I'm heading to Panama in a couple of weeks and have no idea what shoes to pack!
I have heard that in Panama it is well advised to wear skirts or slacks instead of shorts, despite the hot weather and serious humidity. I am trying to pack my backpack lightly: I will bring one pair of dress sandals (Panamanians like to dress up), one pair or hiking shoes BUT... what to bring for everyday walking? I have a lot of lower back pain simply walking around town for more than a couple hours, my legs and feet also swell, so I need something very supportive and breathable that I can wear with skirts or slacks.

Is this too tall an order? Suggestions?

I cant remember what shoes I brought to Panama, but that trip was pre-Keen amphibious shoe purchase (for a Belize trip), so probably the Ecco walking sandals I bring everywhere, and flip flops. Ecco doesnt make these style sandals anymore (I ordered my 4th pair of them thru eBay), but if you can find any Ecco sandal it will be comfortable, and presentable enough for dinner. My Keens are also very comfortable, but ugly - I wont wear them at night in cities - but they are perfect for day touring. Just wore them all day every day in Southeast Asia whenever I would be off paved city streets and they were comfortable for 8+ hours at a time.

I would bring my Brooks or Nike Air white sneakers. They are my most comfortable for lots of walking. I don't wear skirts or long pants when I travel (I pack knee length shorts & capris).

We've been in Panama twice. Definitely would not consider a skirt a necessity. Casual capris, long shorts, absolutely. We were there primarily for hiking/birding. We packed light and wore the same stuff out for dinner in Panama City (Manalo Caracol--great place) as we did "on the trail". Clean, though!

Forgot to say: Salomon Amphibians and flip flops.

Thanks for the responses...
Shillmac, it's great to hear first hand what's acceptable wear.

I'm currently shoe shopping so if you have any more suggestions I'd be happy to hear them!

Of course take flip flops along, but I sure wouldn't recommend them as "everyday walking" shoes for a person with lower back pain!

Just to follow up, I bought a pair of Naots, Paris style for city walking and to wear with skirts and a pair of Keen Newports for watersports, light trail hiking and full day tours. I think I'm all set!