Walking the Camino de Santiago is an unforgettable experience, whether you’re drawn to its history, culture, or personal challenge. Covering hundreds of kilometers, the journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to rolling countryside and charming villages. No matter your reason for walking, one thing is essential: choosing the right footwear.

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is what are the best shoes for Camino de Santiago? And for good reason: wearing the wrong shoes can lead to blisters, sore feet, and an uncomfortable journey. In this guide, we’ll help you find the perfect shoes to ensure a smooth and worry-free walk.

Best shoes for Camino de Santiago: hiking boots, trail runners, or walking shoes?

When choosing the best shoes for Camino de Santiago, pilgrims often wonder: hiking boots, trail runners, or walking shoes? Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on factors like season, terrain, and personal preference.

Hiking Boots

• Pros: Excellent ankle support, durable, good for rocky or uneven terrain.
• Cons: Heavier, can be too warm in summer, take longer to break in.
• Best for: Winter or early spring Caminos, routes with rough terrain like the Camino Primitivo.

Trail Runners

• Pros: Lightweight, breathable, comfortable right away, dry quickly.
• Cons: Less ankle support, wear out faster than boots.
• Best for: Warm-weather Caminos, those carrying light backpacks, routes with mixed terrain like the Camino Francés.

Walking Shoes

• Pros: Lightweight, cushioned, great for road walking.
• Cons: Less grip on uneven trails, not ideal for wet or muddy paths.
• Best for: Flat, well-maintained routes like the Camino Portugués Coastal Route.

Here’s our summary in a table as well:

Your choice of footwear can make or break your Camino experience. Consider the season, your pack weight, and the type of terrain before making a decision. No matter what you choose, make sure to break in your shoes before starting your journey!

Hiking boots vs. trail runners vs. walking shoes

Choosing the right footwear for the Camino de Santiago comes down to three key factors: weight, support, and durability. Each type of shoe has strengths and weaknesses, and the best option depends on the route, season, and personal preference. When considering the best shoes for Camino de Santiago, it’s essential to take these factors into account to ensure comfort and protection during your walk. Now let’s get into more detail to help you make the best choice for your Camino.

Weight

• Hiking boots: These are the heaviest, often weighing over 1 kg per pair. While they provide excellent stability, the extra weight can be tiring over long distances, especially if you’re aiming for the best shoes for Camino de Santiago to make your walk as comfortable as possible.

• Trail runners: These are much lighter, typically 500-800 g per pair, making them a popular choice for long-distance hikers looking for the best shoes for Camino de Santiago to balance comfort and speed.

• Walking shoes: These are the lightest, usually under 500 g per pair, ideal for those prioritizing comfort on paved or easy trails, which are common on some sections of the Camino.
  

Support

• Hiking boots: Offer the most ankle support, which is useful for rough terrain and carrying a heavy backpack, especially on the more challenging Camino routes. For these routes, the best shoes for Camino de Santiago are those that provide maximum support.

• Trail runners: Have a lower profile but still provide good cushioning and flexibility, allowing for a more natural stride on mixed terrain such as that found on the Camino Francés. If you’re looking for the best shoes for Camino de Santiago on such terrain, trail runners offer a great balance.

• Walking shoes: Offer the least support, best suited for smooth paths and lighter packs, particularly on well-maintained routes like the Camino Portugués Coastal Route, where comfort is key in the best shoes for Camino de Santiago.

Durability

• Hiking boots: Built to last but require a break-in period. A good pair of hiking boots can handle multiple Caminos, making them the best shoes for Camino de Santiago if you’re planning to take on different routes over the years.

• Trail runners: Wear out faster, typically lasting 600-800 km, meaning some pilgrims may need a replacement mid-Camino. But they are great for those looking for the best shoes for Camino de Santiago that prioritize lightness and comfort.

• Walking shoes: Less durable for rugged trails but work well for shorter routes or urban sections, where comfort is more important than toughness. For these types of sections, walking shoes can be the best shoes for Camino de Santiago.

Best choice for different Camino routes

• Hiking boots: ? Recommended for rough and mountainous trails like the Camino Primitivo or Camino del Norte in winter, where the best shoes for Camino de Santiago need to offer extra stability.

• Trail runners: ? Ideal for varied terrain like the Camino Francés, offering a balance between comfort and performance, making them one of the best shoes for Camino de Santiago.

