Women's semi-stylish, comfortable shoes?

I feel your style pain! Dansko makes a bulbous toed maryjane that is "ok", not quite as ugley as my "nun" shoes. David Tate makes a comfy sandal with ankle straps and very padded footbed. So far it has lasted a mile on the treadmill with no problems. Good luck.

I just bought some black Skechers that look like mary janes. They are quite nice looking and comfortable.

You need to find a store with lots of good choices and try on the shoes. There's no one brand that is right for everyone. Or look at zappos.com for a zillion ideas. I've had luck with Merrell, Ecco, Naot, Geox, Clarks, Softspot. Other people like but I don't Mephisto, Joseph Siebel, etc.

I second the Skechers suggestion: I now own five (5) pairs of Skechers: three black, one white, and one cream colored. The black ones, Biker Step-ups, are the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned; a mary jane style with a V-shape strap that keeps them from slipping at the heel. Not "sport shoe" looking, not ghastly at all, and I intend to walk all over Paris in them.

Naot sandals are good. I have a pair that actually look pretty decent with a dress/skirt, and are extremely comfortable. Also have some Mary-Jane style pink shoes by Pratik. I was going for a long walk with a friend when I was wearing them and he said, "You're not going to wear THOSE?" because they are essentially sneakers in disguise. Very cute. Also Tsubo is another brand - they're sort of sneaker-ish but much less clunky, more streamlined, and less embarrassing.

GEOX have some very fashionable styles quite like the far more expensive Tod's.

This was my 5th trip to London wearing Clarks and they're the most comfortable shoe I own. I wore tennis shoes the last trip and my feet were killing me.
Work just fine on the cobblestones. Even walked around Venice in them.

hi, clarin,

I always had the same problem with footware [hence the stories in our household about "Roman Foot"] until just before I went to Venice, determined to avoid the same problems, I went down to my local shoe shop [the slightly more up market of the two in our town] and spent AGES trying them all on. poor assistant!

I ended up with two pairs - one pair of what we in the UK call "trainers" - with a very ribbed sole, for more serious walking including in the country, and a smarter pair of eccos, still flat, but with bit more style.

I haven't looked back.

IMO there is no substitute for trying them on, rather than mail order.

regards, ann

Ordered from Zappos.com, a pair of Keen's "Barcelona" mary-janes for the trip (we're down to 6 days til d-day!) Absolutely perfect! NO break-in time, perfect width, sizing, goes with everything, and feels like slippers with arches and support. Can't wait to march through Belgium and wherever with my cute new shoes. And the DH of course!

P.S. I forgot to say that Zappos is the king/queen of customer service. Shoes arrived (w/free shipping) less than 24 hours after ordered (and I live in Ohio, for God's sake!) They guarantee quick service on shipping and if not satisfied for any reason immediately you email thema and they ship replacements before you even return the originals. And no, I don't work for or have any association w/Z's.

I just bought the Air Beau Mary Jane from Cole Haan for my Italy trip. They have Nike Air support in the heel and the sole but look like cute shoes. I've been walking all over my house and they feel like slippers!

http://www.colehaan.com

hi, vanw,

i always forget how far we are behind you in the mail-order dept. these look really good - rather like the ones I had to go down to my local shop to get! [soory, that sounds a bit mean - didn't mean it to!]

have great trip!

regards, ann

Here is the direct link for vanw's:
http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/23122560/c/3.html

vanw, does the strap across attach with velco? thanks.

I used to like Sketchers - until I've discovered Cole Haan's Air Nike series.

I bought my first pair of Cole Haan Air Nike lace-ups in summer of 2005. Now I own 6 pairs.

They're super light and super comfy (esp the suede ones - not too crazy about the nylon ones). Sole is a bit thin but is fine as long as you're not walking on rocky beaches.

Question? Local style or walking comfort? I see Polish ladies tripping along on 3 and 4 inch heel shoes and a few in low heel models. Many European sidewalks and roads and trails are not flat! No one is going to be concerned with your choice of shoes but yourself. I was a 'shoe dog' one year. Every woman I dealt with tried to get into shoes that were too small for her! Perhaps you need to try hiking class boots! They are designed for your kind of treking.

No offense taken, Ann...thanks for your kind wishes.

Tiff, no velcro involved. There's a bit of elastic for give and flex but the tension is perfect. I got basic black for flexibility but plan to add some of the fun funky colors in the future.

Clarin, I am so glad you asked this question! (I know there have been other threads...) However, I have been looking for the same thing...last week I ordered a pair from www.footsmart.com (suggested on here). I haven't gotten them yet but I feel like I may not love them...some of these suggestions sound much cuter!

Love the look and feel of my Tsubo and wear them around on the weekends, but they have ZERO padding or arch support. They work for doing errands but would never stand up to walking around a city all day long.

Another fan of Keens!

