Best Walking Shoes: 2003
Foot-loose and fancy-free is not so easy in the wrong shoes. What are the best travel shoes for you and why?
German shoe engineering
Lowa makes a damn good walking/hiking shoe. I have owned a pair of Temest
los for nearly 3 years and they still look brand new. I also own a pair
of the gortex renegades for europes wet winters. Chaco sandals are pretty
posh as well. Check out Lowa's clearance room for deals to good to be true
http://www.lowaboots.com/ecatalog/salemain.cfm
Brad
Fort Collins, CO USA Sun 12/14/2003
SAS shoes are the greatest.
Fifteen years ago my podiatrist prescribed SAS "FreeTime" lace up shoes.
I thought they were the ugliest shoe on the planet, but once on I knew why
he made me buy them. I have traveled everywhere and their thick soles and
total support actually "suspend" me above the pressure. It is the only shoe
I wear (except for dress up) and have them in three different colors. I
can't say enough good things about SAS shoes.
Sylvia E
Houston, TX USA Wed 12/03/2003
Z-Coils
My wife traveled in Italy and Sicily in March, 2003 for seventeen days.
We spent most of that time sight-seeing and walking in Rome, Florence, Naples
and the many other great historic places. We wore Z-coil pain relief footwear.
Not a blister, not a pain during the entire trip. Best theraputic and comfortable
footwear made. Like walking on a cloud. www.zcoils.com
Garry Martinez
Spring Hill, FL USA Sun 11/30/2003
Mephisto Mallory
After developing very sore feet on a trip to Rome, I started paying more
attention to walking shoes. The best I have found are Mephisto's and the
model is called Mallory. When buying Mephisto walking shoes be sure to try
different styles since not all are as comfortable as the Mallory.
Thomas R. Phelps
Sacramento, CA USA Wed 11/26/2003
Mephisto
The best shoes I have ever worn are Mephistos. Expensive yes, but worth
every penny. Other shoes break down and get sloppy. These have support,
they are light and they look good.
Brian
USA Mon 11/24/2003
The Walking Co.
BEST walking shoes ever; find a store called The Walking Company (www.thewalkingcompany.com).
They have a wonderful selection of the most comfortable shoes, clogs, boots,
slippers ever. I bought three pairs. European sizes for most shoes (I wear
women's 8-1/2 so a size 39 fits me perfectly).
Kay Wilhelm
Dublin, Oh USA Thu 11/20/2003
Dr. Scholls
I have an old pair of Vans that would always give me blisters, but they
are casual and nice looking so I wanted to take them with me to Europe.
So I got Dr. Scholl's Gel implants and they worked fantastically. I highly
recommend them to anyone who wants to walk in good looking but foot-damaging
shoes.
Jeremy
LaPorte Ind., IN USA Tue 11/18/2003
Arcopedicos
My traveling excursion have been in the states, but I have walked some cobblestone
streets and rugged paths, and would not leave home without my Arcopedicos!
I teach, and they are also great for standing all day. I got the recommendation
from a friend who had just been to Italy and wore them solely. They're wonderful.
Diane
Statesboro, GA USA Sat 11/15/2003
Best Walking Shoes: Land's End Mocs
Just returned from 2 weeks in Italy. I had planned to wear my most comfortable
shoes, which are Dansko's (the mary jane kind), but it turned out that the
cobblestoned streets of Rome were difficult for me to navigate when I wore
them. I had also brought along a pair of Lands End handsewn mocs, and they
turned out to be just what I needed. Sturdy, non-slip and great in any weather.
We had rain for a day and a half during our trip, and my feet stayed warm
and dry. Great shoe at a great price.
Terri
Wauwatosa, WI USA Thu 11/13/2003
Merrell Shoes
I went to Europe three and a half years ago and bought Merrell shoes. Just
today after these shoes going 10 weeks in Europe, through college and into
my first career, I finally replaced them (and they could still go another
1000 miles!) I am going back to Europe and wanted to start with a clean
slate :-)
Katie
Martinez, CA USA Fri 11/07/2003
Dansko Clogs
There is nothing better than Dansko clogs. I wear the kind that looks like
maryjanes. Stylish and SOOOOO comfy! Well worth the price.
sarah
boston, ma USA Fri 10/31/2003
touring shoes
R ockport world tour: best in price and comfort and true to size for most
occasions. Ecco seawalkers: better on hard surfaces but fit me on the narrow
side. Clarks waltons: great craftsmanship and overall comfort on all surfaces
plus wide fit and toebox (and best looks). Clarks bleakney slip ons. sandals:
Ecco cosmo 1, except they run a little narrow. Born sandals are not as comfy
as Eccos or Birkenstocks.
brad mcdaniel
conyers, ga USA Tue 10/28/2003
Merrill Jungle Mocs
I bought a pair of leather jungle mocs for my trip to Italy this spring.
I waterproofed them before I left. I wore them for two weeks straight (didn't
bring any other shoes). They were comfortable the day I tried them on in
the store, and I did not have a single problem with them in Italy walking
up and down hills, on cobblestone streets, you name it, 12+ hours each day.
I am prone to blisters, and I did not even have any "hot" spots.
