toe shoes. they work great, pack small, breatheable and grippy. they're not bad for trekking either for shorter trips. happy camping out there!
4 me any cheap tennis shoes will do.
But, what ever I use has to be able to get me home in a pinch plus my pack if still with me.
For super ultralight, I use the disposable foam sandals from salons. No good for water crossings though. I'm kinda liking those Xero shoes. Your audio is outstanding in this!
Never heard of those. Gonna look those up. And thanks for noticing! Most of the time I get lazy with audio but today I took my time and did some tricks . Haha
use these water shoes, for camp shoes, as well....
Watched all of it
I use the Z-trails. Love them. Worth the weight penalty for sure.
The Zero's are terrible for river crossings. Rocks slip in and get stuck between your feet and the sandal and you end up walking on rocks with every step.
I could see that happening. But I've never had that issue. I think any sandal type shoe could do that
Edited down to necessary information only, & cutting out the several minutes of this guy loving the sound of his own voice, this could have been a two & a half or three minute video.
God I love my voice
Crocs have an advantage for river crossings over many other choices because they instantly dry and mud easily rinses right off without a trace. They are light and they STAY light because they do not absorb water.
One thing worth noting: I have tried knock-off Crocs and the strap was not tight enough for me to cross rivers. I had to buy authentic, unfortunately but it was worth it. My hiking buddy has the knock-off version and they fit him perfectly.
Crocs make a great camp shoe as well due to the superb cushion. They allow my feet to recover.
I suggest you test a pair and post a review.
I like to put Crocs in my oversized fannypack that’s attached to my rainskirt so they’re always ready for quick deployment. Size 9...kinda dainty feet. 🦶 🦶. You got Bailey’s in that coffee I hope!! ☕️
I suck up the weight and carry Tevas... because I can hike in them too. :)
@ 7:27 that tent pitch tho 👌🏽
Crocs are terrible in the water. The name should be different. SUPER slippery
Check out the Sanuk Hemp. It’s a full coverage canvas top over a foam bottom. They have holes around the bottom for water squeeze out. Size 10’s are 12 ounces, ) they run large) I usually were 11’s. I’m on my second set after several years of use. Shoes would have lasted longer if I kept my large toe nails clipped. They wore through the canvas top and after rubbing from friends(?) I tossed them a purchased new ones. One caveat, they are a little expensive. The company is owned by the Uggs brand.
Hello BRYCE how you doing. This is a very good topic .Camp shoes are very important. I do kayak camping and at the end of your trip you is ready to put on something different. Unfortunate for me I don't have a lot of foot options for me. I have Big very very wide feet sz14 4 EEEE WITH FAT WIDE TOE. They do not make a shoes that's wide enough for my foot so I have to wear flip flops all year long. Is very challenging because my foot is wider than the straps on the flip flops so sometimes I cannot get my Flip-flops on my feet so I have to go barefooted 👣. I kayak mostly barefooted👣 just so I can keep my flip-flops because that is my only Footwear that I have. I was able to get a pair of Crocs but I had to cut the end of the toe box out on each Crocs so that two of my toes on each foot could hang out of the Crocs to fit me. That's how wide my foot is. It looks very funny seeing 2 toes hanging out on each Crocs but that's the only way they fit. They are super comfortable and with the backstrap you can walk across Rivers with the back strap on and the crocs will not come off. I've done this several of times kayaking. I tried to put on Keen but they were not wide enough and they was giving my toes discomfort while I was in the store trying them. I like the xero sandals but again my toes are so wide they won't fit through the straps to wear. This is where having very very wide feet with very fat wide toes kind of sucks. I have a old pair of flip-flops and when I use them I punched a hole through the side straps and tie some 550 cord around the back to lock it to my foot. It works great. I just added a new pair of sandals to my feet and those are bedrock sandals. Like I said I can't wear shoes so I had to have open toe shoes. Flip flops I have to use those for work and Crocs I used them sometimes for work but I don't want to wear them out cuz I like to use those more for winter and I wanted something else to wear. I'm loving my bed rocks right now more than my flip-flops and I've been wearing flip-flops for about 30 years now. My Bedrock sandals I can put them on my feet in Seconds and my flip-flops like I said sometimes I can put them on and sometimes I can't. Having very very wide feet with fat wide toe is very frustrating sometimes. I don't think me being a size 14 as a problem I think my problem is with my foot being so wide with fat toes really causes a lot of problems me.my buddy where is Crocs and flip flops and those Footwear's are okay for campsites. It just really sucks for me cuz I haven't worn shoes or socks in about 30 years since my foot got wide then the shoes you take it easy sir I thought I share my story with you.
