When it comes to packing for your upcoming trip to Walt Disney World the most common question is: what kind of shoes should I wear?
This is truly one of the most important aspects of planning your Disney vacation because it can make or break your vacation. Sore feet, achy backs or blisters on your toes can make for a pretty miserable trip.
Choosing the perfect shoes includes a lot of personal preference. However, there are some principles that must be followed when choosing footwear for your trip.
- Do not wear new shoes to Disney World
- Choose the most comfortable shoes you can find
- Prioritize breathability and lightweight shoes
- It is a good idea to consider health factors such as plantar fasciitis or bunions
- Choose athletic shoes over sandals
The top brands to consider when choosing shoes for adults are:
- Brooks
- OnCloud
- Hoka
- New Balance
- Nike
Remember, you will walk an average of 8 miles and over 18,000 steps every single day in the Disney theme parks. On our last Disney trip we walked over 40 miles in just 3.5 days. We were so glad we had good sneakers to wear!
Best Shoes For Walt Disney World For Women
This post includes affiliate links.
If you have a favorite sneaker or walking shoe we recommend going with whatever fits you best. The best shoes for Disney World are whatever the right shoes are for YOUR feet.
That being said, if you are in the market for new footwear we have a number of options for you! These are not the cheapest choices, but comfortable shoes are oftentimes worth the extra will cost. They will last for years!
1. Nike Trail Running – Best all around
These Nike shoes are an amazing mix of athletic shoe and leisure shoe. The simple, classic look of these shoes will go with any outfit. These come in 18 color options and feature a breathable mesh fabric. Running style shoes often have space for foot swelling which make them extra comfortable. These are a fan favorite and might be considered the perfect shoe for Disney!
- Circular-knit on the upper is made with spandex for natural movement.
- Dynamic heel fit system supports from heel to ankle.
- Tri-star outsole pattern adapts to your step for flexible cushioning.
- Dynamic Fit technology is achieved through Flywire cables integrated with the laces for an adaptive, supportive fit.
- Texture has been added under the toe and heel to enhance traction in high-abrasion zones.
2. Adidas Cloudfoam – most comfortable and lightweight
These are considered an incredibly comfortable walking shoe that also works for running. These are a knit, lace up sneaker that have a Cloudfoam sole, making these a great choice for wearing around the Disney parks on a hot day!
- The primary materials that compose this product contain a minimum of 20 percent recycled content.
- Keep comfortable and sporty wearing the knit adidas® Running Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 lace-up sneaker! Step into these shoes for crisp, clean style and comfort. Thanks to their heritage adidas vibes, these running-inspired trainers make it easy to look calm, cool and collected.
- This product is made with Primegreen, a series of high-performance recycled materials.
- Traditional lace-up for a comfortable and adjustable fit.
- Soft fabric lining.
- Cloudfoam™ footbed provides superior underfoot cushioning.
Jen wore these during our last Disney trip and absolutely loved them. There’s a good reason why they’re called Cloudfoam – it literally feels like you’re walking on clouds! She was worried they wouldn’t give her enough support but they did an amazing job.
3. New Balance Fresh Foam – best variety of styles
New Balance shoes are a fantastic option if you are looking for a good, solid walking shoe. You will easily be able to walk miles in this shoe with no discomfort! They are considered one of the best walking shoes out there and are a really great shoes for your day at Disney.
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Bootie upper construction hugs your foot for a snug, supportive fit
- Synthetic/mesh upper
- Ortholite sockliner for comfort
- Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
4. On Cloud Sneakers – best splurge
For a higher end option, check these out! You will see people wearing these shoes are all over the Disney Parks. We think these are a fantastic option and definitely worth the money. These come in a variety of styles – any are great.
- Rubber sole
- Structured arch support
- Lightweight design
- Reflective accents
- HelionTM superfoam injected CloudTec sole for cushioned, yet responsive movement
- SpeedboardTM technology and supportive side panels
- Signature speed-lacing system
Katie got these shoes to wear on a recent trip to Disney World and she really liked them. They were immediately comfortable and did not require a ton of breaking in. These shoes provide plenty of support but also feel almost “bouncy.” It is the best of both worlds – great support and comfort together!
5. Chaco Sandals – best sandals
If you are dead set on wearing sandals in Disney World pass on the flip flops. Check out these classic Chaco sandals instead. They get 5 stars for a reason! These are incredibly comfortable sandals, won’t slide off your feet, and have adjustable straps. This classic style has been around forever because of their versatility and great arch support.
- Strap on all kinds of goodness with the Chaco® Z/1® Classic sandal!
- Polyester jacquard webbing straps wrap around the foot and through the midsole for a customized fit.
- Injection-molded ladder lock buckle at ankle.
- LUVSEAT™ polyurethane footbed and midsole.
- High-performing ChacoGrip™ rubber compound outsole with 3.0 mm lug depth.
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association™ (APMA).