Dominique
Eagan, MN USA Thu 10/23/2003
Wolkys & Naots
Yay Wolky Colorado sandals!! I have to agree with you about the comfort
of these great shoes. I wore these sandals for two solid weeks all over
Italy and had no pain at all. Due to foot problems this is almost the only
brand of shoe I have worn for the last two years. Recently I found another
I LOVE!! Naot. I don't know the style of the shoe that I'm wearing now,
but they are great also. Right up there with Wolky. Enjoy Italy!!
Susan
Austin, TX USA Tue 10/21/2003
Wolky sandals
I love my Wolky sandals (the Colorado model)! I've worn them everyday this
summer at home including evening strolls AND power walks. I have high arches
and need good support. I also have narrow feet so I enjoy the adjustability
of a sandal. These are the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. Not sure
if I will take these as my only pair of shoes on a trip to Italy we have
planned for the Spring. The weather may not be warm enough. For our last
trip my husband and I both took our Rockports (Pro Walkers) and never had
blisters, etc. But I did have an insert in them for extra support. Not so
with my Wolkys!
J. Lynn
Stillwater, OK USA Mon 10/20/2003
Ecco
I walk to work every day which takes an hour. i have found that ecco shoes
and the sandals with the velcro straps are the very easiest on your feet.
i buy two new pairs of sandals every summer and wear them out by fall, then
it is into the ecco slip ons...but i sure would like to find a waterproof
women's shoe for rainy Vancouver weather.
c
vancouver, bc canada Thu 10/16/2003
Clark's Are the Best!
I bought a pair of Clark's clogs in England, and they are my favorite souvenir!
I had terrible blisters from walking all over Cambridge, but wearing them
was like walking on air. I wore them all over London without any further
problems - and no new blisters.
Cathy
Seattle, WA USA Wed 10/15/2003
Tevas
Tevas Urban leather sandals took me all over Europe, whether walking from
Notre Dame to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and back or wading over
the rocks in the Dordogne River. I got the black fisherman style, which
look great with dresses as well as shorts, and have nothing in common with
the familiar "river rat" velcro Tevas but the waterproofing and the comfort.
One tip, though - these run large, so I take a full size smaller than normal.
Ah, gee...
Tricia
Tallahassee, FL USA Tue 10/14/2003
Ariats
If you want a shoe you can try on the first day and wear for 3 weeks straight,
try Ariat. Made by women, for women. I wore mine, my only pair of shoes
for 3 weeks in Germany and I still love them.
Victoria
Woodland, CA USA Tue 10/14/2003
Chaco sandals & Timberlands
I just finished a 2 week stay in Italy, walking in the hill towns of Umbria,
then in Florence, Pisa and Venice. I wore my Chaco sandals, and was so comfortable,
that's what I'm taking for my next trip. I highly advise getting the sandal
with a backstrap if you are walking in hilltowns. I also took some Timberland
shoes, they are really comfortable, especially those with "Smart Comfort".
A little more "dressy" and good for colder temps, or rainy days when sandals
just won't work.
Ellen
Centennial, CO USA Sun 10/12/2003
Rockports
I like my Rockport World Tours, but needed to put spenco insoles into them
to make them really comfortable; I also took a pair of Ecco sandals on my
latest trip- and did all my hiking in the Cinque Terre in them! It's nice
to have a change of shoes- gives your legs/feet/ankles a break, and helps
give your wardrobe a little variety!
tony
denver, co USA Fri 10/10/2003
Clarks & Nurtures
I found several things that worked really good on our trip last month. Took
along a pair of adidas tennis shoes, the other poster is right it seemed
that many younger Europeans were wearing tennies. The other thing I took
were a pair of Clarks a mary jane style that went with pants or dresses.
Mailed home the Born sandals; they just weren't comfortable enough. There's
a new brand that Dillard's carries called Nurture, they're wonderful and
run around $80 instead of over $100.
Rachel
Phoenix, AZ USA Fri 10/10/2003
Seibel
Josef Seibel makes wonderful walking shoes. I've tried most of the major
brands--Asics, Mephisto, Ecco, Dansko, Rockport--and for my money (admittedly,
they're not cheap), these are the best. I currently have a pair of toggle-fastened
oxfords. Sturdy enough to do an entire day on cobblestones, blister-free,
and the toggle makes the whole upper adjustable as your feet swell in the
evenings. Love 'em!
Rebecca S.
Austin, TX USA Thu 10/09/2003
Tevas
I purchased a $150 pair of shoes at a specialty shoe store before my trip
to Europe last year. I was on my feet all day walking around London, Paris,
and Florence. At the end of the day, my legs didn't hurt and I had no blisters
but I couldn't wait to get my Tevas on. This time I am going to but a pair
of Teva walking shoes; they are a little dressier than tennis shoes and
if they are anywhere close to my Teva sandals, I will be in heaven.
Kaye Norlin
La Salle, IL USA Tue 10/07/2003
Sketchers sneakers
I walked all over europe this summer in my Sketchers sneakers. People used
to say we're not supposed to wear sneakers in Europe, but I don't think
that's true anymore. Most younger Europeans are wearing sneakers with jeans
these days. What I like about Sketchers is that not only they're comfortable,
but they also come in hip styles and darker colors which blend better with
jeans and khakis rather than white tennis shoes.
yuen
philadelphia, PA USA Mon 09/29/2003
Luv my 'Rocks'
Rockports were the best thing for me. Walked all over London and long walks
(Passagiattas!) in Italy with my light brown/tan Rockports. They
went with all my clothes and even did ok on the ouchy!! uneven London cobblestones.
