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Did Hoka Accidentally Make the Perfect Camping Shoe?

The latest entry into Hoka’s recovery lineup, this fashion-forward mule has hidden utility.

Close-up of a gray textured slip-on shoe with a beige sole and adjustable strap buckle.Hoka
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By Jack Seemer

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Say it loud and say it proud: Crocs clogs are excellent camp shoes.

They slip on and off with ease, so you can avoid tracking dirt into your tent. The waterproof sole keeps feet nice and dry. And the integrated heel strap can clip onto the back of a back with a carabiner.

But Hoka’s newest slip-on begs the question. Could Crocs possibly be improved?

Beige and dark gray slip-on sandal with textured upper and adjustable strap on a white background.
The Ora Primo EXT is the latest entry into Hoka’s recovery-focused roster.
Hoka

Named the Ora Primo EXT, this fashion-forward mule splits the difference between the the classic Crocs clog and Birkenstock Boston, combining utility and style into one easy-to-wear silhouette.

Like Crocs, it’s not necessarily made for camping. But a few features make it suited for the task.

Black slip-on mule shoe with textured upper and thick sculpted sole.
Rubber sidewalls and a durable toecap bring extra protection outdoors.
Hoka
Pair of black slip-on shoes with textured fabric uppers and adjustable side buckles, viewed from above.
The insoles have self-massaging dimples to aid with recovery.
Hoka

For starters, the shoe borrows the dual-layer EVA midsole found across Hoka’s lineup, then combines it with a pared-back outsole to keep the weight down.

Meanwhile, expanded sidewalls and a rubber toecap bring extra protection, shielding the suede upper from dirt and splashes.

Close-up of the black sneaker's midsole and heel area featuring textured and perforated design elements.
The mule design makes it easy to slip on or off.
Hoka
Beige and black rubber shoe soles with textured grip pattern and "HOKA" branding in the center.
Weight is kept in check with a minimal outsole.
Hoka

Finally, a G-hook closure can be loosened on the fly to accommodate thick hiking socks. However, it can also be used as a makeshift strap to hook onto a pack — no carabiner required.

Close-up of black Hoka shoe strap with plastic buckle and textured midsole.
The G-hook closure can be used to dial in the fit, but it’s almost more useful as an integrated strap to affix to the back of a pack.
Hoka

Availability and pricing

Available in black or gray, the Hoka Ora Primo EXT is already available overseas with a price tag of 145 Swiss francs (about $180). It’s expected to arrive in the US by early November.

About the Author:

Jack Seemer is the executive editor at Gear Patrol, with over a decade of experience in product journalism. He currently reports on a wide range of topics, including footwear, watches, EDC, cookware and more.

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