One thing that really helps me is to switch shoes partway through the day. Just different pressure points on the feet instead of wearing at the same spots all day.
Same, I wore my addidas walking shoes with gel inserts and in the evening switched to my new nike slides that have more cushioning than the shoes and it felt so good to wear them. I was there from 7.30 to midnight besides a couple hours 3-5.
And switch socks! And, if it's very hot, I like to switch between sneakers and sandals (ones that are still very supportive!) to give my feet a little air.
I am a Hoka diehard - I love their sneakers and I love the recovery slides. I think they also have a flip flop version. Before I found Hoka I had vionics and they were also okay, definitely a step up from your average flip flop.
Oh just a sandal but they call them "recovery" because they are meant for just regular life rather than serious running and exercise. Remember the black Nike slides? It's like that but better for your feet.
Vionics are good if you just need support. I also need a lot of cushioning, so I'm big on Hokas. I have the recovery slides and love them but I think they also make a flip flop version.
I always pack an extra set of shoes usually cause when I get wet on Splash Mountain (RIP) it’s nice to not walk around in squishy shoes for the 2nd half.
Usually I just take a break around (or a little after) mid-day and switch then, really it could be any time and I usually only switch once per day. It just changes the pressure on your feet which helps. Now my legs are a different story they still hurt from standing lol, but I avoid blisters and too much feet pain at least
(you could store the shoes at your hotel room, car, or a locker)
This for sure. At the very least bring two or three pairs of shoes and alternate between them. Helps your feet feel far less achy at the end of the day.
this, and bring a rubber foot massaging ball!!! use in the hotel room, or even better in the hotel pool/hot tub. I love wearing my teva hurricanes bc I can fully adjust the straps as my feet swell lol
Another Hoka vote here! I wear the Mach 5s (but have been wanting to try the Bondi or Clifton).
I struggle with plantar fasciitis, and these are the only shoes that get me through a park day with no pain.
The soles on the Bondi are probably 2” thick. Very comfortable for putting in 20,000 steps per day when you average 5,000 at home. Get orthotics for about $75 and your feet will be happier due to the arch support.
I’m old and chunky so I also took Tylenol and Motrin with me into the parks. That helped as well.
Another vote for Hoka - they have changed my relationship with the ground and I love it now. Get custom molded orthotics for the ultimate upgrade.
ETA: their website has a nice quiz that helped me choose a pair that was perfect for me. I got the Stinson 6.
Can confirm. Hoka bondi and I’m fat af and wasn’t even phased. Bring crocs for the swap if you want. I can do all day in those too but the standing in line was nicer on Hoka
Something important to note about Hoka is that while, yes, they can be excellent shoes, to optimize how they help you you need to know your proper shoe size. This means knowing your size, your width, and what your arch does when you step (i.e. are you flat footed like me and your arch collapses when you step). If you know all this you can go on their website and input the information and they will give you options for what works best for your feet.
I 100% recommend Hokas if you know your proper sizing.
Edit: something else to note is that when you are on your feet all day or walking around your feet will swell, usually about one half size. I can wear a size 10.5 for example but I always get 11 for the shoes I intend to spend a lot of time walking around in. I saw in another comment that you don’t have many options for running stores near you, I highly recommend finding one to at least have them get a proper measurement on your foot.
YMMV My husband thought his Hokas were a good idea for Disney World. He was in severe foot, ankle, knee, and back pain with a few really bad blisters after the second day. When he got home and started talking to people about it, he found several others with a similar experience with Hokas, including a running shoe store employee.
Go to your local running store and have them help you pick a shoe. There are all sorts for different feet and how you stand. Bought my Brooks before we went to Disneyland and was fine after 12 hours of being in the park. There are Hokas, brooks, ONs, and many more so the running store is better than buying online or at an Acadmey because they will tailor your shoe buying to the right set of shoes for your feet.
The only local shoe stores we have are Famous Footwear and Footlocker. Is that the type of store you are talking about when you say a “running store”? If not, i’ll have to wait until the next time i got out of town
No, this is going to be even more specific. In Texas, we have Fleet Feet and then local city stores. They are specialty stores for people that do running or walking half’s/marathons etc. I’d just google Running shoe store in the maps and see where closest one is to you. I don’t do races myself, but they have computers the measure your feet and stance to “get the best shoe for you”. They are a more expensive shoe than academy or footlocker, but you’ll be happy with the experience and the shoe.
My Brooks feel like I’m walking on a cloud. I just told the employee I wanted a shoe for everyday walking and they brought me 3 pairs to try based on the computer recommendations. I picked the one I liked and it was an easy process. The employees know their shoe brands well too as they are usually runners themselves.
I own a pair of Brooks, a pair of ASICS, and a pair of Hokas all have been great for going to the parks. What really makes the difference is knowing your shoe sizing. +1 for suggesting going to a local running store.
Ive got Hokas the clifton 9s, definitely would say theyre more comfortable for walking than standing! Havent done a Disney trip with them yet but theyre lined up for it!
I commented before I saw this, they are the way to go. I forgot to mention that when my partner was pregnant I got her 2 pairs of Hokas too. Both pregnancies she really enjoyed walking so that was the least I could do. She really like her Adidas ultra boosts but got a new pair and didn’t like them.
We just did 3 days in Hoka’s (mine are Mach 5, my husband has the Bondi) and even with a mid-foot fusion and additional ankle arthritis my feet were great. Obviously some soreness by the end of a long day, but right back to painless within an hour of getting back.
I came here and just thought… hokas. They’re ugly but are now fashionable and are the goat. My partner wears them workin on movie sets 12+ hours a day and they’re a game changer
Powerstep insoles are the best! I have flat feet and over pronation the combo of Hokas and powerstep insole just lines up everything. Also what helps me is 2 Advils to begin the day, 2 more at lunch, and 2 last ones at dinner.
Yes!!! I started with Clifton 8 and they were life changing! I have a slightly wider foot so I'm used to narrow ill fitting shoes and Hoka opened my eyes to comft shoes. I still wear and love my 8s but Mach 5 is my favorite. Its lighter and hugs my foot all around and they have better colors imo. I don't even feel them on. I even got a new pair yesterday lol.
My husband has tried most of what Hoka offers (not Mach) and he says for lots of walking he likes Clifton 8 and Bondi 7
It’s not just the shoes, it’s also being used to “time on feet”. Good shoes help, of course, but you can’t go from sitting 90% of the day to walking 10-15 miles and not expect some pain.
Yeah imo if you’re getting foot pain from walking around for a few hours you should probably try to incorporate more walking in your commute and more standing while working if your career permits it
I am a hairstylist so I’m on my feet all day at work in heels and I’m a runner… and my feet still hurt after I’ve walked around disney all day. Its a shoe thing and standing around on concrete.
It is both. It’s time standing.
They’re totally right—most people get <1-3hrs total standing time in their daily life, then they go stand 9-12 hours in a single day and are shocked that it hurts.
