Croc shower sandals and other ways to cut weight

[peregrina2000]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

 

[NoQ]

I couldn't recommend crocs for showers highly enough. Also great for walking around after arrival. They weigh almost nothing. I was really sad when I got to Villafranca only to realise that I had left mine in Ponferrada that morning.

 

[Mark Lee]

I like the ones made by Kuhl (www.kuhl.com). They make some great men's lightweight pants and have a women's line of hiking pants too.

 

[OzAnnie]

Hi
I'm working on doing same, so I will be watching responses .
Re the crocs though . Test drive a pair. There are different types, they are very light. I didn't like the look of the 'original' ones that look like clogs and found sandaly looking ones as they were to be my spare shoes for before and after Camino also.
On arrival august at Zubiri, we wanted to wade and cool our feet in the stream. Put the crocs on but found it hard to stand up and walk with them wet! My feet when hot didn't take to them at all. I bought some excellent light sandals (type? They are at home ? ). Bought these after Zubiri and left my crocs in next Alburgue .
They may suit your foot shape though? Try them

Re dropping other weight. I usually take deodorant but won't this time . It's only 24 hrs between showers and I rarely make a sweat. You still sweat with deodorant.

Annie

 

[koilife]

My "classic" Crocs worked just fine and were very light. The fit, for me, is good enough that I could even use them in a pinch to compensate for a shoe failure and walk to the next town with a store.

I'm still looking for a decent pair of hiking sandals in the same weight range. That would be about the only thing that would budge me from the Crocs.

 

[Espero]

I picked up a pair of Crocs knockoffs on e-bay. They look and feel just like Crocs but are 2 oz. lighter for the pair. Cheaper too. Men's size 10; 10 oz. for the pair.

 

[brawblether]

THREE KILOs? How is that even possible? If I took out my "luxury" items (which weigh 500-1000gs and I totally accept that it's my choice to carry them) my bag would still weigh about 7kgs, I just don't know how people survive on less. Apart from the pack itself, I have bought everything in the lightest possible weight on offer. My pack weighs heavier because it's canvas but the upside of that is that I don't need to carry a pack cover. Whilst I acknowledge that it's possible to do without some items in my pack, I wouldn't want to. For example, I'd always want two tops, two bottoms. I'm not sitting in bed while my only set of clothes dry.

 

[HeidiL]

When I got my one and only blister last year, I took my shoes off and changed to crocs. They were perfectly adequate for the last five kilometres of the day. They are also invaluable for laundry duty (the floor is always wet, and it gets muddy if I wear my shoes and I don't want to get my socks wet) and a little light walking around town after the day's walk.

 

[Susannafromsweden]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

Hi Laurie,
I don't have any crocs, as I think they are too big and heavy.
I got a pair of flip flops for the shower, and for walking around the albergue etc.
They are only 120 gram (size 5): Betula energy.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00E6EBN0C/?tag=casaivar-21

As for hiking pants, if you want real pants with pockets, they are usually quite heavy. I got a few pairs here but the lightest are still 284 gram, so they will stay at home.
I will take runners tights instead, the lightest I got is only 93. That's a big difference.

 

[Jamilla's mum]

My walking shoes will be the Dr Martens (yes, they do make shoes) that I've been wearing all over the world for the past few years. They fit me wonderfully, the soles have hardly any wear at all inspite of having walked for miles, and the toe box is great. In fact, they fulfill all the requirements for walking the Camino - but......

a couple of weeks ago I saw photographs of arroyos on the route. I hadn't known about those. Can't walk barefoot through streams, and can't risk getting my leather Docs soaked. Flip-flops no use at all, as they don't hold the foot.

Into Lidl's, which I visit occasionally. Hurrah! they were selling imitation Crocs, for only £4.00. I bought some - and also some 'cycling socks, which are padded where it matters, thin where they can breathe. I wore them last Friday - a day when I'd be setting up for a jumble sale and on my feet all day. Perfect! And the acid test - my feet and knees were just great the next day, too. (I've had to abandon some shoes because although they felt ok on the day, the next day my knees suffered.)

So I'm abandoning the flip-flops for this trip. I'll go with my 'crocs' instead. From being a sneerer I've become a total fan.

 

[Alexster66]

My walking shoes will be the Dr Martens (yes, they do make shoes) that I've been wearing all over the world for the past few years. They fit me wonderfully, the soles have hardly any wear at all inspite of having walked for miles, and the toe box is great. In fact, they fulfill all the requirements for walking the Camino - but......

a couple of weeks ago I saw photographs of arroyos on the route. I hadn't known about those. Can't walk barefoot through streams, and can't risk getting my leather Docs soaked. Flip-flops no use at all, as they don't hold the foot.

Into Lidl's, which I visit occasionally. Hurrah! they were selling imitation Crocs, for only £4.00. I bought some - and also some 'cycling socks, which are padded where it matters, thin where they can breathe. I wore them last Friday - a day when I'd be setting up for a jumble sale and on my feet all day. Perfect! And the acid test - my feet and knees were just great the next day, too. (I've had to abandon some shoes because although they felt ok on the day, the next day my knees suffered.)

So I'm abandoning the flip-flops for this trip. I'll go with my 'crocs' instead. From being a sneerer I've become a total fan.

Hi Jamilla's mum,
I wear mid Docs all year round, to work, weddings, summer and winter and they are wonderful for my feet. One pair lasts me for years. I've had 3 pairs since 1995.
I thought I would use them for my Camino as well but over time have decided to purchase mid Keens which I now wear all day every day.
Would love to hear how your journey goes with your Dr Marten shoes, they should be great. Enjoy Via de la Plata, I leave 2 weeks today for the Frances.
Buen camino
Alex

 

[Jamilla's mum]

Hi Alex. Good to hear from another Doc Marten's fan. I actually bought my first pair when I was 60, and they're the ones I'll be wearing, though I have another pair now.
The only problem I've had with them to date was when I visited the Eden Project in Cornwall, after several days hiking and wild camping on Dartmoor. It rained a lot in 2012, the grass was wet and in the high humidity the wet leather swelled. When I took off my shoes I had a purple imprint of bruise on each foot, in the shape of the shoe. It wasn't pleasant, and curtailed my walking for the next week.
Buen Camino and vaya con Dios ...

 

[Tia Valeria]

Hola Laurie. We have the Crocs Unisex classic clog which fit well and weigh 220 gms for the pair. Great for showers, and also for walking around sightseeing etc. Having zip offs means it is possible to remove wet or muddy bottom section without changing trousers so they remain our choice for very little weight difference.
We have also said that if facing water or mud over our boot tops we would unzip our trouser bottoms, remove our outer socks and walk through in the liner socks and Crocs.
My weight saving idea for this year was to remove the lining from my new waterproof trousers, and the ankle 'tags' Saved a few grams.

 

[Houlet]

I don't like wearing flip flops, its the toe thong, so have bought generic croc type sandals.

If I don't like them I can throw them away, and if I do like them maybe even replace them with a better quality.

As long trousers I'm packing one pair breathable waterproof, and one pair runners tights. I'm also taking two pairs synthetic shorts with inners which I hope will double up as underwear and sleepwear.

But probably the biggest saving, since I will only be gone for a month there will be no need for soap.

 

[lynnejohn]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

Hi Laurie -
I am not a crocs fan, so I won't comment on them. I have worn these North Face Horizon Tempest Pants for the last 3 caminos. They are super light - lighter than anything I've found, and minimum volume when in your pack. The material breathes well, very durable, and pocket-handy. They also roll up to capris, if that is something you're interested in. Even more importantly, they have the traditional snap at the waist, but also a drawstring - very handy when you start losing weight! And last, they are around $50 dollars in a market where similar products are $100-200. (Sierra Trading Post) http://www.sierratradingpost.com/th...tempest-pants-roll-up-legs-for-women~p~4947d/

EDIT: Addition - they do fit large, so if you take a size 10, order a size 8 and they will still be loose-ish.