If you can find a shoe that conqueres London's uneven cobblestones, you
can do well anywhere. I'm an overweight guy too..so another pro for Rockports!
Dave
Roseville, CA USA Tue 09/23/2003
Ecco
For warm weather walking, I just bought a pair of Ecco sandals. All the
straps are velcro so everything is adjustable. They're so cushy!
judy
San Francisco, ca USA Sun 09/21/2003
SAS Walking Shoes
SAS are the best walking shoes ever. I have them in sneakers, flats and
sandals. They are so comfortable. I spent a fortune on a pair of waterproof
Mephistos and they kill my feet. Even Consumer Reports rated SAS the best.
Ginnie
Media, PA USA Mon 09/15/2003
Great shoes: Merrills
I recently bought a pair of Merrills hiking boots I love! I have always
dreaded shoe shopping due to my wide foot but Merrills were the answer.
Many of my friends swear by them!
Alissa
Edmonton, Can Wed 09/10/2003
Chaco's!
Chaco's... the environmental flexibility of a Teva with the amazing arch
support of a Birkenstock all in one. May take a while to break your feet
into if you're used to non-supportive soles.
Kristen
Austin, TX USA Wed 09/10/2003
Mephistos - but buy 'em THERE
We've sworn by our Mephistos- and purchased them in Europe, where they are
made, from 50% (and even more when sales are happening) less than they sell
for in the USA.
Jose' K.
Sacramento, CA USA Sun 09/07/2003
Better living through shoes
A big thumbs up for Rockport Pro Walkers!!!
Allen
Lafayette, LA USA Sun 09/07/2003
I have finally found the New Balance 745 walking shoes to be my friend
$79 REI
L Thomas
Alexandria, VA USA Sat 08/02/2003
Nike and sandals worked great!
My wife and I just returned from a three week trip to Italy (through the
back door, sometimes the front too). We're both 30 years old, and for us
we found good 'ol Nike tennis shoes worked best. I also packed a pair of
Nike sport sandals and my wife packed a pair of dressier black sandals (no
heal, but elevated). We literally walked each and every stop without ever
taking any other means of transportation (yes, including the entire city
of Rome and the Cinque Terre too!) We didn't find ourselves getting any
weird looks from wearing tennis shoes, actually, we found ourselves giving
weird looks to those choosing fashion over comfort. Hope this helps...it
was definitely a big sticking point for us when we were deciding what to
pack for our trip (we were there in June).
Chris and Laurie Fryar
Seattle, WA USA Fri 07/18/2003
Merrell Hiking Shoes
Just returned from two weeks in Ireland. I bought a pair of Merrill hiking
shoes from L.L.Bean and was very satisfied. Very comfortable - broke them
in on the trip and they seemed like an old pair of sneakers on the first
day.
Craig Tidball
Warsaw, IN USA Sun 07/13/2003
ECCO Hiking boots and shoes
I highly recomment the ECCO Gore-tex hiking books and hiking shoes. They
are extremely comfortable and require little, if any, break-in time. I have
had two pairs of each over the years and would not trade for any other brand.
Charles Faulkner
Brentwood, TN USA Mon 07/07/2003
Azaleia Walking Shoes
One of the best pairs of shoes I've ever owned for walking is by Azaleia.
It's called the Sheila, and you can get it online, or at Kauffman's or Boscov's
Department Stores. I'm sure it is elsewhere also. It has elasticized side
gores and a very nice sole. My feet never get tired in these!
Sandra
Wilkes-Barre, PA USA Mon 07/07/2003
Easy Spirit Jumpers
Easy Spirit Jumpers are the best shoes I have ever had for walking. I wore
them on the Best of Britian and 4 days walking all over Paris. Marilyn
Marilyn Lasniewski
San Diego, CA USA Thu 07/03/2003
Walking/Hiking Shoes
Had a friend of mine rave about Ecco's Track Terrain shoes, so I thought
I'd give it a try. The sizes are European sizes & unluckily the 39 was too
small & 40 too big (for $179, it better fit right!). Then I dropped by Any
Mountain & tried on Gravis (name of shoe is Century) walking shoes. Wow,
my feet were in heaven! They run about $100 but mine were on sale for 1/2
off. Needless to say, I bought them & look forward to using them on my trip
to England & France in October. As for Sandals, last yr I went to Italy
wearing my leather brown leather Tevas (name of shoe is Pretty Rugged Leather
-$75) everyday for 2 weeks, they are nice & super comfy. Happy Walking =)
FM
SF, CA USA Wed 07/02/2003
Best Walking Shoes
I agree with Brenda - Mephisto is the way to go. My husband has had trouble
with his feet for years - then he bought Mephistos. Can now walk for days.
He now has two pair and I have one. Wore them all day walking on the day
I got them and for several days after with no problems. Well worth the money.
My sister (a nurse) broke her ankle, didn't get it treated for weeks. For
months, the only shoes she could wear were her Mephistos.