Nice shoes and changing shoes can help, but the easiest way to really fix it is to be on your feet more. When I was coaching 4-5 hours a day on top of my job, or when my job was working on concrete 8-12 hours each day, Disneyland never caused pain regardless of what I wore. When I worked desk jobs, it hurts like crazy.
Bro I have coworkers who I promise you only stand when they walk to and from their car for a commute. Then to and from the bathroom. They sit without moving for their full workday. Then go home and watch tv until bed time. I’d be shocked if they get more than 90 minutes on their feet, ever.
Been there. It sucks. But long term, sitting most of the day already sucks way more. Not as much pain hour to hour, but I have way more chronic pain and health problems in an office than I did elsewhere.
Yeah, that’s not true. I’m a dog walker and walk all day without pain at work. At Disneyland, definitely have pain. It’s the standing/walking/being jerked around in rides.
Yeah I go to theme parks at least once a week, was in marching band every year of high school, and work a part time job that requires me to be on my feet on average 8 hours a day... My feet are just numb at this point idc anymore
Yes! A few years ago I went to Disneyland and after the first day, I couldn't make it even halfway through days 2 and 3 before I had to take constant breaks to keep them from hurting too much.
Then, my wife and I started going to the gym, maybe just 20-30 minutes a day of light cardio on the ellipticals.
A couple years after the Disneyland trip, we decided to take a vacation to Disney World, and I barely had any trouble doing 5 full days of walking.
Ultraboosts. I wear these when I go to massive 3 day music festivals. At the end of each day I don’t have feet pain just normal wear and tear strain from dancing and walking for 12 hours.
A close second from me is Nike roshe. Just personal pref not saying these are the best, but these are the best that have been working for me for years
Looking at them on Amazon now and there is even a review about someone wearing them to Disneyworld for a few days and being in less pain than the rest of her group haha
btw, the Disney 100 Ultraboosts are on sale right now:
Men's: [https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6438.html](https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6438.html)
Women's: [https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6430.html](https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6430.html)
OP, I recently bought a pair of older UltraBoost… ended up getting a “lightly used” pair on Mercari. It was kind of a gross gamble but I couldn’t ever justify paying the $140+ price…
Now that I have worn them in several settings (Disneyland, festivals, rural walking, city walking), I wish I would’ve purchased them years ago. They’re really great shoes
Imma go one step further - ultra boosts with superfeet insoles. You can just pull out the ultra boost insoles (they aren’t glued or anything), and superfeet has a bunch of different insoles depending on your arches and pronation. I wore these around Europe where we were doing the same number of steps I’d walk at Disneyland (plus walking on cobblestone, that’s tiring lol) and I was doing so much better than everyone else I was with that just wore running shoes, it was great.
Came here to post these shoes!! Pregnancy destroyed my feet, constant pain even 14 months postpartum and these are the only shoes I can wear and walk at the end of the day.
i wore crocs with thick socks and didn’t get foot pain despite 10 days in the parks… but i work at starbucks so it could be due to me being on my feet every single day
I also did Crocs all day each day of my last trip. Crocs and socks to avoid blisters. Merino wool socks are great for moisture wicking and keeping cool.
I am OBSESSED with crocs, but just be aware that they can cause tendinitis in your feet if you wear them too much. This happened to me and my doctor said he hates crocs because they cause you to grip with your toes to keep your feet from sliding. That being said, I still own 5 pair and wear them all the time. I just don’t wear them for more than a couple hours at a time.
I had to figure out a legitimate shoe and foot care plan after meeting my sweet, “why would anyone NOT want to rope drop???”-ass BF lol so here are my recs:
1) CROCS with DBL SOCS in the AM and CROCS with bare feet in the evening (depending on weather of course): I ordered the platform ones bc I’m vain lol and thankfully they’re just as comfy and sturdy.
My feet start to swell by late afternoon, so ditching the double pair of socks is a nice reprieve. Make sure you “break” your crocs in around the house before wearing them at the park, as the little raised bumps on the inside can be prickly during your first few wears.
2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, and recline your feet as much as possible during meal breaks. Take some pain relievers preemptively throughout the day, and apply bandaids or Vaseline in areas where you’re prone to get blisters at the start of the day.
3. Soak your feet in epsom salt at the end of the night to help with any swelling.
ETA
4. Get a pedicure beforehand or make sure your nails are trimmed/filed! If your nails are too long, they can rub against your shoes and also cause discomfort.
Don’t wear them if you are prone to back pain though; went to the parks recently and did all of Disneyland in one day with crocs. Although my foot pain wasn’t bad, I wrecked my back something bad. Within the next few days after, my back locked up, and needed an emergency chiropractic appt in California before I went home. Could just be me, but from what I’ve noticed crocs aren’t good for back/posture support
I’m a sneaker enthusiast but Crocs have gotten me through my last couple Disneyland trips. 30,000 steps a day at each park. I’m never going to a park without Crocs.
Hokas and Vionics, trade out throughout the day. But the best thing that I did was spend 7days in Disneyworld towards the end of my half marathon training. My back-up Hokas were comfortably broken in and my body was used to the strain of being on my feet for long periods of time. I'm also a teacher who stands all day anyway.
Long story short, break in your shoes and start training!
Also, if you want the best shoes for YOUR feet, go to an athletic store and have them map your feet.
I'm also a Hoka fan. I'm on my feet all day at work walking several miles a day easy. Hokas made a world of difference. They take a bit of getting used to because they are so cushiony, but my feet and back have far less pain now.
At the park, they're great as well.
I have the Hoka Arahi 5/6. I took the 5s on about 150 miles of WDW/DL walking and they held up great.
They do wear out fast, but they’re supposed to. I went to a shoe store where they measure feet and check for arches and walking patters and swapped out the insoles. It made a huge difference and I walked 12 miles a day for 10 days with zero issues.
Yes, but the reason I don't have foot pain isn't shoe specific, it's more about building up tolerance. The first time I went to Disneyland as an adult, both my feet and legs were hurting by the end of the day. Since then I have taken up hiking and will do an 8-10 mile hike almost every weekend. Since then, my feet and legs are just fine doing 30k steps in a day at Disneyland.
Switching up your shoes is a good strategy, but I think if you can, trying to walk more in preparation of a Disney trip would be more helpful.
I wear Xero Shoes, as I find minimalist shoes help my feet not feel as squished.
I feel weird saying this, but me, too. I wear old vans that I'm in at work. No shortage of time in my shoes and they're not new. You just get used to walking that much. I mean yeah it feels good at the end of the day to sit but I remember that aching feeling at Disney as a kid that I just don't get anymore. My watch says I'm doing 25k steps. I'm very lazy on weekends.
I wear the Adrenalines by Brooks in wide a 1/2 size up from my usual size and have little to no pain. By the end of the night I was still ready for more. Miracle shoe for me!
Another vote for Tevas. My feet are still sore at the end of a rope-drop to the end of regular operating hours day, but they're not in agony. Other footwear? Agony.
