Leaving next week on the GAS tour and looking at my packing list. Concerned that taking hiking shoes for the Alps will require me to pack 2 pair of shoes. This is a lot of space taken for shoes if I wear the hiking shoes on the plane. Are hiking shoes really needed. I do plan on hiking the Mannlichen-Kleine scheidegg route and the north face trail from Allmendhubel. RS says these are pleasant and easy but I don't know if hiking shoes are needed. Having never really hiked before I wonder if walking shoes would work. We are only in the Alps for 2 days of the 12 day tour. Though they are comfortable to wear in the cities, they look like tennis shoes. Just trying to fit it all in a carry on size suitcase.
Posted by
Long Beach, California, USA
3398 posts
I have only worn hiking boots when doing the longer, multi-day, more rugged trails in the Alps. Most of the time, even on trails where it's rocky and some scrambling is required, I just wear my sturdy tennis shoes and it's been fine. If you're only hiking for two days then definitely don't take boots.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
7797 posts
The trail from Mannlichen-Kleine Scheidegg is very well groomed & wide - no need for special shoes. Just wear what you're planning for lots of walking during the rest of the trip.
Posted by
OP
DURHAM, NC
55 posts
Thanks for the information. My suitcase got lightler.