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Backpacker Magazine – Online Exclusive
Gear Review: Flip-Flops
These four flip flops are made with the outdoor enthusiast in mind–massaging footbeds, illuminating LED lights, sturdy straps, and rock-solid arch support are just some of their sporty features.
[post-sport foot massagers]
The North Face Basecamp
If your immediate post-hike ritual involves ditching the hiking boots for a comfy camp shoe, these sandals should be ready and waiting outside the tent. Their magic lies in an egg-crate-like footbed made of EVA foam that subtly massages the bottom of the foot. The rippled foam further prevents feet from sliding around even when hot and sweaty. The PVC-free Hypalon (a form of rubber resistant to UV rays & temperature extremes) straps are jersey lined and our testers experienced no rubbing or blisters, even after the first wear. If keeping your sandals clean is a concern, opt for sandals with darker straps. One downside: There is little arch support and several testers found long walks uncomfortable. But for that post-hike trek from camp chair to cooler, these sandals shine.
The Stats:
Cost: $28
Weight: 15 oz. (Women's 10)
Women’s 6-11; Men’s 8-14
www.thenorthface.com
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READERS COMMENTS
Best pair of flip flops I have ever put on are the Montrail Molokai. Amazing arch support and they are also heat moldable. They make the $60 price tag well worth it.
Posted: Jul 19, 2011 Jason
I purchased the Chaco's at the indecent price of $50 just for the arch support. These were by far the most uncomfortable flip-flops ever. The arch support was rock solid with no give and the straps gave me blisters on the top of my feet. Save your money!
Posted: Aug 07, 2010 Alicia Lopez
really, i always wear flip flops when not on the trail. and when i'm in sand or taking a break it's the $10 ones from who knows where and they work perfectly fine.
Posted: Jul 27, 2010 nikki o
Yeah, I have a nice $30 pair of flip flops that weigh 1 pound too. Bought a generic pair at a local drug store for $3 that weigh 8oz. That's 8oz for a pair of mens size 11.
Posted: Jul 21, 2010 Leaf
Great price, extremely comfortable. I bought 2 pair. Love 'em. I have Reef, Teva, Sanduk and Rainbow sandals and these are just as good if not better than some.
Posted: Jul 20, 2010 Walter
yikes... and I thought Crocs were expensive :(
I wear Crocs, which are extremely light (extra bonus when packing!), comfortable and fairly affordable.
I think speedo has some similar flip flops with support and sole for <$20
Posted: Jul 20, 2010 Jo
I thru-hiked the A.T. in '08 and my trailshoes, which I got on sale for less than these flip-flops. Is this some kind of joke?!!
Posted: Jul 20, 2010 "Old Buzzard"
Reef Fanning are the way to go. They $46, have a bottle opener on the bottom, air cushioned heel, and soft neoprene strap. I am on my 7th summer with a pair, and will be replacing them with the same ones next year.
Posted: Jul 20, 2010 TNFGuy
maybe those old navy sandals for a buck will do the job. :)
Posted: Jul 15, 2010 Joe
$28 dollars for flip flops? really? when did camping start becoming an expensive weekend with the family? i guess when someone started making it "trendy."
Posted: Jul 13, 2010 John Taylor
No thanks ... I'll take a $10 pair of flip flops and a $40 headlamp over Teva's flip flops any day. I can see the LED light failing in short order.
Posted: Jul 13, 2010 ssejhill
At that price you have one of the most value driven options around. "Fun"ctional is for me. Ocean Minded has the spirit and the goods!
Posted: Jul 12, 2010 Rich Pavel
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