Suze--I have been looking at those Tsubos and wondered, so thanks for the heads up.

I really wish there was a section on the forum called "travel attire" or something, where all these threads could be very useful.

ED???

Just returned from one month in Rome, Trastevere section. My best shoe coice?--Mephisto Round About. Does the work of an athletic shoe, but also has a Mary Jane-type dressier look with velcro strap across top and also around the back of the heel for snug excellent fit. Also, for Mephisto, very reasonably priced--around $130. My back-up shoes for extra comfort were my old trusty Merrells with the mesh top, but since they are a slip-on clog type, I felt a little less secure with them on the cobblestones. It really is best to have your heel secured and not slipping around on the back of your shoe.

To Fodorite friends: Trip report will begin soon, I promise.

Timberland has some cute and very comfortable styles. One that I have is the Pacific Grove mary jane style, with criss cross velcro straps. They have a removable footbed and can even accommodate an orthotic.

Here's another vote for Mephistos. I have two pairs that I've worn on my last three trips to Italy and I'll be bringing them on my upcoming trip to Paris. I also have a pair of the Cole Hahn's with the Nike Air support, which I'm considering taking.

Another vote for Keens. I bought the Sydney II (a very simple MaryJane) for travel in October, and I'm still wearing them very happily!

I'm going through this now with our upcoming trip. One suggestion I have is that if there's a Nordstrom near you--go there. Not only do they have almost every brand mentioned here plus some, they GUARANTEE their shoes! In other words--you can bring them back anytime if you're not happy.

Now, my problem is a I bought a pair of Merrill flat boots that I LOVE and are quite comfortable and look great with everything I plan to take (including 2 shirts), HOWEVER when I walked in them for hours in SF, I ended up with very sore feet. As much as I want to take them (and maybe switch off with my very comfortable Eccos or (gasp) silver Nikes (last time in Italy and Spain so many of the women were wearing tennis shoes I actually bought a pair of pink suede ones in Siena), I don't know that I can justify the luggage space! I guess I'll wait 'til I'm fully packed to decide, but really COMFORT is a big issue and you really need to know that you're not going to be miserable because you put "fashion" first. Believe me, I know from past experience!

artlover, being a very light packer who likes to be as unencumbered as possible while travelling, I would never take a pair of shoes on a trip just because I like the way they look on my feet at home! Seriously...'tain't worth it, imo.

I, too, love Zappos, but I've found them rather chintzy on sales lately.

I found the same pair of Clark's Artisan shoes that I was eyeballing on the web for half-price at my local Macy's department store. WOW!

I vote for Clark's too -- I am just not one for the obvious "I am a tourist; look at my clunky shoes." (I have big feet anyway!) The ones I picked out look like something I would wear anywhere, including vacation.

All one can conclude from this is that we are all different! I have Ecco's that have left me hobbling in pain after a few hours; Clarks that I couldn't wait to rip off my feet after a short walk across town, and similar stories about many other brands mentioned here. The only ones that are reliable for me are Mephisto and Dansko (the Bay Bridge sandals, NOT the clogs). These two I can safely buy on-line (at a discount, from Sierra Trading Post). I have several pairs of each that I know I can walk comfortably all day in.

Everything else, I try to buy at Nordstrom, like Artlover. And I wear them in the store for 30 minutes or so before buying them. And even then, I've had shoes that I thought were fine in the store turn uncomfortable after a few hours on pavement.

So for Europe I only take shoes that have passed the test. And I pack very light with everything else so I can take at least three pair in summer: one each of Dansko and Mephisto sandals, and the hiking boots I need for the mountains. In winter or early spring when it is cold, I don't need the hiking boots, but take flat ankle boots made by Ariat. They have a carbon-fiber shank and gel midsole, and are great for walking.

How do you ladies when packing light, solve the problem of casual day walking shoes and then possibly in the evening something dressier with which you might wear with a skirt or dress, and yet still be comfortable enough to do some walking in ...?

I have been reading all these posts on comfortable shoes but cannot possibly pay the (IMO) the high prices for some of these brands. Does anyone know of a shoe that is under $60 that are comfortable? I am a flip flop Floridian and the thought of enclosing my toes in some of these shoes is frightening! I desperately need comfort and style for our May trip to France. Any ideas?

Should the question be? I weigh X pounds, what shoe will be comfortable for uneven European paths?

normal--You can get quite a few of these nicer brands for less at places such as DSW stores or online at Sierra Trading Post.

Another vote for Mephisto ALLROUNDERS !
They come in about 20 colors.

RE packing light, I take 2 pairs: one comfort walking sandal and one dressier but also comfortable sandal (a Dankso maryjane if the nights are cool).
I'm wearing one pair, so I still have no problem just taking a carry-on.
I'm partial to Clarks (Artisan and Privo lines) and a recent convert to Keen. Easy Spirit sometimes makes something cute enough and are cheaper.