J Pustis
Alexandria, VA USA Fri 06/27/2003
Good shoes for men
As many have already stated...ECHO without a doubt are worth every penny
you'll pay for them. I would suggest the gore-tex ones. The leather goes
with anything and they're very light and comfortable. If you're swinging
through Switzerland early in your trip, they're about 1/2 the price there!
RC
Portland, OR USA Wed 06/25/2003
Best Walking Shoe - Merrell
Just returned from a month in Europe, a great part of it walking over cobblestones.
Mine were a pair of slipon Merrells (no laces, etc), and they made me feel
like I was walking on air when trampling all over those fascinating but
uneven cobblestones. Got mine at REI where they will let you try out a pair
AT HOME for 24 hours (just don't get them dirty). You should try a pair
of walking shoes of your selection for that period before you leave for
Europe. Our feet are all different and what works for one may not work for
another. Happy hoofing!
Jason Balrog
San Francisco, CA USA Tue 06/24/2003
Best walking shoes-Geox
Geox! Before my vacation to Italy, I bought a pair of shoes that were designed
for vacation walking but caused blisters on the first day. I found an Italian
brand that privided comfortable, cool walking on the cobblestones of ancient
rome. Look for Geox, they make a variety of athletic and confort walking
shoes, I should have bought more. I guess I'll have to go back to Italy:)
Sharon
San Jose, ca USA Mon 06/23/2003
Mephisto - expensive and worth it!
I've struggled in the past with blisters, and I have problem arches and
problem ankles. I bought a pair of Mephistos for my last trip, and although
they were nearly $300, I had ZERO problems despite tons of walking. I expect
to have these shoes for years, and they will completely resole and recondition
them once for free ($75 value). If you can afford them, get them! I cam
SO glad I did!
Brenda
USA Sat 06/21/2003
Dansko!
If you are walking in Paris or any city - get a good pair of walking shoes.
I bought a pair of Dansko for a trip to Paris and have worn them every day
before, during and after the trip. After a week in Paris walking between
10-12 miles a day (a pedometer kept track)my friend and I never had blisters
or sore feet. We met many Americans who could barely walk with all their
blisters. I also brought a pair of sandals from the walking company. So,
now that I'm back home I'm still wearing my Danskos and walking company
shoes every day. Next step - throwing out all other shoes and buying more
Dansko.
Diane S.
Arlington, VA USA Fri 06/20/2003
Best Walking Shoes
I have problem feet. I was worried about what to wear to Switzerland-Austria.
Found nubuck sandals made by Munro at Nordstroms. Expensive but I went ahead
and bought a pair, black ones, and brought them home. Walked around the
house for a day and ended up going back to Nordstrom and buying a tan pair.
Best investment I made toward my trip. These were the only shoes I took.
The black ones were dressy enough for evening. My feet never bothered me
once. They have velcro closure so you can adjust if your feet swell. Shock
absorbing soles. Happy traveling (and walking).
Marie
Salinas, CA USA Thu 06/19/2003
Best footwear for lots of walking....
Just returned from LOTS of walking during four weeks in Europe; found that
my Chacos were absolutely perfect for "wet" walking and hiking (with wool
socks when chillier) and my Ecco Cosmo II sandals were perfect for "dressier" and for city walking (cobblestones and such). Didn't need anything else!
Hille
Neenah, WI USA Mon 06/16/2003
Walking Shoes
For a new, high-tech alternative,the best walking shoes we have ever discovered
are "Z-COIL" shoes developed in Albuquerque, NM by a runner. They actually
have a steel coil spring in the heal and save much trama on the feet, knees,
and back. More info on www.zcoil.com.
Marilyn Middleton
McIntosh, NM USA Thu 06/12/2003
ARA walking shoes
I found a wonderful pair of German-made shoes at Dillard's. They are ARA's,
lace-up black suede, and very comfortable. I work on terrazzo floors all
day, and these (and Ecco's) are the only ones I now wear. I plan to wear
them to Italy this winter or spring.
Karen
Kaplan, LA USA Wed 06/11/2003
Dansko shoes are the way to go!
Danskos are so amazingly comfortable. I wore the Dansko "Professional" style
everywhere in Paris last year and never once complained about sore feet
and legs. They are very well made, remarkably supportive and are excellent
for travel. Easy to slip on and off and look great, plus there isn't a "break
in" period that I have ever noticed. Europeans say that they can tell an
American instantly by their shoes, but not with these. I bought a pair of
the trendier women's sandals for my trip to Italy in a few weeks. I am confident
they will look stylish enough to fit in and comfortable enough to walk forever.
Emily
Portland, OR USA Tue 06/10/2003
Clark's of England
Another vote for Clark's. After doing some searching I bought a pair for
an upcoming trip to Europe. They are terrific! The best pair of shoes I've
ever had. They felt already broken in the first time on my feet.
Leonard
Orlando, FL USA Mon 06/09/2003
Merrell shoes are the best!!
