Treat Your Feet - How to Choose Your Travel Shoe

Traveling is a luxury!  It’s an amazing opportunity to pack up and journey to somewhere new.  This earth is full of history and beautiful sights and while we can ‘google image’  or purchase a calendar with pictures of the world’s wonders there’s nothing like seeing and standing in it.

Mr and I are finally going on a trip together!  Between our MANY years long distance during his medical studies and military service it just hasn’t been an option for us.  I’m thrilled to say, our flights are booked and reservations made to see San Francisco, Napa & Sonoma! 

When planning our first ‘real’ vacation Paris was at the top of my list then a long list of other European cities. Once we sat down and started to review our career responsibilities, timing and many other elements we decided that staying in the US was best.  We also wanted something relaxing because the reality is that we went a very long time without being together while he was deployed in the Middle East.

We are blessed to have several friends that have already visited wine country and they have gladly shared their recommendations.  We also have friends that live in San Fran to show us around.

Stay tuned for a recap next month!

One of the biggest components of planning any trip is packing.  No matter what your man tells you, you can NOT  just throw a bunch of clothes in a suitcase and go.  You have to be  strategic in planning your ensembles.  There are so many things to consider like weather, activities, atmosphere and of course versatility – the lighter the better!

Whether you’re pounding the pavement of a metropolitan city like NYC, grazing the hillside of CA or strolling the cobblestone streets of Europe comfortable shoes are Very Essential!

But what about looking cute?!!! Why is it so hard to have both?!  Gals, I hear ya!  I have had many requests over the past several weeks on finding cute AND comfortable shoes.  Let’s face it, wedges and heels just aren’t conducive to all day sightseeing.  And gym shoes just aren’t chic.

You want shoes that are supportive, made of leather, breathable, and have a sturdy sole to provide cushion and a solid barrier between you and the ground.

AND you want them to look as good as your outfit.

I hate to be a dream killer, trust me I do! But a compromise must be made because nothing will ruin your vacation like blisters and sore feet. 

I’ve rounded up a variety of shoes and reviews for you to help you choose your next travel shoes! 

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#2:  I actually purchased these for myself.  I was in the store and saw they were on major sale and decided to try them on.  I like that they are not just made with leather straps but a leather sole too.  They have a top and back strap for a secure fit.  The sole is this rubber so I'm hoping it will provide cushion and ample barrier between my feet and the hard ground. 

#5:  I own these!  Birkenstocks were the jam back in high school ... it seems like everything from my teen years is cycling back in style.  Just as my Mamma shook her head when trends of her youth resurfaced, as am I! They are way too 'crunchy', 'hippie' 'granola' whatever you want to call it for my style however their comfort trumps my lack of affection for them.  They're those shoes that are great to have for casual days full of walking. - too bad I didn't hang on to my pair from high school and had to recently repurchase. 

#4 & #8:  Born shoes are hands down great on comfort! They have a ton of cushion and support and came highly recommended by a gal pal who wore Born sandals all around Europe last month!

#6:  These look like they would really  hold your feet in place and with a sole that's molded for extra support you could almost run in these.

#7:  Who knew UGG made more than just boots with the fur??!!!  I haven't tried these but the brand is better at function rather than style - at least in my opinion. 

#1 & #3:  I picked these as they aren't a wedge more of a flat form so you get some height but without the pressure.  Made of cork and light weight materials they seem to be a perfect blend of both style and comfort.

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#1:  Clarks are just great for comfort and I give them major points for stepping up their design game. These ballet flats are cute and contain a very sturdy sole.  They even have a bow!

#2:  I have a pair of these on my wish list.  I say wish list because they are pricey.  However, they are very high quality therefor if taken care of will last you many years.  Shoes like these I resole every so often and keep on strutting!  They are polished enough to wear to the office and on weekends.  They would be great for days that include street strolling straight to dinner.

#3: These are perforated flats that also have perforated soles.  They are perfect for keeping your feet cool in warm conditions. Nobody wants to walk around with powder in their shoes.

#4:  I like these not only for their soft leather construction but because they have a pointer toe box.  It gives the shoe a dresser look and is elongation on the leg.

#5: Another shoe by Born, I love the knobby rubber sole and metallic finish give is a nice finish.  I'm normally not a fan of flats with elastic but these have such a slight stretch I believe they will hug just right.

#6: These flats are by Puma.  Puma is known for their athletic shoes so I imagine these will be like walking in sneakers but so much cuter.

#7:  A shoe to fit any foot style with it's array of colors.  My gal pals that are mammas swear by these cuties.  They are also on my list of possible purchases.  I've held off as they aren't quite dressy enough for the office and currently I have enough weekend shoes.  Once sandal weather is gone I may go for it and snag me a pair ... but oh what color or print will I choose?!!!

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#1 & #3:  These are your classic slip ons.  Easy on and off without the bulk of a traditional sneaker.

#2 & #6:  Again these are coming back from my teen years.  Light and bright and again no bulk are casual classic sneakers.

#4:  I own these and love them!  They are a blank canvass and never go out of style.  You can even wash them in the washing machine, although I'm too afraid to do so for fear of damaging my appliance.  They are great for weekends and back yard parties with games.  They're so cute I pair them with a casual sundress.

#5 & #7: A slimmer silhouette for a sneaker but still with the cushioned sole, these are a great option for light athletic activities.

I hope that this was helpful in finding your next pair of traveling shoes.  Remember, they may not be as cute as your strappy heels but when you're wearing a happy smile no one will be looking down at your feet!

Focus on the experience, the company and the wonders that God has created! 

Dress Beautifully & Strut Comfortably in Travel Friendly Shoes

XOXO Sarah Louise