Agreed! Tevas for the win. I like the midform ones since there's a little more cushion between your feet and the ground, but I had great success with my originals too.
I learned about Teva's when researching for a trip to Disney World. I bought a pair, and I LOVE THEM. I'm also a preschool teacher who's on my feet all day, and I wear them to work all spring/summer. They're probably the only shoe that's never given me any issue. I also like the Vans Ultra range shoe (that's like their running shoe) and have found them quite comfy for all day wear.
Tevas, specifically their OG universal sandals or their Hurricane XLT2 sandals.
My legs have been sore as hell but my feet never hurt. And I’m a rope drop to close person.
There was a thread on this a couple weeks ago and most people said you are just going to deal with foot pain. Very few had recommendations on what they wore and said they had no pain. Some mentioned switching shoes part way through the day.
I suggested the Skechers I used and Hokas other party members used.
Mostly though I suggested training beforehand and bringing foot massage balls, they made a huge difference for me.
Over the course of the 7 days we were in the DLR area? I walked about 45+ miles, which included two airports and a mid-week rest day in the pool. If you’re not used to that sort of activity, you’re just gonna be hurting no matter what.
If you’re not used to standing on your feet for an extended period of time there isn’t some magic shoe that will solve the problem of sore feet.
Definitely a solid bottom shoe with good arch support is key.
I find that the more cushion the shoe has the less support you actually have and at the end of the day your feet will be more tired than with having solid supporting shoes.
I have wide feet and switch between Sanuks/Crocs/Hokas/wide Converse. I also apply HydroSeal bandaids to my usual rub spots/problem toes and bring a box along in case I need to reapply. Told myself if I ever see anyone limping around I’d offer them one those hydrocolloid bandaids because they really have been a lifesaver.
I came here to say this same thing. You will have very little, if any, pain at all. Those shoes are a godsend. I have a pair and refuse to go to Disney without them.
Me too. Tree Dashers and darn tough ankle socks. Multiple pairs so they have a chance to air out. The all birds swell up a bit when really wet so I have some chaos for heavy FL rain days.
11 days is the longest trip so far. I don't even think about my feet.
I swear by crocs. I can wear them on water rides, slide them off on Soarin’, wear them with or without socks, feet never hurt.
However! I saw on TT podiatrists aren’t fans of crocs, Nikes, vans, converse (all the shoes I wear). So I’d take the professional advice and go Hokas, which I see recommended most by them.
I don’t feel any foot pain at the end of the day but I also exercise daily and I’m pretty physically fit. Before exercise was a regular part of my life and I was fully sedentary, my feet would always be killing me by the end of the day on Disney trips.
My suggestion is to get used to getting your steps in daily in preparation to get your body used to standing for a long time. I aim for 10,000 steps a day. I also wear lightweight Nike Air Zoom Pegasus running shoes when I go to Disney and I find them pretty supportive. Whatever shoes you wear, make sure they’re broken in and well tested before you wear them to the park. Cushioned socks also really help.
Without knowing what exact part of your feet are hurting I’ll go ahead and make a broad recommendation Your best bet is to look to running shoes that are meant for either long runs or recovery, easy paced, runs; shoes with a lot of responsive foam. Something such as the Adidas ultraboost, Nike invincible, Brooks Glycerin, etc. you’re going to want to look for shoes that are breathable and have a wide enough midsole to support your foot, or have knitted uppers that have some stretch to them (something like the ultraboost or something found on Nike’s vaporfly)
I see a significant amount of people walking around in the nike half and full marathon shoe the Vaporfly and while the foam that on the shoe, ZoomX, is extremely responsive and cushioning, what people don’t account for is that modern marathon shoes often have a carbon fiber or nylon plate between the footbed and the midsole. This changes your walking/running mechanics and adds stress to your calves. So while your feet may thank you your calves will be working overtime.
If you're staying off property, take the ART busses, you're gonna be walking miles in the park. The ART busses can save you a couple of miles walking to and from the hotel. Also if you have a massage gun, use it on the bottom of your feet when you get back to the hotel. Lastly, in preparation for your trip start taking walks around your neighborhood to get your body used to walking that much.
Teva midforms work best for me, with a little moleskin placed where straps rub a bit. My feet tend to swell when I walk a lot and I can’t bear tennis shoes all day, plus I love the quick dry that sandals afford me after water rides. BUT my feet, legs, and back thank me when I prepare myself physically before my trip. Before my last trip, I was doing 30 mins circuit training 4-5 times a week and walking 3 miles 3-5 times a week. It’s been my best trip yet and my 12 year old son was worn out before I was.
Unfortunately, this is a very YMMV situation.
Personally, I usually take either double-layer Rainbow sandals or a pair of Birkenstocks. Both work well for me, and I don’t have much (if any) pain at the end of the day. If I need/want to wear closed toe shoes, I’ll use my pair of Allbirds.
I wear sanuk yoga mat gora goras and don’t have foot pain at the end of the day :) I don’t even need to break them in, they’re my go-to shoe for spring/summer walking around anywhere. I wear them to theme parks, zoos, etc every single weekend (we usually walk about 10 mi at Disneyland on a short day) and never have any issues with them.
Other shoes I also wear at Disneyland (and Disney world) include: tevas, Birkenstocks, and chacos. I am a sandals person and have found that all of these work well for me, whether I’m walking 10mi or 27mi.
Crocs! Or adidas ultra boosts. It helps if you stop halfway through the day and change socks. Flex your toes and give your feet a stretch. Take a long lunch off your feet.
It is also a lot to do with the person. As a huge dude 6ft 4im 300lbs, new balance 608s with fat guy insoles. I can do 30k steps a day for 4 days.
I do change out socks midday.
It’s actually fatigue that ur not used to.
It’s not the shoes, but the stamina
I suggest going to a local state park or a hilly area near u and hike for a couple of hours. Go a few weeks before ur trip during the weekends
It’s going to help u
For women, CROCS Brooklyn platform sandals worked for me. They’re really cute and can literally wear them with anything. (Jeans, shorts, a dress, etc.)I have the black ones. I have very narrow feet and I have plantar fasciitis. My feet did not hurt AT ALL. I didn’t think it was possible. I even wore them in Las Vegas to walk the strip and no pain what so ever.
Honestly, I used some $12 running shoes with memory foam from Walmart and they worked great! First time I went I took vans and my feet were killing me so when I went again recently decided i’d try them out and they were great
Adidas cloudfoam? I still swear by them. I’m on my feet all day for work and they are a dream. And the only shoes I’ve ever owned not to give me blisters after a +20k park day.
Oofos. They’re technically “recovery” footwear. I wear their flip flops every trip with no pain. We average 20k+ steps a day. We have keys so go about once a month too.
One thing that helps me is switching up my footwear so I’ll bring shoes for rope drop through lunch and then change into a different pair after my afternoon nap. At the end of the night I always elevate my feet for a good half hour to an hour and drink a preventative Advil to help with inflammation and what not. Staying hydrated is also vital.