Merrell Winter Moc are the best shoes I've ever worn!! I bought a pair right
before my trip to Europe & did not have time to break them in at all. I
wore it the entire 3 weeks & my feet never hurt after walking all day long
on uneven cobblestone streets to dirt paths. I walked many miles in those
shoes & no blisters. It has air cushion heels & great traction soles. They
are so comfortable & light weight that it doesn't feel like I have shoes
on--feels more like wearing a pair of socks. They are great for in the plane
& train because I can just slip them on & off--no laces to tie. When it
rained & I had to walk through puddles my feet stayed dried & never got
wet. I wore them with jeans, khaki, & black pants. I love them so much I
just bought another pair.
Alyssa
Burnsville, MN USA Sat 06/07/2003
walking shoes
I bought New Balance 800 walking shoes one size larger than normal to get
plenty of toe room. To snug them up I put Dr. Scholls perforated insoles
under the removable insole. Never a problem with sore feet and very comfortable.
jim boatwright
golden, CO USA Wed 06/04/2003
Comfortable wide shoes
SAS classic flat shoes were great for my wide feet. They were the only shoes
that had enough heel cushion to support my week knees. I walked all over
London and Paris with them.
E Harada
Honolulu, hi USA Tue 06/03/2003
Best Walking Shoes
Best shoes for women's wide feet - Munro shoes provide fabulous fit, comfort,
stability, and durability. I've worn them on several European jaunts, walked
8-12 miles/day and have been delighted.
Beth
Mercer Island, WA USA Sat 05/24/2003
Best closed-toe shoes for me are Finn Comfort, a German-made shoe.
They are pricey, and they have to be broken in at home before your trip,
but they are wonderful. Best open-toe sandals for me are made by Think!
Solid sole, good support, and can dress up or down. I was in Paris during
a transportation strike and had to walk everywhere. I would have died without
these shoes.
Susan
TX USA Sun 05/18/2003
Another vote for Clarks
I tried Ecco, Mephisto, SAS and others but the Clark 27G118C in Fit W was
the only one that was comfortable. With no break in, did 7 weeks in Europe
without any problems.
Terry Dill
Sebastopol, CA USA Mon 05/12/2003
Clark shoes
Having lead many student tours all over Europe, the best walking shoes I
have found are made by Clark. Yes, you do pay a higher price, but my feet
have always enjoyed walking in Clarks. They are great for people who have
wide feet. They are the best.
M. Jamison
Vancouver, WA USA Sat 05/10/2003
Born Oxfords
Born Oxfords are my faves for city treks. I walked all over Paris, Avignon,
and marseille. I took the Born's and a pair of sandals for 2 weeks in France.
It's all I needed.
Cal Bertram
Rhododendron, OR USA Fri 05/09/2003
Dansko clogs
Dansko clogs by far! I work in an assembly plant so I am on my feet all
day. The cost is about $100 but well worth it. No knee pains or back aches.
Rose
MI USA Thu 05/08/2003
Teva Sandals
We just returned from 3 weeks in France and Italy. Before our trip I invested
in a pair of Joseph Siebel shoes I ended up wearing only one day, and a
comfy pair of Merrel clogs I wore on another day, but I ended up living
in my Teva sandals. My feet were very happy!
Lynn Serack
Snoqualmie, WA USA Sun 05/04/2003
Dr. Scholl's Europe
For women looking for an alternate pair of comfortable shoes for their trip,
I'd recommend buying them at a Dr. Scholl's shop in Europe. Unlike the limited
selections offerd in the US, the Dr. Scholl's stores (shoe & foot care stores,
not pharmacies) offer a nice selection of fashionable & comfortable woemn's
shoes at reasonable prices (equiv. $40-$50 USD).
I stumbled across a Scholl's store while in Madrid two years ago & have
been extremely pleased with the slide sandals I bought there. in fact,
many people in the States ask where I got them. but they are sold only
in Europe. I was in Spain again last month, and this time sought out the
Scholl shop in Barcelona, where I got a very nice pair of clog-type shoes
which became my 2nd pair for traveling. These shoes were made in Spain,
but I did see them on a Scholl website for Italy & Germany. Happy walking!
Joana
Seattle, WA USA Thu 05/01/2003
Vasque Shoes
I'm surprised no one has mentioned Vasque's fine shoes. My wife and I both
went on Rick Steve's "Best of Europe" tour with another week spent in London.
We both wore Vasque's Sundowners. They are not cheap (about $175) but will
look like new after a month in Europe! We wore these same shoes for years
prior to our Europe trip (Isle Royale, etc.) and they are still very useble.
I can't see how one could possibly purchase a better shoe for a Europe adventure.
If the style is too "bulky" carry a pair of light weight shoes for the "theater".
I carried a pair of Mephistos for that purpose.
C. Cartwright
Ortonville, MI USA Wed 04/30/2003
Lowa Hiking Boots/Shoes
Love my Lowas. These are the best, I have the low tops, gortex inserts and
a good pair of socks and all the trudging over hill and dale, cobblestone,
through streams and downpours these hiking boots have been a dream. One
hint if you are a woman, consider trying on the men's sizes because they
are wider in the toe part and provide the much needed room and comfort.
That's what I did and never have regreted it for a minute.
Betty
Oak Park, IL USA Sun 04/27/2003
VERY Cheap Eccos, Merrels, etc.
We are going Europe for the month of May and I didn't want to pay $150 for
a pair of shoes. I went to www.sierratradingpost.com and got a pair of leather
Eccos for $29! They are $130 in the store and on other websites. Sierra
Trading Post doesn't have all sizes in all shoes, but they have a good range.