RE cost, that old adage you get what you pay for is true when it comes to shoes. I have 5 pairs of Danskos because they last forever and are comfortable. Everytime I buy cheap shoes they end up in a thrift store or landfill anyway.

We are all different!! I wear heels all day here, I wear heels all day there. There is a happy medium between form and function, although I probably lean a bit toward the former (ha). I live in a city and hate to drive, so I walk a couple miles a day in my heels. In fact, the only flats I own are flip-flops and running shoes and I don't have a single pair of pants or jeans short enough to be worn with flats. I considered tailoring some jeans so I could wear ballet flats, but after being 5'8" for so long, I don't like losing the 3 inches I do always keep a pair of flip-flops in my bag in case one a shoe turns out to be a bad egg (or to spare a pair from weather), but I ran a mile (in good time) in a pair of beat-up sky high heels to prove to my husband that it could be done. For me, any shoe that truly fits is comfortable regardless of heel height.

i feel your pain ladies, literally. or i did. i started searching for comfortable yet stylish shoes for my upcoming trip to paris (in april) last october. after hours and hours of shopping i have since bought and returned 1 pair of eccos, and 3 pair of aerosoles. i also bought a pair of primos (clark's) that i'm stuck with now even though they kill my feet because i wore them outside the house. i then gave up for 3 months. this past saturday i finally purchased a pair of josef seibels. open back with about an inch heel with lovely padding in the insole. so far after a couple of days i'm pain free. in case you have feet like mine, what i needed was a pair of shoes with no seam that hit my bunions (from years of ballet), the seam is up the middle, wide enough in the front, a one inch heel, soft leather and padding in the insole to cushion my feet. they are open in the back but not clogs per se, but i don't think that will be a problem. perhaps i'll go test them in the french quarter tomorrow.

here's hoping they work for me in paris. there's nothing worse than aching feet when you want to go, go, go!

i don't know if this helped anyone, but it sure felt good to share my story. and to know that i'm not the only person out there for whom the "perfect" shoe search was such a frustrating mission!

bonne chance!

Next time you are in France, check out Arche shoes. They are very comfortable and quite stylish. (Although not cheap -- generally 130 euros and up -- but I think for most of us aching-foot sufferers it is worth it!) They're sold all over France including 8 or 10 Arche stores in the Paris area. Though it's mainly in France, there also are some outlets elsewhere in Europe and a few in New York.

Dansko "Lolita" is back! Google it for a picture, or go to Nordstrom.com.

Think strappy sandal meets comfort sole.

The shoe salesman at Nordies told me it is one of their all-time best sellers, but was unavailable in black for awhile. Now it's back, and even better---the black has a dark-colored footbed, which won't show the dirt. But I kinda like the dark brown too. . .

Normal,
The sketchers I mentioned were purchased at DSW for under $60, but I noticed they can also be ordered from the Zappos website. I can't speak for the other brands, but they seemed a little expensive to me also. I bought two pairs, one a mary jane style in black and one more of a tennis shoe but not as bulky.

If you look at the Zappos website, the mj's I bought are a black version of the Luxe...couldn't find the exact version. They also have a similar version called biker-sightsee.

You can find Arche lots of places besides France. Here is Seattle, on Zappos.com, etc. I have not have good luck with that brand myself. They were pretty expensive and did not hold up well at all.

I just bought a pair of these for an upcoming trip; they look a lot better in person and the bottoms feel like sponge they are so comfy. I have not walked for hours in them, yet.

http://www.harrys-shoes.com/shop/prd_mnrChase_womens_chase_slip-on.htm

The salesman also recommended a label named Paul Green which he says are as comfortable as Mephisto.

These are also very comfy; I got them for spring/summer:

http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/18137205/c/72.html

The Dansko Gabrielle shoes look pretty nice. Has anyone tried them for long periods of time or on cobblestones?

Well, I know Fodorites shun sneakers, but I find that it's often hard to beat a good sneaker for comfort. You can let the laces loose if your feet get swollen, plus they tend to support your foot arch better than anything else. Shoes with comfortable but thinner soles won't do it when you're walking quite a bit in pavement, rocks and cobblestones. Now, for the stylish part, not all tennis shoes are 80's style white Reeboks! I've owned many pairs of Pumas and they are quite trendy. If you're more "mature" and a trendy Puma won't cut it, there are plenty of semi-athletic shoes in non-white colors that look fairly presentable. And, you'll be comfortable, which is key when travelling!

Okay so I wasn't going to ask this but since a similar thread has resurfaced....

Based on the overwhelming support of Memphistos, I bought a pair of the All Rounders. I do agree they are comfy,

HOWEVER, what sock do you wear with these? I bought the half socks (that just go around the tip of the toe and the heel) but they inevitably get "eaten" in my shoe...