 

[koilife]

The only problem I've had with them to date was when I visited the Eden Project in Cornwall, after several days hiking and wild camping on Dartmoor. It rained a lot in 2012, the grass was wet and in the high humidity the wet leather swelled. When I took off my shoes I had a purple imprint of bruise on each foot, in the shape of the shoe. It wasn't pleasant, and curtailed my walking for the next week.

For what it's worth --- That kind of rain is a real possibility on your camino (April/May averages from 7 to 14 days of rain on different sections of the VDLP based on the weather charts I looked at (http://www.elcaminosantiago.com/Weather-Camino-Via-de-la-Plata-Ourense-Climate.htm). You could be forced to wear your Crocs for days on end or risk leather swelling on your Doc Martens.

 

[xin loi]

I don't wear Crocs as I believe in what the Bible says--"It is better to look good than to be good". But they are becoming very popular in the Amazon basin . Lot of guides wear them for walking in wet areas. I usually wear cheap "Teva" type sandals from wal-mart. Used to wonder how the Ho Chi Minh trail porters carried their big loads wearing flip flops or Ho Chi Minh sandals. Still have found nothing better for walking in wet conditions that Army surplus Canvas boots--but ONLY those with the big diagonal cuts across the soles that let mud squish out. Vibram soles are worthless in wet mud and are too hard to grip rocks. Assuming it will be fairly dry in May & June so I'm taking "Teva" type sandals.

 

[peregrina2000]

Hi Laurie -
I am not a crocs fan, so I won't comment on them. I have worn these North Face Horizon Tempest Pants for the last 3 caminos. They are super light - lighter than anything I've found, and minimum volume when in your pack. The material breathes well, very durable, and pocket-handy. They also roll up to capris, if that is something you're interested in. Even more importantly, they have the traditional snap at the waist, but also a drawstring - very handy when you start losing weight! And last, they are around $50 dollars in a market where similar products are $100-200. (Sierra Trading Post) http://www.sierratradingpost.com/th...tempest-pants-roll-up-legs-for-women~p~4947d/

EDIT: Addition - they do fit large, so if you take a size 10, order a size 8 and they will still be loose-ish.

Hi Laurie,
I don't have any crocs, as I think they are too big and heavy.
I got a pair of flip flops for the shower, and for walking around the albergue etc.
They are only 120 gram (size 5): Betula energy.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00E6EBN0C/?tag=casaivar-21
As for hiking pants, if you want real pants with pockets, they are usually quite heavy. I got a few pairs here but the lightest are still 284 gram, so they will stay at home.
I will take runners tights instead, the lightest I got is only 93. That's a big difference.

Hi, camino wardrobe specialists
Lynne, I've never worn crocs either, but I saw that they made some regular looking flip flops, which I thought might be just as light as their big shoes (or lighter) and lighter than the chacos. Unfortunately, Susanna I can't find Betula flips in the US.

Runners tights, hmmm. I've never worn them. I take it you're referring to those black leggings? Any suggestions for lightweight brands? I am not one to be concerned about looks, but not sure about this idea.

Lynne, do you know what those NorthFace pants weigh? Thanks everyone, Laurie

 

[lynnejohn]

Hi, camino wardrobe specialists
Lynne, I've never worn crocs either, but I saw that they made some regular looking flip flops, which I thought might be just as light as their big shoes (or lighter) and lighter than the chacos. Unfortunately, Susanna I can't find Betula flips in the US.

Runners tights, hmmm. I've never worn them. I take it you're referring to those black leggings? Any suggestions for lightweight brands? I am not one to be concerned about looks, but not sure about this idea.

Lynne, do you know what those NorthFace pants weigh? Thanks everyone, Laurie

They're 10 oz. And I just found them in backcountry.com for $38.97 on clearance!

 

[peregrina2000]

Ten oz. is, 283.4 grams, so Susanna knows her clothing weight! Amazing. Are runners tights just for the young-uns, though? Laurie

 

[Susannafromsweden]

Runners tights, hmmm. I've never worn them. I take it you're referring to those black leggings? Any suggestions for lightweight brands? I am not one to be concerned about looks, but not sure about this idea.

Yes, those black leggings.
Last year I had a pair from Nike, but there was a little pocket on the back, and they took ages to dry.
This year I'm testing 3/4 tights from Hummel. The model is called Cloe. I've just bought them so don't know how they will perform, but they are very light and comfy.
I will wear these when walking, but will take a skirt (154 gram) to wear in the evenings.

 

[lynnejohn]

Ten oz. is, 283.4 grams, so Susanna knows her clothing weight! Amazing. Are runners tights just for the young-uns, though? Laurie

This is just my opinion but I wouldn't wear tights on the camino, for no other reason than I just wouldn't be comfortable. I do wear tights to the gym and around the house. That's it. They sure are popular with the young-uns though, you're right. On the camino, I like a little air on my legs with lightweight shorts or pants, especially when it's >40 degrees on the extremadura. Oh, and I love pockets so I can stuff things in them. These pants have inside zipped security pockets. Otherwise, each of us dresses to her own comfort level, whether it be dress, skirt, tights, shorts or pants.

 

[RoamingTheWorld]

I ended up walking about half the Camino IN my Crocs because my hiking boots were killing my feet/blisters. They are invaluable and light.

 

[Rambler]

one option for pants that I have heard about are getting surgeon's "scrubs". I hear they are light, can be gotten in 100% synthetic and easily washed. I take REI zip offs on the Camino and love them. I also plan to take Crocs or Patagonia Advocate sandals. At 119 grams, they are as light as crocs, but probably not as good in the shower.
Rambler

 

[Tammi Murray]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

First of all, 3 kg! Wow! Even a light back weighs almost 3 kg! I am aiming for 7 kg myself. First of all because it is almost 10% of the weight that I hope to be when I begin the Camino (yes, I plan to lose some as I've picked up some excess these past few years and I don't want to haul it with me!) Second, because some of the airlines only allow 7 kg in carry-on luggage and if I'm planning to haul all my stuff for 500 miles, I think that I should be able to start out by fitting my stuff in carry-on rather than checked baggage.

I haven't yet decided upon the best shoe combination. For myself, I usually hike in hiking boots. However, that said, I am usually hiking in Washington state on trails, not on the diversified terrain of the Camino. Thus, I think that a good middle-ground for me will be hiking shoes. However, having once hiked the Pacific Coast Trail and learned the hard way how painful it is to have blisters (which occur very quickly with wet feet and me having trekked through some waist-high water since we made some of our bluff passings when the tide was too high to walk the beach), I want a back-up pair of shoes. Thus, I am planning to give up some of my pack weight for a pair of hiking sandals.

With regard to 'shower shoes' I have never quite figured this one out and maybe it's just me. I don't wear shoes in the shower no matter where I am. (For the record, I also don't understand the concept of 'shower caps'.) I do like to walk, both in side and out, in bare feet and I do like to walk in flip flops. This is what I do to 'give my feet a break' (so yes, this would be, gasp, a third pair of shoes!) I am not a fan of Crocs or any kind of clogs. I think that they are ugly. I don't like how they feel on my feet. And they are bulky. But, just like the person who doesn't like flip-flops, this is a personal preference.

Regarding hiking pants, if you always hike in pants and never in shorts, then I would agree that the zip-off type doesn't make sense for you. I personally prefer to walk in shorts and if I get cold, then I zip on the legs, so for me, the zip-off variety is a must. I have several brands, all purchased used, and I have not yet determined which are my favorites.

