#5 on this list
Mountain Clog
Bedrock Sandals
The Bedrock Sandals Mountain Clog is an unconventional piece of backcountry footwear built for people who want the airy, zero-drop ethos of minimalist sandals paired with complete toe protection. Constructed with a durable upper (available in synthetic or oiled leather varieties) and a deep, contoured PU footbed, the Mountain Clog locks down via Bedrock's proven three-point webbing adjustment and climbing-grade hardware. Performance in rocky, root-strewn camps is where this clog shines. Unlike open-toe sandals, the closed front keeps dirt, rocks, and stray sticks from battering your toes while gathering firewood in the dark. The Vibram Megagrip outsole provides exceptional friction on slick surfaces and loose soil. Independent reviews highlight its versatility as an expedition shoe that can handle dry camp chores, bicycle touring, and easy day hikes straight out of the tent. Weighing around 1 pound 9 ounces per pair, this is not an ultralight piece of kit. It occupies significant space and carries a high price tag near $160, making it an investment piece for serious outdoor enthusiasts rather than a budget throw-in. The wide, zero-drop footbed is also an acquired taste that may feel flat to hikers needing elevated arches. **Highlights** - Closed toe box protects against trail debris and stubbed toes - High-traction Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole - Secure three-point webbing system prevents heel slippage - Anatomical zero-drop footbed encourages natural foot movement - Robust materials built to endure multiple seasons of heavy abuse **Watch-outs** - Heavy and space-consuming for minimalist pack loads - High initial cost compared to standard camp shoes - Requires an adjustment period for those unaccustomed to zero-drop soles
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#6 on this list
Arizona Essentials EVA
Birkenstock
The Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA translates the iconic two-strap anatomical sandal into a one-piece, waterproof molded EVA design. Weighing approximately 8 ounces per pair and retailing for around $50, this model has earned a devoted following among backpackers and weekend campers looking for orthopedic support without the water sensitivity or weight of traditional cork-and-leather footwear. Unlike traditional Birkenstocks, the EVA version is completely immune to water, mud, and river soakings. It washes clean with a splash of water and dries almost instantly. The molded footbed provides substantial arch support, a deep heel cup, and a pronounced toe bar, giving tired feet familiar structural relief after miles spent inside flat trail runners. Furthermore, the dual wide straps accommodate thick wool camp socks with ease. The main drawback stems from the nature of molded EVA foam. While it delivers excellent lightweight shock absorption, it offers minimal grip on wet, mossy river rocks or steep muddy banks. In addition, leaving these sandals exposed to high ambient heat or direct sunlight—such as inside a hot vehicle or baking on a rock—can cause the EVA material to shrink and warp permanently. **Highlights** - Ultralight one-piece molded EVA construction (around 8 oz per pair) - Built-in anatomical arch support and deep heel cup - Fully waterproof, washable, and quick to dry - Dual-strap design accommodates thick socks easily - Very accessible price point around $50 **Watch-outs** - Sole can be slick on wet, smooth surfaces - Susceptible to shrinking and warping if left in intense direct heat - Rigid sole shape makes them awkward to compress in a small pack
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Mountain Clog | Arizona Essentials EVA |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1 lb 9 oz (pair, size 9) | — |
| MSRP | Around $160 | — |
| Outsole | Vibram Megagrip rubber | — |
| Footbed | Anatomical zero-drop polyurethane | — |
| Closure | Three-point webbing harness | — |
| Upper Options | Oiled leather or synthetic suede | — |
| Weight (Pair) | — | Approximately 8 oz (varies by size) |
| Primary Material | — | One-piece injection-molded EVA foam |
| Retail Price | — | Around $50 |
| Closure Type | — | Dual adjustable plastic pin buckles |
| Water Resistance | — | Fully waterproof and non-absorbent |
| Footbed Profile | — | Anatomical arch support with deep heel cup |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Mountain Clog
- Vibram Megagrip outsole delivers class-leading traction on slick rock and mud
- Three-point harness holds heel securely during movement across uneven terrain
- Enclosed toe box shields feet from sharp camp debris, roots, and rocks
- Anatomical zero-drop platform encourages natural toe splay and post-hike recovery
- Substantial weight at 1 lb 9 oz limits appeal for standard backpacking
- High retail price around $160 is steep for a camp shoe
- Zero-drop footbed lacks arch support and can cause fatigue for unaccustomed arches
Arizona Essentials EVA
- Significantly lighter than traditional cork Birkenstocks at around 8 oz per pair
- Pronounced arch support and deep heel cup provide structured recovery for tired feet
- Completely waterproof material rinses clean and dries in minutes
- Dual adjustable straps easily accommodate thick wool camp socks
- Shallow foam outsole lacks traction on wet, mossy, or steep terrain
- EVA material shrinks and deforms permanently if exposed to intense heat
- Rigid footbed takes up substantial volume when lashed to a pack
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