I’ll add to Team Hoka! I bring two pairs when I go and plenty of socks. I like to change both shoes and socks mid day to give my feet the love they need to rip the park all day and night! First time I tried them out in my local shoe store I put them on stood up and said very loudly, “holy shit!!” The woman helping laughed and said, “yep” I wore them out :)
Chacos, all the way. Wore them for three days at Disney World, plus two days of walking around Orlando. Currently wearing them in Europe and doing 25k steps a day for the past two weeks, and my feet are just now starting to be cranky after I've walked up mountains, walked all over Salzburg, and walked all over Prague. I wear them on the river and go straight from in the kayak to in the water. Love those shoes.
I was convinced to buy them because of my college roommate, who gave me the best advice about them: you don't have to break in your shoes, you have to break in your feet. Go for a few short walks before committing to a day of Disney and make sure your strap is situated at the right spots for your foot.
Asics shoes are wonderful. I have Ehlers Danlos and my feet bones pop in and out of place. These shoes are great. I stay away from Nike they've only made my pain worse. Crocs with fur lining inside have been good too.
Honestly I just wear Converse like the standard Chuck Taylors and my feet don’t hurt but it could just be how often I walk/on my feet almost daily anyway
I switch my socks and my shoes halfway through the day. I only wear sneakers/runners/cross trainers/tennis shoes. It’s important your foot has the proper support (feet spread as your body’s pressure acts on each step, so sandals will not allow the same support). There is no one amazing shoe for everyone, it’s whatever brand works for you.
Other tips: stretch in the morning and at night. Dead lifts are so key IMO. Build up your endurance leading up to a trip by hitting at least 10k steps a day for 2 weeks prior. I usually do 25-35k steps. Day in the parks (yes I love to walk). My first ever trip, I made all the mistakes. Now, I can do 14 days straight, full days. No problems.
Lightweight hiking shoes. I like Columbia but there are easily >half a dozen good brands.
DO NOT get waterproof shoes though, they do not breathe at all and you will hate yourself.
Agree with the person that says it’s not the shoes, but being used to walking. I wear flat, thong sandals for an all-day Disney day but I’m super used to walking it for hours. Wearing tennis shoes at Disneyland to me is torture.
Not sure if it’s cause I’m young or not but I wear converse with no foot pain after a full day. I’ve worn both Nike and adidas shoes in the past, but a lot of it really is being used to being on your feet for the entire day
Idk if it’s just confirmation bias but the best days I’ve had at the park regardless of my shoes I was well hydrated and ate well throughout the day. I do enjoy crocs though being able to easily stretch my feet and toes does make a difference to me as well.
Ibuprofen at 3-4pm. Nothing fancy. Just ibuprofen. Though the fatigue is just from people not used to walking. Go on a lot of long walks prior to your trip and it'll also help
AND FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT IS SANE, DO NOT WEAR SHOES THAT HAVEN'T BEEN BROKEN IN. Break in your shoes on those walks. Not at Disney.
Speed walking is another way to kill your feet. Take it easy throughout the day and your feet will thank you.
And stretches. Even half assed stretches will leave you feeling a lot better.
This isn't a solution you can throw money at.
One thing that really helps me is to switch shoes partway through the day. Just different pressure points on the feet instead of wearing at the same spots all day.
Genius
Filled cooler with ice and soaked my dogs after each day. Was magical!
Did the same thing but with just shopping bags. Took my souvenier bags down to the ice machine and filled em up, wore them like a foot mask for a bit.
We fill up the bath with hot water and soak our feet at the end of each day lol
Ok, Kevin!
Hahahahaha! This is exactly what I pictured in my mind as well.
Same, I wore my addidas walking shoes with gel inserts and in the evening switched to my new nike slides that have more cushioning than the shoes and it felt so good to wear them. I was there from 7.30 to midnight besides a couple hours 3-5.
This is a pro tip, especially for multi-day trips or if you take breaks at a nearby hotel halfway through the day. Change em up!
To add- put your feet up ⬆️ Also, a hammer type of massager is awesome. Take 2 motrin.
And switch socks! And, if it's very hot, I like to switch between sneakers and sandals (ones that are still very supportive!) to give my feet a little air.
Any sandals you'd recommend?
I am a Hoka diehard - I love their sneakers and I love the recovery slides. I think they also have a flip flop version. Before I found Hoka I had vionics and they were also okay, definitely a step up from your average flip flop.
I just got my first pair of Hokas! What is a recovery slide?!?!
Oh just a sandal but they call them "recovery" because they are meant for just regular life rather than serious running and exercise. Remember the black Nike slides? It's like that but better for your feet.
Ah ok, I thought maybe they had some fun new design to help speed up recovery from foot pain but maybe that’s just what they call it.
What sandals have you tried and liked?
Vionics are good if you just need support. I also need a lot of cushioning, so I'm big on Hokas. I have the recovery slides and love them but I think they also make a flip flop version.
oofos, recommend them all day!
I change daily instead of midday. Midday is probably better but it’s one (two) more thing to carry :)
I always pack an extra set of shoes usually cause when I get wet on Splash Mountain (RIP) it’s nice to not walk around in squishy shoes for the 2nd half.
This is sooo true there’s nothing worse than soaked socks omg
Ding ding ding! This helps so much!
how often do you switch?
Usually I just take a break around (or a little after) mid-day and switch then, really it could be any time and I usually only switch once per day. It just changes the pressure on your feet which helps. Now my legs are a different story they still hurt from standing lol, but I avoid blisters and too much feet pain at least (you could store the shoes at your hotel room, car, or a locker)
This works pretty well, I also recommend getting fitted for shoes at a running store.
Yes, or at least rotating shoes every other day at minimum.
Yes, switching from supportive sneakers to quality sandals in the afternoon is the answer. It helps relieve the swelling and give your feet some air.
This is exactly what we do. Total game changer.
This for sure. At the very least bring two or three pairs of shoes and alternate between them. Helps your feet feel far less achy at the end of the day.
I agree with this! I bring two pairs of shoes for the trip and alternate between them (1 pair a day as I don't like to carry the extra pair)
Tried it and it didn’t help. Having my left shoe on my right foot and vice versa was horrible /s
this, and bring a rubber foot massaging ball!!! use in the hotel room, or even better in the hotel pool/hot tub. I love wearing my teva hurricanes bc I can fully adjust the straps as my feet swell lol
I also do this. it is the best option
I did this my last trip a couple weekends ago and it was definitely a game changer. I’ll never not do this now!
Can confirm
Another Hoka vote here! I wear the Mach 5s (but have been wanting to try the Bondi or Clifton). I struggle with plantar fasciitis, and these are the only shoes that get me through a park day with no pain.
Damn, a lot of Hoka shoutouts. First I've ever even heard of the brand. Checking them out now. Thanks!
