Guest Author - Janet Collins

“All God’s children need traveling shoes.” – Maya Angelou

In an article published in USA Today, the Adventure Travel Trade Association reported that adventure travel is the fastest growing segment of the leisure travel industry. In a separately published report, the National Tour Association agreed, adding that today's seniors want activity and interaction – no wonder so many are looking into the joys of walking vacations, or hoping off the tour bus to explore their destination cities on foot.

Over the years, I’ve learned that footwear can make or break a holiday. Whether you’re tramping across the Scottish highlands or trekking through the streets of Manhattan, bad shoes quickly translate into bad vacation memories. It really is hard to have a good time when all you can think about is your aching feet!

For my money, the best shoes work for more than one type of occasion, so take up little room in the suitcase. They are also as comfortable as a well-worn pair of slippers even after spending several hours and many more miles on the feet in a single day. While comfort is a prime consideration, it isn’t the only thing to think about when shopping for traveling shoes.

Experience shows that running shoes, while the ubiquitous footwear of North Americans, are less acceptable in other countries unless they are worn for their expressed purpose – i.e. running. No matter how trendy the style, sportswear doesn’t always get the nod in places of worship or other sights where clothing faux pas are seriously frowned upon (or worse). Just ask an acquaintance who, on a recent trip to Italy, endured much snickering and many gasps of disbelief when she insisted on sporting flip-flops and well-worn runners wherever she went.

Thankfully, footwear manufacturers are producing good-looking shoes that are as gentle on the feet as they are on the eyes. Several styles easily travel between casual and dressier functions, and are more acceptable in other cultures than running shoes or flip-flops.

In warmer climates, I could do worse than my Rockport “Maria” sandals. Contoured to support the arch of the foot, these beauties boast a rubber sole that tapers from the 1¼ -inch heel to just over ½ inch at the toe. That translates into plenty of cushion to help reduce leg and foot fatigue. The ankle strap gives added support, and elastic inserts in the instep and ankle strap allow the shoe to take on a more personalized fit while flexing enough to reduce the risk of blisters. Sporty enough to wear with pants (shorts, capris, slacks), they are fashionable enough to pair with a dress. I’ve even paired them with a cocktail dress for a formal dinner on a cruise ship!

Of course, sandals aren’t the best choice for all occasions or all locations. ECCO, Aerosoles, Merrell, and Birkenstock all make excellent walking shoes in a range of styles. My fave walking shoe is a waterproof number by Merrell (one of the “moc” styles, but I forget which one). Lighter than a hiking boot, easier to pack than galoshes, they’re a great substitute for my Nikes. If you opt for Birkenstocks, I strongly suggest that you go with a closed-toe shoe as it will be far more versatile than the sandal that became the symbol of the granola set.

No matter what type of shoe you purchase, buy quality. Man-made materials tend to overheat the feet and that can lead to blisters – not the best thing to have on a holiday. And be sure to break those new puppies in before you go away.

Another tip: Take more than one pair of shoes with you – wear one, pack the other. Not only will the extra pair extend your wardrobe options, but rotating between pairs will help reduce foot discomfort and fatigue. It’s also nice to have a back-up if one pair gets wet or the strap on a shoe breaks. If you chose wisely, two pairs will do, which will leave a bit of extra space for packing home more souvenirs.