• Walking shoes: ? Perfect for well-maintained routes such as the Camino Portugués Coastal Route, where comfort is a priority and the best shoes for Camino de Santiago are lightweight.

Your choice should match the terrain, your pack weight, and the season. No matter which option you go for, test your footwear in advance to avoid discomfort on the trail and ensure you have the best shoes for Camino de Santiago!

Sandals and backup shoes for the Camino

While your main pair of shoes will do most of the work, many pilgrims also carry sandals or a second pair of shoes for extra comfort and flexibility. Having a backup option can help prevent blisters, relieve foot fatigue, and adapt to changing conditions along the Camino. Even when you’ve chosen the best shoes for Camino de Santiago, your feet will still appreciate the chance to rest in something lighter or more breathable after a long day of walking.

Carrying sandals or an additional pair of shoes can be beneficial for several reasons. First, letting your feet breathe after a long walk can make a huge difference, especially when you’re trying to avoid blisters. Sandals allow your feet to air out and recover, which can prevent issues like swelling and excessive moisture buildup. Even the best shoes for Camino de Santiago might feel tight or damp after a full day’s walk, so having a backup pair for the evenings can be a game changer. If you develop blisters or pressure points, switching to sandals or another pair of shoes can provide immediate relief.

There are certain sections of the Camino where sandals can be a good alternative for walking. For instance, on flat and easy terrain like parts of the Camino Portugués Coastal Route, lightweight and breathable sandals can be a surprisingly comfortable option. In hot weather, sandals keep your feet cool and allow them to dry more quickly than hiking boots or trail runners. On rainy days, if your main shoes get soaked, sandals can offer a dry and much-needed alternative while your best shoes for Camino de Santiago dry out.

When choosing sandals for walking, make sure to select sturdy hiking sandals that offer good support and cushioning. Flip-flops are fine for use in hostels and showers, but won’t provide enough support for longer walking sections. Although carrying a backup pair of shoes or sandals may add a little extra weight to your pack, the comfort and flexibility they provide often make them well worth it: especially when paired with your well-chosen best shoes for Camino de Santiago.

Best shoes for Camino de Santiago: top recommended brands & models

Once you know the type of footwear that suits your Camino route and walking style, it’s time to look at specific models. Whether you need extra cushioning, a wide toe box, or shoes that can handle mixed terrain, there’s a great option out there for you. Below are some of the best shoes for Camino de Santiago, organized by trusted brands and including one top model each for women and men.

Meindl

Known for quality craftsmanship and excellent support, especially in mountainous terrain.

• Women: Meindl Lady MFS Bellavista Hiker – Waterproof, cushioned, and supportive with memory foam for a custom fit. Great for mixed terrain like the Camino Francés.
  
• Men: Meindl MFS Bellavista Hiker – Durable and stable, with excellent grip and all-day comfort. Perfect for rugged routes such as the Camino Primitivo.
  

Hanwag

Respected for precision fit and long-lasting durability.

• Women: Hanwag Banks Low Lady GTX – Excellent for flat to gently hilly terrain, with soft leather lining and roomy fit.
  
• Men: Hanwag Banks Low GTX – Supportive, breathable, and designed for comfort over long distances, perfect for the Camino Francés.
  

Lowa

Popular for comfort right out of the box and well-cushioned soles.

• Women: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Women – Great ankle support without feeling too stiff. Excellent for the Camino Primitivo or other rocky routes.
  
• Men: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Men – Sturdy yet comfortable, ideal for those carrying heavier packs or walking in early spring or autumn.

Icebug

Ideal for unpredictable terrain and slippery conditions, with a strong sustainability focus.

• Women: Icebug Rover 2 Women’s RB9X GTX – Comfortable and grippy with plenty of cushioning, suitable for all-weather conditions.
  
• Men: Icebug Larvik Hemp Biosole – Designed for mixed surfaces, this shoe offers excellent traction and comfort, even in wet environments.

Choosing the right shoe model for your Camino de Santiago journey depends on your individual needs, walking conditions, and personal preferences. Be sure to test out your shoes before hitting the trail, and consider factors like fit, comfort, and durability to ensure the best experience.

How to break in your Camino shoes before your pilgrimage

Once you’ve chosen the best shoes for Camino de Santiago, there’s one crucial step you shouldn’t skip: breaking them in. Even the best shoes can cause discomfort if they haven’t had time to adjust to your feet (and vice versa). A well-broken-in pair will help prevent blisters, reduce soreness, and make your pilgrimage much more enjoyable.

