10 Best Backpacking Camp Shoes 2025 in the United States

The NORTIV 8 Men's Waterproof Hiking Boots are a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts involved in activities like hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering. The boots feature a waterproof membrane that ensures your feet stay dry in wet conditions, making them reliable for various weather scenarios. The rubber toe cap and reinforced heel offer additional protection and stability, which are essential for rugged terrains.

The use of soft suede leather enhances the durability of the boots, while the rugged rubber outsole with multi-directional traction (MDT) provides excellent grip on different surfaces, preventing slips and falls. The cushioned, shock-absorbent MD midsole and removable insole contribute to the comfort, making long treks more manageable.

However, the boots' packability might be a concern due to their bulkiness, which could take up significant space in a backpack. Additionally, while the weight isn't specified, mid trekking boots are typically heavier than lighter camp shoes, which may affect long-distance backpackers seeking minimal weight. Despite these potential drawbacks, the NORTIV 8 boots are versatile and cater to a wide range of outdoor activities, providing a balanced mix of protection, support, and comfort.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes offer many features that are beneficial for backpacking camp shoes. One of the standout strengths is their waterproof capability, ensuring feet stay dry and comfortable in various conditions. The shoes are made from durable premium leather and performance mesh, which should provide good longevity. They also include a high abrasion rubber toe guard, adding extra durability on rough terrains. Comfort is addressed with a removable footbed that provides arch support and cushioning that maintains its resilience over time, plus a generous fit for toes to spread out comfortably.

The traction is excellent, featuring KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber and 4mm multi-directional lugs that offer a solid grip in muddy and rocky environments. Additionally, the shoes are environmentally conscious, using leather sourced from certified tanneries and an eco-friendly DWR treatment to keep the leather in good condition.

These shoes are well-suited for those needing durable and comfortable footwear with excellent traction, though they might not be the most lightweight or compact option for backpacking.

The Merrell Men's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for backpacking and camping enthusiasts. Weighing in at 1.1 pounds, it offers a lightweight option that won't add much burden to your pack. The comfort level is high, thanks to the breathable mesh lining and the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole, which offers medium support and reinforced heel cushioning. Additionally, the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel helps absorb shock, adding to the comfort and stability during long hikes.

The pigskin leather and mesh upper contribute to both durability and breathability, ensuring the shoes can withstand various terrains while keeping your feet cool. The molded nylon arch shank and lightweight EVA foam midsole further enhance stability and comfort, making these shoes versatile for different activities. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole provides excellent traction, which is crucial for navigating uneven or slippery surfaces.

However, being a low-top shoe, it may not offer as much ankle support as high-top models, which could be a consideration for those tackling particularly rugged trails. Packability is decent due to its relatively compact size and lightweight nature, but it might not be the best for those looking for the absolute lightest and most packable options. In summary, the Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe excels in comfort, durability, and traction, making it a reliable companion for most backpacking and camping adventures, though it may fall short in providing the highest level of ankle support.