#9 on this list
Ultralight Camp Shoes
Zpacks
The Zpacks Ultralight Camp Shoes are engineered specifically for gram-counting thru-hikers who view camp shoes as an unnecessary luxury unless they weigh virtually nothing. At an astounding 2.3 ounces for the pair, these spartan slip-ons take up less pack weight and volume than an extra pair of wool socks. They are designed to do exactly one job: keep your clean camp socks out of dirt, pine needles, and light moisture around your shelter. The construction consists of a simple die-cut closed-cell foam sole paired with an elasticized, minimalist upper cord assembly. There are no thick midsoles, heavy rubber treads, or buckles. Hikers love them because they can slide out of soaking-wet trail runners, put on a dry pair of sleeping socks, slip into the Zpacks shoes, and attend to camp chores like cooking or hanging a bear bag without re-entering wet footwear. The limitations are obvious and deliberate. There is practically no traction on wet rock or mud, zero arch support, and negligible protection if you accidentally kick a root or sharp rock. They are essentially minimalist campsite slippers, not footwear intended for hiking, river crossings, or rugged terrain. If you venture far from your shelter, you must step cautiously. **Highlights** - Featherweight construction at just 2.3 ounces per pair - Ultra-compact profile rolls up or slides into any pack pocket - Closed-cell foam sole shields dry socks from damp forest ground - Elastic cord system keeps foot seated without excess bulk - Perfect luxury item for strict ultralight gear philosophies **Watch-outs** - Extremely minimal traction on slick or inclined surfaces - Thin foam offers negligible protection against sharp rocks and sticks - Not durable enough for extensive walking beyond basic camp chores
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#10 on this list
Tundra Trax Booties
OR
Outdoor Research's Tundra Trax Booties are tailored for alpine basecamps, ski touring huts, and winter tent platforms where cold and moisture collide. Unlike down-filled slippers that lose all insulating capacity when exposed to wet snow, the Tundra Trax uses synthetic PrimaLoft Gold insulation with Cross Core technology, retaining warmth even if moisture penetrates the shell. The outer shell is a durable, water-resistant 100% recycled nylon ripstop. The real strength of the Tundra Trax lies in its integrated rubber sole. Rather than using flimsy textured fabric, Outdoor Research equipped the bootie with a rugged, slip-resistant EVA and rubber outsole that handles icy walkways, packed snow, and frozen ground outside mountain cabins. An elasticized cuff and drawcord cinch keep cold drafts from sinking down your shins, while the memory-foam insole cushions cold, weary feet. At approximately 1 pound 3.7 ounces for the men's version, they are substantially heavier and bulkier than ultralight down slippers. They do not compress into a fist-sized ball, requiring dedicated space in a winter backpack. However, for hut trips, winter overnights, and car camping in sub-freezing weather where conditions are wet and snowy, the water-resilient synthetic fill provides invaluable peace of mind. **Highlights** - PrimaLoft Gold insulation maintains warmth even if damp - Grippy rubber outsole handles snow, ice, and cabin decks - Durable water-resistant recycled nylon ripstop upper - Memory foam insole provides supportive, warm underfoot insulation - Drawcord ankle cinch seals out drafts and spindrift **Watch-outs** - Heavy and bulky compared to down-insulated booties - Takes up considerable volume inside a winter pack - Overly warm for standard three-season camping
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Ultralight Camp Shoes | Tundra Trax Booties |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.3 oz (pair) | — |
| Footwear Style | Ultralight slip-on | — |
| Sole Material | Closed-cell foam | — |
| Retention System | Elastic cord lacing | — |
| Packed Profile | Lays completely flat | — |
| MSRP | — | Around $99 |
| Men's Weight | — | 1 lb 3.7 oz per pair |
| Women's Weight | — | 1 lb 0.1 oz per pair |
| Insulation | — | PrimaLoft Gold with Cross Core |
| Shell | — | 100% recycled nylon ripstop |
| Outsole | — | EVA and slip-resistant rubber |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Ultralight Camp Shoes
- Weighs only 2.3 ounces, making it acceptable for strict ultralight base weights
- Packs completely flat in exterior pack pockets without taking up volume
- Closed-cell foam does not absorb water and wipes dry instantly
- Protects clean camp socks from damp soil while trail runners air out
- Negligible traction on wet roots, slick mud, and sloping granite
- Zero puncture protection against sharp thorns, roots, or jagged gravel
- Lacks lateral stability, causing the foot to slip off the pad on uneven ground
Tundra Trax Booties
- PrimaLoft Gold insulation preserves warmth even when wet from snow
- Durable rubber outsole provides grip on ice, snow, and cabin decks
- Cushioned memory foam insole blocks ground-level conductive cold
- Ankle drawcord cinch effectively seals out drafts and spindrift
- Substantially heavier and bulkier than ultralight down alternatives
- Too warm and structured for three-season backpacking kits
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