Keep Your Feet Happy

costo.com

            The first time I travelled abroad, my mom was freaking out about my packing choices. All I heard was how this dress was too short, that shirt would be too hot, and those shoes would hurt my feet. Like any teenager, I generally ignored her and packed what I wanted. I didn’t want to look like some lost American tourist in a fanny pack and clunky sneakers. I wanted to be comfortable but still look somewhat fashionable (the stereotypical, excepted concerns of a teenage girl). I rolled my eyes but let her pack Band-Aids and Neosporin for me if I got blisters.

           

shoestation.com

            A few weeks before I was set to leave, we sat down and scoured the Internet for shoes that would satisfy her rules for practicality and my wishes for good aesthetics. We finally decided on a pair of leather flip-flops that were designed for people walking long distances. They were marketed as ideal for travel, and guaranteed no blisters. And I hated them. I wore them, sure, but most of the time I ended up slipping on shoes I actually liked and was more comfortable in. I knew shoes I had already broken in would keep me happier than new, stiff, leather sandals. But my mother was worried, and didn’t want me to run into any problems my first time travelling on my own – for that I’m grateful because I thankfully avoided suffering feet the whole trip. My one friend wasn’t so lucky, and wore new sandals the second day in Germany. She had horrible blisters for the rest of the trip, and hadn’t anticipated getting them. I was grateful my mom had the foresight to pack me a little first aid kit so I could help out my friend.

toms.com

            Even though I made fun of my mom for being overly concerned, I definitely learned that it helps to be prepared – but it is also best to stick with what you know you’ll be comfortable in. You don’t want to risk being hurt after the first day of the trip – it’ll make the rest a lot less enjoyable. Overall, I was glad to have my dependable, comfortable shoes with me to keep my feet happy.  But if you’re about to travel and can’t think of any shoes that wouldn’t stress your arches, consider Tom’s shoes. They worked great for me and I still wear them around campus. I don’t want this post to turn into a huge advertisement, but they really are my favorite shoes, are great for travel, are stylish (boys can wear them too!), AND when you buy a pair, they donate a pair to needy children in struggling countries. Remember, when you’re travelling, keep your feet happy!