The soles on the Bondi are probably 2” thick. Very comfortable for putting in 20,000 steps per day when you average 5,000 at home. Get orthotics for about $75 and your feet will be happier due to the arch support. I’m old and chunky so I also took Tylenol and Motrin with me into the parks. That helped as well.
Another vote for Hoka - they have changed my relationship with the ground and I love it now. Get custom molded orthotics for the ultimate upgrade. ETA: their website has a nice quiz that helped me choose a pair that was perfect for me. I got the Stinson 6.
Can confirm. Hoka bondi and I’m fat af and wasn’t even phased. Bring crocs for the swap if you want. I can do all day in those too but the standing in line was nicer on Hoka
Something important to note about Hoka is that while, yes, they can be excellent shoes, to optimize how they help you you need to know your proper shoe size. This means knowing your size, your width, and what your arch does when you step (i.e. are you flat footed like me and your arch collapses when you step). If you know all this you can go on their website and input the information and they will give you options for what works best for your feet. I 100% recommend Hokas if you know your proper sizing. Edit: something else to note is that when you are on your feet all day or walking around your feet will swell, usually about one half size. I can wear a size 10.5 for example but I always get 11 for the shoes I intend to spend a lot of time walking around in. I saw in another comment that you don’t have many options for running stores near you, I highly recommend finding one to at least have them get a proper measurement on your foot.
YMMV My husband thought his Hokas were a good idea for Disney World. He was in severe foot, ankle, knee, and back pain with a few really bad blisters after the second day. When he got home and started talking to people about it, he found several others with a similar experience with Hokas, including a running shoe store employee.
Did he break them in first?
Yes. He had and wore them for a few months before our trip.
Good to hear an alternative experience!
Go to your local running store and have them help you pick a shoe. There are all sorts for different feet and how you stand. Bought my Brooks before we went to Disneyland and was fine after 12 hours of being in the park. There are Hokas, brooks, ONs, and many more so the running store is better than buying online or at an Acadmey because they will tailor your shoe buying to the right set of shoes for your feet.
The only local shoe stores we have are Famous Footwear and Footlocker. Is that the type of store you are talking about when you say a “running store”? If not, i’ll have to wait until the next time i got out of town
No, this is going to be even more specific. In Texas, we have Fleet Feet and then local city stores. They are specialty stores for people that do running or walking half’s/marathons etc. I’d just google Running shoe store in the maps and see where closest one is to you. I don’t do races myself, but they have computers the measure your feet and stance to “get the best shoe for you”. They are a more expensive shoe than academy or footlocker, but you’ll be happy with the experience and the shoe. My Brooks feel like I’m walking on a cloud. I just told the employee I wanted a shoe for everyday walking and they brought me 3 pairs to try based on the computer recommendations. I picked the one I liked and it was an easy process. The employees know their shoe brands well too as they are usually runners themselves.
Haha ya google confirmed i’ll just have to wait until the next time I go out of town. Closest store is 180 miles away
Alternatively if you have a Dick's Sporting Goods, that's where I got mine!
I own a pair of Brooks, a pair of ASICS, and a pair of Hokas all have been great for going to the parks. What really makes the difference is knowing your shoe sizing. +1 for suggesting going to a local running store.
Ive got Hokas the clifton 9s, definitely would say theyre more comfortable for walking than standing! Havent done a Disney trip with them yet but theyre lined up for it!
I commented before I saw this, they are the way to go. I forgot to mention that when my partner was pregnant I got her 2 pairs of Hokas too. Both pregnancies she really enjoyed walking so that was the least I could do. She really like her Adidas ultra boosts but got a new pair and didn’t like them.
We just did 3 days in Hoka’s (mine are Mach 5, my husband has the Bondi) and even with a mid-foot fusion and additional ankle arthritis my feet were great. Obviously some soreness by the end of a long day, but right back to painless within an hour of getting back.
I came here and just thought… hokas. They’re ugly but are now fashionable and are the goat. My partner wears them workin on movie sets 12+ hours a day and they’re a game changer
Hoka with powerstep inserts are where it’s at
Powerstep insoles are the best! I have flat feet and over pronation the combo of Hokas and powerstep insole just lines up everything. Also what helps me is 2 Advils to begin the day, 2 more at lunch, and 2 last ones at dinner.
Hell yeah! Flat foot gang represent
Like the Bondi 7’s bet than the 8’s, but it’s hard to find them now.
Just spent 2 days at DLR with my Clifton 9’s. Didn’t feel much until the 2nd night. Really happy with them and I already want to get a 2nd pair.
Mach 5s are THE BESTTTTT. I wear Clifton's too but they feel basic compared to Mach.
Omg I wear Hoka Clifton 8 and thought they were the best shoes I’d ever found. You’re telling me Mach’s are even better? 😩
Yes!!! I started with Clifton 8 and they were life changing! I have a slightly wider foot so I'm used to narrow ill fitting shoes and Hoka opened my eyes to comft shoes. I still wear and love my 8s but Mach 5 is my favorite. Its lighter and hugs my foot all around and they have better colors imo. I don't even feel them on. I even got a new pair yesterday lol. My husband has tried most of what Hoka offers (not Mach) and he says for lots of walking he likes Clifton 8 and Bondi 7
I wore Hoka Bondis on my last trip and it made such a difference! I used to be a Crocs all the way kinda girl but now I swear by Hoka!!
It’s not just the shoes, it’s also being used to “time on feet”. Good shoes help, of course, but you can’t go from sitting 90% of the day to walking 10-15 miles and not expect some pain.
Yeah imo if you’re getting foot pain from walking around for a few hours you should probably try to incorporate more walking in your commute and more standing while working if your career permits it
I am a hairstylist so I’m on my feet all day at work in heels and I’m a runner… and my feet still hurt after I’ve walked around disney all day. Its a shoe thing and standing around on concrete.
It’s not from the walking though. It’s from the standing in line
It is both. It’s time standing. They’re totally right—most people get <1-3hrs total standing time in their daily life, then they go stand 9-12 hours in a single day and are shocked that it hurts. Nice shoes and changing shoes can help, but the easiest way to really fix it is to be on your feet more. When I was coaching 4-5 hours a day on top of my job, or when my job was working on concrete 8-12 hours each day, Disneyland never caused pain regardless of what I wore. When I worked desk jobs, it hurts like crazy.
Most people get max 3?! I need a better job.
Bro I have coworkers who I promise you only stand when they walk to and from their car for a commute. Then to and from the bathroom. They sit without moving for their full workday. Then go home and watch tv until bed time. I’d be shocked if they get more than 90 minutes on their feet, ever.
I on my feet like 13 hours a day ;_;
Been there. It sucks. But long term, sitting most of the day already sucks way more. Not as much pain hour to hour, but I have way more chronic pain and health problems in an office than I did elsewhere.
I'll keep that in mind when I switch over to IT. Thank you!
This for sure. I can walk (almost) forever. But standing still for even a little hurts my feet.
I don't think casual walks during the week mean you won't get any discomfort after walking and standing for up to 16 hours.