6. Brooks Running Shoes – best running shoe option
These running shoes are popular with good reason! They are extremely comfortable and made to be worn for long distances. You can’t go wrong with a pair of Brooks! These are a favorite shoe of many Disney guests.
- The Brooks® Adrenaline GTS 22 running shoes have an updated mesh upper with 3D print for added structure and support. The holistic GuideRails support system also helps protect the knees by keeping excess movement in check.
- Predecessor: Adrenaline GTS 21.
- Support Type: Overpronation/Stability.
- Cushioning: High energizing cushioning.
Best Shoes For Disney World For Men
1. New Balance Walking Shoes – best all around
This a casual shoe that is one of the best sneaker options for walking around Walt Disney World! All the men in our family have worn and loved New Balance for years and consider these to be favorite shoes. These are extremely comfortable and will hold up for miles!
- Combining athletic design with heritage-influenced appearance, the New Balance® MW877 walking shoe is the perfect shoe for the long road ahead.
- Suede and mesh upper.
- Padded tongue and collar provide comfort and excellent support.
- Traditional lace-up closure ensures a snug fit.
- Perforations in the upper for increased airflow.
- Smooth fabric lining.
2. Hoka One Mens Sneaker – Disney guest favorite
Hoka is a brand that you can be confident in. Hoka makes a ton of different styles of shoes. Probably the most popular option is the Clifton 9. Regardless of what kind you choose, your feet will thank you! These are some of the most comfortable walking shoes.
The ninth iteration of our award-winning Clifton franchise has launched, lighter and more cushioned than ever before. Eliminating weight while adding 3mm in stack height, the new Clifton 9 delivers a revitalized underfoot experience with a responsive new foam and improved outsole design. Removing overlays and hotmelts, the stripped back upper has been consciously crafted with a plusher heel, reflective heel panel, and streamlined tongue with single side medial gusset.
3. Brooks Shoes – best running shoe
Just like with the women’s shoes Brooks are one of the best. Made to be worn for hundreds of miles, you will be happy with this choice! Brooks shoes come in a variety of styles – choose a running shoe if your feet tend to swell.
- The primary materials that compose this product contain a minimum of 20 percent recycled content.
- Take every step with comfort and style wearing Brooks® Ghost 15 Sneakers.
- The Soft quiet ride that you have grown accustomed to is now improved with Up-dated DNA Loft V2 cushioning providing a smoother ride with a breathable 3D fit print upper for a seamless fit. This Neutral runner is soft and smooth for miles.
- Engineered air mesh upper.
- Nylon lining.
4. ON Cloud Mens Running Shoe – best splurge
These Swiss shoes are some of the most lightweight shoes on the market. Your feet will love the flexible sole that these shoes have to offer. These feature a bungee style lace up closure. This is a top choice if you are looking to splurge.
- Stay comfortable and casual wearing the sporty On® Cloudvista sneakers.
- Short to middle distances.
- Speed-lacing system offers a quick and comfortable glove-like fit.
- The lightweight and versatile trail running shoe for cushioned comfort. Your key to unlocking the trail.
- Round toe.
5. Asics Sneakers – best price
Asics are not as popular as some other brands but we think that should change. These sneakers are super comfortable, look good, and are very affordable! These are a top brand for men looking for a good sneaker and all day comfort.
- Lace up for a smooth ride in the lightweight ASICS® GEL-Excite® 9; designed for miles of comfort and support.
- Predecessor: Gel-Excite® 8.
- Surface: Road.
- Textile mesh upper with synthetic overlays.
- Padded collar for secure fit and reinforced heel.
- Breathable textile lining.
6. Keen Newport H2 – best sandals
These Keen sandals are one of the the top choices if you want to have the stability of a shoe but the feel of a sandal. These Keens have been on the market for years and have been loved by outdoor hikers for ages. You know that these will be a great option for your trip to Walt Disney World!
- The KEEN® Newport is the foundation of the Keen® footwear line.
- Designed to perform in the adverse conditions of a marine environment, the razor siped outsole and 3mm lugs provides excellent traction both on land and on the slick surfaces of boat decks or river rocks.
- A true hybrid, the waterproof nubuck upper withstands the abuse of saltwater and dirt, while providing supple comfort and a stylish look.
- Upper is made of environmentally preferred premium leather from an LWG-certified tannery.
- Waterproof nubuck leather upper wraps around the foot for stability, allowing generous ventilation.
Best Shoes for Kids for Walt Disney World
Kids should wear shoes that are comfortable and won’t fall off while at Walt Disney World.
If your child is young enough to spend some time in a stroller you don’t need to worry too much about their footwear. Whatever your kids will wear, not kick off, and not complain about is the best option here! Your little kids will have time off their feet in the stroller and are probably small enough to be carried so don’t over think it.
