best shoes for European megatrip, Normandy, Switzerland, London

With your medical history, I really think this is a question you should ask your doctor. And even then I'd buy shoes I could return if necessary after wearing them around my house for a while.

I agree with acraven, you should be asking your podiatrist for recommendations.

You may get more answers if you post this in the walking shoe forum instead of in technology. https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/best-travel-shoes The Webmaster can move it for you if you email him.

But I agree with others, talk to your doctor and podiatrist for their recommendations. Once you find shoes that you think will work, break them in thoroughly before your trip. Don't be surprised if you go through several pairs during your search. Unfortunately you need to do a lot a walking to know if the shoes will be comfortable and give you stability.

Socks are important too. I wear Wright Coolmesh anti-blister socks. Last trip I added Vim & Vigor support socks to the mix. Their cotton blend kept my legs cooler than nylon.

You might want to consider taking two pairs of shoes with you so that you can give your feet a change. I can’t make recommendations for your needs but I know for my feet at the end of a day of walking, I need a change of shoes. In my case I go from good sneakers with orthotics to good walking sandals. You might find a lighter walking shoe works for you but as everyone else said consult your doctor.

Arches in shoes probably don't need to exist because what you need to support the arch of your foot is the muscles of your foot. Arch support would be like a crutch that takes away your foot muscles need to work, or weakens your foot muscles.

Most shoes have a raised heal. I walk in Altra running shoes. They are zero drop. Zero drop means the heel is the same height as under the forefoot. A shoe can't fix your feet. A shoe can feel like a "necessary" crutch. Can you walk ok barefoot in your house?

Like Mike, I use the Altras and have for years. BUT I was used to negative heels when I transitioned to them so didn't have the problem some people have if they are transitioning from a shoe with a raised heel. IF you decide to try the zero drop platform give yourself at least 3 months before your trip to see if they work for you.

When are you traveling? Are you walking at home now? Do you have anything that is comfortable?

There is an online functional podiatrist, Dr Emily Splichal who has some products that are supposed to help with neuropathy but I have no experience with that. I do use her neuroball to stretch the fascia of my feet each morning. She also has insoles with texture on them that are supposed to stimulate neuropathic feet. I take the neuroball with me on European trips as well to stretch in the AM and PM. For my feet (plantar fasciitis history) I find I need a multi-faceted approach (neuroball, MELT balls, Correct Toes toe spacers and zero drop shoes) to keep my feet in "touring Europe" shape, hahaha!

I hope you find something that works for your feet!