Photo: Author
I have been to Disneyland around 300 times in the last eight years (I’ll wait for you to pick your jaw up off the floor). Living just 35 miles from the magical land and being a Magic Key Holder (aka, annual pass holder), has allowed me to experience the joy of Disneyland on numerous occasions. And let me tell you, when it comes to the best shoes for Disneyland, I’ve found some that not only stand the test of time but also endure a full day of walking, waiting in line for rides, and watching parades or fireworks.
“Our feet are our foundation and serve as our body’s shock absorbers,” says board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon Dr. Bradley Schaeffer, DPM. “They can take a lot, but they also need a break from weight bearing and relentless pounding, especially during a long day and night at Disneyland.”
The Best Shoes for Disneyland, at a Glance:
- Best overall sneaker: Kizik, Athens, $129
- Best sustainable sneaker: Allbirds, Tree Dasher 2, $135
- Best classic sneaker: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12, $160
- Best fashion sneaker: Skechers x DVF, Arch Fit in Sprinting Spots, $115
- Best affordable sneaker: Pink Lily, Rylee Air, $52
- Best neutral sneaker: Reebok, Floatride Energy 5, $88 (originally $110)
- Best athletic sneaker: Brooks, Ghost 15, $140
- Best fashion sandal: FitFlop, F-Mode Leather Flatform Back-Strap, $130
- Best trekking sandal: Teva, Midform Universal, $65
- Best sporty sandal: Clarks, Dash Lite Cross, $90
- Best recovery shoe: Oofos, Oomg Sport, $140
The amount of steps I take in a day at Disneyland is staggering, but probably not surprising. I average at least 12,000 steps every time I visit Disneyland and California Adventure. Some days, I even reach upwards of 20,000 steps, which means a full day from sun-up to sun-down with friends or family from out of town. Even on a "normal" shorter day, I still manage to walk a minimum of 10,000 steps. With that in mind, it is crucial to wear comfortable shoes. Additionally, I broke my ankle seven years ago and still experience residual pain. So, the sneakers I wear need to take that into account as well.
Luckily, I've discovered a selection of sneakers and sandals that meet the Disneyland standard. All I have to do is slip them on, climb into an enchanted pirate ship, and ride off into starry-filled London with Peter Pan. Read on to find out the best shoes to wear to Disneyland, along with some tips and tricks from Dr. Schaeffer on what to look out for when choosing a pair of sneakers or sandals for a day at the parks.
What are the top factors to consider when choosing shoes for Disneyland?
In between snacking on churros and riding Space Mountain, you'll do a lot of walking at Disneyland. An average day could include anywhere from 15,000 to 20,000 steps. Therefore, there are a few important things to keep in mind when selecting the right shoes to accompany you throughout the day.
Arch support
The arch provides both support and balance. According to Dr. Schaeffer, arch support is the most critical feature that affects comfort and can help prevent various foot issues. Improper arch support can lead to problems such as plantar fasciitis, lower leg and back pain, and hammertoe.
Good cushioning
Cushioning is essential as it helps your feet absorb shock and avoid further tissue irritation and damage. However, Dr. Schaeffer advises against shoes that are overly squishy, as they may lack proper support.
Proper size
The right shoe size should take both length and width into account. Dr. Schaeffer warns against wearing shoes that allow your heel or foot to slip around. He recommends trying on shoes after walking around a store for a while, with the same kind of socks you plan to wear.
Break-in period
Just like you wouldn't want to stand in new heels for hours on end at an event, the same goes for wearing new sneakers to an amusement park like Disneyland. Dr. Schaeffer reminds us that "new shoes, whether they fit properly or not, will tend to be stiffer," which could cause blisters and irritation.
Now that you’re armed with information on how to choose the best shoes for Disneyland (or footed, as the case may be), it’s time to find the perfect pair for you. Below, I'll share a few of my favorites.
The Best Shoes to Wear to Disneyland, According to a Frequent Visitor
Photo: Author
There you have it, the best shoes to wear to Disneyland according to someone who has visited 300 times in the past eight years. These shoes combine comfort, durability, and style to ensure that your feet are well taken care of, even during long and action-packed days at the park. So, slip on your favorite pair, and get ready to create magical memories at Disneyland!
