What these mules are (and aren’t)
Think of these as insulated “camp shoes” rather than bedroom slippers. The big difference is the outsole: you get a proper rubber base designed for traction, not a thin foam sole that’s fine indoors but sketchy the moment you step onto wet stone or frosty decking.
They’re made for quick trips outside, slow shuffles around camp, and keeping your feet warm when your hiking boots come off. They’re not a replacement for waterproof boots, and they’re not built for long, rough hikes — but that’s not the point.
Warmth & comfort
The ThermoBall™ insulation is designed to keep warmth even in damp conditions, and the fleece collar lining adds that “ahhh” factor when you finally get your feet out of stiff boots. For UK winter use, they’re aimed squarely at cold mornings and chilly evenings — especially if you’re on cold ground (van, cabin floor, bothy, tent porch).
If you run very cold, pair them with thicker socks and you’ll get the most from them. If you run warm, they can feel like overkill indoors — but outside, that warmth is exactly what you’re paying for.
Grip & outdoor practicality
This is where the V Traction version earns its keep. The outsole is made with up to 20% recycled rubber and is intended for grip on wet and dry surfaces — ideal for damp flagstones, muddy grass, snowy steps, and the classic “just popping out to…” moments.
The upper is a recycled ripstop with a non-PFC durable water-repellent finish, so it’ll shrug off light moisture, drizzle and surface snow. It’s not seam-sealed, so sustained wet conditions will soak through eventually — but for quick use outside, it’s the right level of protection.
Fit, on/off ease & heel design
The collapsible heel and elastic side panels make them easy to slide on and off — useful when your hands are cold or you’re half-asleep making a brew. The brand rates them true to size, which is what you want from a mule: predictable fit, with enough room for socks.
Tip: if you’re between sizes and want a dedicated “thick sock” camp shoe, sizing up can make sense. If you want a closer fit for barefoot use indoors, stick with your usual size.
Durability & materials
Ripstop is a smart choice for camp footwear — it resists scuffs and snagging better than softer textiles. The recycled P.E.T. upper and recycled insulation are also a nice win if you’re trying to nudge your kit in a lower-impact direction, without sacrificing function.
As with all slip-ons, the main wear points are usually the outsole tread and the heel structure (from lots of stepping on the back). If you treat them as camp shoes rather than daily street trainers, they should hold up well.
Weight & packability
At roughly 462 g per pair, they’re not the lightest “spare footwear” you could pack. But they also feel more secure and capable than ultralight hut slippers. For backpacking, they’re a luxury item; for car camping, van trips, cabins and winter travel, the weight is a non-issue and the comfort payoff is big.
Value & alternatives
At around £65 RRP, they sit in that sweet spot where you get meaningful insulation and a real outsole, without paying “premium expedition bootie” money. The obvious alternatives are:
- Cheaper slipper-mules: often fine indoors, but usually lack traction and wet-surface confidence.
- Down booties: warmer for sleeping, but less durable and often worse outside.
- Winter mules/booties with heavier soles: better for daily street use, but bulkier and less pack-friendly.
If your main need is “warm feet + safe steps outside”, the ThermoBall™ V Traction Mules make a strong case.