Michelle
SC USA Fri 04/25/2003
Clark's Desert Boots
Hands down it's got to Clark's Desert Boots for me. Five times I've just
taken them out of the box, put them on on the way to the airport, and walked
all over Paris, Brugges, Antwerp,Amsterdam (several times), Maastricht,
Madrid, Florence, Venice, and Rome. Never had as much as a sore foot.
Thom Jefferson
Miami, FL USA Tue 04/15/2003
Eccos
Just returned from Italy, wearing a new pair of Eccos that worked like a
charm and didn't even need to be broken in to be comfortable.
Tim
Columbus, OH USA Sat 04/12/2003
Land's End All-Weather Mocs
Mine have gotten my through hiking and downpours in Spain and Peru. It's
a good feeling to be the only one with dry, comfortable feet in the group!
On both trips these were the only shoes I wore.
Stephanie
Redondo Beach, CA USA Mon 04/07/2003
Timberland ...aahh!
I have been accused of walking my husband's feet into bloody stumps. If
it were not for Timberland shoes with the TravelTek inserts, we would be
divorced by now. They work really well whether standing for hours at the
Louvre, walking cobblestone streets or hiking stony Alpine trails. Your
feet will thank you and your travel partner will, too. Bon Voyage!
Karen Gospo
Bow, WA USA Mon 04/07/2003
best walking shoes
Birkies are the best for me. I am not talking about the sandals, but they
now have nice shoes and some shoe/boots that look good with my clothes.
I added a tiny sponge insole to the cork, so as not to wear it out too fast.
And these shoes are repairable when the heels wear down.
Planet Bubbles
Eugene, OR USA Thu 04/03/2003
Ecco Sandals
I find the Ecco Cosmo II sandals for men to be fantastic. In most other
shoes (including closed-toe Eccos) my feet often hurt, but in these Ecco
sandals I can walk comfortably for hours. I believe that in the past I had
seen them on the web at nordstrom.com but I can't seem to find them there
now; however, www.thewalkingco.com and others seem to have them. I also
saw them at three-quarters the price in Amsterdam last year. Thanks to all
those on this board who steered me toward Ecco!
simon
nj USA Mon 03/31/2003
Shoes
We're an eclectic family. Our teenaged son swears by Merrell mocs, my husband
likes Ecco tie up moc styles and I like Mephisto sandals and Sudinis which
are a bit dressier. Each of us has different shaped feet, arch height etc.
so I think finding the best shoe depends greatly on the individual foot.
I once left my beach bag, towel and sandals on a dock in Bora Bora for a
few minutes and the only thing taken were the Mephisto sandals. I went to
quite a bit of trouble to get new ones exactly like the missing ones because
they looked nice with both pants and dresses and were so comfortable for
my foot.
nancy
Spokane, WA USA Mon 03/31/2003
Alternate to more expensive brands
My husband & I have different types of shoes from many on this site. He
likes his Thom McAnn leather slip ons - he put them on & there was no need
of a break-in period. I prefer Cobbie Cuddlers black lace ups (similar to
Easy Spirit lace ups - but less expensive). I also had no need of a break-in
period (we walked all over SF & Healdsburg - not one single blister or hot
spot) Many of the shoes listed here (Rockport - Clark - Easy Spirit) Just
do not fit our feet very well. My husband has a very high arch & I have
flat feet, so proper arch support is crucial to our being able to walk comfortably
all day.
CSR
CA USA Fri 03/28/2003
Walking Shoes
Softwalks by Trotters produce a slip on shoe model called Adora that are
the most comfortable shoes I have ever traveled with. They come in several
colors. I am not a hiker, but I wore them all over Scotland and London last
summer. My legs got tired, but my feet were fine. I recently wore them in
Hawaii when I wasn't wearing sandals. They are available in several catalogs.
Clyle Alt
Monterey Park, CA USA Fri 03/28/2003
Rockports
Rockport city walkers are good for everything except rugged mountain hiking.
I sprayed mine with silicone waterproofing before leaving and have only
suffered from wet feet during a downpour in Venice.
If you choose to wear them on the flight over, you should know that there
is a steel shank near the heel, and they likely WILL set off the metal
detector. The TSA agents frequently recommend travelers remove shoes before
walking through the portal. You defintely want to do this with Rockports.
Otherwise it's over to the second line for wanding.
Pete Henry
PA USA Fri 03/28/2003
Birkinstocks
I chose Birkinstocks for my walking shoes (yes they make shoes and boots
as well as sandals). They are both stylish and EXTREMELY comfortable as
the cork soles mold themselves to your feet. Better than wearing my Nikes
to Europe...and more comfy, too.
Cory
Chicago, IL USA Thu 03/27/2003
Land's End
I have recently bought shoes from Land's End. Their all weather moc and
their new summer moc. They are so comfortable. A friend of mine that has
problems with her feet has not taken them off since I told her about them.
I have not worn them overseas yet, but I am confident they will be great.
Jeannette
Akron, oh USA Mon 03/24/2003
DANSKOS
Dansko are by far the best shoe ever: wonderful, flexible clogs!
