NRC Full Shoe Review

Review Summary

by Nick Pang, of Minimalist Running Shoes and NRC shoe review editor

When I first approached Patagonia about a casual/dress minimalist shoe, I had the Patagonia Loulu in mind because of it's wide toe box, dressy look, and most importantly, non-heeled. But they quickly suggested the Patagonia Pau and Patagonia Advocate Moc. And they were right as those two models are much more flexible, lighter, and more comfortable than the Loulu. The Loulu weights 12.2 ounces, the Pau 11.4 ounces, and the Advocate Moc is only 5.0 ounces.

Patagonia calls the Advocate "the ultimate travel shoe. Smash it into your glove box, backpack or carry-on and pull it out at camp." The slip-on's 100% supersoft synthetic leather upper is also durable.

Recycled (20%), dual-density EVA anatomical footbed and 2mm (my digital calipers say 4mm though) insole lend cushioning support. Lateral and medial elastic stretch bands provide comfort and easy on-off. Rear pull loop provides easy on and off. Without the insole, the midsole/outsole is a measured 6mm. The dense armadillo-style outsole provides traction and durability.

Summary: Patagonia Advocate Moc is super-light, ultra-flexible, and oh so comfortable. And whisper-quiet. I find the toe box wide enough for all the miles of walking that I do daily.

Patagonia labeled the Advocate as 'the ultimate travel shoe. Smash it into your glove box, backpack or carry-on and pull it out at camp.' The slip-on's 100% supersoft synthetic leather upper is also durable.

Recycled (20%), dual-density EVA anatomical footbed and 2mm (my digital calipers say 4mm though) insole lend cushioning support. Lateral and medial elastic stretch bands provide comfort and easy on-off. Rear pull loop provides easy on and off. Without the insole, the midsole/outsole is a measured 6mm.

The dense armadillo outsole provides traction and durability.

The Advocate is partnered with 1% For The Planet®, a growing global movement of companies that donate 1% of their sales to a network of environmental organization worldwide.

1% for the Planet is helping to tilt the scales of giving toward the thousands of under-funded non-profits dedicated to the pursuit of sustainability, to preserving and restoring the natural environment.

Patagonia Advocate Moc - super-light, ultra-flexible, and oh so comfortable. And quiet. I find the toe box wide enough for all the miles of walking that I do daily.

Shoes Mentioned in This Review