Hi all -
I am packing for our vacation to CR and wondering what footwear to take (besides flip-flops for beach, etc.). We do not own "hiking" boots/shoes and I'm wondering if sneakers are ok for the hikes or am I better off buying sturdy sandals for everyone...

We've worn regular "tennis shoes" for years with no problems. Not good for an especially muddy trail, but you may not come across any of those. . .Land's End makes an inexpensive water/land sneaker that is inexpensive. We like that type also.

It really depends on the trails & such but as shillmac said as long as it's not muddy or wet, tennis shoes should be fine. I have had some trails where the extra grip of hiking shoes (not boots) I really appreciated though, so it just based on what activities you'll be doing.

We just wore good running shoes for the trails and Keens for the beach. If it's muddy, I'd grab one of the walking sticks that most hotels keep on the property. I fell flat on my booty the first day at BdC - smart enough to use a walking stick after that, and it really helped on slick trails.

If you have an Academy near you, they have some lightweight mesh sneakers for $15 that I figured was worth a try - they will dry faster than regular sneaks if it's raining. In the "seasonal" shoes aisle. We're going in a couple weeks but I wore them at home all day yesterday w/out sox and they were comfortable. Bought my husband some too.

I have been really happy with my Dunham hiking shoes. This is a small New England work shoe company that was purchased a couple of years ago by New Balance. Since then, NB has gradually been adding their top flight orthopedic know how to the Dunham products. I have some pronation problems, and I have been a NB believer for a while.

I have a pair of Dunham 912 hikers. These shoes are cut like tennis shoes. They are water resistant, and quick drying when wet. They have a waffle pattern that gives great traction. I wore these in Monteverde and Arenal last year, and my feet stayed fairly dry on some long hikes. The shoes dried quickly overnight, and were ready to go again the next morning.

I actually purchased a similar pair online for my wife. There is a great site out there: www.joesnewbalanceoutlet.com. I was able to find her a pair of $95.00 Dunham hikers for $28.00. I have purchased several pairs of NB and Dunham for good prices over the last few years. I get their promotional Emails. You just have to pay attention, and buy em when your size is available.

Just so you know. I don't have any financial interest in Joe's. Just a happy customer.

Hope this helps! Let me know if I can offer more advice.

Warm Regards,
Pat Hewitt
(Travel professional)

Second vote for Land's End--wore them all through CR and now they are my favorite shoes (I teach and am on cement floors all day). Will be taking them to Mex in one week for climbing the pyramids!

Pat, I'm interested in trying the Dunham's out. . .do they run true to size?