Non-Slip Camp Shoes

[Black_Fly]

I’ve been using some lightweight waterproof high tops for camp shoes and they’re good except they are like wearing ice skates on damp rocks. I fell last year and nearly lost it this year on several occasions. So, Im wondering what folks depend on to keep upright and dry in camp.

 

[Gerald]

https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/shoes-and-boots/best-water-shoes-men

 

[Alan Gage]

Wet, lichen covered rocks, are always a hazard for me as well. Shoe soles come in many different configurations, some of which are more sticky than others. A lot of times I'll see people recommend something like "vibram soles are the best" but vibram makes a lot of different soles, some of which are great on slippery surfaces and some that are not.

You'll want to try and find something that specifically states that it has a sticky sole. Many water shoes do and also approach shoes for climbing. Some manufacturers list the specific sole the shoes use, which can be a help.

Here is a link to Vibram that shows their variety and might help narrow down shoe choices:

Vibram Sole Technology | Vibram

Visit the website to discover all the shoes with Vibram technology soles, perfect for dealing with all kinds of situations and adhering to any surface.

www.vibram.com

Alan

 

[Erica]

This is what I wear:

Merrell Moab

These are my camp and portage shoes.

There is a men’s version too. I’ve never found anything totally slip-proof. I spent a lot of time slipping, I mean walking, on wet rocks this summer. These “stuck” better than the water shoes or booties, when I used them.

 

[Rusty Ole' Bucket]

This is what I wear:

Merrell Moab

These are my camp and portage shoes.

There is a men’s version too. I’ve never found anything totally slip-proof. I spent a lot of time slipping, I mean walking, on wet rocks this summer. These “stuck” better than the water shoes or booties, when I used them.

+1 I'm a Merrell fan too. I use water shoes on the boat then those in camp or hiking, just like Erica. I prefer the low quarter version of the Moab. Their QC dropped off for a few years, but they seem to be back on track after the last couple of pairs I had.

 

[Gamma1214]

I'm always tempted to take a pair of sandals for around camp but, having broken my right ankle twice, it's become arthritic and I now wear boots with ankle support everywhere I go.

Around home, it's leather & steel toes but for backpacking & canoe trips, I use Salomon X Ultras (with an additional ankle brace).

Honestly, they're not as waterproof as I'd like them (I slather them with homemade seam sealer before every trip) but they're comfortable, they've held up well, are lightweight & have a pretty aggressive sole. I thought they were pricey when I bought them but I'd buy them again without hesitation.

Note: They tend to run really small... figure on ordering at least one size larger than your shoe size, especially if you wear heavier wool socks.

 

[Erica]

Around home, it's leather & steel toes but for backpacking & canoe trips, I use Salomon X Ultras (with an additional ankle brace).

What is your ankle brace? My broken right ankle tends to roll on uneven surfaces.

 

[yknpdlr]

This is what I wear:

Merrell Moab

These are my camp and portage shoes.

I have liked and worn Merrell shoes for many years. There was a heavier water shoe available that I bought for hopping out of the canoe in the water and for heavy portaging while canoe racing. It still has Yukon silt embedded in it. Two other lighter pair types I use for the Adirodack races and general wet foot canoeing use. Low cut Moabs are my daily summer shoe. I have several pairs of those also in various conditions of age and wear. The slip-on Jungle Moc is my indoor and walk out to the mailbox shoe. I have found that in any type of shoe, Merrells have always fit my feet the best.

 

[Gamma1214]

What is your ankle brace? My broken right ankle tends to roll on uneven surfaces.

I use a Mueller lace-up. I had the local drugstore order it but I'm sure it's available online if that's your preference.

It works well & is comfortable but you'll want to tie it off-center or the knot will likely rub under the tongue or your boot (I tie the boot laces off center to the other side)

 

[scoutergriz]

the only real cure for moss or algae covered wet rocks is good old wool felt, but it's also remarkably nasty on mud- it works because the tiny voids and coarse fibers cut into and grab the rock through the algae, but those same voids and fibers clog extremely easily with mud or soil.
I also use the Merrills in both hikers and water shoes, as they seem to work the best out of all the conventional shoes, but the ideal would be a shoe with a conventional sole- but with something like a felt covered "icer" that could be put on easily and stayed secure