Start by wearing your Camino shoes for short walks around your neighborhood, gradually increasing both distance and walking time. Begin with 30-minute walks, then build up to 1–2 hours. Aim to replicate the conditions you’ll face on the Camino: carry your loaded backpack, walk on varied terrain if possible, and practice in both warm and cooler weather. The goal is to mimic the daily rhythm of the Camino so your feet and shoes adapt to each other before your journey even begins.

Another essential part of preparation is choosing the right socks. Look for moisture-wicking, seamless hiking socks made from merino wool or technical blends. Some walkers swear by using liner socks underneath to reduce friction and prevent blisters. Whichever you choose, make sure to test socks and shoes together while training.

Common mistakes to avoid when choosing the best shoes for Camino de Santiago

When it comes to choosing the best shoes for Camino de Santiago, many first-time pilgrims make avoidable mistakes that can lead to discomfort, or worse: injury, on the trail. Read our blogpost on how to avoid injuries right here. Footwear is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right.

One of the most common mistakes is buying new shoes too close to your departure date. Even if the shoes feel great in the shop, your feet need time to adjust to them, and any pressure points or issues usually reveal themselves after several hours of walking. Waiting until the last minute means there’s no time to properly break them in, increasing the risk of blisters and pain on the Camino.

Another frequent error is choosing the wrong fit. Shoes that are too tight can cause bruised toenails, while shoes that are too loose might lead to blisters from constant rubbing. Always make sure there’s enough space in the toe box (your feet will swell after hours of walking), and try shoes on with the socks you’ll actually wear on the Camino. Visiting a specialist outdoor store and getting your feet measured can really help.

Pilgrims also sometimes forget to consider breathability. Especially during warmer months, your feet need to stay cool and dry to avoid hotspots and fungal issues. Opt for breathable materials like mesh or lightweight synthetics, and steer clear of overly insulated or waterproof boots unless you’re walking in wet or cold conditions.

How to take care of your shoes during the Camino

Once you’ve found the best shoes for Camino de Santiago, it’s important to take care of them along the way. Proper maintenance will help keep your feet comfortable day after day and extend the life of your shoes throughout the journey. Taking care of your best shoes for Camino de Santiago is just as essential as choosing the right pair in the first place.

One of the most common challenges is dealing with wet shoes. Whether you get caught in rain, cross through mud, or sweat heavily in hot weather, your shoes are bound to get damp at some point. To dry them out, remove the insoles and laces, then stuff the shoes with newspaper or a dry towel to absorb moisture. Avoid placing them directly next to heaters or in direct sunlight, as this can damage the materials. If you’re staying in albergues, you can usually find a warm, dry spot for your shoes to air out overnight.

To prevent excessive wear, try rotating your socks midday and let your feet breathe when you take breaks. If possible, carry a lightweight pair of backup shoes or sandals to switch into during rest stops or in the evenings: this gives your main shoes time to air out and recover. Brushing off dirt and debris at the end of each day also helps preserve the fabric and the sole of your best shoes for Camino de Santiago.

Odor management is another important part of shoe care on the Camino. A few easy tricks include using antibacterial foot powder or sprays, and sprinkling baking soda inside your shoes overnight. Letting them air out completely each evening will also help reduce smells and moisture buildup.

Final thoughts on choosing the best shoes for Camino de Santiago

When it comes down to it, the best shoes for Camino de Santiago are the ones that keep your feet happy: day after day, kilometre after kilometre. Whether you prefer hiking boots, trail runners, or walking shoes, the most important factors to consider are comfort, durability, and proper fit. A shoe that fits well and suits the terrain can make the difference between a joyful pilgrimage and a painful one.

Don’t wait until you’re already on the Camino to discover whether your shoes are the right choice. Take the time to test them well in advance, breaking them in gradually and walking in similar conditions to what you’ll experience on the trail. Pair them with quality socks, care for them during the journey, and listen to your body as you go.

Still not sure what’s right for you? At WAW.travel, we help pilgrims prepare for every part of their journey, including choosing the best shoes for Camino de Santiago. Whether you’re planning your first Camino or returning for another adventure, we’re here to support you every step of the way: shoot us an e-mail at hey@waw.travel!