 

[Larazet]

You can't wear socks with flip flops (Japanese do though somehow) so flapping crocs transported on the outside of the backpack weighing next to nothing are the order of the day for me. (They were reduced on Amazon because they are brown!!)

 

[hecate105]

Crocs - or similar are fab! So light and can dangle outside your pack. Great for crossing streams, paddling in the sea etc, and invaluable if blisters or any other damage to feet occurs. Worn with socks they are cosy in the evening and can take a lot of sight-seeing too - perfect when your feet just don't want to wear boots for a while! For cyclists they are great for when you take off your cycling shoes - especially if you do cleats! They don't mind being wet or hot, they are comfy and generally come in luminous colours which save you getting run over!!!

 

[pudgypilgrim]

You can't wear socks with flip flops (Japanese do though somehow)

They wear tabi. Like everyone else, I'm seriously impressed with the 3kg. I love the way many of the Croc styles look (the clogs, not so much), but you can either wear them or you can't. For me they are serious torture, alas.

 

[peregrina2000]

With regard to 'shower shoes' I have never quite figured this one out and maybe it's just me. I don't wear shoes in the shower no matter where I am. (For the record, I also don't understand the concept of 'shower caps'.) I do like to walk, both in side and out, in bare feet and I do like to walk in flip flops. This is what I do to 'give my feet a break' (so yes, this would be, gasp, a third pair of shoes!) I am not a fan of Crocs or any kind of clogs. I think that they are ugly. I don't like how they feel on my feet. And they are bulky. But, just like the person who doesn't like flip-flops, this is a personal preference.

I certainly don't presume to tell you what to do with your feet, but there are many showers in albergues where no human foot should go uncovered. Really. The biggest problem is when the shower won't drain and then all the gunk comes up and over your feet, but then what you have to do is figure out how to wash your feet and your sandals or they will be loaded with all sorts of nasty stuff. I am not a germaphobic, but I really would not want to set foot in many of these places if my skin were going to touch the floor. People with open blisters should take extra care.

I use whatever shower shoes I have for walking around after the walking is over. I haven't had a problem with the chacos not drying, my issue now is exclusively weight.

 

[Sheesh]

Hi Laurie, I have been seriously considering Skechers "On the GO - Journey". It is seriously light, at 3 oz/90 grams) per sandal for women's size 7.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A64F9KQ/?tag=casaivar02-20

 

[StuartM]

On treks in the past I've just worn that day's socks in the shower. If all you want is some foot protection from the nasties then it is a lightweight idea AND you get clean socks into the bargain

 

[peregrina2000]

Hi Laurie, I have been seriously considering Skechers "On the GO - Journey". It is seriously light, at 3 oz/90 grams) per sandal for women's size 7.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A64F9KQ/?tag=casaivar02-20

That looks like it might work. I like that you can wear socks when you walk around in them afterwards, and the weight is as low as I've seen for slipons. Thanks, Sheesh!

 

[WycombeMan]

Im taking my sketchers trainers they weight about 7oz superlight and comfy for when Im not wearing my boots, ive decided against a few things in my bag whilst doing atrial packing yesterday and am down to 8.4k

 

[OzAnnie]

Im taking my sketchers trainers they weight about 7oz superlight and comfy for when Im not wearing my boots, ive decided against a few things in my bag whilst doing atrial packing yesterday and am down to 8.4k

Hola WycombdMan
As Laurie's thread is part headed 'and other ways of cutting weight' I'm wondering what you have decided to drop from your pack this year to reduce your weight (unless it is too personal?).

Re the 3kg weight if Laurie's pal, I'd love to know what makes it up. I can't imagine a sleeping bag or water could be in it ?
Annie

 

[lynnejohn]

You can't wear socks with flip flops (Japanese do though somehow) so flapping crocs transported on the outside of the backpack weighing next to nothing are the order of the day for me. (They were reduced on Amazon because they are brown!!)

You can if you wear Injinji socks!

 

[WycombeMan]

Hola WycombdMan
As Laurie's thread is part headed 'and other ways of cutting weight' I'm wondering what you have decided to drop from your pack this year to reduce your weight (unless it is too personal?).

Re the 3kg weight if Laurie's pal, I'd love to know what makes it up. I can't imagine a sleeping bag or water could be in it ?
Annie

No nothing is ever too personal for me, so its fairly boring im afraid I have left out a bobble hat, swimming trunks, flask, conditioner, kindle, beard trimmer, mobile phone and a 4th pair of socks n underwear.

so its just the basics, i've cut out luxuries as I really don't want to carry them, I will just have to bore people with my conversation instead of being transfixed by electrical entertainment.

 

[lynnejohn]

Those sketchers look good, and are probably best if weight is a #1 concern.
I have walked many kilometres in these:
http://www.montrail.com/womens-lithia-loop-GL2126.html#
and I'm bringing them this time too. They're a little heavier at 137 gm. I like the technology. You put them in the oven and then stand/wear them for a bit and they conform to your foot. They have great arch support and don't move around like conventional flip-flops. They are very comfortable even for long-ish distances. I've worn them for years, and they just don't wear out.

 

[newfydog]

First of all, 3 kg! Wow! Even a light back weighs almost 3 kg!

Hola WycombdMan

Re the 3kg weight if Laurie's pal, I'd love to know what makes it up. I can't imagine a sleeping bag or water could be in it ?
Annie

I posted this elsewhere, but it would be worth adding to this thread.
The lightest gear I know of is made in a garage in Florida, by a guy who walks the walk. A bit extreme, but it shows what can be done if you want to cut weight.

http://www.zpacks.com/about.shtml

We've got jackets and backpacks from them----not cheap, but light beyond belief and so far they are testing out well

Here's their reports from 11,000 km of hiking with full camping gear, with packs under 3 kg:



Te Araroa - The New Zealand Trail - 1,897 miles / 3,054 km (View Map)When: November 14th 2012 through March 13th 2013. 120 days
Base gear weight: 6 lbs (2.75 kg) (Gear list) New! Most up to date gear list!
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hike - 2,651 miles / 154 days (View Map)
When: June 17th through November 17th 2009
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: Average about 6 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hike - 2,663 miles / 147 days (View Map)
When: April 29th through September 22nd 2007
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: About 5 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

 

[t2andreo]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

REI have a line of their own brand convertible pants called "Sahara Convertible Pants." I believe they make them both for men and women. They are made of 100 nylon but have a good feel to them. They have plenty of pockets, including some that close with zippers for security, and also come with a light-weight webbed belt. The fit was also generous in the hips and seat - I inherited mom's hips.

The bottoms can be removed while you are standing or seated, without having to remove the trousers. The left and right leg zippers are color-coded so you can make sure to return the correct leg bottom to the "right" leg.

I wore two pair on my first Camino last year and and using them again this year. Amazingly, they still fit - almost!

They wash easily and dry VERY fast. They also tend to repel water in all but a strong rain. After a day of mud-walking, I just unzipped the bottom and washed them separately. I left them to line dry while I went for a meal. After no more than about two hours they were dry enough to zip back on.

Also, I found on one occasion that the legs are interchangeable between a pair of one color with another - for example tan and olive. So, if you are "color-challenged," be careful and mark the various bits.

I am not so affected, but one day I needed bottoms as it was cold and the washed bottom had not yet dried. So, rather than get changed, I just swapped out the leg bottoms. One pair of pants has three components: top part, left and right lower leg panels.

I hope this helps.

