Our first Camino

[Cariad]

Hi I am Wendy walking Camino end of May with my hubby . Older pilgrims with ‘adventurous spirits’. This will be our first Camino so have few quick questions. Ideas or comments on either good alburgues or next up for better sleep. Note we are also wanting to continue the Camino spirit of community and all the Camino offers when I say this. Also anyone found good pair WIDE walking shoes as I’ve been trying so many for weeks but seems WIDE widths are hard to find??? Presently trying Keene ! Thanks to everyone ! We are excited.

 

[Tincatinker]

@Cariad welcome to the Forum. You will find the answer to just about any Camino related question here but you may need to be a bit more specific. Which Camino you are planning to walk would be a good starting point.

If you are concerned about the communality of Albergue life you won't be alone. Many walk the Caminos and avoid Albergues all of the time. Some dip in and out as the fancy or the need for a little privacy and an undisturbed night take them. Some Albergues have private rooms. Try the Resources section for some excellent lists and commentaries.

On wide shoes I can't help at all but any decent Outdoor outfitter will. You've not said where you are from but Cotswold in the UK, Decathalon in Europe and REI in the States are all well reputed. Just make sure the fitter fully understands what you're planning to do in 'em.

Buen camino

 

[Cariad]

@Cariad welcome to the Forum. You will find the answer to just about any Camino related question here but you may need to be a bit more specific. Which Camino you are planning to walk would be a good starting point.

If you are concerned about the communality of Albergue life you won't be alone. Many walk the Caminos and avoid Albergues all of the time. Some dip in and out as the fancy or the need for a little privacy and an undisturbed night take them. Some Albergues have private rooms. Try the Resources section for some excellent lists and commentaries.

On wide shoes I can't help at all but any decent Outdoor outfitter will. You've not said where you are from but Cotswold in the UK, Decathalon in Europe and REI in the States are all well reputed. Just make sure the fitter fully understands what you're planning to do in 'em.

Buen camino

@Cariad welcome to the Forum. You will find the answer to just about any Camino related question here but you may need to be a bit more specific. Which Camino you are planning to walk would be a good starting point.

If you are concerned about the communality of Albergue life you won't be alone. Many walk the Caminos and avoid Albergues all of the time. Some dip in and out as the fancy or the need for a little privacy and an undisturbed night take them. Some Albergues have private rooms. Try the Resources section for some excellent lists and commentaries.

On wide shoes I can't help at all but any decent Outdoor outfitter will. You've not said where you are from but Cotswold in the UK, Decathalon in Europe and REI in the States are all well reputed. Just make sure the fitter fully understands what you're planning to do in 'em.

Buen camino

@Cariad welcome to the Forum. You will find the answer to just about any Camino related question here but you may need to be a bit more specific. Which Camino you are planning to walk would be a good starting point.

If you are concerned about the communality of Albergue life you won't be alone. Many walk the Caminos and avoid Albergues all of the time. Some dip in and out as the fancy or the need for a little privacy and an undisturbed night take them. Some Albergues have private rooms. Try the Resources section for some excellent lists and commentaries.

On wide shoes I can't help at all but any decent Outdoor outfitter will. You've not said where you are from but Cotswold in the UK, Decathalon in Europe and REI in the States are all well reputed. Just make sure the fitter fully understands what you're planning to do in 'em.

Buen camino

@Cariad welcome to the Forum. You will find the answer to just about any Camino related question here but you may need to be a bit more specific. Which Camino you are planning to walk would be a good starting point.

If you are concerned about the communality of Albergue life you won't be alone. Many walk the Caminos and avoid Albergues all of the time. Some dip in and out as the fancy or the need for a little privacy and an undisturbed night take them. Some Albergues have private rooms. Try the Resources section for some excellent lists and commentaries.

On wide shoes I can't help at all but any decent Outdoor outfitter will. You've not said where you are from but Cotswold in the UK, Decathalon in Europe and REI in the States are all well reputed. Just make sure the fitter fully understands what you're planning to do in 'em.

Buen camino

 

[Waka]

Welcome to the forum.
Regarding shoes I require a wide toe box and have found Meindl a good choice, for me I have to go a complete size up from my street shoes.

