Shoes for walking around Europe

[A.W.U.K.]

Hi, I don't know about where you live but in most of Europe mid-September is early winter rather than late summer! Unless you're going to Greece or somewhere, the sandals shouldn't be necessary.
Comfort and waterproof-ness most important in the shoes, I think.

Andy.

 

[kinzli]

Hi, I don't know about where you live but in most of Europe mid-September is early winter rather than late summer! Unless you're going to Greece or somewhere, the sandals shouldn't be necessary.
Comfort and waterproof-ness most important in the shoes, I think.

Andy.

Exactly AWUK, we'll be in the Greek Islands...thanks!

 

[Blue Jays]

Hi kinzli-

Motor vehicle accidents, not to mention grisly motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians are legendary in Greece given their rather loose interpretation of traffic laws.

Greece is common point of entry for terrorists moving from east to west. They're about as "useful as a sieve for carrying water" in that country when it comes to criminality that may ultimately affect American citizens.

It sounds more and more like you need sturdy and reliable shoes/boots in which you could run if needed...or rapidly change direction if that is what conditions dictate. The country sights are beautiful, but you positively DON'T need sandals there...you'll be best served by something very supportive with a good shot of athletic capability.

~ Blue Jays ~

 

[RandomMan]

I got back from Greece in January(Greek Islands are GORGEOUS!). For shoes, I packed two pair, a basic pair of Adidas tennis shoes for walking and running, and a pair of Doc Martens for dress and lighter walking.

We hiked up the mountain side to Ancient Thira(mountain trail, not walking up the road) on Santorini, it was 1200 meters from sea level(we started about 25 meters above sea level), to the summit(you can only go to within about 50 meters of the summit). I wore the Adidas tennis shoes that day and had absolutely zero problems with my feet after going up and then back down the mountainside.

Athens was wet, but the tennis shoes worked great for navigating the streets. At night when we went to dinner I opted to wear the Doc Martens, which are water proof and dressier.

You can't go wrong with a good walking based shoe, as most of the challenges you'll face in Europe will be walking oriented. After two weeks in Greece I was glad I had opted to pack a pair of light weight tennis shoes along with my Doc's, it made the trip easier on my feet and stamina.

Good luck and enjoy Greece! I'm dying to go back already.

-Rob

 

[mwelch8404]

Don't forget Rockports. I have a pair of XGR's which cover a wide spectrum of use. I can hike in them, then give them a quick wipe with a rag and they do ok as dress shoes with good trousers. These are new but my last rockports lasted 15 years. They also look more subtle and conservative than other street hikers.

Over years of travel I've learned the value in being slightly better dressed. That lightweight, military/safari style gear may be marginally more practical but only people with 5% body fat look good in it and you may as well put a bright fluero (TOURIST!) sign on your back.

I lean towards smart casual, shoes and socks and steer away from shorts and Teva's nowadays. The locals seem to treat you better (especially in Asia) when you are better dressed.

ROCKPORT. Bingo. I've been wearing various Rockports for years, and just can't find anything better. I was recently at the podiatrist with the wife (she had a bone spur) and discussed this with him - he said the Rockports were "probably the best" otc shoes. He recommended adding a pair (I really didn't have any probs unless I spent a day walking on concrete and I'm 5' 11" now and 285.) of SUPERFEET supports - top of the line for hikers, etc. I spoke w/ him and when he custom fits, he just cuts the plastic base back just shy of the ball of your foot to keep the ball area soft. Works like a charm. I move the superfeet to whatever I wear, now. THe SUperfeet make the Rockports better than perfect. SWEET.