What Shoes To Wear In Hawaii: A Complete Guide

With its tropical climate and relaxed atmosphere, Hawaii may seem like the perfect place to kick off your shoes and go barefoot. However, the terrain can be unexpectedly rugged in parts, so having the right footwear is key to staying comfortable and avoiding injuries during your island adventures.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: wear water shoes or sandals to the beach, hiking shoes/boots for trails, and slip-on shoes or sandals for casual around-town wear.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll recommend the best shoes to pack for varied activities in Hawaii, from water sports to hiking trails. We’ll also cover factors like breathability and support to consider when selecting footwear for this sunny destination.

Beach Footwear

Water Shoes

When hitting the beach in Hawaii, having the right footwear is key. Water shoes are a top choice for beach activities as they provide protection and traction while keeping your feet cool.

Popular brands like Keen, Merrell, and Teva offer water shoes with closed-toes and mesh uppers that protect against rocks or coral while allowing water to drain.

Water shoes are great for beachcombing, playing in tide pools, and ocean activities like snorkeling. The rubber soles provide good grip on wet or slippery surfaces. Many water shoes feature anti-microbial treatments to prevent that post-beach foot odor.

Prices range from around $30 for basic models to $90 for hiking-style water shoes.

Flip Flops or Casual Sandals

Flip flops or casual sandals are popular easy-on, easy-off footwear for the beach. Brands like Reef, Rainbow, and Olukai offer sandals made specifically for the water, with contoured foam footbeds for comfort and traction.

These are nice when you plan to spend more time sunbathing or relaxing on the beach rather than playing in the water or walking long distances.

Standard flip flops can work too but may not provide arch support or traction for beach activities. One downside is the thong-style design often collects sand between your toes. Sandals are more likely to come off your feet in strong waves or currents.

But for lounging or brief wades through gentle surf, flip flops suffice.

When choosing beach footwear, consider what activities you plan to partake in. Sturdy water shoes provide protection for ocean play and beachcombing while casual sandals work for relaxing. Having both on hand means you’re equipped for a full day of beach fun in Hawaii!

Hiking Shoes and Boots

Day Hikes

When going on day hikes in Hawaii, it’s important to wear sturdy and supportive footwear. Lightweight hiking shoes or boots are ideal for protecting your feet while traversing trails. Here are some tips for choosing the right day hiking shoes:

• Opt for shoes with good traction like Vibram or lug soles to prevent slipping on uneven or wet terrain.
• Breathable mesh fabric uppers will keep your feet cool and dry in Hawaii’s humid climate.
• A waterproof barrier is useful for streams or rain showers. Popular waterproof membranes are Gore-Tex and eVent.
• Ankle support and stiffness in the sole provide stability and protection against rocks or tree roots. Low shoes like trail runners are fine for smoother paths.
• Pick hiking shoes over sneakers for durability and better grip. Top brands are Merrell, KEEN, Salomon, and Oboz.

Make sure to break in new hiking shoes before longer treks to prevent painful blisters. Wearing moisture-wicking socks and carrying blister bandages are also smart precautions.

Backpacking/Multi-Day Hikes

For overnight or multi-day backpacking trips, sturdier hiking boots provide better support for carrying a heavy pack over long distances. Here’s what to look for when selecting backpacking boots:

• Choosing leather or suede uppers over mesh provides more durability and longevity.
• Waterproof linings like Gore-Tex keep your feet dry in rain or stream crossings.
• Rigid soles with defined heel counters improve stability while bearing heavier loads.
• Lug, Vibram, or Michelin soles give superior traction in slippery terrain.
• Padded ankle collars and tongues prevent blisters from backpack straps.

According to a 2022 survey from CleverHiker.com, over 80% of backpackers preferred boots from Salomon, Oboz, Lowa, and Asolo brands for Hawaiian terrain. Prices range from $120-250 but the investment in quality hiking boots is worthwhile when embarking on longer adventures.

Be sure to waterproof and break in backpacking boots over shorter trips before tackling extended multi-day treks. Bring extra laces, moleskin or blister bandages, and reapply waterproofing frequently. Happy trails!

Also read: What To Wear Hiking In Hawaii: The Complete Packing Guide

Casual Shoes for Around Town

Slip-On Shoes

When you’re out exploring Hawaii’s towns and cities, a comfortable yet stylish pair of slip-on shoes is a great option. Slip-on sneakers, loafers, or boat shoes allow you to easily take them on and off when going in and out of stores or restaurants.

Brands like Vans, Sperry, and Dockers offer many casual slip-on styles perfect for walking around.

Look for slip-on shoes made of breathable materials like canvas or mesh to keep your feet cool and comfortable in Hawaii’s tropical climate. Consider slip-on sneakers with arch support and traction outsoles as you may encounter uneven sidewalks or rain showers while exploring.

Neutral colors like white, tan, or gray slip-ons pair well with the casual Hawaiian vibe.

Sandals

From checking out Hawaii’s beaches to grabbing a shave ice treat in town, sandals are a staple shoe for Hawaii. When choosing which sandals to pack, consider versatile styles like gladiator, fisherman, or strappy leather sandals.

Brands like Teva, Chaco, Olukai, and Rainbow offer supportive and long-lasting sandal options.

