Outdoor Shoes for the Nature-Lover

Enjoying nature is always a better experience with the right gear — especially on your feet. Whether you're an avid camper, a dedicated hiker, a passionate trail runner, or someone who simply loves walking in the great outdoors, your choice of shoes can make or break the excursion. The best outdoor shoes should provide not only comfort and durability but also crucial step support and, ideally, some added protection against the elements. 

Let’s take a look at what goes into great outdoor footwear and unveil our top Allbirds choices we think would make the perfect outdoor companions for your feet. 

What to Look for in Outdoor Footwear 

Sure, you could wear pretty much any kind of shoe to the campsite or hiking trail, but that doesn’t mean you should. Here are the main aspects you should never compromise on with your next pair of camping or hiking shoes:

Light On Your Feet

Overly dense and bulky shoes can make you feel weighed down with each step. And while it may be tempting to look for super-rugged, tank-like shoes made for surviving the Australian Outback, they aren’t really necessary unless you plan on tackling some extremely rugged terrain. Lightweight shoes keep you nimble, reduce overall fatigue, and make exploring the nature around you a lot more enjoyable.

Comfortable

Whether you're hiking up a trail or relaxing at your campsite, a comfy pair of shoes will always make your experience better. The right cushioning and support will keep your feet happy so you can fully enjoy the outdoors without discomfort.

Tough Materials 

It’s a simple ask, really: Outdoor shoes need to hold up to the outdoors. Rocky trails, muddy paths, random tree roots — none of these should be take down your footwear. Go for shoes with rugged construction and durable materials that can handle natural terrain and frequent use. 

Water-Resistant

Whether you welcome it or not, rainy weather and moisture may be a part of your excursions. Your shoes need to handle the moisture, so look for water-resistant finishes and features that can help keep your feet dry in wet conditions. 

Easy Cleaning 

When done right, outdoor adventures can get messy, so easy-to-clean shoes are a must. Materials that can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth or easily air-dried are preferable. Machine washable shoes and removable insoles are even more convenient.  

Our Favorite Outdoor Shoes 

Trail Runner SWT

Let’s start with our top choice: The venerable Trail Runner SWTs. Designed for trail running (or hiking), these are the ideal outdoor shoes that are ready for both camping and hiking. With ultra-grippy treads and multi-directional 4mm lugs, the Trail Runners SWTs keep you upright and steady-footed across any terrain. A seamless upper made from breathable eucalyptus tree fiber and wool keeps your feet cool and comfy, while the cushy Sweetfoam® sugarcane midsole supports your every step wherever the path takes you. 

Don’t worry if you see some gray clouds coming your way — the shoe’s water-resistant finish helps keep your feet dry from splashes, puddles, and rain. Plus, thanks to the snug, sock-like collar, you won’t have to deal with dirt and small rocks sneaking inside. And when the time inevitably comes to wash your Trail Runner SWTs, it’s as easy as throwing them in the washing machine (check out the detailed washing instructions here). 

Here’s more good news for outdoor lovers: The Trail Runners SWTs are made with numerous sustainable materials, from bio-based TPU seam tape and heel counters to laces made from recycled plastic bottles and castor bean oil-based insole foam. The result? A carbon footprint of just 9.37 kg CO2e. Learn more about carbon footprint labeling and our commitment to reduce our impact.

That about checks all the boxes, right? Find your perfect color: Men’s | Women’s

Tree Dasher 2

The next best style outdoor enthusiasts seeking both comfort and sustainability is the Tree Dasher 2. Crafted from renewable materials like eucalyptus tree fibers, this shoe offers breathability and a lightweight feel, perfect for long hikes or casual strolls through nature. Its responsive midsole provides excellent support and cushioning, reducing fatigue on rough terrain, while the durable outsole ensures reliable traction on various surfaces. Plus, the shoe's sleek design and eco-friendly credentials make it not only a practical option but also an ethical one for those who value the environment as much as their outdoor adventures.

Wool Runner Mizzles

Although not as rugged as the Trail Runner SWTs, our Wool Runner Mizzles can definitely step up as your go-to outdoor and camping shoes — especially if the terrain is a bit tamer. 

On the bottom, you’ll find all-condition traction that gives your feet a solid grip on slippery surfaces, letting you tread with confidence. On the inside (and outside), ultra-soft ZQ Merino wool keeps your feet cozy while wicking away moisture. 

Speaking of moisture, the Wool Runner Mizzles are treated with Puddle Guard® technology that repels water and ensures your feet remain dry in wet conditions. Need a little more coverage around the ankles? Even better — our Wool Runner-Up Mizzles have you covered (literally). 

And just like the Trail Runner SWTs, our Wool Runner Mizzles are crafted from a variety of sustainable materials, giving them a carbon footprint of just 10.95 kg CO2e. So, you can stride easy (or kick back around the fire) knowing your shoes are helping preserve the nature we all love to enjoy. 

From all-black to bolder hues, we’ve got your look: Men’s | Women’s 

One quick note: Keep in mind the Wool Runner Mizzles are more suited for cooler camping conditions. For warmer weather camping, consider the lighter, more airy Tree Runners or the slip-on Tree Dasher Relays.)