I don't think anyone who knows me would be surprised to hear of me writing a blog post about shoes. I love shoes. A lot. I designed my entire wedding around a pair of shoes I once saw online. In case you're wondering - they were Christian Louboutin from a few seasons prior. After some old-fashioned internet sleuthing worthy of Nancy Drew I tracked them down - and then proceeded to make every decision about my wedding based on them. I think they were worth it! See below: 👇👇👇👇
Photo: Daniel Doke
Based on this knowledge it might not surprise you to hear that when I travel I always give a good deal of consideration to my footwear. Let's face it - the wrong shoe choice on vacation can actually make or break your day. With that being said - here are my top few shoe tips:
Buy in Advance
I don't typically recommend packing a lot of extras for a trip because for most trips, if you forget something, you'll most likely be able to find a suitable replacement wherever you are. Shoes are my exception to this rule, and here's why:
#1. Stores aren't keeping as many shoes in stock these days. Depending on where you shop a store may only have one or two of any given size per style. (The higher-end the store - the fewer shoes they will have in stock). This means you need to give yourself time to try on a shoe, order it, and then wait for it to come in.
#2. It might not fit. Some of us harder to fit than others - I am either a size 7.5 or an 8. I never know which I'll be - so I can't just order and assume they'll fit me. You may have a high arch, or a flat foot, or...well, you get the point. If the shoes come in, and you need a different size plan on waiting a week or so (more right now!) for turnaround time.
Take the Time to Break Them In!
We all love to buy new footwear, and we may want to save the fun of wearing our awesome new shoes for the first time. But blisters aren’t fun - you don't want to be hiking to a waterfall in Iceland, and be hobbling around due to blisters. Take all new shoes for a test drive!
Variety is Important!
You need to think of your destination - if you’re in Thailand, you’re going to need to take your shoes off in many spaces - temples for sure, but also possibly in museums and government building. You’ll be happy to be wearing shoes that slip on and off easily - your new lace-up boots might be awesome, but how much time do you want to spend taking your shoes on and off while everyone stands around waiting for you?
If you’re hiking Machu Picchu - don’t wear flip flops that day - but do bring a pair because you might want to wear those to the spa at your resort when you're relaxing at the end of the day. You get the idea here - think carefully about your destination and activities - and bring your options!
Bring Something Waterproof!
Shoes are one place where less is NOT more. You don't want to end up on your only planned day traipsing around a city in sneakers that are soaked through and making that gross squishy feeling (with accompanying sound) when you walk. Trust me. I've been there. See below for the time we didn't bring waterproof sneakers - and it was too cold for flip-flops, and rain boots were way too cumbersome for the amount of walking we were doing. Take a look at their shoes, and now imagine how those shoes must have felt (and frankly, smelled later in the hotel room).
Just pack the waterproof shoes or boots! You'll thank me for it later. The worst that happens is you're over-prepared - and there are no negative consequence for that! One waterproof sneaker I keep hearing about but haven't had the chance to try myself is by Vessi. From my research I've gleaned that they do hold up well, and they will keep your feet dry. Some claim that you don't have to break them in, but I have read reviews from people who needed to break them in (obviously I agree with that - see above). I've also read that the tread isn't enough for ice and snow. For me this is fine - they're sneakers and not boots. Overall reviews suggest that they'd be perfect for travel. These are on my to-buy list - so I'll be sure to update here once I have them.
Consider Adding Non-Slip Grips to Your Heels
Did you know that there are no-slip sticker grips you can put on the bottom of your shoes? They’re especially helpful for new high heels. You know, those shoes that you bought just for your honeymoon, friend’s wedding, or the fancy dinner you’ve been waiting for. Check in with your local cobbler, and see if they can hook you up. If you can’t find them - message me. I know a guy.
Thanks @bostonshoeguy for this one.
What Do I Bring on a Typical Trip?
Tieks for an easy slip-on slip off shoe, Rothy's for days where my shoes may get dirty (they're machine washable, but be sure you take out the insole before washing!)
Flip-flops, one pair of heels, a dependable sneaker, and something waterproof. If my vacation includes being a bit more adventurous I add hiking boots.
What do you bring with you? Comment below and let me know if you think I missed anything here!
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