Best Walking Shoes For Paris

Best Walking Shoes For Paris

One question I am asked a lot about Paris is what are the best walking shoes for the city. Today, I am telling you about my favorite walking shoes for Paris for each season, what to think about when packing shoes for Paris, and what shoes Parisians are wearing now.

Also, which shoes to avoid packing. If you are interested in which outfits to pack for Paris you can always check out the monthly Paris packing lists or check out 10 pieces I always pack for Paris.

First, whatever shoes you decide to pack with you, make sure they are comfortable and can handle cobblestone streets. The last thing you want to do when you get to Paris is wear a pair of shoes that aren’t comfortable, and you’ll end up with blisters by the end of day one.

Also, don’t try and break in a new pair of shoes on the streets of Paris. Ensure your shoes have been worn a few times so your feet are used to them.

Lastly, shoe comfort is different for each person, so I can tell you which shoes I think are the best walking shoes for Paris, but ultimately, that’s up to you.

These are the shoes I have packed for Fall, Spring, and Summer in Paris. Also, don’t forget things like gel insoles, moleskin padding, and band-aids.

Shoes To Pack For Paris In Fall And Winter

• Sneakers
• Ballet Flats or Loafers
• Ankle Boots
• Tall Boots
• Waterproof Boots
• Evening Shoes

Shoes To Pack For Paris In Spring And Summer

• Sneakers
• Sandals
• Ballet Flats or Loafers
• Evening Shoes
• Waterproof Boots *Early spring especially*

How Many Shoes To Pack For Paris

It is obviously up to each individual to pack as many shoes as they want, and of course, it depends on the time of year and how long you’re staying in Paris. I would recommend 2-3 pairs if you’re going for a week and a few more if you’re staying longer. Of course, there’s no better place to buy shoes than Paris if you require more.

Best Walking Shoes For Paris

Here’s my list of the best walking shoes to pack and wear in Paris broken down by category. I’ve shown the styles I have worn as well as other options.

• Ballet Flats
• Sandals
• Sneakers
• Boots
• Evening Shoes

Best Ballet Flats To Pack And Wear In Paris

Pack a pair of classic, comfortable ballet flats with cushioned soles for walking Parisian streets. Ideally, they should be in a neutral color that complements multiple outfits. Keep in mind that cobblestones call for sturdy soles and quality materials.

Other options besides ballet flats which are favorite by Parisians are Mary Janes, make sure to pack a pair you’ve worn before that you know would provide maximum comfort. I have several pairs from Sézane I like to pack for Paris.

M.Gemi Ballet Flat

The Danza from M.Gemi are incredibly comfortable due to the small wedge in the heel which helps to provide a little lift and support.

Chanel Ballet Flat (similar)

One of my ballet flat styles I always pack during the spring and summer are my Chanel ballet flats (similar option). They are comfortable, chic, and classic and can easily be dressed up or down. A two-tone ballet flat option is great when you want to wear a basic outfit but elevate it a bit.

SHOP BALLETFLATS

Loafers To Wear In Paris

One pair of shoes I always wear that can be worn during any season are loafers. This is also a shoe style you will see on all the French girls. They are incredibly comfortable, and it is easy to walk around the city during the day.

During the fall and winter seasons, Parisians wear loafers with socks to keep their feet warm. My favorite loafers are from Sézane, Madewell, and Sam Edelman. When choosing a loafer style to wear, you want to make sure you pick one that has good arch support since Paris involves a lot of walking—just something to keep in mind.

SHOP LOAFERSTYLES

Best Sandals For Walking In Paris

During the summer months, it’s highly acceptable to wear sandals walking around Paris. Of course, you still want to make sure you are wearing ones that are comfortable to walk around all day.

Hermès Oran Sandal(similar), Sézane (similar), K. Jacques St Tropez (similar)

K Jacques St Tropez

A few styles I have worn in Paris during the summer months are these K Jacques St. Tropez, which is an investment pair, but very comfortable(similar affordable pair). Lots of French women are wearing this French brand during the warmer season with their summer uniform of skirts and dresses.

Hermès Oran Sandal

I also own the Hermès Oran Sandals which are very comfortable in my opinion. For a similar style, you can try these leather sandals. Usually, I will wear these with dresses, skirts, and even jeans when in Paris.

Sèzane Sandals

During the summer months, I have worn various Sézane styles to walk around the city and they are always comfortable to me. I have also worn some of these sandals to climb up castles in Provence over cobblestone streets.

Each spring and summer, I invest in several Sézane sandals, which are always comfortable. The ones I am wearing above are currently unavailable, but there are several other options like Low Aly and Judith.

Madewell Sandals

Madewell always has a great selection of comfortable and affordable sandals to pack for Paris.

SHOP SHOES

Best Sneakers To Wear In Paris

The best sneakers for walking around Paris are the ones that suit your personal comfort level, but these are the pairs I’ve worn on past trips—tried, tested, and trusted to keep me blister-free while providing all-day support for exploring the city.

Adidas Stan Smith

There are several sneakers that Parisians are always wearing and the Stan Smith is one of them. In all the years I have been to Paris, this has never changed. You will find them being worn in the Navy or Green styles.

If Parisians are wearing them all over to walk the street then they must be good right? Personally, these are the most comfortable sneakers I have worn in Paris.