Faye
Ca USA Sat 03/22/2003
Best Walking Shoes
I've had bad feet my entire life and even had to wear steel arch supports
as a child. Now my feet never hurt thanks to BASS shoes. I highly reccommend
BASS shoes. I took three pair of them on my last trip to Paris. Casual sandals,
ankle boots,and dress sandals. The sandals and boots are more comfortable
than a pair of Nikes---really! I walked all over Paris and never thought
about my feet. They're so comfortable I even prefer them to wearing sneakers
here at home. They're based in Massachusettes with outlet stores around
the USA. I'd never leave home without them!
Christina
Glendale, CA USA Tue 03/18/2003
Comfortable Boots
Santana, a Canadian company, makes very comfortable and attractive womens'
boots (about $140). The boots have a low heel, are waterproof and come in
a variety of colors. These are not for serious hiking, but they perform
really well when you are doing a lot of urban walking. I wore them during
a week-long Christmas trip to New Orleans where I was walking constantly
on irregular street surfaces, and didn't have any foot discomfort.
Amy
San Francisco, USA Tue 03/11/2003
Comfy shoes
Definitely the best shoes are Aerosoles. Lightweight, comfy, flexible and
fashionable too! I love my Aerosoles...they're great for bumming around
at home and strolling the cobblestones of Europe.
Valerie
Albq, NM USA Fri 03/07/2003
$125 down the drain
I hate to disagree about Munro American shoes, but after a week of screaming-sore
heels, I've gotta speak up. I'll say this for them: The arch support is
very good, and they come in a variety of sizes and wide widths (very important
if your feet tend to swell, like mine do). But the "shock absorbant" heels
that I spent the beaucoup bucks for are non-existent. The shoe didn't do
much for overall cushy foot comfort, either. I spent a small fortune in
Rome on Dr. Scholls foot pads (2 pads inside still weren't enough) and heel
cups -- and those things only helped a little. I've been home for 2 days,
and my heels STILL hurt.
My advice: Don't worry about looking like a tourist. Most people will
already know you are anyway. Wear the most comfortable shoes you own or
can find. After 3 days, I would've given almost anything for my Avia cross-trainers
(like walking on air).
Sherita Bryant
Southfield, MI USA Mon 03/03/2003
Best shoes ever
MUNRO shoes are the best in the universe. I bought my first pair four years
ago, and now I can't stand to wear regular shoes. They are more comfortable
than going barefoot. I am a very frequent traveler and wanted/needed comfortable
shoes.
Gwen
Seattle, WA USA Sat 03/01/2003
Chaco's Sandals worked for me
I backpacked through Europe for three months last August/September/October
and wore nothing but Chaco's sandals. (http://www.chacosan.com/) These things
are tough and saw me through pavement in London, castle walls in Wales,
Normandy beaches, Roman cobblestones, volcanic pumice at Vesuvius and Santorini,
and innumerable ruins in Italy, Greece and Turkey. Their Vibram soles really
cling to the rock and they're extemely comfortable, too. I literally walked
miles and miles every day for 90 days with no problem. I wore them with
thick hiking socks. Only twice did I get caught in the rain with them and
got my feet wet. Highly recommended - plus you never suffer from odors or
blisters or clamminess.
Dan Stephenson
Grand Prairie, TX USA Tue 02/25/2003
Walking shoes and inserts
After several trips across the seven continents I can honestly say I would
only wear Ecco Gortex hiking boots. However, as I have aged (nearing 60)
I have found that custom orthotic inserts I had made by a DC, added to the
Eccos, have made an incredible difference. Before, anything over an hour
or two went straight to my twice operated upon right knee. With the orthotics,
I can go at least five hours before the arthritis kicks in. I only wish
I would have known about this fifteen years ago.
Bud Dorholt
Sheboygan, WI USA Sun 02/16/2003
Winter travel shoes
My husband swears by his New Balance walking shoes and also loved his Merrells.
My Teresia (sp?) basic black, leather, low-heel no-frills have gotten me
through at least six weeks of heavy traveling in cold weather. Excuse the
spelling -- these are German shoes bought at a local shoestore. Fab-o!
Shelley
Hudson, NY USA Wed 02/12/2003
Rain Boots for Venice
Venice and Acqua Alta!! We just returned from a most wonderful trip around
Italy. January in Italy was very diverse in temperature but rain this year
seemed to be a constant...lot's of it! I knew I was going to have to drag
boots around and I finally settled on Kamik! C. $60 Brand new never broke
them in. What a terrific boot. Warm felt (removable) liner and absolutely
waterproof. 4 Acqua Alta's in one week in Venice and we just waded through.
They are also light weight so you can walk all day and night.
codybrandy
Boston, Ma USA Thu 02/06/2003
best walking shoes
Before I left for a 3 week trip to the UK and France, I purchased a pair
of Hush Puppies ankle boots. These were the most comfortable shoes I've
ever worn for traveling. They work well for rain, snow, cobblestones, steep
steps, and wear well too.
Niki
Long Beach, CA USA Sun 02/02/2003
Seibel clogs
I have a pair of Seibel closed back clogs that have logged hundreds of miles
on cobblestone all over Europe. They can be worn with all but the dressiest
clothes. They have a nubby rubber insole to massage feet. This also keeps
feet cooler. Got mine at normthompson.com. I need to have them re-soled,
but I hate to give them up for even a week.