 

[lynnejohn]

I posted this elsewhere, but it would be worth adding to this thread.
The lightest gear I know of is made in a garage in Florida, by a guy who walks the walk. A bit extreme, but it shows what can be done if you want to cut weight.

http://www.zpacks.com/about.shtml

We've got jackets and backpacks from them----not cheap, but light beyond belief and so far they are testing out well

Here's their reports from 11,000 km of hiking with full camping gear, with packs under 3 kg:



Te Araroa - The New Zealand Trail - 1,897 miles / 3,054 km (View Map)When: November 14th 2012 through March 13th 2013. 120 days
Base gear weight: 6 lbs (2.75 kg) (Gear list) New! Most up to date gear list!
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hike - 2,651 miles / 154 days (View Map)
When: June 17th through November 17th 2009
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: Average about 6 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hike - 2,663 miles / 147 days (View Map)
When: April 29th through September 22nd 2007
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: About 5 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

This is pretty impressive, alright! Much of it beyond me, especially the "homemade" clothing. In my world, we do not know of such things

 

[Espero]

I posted this elsewhere, but it would be worth adding to this thread.
The lightest gear I know of is made in a garage in Florida, by a guy who walks the walk. A bit extreme, but it shows what can be done if you want to cut weight.

http://www.zpacks.com/about.shtml

We've got jackets and backpacks from them----not cheap, but light beyond belief and so far they are testing out well

Here's their reports from 11,000 km of hiking with full camping gear, with packs under 3 kg:



Te Araroa - The New Zealand Trail - 1,897 miles / 3,054 km (View Map)When: November 14th 2012 through March 13th 2013. 120 days
Base gear weight: 6 lbs (2.75 kg) (Gear list) New! Most up to date gear list!
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hike - 2,651 miles / 154 days (View Map)
When: June 17th through November 17th 2009
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: Average about 6 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hike - 2,663 miles / 147 days (View Map)
When: April 29th through September 22nd 2007
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: About 5 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Plus one on ZPacks. I bought their Zero backpack and added "bells and whistles" to get a semi-custom pack. I even had them sew on my forum patch and a camino patch. Really nice people to work with and very accommodating. Yes, the packs are expensive but they're cuben fiber. Cuben fiber is expensive! My 48 l pack weighs in at 12.5 oz.

 

[peregrina2000]

Hi Laurie,
I don't have any crocs, as I think they are too big and heavy.
I got a pair of flip flops for the shower, and for walking around the albergue etc.
They are only 120 gram (size 5): Betula energy.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00E6EBN0C/?tag=casaivar-21

As for hiking pants, if you want real pants with pockets, they are usually quite heavy. I got a few pairs here but the lightest are still 284 gram, so they will stay at home.
I will take runners tights instead, the lightest I got is only 93. That's a big difference.

Those sketchers look good, and are probably best if weight is a #1 concern.
I have walked many kilometres in these:
http://www.montrail.com/womens-lithia-loop-GL2126.html#
and I'm bringing them this time too. They're a little heavier at 137 gm. I like the technology. You put them in the oven and then stand/wear them for a bit and they conform to your foot. They have great arch support and don't move around like conventional flip-flops. They are very comfortable even for long-ish distances. I've worn them for years, and they just don't wear out.

Susanna, are your Betula energies 120 grams EACH or for the pair? Turns out these nice Montrail flips that Lynnejohn recommends are 137 grams each.

 

[annakappa]

Hi Laurie,
Although I don't much like the look of Crocs, that's what I use for my spare shoes on the Camino. For one thing you can use them with or without socks, which is a very important advantage if the weather is cold. We usually walk a good way into the month of October, so by then, especially up in the mountains, you need socks in the afternoon and evening. Flip flops would just not work. Personally, I have never come across a situation where I felt I needed something on to protect my feet from nasty things in the shower. Maybe I was just all the time very lucky.
Pants: I use 2 pairs with zip off legs. Not that I walk in them as shorts, as I would never do that, because I live in the semi tropics and have bare legs all year round and I certainly don't want a telltale banner at the bottom of my leg where the sun reaced the sock/boot line. No way. However, the zip off part can always be washed separately if covered in mud, without having to wash the whole article, especially if the weather is wet. Anne

 

[Susannafromsweden]

Susanna, are your Betula energies 120 grams EACH or for the pair? Turns out these nice Montrail flips that Lynnejohn recommends are 137 grams each.

Hi Laurie,
They are 120 for the pair, so 60 gram each. They were the lightest I could find. I wear them around the house here, too.
They sit much better on the foot than ordinary flip flops.
I looked at lots of flip flops and saw there was a kind which looked like yoga mats, they were also rather light but one shouldn't use them in water, as they soaked up water, they said. Sounded funny. So better avoid these.
Are you planning to take only your walking shoes and flip flops?

 

[lynnejohn]

Susanna, are your Betula energies 120 grams EACH or for the pair? Turns out these nice Montrail flips that Lynnejohn recommends are 137 grams each.

I can't find this information anywhere, Laurie - where did you find it?

 

[peregrina2000]

Hi Laurie,
Are you planning to take only your walking shoes and flip flops?

I can't find this information anywhere, Laurie - where did you find it?

Hi, Susanna, I only take hiking shoes and a pair of shower shoes that double as in town walking shoes. I've been very happy with my chacos but worry now that they are too heavy.

Lynnejohn, I saw the 137 gram note on the product info and called the customer service line to ask whether it was per shoe or per pair. They told me it was per shoe.

I think I'm going to get a kitchen scale and start weighing to get a better idea of what my stuff weighs and then see where I can cut. I know that 10 oz for a pair of pants seems like a lot compared to leggings, but I have no idea what my zippered ex officios weigh so I think I should start there.

Thanks amigas. Laurie

 

[lynnejohn]

Thanks Laurie - doesn't that seem like an odd way of reporting the weight of a pair of shoes!?
You are on an adventure with your kitchen scale - best of luck with that, and I'll be anxious to learn the final outcome!

 

[xin loi]

My Novia has been bugging me to buy Crocs for a couple years, but we never found any in size 12 (US). Do they even make them in large men's sizes? Not that I would buy them--as the Bible says--"you really can judge a book by it's cover".

 

[newfydog]

we never found any in size 12 (US). Do they even make them in large men's sizes? ".

They come in huge sizes........

 

[Anniesantiago]

I admit, I haven't read this entire thread.
But you can pick up Croc knockoffs in any China Store along the Camino for under €6 - that's what I usually do.

 

[koilife]

I admit, I haven't read this entire thread.
But you can pick up Croc knockoffs in any China Store along the Camino for under €6 - that's what I usually do.

I'm not familiar with "China Store", is that a chain?

 

[Anniesantiago]

They are like "Dollar Stores" in the USA and are in most large cities on the Camino.

 

[koilife]

They are like "Dollar Stores" in the USA and are in most large cities on the Camino.

Thank you.

 

[t2andreo]

I admit, I haven't read this entire thread.
But you can pick up Croc knockoffs in any China Store along the Camino for under €6 - that's what I usually do.

In most large towns and cities along the Camino Frances, you can find these "China Stores." They are also called "Asian Bazaar," "Oriental Bazaar," or "China Bazaar." I think I saw my first one at Logrono. I KNOW they exist in Pamplona, Burgos, Leon, Ponferrada, Sarria, and Santiago as I have either shopped in them or located them using Google. Try searching for the various listings I mention above, plus the city name and "Spain;" e.g. "China Bazaar, Pamplona, Spain."

They sell all manner of assorted and sometimes odd items, including stuff you can use along the Camino. As one might guess, nearly all of these products are sourced in China. Things I have purchased as needed at various times have included:

• lightweight hangers to dry clothes faster,
• clothes pins,
• lightweight metal "S" hooks with rubber tips to hang things in showers and about a bunk,
• 2-round prong plug converters for my US specification electronic adapters,
• 3-way Shucko plug "tap" that allows you to plug three things into one mains outlet,
• microfiber gloves for walking in cold and wet weather,
• microfiber, convertible hat that functions like a Buff, but far warmer. They cost €1,20 each and I gave about a dozen away to other pilgrims who did not have warm hats last year...it's what I do...