Adidas Sambas, Gazelle, or Spezial

Everyone and I mean everyone are wearing either Adidas Sambas, Gazelle, or Spezial at the moment in Paris. Besides, the Stan Smith, these are definitely the most popular sneaker at the moment. I personally don’t like the Samabas and prefer the Spezial and Stan Smith the most for walking around Paris.

VEJA V-10 Leather Sneakers

VEJA is one of the most popular sneaker brands in Paris and everyone is wearing them. There was even a line outside and around the corner to get into the store. However, not all VEJA are created equally. These V-10s are not my favorite pair to wear in Paris.

These shoes do take time to break in so you want to make sure you do that before you wear them around Paris all day. I went down a size in these and wear the same ankle socks.

VEJA Campo

Another VEJA style I have worn in Paris before are the campo style which I actually find to be more comfortable than the V-10.

New Balance

New Balance has become quite popular in Paris over the last year couple of years I have noticed during my trips there. Last spring I bought this exact pair in Navy when I was visiting.

The 574 is a great sneaker especially if you need more support to walk all day. They are easy to wear and look classic with denim and trousers.

Axel Arigato Sneakers

During our month in Paris, I bought these Axel Arigato sneakers at Le Bon Marché. I have been looking for a new pair of unique sneakers yet still comfortable enough to walk around.

The sales lady told me these are a brand all the Parisians are wearing now and since then I have actually noticed more and more Parisians with them on.

Sèzane Jack Trainer

The Jack Trainers are a great option for Paris especially during the warmer months. I took these to Paris in the Summer and walked about 25,000 plus steps a day. Not once did I get a blister or any kind of rub from these sneakers.

These trainers have a bit of a lower profile so I feel they are best worn in Paris during the Summer months. Plus, they are not as heavy as some sneakers so make it a bit easier to take them when traveling.

They are beautiful leather sneakers that I took my normal size of 6.5. These sneakers are more of a cream vs. true white but you will not regret purchasing these sneakers.

SHOP THE SHOES

Best Boots To Pack And Wear In Paris

he type of boots you pack for Paris depends on the season, waterproof boots are ideal for rainy days in fall and spring.  Ankle boots are perfect for everyday wear and pair well with both jeans and dresses. 

In colder months, opt for sleek tall boots that not only keep you warm but also elevate your look when wearing skirts or dresses.

Blondo Alida Waterproof Boot

I wore this pair of Blondo, on my last two trips to Paris in the Spring and late Fall. The bootie has a pointed toe, which always helps to elongate the legs, and a height of 2.4″, not too high and not too small.

I prefer a lower boot that fits perfectly under flare or boot-cut denim, trousers, or even tights and a skirt or dress. For this boot, I take my normal size of 6.5.

Other options for booties are these Margaux, or these Naturalizer.

Margaux Downtown Ankle Boot

A classic ankle boot with a pointed toe, these Margaux Downtown Ankle Boots, are comfortable and chic looking. Even with a 2.5-inch stacked heel, they have plush foam padding making them easy to walk around all day.

sézane adelle Ankle boots

This fall these Sézane Axelle boots were one of my most worn pair for the season. I wore them all over Paris with jeans, dresses, and trousers. A great way to add a pop of color to your outfits.

Sézane Tall Boots

During the fall and winter, you might want take a pair of tall boots to keep your legs warm. Go for a pair like these Sézane or a pair of tall waterproof boots is also a good idea.

SHOP THE BOOTS

Evening Shoes To Pack And Wear In Paris

SLINGBACKS

Slingbacks are a great option for dinners and evening events. They are comfortable, stylish, and elevate an outfit. If you are looking for a slingback with a strap that can be adjusted try these from Margaux.

Sézane Gloria Sandals

One of my most favorite and worn shoes are these Sézane Gloria Sandals. They have traveled with me on almost every Paris trip. The gold sandals are easy to dress up or down, are comfortable thanks to the block heel, and are incredibly chic. Parisians love to wear gold sandals and heels.

SHOP THE SHOES

What About Shoes For Pictures

If you want to take pictures with shoes that aren’t great for walking all day, then here’s my trick. I carry around this Longchamp tote with me every day and inside I always carry another pair of shoes.

There are times when I want to wear nice shoes for pictures but won’t be going back to the hotel to change during the day. So, I just take them with me. Put them on for the picture and then take them off again and put them back on my sneakers.

What Shoes Parisians Are Wearing Now

If you want to go to Paris and look like a local then you want to take these shoes with you on your next trip. Lots and lots of sneakers including, VEJA, Stan Smith, and Converse.

Also, Parisians love their booties and there was no shortage of those as well. I didn’t notice as many ballet flats this time around but maybe it was because it was still a bit chilly some days. I will look to see if I see people wearing those in June.

I always look at the Parisians to see what they are wearing before I pack for my trip. I figure if the shoes are comfortable enough for them to walk all day every day, then they must work.

Hopefully, this has helped with the best walking shoes for Paris and some things to think about next time you head to the city of lights.

French Shoe Brands

Here are some of my favorite French shoe brands I like to wear in Paris and some on my wishlist.

• Repetto
• VEJA
• Sézane
• ba&sh Paris
• Bobbies
• Jonak
• Christian Louboutin
• K. Jacques

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