You need to check out Shammas, the best minimalist sandals hands down! They are extremely lightweight and good looking. They have a good website. Also, they are a small cottage industry type shop with maybe 4 employees from Santa Cruz, California.
I grabbed a pair of Bearfoot Gloves for this and never went back, they're great!
...and heavy
Sooo. I discovered these shoes that are similar to crocs but literally half the weight and cheap!... amoji garden clogs on amazon weigh 3.5 ounces per shoe... highly recommend for light weight toe box basecamp shoes...
I've looked at the zero's and talk about wuss looking. Buhahaha. I do the crocks now but only for hiking. I wouldn't be caught dead wearing them out in public like a trendy d-sack. Sorry! I used to do the flip flops but found walking to gather wood and things like it just doesn't work for me. See you out on the trail Bryce.
I think this may be the answer. Certainly not a spare hiking shoe but is great for water crossings, camp, and late night pees are so much easier with these. You just slip them on in the tent. Super soft and easy with surprising comfort. Like socks. check em out www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07M9T67KP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. Ive had them out on a cpl trips now with no complaints at 6.5 oz for the pair.
First off...Boba Fett mug....much respect to ya.
Anywho, I use a pair of Magellan river sandals. Yes Chaco's are nice....but killer in price. I love me a good pair of Teva's (always my go to) but when price is my issue, I got a pair of Magellan for dirt cheap at Academy. That's just me though. They are great for around the camp site and especially when canoeing and water crossing. Heck sometimes I'll hike in theme depending on terrain. They just have great grip so no slipping on wet rocks.
Either way, great video dude. Keep it up.
Sockwa
Here's another option which is also multipurpose. $3 from China gets you a cheap thin neoprene beach/water shoe/sock. They weigh about 3-4oz a pair. NOT the ones with the rubber sole. They are too heavy. No, they do not last very long unless you are careful. I insert a super thin .25oz insole from any random pair of shoes to give them structure/sole protection for walking around camp. As a side-benefit, assuming you order a big enough size, they can add a surprising amount of warmth while sleeping, over your socks. They are very marginal as a water shoe (lacking the rubber sole) but I have used them many times for deep crossings. Just don't turn your back on the current or they can fly off.
I just use the cheap flip-flops from Walmart. Where I am about half the year it’s pointless to change footwear while water crossing because the trails are so wet/muddy you’d extend a 6-hour hike by an hour working your way through the brush and undergrowth to avoid it all. The shoes will get wet, and it’s not uncommon for mud to be splashed all up the legs (once I had to retrieve a lost shoe from the mud, sucked it right off). At camp, let socks and shoes dry and trade them out for cheap footwear. Always bring extra socks of course. I have yet to spring for sealskins, might do that at some point. Winter months...that’s another story involving water shoes and insulated waterproof boots...not sure why I torture myself lol.
Sounds crazy, but I use "ballet flats" for camp shoes. They are lightweight, foldable women's shoes that they put in their purse for convenience usually.
I think that translates well to UL backpacking. Of course, as a dude, I had to check my ego and not care. Great option if you have reasonably small feet to meet the sizes. I wish the companies that make these would understand the niche market and make more sizes available.
My Merrell trail glove 4s are 14 oz for a 10.5. Not the lightest but great for setting up camp, getting water or collecting firewood. Wide toe box like Altras and good soul for hiking. If you have multiple water crossings in close proximity, you can keep them on the whole time because they can handle some trail miles. 😊❤️🇺🇸⛺️🌄
I got these things off Amazon that were like socks but with shoe soles. Kinda heavy feeling but did water crossing like a champ. Fit my feet like gloves
I hate having a strap between my toes, so I found a pair of all rubber slip-ons from Under Armour. They are great pool/shower shoes, or for around camp. Just a bit heavier than cheap flip flops.
I used to own those Keen sandals. They were so comfortable, but caused my feet to stink. Like, my wife would ask me to wash my feet once I took them off if I wore them for an hour to walk the dog stink. I’m in my 40s, and they’re the only shoes I’ve ever owned that cause that problem.
