Views on Shoes

Sometimes people boggle my mind. I have seen people attempt Disney World wearing pumps, heels, flip-flops, sandals and all manner of odd footwear. Odd to me that is. Perhaps people really are comfortable with them and it works out well. I should start asking the next time I'm there. But I would never dare to try it myself.

I have never in ten years of going to the Parks had a blister, sore feet the next day or even really tired feet at the end of the day. So my views aren't exactly coming out of thin air. I'd like to pretend that it is my commitment to physical fitness and stamina. It isn't. I realized that during the last trip. My workout routines have become lax with a toddler and I'm no longer 23. Yet, while my shoulders were stiff from pushing a stroller, my feet and more importantly, my knees, felt no pain. Perhaps a little stiffness when I woke up, but that quickly disappeared by the time I was dressed.

This is due to my shoes. Sure, someone may feel okay the day they are at the park, but they will pay for it the next day. Arch support and cushioning are vital for escaping the hurt that the Parks tries to confer onto you. That damage is cumulative. A local going for a one day trip can get away with it...maybe. An out-of-stater like me with several days in a row cannot.

Here's the secret: quality walking shoes. Currently, I have some Reebox DMX walking shoes. They are excellent. New Balance and Nike also make some fine walking shoes. It's important that they are walking versions and not "dress sneakers", running shoes or gym shoes. I've felt the difference. They also must be properly broken in. Plan on starting six months in advance of your trip if you already walk for exercise. A year if you don't. However, two year old shoes for a frequent walker are probably too beaten down at that point to give you much help and should be replaced. Also bring new or newish socks that haven't started thinning.

I still recommend bringing along some first aid items such as ibuprofen/acetaminophen, band-aids and moleskin. However, I've always given those out to other people in my party and never used them much myself.

There's a reason the armed forces emphasizes foot care while on long marches carrying 40lb packs. A trip to Disney World isn't really any different in it's physical demands. You can expect to walk 5-10 miles at all of the Parks, except Epcot where you will walk 11-15 miles in a day. This is while carrying anything you brought in t the park, anything you purchased as well as standing for long periods of time. If you want to survive the vacation, take care of yourself, soldier!