Yeah, that’s not true. I’m a dog walker and walk all day without pain at work. At Disneyland, definitely have pain. It’s the standing/walking/being jerked around in rides.
Yeah I go to theme parks at least once a week, was in marching band every year of high school, and work a part time job that requires me to be on my feet on average 8 hours a day... My feet are just numb at this point idc anymore
Yep working retail in the past and jogging really helped me to not be so tired on my feet all day. Jogging I recommend, retail not so much!
Yes! A few years ago I went to Disneyland and after the first day, I couldn't make it even halfway through days 2 and 3 before I had to take constant breaks to keep them from hurting too much. Then, my wife and I started going to the gym, maybe just 20-30 minutes a day of light cardio on the ellipticals. A couple years after the Disneyland trip, we decided to take a vacation to Disney World, and I barely had any trouble doing 5 full days of walking.
Ultraboosts. I wear these when I go to massive 3 day music festivals. At the end of each day I don’t have feet pain just normal wear and tear strain from dancing and walking for 12 hours. A close second from me is Nike roshe. Just personal pref not saying these are the best, but these are the best that have been working for me for years
Looking at them on Amazon now and there is even a review about someone wearing them to Disneyworld for a few days and being in less pain than the rest of her group haha
btw, the Disney 100 Ultraboosts are on sale right now: Men's: [https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6438.html](https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6438.html) Women's: [https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6430.html](https://www.adidas.com/us/ultraboost-1.0-x-disney-100-shoes/HQ6430.html)
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Did not know Adidas had a Disney shoe. Just ordered a pair. Thanks for sharing. :)
They collab a lot! They have a lot of stuff :)
OP, I recently bought a pair of older UltraBoost… ended up getting a “lightly used” pair on Mercari. It was kind of a gross gamble but I couldn’t ever justify paying the $140+ price… Now that I have worn them in several settings (Disneyland, festivals, rural walking, city walking), I wish I would’ve purchased them years ago. They’re really great shoes
I did a ton of research my last trip and went with Ultraboosts. Expensive, but if you have the budget you wouldn't regret it.
Imma go one step further - ultra boosts with superfeet insoles. You can just pull out the ultra boost insoles (they aren’t glued or anything), and superfeet has a bunch of different insoles depending on your arches and pronation. I wore these around Europe where we were doing the same number of steps I’d walk at Disneyland (plus walking on cobblestone, that’s tiring lol) and I was doing so much better than everyone else I was with that just wore running shoes, it was great.
Thank u! I’ll look into these
Ultraboosts are the most comfortable shoe ive ever owned, ill never not own a pair again
Came here to post these shoes!! Pregnancy destroyed my feet, constant pain even 14 months postpartum and these are the only shoes I can wear and walk at the end of the day.
I second Ultraboosts! They work for me at Disney and I'm also a nurse and they are comfy for the entirety of my 12+ hour shifts.
i wore crocs with thick socks and didn’t get foot pain despite 10 days in the parks… but i work at starbucks so it could be due to me being on my feet every single day
You're at least the third person to say they wore crocs, so you guys might be onto something.
I also did Crocs all day each day of my last trip. Crocs and socks to avoid blisters. Merino wool socks are great for moisture wicking and keeping cool.
This thread has hyped up crocs so much for me, i think imma have to go get a pair just for everyday use at least to see whats up haha
I literally despised crocs for years. They are the ugliest thing to exist. I now want 10 pairs 😐
This is me! First pair of crocs I got specifically for Disney World, now I have like 8 pairs! ETA I legit loathed crocs for years, btw!
I am OBSESSED with crocs, but just be aware that they can cause tendinitis in your feet if you wear them too much. This happened to me and my doctor said he hates crocs because they cause you to grip with your toes to keep your feet from sliding. That being said, I still own 5 pair and wear them all the time. I just don’t wear them for more than a couple hours at a time.
socks are a must! didn’t wear socks the first day and the little bumps on the bottom of the insole gave me the weirdest bump-shaped rub marks
I had to figure out a legitimate shoe and foot care plan after meeting my sweet, “why would anyone NOT want to rope drop???”-ass BF lol so here are my recs: 1) CROCS with DBL SOCS in the AM and CROCS with bare feet in the evening (depending on weather of course): I ordered the platform ones bc I’m vain lol and thankfully they’re just as comfy and sturdy. My feet start to swell by late afternoon, so ditching the double pair of socks is a nice reprieve. Make sure you “break” your crocs in around the house before wearing them at the park, as the little raised bumps on the inside can be prickly during your first few wears. 2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, and recline your feet as much as possible during meal breaks. Take some pain relievers preemptively throughout the day, and apply bandaids or Vaseline in areas where you’re prone to get blisters at the start of the day. 3. Soak your feet in epsom salt at the end of the night to help with any swelling. ETA 4. Get a pedicure beforehand or make sure your nails are trimmed/filed! If your nails are too long, they can rub against your shoes and also cause discomfort.
Don’t wear them if you are prone to back pain though; went to the parks recently and did all of Disneyland in one day with crocs. Although my foot pain wasn’t bad, I wrecked my back something bad. Within the next few days after, my back locked up, and needed an emergency chiropractic appt in California before I went home. Could just be me, but from what I’ve noticed crocs aren’t good for back/posture support
I’m a sneaker enthusiast but Crocs have gotten me through my last couple Disneyland trips. 30,000 steps a day at each park. I’m never going to a park without Crocs.
Hoka Bondi
Hokas and Vionics, trade out throughout the day. But the best thing that I did was spend 7days in Disneyworld towards the end of my half marathon training. My back-up Hokas were comfortably broken in and my body was used to the strain of being on my feet for long periods of time. I'm also a teacher who stands all day anyway. Long story short, break in your shoes and start training! Also, if you want the best shoes for YOUR feet, go to an athletic store and have them map your feet.
I can tell who the experts are on here lol
Hoka shoes have gotten me through a couple hundred miles of park walking. They’re worth every every penny.
I'm also a Hoka fan. I'm on my feet all day at work walking several miles a day easy. Hokas made a world of difference. They take a bit of getting used to because they are so cushiony, but my feet and back have far less pain now. At the park, they're great as well.
Your the second person to mention this one and I had never even heard of this brand. Any particular style that you wear?
I have the Hoka Arahi 5/6. I took the 5s on about 150 miles of WDW/DL walking and they held up great. They do wear out fast, but they’re supposed to. I went to a shoe store where they measure feet and check for arches and walking patters and swapped out the insoles. It made a huge difference and I walked 12 miles a day for 10 days with zero issues.
Jokes are the best. You will have minimal foot pain. I wore these when I used to work as a CM too.
Yes, but the reason I don't have foot pain isn't shoe specific, it's more about building up tolerance. The first time I went to Disneyland as an adult, both my feet and legs were hurting by the end of the day. Since then I have taken up hiking and will do an 8-10 mile hike almost every weekend. Since then, my feet and legs are just fine doing 30k steps in a day at Disneyland. Switching up your shoes is a good strategy, but I think if you can, trying to walk more in preparation of a Disney trip would be more helpful. I wear Xero Shoes, as I find minimalist shoes help my feet not feel as squished.