I just purchased Body Glove 3T heros. Got mainly for whitewater kayaking, but figured they'd also make a good water crossing or camp shoe. Not sure of the weight yet as I'm still waiting for them to arrive.
Not really related to camp shoes but I wore waterproof socks on my last overnighter and just plowed through creek crossings and wet areas on the trail. Cheap light pair of slides for camp. Can't do the sandals I hate things between my toes
I do like the Keen Uneeks for water crossings but I probably wouldn't lug them on a long trip... I think they go about 12 oz. each
If you can't see or don't know what is in the water just use your hiking shoes and use your lightwieght flip flops for camp, stop over thinking.
For camp shoes I've been using Sanuk Vagabond slip-on, same pair for at least three years now. There getting pretty worn now but they'e only about $40 so not bad for three years. I prefer to have some kind of outer sole and toe coverage, so sandals are out for me. Not good for stream crossing, but here in Southern California, we just hop across our streams. If I'm in the Sierras I'll bring toe covered water shoes as my camp shoe.
Wore my crocs in the mountains and used them for water crossings and fishing in the the water for 3 days! Highly recommend.. downside mossy rocks will bring you down.
Camp shoe: Moccasins or leather slippers, about 16 oz. not for river xing...
I found some cheap foam sandals and then trimmed them down to reduce the weight from 170g to just under 100g per sandal. Not particularly durable but light and multipurpose
Check out the Aleader xdrain classic 2.0 water shoes. Around $40 and weight in at 11.8 oz for the pair.
Sir thats not a shoe, thats an insole with straps, I do hope you didn't pay more than $10 for what is essentially no more than $5 worth of material.
Thanks for the topic. This will help me to settle on my camping shoe. Thanks.
Source sandals are the same weight as zeros and much more robust and comfortable
Super cheap flip flops are great
String round the back will keep them on in water
I remember IBTAT loosing a crock at a water crossing. They do float so you may be able to find it down stream if lucky.
I love good quality flipflops as camp shoes, as long as it's not freezing, but using an old insole with cordage is a very interesting idea and a lot lighter. I'll have to google that. I also have a rugged pair of hiking sandals I could use for water crossings, or just keep them on all day. Hope you can get back out there soon. I know I will!
I use your exact .99 flip flop. Also carry 2 diy shock cord loops for water X’s. I just slip over my ankle, twist loop into an X, slide other end of loop under heel end of flip flop.
In a pinch, I’ve used larger rubber bands before.
Ps. Recommendations for fanny packs- Thrupack, Lite AF 🤪
Lovely Video! Thanks for uploading. Can't wait to see more videos 👍
A lot of people don’t bring camp shoes to save weight . . . Not me. I hate hiking with wet feet, so I bring shoes for crossing water
Just weighed one of my Z trail sandals - 5.45 oz, size 10 men's. They re-sized them recently I believe, guessing you would take the 10, though not positive. It's the 2020 model Z trail, just bought them a month ago. I too have an older Z-Trek in a 9. I also wear Xero Prio shoes for most things, just finished a hike in them today, can't say enough good things about the feel they give me. I enjoyed your Z-trek vid by the way, felt like you were speaking my truth on them straight down the line !!
Not keen on the Crocs for water - The flow can suck those babies right off.
Ok so I however just stay in my altras and don’t do camp shoes but we did a weekend at dolly sods this past weekend, so water levels were thigh high at the red creek pass so one of our guys had gortex boots he couldn’t get wet and his crocs worked great he said. Water was moving and they stayed put and worked well. Great video so keep me coming!
Hey Bryce. Thanks for the advice on the Xero Z Trail sandals. I had been shopping around for a pair in this category. Watching your footage (sorry for pun) of wearing them and your comments cinched the decision. They arrived today and feel great. My feet couldn't do a 10+ mile hike in them, but they are perfect for everyday use along as a camp/water crossing shoe. Thanks again.
i use the DLGJPA water shoes i got from amazon. 4.5 oz each.
So messed up! I got my ztreks in the mail Friday. They seem pretty awesome to me. I have always used crocks but they just take up too much room.
Tevas make a nice sandal, I have owned a pair for over 7 years. Great for water crossings! Super light.
The crocs bistro have a sole with siping that make them more slip resistant