Non Ultralight Sandals That You Should Avoid

This section highlights a few popular backpacking sandals that we strongly recommend against bringing. When referring to Chacos, Tevas, and Crocs, we’re referring to their flagship models though marginally lighter options do exist.

Why not Chacos?

Chacos are the number one offender of this genre. Yes, they’re comfortable, durable, good looking, and popular with the outdoorsy crowd. But they weigh nearly two pounds, which is simply unacceptable from a backpacking perspective. My entire two person tent including stakes and footprint weighs less than a pair of Chacos! For that same weight, I could carry a complete 30 degree sleep system, including quilt and pad. Or a 60L ultralight backpack. Stop. Bringing. Chacos!

Why not Crocs?

Aside from being twice the average weight of ultralight sandals in this guide, Crocs are incredibly bulky. One Croc Clog by itself takes up as much space as four minimalist ultralight sandals, and my pair of size 12 clogs are more voluminous than my tent. Yes, they’re cheap, yes they’re comfy. Yes, they’re popular. But they’re also not very breathable, and when it comes to allowing your skin recovery time outside of shoes, we recommend airier footwear.

Why not Tevas?

While they don’t make the cut, Tevas are at least a step in the right direction compared to the other two. The Classic Universal is lighter than Crocs, and closer to 2x, rather than 3-4x the bulk of minimalist sandals. While they are also nearly 2x the weight of the average minimalist ultralight sandals in this guide, they’re only a bit heavier than the heaviest lightweight models. But ask yourself, what are Tevas giving you that more minimalist sandals aren’t? There’s just not a great reason to add the bulk and weight when you could carry less for equal performance. Are they horrible backpacking sandals no. But are there better? Definitely!

Lastly, Tevas Hurricane Series are one of my favorites for walking around casually in summer, but they’re even heavier and bulkier than the Universals thanks to the enhanced tread, thus worse for backpacking because it’s not needed for use around camp, and just adds extra weight.

What about flip flops?

Okay, so you can bring flip flops, and they’re better than Crocs, Chacos, or Tevas. When and if we’re bringing sandals for backpacking, we want them to be functional enough to safely handle tasks like climbing down a river bank to fill up water, or ascending the hillock above camp for sunset. If you really search around, you will probably be able to find a pair of flip flops that are ounce-for-ounce similar to minimalist ultralight sandals, like this pair from Helly Hansen. In most ways, the cheaper the better, as it usually implies a thinner sole, and lighter weight end product. However, flip flops are far less secure, due to the lack of heel attachment. And functionally, that just makes them a lot worse than the barefoot style walking sandals we tend to prefer. If you want something like a flip flops, only better, choose Birkenstock Arizona EVA.