15 Best Shoes for Disney World in December Your Feet Will Love
Alright, so you’re planning a vacation to the most magical place on Earth, and you’re trying to decide what shoes to bring. We’ve been there. It’s a tough call—do you go with your cute new sandals, or do you pick some cute, comfortable sneakers that’ll keep your feet warm and dry throughout the trip?
We know your feet are going to be tired after a day at the parks. We recommend doing daily walks before your vacation starts to get your mind and body prepared for your trip. At Disney World, you’ll be walking almost 20,000 steps per day if not more! Some people are not used to walking this much in their daily lives and it can get overwhelming when you’re on vacation.
If you’re standing in line for hours and walking back and forth between restaurants and rides all day, you might want to consider wearing comfortable shoes.
What to Look For in a Good Shoe
But how do you determine what the best shoes for Disney World are? How exactly do you quantify that?
Well, if you’re like us, you’ll want a good pair of shoes with strong arch support (especially if you’re flat footed—you don’t want to deal with plantar fasciitis at Disney World), waterproof materials, or cushioned insoles that can help reduce foot fatigue from all that walking.
Prepare for Lots of Walking at Disney World
Some people take a week or two off of work before their vacation starts so they can prepare their bodies to expect all the walking they’ll have to do while they’re there. You’ll have to decide which rides are worth the wait based on how long the lines are, you could be standing in a queue line anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours!
You also have to be prepared to meet characters around the park or do scavenger hunts if you have kids or teenagers with you. It’s important to factor in things that you may not have planned for during your vacation!
Think about which parks you’re going to during your vacation and pick your shoes based on the month of your planned trip. Summer months are normally hotter and prone to rainy weather; fall and winter weather could be hit with a light rainy drizzle and cloudy skies; spring months can be wet or dry; it all depends on when you’re going!
By matching your shoes to the weather, you’ll have a fun time without getting stuck in the rain without appropriate shoes or being too cold in sandals. This is where we come in to help!
It’ll probably be very hot outside and you’re going to be doing a lot of walking—a lot! And while we all know that Mickey Mouse likes to keep his shoes nice and comfy, we deserve that too. Your feet will be tired before you even make it past Cinderella’s castle. If this is your first time here, it could be very overwhelming! There are hundreds if not thousands of things to do, see, and experience.
Trust me, you won’t be able to get them all done in one day. Your shoes will have walked a thousand miles before you see every single thing in Disney World.
How Much Walking Will I Do at Disney?
The sheer size of Disney World is hard to fathom, but it’s also hard to accurately convey, as there are so many different factors that contribute to its grandeur.
Disney World consists of four theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. There’s also two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, a shopping center called Disney Springs and three golf courses.
But, while those things are all pretty great, you might be surprised to learn that Disney World is actually a lot bigger than just the theme parks. In fact, Disney World is so big that it’s almost impossible to describe it all in one go. But let’s try anyway!
As for how big Disney World really is? It spans an incredible 107 square kilometers (slightly more than 40 square miles)!
Disney World is about the same size as San Francisco; the 40-square-mile tourist destination is about 10 square miles smaller than the city of San Francisco. For comparison, California’s Disneyland Resort is just 85 acres or 0.13 square miles. That seems crazy when you put it into perspective!
So, we just got done talking about how massive the park is, so you already know this is going to be a big trip. So are you ready to start planning?
The Best Shoes for Disney World
Here are some of our top picks for best shoes for Disney World in December:
1) Tevas – Original Universal
The Original Universal sandal is not only a performance sandal designed to wear all day but also a lifestyle shoe that matches your mood and style. Created with Teva’s proprietary waterproof material, this remake of the classic flip flop gives you a breathable, comfortable all-day sport sandal and can be worn in or out of the water.
This sandal fits snugly around the heel and arch of your foot. The quick-dry material made from recycled plastic will keep your feet looking and feeling great no matter how long you’re on your feet or what activities you participate in. Choose from a variety of colors and make Tevas your own! People rave about this fun, adjustable sandal’s all-day comfort and waterproof, quick-dry materials. The rubber-like sole is flexible, durable and can be worn just about anywhere!
2) Birkenstock – Arizona
The Arizona sandal is designed to absorb and disperse pressure, crafted with classic Birkenstock details: a deep heel cup, adjustable strap carrier (fits both mid and high insteps), and the renowned contoured footbed. This sandal is made out of EVA material that makes it waterproof with all of the same lightweight and shock absorbing qualities! Bring style to your world and make “going shoeless” a possibility.