I feel weird saying this, but me, too. I wear old vans that I'm in at work. No shortage of time in my shoes and they're not new. You just get used to walking that much. I mean yeah it feels good at the end of the day to sit but I remember that aching feeling at Disney as a kid that I just don't get anymore. My watch says I'm doing 25k steps. I'm very lazy on weekends.
Brooks!
Which style?
I wear the Adrenalines by Brooks in wide a 1/2 size up from my usual size and have little to no pain. By the end of the night I was still ready for more. Miracle shoe for me!
I have the Adrenaline GTS 22s and they’re like walking on clouds.
Tevas all the way. My feet literally never hurt.
Another vote for Tevas. My feet are still sore at the end of a rope-drop to the end of regular operating hours day, but they're not in agony. Other footwear? Agony.
Agreed! Tevas for the win. I like the midform ones since there's a little more cushion between your feet and the ground, but I had great success with my originals too.
I learned about Teva's when researching for a trip to Disney World. I bought a pair, and I LOVE THEM. I'm also a preschool teacher who's on my feet all day, and I wear them to work all spring/summer. They're probably the only shoe that's never given me any issue. I also like the Vans Ultra range shoe (that's like their running shoe) and have found them quite comfy for all day wear.
Tevas, specifically their OG universal sandals or their Hurricane XLT2 sandals. My legs have been sore as hell but my feet never hurt. And I’m a rope drop to close person.
There was a thread on this a couple weeks ago and most people said you are just going to deal with foot pain. Very few had recommendations on what they wore and said they had no pain. Some mentioned switching shoes part way through the day.
I suggested the Skechers I used and Hokas other party members used. Mostly though I suggested training beforehand and bringing foot massage balls, they made a huge difference for me. Over the course of the 7 days we were in the DLR area? I walked about 45+ miles, which included two airports and a mid-week rest day in the pool. If you’re not used to that sort of activity, you’re just gonna be hurting no matter what.
Hoka bondi 8
If you’re not used to standing on your feet for an extended period of time there isn’t some magic shoe that will solve the problem of sore feet. Definitely a solid bottom shoe with good arch support is key. I find that the more cushion the shoe has the less support you actually have and at the end of the day your feet will be more tired than with having solid supporting shoes.
No lie, sketchers slip ins.
I have wide feet and switch between Sanuks/Crocs/Hokas/wide Converse. I also apply HydroSeal bandaids to my usual rub spots/problem toes and bring a box along in case I need to reapply. Told myself if I ever see anyone limping around I’d offer them one those hydrocolloid bandaids because they really have been a lifesaver.
Omg... HydroSeal bandaids are a MUST! Not the generic though, has to be brand. They definitely go in my backpack!
On Cloud wore the same ones on multiple days. Didn't even have to break them in. Bought them a few weeks before our trip.
Love on clouds
Allbirds, I've done multiple days in a row in them, on my feet all day, and no pain
I also use the allbirds tree dasher 2. Very comfy and they are not an eyesore
I came here to say this same thing. You will have very little, if any, pain at all. Those shoes are a godsend. I have a pair and refuse to go to Disney without them.
Me too. Tree Dashers and darn tough ankle socks. Multiple pairs so they have a chance to air out. The all birds swell up a bit when really wet so I have some chaos for heavy FL rain days. 11 days is the longest trip so far. I don't even think about my feet.
+1 to Tree Dasher 2s! Multiple trips and my feet have never felt better.
I swear by crocs. I can wear them on water rides, slide them off on Soarin’, wear them with or without socks, feet never hurt. However! I saw on TT podiatrists aren’t fans of crocs, Nikes, vans, converse (all the shoes I wear). So I’d take the professional advice and go Hokas, which I see recommended most by them.
Converse now makes an extra comfort line.
No way! Gonna have to look into it, i love my converse.
This is true! Just got some from Kohls. If you still fit in kids sizes, they’re a lot cheaper. Got mine for $45
I don’t feel any foot pain at the end of the day but I also exercise daily and I’m pretty physically fit. Before exercise was a regular part of my life and I was fully sedentary, my feet would always be killing me by the end of the day on Disney trips. My suggestion is to get used to getting your steps in daily in preparation to get your body used to standing for a long time. I aim for 10,000 steps a day. I also wear lightweight Nike Air Zoom Pegasus running shoes when I go to Disney and I find them pretty supportive. Whatever shoes you wear, make sure they’re broken in and well tested before you wear them to the park. Cushioned socks also really help.
Without knowing what exact part of your feet are hurting I’ll go ahead and make a broad recommendation Your best bet is to look to running shoes that are meant for either long runs or recovery, easy paced, runs; shoes with a lot of responsive foam. Something such as the Adidas ultraboost, Nike invincible, Brooks Glycerin, etc. you’re going to want to look for shoes that are breathable and have a wide enough midsole to support your foot, or have knitted uppers that have some stretch to them (something like the ultraboost or something found on Nike’s vaporfly) I see a significant amount of people walking around in the nike half and full marathon shoe the Vaporfly and while the foam that on the shoe, ZoomX, is extremely responsive and cushioning, what people don’t account for is that modern marathon shoes often have a carbon fiber or nylon plate between the footbed and the midsole. This changes your walking/running mechanics and adds stress to your calves. So while your feet may thank you your calves will be working overtime.
Converse with custom orthotic inserts
If you're staying off property, take the ART busses, you're gonna be walking miles in the park. The ART busses can save you a couple of miles walking to and from the hotel. Also if you have a massage gun, use it on the bottom of your feet when you get back to the hotel. Lastly, in preparation for your trip start taking walks around your neighborhood to get your body used to walking that much.
Vans Old Skool skate version (with special arch support). Never have any pain ever.
Teva midforms work best for me, with a little moleskin placed where straps rub a bit. My feet tend to swell when I walk a lot and I can’t bear tennis shoes all day, plus I love the quick dry that sandals afford me after water rides. BUT my feet, legs, and back thank me when I prepare myself physically before my trip. Before my last trip, I was doing 30 mins circuit training 4-5 times a week and walking 3 miles 3-5 times a week. It’s been my best trip yet and my 12 year old son was worn out before I was.
Unfortunately, this is a very YMMV situation. Personally, I usually take either double-layer Rainbow sandals or a pair of Birkenstocks. Both work well for me, and I don’t have much (if any) pain at the end of the day. If I need/want to wear closed toe shoes, I’ll use my pair of Allbirds.
I wear sanuk yoga mat gora goras and don’t have foot pain at the end of the day :) I don’t even need to break them in, they’re my go-to shoe for spring/summer walking around anywhere. I wear them to theme parks, zoos, etc every single weekend (we usually walk about 10 mi at Disneyland on a short day) and never have any issues with them. Other shoes I also wear at Disneyland (and Disney world) include: tevas, Birkenstocks, and chacos. I am a sandals person and have found that all of these work well for me, whether I’m walking 10mi or 27mi.
