Want to know what are the best shoes for Disney? Check out the must-have shoes that will help you get through a long day at the Disney Parks!

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The average steps taken at Walt Disney World can range from 15,000 to 30,000 depending on how many attractions you do, where your resort is, what kind of transportation you use, etc.  That’s 7.5 to 15 miles per day!

7 Best Shoes for Disney

Considering the average American walks 3,000 to 4,000 steps per day, it’s best to consider your upcoming trip to Walt Disney World (WDW) an athletic event you need to train and prepare for.  And what is the most important piece of equipment you need to have for that type of walking? Comfortable shoes!

This blog is all about the best shoes for Disney- and what to consider when choosing shoes including weather, arch support, comfort, and more!

Shoes can make or break a long day at the Disney parks.  We’ll start with some important questions and in the following section check out my 7 top recommendations for shoes for Disney:

1) What time of the year are you traveling?

Winter is not really winter in Florida (I spent the first 23 years of my life in Florida and did not own any coats, the boots were just for fashion).  It does occasionally drop below 60, but sneakers and a good pair of socks should do the trick in winter. 

The problem is, it’s a rainy state, even in the winter, and wet sneakers are never fun.  So, packing an alternate style of shoe for those rainy days is key too.  When the forecast calls for rain, I would recommend Crocs (eye roll, I know, but they are my go-to brand for long days on my feet and are waterproof).  I also love Native shoes.

Both Crocs and Native shoes make cute styles these days, well at least cuter than the classic version, and even have waterproof sneakers! Here are some that I love:

Rain, rain go away!

The rain does tend to be less oppressive during the months of April to May and October to November but there are no guarantees.  So it’s best to always be prepared for a good soak. 

These months, and the surrounding spring and fall months, tend to be a bit hotter, with temperatures averaging between between 60 and 87F.  So if you are traveling in these months bring a pair of shoes you can wear socks with, and a pair of shoes for a hot day. 

I wear flip flops (like Oofos, Fit Flops, or Crocs) the majority of my days at the parks, but also alternate with Toms classics.  Toms are light and portable and easy to pack in your park bag as an alternative pair of shoes.

Summertime at Disney World

And, ah, the summer time! Get ready to feel like you have entered your own personal sauna 24/7.  There is a reason Florida’s population was so low prior to the invention of air conditioning!

Flip flops can be an option if you find them comfortable, and waterproof types are recommended.  Additionally, many swear by Teva’s sandals, which were originally made for water seeking adventurers.  I have worn them on summer hikes in Colorado and have been very comfortable both hiking and splashing through the creeks and streams. 

2) What type of arch do you have? 

If you have a high arch then Crocs might not be your friend on a high mileage day, but if you have flat feet they might be just the shoe for you.  People with high arches may prefer sneakers from companies like New Balance, sandals from Chacos or Teva, or slip on sandals/flip flops from Birkenstock or Reef.

You can even add arch support to a comfy and packable shoe like Toms or Sketchers.

3) Are you packing light or bringing a big suitcase?

My family travels lean- all of us pack a backpack so we can be on and off the plane in less time.  This also helps us if we do a split stay i/e if we have to change hotels. 

If you are packing light then you need to be very selective to save space.  I recommend wearing your bulkiest shoe on the plane- like a practical yet fun sneaker, and packing a sandal or flip flop and a canvas-type shoe.  If you are a more luxurious traveler then you have more options, so consider your planned outfits and match accordingly per the recommendations above!

 

Next, let’s check out the goods- what actual shoes have been tried and tested in the parks! Many of these I have worn, or my family, but also I have curated a list based on other seasoned park goers observations and recommendations.

Best Shoes for Disney

1. New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi– great for high arches, lightweight, good for wide feet, and great for taking pressure off your knees. 
2. Toms Alpargata– I can swear by these for lean packing and as alternate shoe.  I fell in love with their Disney line and have the Seven Dwarfs style but they don’t make them anymore.  Toms are comfy for a night out, great to throw in your park bag, or wear around your resort.
3. Crocs Capri Flip– I have worn many Crocs flip flops on a long park day and they all have served me well, but some of them don’t have enough cushion or support.  However, the Capris, Athens and LiteRide styles have great support, and can be worn with shorts, dresses, pants, skirts…really anything you pack.
4. Teva’s Hurricanes- these are great for hot, wet days, and are well worth the price tag.  Be sure, as with all of the above shoes, to wear them before your vacation, to be sure they are broken in and comfortable.  With Teva’s and Chaco’s type sandals you will want to adjust the velcro straps to your particular foot, and try those settings out to avoid any future blisters.
5. Mickey Mouse Native shoes– you know I had to throw in a Disney themed shoe right?  Native Shoes are comfy, waterproof and come in cute Disney styles, as do Crocs classic shoes.  Practical and well themed!
6. Skechers Performance– this line comes in Mens and Womens styles and all are great- comfortable, lightweight, packable, and run-able- perfect for trying to catch a bus or racing your kids to the next attraction.  
7. Oofos- if you are flip flop lover like me these are so worth the money! Super supportive and great for the summer months at Disney!

Break in your shoes for Disney

 

 

Remember to wear any new shoes for at least one month prior to wearing them on a big Walt Disney World trip- your feet will thank you! For info on blister care or prevention, and more first aid type tips, check out this blog.

Are there any shoes that you always pack on your WDW trips that are not on this list? I would love to hear about them- please leave a comment/recommendation down below! 

This blog was all about the best shoes for Disney, types, weather, arch support, rainy days, and more!

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