Need a good walking shoe

In My Humble Opinion
1

I wasn’t sure where to put this, IMHO didn’t seem right given what else was in there, so this looked like the best place.

My wife and I are doing a German Christmas market cruise in December. This involves a LOT of walking, so I’m looking for recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoe. I don’t want hiking boots or something that looks like a running shoe if it can be avoided. I want something that I could possibly wear on a casual day at work as well (casual for us is a polo shirt and dockers). Any suggestions?

2

Keen Shoes. I wore Austin’s for years and put a lot of miles on them.

3

I’m getting good mileage from the New Balance 1069:

They come in different widths, which is hard to find.

4

I’ve worn Rockports in the past. Currently, I wear ECCO shoes, which are also quite comfortable.

5

I also like New Balance. I have a pair of these. If you like slip on shoes, these might work for you.

6

Another extremely satisfied Ecco wearer for many years—and many kilometers.

7

No, no, IMHO is perfect for it. Mostly those asking for advice or suggestions are.

8

In my experience . . . after wearing various New Balance shoes . . . the best walking shoe is in fact a hiking shoe: Merrell, waterproof and ventilated. I can walk several miles in them, and never get blisters, or need Moleskin. They’re totally supportive and comfortable, and virtually the only shoes I ever wear. They cost more, but are well worth it.

9

Keen had treated me well. I walk about 5 miles a day (long commute) and my winter shoes are Keen boots and my summer shoes are Keen sandals. They aren’t like walking on clouds or anything, but they’ve never given me any problems and they last a couple seasons of daily wear.

Honestly the shoes aren’t going to be the main issue. If you aren’t much of a walker, it’d be smart to build up to it now.

10

I absolutely adore Skechers GOWalk shoes. Amazingly light and comfortable. I walk up to 10 miles a day and find them brilliantly supportive and comfortable.

It’s really important to try the different models on and see what works best for your feet.

11

Merrell is good but never stays waterproof for long, in my experience. New Balance is best.

12

I second this. Sketchers GoWalk’s are like walking on marshmallows, and they’re light as a feather.

13

I wish Hoka made shoes that didn’t look like running shoes. Those things are comfortable as heck.

14

San Antonio shoes. Wonderfully comfortable. www.Sasshoes.com

15

Seconded, though I did find a pair of winter boots with Hoka soles. If you ever see any, please do share!

16

Check out Dansko shoes.

17

I second the Merrell’s, “Moab” (if I remember correctly). For the Christmas trip, these will be good in rain, wet conditions (not only waterproof, but good traction as well).
Being stiffer for hiking, they provide support for long days of walking. I use these for any “long days on my feet” type of trips, and they are the most comfortable.

(I have never tried the New Balance, though. So I can’t compare them)