MD Podiatrist Discusses Benefits of Camp Shoes

Sports medicine podiatrist Dan Michaels, DPM says camp shoes aren’t a luxury item. There are key benefits to wearing them. “I think many people will find the benefit of [camp shoes], especially after a long day of hiking,” says Dr. Michaels. “When you’re in the same shoes all day, it feels good to be able to use less energy to move and have the comfort of a recovery or camp shoe underfoot.”

Dr. Michaels’s podiatry practice is located a stone’s throw from the Maryland segment of the Appalachian Trail. He often advises his hiker patients to prioritize foot health when hiking, including examining feet post-hike, moisturizing frequently, and wearing camp shoes. Dr. Michaels says camp shoes help the feet and toes splay naturally outside of a boot or restrictive shoe. Instead of being crammed into a hiking boot all day, camp shoes give your feet room to expand and air out, all while letting muscles relax. They also help limit bacteria buildup by giving your feet a break from being stuck inside a damp, sweaty boot.