First time Camino advice??

[EllenOd]

Hi all,

I am walking my first Camino in June. I was told I should bring at least 2 pairs of shoes for walking. I have a pair of ASICS GT-2000 12’s which I’m breaking in, but I’m unsure what to use as my second pair of shoes, I see many people talking about hiking boots/trail shoes but I don’t really want to pay for expensive shoes when I’ll only be walking for roughly 6-7 days. I was thinking of bringing a pair of standard running shoes as well as my ASICS because my hiking boots could be really heavy to carry around, especially if it’s warm, but as I’m not sure what the terrain will by like I’m unsure what to do.

Any help is greatly appreciated!!

 

[Grousedoctor]

How exciting, your first Camino! Regarding shoes, your Asics don’t need to be broken in. They’re ready to go right out of the box. However, with that said, it’s still a good idea to train and get some miles on your legs and enjoy wearing those shoes. I’m not familiar with this ASICS model, but my trail running shoes have been just fine on all types of terrain. You’ll be all set with those shoes.

I’ve never brought a second pair of walking shoes even for a long Camino. What you might want to consider is a pair of sandals or other afternoon/evening shoes to put on after your walking day is over. Even when I’ve hit rain, my shoes have pretty much dried out by the next morning. Personally, I wouldn’t bring along a heavy pair of hiking boots as back ups. You won’t need them. Even walking just 6-7 days, you’ll enjoy having as light a pack as possible. Buen Camino!

 

[TMcA]

My experience is that most people bring a single pair of shoes for walking and another lightweight pair of flipflops or clogs for showering and airing out their feet at the end of the day.

 

[J Willhaus]

Where will you be starting? Boots are probably not needed although some people prefer them. Some people wear hiking sandals such as Tevas or Chacos and many wear cross trainers or running shoes.

I agree to bring 2 pair of shoes, but one is for daily walking and the other evening and letting your feet air out and recover.

 

[Roland49]

Bring pair of walking shoes and lightweight flipflops / sandals for shower.
I prefer sandals (Teva), they're not as bulky than Crocs and waterproof, too.

 

[David Tallan]

Hi all,

I am walking my first Camino in June. I was told I should bring at least 2 pairs of shoes for walking. I have a pair of ASICS GT-2000 12’s which I’m breaking in, but I’m unsure what to use as my second pair of shoes, I see many people talking about hiking boots/trail shoes but I don’t really want to pay for expensive shoes when I’ll only be walking for roughly 6-7 days. I was thinking of bringing a pair of standard running shoes as well as my ASICS because my hiking boots could be really heavy to carry around, especially if it’s warm, but as I’m not sure what the terrain will by like I’m unsure what to do.

Any help is greatly appreciated!!

I'm June, I liked to take a pair of trail runners (I've had success with Merrell Moabs and Hoka Challengers) and a pair if hiking sandals. Modern trail runners don't need to be "broken in", like the older leather hiking boots did. You just need to wear them enough to be sure they fit well and work with your feet.

 

[André Walker]

Unless your feet smell a lot worse than those of the rest of mankind, I can't imagine why they told you to bring 2 pairs of walking shoes/boots.

The others are right: 1 pair of walking shoes/boots and 1 pair of sandals or flipflops will do.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I prefer sandals (Teva), they're not as bulky than Crocs and waterproof, too.

Teva's are nice, but I will add that the Croc brand has added many other less bulky options than the original "Dutch" shoe they were known for. They even make a true flipflop, although I prefer a toeless sandal as they are easier to wear with socks on chilly evenings.
There are other less expensive knock-off brands that are just as lightweight.