I Tried the Controversial Camping Shoes That Outdoor Enthusiasts Can’t Stop Wearing
Updated: Mar. 13, 2024
My hunt for the perfect camping shoe is over.
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Let’s not sugarcoat it—for many people, the Teva ReEmber shoes are ugly. The first time I saw them, I actually recoiled—until I saw them (post after post) on Instagram, both from camping influencers and regular campground weekend warriors like myself. I realized either my fashion taste is completely off base, or these shoes are the new Birkenstocks: ugly to some, status symbol to many.
So after much resistance, I decided to try the shoes out for myself, and the results surprised me. Read on for my Teva ReEmber review.
What are Teva ReEmber camping shoes?
Teva ReEmber shoes are part slipper, part walking shoe, designed to be worn outdoors. They feature a rugged, textured sole, reinforced toebox, quilted upper and neoprene-style collapsible heel. A microfiber lining promises cushioned comfort and moisture-wicking, and recycled materials throughout the shoe aim to reduce their carbon footprint.
These shoes were made with camping in mind, from their easy on/off design, water-resistant treatment and rubber sole that promises to reduce slipping on dirt paths. Whether you’re cozying up to the fire or venturing off on an adventure, the Teva ReEmbers claim to be the shoes for the job.
Teva ReEmber product features
Visually, the Teva ReEmber camping shoes look much different than traditional shoes. That’s thanks to a wide variety of thoughtful details.
- Textured, slip-resistant sole
- Quilted ripstop upper
- Water-resistant treatment
- Collapsible neoprene-like heel
- Easy-on loop
- Lightly cushioned footbed
- Moisture-wicking microfiber lining
- Treated with an antimicrobial to reduce foot odors
- Recycled materials throughout
- Available in 20 colors
How we tested it
Even though my style tends to run full “granola” while camping, I was resistant to these alien-looking shoes. But the minute I slipped them on, I turned from skeptic to trepidatious fan. I’ve worn my Teva ReEmbers on multiple camping trips so far—in various locations and a wide range of weather—and they’ve officially been added to my camping shoe lineup.
I tested the shoes in a variety of environments: around the campsite and surrounding woods, on dewy morning walks around a lake, padding around the dusty, gravel-paved campground and back in the real world, packing and unpacking from my trips. I wore them while playing camping games, doing some camp cooking and just sitting around the fire swapping campfire stories. Then, when they were sufficiently dirty, I threw them in the wash to see how they’d clean up.
My first impressions: The ReEmbers are more slipper than shoe, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing when it comes to camping shoes. I typically wear either hiking boots or Birkenstock EVA sandals while camping, but neither is ideal—hiking boots are bulky and difficult to take on and off, and the Birks leave your feet vulnerable to dirt and moisture. I found the ReEmbers to be the perfect marriage between the two shoes. They keep your feet dry and clean, and they’re quick and easy to slip into.
One of my biggest camping complaints is that when you’re popping in and out of the tent to grab an item or make a quick change, you need to completely remove your shoes to avoid tracking dirt inside—and you need to do it fast in order to keep mosquitoes and other pests out of the tent. The Tevas effectively solve this problem, thanks to their easy-on-and-off design. I can slip them off, hop into the tent and close it, then open the tent and slide back into the shoes and zip up in a matter of two or three valuable seconds.
The Tevas’ waterproof material is a practical touch that I tested in a few ways. First, I splashed a little water on them while washing the dishes. They dried quickly, and my feet didn’t feel the wetness at all. Then, I wore them during a full-on rainstorm. They did stay wet longer, but my feet still felt dry and toasty inside, so I didn’t mind the exterior dampness. The downside of the water-resistant treatment is that the shoes can feel stuffy, and they don’t breathe well, so they’re not the best choice for muggy summer days.
I found that the textured soles keep the ReEmbers from feeling too slipper-like, and they add a grip that can be useful when walking on slick surfaces, like smooth rocks. They’re not exactly a proper hiking shoe—though Teva does make a more rugged ReEmber design for more serious outdoor pursuits—but I found them to be more than adequate for walking the dog or taking a stroll around the campground.