They sell inexpensive versions all all kinds of things you never knew you could use. I even bought an inexpensive duffel bag to all my extra "stuff" home from Santiago after I went overboard last year buying souvenirs around Santiago for family.

I hope this helps.

 

[travellover]

I saw these shoes today on www.nomorerack.com . Looks like a good alternative to crocs, and it is just $12.
If you google dawgs shoes, you will find ton of other variety, more like flip flops, more like sneakers, more like crocs, more like sandals, but for full price - 29-39$

 

[AZgirl]

I'm a big fan of The teva zirra lite. It's about 11 oz per pair , dries quick and not too expensive. http://www.sierratradingpost.com/te...ilterString=s~teva-zirra-lite/&colorFamily=01​

 

[Kanga]

Hi Laurie, I have been seriously considering Skechers "On the GO - Journey". It is seriously light, at 3 oz/90 grams) per sandal for women's size 7.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A64F9KQ/?tag=casaivar02-20

I love the feel of Skechers and they are super-light. Also great on cobblestones. But after a few days they stink! And it stays, even after a full wash in the washing machine, sun, air, bicarbonate soda - you name it. The only thing that overpowers the stench, according to my friend, is patchouli oil - yuk!
I wish Skechers would do something to overcome this.

 

[Cejanus]

Hi Laurie, My crocs weigh 250g and are a dark ash colour so they go with anything. I used them everyday after completing that part of my journey. When it was cold I just slipped on my lightweight inner socks. They were comfortable, lightweight and were the last item to go into the top of my pack each morning. I was lucky and picked them up for $5.00 AU. My family told me they were not a good look but hey who cares, and you know what, I just can't remember what anyone had on their feet in the evenings. (Perhaps I am not observant!)
AND they will be coming with me on the Via de la Plata.

On the issue of pack weight I had mine down to 6kg and I had three items that weighed around 750g that I did not need and I walked through snow, rain and mud, mud, mud.

PS In the thick horrible mud, if you come across it, simply slip the boots off, shove on the crocs and feel that mud. Slip on the boots again, chuck the crocs into a water proof sack and head off again. Certainly saves cleaning up the boots when the crocs just wash out so easily in running water and dry in a matter of minutes. (Wash your feet with the contents of a water bottle - distances are not great on the Camino Frances and refill the bottle.)

 

[Diogo92]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

I think that they are ugly. But who the hell is considering that on the Camiño?! They are comfortable, and are a great for you to use either in bath time, or to take a walk after you reach the Albergue.

Has a second pair of shoes, to walk some parts of the way, I thing that I wouldn’t tell anyone to use them. Why don’t you go out for a new pair of sandals, like walking sandals, which are not so bad, has that?

P.S: no matter what you do, I think that spending more that 5€ on something that it’s only made of rubber, it’s like throwing out money to trash. Do as t2andreo told, go to a Chinese store, and buy a pair. The pair that I have, cost me 3,99€, on a Chinese store here in Lisbon!

 

[xin loi]

Do these "Chinese stores" sell clothes? Perhaps I really don't have to carry anything! Had my backpack stolen in Ecuador and other than buying long pants for rest of 3 weeks, I realized it was cheaper to just buy shirts, sox, and underwear at local "Dollar Stores" than to pay for laundry.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Yes, they carry just about anything a person would need. Clothes, shoes, tweezers, laundry items, makeup, underwear, bags, toys, food.. you name it and it's probably there.

And you're right! It might be cheaper to buy clothes along the way than to do electronic laundry. However, I do my wash by hand.

 

[Rambler]

Xin Loi:
A different spin on your approach, we do take "travel clothes" that we wear on the flight and our first travel day, then donate them at the first albuerge. When we arrive in Santiago, we buy a souvenir shirt and new jeans to wear home. That way they don't drag us off the plane for smelling so bad!
Unfortunately the new pants don't fit for as long as I would like since I start gaining the weight back I lost along the Way...

Rambler

 

[Anniesantiago]

Xin Loi:
A different spin on your approach, we do take "travel clothes" that we wear on the flight and our first travel day, then donate them at the first albuerge. When we arrive in Santiago, we buy a souvenir shirt and new jeans to wear home. That way they don't drag us off the plane for smelling so bad!
Unfortunately the new pants don't fit for as long as I would like since I start gaining the weight back I lost along the Way...

Rambler

Yeah, I LOVE shopping in Santiago!
The prices are great!
I always buy a new outfit and shoes when I arrive.

 

[Stefania13/14]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

Hi Peregrina 2000,
I apologize if others have answered with this info already but here goes : )
I don't know the weight of those crocs (and I have called the company for weights and gotten an "I don't know") BUT I do know that if you go to a place like Big Lot they have fake crocs that are very light weight compared to the real thing (just holding them up you can feel the difference). Mine weigh 208 gms. for a pair of size large (I wear size 8 1/2 women's shoe).
As far as clothes weights go there are some web sites that list weights in the technical specs for their clothing and even if I don't buy from that site I can use the information provided. Try www.derailed.com and the company websites for the specific clothing you are looking at.
I love my Kuhl pants. I have the Kuhl Bandita convertible pants which weigh a lot (411 gms. for size 8) but they also come with no zip off and I have Kuhl Kaya cinch pants (weight 311 gms. size 8). These are very well made and are abrasion resistant and stretch, dry quickly enough, etc. I highly recommend Kuhl pants and shorts (my husband wears the shorts all summer and has had them for atleast a couple years with no wear being apparent). There are a pair of Kuhl Vala pants that may fit your needs too so check those out as well because I suspect they weigh less.
Good luck with the hunt!
Buen Camino
Stefania

 

[Rambler]

Have any of you used the Teva Original Universal sandals? They are 188 grams each, according to the Teva site. I owned a pair in college and loved them, but struggle to believe they are almost the same weight as Crocs. You can definitely hike in them though. Just another alternative...
Rambler

 

[xin loi]

Rambler--I usually buy travel clothes at local Goodwill store for about $1.50 each and then leave them behind when returning home. On recent trip to South America, before return trip I left all of my clothes in Hotel room and filled backpack with 20 Alpaca Sweaters that were only $8 each in local market.

I'm tempted to take nothing at all for Camino if I can get cheap clothes in "Chinese Stores".

 

[Rambler]

I Love It!!!
If we see a half dress pilgrim in mismatched clothes, we will know it is you!
Rambler

 

[Sheesh]

I love the feel of Skechers and they are super-light. Also great on cobblestones. But after a few days they stink! And it stays, even after a full wash in the washing machine, sun, air, bicarbonate soda - you name it. The only thing that overpowers the stench, according to my friend, is patchouli oil - yuk!
I wish Skechers would do something to overcome this.

Skechers makes a quite a wide variety of footwear. The ones that I posted ("Journey") appear to have no fabric, so perhaps would not have the smell problem that Kanga mentions. I would probably wear them with socks anyway (except in the shower of course). And at 90 grams per sandal for a women's size 7 makes it a serious contender for me.

 

[hnguyen]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

Hello Peregina2000:
I looked at your crocs link and realize that the "shower" crocs are similar in design to flip-flops (thongs), very different from the classic crocs. I used a pair of classics crocs on the CF and highly recommend them. They were light (no more than 8 oz. - back straps removed) and comfortable for showers and short walks after a day of hiking. I prefer crocs to sandals since crocs are lighter (I have ultra-light Keens and they are heavier than crocs). You can also wear socks with crocs on cool evenings which you cannot do with flip-flops.

