Shoes for camino in Sept/Oct

[AniBani]

Hi!

I'm thinking of doing the camino (or a part of it) next September/October. I've never done a hike before so am quite lost about many things!

I have decided to buy shoes soon to start training. Any suggestions for shoe choices?

Gracias.

[Leslie]

This is one of the questions that can start a fight...

My other half walked the Camino in her boots ans swears by them. However I perfer walking shoes and use Merrell - like these ones - Merrell | Store | Moab GORE-TEX®

Now I have only walked the Camino during the summer, if I was walking shoulder season I would use boots as you are more likely have have a bit more rain.

Just make sure whatever you buy is comfortable and broken in before you go, I had hell with my feet the first time because I did not do this.

[Lipka149]

This is one of the questions that can start a fight...

Just make sure whatever you buy is comfortable and broken in before you go, I had hell with my feet the first time because I did not do this.

Listen well, AniBani ! If your feet are not happy, the rest of you is sure to suffer.

Find a store that specializes in outdoor activities. Connect with a person in that store who has been there awhile. Listen to their advice. Whatever you do, check how a boot/shoe fits going down at a 45 degree angle. Good stores have a step stool that does this. PAY ATTENTION. Your toes must be happy going down.

I walked in Skarpas and swear by them. Ankle support trumped light weight. Break in time was minimal. My wife likes her Merrells though, and they have served her well. Whatever you eventually choose, just understand that it is up to you to recognize when/if a blister is forming. Your awareness to this is something you cannot buy. Be smart. Do everything you can to help your boots/shoes work with you.

And if after three days on the trail, they ain't workin' ... be willing to give them away and buy new ones ! Even new boots fresh out of the box are better than the ones on your feet giving you fits !