Any thoughts on what footwear (especially women's sandals) is good for walking around Rome, Florence, etc? We have tennis shoes/trainers that we would normally wear in the states, but I'm not sure that those will be best. Input on men's and women's brands/models would be much appreciated! We plan to do a lot of walking, and are looking to remain blister-free. Thanks!
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
295 posts
Dansko, Keen, Naot, Eccos and Clarks all have good walking sandals. They have good traction and have some that look good with shorts, capris and skirts. Never got blisters but I wear compression socks on the plane.
Posted by
Central Florida
484 posts
I like "walk the walk" sandals (buckle strap). You can google search for it. Sold through individual distributors. Or, I can get you the number. Google "The Shoe Guys."
Posted by
Tucson
4183 posts
I'm still liking my Abeos from the Walking Company. Good styles and designed for different support needs.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area
5697 posts
Keens have the advantage of toe protection. I wore mine all over Rome and Sorrento -- too cold in Florence and Venice in October.
Posted by
Imperial, Missouri
1004 posts
I love my Merrell Agave sandals and they are great for all day walking. I have had the same pair for over two years. I wear them often in the summer, and they still feel good on my feet. One issue with walking in cities in open sandals-by the end of the day, my feet are really dirty!
Posted by
45 posts
Birkenstocks are fabulous! Just got back from 3+ weeks in Italy & Greece. I wore mine every day and never had a problem. I took my Asics running shoes as well, just to have a closed toe, but it was June-July and the Birks were so much cooler. I had the ones with a back strap, not the slip ons. I had never worn Birks before, but now I'm a convert and will buy more!
Posted by
Southport, NC
398 posts
Taos sandals are really beautiful and comfortable, plus there are many styles to fit any foot type. My Abeos are also very comfortable, and I just saw a new style of Birkenstock with a back strap (import for all day walking). My husband swears by his Columbia sandals, and wears Merrell walking shoes for closed toe days.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
8015 posts
Hi Jamie,
If you look at the Travel Forum "Tips & Trip Reports" column, use the Select Your Category to select the "Best Walking Shoes for Travel. I posted "Women's Travel Shoes" a year ago, and it keeps getting more comments - up to 50 now. Just had another post to it yesterday. Lots of people have provided great advice and the reason why they like specific brands, shoes, or sandals.
Hope that helps!