What to Pack for Summer Camp: Shoes That Keep Up With Kids
Have you ever tried keeping up with kids at summer camp? Summer camps are all about springing from one activity to the other; hide and seek, scavenger hunts, and everything in between. Summer shoes no longer have to be just trendy-looking, but also keep up with all the action you’re about to throw at them.
In reality, not all kids' shoes are ready to handle the craziness of camp life. Let’ reflect on past camp shoe experiences. We’ve all tried shoes that have caused blisters, are non-breathable, trap sweat like a hot sauna, and then fall apart as quickly as a campfire marshmallow that you forgot about! If your child is walking miles a day while traversing trails and obstacle courses, they deserve better.
For these reasons, it is super important to ensure the camp shoes you pack are versatile, durable, and comfortable enough to do everything without the dreaded complaints: "Mom, my feet hurt!".
In this blog, we will examine things to remember while purchasing summer camp shoes so your child can play happily, healthily, participate, and stay blister-free.
What Makes the Best Summer Shoes for Active Kids?
Summer camp is a full-on adventure! From splash pads to trails, kids need summer footwear that checks off all the boxes. The key here is breathability. When those hot temps roll in, sweaty feet can ultimately lead to blisters and discomfort. Lightweight and airy materials will help keep things cooler while kids tear up the outdoor adventures.
Then there’s the convenience factor. Camp life, as you’d know, moves fast; no time between activities, and no one wants to deal with hard-to-tie laces. Shoes that are easy to wear and take off, and secure are essential for all the transitions between swimming, ball games, or a hike.
Do not forget the structure. The best footwear for summer camps has a wider toe box for a more natural movement. It is important for kids to have all the fun and movement while having footwear that can keep up with it.
Comfort Is Key: Why Kids Need Comfortable Shoes They’ll Keep On
Your child wakes up and is ready to rock a great day. An hour into the day, your child is limping, pulling on their shoes, or worse… going barefoot. Why? Because stiff, tight, or ill-fitting shoes can ruin everything!
That is why finding comfortable shoes for camp is a must! We love barefoot-style designs that enable kids to move naturally!
Barefoot-style shoes allow for a healthy, growing foot while still enabling a child's body to move full range, all the climbing, running, and jumping without any restrictions.
You need soft, flexible soles and uppers that move with the foot and not against it. When shoes fit the shape of your foot. They are light, have plenty of room, and feel like you’re barefoot; your child won’t be begging to take them off. They will be too busy exploring, playing, and seizing every moment of their day at camp.
Durable, Easy-to-Clean, and Camp-Ready: The Splay Difference
When it comes to summer camp activities and having fun, shoes take a massive beating. Muddy hikes, surprise rainstorms, tree climbing—you name it, your shoes go through it. That’s why we at Splay Shoes build ours with integrity in all those situations. Durability is certainly not optional when your kid is racing down trails or stomping through puddles.
Our minimalist design keeps it simple and strong. With fewer parts, there are fewer things to break, rip, and wear down. We eliminated stiff overlays or bulky extras and put together a flexible design that supports all the messy, wild fun the camp wooshes your way. That's why we like to say our shoes are made for tree climbing, mess making, and trail running.
And after all that? They're easy to clean. You can forget about all those muddy footprints or the mystery goo from the lake. Because let’s be serious, the only thing kids should be bringing home from camp is their good stories, not ruined shoes.
A Parent’s Packing Checklist: How Many Shoes Do Kids Need?
Packing for summer camp? Well, it might feel like a jigsaw puzzle, and you’re trying to fit the right pieces together. But don't worry, we've got you covered. You do not need to overthink this. A few simple choices cover every camping scenario.
Start with a reliable pair to wear for all-day play. Great choices include the EXPLORE 2.0, EXPLORE WILD 2.0, and the brand-new DASH, designed for movement, messes, and everything in between. These everyday shoes are multi-purpose and ideal for hiking, biking, sports, and camp games.
Next, add shoes specifically to use for some water time or showering. Quick-dry water shoes or simple flip flops will work and are more hygienic for communal bathrooms. Want to add a third option? Light flat sandals or slip-on sandals are good for resting or quick trips to the mess hall.
Always add extra pairs of socks (you'll thank us later) and a small storage bag to keep the muddy or damp shoes separate from the rest of their gear. Camping can get messy, but if you stay prepared, you won’t have to get prepared!
Shop the Best Summer Shoes from Splay
Are you ready to cross "camp shoes" off your list? Splay Shoes has got you covered! They are the ideal summer shoes for active children, as they're super light, durable, breathable, and designed for all-day adventure. They'll get the kids through climbing trees and running to the lake, and they're the shoes the children would want to wear.