As someone else had mentioned, zip-offs are nice even if you don't wear them as shorts since the bottom halves of the legs can be zipped off and washed, without having to wash the whole pair of pants. The bottoms are more likely to get muddy and they dry off much quicker than the whole pants - especially on cloudy & rainy days. Zip-offs also have multiple and large pockets - handy for food, map, passport, money etc. I took 2 pairs of North Face zip-offs last time - but will save some weight by taking only 1 pair plus a pair of hiking shorts next time. I have zip-offs from REI, North Face and Columbia - the Columbia pair is the lightest since its material is thinner. However, I prefer the North Face because of the fit.

Getting the pack weight down to 3 kgs is a real challenge. If your friend succeeds in keep her total weight to this limit, she should share her secret with the rest of the community. I have polio and an artificial knee so keeping weight down is a necessity for me. My 3o L Gregory backpack (Medium) is already 2lb 4oz empty. With the bare necessities, I can only get the total weight (including the pack but without food or water) to 5.5 kgs (or about 12 lbs). At this point it'll be difficult to trim another pound off!

Buen camino!

 

[Diogo92]

one option for pants that I have heard about are getting surgeon's "scrubs". I hear they are light, can be gotten in 100% synthetic and easily washed. I take REI zip offs on the Camino and love them. I also plan to take Crocs or Patagonia Advocate sandals. At 119 grams, they are as light as crocs, but probably not as good in the shower.
Rambler

I think I had one pair of those when I was little, and I haven't seen them for years here in Portugal!

 

[patgreen]

I've been going into shops with my kitchen scales, I get some strange looks.
This is what I got. 164 grams for the pair. Quite a solid sole. I might try some walking in them on the camino.

 

[tictoc]

THREE KILOs? How is that even possible? If I took out my "luxury" items (which weigh 500-1000gs and I totally accept that it's my choice to carry them) my bag would still weigh about 7kgs, I just don't know how people survive on less. Apart from the pack itself, I have bought everything in the lightest possible weight on offer. My pack weighs heavier because it's canvas but the upside of that is that I don't need to carry a pack cover. Whilst I acknowledge that it's possible to do without some items in my pack, I wouldn't want to. For example, I'd always want two tops, two bottoms. I'm not sitting in bed while my only set of clothes dry.

Mines only 2.7kg

 

[Diogo92]

I posted this elsewhere, but it would be worth adding to this thread.
The lightest gear I know of is made in a garage in Florida, by a guy who walks the walk. A bit extreme, but it shows what can be done if you want to cut weight.

http://www.zpacks.com/about.shtml

We've got jackets and backpacks from them----not cheap, but light beyond belief and so far they are testing out well

Here's their reports from 11,000 km of hiking with full camping gear, with packs under 3 kg:



Te Araroa - The New Zealand Trail - 1,897 miles / 3,054 km (View Map)When: November 14th 2012 through March 13th 2013. 120 days
Base gear weight: 6 lbs (2.75 kg) (Gear list) New! Most up to date gear list!
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hike - 2,651 miles / 154 days (View Map)
When: June 17th through November 17th 2009
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: Average about 6 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hike - 2,663 miles / 147 days (View Map)
When: April 29th through September 22nd 2007
Trail Names: "Samurai Joe" and "Hellfire"
Base gear weight: About 5 lbs (Gear list)
Photos: Samurai Joe's Picasa Web Album

YAY; finally somebody that knows this guy's too

 

[Diogo92]

THREE KILOs? How is that even possible? If I took out my "luxury" items (which weigh 500-1000gs and I totally accept that it's my choice to carry them) my bag would still weigh about 7kgs, I just don't know how people survive on less. Apart from the pack itself, I have bought everything in the lightest possible weight on offer. My pack weighs heavier because it's canvas but the upside of that is that I don't need to carry a pack cover. Whilst I acknowledge that it's possible to do without some items in my pack, I wouldn't want to. For example, I'd always want two tops, two bottoms. I'm not sitting in bed while my only set of clothes dry.

It depends from the season, the Camiño that the person it's making, what they really need to live, etc, etc.

My pack, for Winter/Spring Camiño weights 7.5kg including 1l of water, and 500g of food (bars, fruit, dried fruits, chocolat, etc). For a Summer Camiño, I can downsize it to 5 or 5.5kg.

 

[xin loi]

Young woman up the street walked the Pacific Trail last year--she is so paranoid about weight that she cuts her finger nails and toe nails EVERY morning before hiking in order to lower the weight she carries. She is SERIOUS! She said she carries less than 2.5 kilos including food and tent.

Believe people get too worried about weight. The one person who I have met who walked the longest was also carrying the biggest pack of anyone I have met actually walking . She was a young woman from Denmark who flew in to Cancun, Mexico and then walked across Mexico to the Pacific. She then took a left and I met her in Guatemala after she had been walking for 8 months. Last time I saw her she was walking down the dirt street of Montirrico, Guatemala humping her ruck all the way to Chile.

 

[tictoc]

Young woman up the street walked the Pacific Trail last year--she is so paranoid about weight that she cuts her finger nails and toe nails EVERY morning before hiking in order to lower the weight she carries. She is SERIOUS! She said she carries less than 2.5 kilos including food and tent.

Believe people get too worried about weight. The one person who I have met who walked the longest was also carrying the biggest pack of anyone I have met actually walking . She was a young woman from Denmark who flew in to Cancun, Mexico and then walked across Mexico to the Pacific. She then took a left and I met her in Guatemala after she had been walking for 8 months. Last time I saw her she was walking down the dirt street of Montirrico, Guatemala humping her ruck all the way to Chile.

That person is my kind of hiker, cut grams and the kilo's look after themselves. I'll be starting a day ahead of you.

 

[tictoc]

I've been going into shops with my kitchen scales, I get some strange looks.
This is what I got. 164 grams for the pair. Quite a solid sole. I might try some walking in them on the camino.
View attachment 9142

I'm thinking about crocs but I'm not sure I want them swinging about on my pac, I'm kind of a neat person

 

[gerardcarey]

I think I had one pair of those when I was little, and I haven't seen them for years here in Portugal!

I've just bought a pair like that except they have laces. $20 - Sort of light wet suit material.
Light as a feather and I figure ideal for my evening walkabouts.
But I think I'll miss the foot airing ability of my scuffs (like those on the scale above) tho I felt a bit dorky wearing socks with them when it was chilly.
Still undecided.
Regds
Gerard

 

[moraneigel]

Ok, my pal and soon to be Camino walking partner just informed me that she is hoping to get her bag weight to around 3 kg. I have never worried too much about the weight of my pack, I think it's usually around 8-9 kg, which made Susanna gasp.

I know it's a good idea to lighten the load. So I am looking at my gear list and am going to try to shave off some weight. One thing is my chacos, which must weigh a pound each. Would a croc shower sandal be a good idea? Does anyone know what they weigh?

http://www.crocs.com/shower-sandals-and-slippers/shower-shoes,default,sc.html

I need to get some new hiking pants, too, and wonder what the lightest are. I usually bring a pair of zip-offs, but that's silly because I always walk in long pants, so I don't need the zippers. It's hard to find out what clothes weigh when you look online, so if you have some favorite light pants, let me know.

Thanks.

I took my crocs and never regretted the decision. They are light and I attached them to the outside of my pack with a carabiner. They were accessible when I finished walking for the day, so I could change my shoes while waiting in queue to get into an albergue. If it rained, no problem; my pack covered went right over them.

 

[Doodles]

My wife took some Crocs last year but I find them bulky to pack so I stuck with plain old flip flops. Both work fine. We live in Thailand where flip flops are what we wear 99% of the time so it was a no brainer for me. I think the pack weight issue is over blown. It's not a strenuous backpacking hike where you are already carrying food, water and tents, so don't obsess about something like a pair of Crocs.

