Recommendations for waterproof, breathable walking shoes

[doglover]

We're off on holiday this summer to Austria and will be spending a lot of time walking and sightseeing. I'm looking for a lightweight, Gortex-type walking shoe that will be suitable for both activities. I have plantar fasciitis so need good, cushioned support.

I'm going shopping tomorrow - have access to Go Outdoors and Decathlon - but just wondered if you lot have any particular recommendations or makes to avoid!

Many thanks.

DONT get cheap ones
I actually stick to leather boots, and change my socks if "off road' walking and decent trail type trainers for concrete based walking again changing socks (small ziplock bag in pocket or bag works to keep smells and moisture contained)

Enjoy!

Thanks for your advice, LRF. I've got great leather walking boots which I will be taking but really want some lightweight shoes, too.

Merrell products seem to be good quality so will go and try some on. It's just a bit bewildering when there are so many products out there all claiming to be great!

If I'm going to be spending £70 - £80, I can't really afford to buy the 'wrong' pair!

Thanks for your advice, LRF. I've got great leather walking boots which I will be taking but really want some lightweight shoes, too.

Merrell products seem to be good quality so will go and try some on. It's just a bit bewildering when there are so many products out there all claiming to be great!

If I'm going to be spending £70 - £80, I can't really afford to buy the 'wrong' pair!

Apologies for double post!

Meindl Magic

Thanks, LIZS. The boots look great but really do want shoes as opposed to boots.

they do a shoe version too iirc. Salomon are good too.

www.fieldandtrek.com/meindl-jamaica-ladies-walking-shoes-187089?colcode=18708990

Salomon do great walking boots as do Raichle (not sure if non leather)

bit radical but in hot conditions, think twice about goretex. It isn't that breathable, and of course your shoes have a big hole in the top which lets the water in...

also if you are a size 7 or above try some mens shoes. Cheaper, better made and without silly pink bits.

usually a boring process getting something that fits so widen the choice as much as possible.

that said, at a size 8 I go into the shop, say 'what have you got in my size, ladies or mens?' and go from there. No point choosing from the display as most of the time they don't have it.

That's really good advice,SS. I'm a size 8 and am unconcerned whether the shoes are deemed male or female! I'll try your approach tomorrow!

If you look at men's 8s, men's shoes are usually made on a wider last than women's, so look at the narrower brands such as Scarpa and Zamberlan.

Men's merrells tend to run small, women's a little big due to how they convert from the US sizes.

I like the Salomon Ellipse, which comes with or without goretex and is not pink, purple or pale blue. In think it's made in a 42, if someone stocks it. I also like the Merrell bare access arc (very light weight) but that may not be suitable for you as it is from the barefoot range.

Unless you find a sale deal you'll struggle to get goretex for £70. As specialsubject said consider not having a lining. I find most own brand waterproof membranes too hot as they are just not as breathable as goretex, hence the price of goretex.

Gosh, lots to consider. I'll have a look at the shoes that you've recommended and have a massive try-on session tomorrow!

Merrell
Love the look
Hate the quality
Not great in the waterproof department imo