Is it ok to see my white socks peek out? I'm thinking that is a nono

yes yes, it is a no no.

maybe black socks wouldn't be so bad?

or tights?

and I just can't see anklets with sandals, I wish I could but I can't.

Holy smokes - what a fabulous collection of suggestions! I thank all of you for your knowledge, experience and time! I am now off, with list in-hand, to see if I can locate anything that has been suggested here. Failing that, I'll go w/Zappo's or Nordies electronically. Keep those ideas comin'. Can't tell you how much I appreciate it.

Ekscrunchy, Paul Green also has some styles that aren't as ugly as the usual suspects -- so far this line is my favorite.

I found that aerosoles generally work well for me if I want to stay under $60 -- their 3 inch slides and ballet/mary jane flats were comfortable enough this past summer in Istanbul and Spain.

However, I did take more cabs in those locations (traveling with friends) than I do in Paris, London, or Italian cities (where I never take cabs but use public transport exclusively).

Severl thoughts on the shoe issue.

How to test your shoes with out wearing them outside? Here is my method: Get on a treadmill, use the manual program and go up and down hills for an hour, varying your pace from a "mosey" to a "run for the Métro". Shoes don't step on the ground and you will notice any hotspots after 20 mintues. The hour gets you to the "ache" factor. Many shoes fail in the first 20 mintues.

To GSteed: It really isn't a matter of weight of the wearer for the shoe comfort. Many of us have difficult -to -fit feet. I, myself, have small feet for my height, but double wide toes (I really don't need to use swim fins!) and a narrower heel (duck feet) and I am on the thin side. And most of us would love to always find shoes that can tromp all over town and still look good, whether we are in our home towns or in Europe or whever.

Lastly - looking good and feeling good go hand in hand (or should I say hand in foot?) If your feet hurt, it shows on your face. If your shoes are godawful ugly, it shows in your body via your presentation to the world. "All" we are looking for is a shoe that feels good AND looks good. The word "comfort" should not immediately exclude the word "style" as it has for so long. End of diatribe.

The Dansko Gabrielle appears to have a softer sole than other Danskos--but try it inside first! With cobblestones, you generally want a soft, thick, cushy sole--but if the shoe is comfortable in general, it should be okay.

If you want one more suggestion - Munro "Capri" from Nordstrom's. I just returned from 3 weeks in China where I wore them almost every day and they were wonderful. They climbed the Great Wall and walked a million miles! I bought them in black, and the style went with jeans, slacks or cords - plus they looked sharp.

Good point about the Gabrielle. The munro capri would be good with long pants. It shouldn't be so hard to find a stylish comfortable warm weather shoe that is good for long walks and cobblestones, but it is!

re: socks with ALLROUNDS. I wear the type of socks that you mentioned but the kind that is a bit higher on the arch. You have to try different brands ( some are cotton mix, spme are "deeper") to find the right one.
This is when I am wearing a skirt; with pants, you can wear any kind of socks you wish.

I too have the Munro Capris and they are heaven! Actually, I have a ton of Munros as they fit me very well. Our last trip to Europe I took one pair and wore them for 3 weeks, no problem. This time though, we are going in summer, so that is harder as I get picky with summer shoes, lol!

Ah mms, arent we all! But check out the Dansko "Lolita" I mentioned above. Mine have been to Europe three times, walking all over Florence, Munich, and many Swiss sidewalks. They are dressy enough to go to dinner, but comfortable and supportive enough for all-day walking.

I know some people don't like to wear sandals in the city (because of "dirt"), but these have a thick enough wedge sole that my foot is well of the ground and out of the dirt.

enzian--This is pretty ironic. I just checked those Lolitas and they are very similar to a pair of Munros that I have, which I love and have been wondering about taking with me. I think you just gave me the reinforcement I needed to take them! They are so comfy, and look good...so the best of both worlds. Oh, and I already have them so don't need to shell out more money, lol!

Fishee...I will look into the Paul Greens. I liked these in the store..truly a lot less ugly than many Mephistos, but pricey:

http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7248406.html


http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7265289.html

Here is a link to a pair that I bought for our upcoming trip. They are just as comfy as my keens, but not bulky looking at all...a very slim look to them. I got mine in black, but the red are pretty darn cute I think!

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,77789_ELLE-MONZA-MARY-JANE-SHOES-For-Women.html

I don't wear sneakers and I find that sometimes Andre Assous makes comfortable shoes that look kind of stylish.

Anyone wear good ole' Birkenstocks? I was thinking of just getting a pair this time but not sure how they are on cobblestones.

SeaUrchin, Check out Naot sandals... they're the "new birkenstock" -lol! and not nearly as ugly. ~Suze

In spring and fall, I've walked miles in an old pair of Series-G (Cole Haan/Nike) maryjanes and these DKNYs:
http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7282242/c/231.html
For winter, La Canadienne boots are warm and waterproof.