 

[travellover]

Finally I found what I wanted! I am walking in my keens hiking shoes but wanted something for walking in the rain/shower/evening. I did not want take another pair of walking shoes plus flip flops. Finally, after looking through million stores and getting and shipping back 5 various pairs, I found the right ones! Pacific Trail Klamath water sandals! 153 grams each shoe! Can walk in them for a period of time, can take shower, walking in the rain, the are fast drying and feather light! Love them!
http://media.kohls.com.edgesuite.net/is/image/kohls/1762621?wid=400&hei=400&op_sharpen=1

 

[Judy Rubin]

Hi, camino wardrobe specialists
Lynne, I've never worn crocs either, but I saw that they made some regular looking flip flops, which I thought might be just as light as their big shoes (or lighter) and lighter than the chacos. Unfortunately, Susanna I can't find Betula flips in the US.

Runners tights, hmmm. I've never worn them. I take it you're referring to those black leggings? Any suggestions for lightweight brands? I am not one to be concerned about looks, but not sure about this idea.

Lynne, do you know what those NorthFace pants weigh? Thanks everyone, Laurie

Hi!. Crocs makes some new styles that are super light and cute. As far as leggings, I wore footless black tights instead of pants, just put my shorts over them (this is the way to dress on the A.T.) Warm and light. In case of cold weather, I could always throw on my rainpants although I didn't find it necessary. Warm and light. See photo!

 

[Oxford Alice]

Tevas are my second pair of shoes. Great for walking in mud or rain, also good in the shower. They aren't as light as crocs, but with three points to adjust the fit, they are serious walking shoes and feel great. If my feet feel good, all is well.

 

[Magwood]

I have been following this thread from the start, and am now ready to chip in. Last year on my first camino (Frances) I followed advice on this forum and decided to buy crocs. However my inner 'fashion police' would not allow me to buy the original and very ugly design, and after a search I came across the huarache style, which I deemed acceptable.


They proved to be extremely comfortable, and I anticipated wearing them every evening with my lovely feather-light silk skirt specially purchased for the camino. However the weather did not behave as expected and there was no way that I was going to be wearing open sandals during the very cold evenings that I experienced in April/May 2013. I ended up wearing said 'pretty' crocs with multi-coloured liner socks, which rendered the fashion police apoplectic with shame (needless to say the silk skirt didn't really see the light of day).

So I decided that on future caminos, it would be ugly crocs for me - fashion police be damned. But when the time came I just couldn't bring myself to do it. The 'pretty' ones have been the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned and were hardly off my feet the whole summer, and I have to add that my feet have never been in better condition.

So, after much dithering, I finally ordered another pair of the huarache crocs, this time in black which, if the weather dictates, I can wear with a discrete pair of black socks and not bring total shame upon my inner fashion patrol!

They arrived yesterday, they are just as comfortable as my first pair, I can walk in them for hours (although probably not on rough terrain) and they don't look too awful with socks. They are not the most lightweight option available at 164 grams per shoe, but I know I will get my money's worth from them.

 

[Silverton]

Thanks to someone on this forum who mentioned Skechers, I are now a convert too. They're half the weight (approx 115gm each) of my previous Ecco sandals, and they can be worn in the shower too. I wore them gratefully on the last 5km into Santiago, and 8km on pavements in Dublin before my camino. The fashion police (and my daughter!) might disapprove, Magwood, but Skechers are my current delight!

 

[Kanga]

Pacific Trail Klamath water sandals! 153 grams each shoe! Can walk in them for a period of time, can take shower, walking in the rain, the are fast drying and feather light! Love them!
http://media.kohls.com.edgesuite.net/is/image/kohls/1762621?wid=400&hei=400&op_sharpen=1

They seem exactly what I've been looking for. Don't seem to be available in Oz and the shipping costs are a killer for us. Pity.

 

[Rosemaryk1]

Hi Laurie -
I am not a crocs fan, so I won't comment on them. I have worn these North Face Horizon Tempest Pants for the last 3 caminos. They are super light - lighter than anything I've found, and minimum volume when in your pack. The material breathes well, very durable, and pocket-handy. They also roll up to capris, if that is something you're interested in. Even more importantly, they have the traditional snap at the waist, but also a drawstring - very handy when you start losing weight! And last, they are around $50 dollars in a market where similar products are $100-200. (Sierra Trading Post) http://www.sierratradingpost.com/th...tempest-pants-roll-up-legs-for-women~p~4947d/

EDIT: Addition - they do fit large, so if you take a size 10, order a size 8 and they will still be loose-ish.

I also have the Tempest pants and love them. They hold up very well and as mentioned are light weight. I am not a crocs fan either, too bulky but besides that they are not comfortable on my feet. If I had to walk in them further than the bed to the bathroom I would be miserable. I am sticking with my lightweight Tevas, which are great for after hike shoes and if needed I could continue to hike in them as well. I have a pair of very, very light weight flip flops for the shower. I weighed these crazy little flip flops and they weigh next to nothing. I personally just don't want to skimp on the after hike shoes so it will be worth a little more added weight for the Tevas. Just be sure and "test drive" anything new!

Buen Camino!
Rosemary

 

[Adhemar78]

I will be doing the Camino in September. I went on a workshop in Sydney last year and the presenter, who has walked the Camino multiple times, recommended purchasing a pair of Crocs to wear in the evenings due to their light weight - he said these weight about 320 grams per pair. I also read a book by a lady from Melbourne who has walked the Camino Frances twice and she made the same recommendation.

I was able to pick up a pair from a Crocs store at an Outlet centre about 20 minutes walk from where I live. I bought the Mesa Fisherman style of Crocs, just because I don't like the look of regular Crocs and wanted something that had more of a sandal look. These weigh 450 grams. Here's a link with some information:
http://www.shoes2u.com.au/crocs_mesa_fisherman_khaki_choc.html

 

[Rambler]

Just ran across these Cushe slippers at a local store here and decided to get these for my camino. They weigh the same as crocs, are VERY comfortable and come in 17 different styles, so you can be unique. According to my food scale at home the pair in size 10 US mens weighs 302 grams. You can also attach them to your outside pack through the logo with a carabiner.
Rambler

 

[mla1]

Hi Laurie, I second the running tights recommendation -- even if you are not the youngest peregrina. They are my new hiking pants of choice. Super comfortable, never rub. I hate zip-offs -- the zipper always feels stiff. I'd rather just take a minute to change into shorts or a skirt. I'm also a fan of the Cushe shoes as mentioned by Rambler above -- but I don't know if they have ones that you could use shower in the shower. They are super light. On my last long walk, a pair of wool Cushe 'slippers' were my evening shoes. I have been using Crocs, the standard clog style, as camp and portage shoes on canoe trips for years. They are surprisingly sturdy -- even when carrying heavy canoe packs over nasty terrain.

 

[peregrina2000]

Now that I have received my scale and am starting to weigh things, I see that my beloved chacos weigh 690 g for the pair. They are not coming this year, though I've worn this pair on at least 12 caminos!

I would like to have a "slide on" style so I can wear them at night with socks, and Crocs customer service just suggested the Modi slide, which weigh 113 g for the pair according to their scale. http://www.crocs.com/crocs-MODI-2.0-slide/15605,default,pd.html?cid=485

If this is accurate, this will be the one piece of equipment in my pack that is lighter than the comparable piece of equipment in Susanna's pack, because her Betulas weigh 120 g for the pair.

Buen camino, Laurie

 

[Susannafromsweden]

Now that I have received my scale and am starting to weigh things, I see that my beloved chacos weigh 690 g for the pair. They are not coming this year, though I've worn this pair on at least 12 caminos!

