Rain Shoes/Boots recommendation

Buy an umbrella when you're there. Otherwise, don't worry about any extra rain cover unless you plan on going out of your way to walk around in rain. Unlike those violent cloud bursts you experience in Texas, the rain in NW Europe usually falls lightly for longer periods of time. As long as you don't step directly in a large puddle, you feet will stay relatively dry.

We like to travel spring and fall and usually have many rainy days. I purchased a pair of waterproof Mephisto oxford shoes on sale from Zappos and they have been great. Having comfortable walking shoes and dry feet are important when you are outdoors for 6 hours/day.

I bring an extra pair of insoles for my shoes and have found them useful on a couple of occasions. Made the next day after the downpour more comfortable. I've not found particularly practical "overshoes", but I'm hoping someone makes a suggestion to you. I know Totes does make some overshoes that are portable, but the ones I saw didn't really work with my walking shoes.

I'll underline what Carole has said: definitely bring some sort of waterproof walking shoe. It will definitely rain, andi doesn't have to be a gully washer for your feet to get wet in regular shoes. And there's nothing more miserable than touring around with soggy feet (okay, yes there are things WAY more miserable than that, I realize I'm exaggerating!). But still dry feet = happy camper.

Amanda,
Regardless of the shoe you wear, very few are truly waterproof. Take an extra pair of socks in a zip lock bag in your purse. They have saved the day more than once. TC

Overshoes are the answer. If what you consider to be "your size" doesn't fit over your walking shoes, get a larger size. You could also try men's sizes.

Amanda, if you do a Google search: totes-isotoner.com
then go to Rainwear you will find a set of womens slip on overshoes for $11.99. These are light weight, economical and may be what you need. I used to use the mens model.

We buy waterproof spray at the shoe store and spray our shoes well before leaving home. We've been in a few downpours but only once out of 14 trips did we need to search for and purchase more shoe spray while we were in Europe.

Amanda , have a look at merrell " moab" Style shoes . There are 2 variations ; low cut and mid cut . They are waterproof and gore tex lined and are terrific ! My wife and myself bought them for our upcoming trip and have broken them in over the last several weeks . They are extremely comfortable and waterproof. During our trip we will be in the swiss alps for a period of time and they look like they will be perfect . Hopefully someone else will check in with other perspectives . Have a great trip !!

One other point ; I was reflecting on what Tom said and I couldn't agree with him more . I would only add this to my previous remarks ; Paris is a GREAT walking city ( even better than NYC ) and if the weather is unsettled a little more protection might help . But even with the shoes I have reccommended , Tom is absolutely right ! If you land in a puddle you'll get wet . The advantage to a waterproof shoe is that in a light but steady rain the shoe will shed water more readily . In any event I'm sure that walking or " Flaneur " a Paris will be the most wonderful time you will have in this beautiful place !!!

Thanks for the great ideas and feedback. We've traveled to both Ireland and France and have always debated about the investment of these types of shoes. We walk a lot rain or shine. Maybe we will bring some Texas dry weather with us this trip!