My husband and I are planning to visit Porto in October for 10 days. I have MS, and sometimes my coordination isn't the best. I was wondering if anyone has experience with which shoes work well on cobblestones, specifically wet ones, so that I have a lower chance of slipping and falling. Thank you so much for any advice!
Posted by
USA
781 posts
Shoes with a genuine grippy rubber sole might be a good idea for you, such as Van's skateboarding shoes.
Posted by
TX
2844 posts
I will suggest Chaco's which are made in Colorado.
I believe that the American Podiatry Association recommends them and that hikers use them.
I have mobility issues and Chaco's were recommended to me by a very good retail shoe store.
More recently, I have been using Sketchers and like them. I suggest that you check them out.
And I suggest that you check with the M S Association, your doctor and a podiatrist. See what they recommend.
Posted by
SE Pennsylvania
3005 posts
I like Vibram soles. They are available on a number of shoe brands, so see if a brand that fits you well has them.
Altra shoes have been recommended by others on the forum, and I'm a recent convert. If you need a roomy toe box and have a narrowish heel as I do, they are great. Styles with Vibram soles have a + after the name.
https://www.altrarunning.com
Posted by
Frankfurt, Germany
9486 posts
What has worked well for me are light hiking boots. The cobblestones there are brutal and a thin soled shoe would mean very painful feet for me. The extra support in the ankle may be good for you too.
Do you use poles? Porto is hilly, so poles might be a good option for you too. If you choose that, watch some videos on how to use them. Many people use them incorrectly.
Posted by
Alsenborn, Germany
2136 posts
If you walk on cobblestones (or any uneven path) without fairly stiff soles and support you'll pay for it. I use a set of lightweight Columbia hiking boots and a pair of Mephisto walking shoes. Merrill are good also. But I'd pack a set of water shoes (like Teva) for when you go down to the beach.
Posted by
Virginia, USA
6228 posts
I’d look for either trail runners or hiking shoes or hiking boots, depending on how much support you need.
Trail runners are lighter and the sole is not as stiff as hiking shoes. The tread is similar to hiking shoes.
I wore trail runners in Portugal and found they worked well on the tiled streets. They are similar to wearing a sneaker, but with more grip on the bottom. If you need more foot and ankle support, go with either a hiking shoe or boot.