LucieV, I think you're right..."these boots ain't made for walking..." (at least not in Europe) and they need to stay home.

ekscunchy,
I agree--Paul Greens are incredibly comfortable--infact, they are made for walking, plus they look good too, so they make the cut. They are pricey, but I picked mine up at Nordstrom Rack, so they were a good buy too. However, mine look great with pants, but not the skirts, so I'm still up in the air there. Lots of good suggestions here though, as usual.

P.S. SeaUrchin,
DD wears Birkenstocks and loves them...but she's 23, so...

I just bought Munro "Jolie" in black suede and wore them in NYC for four days. They will be what I take to France in the Fall as well. My requirements include wide widths and a removable insole so I can switch out with my orthotic inserts. They kind of look like dressed up sneakers to me.

As for Birks, I wear Gizehs almost every day of the year. I took them to France a few years ago in the summer and the only thing I wish is that I didn't have that thong between my toes for two weeks. Otherwise they were completely comfortable. I have black patent ones that I use for "dressy."

Ha, since I am 23X? I get the point. I do like the Naots, thanks. I think they are the ones that I want, oo oo oo.

High high heels & dancing have wreched my tooties. They swell when I travel almost a size!

But I still prefer a bit of a heel instead of a flat even for travel
more comfort, & won't need to have pants with all those different lengths.

I found the softer soles & heels are trick for me for me walking but it's been hard to find a higher heel in the man made soft stuff...

so I found "Faux stack heels"
1.Softspots "Missy" has a 1 3/4 heel
looks like a loafer with a higher heel. "Stacked look heel" is really that polyurthane or similar. Shock absorbing looks ok if you are that certain age.

Got them at www.shoetrader.com (all widths incliding Extra wide!)

2. Dansko Raphael also has the same substance for the heel and higherr too than most ....shock absorbing. More $$ $145. Looks good w/ pants only like a short boot.

I agree need the forum for the travel wear & tips...

Thanks all

I am going to the Clark's store tomorrow. I really hope to find a comfortable ankle boot with at least a one inch heel. I leave for Paris next week. I will travel to Spain and Italy. I will report my results upon my return. I am going to post my own question regarding this. I need recommendations as well.

I've had good luck with Clark's and if you are in the UK you can find lots of styles that are unavailable here. I buy a pair there every summer and there's no break-in period. Just buy 'em and go.

Sea Urchin, the main problem with Birkenstocks is your feet will be dirty in no time in the city and while walking on pea gravel paths in gardens & parks, you will find the birkies tend to toss the gravel right into the footbed of the sandal. I think I still have pea gravel imbedded in my instep from a trip in '94.

No one has mentioned the dreaded "museum legs". Some of the recommended shoes are great for walking but are not great for standing. I'm a docent at a museum and the general consensus among my peers is that a low shoe with good ankle support and cushioning is best for preventing leg fatigue and pain. I love my 3 pairs of Skechers, but there's not enough padding for standing. My Cole Haan/Air Nike slip ons stay at home too. They are nice and cushiony for brisk walking, but cause feet-puff (my word) when standing for any length of time.

I visit Zappos at all hours searching for the perfect blend of comfort and style. I have yet to find something that looks genuinely pretty with a summery dress or skirt. The search goes on.

Amy40

I am thinking about buying the Munro Jolie too. They are available in 4A and it is really hard to find a decent looking narrow shoe. I'm getting them in taupe color and hoping they will look okay with capris.

I recently purchased the Teva Noosa and it is my favorite shoe ever. I love the look of them, too. Purchased through Sierra Trading Post at http://tinyurl.com/2tnvey for $49.95. As a bonus, the inner sole pulls out and converts to a sandal. It's really only for indoor use, but it is a neat feature. These are probably technically walking shoes, but I think they are very stylish - not anything like the typical walking shoe. Also, these shoes are probably not right for narrow-footed people. I generally buy wide-sized shoes and was concerned about purchasing these, but they have a very roomy toe box and fit me perfectly...but probably wouldn't the narrow-footed individual. I plan on this being the only pair of shoes I take with me on my trip. They are actually more comfortable than my running shoes.

SeaUrchin- at the Naot website. The two pair I had a love affair with last summer and thru winter beach trips...
"jessica" in copper and "ashley" in black.

Amy40, thanks for the tip on the Munros. I think I'll give them a try. I need wide shoes to accommodate an orthotic as well, and they're not all that easy to find. These are pretty cute.

Just back from purchasing the Keen Portolas at REI. Needed something comfy for on the plane and for our days around Normandy. These are sooooo comfy!

For those of you that are looking at buying Clarks, I suggest you check Marshalls. This weekend I bought a pair for $34.99 that are normally $60.00. They were actually pretty cute (the toe was not large and round) and I am VERY picky. (To be fair, I returned them because I did not find them all that comfortable but apparently they work for some feet!)

I am on a hunt for black Skechers now!

