shoes for Ireland in late August: sandals? boots?

Unless you plan to strike off into the bush for some serious hiking a pair of boots would be unnecessary.

I'm guessing from your name you're female, Liz? I predict you will see plenty of women in Ireland wearing fashion boots, not so much hiking boots except out in the country. Boots with jeans tucked in (skinny jeans, perhaps also leggings) are a popular mode of dress and very practical because when it rains your trouser legs won't get wet. Apply waterproofing spray thoroughly before leaving home.

I would bring two pairs of shoes as you plan to do. I would not bring sandals. Only because if it is rainy and one pair gets wet, you don't want to wear sandals in the rain while the other pair drys out. I have been on the 14 day Ireland tour and it is a lot of outside hiking, siteseeing, scenery and not a lot of churches or museums. It is not Italy, it really is more sneakers, walking shoes and boots. I would bring a closed pair of shoes. You need something sturdy, not afraid if the shoes get muddy or wet and you go into a lot of pubs at night and it just is better to bring another pair of shoes that you can do a lot of walking in.

Have a great time, it is a beautiful country.

Thank you for the useful suggestions. I appreciate your ideas! --Lizg

We just returned from a 26 day trip. What worked for us was a pair of waterproof hiking sneakers and a pair of sandals. What I usually did was wear the sneakers during the day and the sandals in the evening. My feet were happy to have some breathing room at the end of each day.

Thank you! Your response is very helpful.