 

[Cariad]

Thank you and forgot to add following.
Living between Canada and Houston Texas. We have family in both camps ! Walking Camino Francés around May 21- whenever finish date.
Re shoes. Have tried many here in canada mec etc etc but not right width. Seems wide is a problem or so it seems. Presently trying Keene and hoping fir best. Will keep pledging on. Thank you.

 

[Cariad]

Welcome to the forum.
Regarding shoes I require a wide toe box and have found Meindl a good choice, for me I have to go a complete size up from my street shoes.

 

[Cariad]

Thank you good to know. Yes agree I have had to go up a size too. I’ll do some checking on your suggestion.

 

[Delphinoula]

Hi Sweetie,
Yeah I had bought my hiking boots a size up but they were still too small for downhill. Best to try them on in a store that lets you try them on a bridge to simulate downhill walking. A joint saver were my hokas they are marathon running shoes and good for paved dry streets. And learn how to lace them right there are a lot of instructions on YouTube so if you have a problem like bunions you can lace them for your comfort. It’s amazing how little I saw that easy and cero cost done. Bion Camino

 

[Cariad]

Hi Sweetie,
Yeah I had bought my hiking boots a size up but they were still too small for downhill. Best to try them on in a store that lets you try them on a bridge to simulate downhill walking. A joint saver were my hokas they are marathon running shoes and good for paved dry streets. And learn how to lace them right there are a lot of instructions on YouTube so if you have a problem like bunions you can lace them for your comfort. It’s amazing how little I saw that easy and cero cost done. Bion Camino

 

[Cariad]

Hi thank you. All good advice me thinks. Seems as if we are all on same page! It’s so exciting to just be asking these questions and getting ready to go in May. Great responses thank you

 

[trecile]

Many people with wide feet like the Altra Lone Peaks because of their wide toe box. https://www.altrarunning.com/shop/t...l/lone-peak-4-alw1855f?variationId=220#hero=0

 

[Vacajoe]

Altra Timps are the best shoe I have ever worn. Like the Lone Peaks, but less “stiff” since no rock plate. REGARDLESS of show choice, wear them on your training hikes (along with your fully loaded pack) to ensure that they truly will work for you.

 

[Cariad]

Altra Timps are the best shoe I have ever worn. Like the Lone Peaks, but less “stiff” since no rock plate. REGARDLESS of show choice, wear them on your training hikes (along with your fully loaded pack) to ensure that they truly will work for you.

 

[Cariad]

Oh never heard of them. But yes I will look at them. Thanks a lot. The feet need great shoe

 

[Cariad]

Many people with wide feet like the Altra Lone Peaks because of their wide toe box. https://www.altrarunning.com/shop/t...l/lone-peak-4-alw1855f?variationId=220#hero=0

 

[Cariad]

I’m so glad I posted. Great responses and good info. Thank you so much.

 

[Tassie Kaz]

Thank you and forgot to add following.
Living between Canada and Houston Texas. We have family in both camps ! Walking Camino Francés around May 21- whenever finish date.
Re shoes. Have tried many here in canada mec etc etc but not right width. Seems wide is a problem or so it seems. Presently trying Keene and hoping fir best. Will keep pledging on. Thank you.

So excited for you setting out on your first Camino (note I said 'first'...prepare thyself, there will be others to follow...!).
To add my footwear suggestion; I have one foot wider & one foot longer ( apart from that, perfect in every way...cough, choke, splutter ) & find Salomon suits me the best. Since discovering them, I won't wear anything else...& I've never had a blister wearing Salomon.
Best wishes, enjoy every minute..before & during your walk!

 

[Anamiri]

Hi I am Wendy walking Camino end of May with my hubby . Older pilgrims with ‘adventurous spirits’. This will be our first Camino so have few quick questions. Ideas or comments on either good alburgues or next up for better sleep. Note we are also wanting to continue the Camino spirit of community and all the Camino offers when I say this. Also anyone found good pair WIDE walking shoes as I’ve been trying so many for weeks but seems WIDE widths are hard to find??? Presently trying Keene ! Thanks to everyone ! We are excited.

I have found that good sports shoes providers will order wider widths in. They often stock the 'average' widths, but the manufacturers make other widths that can be ordered

 

[Roland49]

Hello and welcome to the forum!

