Please sign in to post.

Need recommendation for flats that would be comfortable for a lot of walking

This is about me being OCD and wanting to plan for a situation that probably won't happen. My usual walking shoes are LL Bean Sport shoes that stayed amazingly dry during a downpour in Wales. But with 2 weeks in the UK, including Scotland, in May and June, I am wondering what I would do if those shoes were too soaked to wear. Being a fan of the Sarah Murdoch backpack and personal item only way of traveling, I'm thinking that a comfortable and supportive pair of black flats could easily be packed for a back up pair. Anyone have some that you've comfortably worn for a lot of walking? I have average foot, no issues, narrow heel. Thanks.

Posted by
1625 posts

I would never recommend flats for a lot of walking. I have heard so many stories of people with no foot issues developing Planter Factitious on vacation due to bad shoes. I would try to get something with good arch support and a slight wedge heel if you can. The shoes Lola Suggested are perfect, or any shoe like that with the thick wedge heel and built for comfort, plus those are cute!

Posted by
731 posts

Another Merrell fan. I like my Jungle Mocs for a low profile shoe. Good sole for traction if needed plus they are waterproof although I did spray mine for good measure!

Posted by
3940 posts

I love my Blundstone pull on ankle boots. I live in them from Nov-May, and wear them every vacation. I wear them as my winter boot and have walked thru the wettest mess of slush and water and have never had wet feet. I'm currently on my 3rd pair. But they take some breaking in if you've never had a pair, and the fit has to be right. I bought my 3rd pair a half size smaller than normal and couldn't wear them (blisters). That's what I get for saying - oh, they're on clearance, they don't have the correct size but I'm sure this half size down will be A-OK! Had to sell them and get the proper size - and my feet knew they were right.

And bonus - easy on and off if you have to take them off at airport security (I don't up here in Canada).

Posted by
4760 posts

I have a pair of Clarks slip on loafers that have worked beautifully for me. Great arch support, and they survived a deluge in Venice. And they're a little dressier than my usual walking shoes, so they work well in the cities.

Posted by
3551 posts

A light weight shoe like Clarks, Merrell. When u fit them take the appropriate wick away sock with u for proper fitting. Socks like Thorlo or Balegas. A sock is a must to prevent rubbing and blisters.
Then very imp. Use your new travel shoes and socks around home for at least a few wks. True test for fit and comfort.

Posted by
31 posts

Arch support is key for me. ABEO shoes have great arch support. They are sold by the Walking Company. In my opinion, if you have a store near you, it is beneficial to go to have them fit you. If not, they can be ordered online. I took 2 pair of shoes on my last trip. The ABEO 3590 and a pair of hiking shoes. Aetrix is another shoe with great arch support as well. They can be ordered online and they have a great return policy. Both brands have a variety of styles to choose from. These shoes are not cheap, but if your feet hurt, it greatly prohibits travel.

Posted by
4256 posts

Thanks to everyone who responded without even pointing out that this should have gone in a different category! I would have moved it if I knew how. I will check out the Merrills.

Posted by
4256 posts

Thanks to everyone who responded without even pointing out that this should have gone in a different category! I would have moved it if I knew how. I will check out the Merrills.

I used Merrell light-weight day hiking boots with smartwool socks in Scotland. They worked out well. My first day in Scotland, I wore "sensible" black casual shoes. By the end of day, my feet hurt. I was so glad I brought my light weight day hiking boots and smartwool socks. They saved my feet. I left the black "sensible" shoes in my suitcase for the rest of the trip.

In Scotland, there is a lot of up and down hills on concrete sidewalks in the cities. There is also rainy conditions. Having boots just above the ankles gave me a lot of support and made a significant difference. The smartwool socks were a huge help as well. I say go for the boots and spend extra money on smartwool hiking socks. It's worth it!