DIY Camp Shoes (January 2026) Guide

I’ve spent the last five years obsessing over pack weight.

Every ounce matters when you’re covering 20 miles a day.

DIY camp shoes are homemade ultralight footwear you can make from foam, insoles, and cordage that weigh under 2 ounces and cost next to nothing.

After testing dozens of methods on the Appalachian Trail and PCT sections, I’ve narrowed it down to four proven techniques that actually work in the field.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make each method, what materials you need, and which one is right for your style of backpacking.

Why Make Your Own Camp Shoes?

Let me explain why I switched from Crocs to DIY options.

Commercial camp shoes like Crocs weigh 12-16 ounces per pair.

That’s nearly a pound of pack weight for something you only wear around camp for a few hours each evening.

Premium ultralight options like Mayfly sandals weigh just 3-5 ounces but cost over $100.

I’ve made camp shoes that weigh 1.8 ounces using materials I already had at home.

The money savings add up too.

I’ve spent $26 total on materials for sandals that have lasted three hiking seasons.

That’s less than one pair of cheap camp sandals from a big-box store.

Materials and Tools Overview 2026

Before diving into specific methods, let me cover what you might need.

Sole Materials

• Closed-cell foam: From old sleeping pads, foam floor mats, or yoga mats. Lightweight and cheap but can lack durability.
• EVA foam sheets: Available at craft stores or online. More consistent than recycled foam.
• Coroplast (corrugated plastic): From yard signs – surprisingly durable and completely free if sourced properly.
• Insoles: Salvaged from old running shoes. Already foot-shaped with some arch support.
• Sole replacement rubber: Vibram sheets or shoe repair material. Most durable but most expensive.

Strap Materials

• Paracord 550: Strong, readily available, but can be uncomfortable against bare skin.
• Shock cord: Stretchy and comfortable, provides a snug fit without adjustments.
• Webbing: Flat nylon straps with ladder locks. Most adjustable system.
• Duct tape: For the simplest bootie method. Not adjustable but incredibly light.

Tools Needed

• Scissors or utility knife: For cutting soles to shape.
• Marker: For tracing your foot pattern.
• Hole punch or awl: For creating strap holes. A leather punch works best.
• Lighter: For melting cord ends to prevent fraying.
• Ruler: For measuring strap lengths.

Don’t have a hole punch?

I’ve used a screwdriver and hammer in a pinch.

A Phillips head screwdriver heated over a camp stove will punch through foam cleanly.

Method 1: Duct Tape Booties (Ultralightest)

This is the absolute lightest method I’ve found.

Duct tape booties weigh under 2 ounces per pair.

They cost about $3 if you need to buy the painter’s booties.

I’ve used these on three-season trips when every ounce counts.

Materials Needed

• Painter’s booties (disposable shoe covers)
• Duct tape (any color, preferably quality brand like Gorilla Tape)
• Scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Put on the painter’s bootie: Slide it over your socked foot. This creates your form.
2. Wrap the sole: Apply 2-3 layers of duct tape to the bottom of the bootie, covering completely from heel to toe. This creates your sole.
3. Reinforce high-wear areas: Add extra tape on the heel and ball of foot where most wear occurs.
4. Seal the edges: Wrap tape around the bottom edge to secure the sole to the upper.
5. Remove and repeat: Carefully slide off the bootie and repeat for the other foot.

My Experience with Duct Tape Booties

I made my first pair on a thru-hike of the John Muir Trail.

They lasted 7 days before showing significant wear.

The traction isn’t great on smooth surfaces.

I slipped once on wet granite but wasn’t hurt.

Pros

• Lightest possible option (under 2 oz)
• Cheapest method (under $5)
• Fastest to make (10-15 minutes)
• Packs down to nothing
• No tools required beyond scissors

Cons

• Poor durability (3-7 days typical lifespan)
• Limited traction on smooth surfaces
• Not adjustable once made
• Can feel flimsy
• Not suitable for rough terrain

Method 2: Foam Sandals with Shock Cord

This is the most popular method in the ultralight community.

Foam sandals offer better durability than duct tape while staying incredibly light.

I’ve seen dozens of variations on this design across Reddit forums and backpacking message boards.

Materials Needed

• Closed-cell foam (old sleeping pad or EVA foam sheet)
• Shock cord (1/8 inch diameter)
• Lighter or heat source
• Hole punch or awl
• Marker
• Scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Trace your foot: Stand on the foam and trace around your foot with a marker. Add 1/2 inch around the perimeter for strap clearance.
2. Cut the sole: Use scissors to cut out your foot pattern. This is your sandal base.
3. Mark strap holes: Mark three hole locations – one near your big toe, one near your pinky toe, and one on each side of the arch area.
4. Punch holes: Use your hole punch or awl to create holes where marked.
5. Thread shock cord: Cut a piece of shock cord about 30 inches long. Thread it through the holes in a figure-8 pattern, creating heel and toe straps.
6. Secure and adjust: Tie knots where the cord exits the sole. Melt ends with lighter to prevent fraying.
7. Test fit: Put on the sandal and adjust cord tension until snug but comfortable.
8. Trim excess: Once satisfied with fit, trim excess cord and re-melt ends.