I would like to have a "slide on" style so I can wear them at night with socks, and Crocs customer service just suggested the Modi slide, which weigh 113 g for the pair according to their scale. http://www.crocs.com/crocs-MODI-2.0-slide/15605,default,pd.html?cid=485

If this is accurate, this will be the one piece of equipment in my pack that is lighter than the comparable piece of equipment in Susanna's pack, because her Betulas weigh 120 g for the pair.

Buen camino, Laurie

Wow, 113 g, that's light!
What size is it?
And your electric coil is lighter than mine, too, I've heard. I wonder if you really put the cable on the scale?

 

[peregrina2000]

Wow, 113 g, that's light!
What size is it?
And your electric coil is lighter than mine, too, I've heard. I wonder if you really put the cable on the scale?

According to my trusty new scale, my electric coil weighs 89 g. But that doesn´t include the adaptor, so I will make sure to re-weigh it tonight and get back to you.

Susanna is the taskmaster for pack weight, I feel so totally stupid with my 250 g pants and my 151 g shirts.

buen camino, Laurie

 

[Susannafromsweden]

According to my trusty new scale, my electric coil weighs 89 g. But that doesn´t include the adaptor, so I will make sure to re-weigh it tonight and get back to you.

Susanna is the taskmaster for pack weight, I feel so totally stupid with my 250 g pants and my 151 g shirts.

buen camino, Laurie

I'm curious to know how your electric coil can be so light. I want one too.
The one I got is 143 gram.
I will start looking for a lighter one. I think the metal part is too big on mine.

 

[patgreen]

I would like to have a "slide on" style so I can wear them at night with socks, and Crocs customer service just suggested the Modi slide, which weigh 113 g

I'd been feeling rather smug about my sandals only weighing 164 grams, now I'm feeling rather jealous of your 113 gram sandals.
Hopefully I won't be thinking about the extra 51 grams for the whole camino

 

[peregrina2000]

I'm curious to know how your electric coil can be so light. I want one too.
The one I got is 143 gram.
I will start looking for a lighter one. I think the metal part is too big on mine.

I was afraid I had misweighed, when I looked at magellans.com (don't know if you have them in Sweden, Susanna) and they gave the weight as 5 oz. But I put it back on the scale and it's right. I also just had to buy my camino bras and got spaghetti straps rather than regular straps so that saved me 10 more g. I realize that one can get carried away with this but it's kind of fun, too.

 

[Susannafromsweden]

I was afraid I had misweighed, when I looked at magellans.com (don't know if you have them in Sweden, Susanna) and they gave the weight as 5 oz. But I put it back on the scale and it's right. I also just had to buy my camino bras and got spaghetti straps rather than regular straps so that saved me 10 more g. I realize that one can get carried away with this but it's kind of fun, too.

View attachment 9337

Thanks Laurie,
Yes your coil is much smaller than mine. No, no magellans here. But I had a look on ebay and saw there are other coils which are 90 grams, too.
I bought one just for fun which looked tiny. It cost very little and is from Hong Kong.
Will be interesting to see how much it weighs.
Btw they got very short iPhone charger cables on eBay. Looked like 10 cm or so. Will buy one and see how many grams one can save.

 

[Stefania13/14]

Now that I have received my scale and am starting to weigh things, I see that my beloved chacos weigh 690 g for the pair. They are not coming this year, though I've worn this pair on at least 12 caminos!

I would like to have a "slide on" style so I can wear them at night with socks, and Crocs customer service just suggested the Modi slide, which weigh 113 g for the pair according to their scale. http://www.crocs.com/crocs-MODI-2.0-slide/15605,default,pd.html?cid=485

If this is accurate, this will be the one piece of equipment in my pack that is lighter than the comparable piece of equipment in Susanna's pack, because her Betulas weigh 120 g for the pair.

Buen camino, Laurie

Laurie,
When the Crocs arrive would you repost the weight as actual (and the size)?
Thanks - inquiring minds want to know.....
Stefania

 

[peregrina2000]

Laurie,
When the Crocs arrive would you repost the weight as actual (and the size)?
Thanks - inquiring minds want to know.....
Stefania

Well, I am back to the drawing board. I called Crocs back, because they did seem so light, and guess what -- the Baya slide weighs 304 g the pair. And the Modi slide weighs a whopping 400 g for the pair. So unlike what the first person told me, the Modi are even heavier than the Baya. I am probably going to call again for some confirmation since I got such radically different information.

I'm still considering the montrail lithia loop, at 274 g the pair (see lynnejohn's post #37 in this thread)

I'd been feeling rather smug about my sandals only weighing 164 grams, now I'm feeling rather jealous of your 113 gram sandals.
Hopefully I won't be thinking about the extra 51 grams for the whole camino

So, patgreen, you can start feeling smug again. Looks like I haven't found a really lightweight shower sandal yet.

 

[peregrina2000]

Thanks Laurie,
Yes your coil is much smaller than mine. No, no magellans here. But I had a look on ebay and saw there are other coils which are 90 grams, too.
I bought one just for fun which looked tiny. It cost very little and is from Hong Kong.
Will be interesting to see how much it weighs.
Btw they got very short iPhone charger cables on eBay. Looked like 10 cm or so. Will buy one and see how many grams one can save.

All I want to say is that if your lightweight coil takes an hour to boil water, don't come looking to this peregrina for help.

 

[travellover]

I was playing with a thought to use hospital shoe covers for showers. They weight just a couple of grams. Good/bad idea? http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41pVfkr8nzL._SL500_.jpg

 

[peregrina2000]

I was playing with a thought to use hospital shoe covers for showers. They weight just a couple of grams. Good/bad idea? http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41pVfkr8nzL._SL500_.jpg

Hi, travellover, Whether or not this is a good idea depends on what other functions (if any) you want your shower shoes to serve. I want a pair of shoes/sandals to wear into the shower, but I also want to be able to wear them after the day's walk for walking around town, etc. I don't think those covers will serve that purpose, but they are surely a lightweight solution for people who are just looking for something to use in the shower! Are they re-usable, or will you be bringing a lot of them?

 

[Alyssa]

Have any of you used the Teva Original Universal sandals? They are 188 grams each, according to the Teva site. I owned a pair in college and loved them, but struggle to believe they are almost the same weight as Crocs. You can definitely hike in them though. Just another alternative...
Rambler

Hi Rambler. I've been hiking through all types of terrain in the same pair of Teva Hurricanes for 20 years. I LOVE them. My mom hikes everywhere in the Original Tevas, which you have pictured above. ~Alyssa

 

[Alyssa]

Finally I found what I wanted! I am walking in my keens hiking shoes but wanted something for walking in the rain/shower/evening. I did not want take another pair of walking shoes plus flip flops. Finally, after looking through million stores and getting and shipping back 5 various pairs, I found the right ones! Pacific Trail Klamath water sandals! 153 grams each shoe! Can walk in them for a period of time, can take shower, walking in the rain, the are fast drying and feather light! Love them!
http://media.kohls.com.edgesuite.net/is/image/kohls/1762621?wid=400&hei=400&op_sharpen=1

Those are really cute!

 

[travellover]

Hi, travellover, Whether or not this is a good idea depends on what other functions (if any) you want your shower shoes to serve. I want a pair of shoes/sandals to wear into the shower, but I also want to be able to wear them after the day's walk for walking around town, etc. I don't think those covers will serve that purpose, but they are surely a lightweight solution for people who are just looking for something to use in the shower! Are they re-usable, or will you be bringing a lot of them?

They actually reusable, maybe not for a month but probably for 5-6 times. I am not sure if you can get just a couple of pairs anywhere, without buying 300 of them. But if you have connections to medical professionals, I don't think it will be a problem. I understand your point about other functions and absolutely agree with you.