What is the perfect shoe for traveling? I have been searching for the answer for years. My gripe with shoemakers is that comfort and cuteness are apparently not mutually exclusive. There are many comfortable shoes on the market that are super ugly (in my opinion), although it is getting better.
Ok, let us start by what makes a good shoe for long days of walking.
It is important that your shoe is comfortable for many hours, is appropriate for your activities, supports your arches, cushions your heel, and actually looks cute (ok, I added the last part, but it is true).
Comfort Beats Fashion: It does not matter how cute your shoes are if they are not comfortable. One bad blister or aching feet can ruin your day. I can attest to this. I had a super cute, heeled bootie I brought with me to London that left me with bleeding shredded heels (not kidding). Thank the Maker for Dr. Scholl’s Blister Cushion Pads! True miracle those things!!
Dr. Scholl’s Blister Cushion Pads
Memory Foam Insole (Amazon)
Support and Insoles: Both Kathy and I have our own favorite insoles. By adding a nice pair of insoles, you can make shoes, flats, and boots much more comfortable. If you want to add an insole, keep that it mind as you may want to add a bit to your shoe size. For example, I go up a half size when I add an insole.
Break In Your Shoes: Please break your shoe(s) in prior to your trips. This is an important little step not to be forgotten. Even the most comfortable shoes can cause blisters during their first outing. I have purchased many shoes that seemed comfortable in the store but not after walking around my house for a few hours. Do not rationalize that the shoes just need to be “broken in.” Find shoes that fit from the start.
Note: Do not overlook a quality sock, which aids in reducing the chance of blisters and keep your feet dry and comfortable. Suggest bring the same type of sock with you when trying on shoes.
Note: Keep your destination, weather, and activities in mind when selecting which shoes to pack. For example, Europe’s cobblestone streets are no place for a 3+ inch pump. Add rain or snow to those slippery cobblestones and a rubber sole with ridges/grooves is a must (waterproof is also a nice to have feature).
Note: Feel the inside of the shoes to see if they have any tags, seams, or other material that might irritate your foot.
Over the years I have purchase 100s of shoe (most are returned) on the hunt for cute comfortable shoes. For my trip to Egypt, I literally purchased 38 pairs a shoes in my quest.
The most comfortable and favorite shoes I own
Sofft: Saige Wedge Bootie
Khombu: Corey Waterproof Winter Boot
Pikolinos: Andorra Tassel Bootie
Merrell: Gridway Sneaker
Eurosoft: Gianetta Wedge Sandal (note: comfortable but top material of the foot bed comes apart very easily)
Clarks: Cloudsteppers Sillian Joss Sneaker
Born: Springs Comfort Sandals
B.O.E: Beca Flat
Blando: Vailli 2.0 Waterproof Bootie