My Experience with Foam Sandals

This is my go-to method for most trips.

I made a pair from an old Z-lite Sol sleeping pad that lasted an entire 200-mile section hike.

The shock cord system is comfortable and secure.

I can walk around camp, fetch water, and even take short bathroom trips without issues.

Pros

• Excellent weight-to-durability ratio (3-5 oz)
• Comfortable with shock cord straps
• Customizable fit
• Can use recycled materials
• Good packability
• Easy to repair in field

Cons

• Requires more tools and time (30-45 minutes)
• Foam can compress over time
• Traction varies by foam material
• Not suitable for sharp rocks
• Holes can tear out with rough use

Method 3: Insole Sandals (Recycled)

This method upcycles old running shoe insoles into functional camp footwear.

The advantage is that insoles are already foot-shaped and often have some arch support.

The rubberized surface provides better traction than bare foam.

Materials Needed

• Old running shoe insoles
• Paracord or shock cord
• Hole punch or awl
• Scissors
• Lighter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove insoles: Extract insoles from old running shoes. Clean if needed.
2. Trim if desired: Some people trim down the insole for a smaller profile. I usually leave them full-sized.
3. Mark hole locations: Mark three positions along each side – one at the toes, one at the arch, one near the heel.
4. Punch holes: Create holes through the insole material at marked positions.
5. Thread lacing: Cut about 40 inches of paracord. Thread through holes in a crisscross lacing pattern.
6. Secure heel: Create a heel loop by threading cord around the back of the insole.
7. Tie off: Knot the cord where it exits the insole and melt ends.
8. Test and adjust: Put on and adjust tension until comfortable.

My Experience with Insole Sandals

I discovered this method in a Reddit thread on r/Ultralight.

A user claimed they were “lighter than anything I’ve ever used” and “pretty darn comfortable.”

After trying it myself, I have to agree.

The contoured shape feels more like a real shoe than flat foam sandals.

The rubberized bottom provides decent traction on most surfaces.

Pros

• Uses recycled materials (often free)
• Pre-contoured foot shape
• Better traction than foam
• Some arch support included
• Lightweight (2-4 oz typical)
• Quick to make with practice

Cons

• Limited to available insole sizes
• Durability depends on insole condition
• Paracord can be uncomfortable on bare feet
• Less customization than foam method
• Insoles may compress with use

Method 4: Rubber Sole Sandals (Premium DIY)

This is the most advanced and durable method.

Rubber sole sandals approach commercial quality at a fraction of the price.

I recommend this for backpackers who want camp shoes that will last multiple seasons.

Materials Needed

• Sole replacement rubber (Vibram sheet or shoe repair material)
• Webbing (flat nylon strap)
• Ladder locks (buckles)
• Hole punch or awl
• Heavy-duty scissors or utility knife
• Lighter
• Rivets or grommets (optional for durability)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Create foot template: Trace your foot on cardboard. Add 1/2 inch perimeter. Cut out template.
2. Transfer to rubber: Trace template onto sole rubber using marker.
3. Cut sole: Use heavy-duty scissors or utility knife to cut out rubber sole. This takes some effort – rubber is tough.
4. Mark strap positions: Mark holes for straps at toes, arch, and heel areas.
5. Punch holes: Use awl or heavy-duty hole punch to create holes.
6. Install grommets (optional): For added durability, install metal grommets in strap holes.
7. Cut webbing: Cut three pieces of webbing – toe strap (12 inches), arch straps (20 inches each), heel strap (15 inches).
8. Thread webbing: Thread webbing through appropriate holes. Lace according to desired pattern.
9. Attach ladder locks: Secure ladder locks to ends of adjustable straps.
10. Test and adjust: Put on sandals and adjust for fit. Trim excess webbing.
11. Finish edges: Use lighter to melt webbing ends and prevent fraying.

My Experience with Rubber Sole Sandals

This is the most time-consuming method but produces the best results.

I spent about an hour making my first pair.

That was three years ago and I’m still using them.

The rubber sole provides real traction on wet rocks, grass, and smooth surfaces.

The ladder locks make them infinitely adjustable.

I can wear them with thick socks or barefoot – just a quick adjustment of the buckles.