Clarin,
Not sure I'd call them even "semi" stylish, but I don't think they're ugly. I swear by my SAS, but I'm 60 and more interested in comfort than style I have ECCO -- comfortable, but not good for the miles of walking we do in Paris -- and Mephisto. The SAS are the most comfortable on my feet.

Sandy

Having just returned, I can tell you every woman in europe had jeans tucked into boots.

I took my Uggs, no arch support, because it was freezing last week and I was going to Alps to snowboard, but what I wish I had room for were my 9-West Herricks, available on zappos.com. These boots look high, but they are a rubber wedge heel and like walking on a pillow. I highly recommend you try a pair. Free returns on Zappos for 365 days, so pretty risk free.

They are stylish and comfy. I had pair of sketcher sneakers too, but only wore those twice as it was quite cold!

It was rainy and cold last year in February and I was so glad I brought my 20 year old UGGS who are so warm, confortable and not as bulky as the ones they make now. Several French women asked were I bought them. I also wore my French Sole Ballerina flats and those I have been wearing for several years and are now so stylish. I love the Repettos, popular here and in Pars but not as much support and not so attractive in larger sizes.

I just came back from the mall and bought a pair of wedge (about an inch, maybe 1.5 inches heel) sandals made by Cole Haan. They have a Nike Air cushion. I have a pair also from Cole Haan with the same cushion but are flat mary jane style, and they ARE comfortable. I also swear by Merrells who came out with these nice Mary Jane looking shoes (which I also have). I wear them with jeans, and skirts. The Cole Haan (and even Merrell) can be expensive (since I've become a stay-at-home mom dropping so much money on shoes makes me flinch) but I think its a wise use of money. I figure we're spending X amount of money on a vacation, and I don't want to be miserable. Second, bad shoes can translate to bad back (I know, I've been to physical therapy). So I try to get the best shoes I can for my money. Good luck!

Besides the Keens (Barcelona - mary jane style) that I ADORE and raved about earlier, now that spring is coming I wanted to also mention Chacos sandals. Incredibly comfortable, mold to your feet, perfect for miles of walking on any surface.

Anybody going to Germany, Austria, Belgium, etc. can wear their comfortable shoes and blend right in...the majority of women in those countries have a sensible attitude toward shoes and you won't see as many tripping around in high strappy heels (except for fancy occasions) as you might in the style centers of Italy.
German/Scandinavian brands work well...Rieker and ARA for example.

Stuart Weitzman also makes some stylish low heeled shoes and slides. I bought a couple of pair in London and they do well overall, although I probably wouldn't want to wear them all day every day on a trip that involved a LOT of walking on cobblestone streets.

Geoxx is also popular, but try them on to see how you feel about that "bump" in the middle. A friend really wanted a pair of Geoxx until she actually tried them on and found she just couldn't get comfortable with them.

I also vote for Mephisto All-Rounders. They are less than half the price of the Mephisto "Rush" style (which is not attractive but a great walking shoe).

Alright...I did it...I finally got my "walking" shoes. As a few people suggested, I tried on the Skecher Step-
Up and I love them! So, I bought those along with a pair of Aerosoles that lace up and are surprisingly pretty cute (with pants you can only see the toe). I am going to throw in a pair of cute black flats for dinner/dress-up and I am down to three pairs (including the pair I wear on the plane)!

FYI: I tried on a pair of Soft Walks that had the most amazing cushioning inside...seriously like walking on pillows! They didn't quite fit me right, but I suggest you give them a try! (They were not the most stylish shoe I have ever seen but for that insole, I would have sacrificed!)

P.S. I found both pairs at DSW and even though the Skechers were not on sale, they were still five or six dollars cheaper than normal. Definitely worth it if you have a DSW near you!

ding ding ding! we have a winner here.
I looked up Rieker shoes and they are cute! and look comfortable! Thanks!

re. Birkenstocks,
They make shoes too: their Footsteps line, which have a birky-type cork sole and come in 2 widths, narrow-about a B, and regular about a C. You have to break them in, but then you can walk all day.

Just returned from Amsterdam and Paris with the TN Trio of Terror. The cobblestones are a killer in Amsterdam. Took two paris of SAS (yes the old nurse shoes) one in red leather and one in black nubuck (tied oxford style) and did fine interchanging their footbed with my orthotics. Also took a pair of Birkenstock clogs that I used in Rome two years ago and once again, I was glad I had them. Just kind of changed up among all three pairs. My feet still hurt after Amy's forced marches but they were always recovered by the next day.

vanw - took your advice (and that of a few others) and bought a pair of the Keens Barcelonas through Zappos - I LOVE them! They're totally adorable, yet feel like my running shoes.

Zappos needs to pay this thread a commission!