Made from a very soft suede and cork material, the latex and engineered sole move with your feet for a flexible fit all day long. The contoured footbed cradles your foot for lasting comfort, support and shock-resistance, while the anatomically correct toe area keeps you balanced as you go. The sole lining absorbs moisture from perspiration and helps keep feet dry and the rubberized toe cap resists wear.
3) Nike – Infinity Run Flyknit 2
The Nike Flyknit Women’s Running Shoes lets you move with both agility and support. It gives you a barefoot-like feel to help you run in a more natural way while giving your feet the comfort they need to run longer distances faster.
The seamless upper combined with Flyknit technology delivers a customized fit and allows natural motion of the foot. This shoe is lightweight and flexible enough to wear on your longest runs.
4) Adidas – Terrex Voyager 21 Canvas Travel Shoes
When traveling, the last thing you want to worry about is lugging around bulky shoes. With this elasticized, packable shoe from Adidas Originals, you can take a pair of comfortable sneakers with you whenever you travel.
Fitted with bungee laces for easy on-and-off and a comfortable EVA insole for great cushioning, this pair of shoes won’t strain your back or legs when it’s time to start walking.
5) Skechers – Summits
This functional sneaker is a great choice for activities ranging from walking on pavement to running. These lightweight slip-on shoes provide extreme shock absorption and stability with Memory Foam insoles and are perfect for everyday wear.
The bungee laced front lets you leave the laces behind, while the low heel collar ensures your feet won’t slide forward in your shoe during long walks. The rubber soles provide extra flexibility and durability over time so you can enjoy maximum support with every step you take.
These sneakers are a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable pair of shoes that will keep up with your active lifestyle!
6) Crocs – Classic Clog
Step out in style and comfort with these signature shoes this summer! Our signature crocs can be worn to the park, pool, boat ride, or out to eat! These shoes are easy to clean, and lightweight. No need to pack a pair of shoes for water rides nor walking through the parks. You will be cool and comfortable while wearing these classic looking shoes.
These clogs are durable, comfortable, and fashionable. They instantly become your favorite shoes to wear in Disney World. To keep your feet cool, the clogs have perforations on the top that allow air and water to flow through.
The shoes themselves are lightweight and buoyant and do not add much weight to your suitcase when traveling. If you get caught in a rain shower, these shoes will easily air dry and keep your feel comfortable for the rest of the day!
7) Havaianas – Top Flip Flops
Tired of running to the drugstore right before your trip for flip-flops? Pick up a pair of Havaianas! The thong style is perfect for pool days, summer fun and water activities. The classic and monochrome colors are complimenting to any outfit, lifestyle, or personality.
This classic pair of flip flops can be worn with anything from short shorts and bikinis to jeans and sundresses; these sandals are essential for anyone’s summer wardrobe. Made with a strong but flexible rubber sole and featuring a classic, monochrome thong design, the world’s most popular sandal is key for summertime activities.
8) Converse – Chuck Taylor All Star
The classic converse sneakers are a great option for any age group. With their rubber sole and canvas design, they are extremely flexible and comfortable.
The best part is you can customize them in an array of colors and styles. The shoe’s rubber sole provides support for long walks around the park!
9) Keds – Women’s Kickstart Leather
Add this classic sneaker, known for its comfort, to your wardrobe. It will be your essential tennis shoe that you’ll use time and time again. The Keds shoe laces are designed to keep the perfect amount of tightness while offering flexibility.
The white leather material is easily cleanable in case there are any spills. The cushioned footbed for extra support and has a breathable lining. You’ll also love how comfortable these shoes are and how stylish they make your feet look. The price is reasonable for such a wide variety of colors!
10) Olukai – Pehuea Li
The Olukai Pehuea is the best pair of sneakers to own if you are worried about getting blisters from walking so much! These sneakers have something called a “drop-in heel” meaning they go from sneakers to slides! If your back heel is getting uncomfortable throughout the day or maybe you’re getting a blister, just drop off the back panel for instant relief.
The upper part of the sneaker is made from a mesh lining which is extremely breathable and provides ultimate comfort. The sole of this sneaker has extra cushioning to ensure all day comfort. If you are looking for a lightweight, breathable, durable, and versatile sneaker check these ones out!
