A pair of specialised camp slippers is the golden chalice you never knew you were on a quest to find. At the end of a long day on the trails, there's no greater pleasure than that beautiful moment where the boots and socks finally come off. Well, except the pleasure of slipping your feet into something even more comfortable.
From caravans and campsites to high mountain hostels, there are plenty of places where a plush pair of slippers is a real treat. Nice as they are to wear, they can also be extremely important when it comes to keeping your toes at a safely warm temperature in icy climates. Most socks can't cut it solo, but even if your hiking boots are super comfortable, it's never fun being permanently stuck in them. Enter: the humble slipper.
Our Shortlist
The North Face Base Camp Mules – Best in test
Crocs Classis Clog – Best value
Montane Anti-Freeze Down Slippers – Best insulation
Rab Outpost Hut Boot – Best fleece slippers
Exped Camp Booty – Most comfortable slippers
Adidas Adilette Aqua Slides – Best slippers for quick trips
We aimed for a wide range of choices on this group test. While it is tempting to always go for top-of-the-line products, we recognise that not everybody is plopping down in a camping chair to have a quick read at the summit of Snowdon. Take a look at our picks and see which slipper bets suits your style.
The Best Camping Slippers in Detail
Best in Test
www.cotswoldoutdoor.com
Description
For wandering around camp – either on a fully serviced campsite or a high wild camp – it’s nice to
Pros
- Protective construction
- Sustainable recycling process
- Good grip on difficult terrain
Cons
- Not the most insulating slipper
Best Value
www.crocs.co.uk
Description
Park your opinions a moment and go with us on this. Yes, Crocs are regularly put forward as the
Pros
- Provides excellent airflow to feet
- Surprisingly robust
- Frankly, sick looking
Cons
- Wearing barefoot can get uncomfortable
- Slippery on wet terrain
Best insulating slippers
www.sportsshoes.com
Description
If you’re after a pair of ‘just-in-case’ slippers, these are perfect. Their down insulation (90/10
Pros
- Excellent insulation
- Stuffs well
- Great eco-credentials
Cons
- Foam outsole can easily get wet
Best fleece slippers
www.sportsshoes.com
Description
Although these fleecy boots may look a little more like a typical pair of house slippers, they
Pros
- Fast-drying fleece material
- Very comfortable and cozy
Cons
- Weak soles won't stand up to rough ground
Most comfortable slippers
www.alpinetrek.co.uk
Description
Almost all of this ankle-high camp shoe is made from recycled materials, including the outer, the
Pros
- Ankle strap provides great fit
- Extremely packable
- Comfortable and soft interior
Cons
- Wouldn't wear them around any moisture
Best for quick use
www.adidas.co.uk
Description
Campers have been making use of sliders and flip-flops for years. This kind of footwear is ideal
Pros
- Very easy to slip on and off
- Quick drying, water resistant material
- Allow pleasant airflow
Cons
- Don't pack down any smaller
- Youths may attempt to fist-bump you
What to look for when buying camping slippers
Materials
Unlike more consistent and focused gear like waterproof jackets, slippers can be constructed from a hugely diverse pool of materials. If you want to be able to traverse dewy grass or wet rock, be sure that you're picking something with a durable sole, EVA being the staple choice since it's more flexible and comfortable than traditional rubber.
Any slippers opting for 100% EVA construction are going to leave your toes blue in any cold climates. Be sure to consider how insulating your material is. Polyester isn't super protective, but it is breathable and would suit most seasons.
If you're heading anywhere icy, fleece slippers are the bare minimum choice, and you should certainly consider going all-in on a down insulation slipper like our Montane choice.
Style
As with material, your choice of slipper style should reflect the context in which you'll be wearing them. If you know that you're headed for mountain huts, then your options can range from a cozy fleece boot with a fabric sole to a minimalist slider for shuffling around on a less-than-clean floor.
Remember that big booty slippers can get seriously warm, so if you're more of a fair-weather camper, a more minimalist option would be best. In fact, you might even want to consider a pair of hiking sandals, some of which are also ideal for lounging around the campsite - though they won't save you from bug bites!