Walking shoes that don't look ugly.

[MrsTerryPratchett]

I don't normally venture into S and B, but I need your help. I'm going somewhere quite adventurous in a few months and need some shoes that will stand up to walking a lot (not up mountains but rough pavement and some very gentle walking 'off-road'). I HATE most walking, hiking and running shoes. Nasty, either horribly colourful or boringly practical.

Last time I went into the wild I wore DC skater sneakers which are surprisingly hard wearing and practical. I am a good ten years older now and can't get away with that any more. I keep thinking Vans or Converse but I think they they may fail by being completely impractical AND a bit young.

I throw myself on your mercy.

Have you looked at Keens?

Either one their casual shoes like Coronado, or their hiking shoes? Not quite so ugly as some of the other brands IMO...

I took some of their Clearwater type sandals travelling and they were soooo comfortable.

Your trip sounds amazing. Yunnan is beautiful. Women really do wear high heels in the most inappropriate places - so I think you should consider it to fit in!

I did something similar and wore Merrell sandals/flip flops most of the time. At least they look like normalish shoes if you go out to eat etc. Get ones with a proper vibram sole and you won't have to worry about slipping if it's wet.

Have a great time.

I had a look at the Keens and we might be on to something. Would these be practical enough? Merrells are OK, agin this one is nice. Slighty worried that they are boots so no idea what I will do if it is warm and I need to have them in my pack...

What about something from the Skechers range?

This

or this

These are my final offering