OK, all you people out there - my problem is a "Neuroma", which I had operated on, but still can't ware shoes. All I seem able to ware is New Balance sneaker & even they hurt sometimes. Need a walking & dress shoe plus I have a wide foot. Any ideas?

schatzie, what about a sandal? I've had operations on my feet as well and sandals seemed to be the best shoe to wear.

A vote from me for Softwalks. I bought a pair of Softwalk mary janes last year before our trip to Amsterdam and Germany and they're great! They go well with pants and skirts and have the eggshell cushioning which makes them very comfortable.

I have large feet for a woman (size 12), so even if I wanted to try Mephisto or Ecco, I can't find any. It's a shame because they seem to be really comfortable.

shatzie8:
I've got neroma woes myself - had the
op. last year and really, all it did
was alter the symptoms!

Anyhoozy, found Aravon sandals "Lena"
style. Made by New Balance but really
cute (even daughters noted the improvement in my footware!).

Not cheap (at least here in Canada)
but I have been loathe to take them
off my deformed footsies - and my
Merrills, Naots, Eccos, Wolkys,
Geox....on and on and on are all
relegated to 'back of the closet'
status.........

schatzie8, with a neuroma you may need an orthotic. Or try those "donut" shaped pads for your forefoot, the kind that support your foot around the neuroma without putting pressure on it.

Dress shoes will be hard because the incline of a high heel puts even more pressure on the tender area. Ouch.

You might look at the Cole Haan shoes that have Nike Air technology built in. Pricy, but effective.

thanks so much, llamalady - some of the aravon styles are pretty cute, and they have removable footbeds. May even work with my orthotic!!

The munros have been pretty good for an oxford-type shoe.

I highly recommend Camper Shoes. The styles are really cute (both flat and higher heel styles are available) but more importantly, they are extremely comfortable. Camper Shoes are available on Zappos as well. I've walked in my Campers for hours and hours and hours all over Europe without a bit of pain or suffering. The shoes are a bit pricey BUT they are comfortable and will last you for years.

I did 3 weeks walking in Italy wearing Privo Opanka Clogs (Made by Clarks). They were amazingly comfortable and I even was able to hike in them! They were also stylish enough, due to the 2.25" heal, to wear to dinner, etc.

http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/16232625/c/3.html

http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7236880/c/6209.html

I just bought these Skecher "Biker Sightsee" MaryJanes for a trip to Italy in July, and they offer good support but are extremely comfortable! I live in flip-flops all summer but wanted something more substantial for lots of city walking. These have mesh which I hope will be a bit cooler than traditional MJs.

Zappo's has them for $59, but I got mine at DSW for $49

I just got those same Skechers (the Sightsee) for my upcoming trip! I think they are very comfy & cute. I get very hot feet but they've been fine when I've worn them to work all day. I'm a teacher so I'm up and running around all day - looks like they will do well traveling.

Well carolinabelle, you will look fashionable! I also work in a school; wearing my new Skechers from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and still feeling good was a true test of how they will work in Italy. Where are you going?

I absolutely love these Skechers too! Last year I bought a pair of these and a pair of shoes from the Walking Store. The shoes I paid a ton of money for at the Walking Store I only wore for 1 day and that was it. They just didn't cut it. So I put on the Skechers I bought and low and behold I wore them 12 - 14 hours in London walking and taking the stairs everywhere and they were fabulous. So much so that when I go to Paris in a few weeks I bought an updated pair in two different colors. Then found two newer ones that don't have the velcro across the top, but slip on. So now I am not sure which ones out of the 4 I am going to bring - definitely two pairs tho. Ah, such a dilemma LOL.

http://www.shoebuy.com/skechers-bikers-flirt/182474/410532

Carolinabelle Suzeeq57 and Keepmoving I am leaving in two weeks to spain and france and I bought 6 sckechers okay I will only take 3 pair but the others are for work. I am a Pediatrician and I am on my feet all day. I bought the ones that are http://www.skechers.com/catalog/browse.do?function=displayProductList&gender=W&catId=5&index=0&viewAll=false&sort=popular&prodId=8259&styleCode=21479http://www.skechers.com/catalog/browse.do?function=displayProductList&gender=W&catId=2&index=0&viewAll=true&sort=popular&prodId=20658

My question is if you use the maryjane types with socks.?? I saw the ones with mesh and I suppose you don't use socks but what about the other ones? My feet sweat alot in closed shoes without socks so I prefer the sneakerhttp://www.skechers.com/catalog/browse.do? The callies are made of rubber and super comfortable. But I don't think they are appropriate for Europe function=displayProductList&gender=W&catId=5&index=0&viewAll=false&sort=popular&prodId=8259&styleCode=21479
I bought 3 pairs of the sneaker type that slip on and don't have laces, but I plan to wear socks since I am a pants person. Except maybe at night I will wear some sandals I bought at nauralizer. This is a computer question how do I copy the link to the shoes so all you have to do is click on the site? I am very new to writing on these forums. thanks

When traveling, I never wear sneakers (so I don't call attention to myself) and I only wear mules (slip-on shoes) to avoid blisters on my heels and to make it easy to casually slip them off when I sit down for breaks during the day.

