Reviewing the Keen Women’s Howser Slide Sandals

Quick answer

• These are super comfy, casual slides perfect for camp.
• Great for slipping on after a hike or around the campsite.
• Decent support for a slide, better than flip-flops.
• Durable construction, built to last a few seasons.
• Easy to clean, just hose ’em off.
• Good for quick trips to the outhouse or general camp lounging.

These super comfy, casual slides are perfect for camp. If you’re looking for a reliable pair of camp shoes, consider the Keen Howser Slide women’s.

What to check first (do this before you drive out)

Before you head out, especially if your camp spot involves rough terrain or you’re planning activities beyond just chilling, a few things need a once-over. This isn’t just about the gear; it’s about the whole operation.

• Land manager / legality: Who’s in charge of the land you’re visiting? Is it National Forest, BLM, a State Park, or private? Each has its own set of rules. Knowing this upfront saves you headaches. Check the official website for the specific area.

• Access/road conditions: How are you getting to your spot? Is it paved all the way, or are we talking dirt tracks? Does your rig have the clearance and 4WD needed? I learned the hard way once thinking a “maintained dirt road” meant something different than it did. Always check recent reports if possible, or be prepared for the worst.

• Fire restrictions + weather + wind: This is a big one. Fire bans are serious business. Check the current restrictions for your zone. Also, look at the forecast. High winds can make campfires dangerous, and sudden storms can ruin your trip if you’re not prepared.

• Water plan + waste plan (Leave No Trace): Where are you getting water? Is it potable, or do you need to filter/treat? And what’s your plan for trash and human waste? Pack it in, pack it out. Seriously, leave no trace. It’s not just a suggestion.

• Safety (wildlife, distance to help, comms): What kind of critters are in the area? Know how to store food properly. How far is the nearest town or ranger station? Do you have cell service? A satellite communicator is a smart move for remote spots.

Step-by-step (field workflow)

Alright, you’ve done your homework. Now it’s time to put it into action when you get to camp.

1. Arrive and assess the immediate area.

• What it looks like: You can see your intended campsite and the surrounding terrain clearly.
• Common mistake: Rushing in without looking around, setting up in a low spot that might flood or in an area with poor drainage.
• Avoid it by: Doing a quick walk-around of your chosen spot before unloading everything.

2. Unload essentials for setup.

• What it looks like: Tent, sleeping bags, pads, and your Howser Slides are easily accessible.
• Common mistake: Stashing gear randomly, making it hard to find what you need for setup.
• Avoid it by: Keeping the “setup kit” together and accessible.

When unloading essentials, make sure your Keen Howser Slide women’s are easily accessible for ultimate camp comfort.

3. Set up your shelter.

• What it looks like: Tent is pitched, staked, and fly is on if needed.
• Common mistake: Rushing tent setup, leading to misaligned poles or a poorly staked tent that can blow away.
• Avoid it by: Taking your time, following the pole setup carefully, and using all the guy lines.

4. Organize your sleeping area.

• What it looks like: Sleeping bags and pads are unrolled and ready inside the tent.
• Common mistake: Leaving sleeping gear packed away until bedtime, making it damp from overnight dew or hard to access.
• Avoid it by: Getting your sleeping gear out as soon as the tent is up.

5. Transition to camp comfort mode.

• What it looks like: You’ve kicked off your hiking boots and slipped into your Keen Howser Slides.
• Common mistake: Leaving muddy boots right by the tent door, tracking dirt inside.
• Avoid it by: Having a designated spot for footwear outside the tent, and putting on your slides.

Transition to camp comfort mode by kicking off your hiking boots and slipping into your Keen Howser Slide women’s.

6. Establish your kitchen/cooking zone.

• What it looks like: Stove, fuel, and food are laid out in a safe, level area away from your tent.
• Common mistake: Cooking too close to flammable materials or your sleeping area.
• Avoid it by: Always checking wind direction and keeping your cooking area clear.

7. Secure food and scented items.

• What it looks like: All food, trash, and toiletries are properly stored in a bear box, bear bag, or in your vehicle.
• Common mistake: Leaving food out overnight, attracting unwanted wildlife.
• Avoid it by: Making this a non-negotiable habit every single time you step away from camp or go to sleep.

8. Set up your camp seating/lounging area.

• What it looks like: Camp chairs are out, and you’re relaxing with your Howser Slides on, enjoying the scene.
• Common mistake: Not having a comfortable place to just chill after a day’s activities.
• Avoid it by: Setting up your chairs early. It’s part of the relaxation.

Relax in your camp seating with your Keen Howser Slide women’s on, enjoying the scene.

9. Gather firewood (if permitted and available).

• What it looks like: You have a reasonable amount of dry, dead wood for your campfire.
• Common mistake: Cutting live trees or gathering wood from protected areas.
• Avoid it by: Only collecting dead and downed wood, and always checking local regulations on firewood collection.