11) Under Armor – Women’s UA Charged Impulse 2 Running Shoes
The Under Armour Running shoes are built to reduce foot pain. The lightweight material and flexible design help prevent injuries while the outsole provides stability and balance when walking through the parks for hours on end.
The design envelops your foot while still providing breathability to keep your feet cool after hours of running around the parks.
12) New Balance – Made in USA 990v5
The Made in USA 990v 5 is a classic shoe that will never go out of style and will always provide comfort. The foot bed molds to the natural shape of your foot with repeated wear, making it one of the most comfortable lifestyle shoes available for men and women. The outer material is highly breathable and will withstand long distance walking as well as being durable and preventing any tears.
Another feature of these shoes is they have a firm outsole that provides excellent traction, support, and much needed shock absorption. Many customers who have tried this shoe rave about the comfort and how it holds up to all day walking.
13) Merrell – Bravada Waterproof
The Bravada sandals from Merrell weigh less than two pounds, making them the perfect shoe for long days of walking in the Disney parks. The patented cushion system and reliable outsole allow these shoes to cushion the foot without causing extra shock or strain. Their waterproof barrier keeps moisture from soaking into the shoe and helps keep your feet dry while you’re on your favorite water rides!
With excellent traction, you can walk for hours in these shoes and feel stable. Choosing a shoe with a waterproof barrier will ensure that you will be protected in a variety of weather situations.
14) Keens Sandals – Women’s Whisper
These Keen sandals will carry you through anything! The Whisper sandals have a bungee lace system that can be latched in place, so no more stopping to retie your shoes. The insoles are designed to cradle the contours of your foot and provide ultimate comfort during long walks through the parks or through puddles at the splash pad.
They have a pre-molded foot bed that is designed to keep your feet comfortable and supported throughout the day. They also feature a quick dry fabric insole lining should you get them wet during bad weather or going on your favorite water rides. Not only are they water ready, they’re also machine washable!
When you get home from your Disney adventure just throw them in the washing machine. Customers have stated that they’ve had these sandals over 6 years!
15) Vans – Suede Tri-Lock
To make your dream vacation complete, pack your favorite style shoes! Whether you are visiting the parks on a Disney World vacation or walking around the shopping area, these comfortable sandals ensure that you can always have a pair of shoes handy.
The Suede Tri-Lock sandals have a quick dry material that is perfect for water rides and pools. The synthetic straps allow you to adjust the shoes until they are just the right fit, and the sole material is incredibly light and supportive, making them the perfect choice for your vacation.
Well, there we have it…our choices of the top 15 best shoes for Disney World that your feet will love!
All of those tips should make your trip a little better and a bit more enjoyable. You don’t want to spend your time at Disney World trying to find cute shoes or running around after an injury that could have been easily avoided. And, most importantly, you don’t want to spend your money on something that is going to be uncomfortable or impractical for your trip. Buy good shoes and wear sensible clothing so you can really enjoy yourself!
These shoes will help your adventures and new memories to be created just like my family members and I did at these parks. One or two of these tips could save you time, stress, and even money. Whichever you choose, these shoes will make your vacation a magical memory maker!
The best thing to do is always have a backup pair of shoes in your bag. Having an extra pair of sandals or sneakers is never a bad idea, but if your shoes get soaked by water rides or somehow broken on your trip, you don’t want to be stuck without something else to wear! If you do run into problems like blisters or wet socks, it’s good to have another pair of shoes in your backpack that are ready to go.
If your feet start hurting while you’re on the road, don’t ignore it! Blisters can form quickly and ruin not only your day but also the rest of your trip. Having a replacement pair could mean the difference between an uncomfortable end to your trip and being able to enjoy every minute you have left.
You wouldn’t go to the beach without sunscreen, or hang out in a tanning bed for hours on end, so why would you wear uncomfortable high heels to the happiest place on Earth? I guess it is a toss up between being fashionable and having comfort.
Nowadays, we tend to be fashion conscious and are willing to sacrifice our comfort in order to look good and feel like we fit the mold of society but it doesn’t make sense if you are going to have a long, stressful day that could potentially end up in pain.
You owe it to yourself and your feet to invest in something you can walk 10 miles or more per day comfortable in without hurting yourself. Take my advice as someone who has visited Disney World several times and walked 10 or more miles back and forth, you will find yourself with tired feet if you don’t wear the right shoes.
I hope this guide was helpful. Good luck on your next Disney vacation!
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