In the summer, I usually wear skirts and capris, so I bring:

1 pair of black-leather closed toe mules (Clarks)
1 pair of cushioned flip flops (like Born)
1 pair of low-heeled black-leather dressy shoe.

I wear the closed-toe shoe on the plane, so the other 2 pairs fit tightly in my suitcase.

And don't bring many shoes, so you haave room to bring some home!

timetraveler -

I would definitely wear socks with those sneaker type Skechers. Very cute by the way. My friend that is accompanying me on the trip got shoes like that, but not Skechers and I am sure she paid a lot more.

I've walked around in the other Skechers without socks with no problem.

If you have a problem with your feet sweating get socks made of Coolmax. I have run in these socks for years and they are great. Cotton socks should be outlawed!
http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/WWU102/

Sorry, but I do not believe wearing sneakers "calls attention to myself".

Suze, I generally live in Europe for stretches of 1-4 months at a time every year and it has been my experience that Europeans in my age group (30s-40s) don't wear sneakers outside of the gym (or fleece, shorts and clothing with printed text). They do wear those stylish sport shoes like the sort Diesel puts out, but by "sneaker," I meant the kind you typically find in the athletic section of a shoe store. There are many Europeans who wear athletic sneakers when walking around, of course, and I don't mean to suggest that "standing out" as a tourist is a bad thing anyway. Comfort is key to enjoying anything you do. I just prefer to steer toward comfortable non-sneaker, black leather shoes like a cute pair of Clarks, and for men I recommend I recommend Rockports and Eccos.

Hi ladies - I wanted to post a follow-up to my post about buying the Keens as suggested by many of you. I just spent 2 weeks hiking up and down subway stairs, streets and hills in Japan and my Keens were AMAZING! My feet never hurt, even though I did more walking this time than on any trip before. Best of all, they kept their shape, never got dirty, and managed to keep my feet dry in a total deluge. I'm buying pairs for my entire family... these shoes are magic!

cshellen
which KEENS did you get?

I just got a pair of Mephisto Helens... my mom had a pair many years ago and loved them, and I love my new ones. They come in a variety of colors (mine are a distressed gold), and after an initial break-in are absolutely comfortable and look pretty good on the foot too! I will be taking them to Egypt/Turkey in a few days so we'll see how they fare over there!

For a sandal, also try the Merrell Gardena (last year 3 weeks in Greece/Italy I wore these). Very comfy, but they pretty much wore out from use!

My mom swears by the Munro thong sandal.

Oops - sorry Timetraveler - I wasn't checking my email!

I brought the Sydney IIs with me (http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/15370442/c/3.html). They're so comfortable and sort of asian in style (they're actually cuter on than they are in the picture... I usually prefer heels, but these made my legs look surprisingly good). When I came back, a very style-conscious friend of mine actually said, "Ooh - those are cute!" yet they're more comfortable than my running shoes.

I also bought the Barcelonas (http://www.zappos.com/n/p/dp/23122557/c/21095.html) which I'm going to try out in Europe this summer. They're not waterproof, but they feel just as comfortable.

Seriously - during my last trip to Europe, I was almost crying my feet hurt so much, and I was wearing tennis shoes! But those Keens are magic. I'm a total Keen convert.

Just before this trip I bought a pair from the Privo line (Clarks). Just about the most comfortable walking shoe I've ever tried - especially right out of the box. I took a pair of Born sandals last year which were OK for about 4 days then gave me hellish blisters for the rest of the trip. A lot of support and cushioning - but big blisters.

These Privo shoes, on the other hand, were grand. No problems whatsoever. I did pack my Borns (never wore them once) and a pair of Ferragamo loafers which only came out for dinner (a little too stiff for all day walking).

I agree with the Privo suggestion! I just returned from a two-week trip to London and Paris. I was the only one out of the family of four whose feet weren't killing by the end of the day. The famliy was ready to quit, and I could keep going. I bought them for my daughter as well (but she wore them without socks, which gave her blisters). Here are the ones I got from Zappos.
http://tinyurl.com/2mzptz

Just an FYI about shoes. I am sitting here in a pair of very comfortable Mephisto sandles that I got 2 years ago in Germany for E 115. I just saw them in a Mephisto store near Washington for $240.

Not sandals, but the most comfortable pair of shoes I've worn. They're Aerosoles, one is called Handsem, another is called Semi Circle. Love them both. And they're great for walking on cobblestones (the front of my building is cobblestone central, if I can walk and not teeter precariously and w/o pain, the shoes see action at work).

At the risk of sounding like na advertisement, I got mine on sale at the Aerosoles store, but you can find them also at zappos.com.