10. Perform a final sweep of the campsite.

• What it looks like: Everything is organized, secure, and ready for you to enjoy your evening.
• Common mistake: Leaving things scattered, making it feel chaotic and less enjoyable.
• Avoid it by: Taking a moment to tidy up before you fully settle in.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Ignoring fire restrictions	Fines, potential for wildfires, destroying natural areas, jail time.	Always check official sources before you go and while you’re there. Have a backup plan.
Improper food storage	Attracts wildlife (bears, raccoons), food theft, potential dangerous encounters.	Use bear canisters, bear bags, or lock food in your vehicle. Never leave food unattended.
Not checking road conditions	Getting stuck, vehicle damage, needing rescue, impassable campsite.	Research road status, have appropriate vehicle, or have a backup plan for accessing your site.
Leaving campfires unattended	Accidental spread of fire, wildfires, environmental damage.	Never leave a fire burning without direct supervision. Douse completely before leaving.
Not packing out all trash	Littering the campsite, harming wildlife, damaging the environment.	Pack it in, pack it out. Use trash bags and dispose of them properly at designated receptacles.
Setting up camp in a hazardous area	Flooding, falling trees/branches, rockfall, lightning strikes.	Scout your site carefully. Avoid dry creek beds, under dead trees, or exposed ridges.
Relying solely on cell service for comms	No way to call for help in emergencies, isolation.	Carry a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon for remote areas.
Not having a water plan	Dehydration, illness from contaminated water, unnecessary weight.	Know your water sources, bring sufficient water, or have reliable filtration/treatment.
Wearing inappropriate footwear around camp	Blisters, twisted ankles, tracking dirt into your tent.	Use dedicated camp shoes like the Howser Slides for comfort and cleanliness.

For comfort and cleanliness around camp, use dedicated camp shoes like the Keen Howser Slide women’s.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If the road is listed as “4WD only” and you don’t have it, then find a different campsite because you’ll likely get stuck.
• If fire restrictions are in place, then do not plan on having a campfire because it’s illegal and dangerous.
• If you see fresh animal tracks near your tent, then double-check your food storage immediately because wildlife is likely investigating.
• If the weather forecast shows heavy rain, then ensure your tent is properly staked and your gear is protected because you don’t want a flooded campsite.
• If you’re planning on hiking a significant distance from camp, then make sure your Howser Slides are packed away and you have appropriate hiking boots because they are not designed for trails.
• If you’re near a water source but aren’t sure if it’s potable, then filter or treat it because drinking untreated water can make you very sick.
• If you can’t get cell service, then assume you are on your own for emergencies and act accordingly because help is not a phone call away.
• If you plan on cooking, then choose a spot at least 10-15 feet from your tent because of fire safety.
• If you’re leaving your campsite for an extended period (like a day hike), then secure all food and trash because you don’t want to come back to a mess or a bear.
• If the wind picks up significantly, then check your tent stakes and campfire embers because safety is paramount.

FAQ

Are the Keen Women’s Howser Slide Sandals good for actual hiking?

No, these are strictly casual camp slides. They offer some cushioning but lack the ankle support and tread needed for trails. Stick to your hiking boots for actual trekking.

Can I wear these in the water?

While they’re water-resistant and easy to clean, they aren’t designed for swimming or prolonged submersion. They can get a bit slippery when wet, and the materials aren’t optimized for aquatic use.

How do they fit compared to regular shoes?

They generally run true to size, but slides can feel a bit looser. It’s worth checking reviews for specific feedback on fit for your foot type.

Are they warm enough for chilly mornings?

They offer some insulation, making them better than flip-flops for cooler weather. However, they aren’t insulated boots, so for truly cold conditions, you’ll want something warmer.

How durable are they?

Keen is known for durable footwear. The Howser Slides are built with robust materials that should hold up well for several seasons of typical camp use.

What’s the best way to clean them?

A quick rinse with a hose or a damp cloth usually does the trick. For tougher grime, a mild soap and brush can work, but avoid harsh chemicals.

Are they good for walking to the camp outhouse at night?

Absolutely. Their slip-on design and decent sole make them perfect for those quick, dark trips. The closed-toe design also offers a bit more protection than a flip-flop.

Do they offer good arch support?

For a slide, they offer surprisingly decent support. They’re not orthotic inserts, but they’re a step up from flat, flimsy sandals.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Detailed campsite reviews for specific locations.
• Next: Check official park/forest service websites and reputable outdoor forums for site-specific info.
• In-depth gear reviews for tents, sleeping bags, or stoves.
• Next: Consult dedicated outdoor gear review sites and publications.
• Advanced wilderness survival techniques.
• Next: Seek out certified wilderness survival courses and experienced instructors.
• Permit requirements for backcountry camping or specific activities.
• Next: Always check the land manager’s website for the specific area you plan to visit.
• Detailed bear safety protocols beyond basic food storage.
• Next: Research bear safety guidelines from wildlife agencies like the NPS or USFS.