Hiking, boating, swimming, drawing, painting, running, singing, climbing; when I think summer camp, the first thing I think of is I think of all the amazing “camp-only” activities that thousands of kids look forward to all year long. After spending five weeks as a counselor-in-training last summer, the second thing I think is shoes. Lots and lots of shoes. I taught courses ranging from beach volleyball to cooking, and my goal was to find the perfect footwear that transitioned smoothly between activities, so I didn’t have to lug three pairs of shoes around camp. After much trial and error, I present the ultimate list of summer camp shoes.
Sneakers: A staple in any counselor’s collection. Because I didn’t participate in many field sports, my Nikes spent most of the summer thrown under my bed. Nonetheless, they were a lifesaver for day hikes and nature walks. My friends who taught sports wore their sneakers into the dirt. No matter how little you anticipate needing sneakers, bring a pair along - you never know how often they’ll come in handy.
Hiking Boots: Hiking boots are a must for backpacking trips and more advanced day hikes. Advice: Don’t get cocky. Swallow your pride wear the boots, or you’ll be the CIT who underestimates the terrain, skids down a mountain, and still has the scars to prove it. My campers thought it was hilarious, and never let me hear the end of it. Bonus: If you’re lucky, you’ll end up with a sweet sock tan.
Crocs: These are the best for a counselor always on the lake. Crocs are easy to slip on and off, are completely waterproof, and are ridiculously comfortable, On rainy days, I was so grateful to have a pair of Crocs. Also, they’re pretty freaking fashionable. Bonus points: They also function as shower shoes, which are a necessity for the less-than-desirable camp showers.
Chacos: My holy grail camp shoe. Chacos are completely adjustable and waterproof. They have thick soles and deep treads that are perfect for everything from swimming to four-square to day hikes. Chacos have these really confusing yet amazing straps that make it easy to run without feeling like you’re going to twist an ankle; the straps also leave the BEST tan.
If you come to camp with nothing else, bring some really good shoes (I would also recommend clothes and bug spray). Then, get ready for the best summer of your life.