Maureen
Heidelberg GE, USA Sun 01/26/2003
Soccer Shoes
Adidas indoor soccer shoes have been great for me as I traveled through
Europe. They were comfortable and helped me to fit in with the rest of the
soccer-loving European Continent.
Rick Williams
Clearwater, Fl USA Mon 01/20/2003
Best Travelling Shoe
The coolest, most confortable shoes are made by Gravis. I took the Factors
with me this past summer to Europe and they rocked. You can't go wrong with
Gravis.
Adolfo Gomez
yorba linda, ca USA Tue 01/14/2003
Best Walking Shoes: Mephisto
No question, it's Mephisto's RUSH style. www.mephisto.com -- search Google.com
for sites that sell Mephisto over the Internet (a very good source is located
in Denver, CO).
Suzy Rice
USA Sun 01/12/2003
Romika shoes
I have been wearing comfort shoes for years. So far my favoites are Joseph
Siebel. I have tried one style of Ecco and found they did not have enough
arch support for me. I had some Romika clogs about 10 years ago, they are
a little less pricy than some other brands. I would like to hear from anyone
who has worn these shoes in recent years about how comfortable and supportive
they are for lots of walking.
Sally
Panama City, FL USA Sat 01/11/2003
My Best Walking shoes
Wolkey sandals-Colorado and SAS Free Time took my tootsie all over Italy's
cobble stone steep streets. SAS for the day walks and the sandals for evening
when I thought I couldn't walk a step more. I have had foot surgery on both
feet, which are are now wider than before,the SAS accomodated my orthodics
and I didn't need them in the sandals because of the superior support they
had. I tried these shoes out because of this site and the recommendations
from the folks who post here. Oh yes Italians where white nikes, rockports,
wilsons--you name it sports shoes with their jeans while travelling or going
to the store. Add color to you black wardrobe and you will not stand out.
Lenne
Glen Ellyn, Il USA Fri 01/10/2003
All my shoes are walking shoes now
The Walking Company sells orthotics that I put in every pair of shoes that
have a removable insole. I had been experiencing awful heel pain, and they
recommended a pair with high arches. They cost $50 and were worth every
penny. Now the only problem I have is locating the last pair of shoes I
was wearing to swap them out. So if you have a pair of shoes that don't
give you blisters but you don't feel have enough support, try this--it may
help. I have the Lands' End AW clogs, Nike Hiking boots, and Aerosole square
toed oxfords, and all instantly became the most comfortable pair of shoes
in my closet by replacing the insole.
Kim
USA Fri 01/10/2003
Danskos
Danskos are by far the best shoe ever. The traditional version is a clog,
with flexible sole, all model are wonderful, and i would not go anywhere
without them. I where them to work, standing on cement all day, with no
problems. There is even a sport clog with a wicer base that is great for
less traveled paths.
Faye
Arcata, Ca USA Fri 01/10/2003
walking shoes
I've just returned from 10 days in Germany enjoying castles, churches and
the delightful Christmas Markets in big cities and small towns. I tried
the Lands' End AWMoc at home and found them stiff and too hard soled. In
a last minute stop at Wal-Mart 2 days before leaving, I spotted a shoe that
looks almost the same as the AWMoc by Dr. Scholls. The upper is softer and
more flexible and the sole had more cushion. I wore them on cobblestones
and pavement throughout the trip - we did a LOT of walking, even in rain.
The shoes were great and kept my feet dry in a couple of downpours! I know
you should NEVER take new shoes on such a trip but these are an exception!
Charlie Ellinger
Los Altos Hills, CA USA Wed 01/08/2003
walking shoes
My ugly slip-on ECCO's ($107) go everywhere with me. I tried every comfy-looking
shoe on in a store one day and chose the most comfortable -- money should
be no object when it comes to this travel item. They're light and my hard-to-please
feet and high arches thank me for them. Europeans love them [but, admittedly,
they don't have the greatest shoe aesthetic :)].
Tricia Langaker
Calabasas, CA USA Wed 01/08/2003
Rockport XCS
I purchased a pair of Rockport XCS for our March 2003 trip all around Europe,
I put these hiking boots on and they were like walking on a cloud. Did not
have to break them in at all. I would suggest anyone to try these shoes.
Shirley
MI USA Tue 01/07/2003
Good summer shoes
I bought $80 leather Rockports before I went to Europe, but I needed better
shoes for hiking. I purchased NIKE sport sandals (Teva-style) in Italy for
about the same price, but wore them the majority of the time. It was especially
nice in the not-so-great hotel we stayed in where the floors were gross
and I didn't want to walk barefoot. They were nice as shower shoes too!When
they got real dirty, I just rinsed 'em in the bathtub in the evening. I
need a lot of arch support in my shoes, and the sandals were fairly do-able.
Amy
Arlington Heights, IL USA Tue 01/07/2003
Great shoes
Not a lot of people mention SAS shoes. I have hard to fit feet and only
SAS has my size. They are so comfortable. I walked all day and my feet were
not tired at all. I'm planning to wear them to my Europe trip this coming
fall.
USA Mon 01/06/2003