Look for sandals with features like contoured footbeds, shock absorption, and anti-microbial treatments for comfort while sightseeing or beachgoing. Consider convenient options like straps with buckles or velcro closures instead of zippers which can easily get sand stuck.

Neutral, earth tone, metallic, and brightly colored sandals all work well for Hawaiian casual style.

Consider Breathability and Support

When choosing shoes to wear in Hawaii, two key factors to consider are breathability and support. The tropical climate means warm weather year-round, so your feet will likely get hot and sweaty as you explore the islands.

Breathable shoes allow air to circulate around your feet, keeping them dry and comfortable in the heat and humidity.

Options like mesh sneakers, boat shoes, and sandals offer lots of ventilation. Leather or suede styles can get uncomfortably warm, while moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics help draw sweat away from your skin. Look for shoes with perforations or cutouts too.

Going sockless in breathable footwear is an easy way to keep cool.

However, don’t sacrifice support just for ventilation. With all the walking, hiking, and activity in Hawaii, you’ll need shoes that properly stabilize and cushion your feet. Options like athletic sneakers, rugged water shoes, and supportive sandals strike the best balance of breathability and comfort.

Features like padded insoles, foam midsoles, and textured outsoles provide essential support and shock absorption for exploring. Proper arch support also prevents foot pain and injuries when pounding the pavement or trails.

When trying on shoes, pay attention to overall fit too. Well-fitted footwear won’t rub, pinch, or slip around excessively. A touch of growing room allows for minor foot swelling but no major sliding which can lead to blisters.

While exploring Hawaii’s incredible scenery and attractions, you’ll likely get your shoes wet at beaches, rivers, trails, and waterfalls. Quick-drying materials are ideal to keep your feet comfortable all day. Synthetic fabrics and mesh panels dry faster than suede or leather.

The terrain in Hawaii varies widely, so choose footwear purposefully. Go Hawaii’s website has excellent advice on footwear for different island activities. Sturdy water shoes work well for waterfall hikes and ocean adventures. Sleek boat shoes easily transition from casual wear to boating.

And breathable sneakers take you from towns to trails with no outfit change needed!

With some forethought on breathability and support, you’re sure to find amazing shoes to comfortably discover Hawaii’s natural wonders and rich culture. From chasing waterfalls to combing beaches, your footwear helps make every moment unforgettable.

No matter your plans, keep your feet happy in properly ventilated, cushioned shoes. Then it’s time to live that pineapple life!

Also read: What To Wear In Hawaii: The Complete Packing Guide

Other Hawaii Packing Considerations

Bring Extra Socks

When preparing for a Hawaii vacation, bringing multiple pairs of socks is strongly advised. The tropical climate means your feet are likely to get hot and sweaty in your shoes when exploring the islands. Having spare socks allows you to change them throughout the day, keeping your feet fresh.

Most travelers recommend packing at least 5-7 pairs of socks for a week-long Hawaii trip. Breathable, moisture-wicking socks made of cool materials like cotton or bamboo work best.

Some outdoor brands like Darn Tough or Smartwool sell lightweight yet durable sock options perfect for warm climates.

Slipping a spare pair in your daypack ensures you can swap out socks after a sweaty hike or long day of walking around towns.

Waterproof Certain Shoes

When packing shoes for Hawaii, consider waterproofing or bringing waterproof styles to withstand the islands’ rainy weather and outdoor adventures. High-quality waterproof sprays like Nikwax can effectively repel water from leather, fabric, or suede shoes applied before the trip.

This allows you to wear your favorite slip-ons, sneakers, or sandals without soaking wet feet.

Alternatively, shoes designed to be waterproof like rugged hikers, rain boots, or waterproof sandals handle splashing in streams, getting caught in tropical storms, or hiking through mud without issue.

Pack at least one waterproof or quick-drying shoe option in your luggage to ensure you can comfortably explore Hawaii’s lush landscape no matter the weather.

Consider Weight of Luggage

When packing multiple pairs of shoes and socks for a Hawaii trip, consider your luggage weight restrictions to avoid hefty fees. Most airlines allow 1-2 checked bags weighing 50 pounds or less before overage charges apply.

Bulky shoes like boots or sneakers add weight fast, so traveling with versatile lightweight styles streamlines packing. Prioritize essentials like supportive sandals or walking shoes over casual varieties to minimize extras.

Shoes also take up sizable space, so use packing cubes, compression sacks, or stuff bags to consolidate them.

Getting stuck with a bag over the weight limit can lead to $100+ charges each way. Weigh luggage at home first and adjust contents if needed – leaving unneeded shoes behind beats paying steep airline fees!

Also read: What To Pack For Your Hawaii Vacation: The Ultimate Packing List

Conclusion

The right footwear can make or break your Hawaii vacation. By packing breathable, supportive shoes tailored to different island activities from hiking to water sports, you’ll stay comfortable while exploring the diversity of landscapes.

Focus on water readiness and traction for beach days, ankle support and grippy soles for trails, and lightweight slip-ons for casual wear around towns.

With the island-ready shoe recommendations above, you can confidently stride into any Hawaiian adventure. Have an unforgettable trip discovering beach coves, epic trails, lava fields, and all the sights this paradise has to offer.

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