1. Skechers Kids Sport Ultra Flex – Best Slip On Shoe
Skechers brand consistently ranks high for comfortability for kids, making these a great option. For a trip to Disney World, we like these sporty slip on sneakers that have a super breathable mesh material. The sole is memory foam and these shoes have a sock-like fit!
Comes in both boys and girls designs.
- Complete her active look and stay fashionable by wearing SKECHERS® KIDS Sport Stretch Knit-Ultra Flex 3.0 303811L sneakers.
- Soft-engineered skech-knit stretchable upper.
- Stretch Fit® design for sock-like comfort.
- Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam® cushioned comfort insole.
- Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins™ for an easy fit.
2. Kubua – best budget shoes
Here is another option of a slip on style shoe with a velcro strap! We love that these shoes are super affordable and still very stylish. Comes in nineteen different color options.
- Fabric shoe , with cushioned insole, add comfort to make your child more relaxed and comfortable when wearing.
- Fabric with padded collar, cushioned comfort insole. keeping the feet dry,prevents soles sweating and to help reduce odor.
- The soles of our kids athletic sneakers have a shock absorbing technology that protects against bone and muscle strains, and keeps your kid’s knees, ankles and spine supported.
- Wear-resistant outsole and anti-collision shoes head. tennis shoes can be strong bending without deform and excellent shock absorption, make children more safe.
3. Nike Kids Revolution 5 –Best overall shoe
These Nike running shoes have the look of lace up shoes but the ease of velcro! These lightweight, very breathable shoes have a padded tongue and a flexible fit. There is a velcro strap at the top to allow these shoes to fit perfectly. These come in a ton of different colors.
Flash, dash and blast into every day with the help of these Revolution Running Shoes that are made especially for fun. No, they're not loaded with sugar or fireworks, but they do come in awesome colors and designs that'll have you reaching for them every day of the year.
4. Keen Newport Sandals – best sandal option
Yes, these are called sandals, but they function just like a shoe! Many of the kids in our families have worn Keen sandals and they are truly fantastic. They are a more expensive option but in our opinion, they are worth every penny, especially if you can pass them down to siblings.
- The Keen® Kids Newport Neo H2 Active Sandals are fisherman-styled footwear that is specially designed to withstand harsh circumstances while your kiddo is on trekking journeys.
- Synthetic upper.
- Synthetic lining and EVA insole.
- Water-repellent and quick-drying properties.
- DWR treated.
- Pull tabs for easy wear.
- Bungee lace closure with hook-and-loop strap.
- Protective toe cap.
5. New Balance Sneakers – best for comfort and color options
These classic looking New Balance sneakers are another great shoe option. These shoes have a breathable mesh material and soft leather uppers for extra comfort.
These come in an incredible 33 different color options! Pricing ranges fro $25 to $140 depending upon the color and specific style. (The link below will take you to all the styles available.)
- Showcasing an engineered mesh and lightweight synthetic upper, elasticized laces with a hook-and-loop closure strap, and a padded tongue and collar, these New Balance® Kids 680v6 sneakers will keep their training on track.
- Support Type: Neutral to underpronation (supination).
- Breathable mesh fabric lining offers a great in-shoe feel.
- IMEVA injection-molded EVA foam midsole for firm yet flexible cushioning.
- ABZORB® midsole provides a superior blend of cushioning and compression set.
6. Dream Pairs Summer Sandals – best budget sandal
Here is one more pair of athletic sandals that comes in 13 color options! These sandals are lightweight with a rubber sole for good traction. They have a hook and loop strap with bungee elastic lacing to make getting these on and off a cinch!
Of course, you can’t go wrong with Disney Crocs featuring Mickey Mouse for your little one!
- Quick-Drying: With their quick-drying and breathable features, these athletic shoes are perfect for a seamless transition between hiking and water fun.
- Easy To Adjust Experience hassle-free comfort with the easy hook-and-loop closure and bungee system, achieving a customized fit in seconds, allowing your child to focus on their adventurous escapades.
FAQs
While you aren’t required to wear sneakers, we highly recommend that you do get sneakers to wear at Disney World.
We recommend bringing at least two pairs of shoes to Walt Disney World. You will want your park shoes (good walking shoes) and a pair of shoes to change into once you get back to your hotel to give you feet a break.
Hopefully you will find a shoe that works well for your vacation here! The last thing you want to deal with is uncomfortable shoes. Just remember – you will be doing a lot of walking for long days and a good walking shoe is worth its weight in gold!
We have a breakdown of how much walking you can expect in EPCOT here.
Don’t forget to head to our complete packing list post to know exactly what to bring to Disney World! We also have a list of the best backpacks to use as your Disney park bag. If fanny packs are more your jam, check out our favorite fanny packs here.
Want more Disney fashion?
- Check out our post of Disney inspired shoes here!
- Find the best Disney Graphic Tees for Women here.
- Love Disney leggings? You need this post!
- Don’t forget about your nails! Here’s a ton of Disney nails to try out!