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My current walking/traveling shoes

Posted by (Michigan) on

I posted this in response to someone else's question but thought I'd make a separate topic, since it's always a hot one lol

Reiker/Remonte boots Liv 72. I have these in black, and the laces are plain (unlike what is shown in the zappos link). I have not tested them on cobblestones, but have worn them in NYC where I walk quite a bit on varying surfaces. Very comfy and warm, possibly too hot for an 80 degree summer day, but maybe not. Tread seems like it would be quite grippy for cobbles, etc. Water resistant at least, haven't tried plunging into a puddle (yet). I like that they are in the "stylish dressy sneaker" category, so can be casual or paired with nicer pants and you still look cool. Lightweight, not clunky. Very packable, tucked along one side of my carry-on..

Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 hiking boots. I got mine online via Dick's Sporting Goods, but Zappo's and others have them as well. I have been hiking locally with these and they are great. Super comfy and warm. Cushy without being mushy. Very grippy (Contintental Tire soles!), very water resistant. The "sock" upper is not for everyone (and there are some versions without it), but I like it and even with my high arch/instep, I don't have much trouble getting into the boot. Also, not too heavy! Lots of different versions, too - Goretex if you want waterproof, various rises - low, mid and high. I would probably wear these on a plane rather than pack them, but we'll see!

I also like Allbirds, although I don't think their new stuff is as good as the originals. And they have the usual durability issue that many "sustainable" shoes have. That said, I think the Trail Runners are a solid choice. Light-weight, they have some water resistance, but also dry quickly. Took these to Sicily, Rome and Sorrento last spring, they did well for me on all surfaces.

I want to add - don't forget good socks. I like the lightweight merino wool socks from Costco, but just got some Dri-Tech socks made by Dickies of all places, and they are fantastic - nice, light-to-medium weight, don't bunch up, dry fast, and come in different styles.

Posted by
717 posts

Just bought a pair ofVessi because they looked cute in ad and were said to be waterproof. They were great during our recent trip where it rained or poured daily. Feet dry and very comfortable on cobblestones.

Posted by
92 posts

Thank you Dianejay for mentioning the Vessi shoes. They keep popping up on my facebook ads and look so promising, it is nice to have a recommendation from a regular forum user.

Having twice been caught with sodden shoes I always travel with a backup pair. It has taken time to convince my husband to do this and men's size 11s are just so much bigger/heavier than my shoes. The wool allbirds have worked well as a backup for him- compressable and lightweight. They function as a slightly nicer looking pair (over sneakers or hiking boots). He says they aren't super supportive so he wouldn't want spend a whole trip in them but good enough to serve as backup while others are drying.

Posted by
3155 posts

I have Vessi shoes, and while mine are indeed waterproof, they are not supportive enough at all to go for walks of any length.
I just slip mine on for running errands, or going somewhere where I’m not walking much.
Mine are the “Cityscape Classic”.
I love them, but I would never pack them for a trip.

Posted by
92 posts

Thanks S J for the comment. I may try them like you for local errands/dog walking. Currently in the rain I just use unsupportive Skechers that get soaked but dry easy, so it would be a step up from that :) I see that the Cityscape classics have a removable insole. If I can add my arch support and metatarsal pad that would help.

Posted by
370 posts

Dianejay.
So glad Vessis worked for you. I was disappointed that they were too wide and not enough support for my feet, so I had to send them back. I liked the look of the booties.

Posted by
6585 posts

I still love my Oboz low-leather walking shoes and I'm up to 3 pairs now. They're comfortable, sturdy, and very supportive. In fact, it's the first time I've not had to worry about tripping in a pair of shoes. My feet have a wide toe box, a narrow heel and a high arch, and these shoes are perfect for that. The low-leather shoes are water-resistant (and work very well at keeping out dampness) but they do have shoes that are waterproof.

Posted by
206 posts

I have Oboz B-dry, supposedly women specific design and the non-slip sole with proprietary rubber material. Comfortable and durable. The waterproof aspect makes them a bit warm on hot days but when we travel in shoulder season they are great, and the only shoes I bring.

Posted by
4677 posts

I bought my first pair of Rieker Remonte Liv high top "sneakers" on travel trial for a Christmas Markets trip. They were my main shoe for my next 2 cool weather trips, were comfortable for my 10+ mile days, and kept my feet dry in light snow and rain.

I added an extra pair of arch supports in each pair and don't get any walking pains.

I just bought a second pair in a different color and a black pair is on my wish list.

ETA: black Rieker Remonte's came available in my size. My feet are so happy and I have 3 color choices!

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