We will be in Italy and Switzerland from mid to late June. Switzerland is the last leg of our trip. I'm considering sandals from all the posts I've been reading about shoes but I think I need a closed in shoe for the Gimmelwald area. We will do a little hiking but I'm mostly worried about temps. What do you think?
Thanks
At that time of year in Gimmelwald, temperatures will be quite mild. You won't have to worry about keeping your feet warm. However, there is still quite a bit of snow melt-off in June, so mud will probably be a bigger concern. If you hike off the road, you will need either a decent set of warm weather hiking boots, or a pair of sneakers that you don't mind getting muddy.
I would recomment checking out some of the Keen brand of shoes. While the offer a great sandal as well, I call the 4-Wheel Drive Sandals, because they are great for dry hiking, I am not sure they would be the best in Switzerland. However, they make some great shoes that are comfortable for all around travel. They look good enough that they can be dressed up for an evening out after they have spent the day hiking up and down a mountain. They make a variety of styles, some with beefier treads than others. Leather uppers with a good lug sole should allow you to get by without taking multiple pairs of shoes. Although they may not work with a skirt or dress.
If you want sandals for Italy, make those what you wear on the plane. The easy on easy off aspect of them makes security a breeze.
For any walking and hiking, do not underestimate the value of good socks. Hiking socks by Thorlo or Bridgedale (the Ventum model is great) give comfort and dryness for full day of hiking.
If you are actually hiking--as opposed to, say, walking the easy path from Gimmelwald to Murren--then you will need a walking shoe (at least). Not so much because of temperature, but to protect and support your feet.
Not hiking boots necessarily, but something you can go up and down different grades in comfort.