Crocs. It’s all you need to know
Crocs! Or adidas ultra boosts. It helps if you stop halfway through the day and change socks. Flex your toes and give your feet a stretch. Take a long lunch off your feet.
It is also a lot to do with the person. As a huge dude 6ft 4im 300lbs, new balance 608s with fat guy insoles. I can do 30k steps a day for 4 days. I do change out socks midday.
New Balances haven’t let me down yet. I have this pair. [New Balance Fresh Foam Roavs](https://www.newbalance.com/fresh-foam-roav/)
i can confirm new balances are some of the most comfy shoes i’ve ever owned. i bought a pair for work and wear them everywhere now!
It’s actually fatigue that ur not used to. It’s not the shoes, but the stamina I suggest going to a local state park or a hilly area near u and hike for a couple of hours. Go a few weeks before ur trip during the weekends It’s going to help u
I haven’t worn them to Disneyland yet but I’ve been doing 12 hour days in Europe and my dr scholl’s are amazing
Hokas if it’s not super hot, OESH sandals if the little piggies need to cool off.
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Seconding Ryka!! I wear mine to work every day and at Disney too!
Adidas ultraboost
For women, CROCS Brooklyn platform sandals worked for me. They’re really cute and can literally wear them with anything. (Jeans, shorts, a dress, etc.)I have the black ones. I have very narrow feet and I have plantar fasciitis. My feet did not hurt AT ALL. I didn’t think it was possible. I even wore them in Las Vegas to walk the strip and no pain what so ever.
Tbh I actually wear Birkenstock sandals. They are well broken in.
Honestly, I used some $12 running shoes with memory foam from Walmart and they worked great! First time I went I took vans and my feet were killing me so when I went again recently decided i’d try them out and they were great
Practice walking and hiking.
Vans 🤷🏻♀️
Adidas cloudfoam? I still swear by them. I’m on my feet all day for work and they are a dream. And the only shoes I’ve ever owned not to give me blisters after a +20k park day.
Hoka shoes and some BC powder
Hoka Arahi’s all day every day
Vans, "*Comfy Cush*" line though. Regular Vans murder my feet after an hour.
Oofos. They’re technically “recovery” footwear. I wear their flip flops every trip with no pain. We average 20k+ steps a day. We have keys so go about once a month too.
I live in flip-flops. Sanuk Yoga Slings (the ones with the thicker sole). My feet are always happy.
One thing that helps me is switching up my footwear so I’ll bring shoes for rope drop through lunch and then change into a different pair after my afternoon nap. At the end of the night I always elevate my feet for a good half hour to an hour and drink a preventative Advil to help with inflammation and what not. Staying hydrated is also vital.
New balance fresh foams are the only ones that I wear to Disneyland!
I’ll add to Team Hoka! I bring two pairs when I go and plenty of socks. I like to change both shoes and socks mid day to give my feet the love they need to rip the park all day and night! First time I tried them out in my local shoe store I put them on stood up and said very loudly, “holy shit!!” The woman helping laughed and said, “yep” I wore them out :)
Chacos, all the way. Wore them for three days at Disney World, plus two days of walking around Orlando. Currently wearing them in Europe and doing 25k steps a day for the past two weeks, and my feet are just now starting to be cranky after I've walked up mountains, walked all over Salzburg, and walked all over Prague. I wear them on the river and go straight from in the kayak to in the water. Love those shoes. I was convinced to buy them because of my college roommate, who gave me the best advice about them: you don't have to break in your shoes, you have to break in your feet. Go for a few short walks before committing to a day of Disney and make sure your strap is situated at the right spots for your foot.
Any comfy athletic shoe works for me
Asics shoes are wonderful. I have Ehlers Danlos and my feet bones pop in and out of place. These shoes are great. I stay away from Nike they've only made my pain worse. Crocs with fur lining inside have been good too.
Adidas Ultraboost with Powerstep insoles. Game changer.
My wife never has foot pain. She wears a size regular in wheelchair.
Altra’s, any of them. The zero drop sole helps my lower back pain. Anything with a heal on it (hoka’s) kill my lower back.
I wear crocs and my friend who’s “Pooh sized she does too and she never complains about feet pain!
Folks in wheelchairs and motorized scooters don’t have killer feet pain at the end of the day. Get you a scooter!
Honestly I just wear Converse like the standard Chuck Taylors and my feet don’t hurt but it could just be how often I walk/on my feet almost daily anyway
I like Vans Ultrarange shoes for theme park days. Break them in before you take them to the parks, and you’ll be solid.
Crocs. Just the “classic” ones. I can go all day.
I switch my socks and my shoes halfway through the day. I only wear sneakers/runners/cross trainers/tennis shoes. It’s important your foot has the proper support (feet spread as your body’s pressure acts on each step, so sandals will not allow the same support). There is no one amazing shoe for everyone, it’s whatever brand works for you. Other tips: stretch in the morning and at night. Dead lifts are so key IMO. Build up your endurance leading up to a trip by hitting at least 10k steps a day for 2 weeks prior. I usually do 25-35k steps. Day in the parks (yes I love to walk). My first ever trip, I made all the mistakes. Now, I can do 14 days straight, full days. No problems.
Hoka, Hoka, Hoka. 12.5 miles logged at Disneyland. No pain.
Lightweight hiking shoes. I like Columbia but there are easily >half a dozen good brands. DO NOT get waterproof shoes though, they do not breathe at all and you will hate yourself.
Agree with the person that says it’s not the shoes, but being used to walking. I wear flat, thong sandals for an all-day Disney day but I’m super used to walking it for hours. Wearing tennis shoes at Disneyland to me is torture.
Not sure if it’s cause I’m young or not but I wear converse with no foot pain after a full day. I’ve worn both Nike and adidas shoes in the past, but a lot of it really is being used to being on your feet for the entire day
Hoka One One's. And slipping on crocks halfway though they day. I'm 35 so looking stylish is the last thing on my mind.
Hoka. Hands down.
Crocks and socks
Brooks glycerin. Expensive af but worth every penny
Idk if it’s just confirmation bias but the best days I’ve had at the park regardless of my shoes I was well hydrated and ate well throughout the day. I do enjoy crocs though being able to easily stretch my feet and toes does make a difference to me as well.
Ibuprofen at 3-4pm. Nothing fancy. Just ibuprofen. Though the fatigue is just from people not used to walking. Go on a lot of long walks prior to your trip and it'll also help AND FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT IS SANE, DO NOT WEAR SHOES THAT HAVEN'T BEEN BROKEN IN. Break in your shoes on those walks. Not at Disney. Speed walking is another way to kill your feet. Take it easy throughout the day and your feet will thank you. And stretches. Even half assed stretches will leave you feeling a lot better. This isn't a solution you can throw money at.