After long treks or bike rides, hikers need comfortable, lightweight footwear for relaxing at base camp — but many options add unwanted weight or bulk. Zpacks’ new Deluxe Camp Shoes deliver a natural fit and durable design while weighing just 2.5 ounces, making them an ideal packable companion for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Weigh less than 3 ounces yet fully protective
- Closed heel design prevents slipping and debris entry
- Compact enough to fit in a pocket or small pack space
What happened
Zpacks has launched the Deluxe Camp Shoes, an updated version of their ultralight packable footwear designed for use around camp after a day of hiking or biking. These new shoes build on the original 2-ounce Camp Shoes by adding a closed heel and a slightly thicker sole for enhanced comfort and protection. Despite these improvements, the shoes still weigh only about 2.5 ounces in a small size—barely more than the original version.
The Deluxe Camp Shoes use a ripstop nylon heel cup, Lycra stretch panels, and a pull-cord closure for a snug, secure fit that keeps dirt and rocks out. They provide a cushioned feel thanks to a modest 1mm increase in sole foam thickness, with the option to add a $10 insole for added padding. The shoes roll or fold down to a palm-sized bundle, allowing them to fit easily in a backpack, jacket pocket, or even pants pocket.
Why it feels good
The new closed heel design offers a more natural and familiar silhouette compared to the original heel-cord style, improving comfort and stability around camp. This thoughtful update means the shoes stay firmly on your feet without the slipping or awkward shape that some found with the original model. It also better protects your feet from dirt and debris encountered at campsites.
The increased sole cushioning softens the impact of walking on uneven ground or rocky terrain, helping tired feet recover after long, demanding hikes or rides. At less than 3 ounces, these shoes are extremely light and highly packable, making them less of a burden to carry than bulkier casual camp footwear like flip-flops. The Deluxe shoes blend minimalist weight with functional comfort, addressing a common outdoor gear dilemma.
What to enjoy or watch next
Adventurers looking for ultralight, space-saving camp footwear will appreciate the Deluxe Camp Shoes’ balance of minimal weight and enhanced protection. Available in various sizes and colors for $39.95, they are an affordable upgrade over the original model. Outdoor retailers and enthusiasts are likely to keep an eye on how these shoes perform in the field and whether they become a staple for thru-hikers, bikepackers, and minimalist campers.
Zpacks also offers a $10 insole to boost comfort even further, though it’s specifically designed for the Deluxe model due to the heel design. Whether you’re packing light on a multi-day trek or just want a comfortable alternative to riding shoes or boots around camp, these compact shoes present a promising option. Keep watching for user reviews and potential future iterations that might refine comfort or grip even more.