Choosing Shoes to Match your Style and Lifestyle
I’m going camping next weekend at Donner Lake. In a sleeping bag, on the ground, in a tent. I haven’t done that for over 50 years. My grandson is joining us, and I’m psyched. I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t sleep on the ground for anyone else in this world!
Since we put a deposit down on our trailer last week, I’ve been told by several friends that I don’t look like a “trailer type” woman. That begs the question, am I a camp in the woods type woman? We’ll see!
Last weekend I went to REI looking for shoes to wear camping. My regular shoes just won’t work. I know my style is going to have to change for camping and trailering, but it still has to feel genuine to me. I can’t dress like an entirely different person. My shoes have to be comfortable mentally and physically.
First, I tried on these Chaco sandals that are meant to get wet. The bright colors and rustic sole felt awkward on me. I also like softer colors, and the nylon strap was uncomfortable.
Then I tried on these Keen Whisper sandals. I’ve got several friends who wear and love them. Again, the style felt too chunky for me, and my pinkie toe kept catching on the side.
I tried on five or six different styles and left empty-handed. No matter how practical the shoes were, they just weren’t my style.
I don’t appear to be an REI shoe type woman.
I’ve decided to bring my dog walking sneakers with me, camping. While not stylish, they’re supportive and comfortable. If they get trashed in the lake, I won’t care because I’ve had them for years.
We’re picking up our new trailer next week, so I’m planning what to bring. My shoes won’t need to be quite as sturdy, but they will need to be durable and campground ready. I’ll need slip-on shoes that are easy on and off for life in a trailer. Tracking outside dirt into the RV is not a good plan.
What shoes do you wear when you camp or go in your RV?
Have a great day!
I love your dog walking shoes like I love my dog walking coat! Perfect for the occasion. Because I have a high arch I rely on my New Balance 900s with a Spenco full insert. Also Clark Artisans. My old Merrill slip on clogs are still awesome and have better insoles than their new ones. Love them for all outdoor activities.
Spenco insoles sound familiar. Clarks are very comfy in me too!
I bought hiking books online from L.L. Bean. Yes, online. They are fantastic and I could wear them forever. Ok. Aside from camping and hiking, I need help with shoes. I have Birkenstock sandals and clogs. I have boots with medium heels. We’re moving to Astoria Oregon and I really want some shoes without heels that I can wear in the rain and that aren’t clunky or rain boots. Help! I’m at a loss. Aside from rainwear, maybe it’s time to get some espadrilles or other cute flats to wear with jeans or slacks. Ideas?
Thank you!
Hi Robin,
Shoes are a challenge, I agree. I would not suggest espadrilles for rainy weather. The fabric gets wet and is nasty.
I’m a fan of simple leather, ballet flats. You can dress them up or down and they’re comfy.
It really depends on your style recipe and what you like the look of.
Clunky is not flattering on me so I avoid it.
Try lots of styles on, with your everyday clothes, do you can see what looks best. Keep me posted!
I’ll add another voice in favour of Merrells for camping and hiking. I also suggest a comfortable pair of sports sandals. This is my current pair: https://www.softmoc.com/ca/womens/softmoc/sandals/casual-sandals/gladys-brn/lds-gladys-brn-3strap-mem-foam-sandal
Thanks for the link Elaine! These look really comfortable and practical. I have to have both.
Merrill’s are the best…you need a sole that will grip. Cheap sneakers or shoes that have no ‘corrugated’ bottoms sound like a good idea until you slip on rocks or mud and then you are sorry. Crocs are sturdy but will leach every bit of moisture out of your feet until your feet are a cracked, painful mess. Also, I have Morton’s neuroma, and wide feet, but the Merrill’s are so comfy I never have a problem with pain or pinched feet. I don’t camp, but I sometimes live at an altitude of 6500 feet and walk/hike with others. Your feet are important!!!
These are really great points Lynn. Thank you! I’ve never worn Crocs for the ugly factor alone :). And I totally agree about how important tread and grip are on gravel and rocks. The very last thing I want to do is fall again! Merrill is at the top of my list.
I use EasySpirits and Crocs. Crocs are great for mud, water, and any dirty thing. The EasySprits are comfortable and supportive for walking and informal outings.
Great suggestions Ann, thanks!
Hi Jennifer,
I agree with what you said about the two styles you tried on. I’d like to suggest you take a look at Jambu shoes. I have similar interests to you in shoes and styles and i LOVE this brand. They are comfy AND stylish and perfect for travel and events like you’re talking about. Last year I wore my red Mary Jane-ish style all over Austria, I could dress them up with a striped dress (not super dressy, you know vacay fun dressy), or with jeans. Check them out!
I haven’t heard of that brand. They sound perfect. I’ll check around for them, online. Thanks Amy!
When we had our trailer we did not take extended trips so I never had to plan for a lot of different activities or worry about long term wardrobes etc… I think it will be an adventure that you will enjoy! I have some of these Go Walk shoes and they are very comfy. Super lightweight.I purchased them about 4 years ago. I have a light gray pair. They work great for all casual outings. https://www.skechers.com/en-us/style/13777/skechers-gowalk-blend/nvy
Have fun on your camping trip! I would take an air mattress though!
Thanks for the link Linda! We’re starting with short trips to see if it’s something we want to do full time. Skechers seem to be many ladies’ favorites so I’m going to try them!
They look like a practical solution to me. The last thing you want to be out on the trails and deep in the woods is uncomfortable or impractical with your shoe choice. Have fun around the campfire.
Exactly my thoughts Barbara. Unhappy feet aren’t worth it!
I’ve seen camp moccasins that ought to be just the ticket for RV camping. Maybe you could have an inside pair and an outdoor pair. LLBean, perhaps?
Slip ons are the best choice for sure. I forgot all about LL Bean! Classic outdoor sportswear. Thanks!
I’m not an REI person, either, nor am I a camping person! Gotta have air-cond, blow dryer and toilet. I have the same Saucony tennis shoe in another color. So comfortable. Shoes are an adventure at this age with finicky feet. I can’t wait to hear about your camping adventure, Jennifer!
Thanks Terry 🙂 Luckily the trailer has electricity. That’ll go a long way towards comfort for me. This weekend I’ll be wearing lots of hats!
Mine are similar to the Easy Spirit Quash slip-on sneaker. I am not affiliated with ES-just a VERY satisfied customer.
I love my Easy Spirit slip ons. They went from TN to Yellowstone and back. They are light weight and not chunky like runners. I have a pair from a couple of years ago (the particular style no longer available) and they are still in very good shape. I have washed them in the washer along with some towels – then air dried them in the shade. Similar styles are in the ES stores. Get a pair in taupe/nude and the “camping dust”won’t show as quickly.
Have fun shopping!