I just returned from a two weeks travel in Central Europe, and I wanted to pass along a tip to those interested. I took two pairs of supportive shoes—sneakers and another pair (non sneakers).
In all the trips abroad I have taken, and with all of the different shoes I have taken, I always ended the days with achy feet that were often still achy the next morning. With this trip, I had achy knees and hips at various points of the trip (not surprising, since I carry extra weight and really need to be in better shape), but my feet were never particularly achy, and they never swelled. I honestly think the difference may have been my socks. I always wear good socks for long-distance walking, but I gave ankle-length compression socks a try for this trip. Specifically, I wore Bombas ankle compression socks. (I took knee length compression socks for the plane, but the Bombas were my daily wear socks.)
It has been said here often, and I agree, that shoe choice is individual. But don’t discount the importance of good socks. I’m now sold on traveling with compression socks for my sneaker days.
Just my 2 cents’ worth.