My one big complaint about the ReEmbers is that my pair ran about a half-size too large. I ordered my usual size, and while they’re still comfortable, my feet slide forward quite a bit when walking. It’s not that noticeable when just hanging around the campsite, enjoying a coffee in my camping chair, but becomes much more annoying when walking anywhere. But if you plan on wearing them with socks—which I will be, come fall—a roomier fit might be better.
After wearing my Tevas for multiple days, the feather gray color I chose showed its wear. They do stain and get dirty easily, so if this bothers you, I’d recommend choosing a darker color. But I simply threw mine into the washing machine (after removing the inserts), and they came out nearly good as new. A few small twigs stayed stuck in the treads and there are barely noticeable stains on the cushioned sole, but I plan on reserving these as camping-only shoes, so I don’t mind that they didn’t come out looking factory-new.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Easy on/off
- Water-resistant
- Durable
- Slip-resistant sole
- Machine washable
- Made of recycled materials
- Available in 20 colors and patterns
Cons
- The sizing can be inconsistent—I found them to be a half-size too big, but other reviewers note finding them too small
- Not very breathable, so may not be comfortable on hot days
- Lighter colors show wear more easily
FAQ
Is Teva ReEmber waterproof?
These shoes aren’t 100% waterproof, but their external ripstop material has been treated with a water-resistant coating. In my testing, I found they kept my feet dry even when I wore them when it was heavily raining.
How do you clean Teva ReEmbers?
You can handwash them or use the washing machine. While there are no specific cleaning instructions on Teva’s website, I tested the washing machine method and found it didn’t damage the shoe or show any other negative effects.
What other reviewers had to say
Whether you’re wearing them for comfort or style, at the campground or running errands, shoppers of all kinds have found plenty to love about Teva ReEmbers.
“I was recommended these shoes for late pregnancy and postpartum due to some swelling in my feet,” writes verified Amazon shopper, Lauren, in a review titled ‘Ugly-cute and very comfy.’ “They are incredibly soft, stretchy and comfy, plus the slide-on option is unreasonably handy. I have a feeling they’ll be even more handy once kiddo arrives and I literally have my hands full.”
“I have hardwood floors and have slipped and tumbled down all 18 of them when we first moved in,” writes five-star Amazon reviewer, Alexondra. “So no socks in the house anymore. But my feet get cold. These slippers solve that problem, plus they look more stylish than conventional slippers. I gifted a pair to at least six family and friends for Christmas and they rave about them, too!”
“I bought my first pair of Teva ReEmbers and then proceeded to buy them for my kids and as a gift for my stepfather,” Zachary Young writes on the Teva site. “My kids frequently leave their shoes untied. These shoes solved that issue. I pretty much wear these all the time unless I’m doing something where I need more support, but these fit the bill for most casual situations.”
“I originally bought these shoes to wear while rock climbing and at the gym, but they have quickly become an everyday shoe for me,” Allison writes in her Teva.com review. “They are extremely comfortable and go with almost everything. I can easily slip them on and off. The quilted style is very cute and the shape is not too bulky that they look like slippers.”
Final verdict
Though my camping wardrobe mainly consists of Patagonia Baggies and random assorted T-shirts, I was still hesitant to try Teva ReEmbers on a purely aesthetic basis. But once I wore them on the campground, they clicked—they just felt right. The fact that they performed exceedingly well only helped.
I went from a ReEmber doubter to a full-fledged fan in a matter of hours. I’ve found my perfect camping shoe, so don’t be surprised when you see me sporting them from National Parks to free campsites and beyond. Psst—these Tevas make an excellent gift for campers if you’re shopping for your favorite outdoor enthusiast.
Where to buy Teva ReEmber camping shoes
You can shop ReEmbers at a variety of sites: Backcountry (where they’re currently up to 35% off), Amazon (which boasts the widest number of colors available), Nordstrom, Zappos, DSW, REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods and on Teva’s website.
Don’t waste time being a fashion snob like me—shop your own pair of top-notch camping shoes in time for your next adventure.
