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Arguably the Best Crocs Campground Mules of the Year Are Not What You’d Expect

The clog brand swaps its typical all-foam construction for one that could go toe-to-toe with The North Face’s iconic Thermoball slip-ons.

Close-up of a black slip-on shoe with a textured rubber sole and a pull tab labeled "OCS.Crocs
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By Sean Tirman

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When you think about Crocs, chances are you imagine clunky, perforated foam clogs. And that makes sense: it’s the iconic style that the brand built itself on.

Even some of the brand’s more esoteric releases, like its all-terrain campground kicks and super-fuzzy clogs, are still based on the brand’s original shoe.

However, its latest release is a bit of a departure. The Crocs Classic Translucent Ripstop Moc noses its way into the puffer slipper realm, a space typically dominated by another icon: The North Face Thermoball Mule.

But can it compare? You be the judge.

Black slip-on quilted slipper with padded upper and thick rubber sole on a green background.
I promise, this is not The North Face’s classic Thermoball mule.
Crocs

Slip ‘n’ slide

In case I haven’t made it abundantly clear, these don’t look like typical Crocs, which are built from the brand’s proprietary Croslite foam. That said, they do still have some key elements in common.

These are mules, which means they are close-toed, but have an open back. However, it’s not entirely that simple. Whereas traditional Crocs have a convertible back strap, these instead have a collapsible heel.

Pair of black and gray quilted Crocs slip-on shoes with fleece lining on a green background.
Those subtle camo insulated uppers are made with ripstop nylon, so they’re tougher than they look.
Crocs

You can simply step on top of the heel to utilize them like slides. However, if you want a more secure fit, you can pull the flexible material up around your heel and you’ve got a more traditional slip-on sneaker.

Lovers of Jibbitz charms, I have some bad news: these Crocs do not support them in any way. The classic perforations have been eschewed to make way for the other stylistic and functional elements.

Back view of a black and gray Crocs shoe with a textured sole and fabric lining.
These mules feature a collapsible heel, allowing them to be worn as a slip-on or a more secure full shoe.
Crocs

Puff ‘n’ stuff

It’s not just the style of this mule that makes it special; it’s also the construction.

Interestingly, this shoe still retains some of the brand’s signature Croslite foam. It’s found at the bottom, the outsole. That means this isn’t a house slipper; it can be worn outside around the city, at the campground or wherever else you plan to relax. It’s also easy to clean and offers a much better grip than indoor shoes.

Black rubber sole of a Crocs shoe with tread pattern and size markings on a green background.
Despite their unusual upper, these slip-ons still maintain a classic Croslite outsole that’s tough and lightweight.
Crocs

However (and unsurprisingly) it’s the upper that really shines. The insulated puffer top is crafted from ripstop nylon. That means, like the outsole, it is lightweight. It’s also surprisingly tough, resistant to rips, tears, abrasions and even moisture.

Along with the puffer insulation, the footbed is also lined with a fuzzy, warm material, allowing this shoe to be worn with or without socks, even in cooler weather. It also features a pull tab at the top for easy on and off, whether the heel is up or down.

Pair of black slip-on Crocs with quilted fabric uppers and gray rubber soles against a green background.
These mules are available in three colors: Black (above,) White and Citrine.
Crocs

Pricing and availability

The Crocs Classic Translucent Ripstop Mocs are now available in three colors on the brand’s site for $70 per pair.

About the Author: Sean Tirman is an associate editor at Gear Patrol who specializes in EDC, cannabis and outdoor gear.

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