Pros

• Best durability (can last years)
• Superior traction on all surfaces
• Fully adjustable with ladder locks
• Professional appearance and feel
• Can replace worn components
• Handles rough terrain better

Cons

• Most expensive DIY method ($20-30)
• Requires most tools and skills
• Longest construction time (45-60 minutes)
• Heaviest DIY option (6-8 oz)
• Rubber cutting requires strength

All Methods Compared

Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose:

Method	Weight	Cost	Time	Durability	Difficulty
Duct Tape Booties	Under 2 oz	$0-5	15 minutes	3-7 days	Beginner
Foam Sandals	3-5 oz	$0-10	30-45 minutes	1-2 seasons	Beginner
Insole Sandals	2-4 oz	$0-8	20-30 minutes	1 season	Beginner
Rubber Sole	6-8 oz	$20-30	45-60 minutes	3+ seasons	Advanced

Tips for Better Camp Shoes 2026

After making dozens of pairs, I’ve learned some tricks that improve the final product.

Improving Traction

The most common complaint about DIY sandals is slippery soles.

One Reddit user reported slipping and falling on wet grass with flat-bottom sandals.

Here’s how to avoid that problem:

• Scuff the sole: Use rough concrete or a rock to scuff up the bottom surface. This creates texture for grip.
• Add silicone dots: Apply small dots of silicone sealant to the sole. Let cure completely before use.
• Cut tread patterns: Use a utility knife to cut shallow grooves in the sole, similar to tire tread.
• Use textured materials: Some foam and insoles have textured bottoms – orient this side downward.

Sizing and Fit

Getting the right fit makes or breaks comfort.

I trace my foot while standing to account for foot spread under weight.

I add at least 1/2 inch around the perimeter.

This extra room prevents straps from cutting into my feet.

Strap Placement

Where you place your strap holes matters.

The toe strap should sit just behind your big toe joint.

Arch straps should align with the highest point of your arch.

Heel straps should go around your Achilles tendon, not on it.

Left and Right Specificity

Don’t make identical sandals for both feet.

Your feet are slightly different shapes.

I trace each foot separately and make left and right sandals accordingly.

The difference in comfort is noticeable.

Where to Find Free Materials In 2026?

One of the best things about DIY camp shoes is using materials you already have.

I’ve made multiple pairs without spending a dime.

Foam Sources

• Old sleeping pads: That worn-out Z-lite or RidgeRest makes perfect sandal material.
• Floor mats: EVA foam exercise mats work well. Check thrift stores.
• Packaging foam: Some electronics come packaged with dense foam sheets.

Coroplast Sources

• Yard signs: Political signs, real estate signs, and event signs are often free for the taking after election season or events end.
• Construction sites: Sometimes have scrap corrugated plastic – ask first.

Insole Sources

• Old running shoes: The insoles often outlast the shoe itself.
• Thrift stores: Buy cheap shoes just for the insoles.

Cordage Sources

• Old tent guylines: Many backpacks and tents come with extra cordage.
• Paracord bracelet: Unweave a bracelet for about 8 feet of cord.

Troubleshooting Common Problems 2026

Sometimes things don’t go perfectly the first time.

Here are solutions to issues I’ve encountered:

Straps Too Loose

If your sandals feel sloppy, shorten the cord.

For shock cord, remove the knot, pull tighter, and re-tie.

For paracord, you may need to re-lace entirely with a shorter piece.

Straps Too Tight

Tight straps cause discomfort and can cut circulation.

Replace with a longer piece of cordage.

Or adjust your lacing pattern to use more length between holes.

Holes Tearing Out

This happens with thin foam or high stress areas.

Reinforce holes with duct tape rings.

Or use grommets if you have access to a grommet tool.

Sole Too Thin

If you can feel every rock, add a second layer.

I’ve glued two thin foam sheets together with contact cement.

The result is much more comfortable for rough terrain.

Comparison to Commercial Options

How do DIY options compare to what you can buy?

Option	Weight	Cost	Notes
Crocs	12-16 oz	$20-40	Heavy but durable and convenient
Xero Shoes	6-10 oz	$40-80	Good middle ground, customizable
Bedrock Sandals	8.5 oz	$80-150	Premium quality, long wait times
Mayfly Ultralight	3-5 oz	$100+	Extreme light weight, poor traction reported
DIY (various)	1.5-8 oz	$0-30	Customizable, satisfaction of making

The DIY option wins on weight and cost across the board.

What you trade is time and some consistency.

But there’s satisfaction in using gear you made yourself.

“The best gear is the gear you make yourself. It fits perfectly, costs nothing, and has a story.”

– Common sentiment in the MYOG (Make Your Own Gear) community

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

DIY camp shoes represent everything I love about ultralight backpacking.

They save weight.

They save money.

They’re customizable to your exact needs.

And there’s genuine satisfaction in using gear you made with your own hands.

I encourage every backpacker to try making at least one pair.

Start simple with the duct tape method or foam sandals.

Once you see how well they work, you might never go back to commercial camp shoes again.

Your feet – and your pack – will thank you.