I've found my walking-boots at Meindl, a german specialist for walking, trekking and alpine shoes.
They offer a wide range of special "wide" shoes and boots, for those who need this.
I tried some of them and found that the standard-width is wide enough for me.

The next brand to recommend is Hanwag, they offer boots and shoes specially designed for people who suffer from bunion.

I don't know if you can get those brands in the US, but I think you'll find them in Canada.
Hanwag do have a sales-representative in Canada:
https://www.hanwagboots.ca/

Roland
Buen Camino!

 

[Beeman]

Welcome! I have the altra lone peak shoes and love them! Being zero drop has been a big help,even running downhill with a pack on. Give them a try. I have been hiking for over 60 years. Bruce

 

[Deleted member 67185]

.... Also anyone found good pair WIDE walking shoes as I’ve been trying so many for weeks but seems WIDE widths are hard to find??? Presently trying Keene ! Thanks to everyone ! We are excited.

Hi, Cariad.

Both New Balance and Hokka One One offer terrific trail shoes in wide widths. If you want any further information or suggestions feel free to send me a Private Message.

As you go looking for shoe, here are some tips which I have posted before that may help you.

The most important theme for achieving a proper fit is: You do not choose a shoe based on measurements, you buy a shoe based on its Fit N Feel regardless of instrument measurements.

1. When you go to the store, do so toward the end of the day.... you will have been up on your feet, so that will help with getting the correct fit. Additionally, you will need to wear the same backpack with the same gear you will be carrying... you want this additional weight on you as this will put the same downward pressure on the foot that you will be having while on Camino.
2. Wear the exact same sock(s) you will be wearing while you are walking on the Camino. And if you have a special insole or orthotic, bring it with you.
3. At the store, the measuring that will be done on your feet is only to get you in the ballpark for the correct shoe size.
4. Start by standing up; never measure while sitting. You want the full weight of your body, with the pack on, to put the same pressure on your feet to spread them out as will happen while walking. That alone will increase the volume and size of your feet.
5. Make sure those 'Camino' socks are on your feet; if you wear socks with liners while walking, do the same thing at the store.
6. While standing, have someone near to you that you can use to steady yourself. With the measuring device on the ground, step onto the instrument and center all of your weight onto the foot being measured. Do the same for the other foot.
7. Start with that size, but be aware that both the width and the length need to feel like there is adequate room for your feet. Ideally, like Goldilocks, everything will be just right. But, don't count on it. Be picky.
8. If you have special insoles or orthotics, put them into any shoe you try on as they will take up space inside the shoe.
9. When you find what you think will fit you well, you will need to see if your toes have enough clearance. Toes should not be able to be forced to the front of the shoe and touch the shoe. Not even a little. If they do, long walking and downhill grades on the trail or path or road will traumatize the bed of the nail, and that is when toenails can blacken and fall off.
10. With your shoes tied securely, but not too tight, walk around the store with your pack on. Go up stairs and down stairs, scuff the shoes to the floor so that your feet are forced to do any movement they will do and see if your toes so much as butterfly kiss the front of the shoe. Kick the front of the shoe into a post or stair or wall or someone's shin.... does that make any of your toes touch the front of the shoe? That goes for all the little piggies.
11. Next, pay attention to the width of the shoe. It shouldn't feel snug on the sides and there should be no rubbing or pressure points at all. They will not go away with "break in". They will create soreness, pain, and blistering. Even if it seems to be tolerable, it is like water torture; as your feet are continually exposed to those pressure points your feet will break down against them bit by bit, and bruising, blisters, and soreness will follow.
12. You may need to go up a size to a size and a half in length, and go with a wider width to avoid those things I mentioned above. The notion that one avoids blisters by wearing snug footwear has been shown to do just the opposite.

 

[Cariad]

So excited for you setting out on your first Camino (note I said 'first'...prepare thyself, there will be others to follow...!).
To add my footwear suggestion; I have one foot wider & one foot longer ( apart from that, perfect in every way...cough, choke, splutter ) & find Salomon suits me the best. Since discovering them, I won't wear anything else...& I've never had a blister wearing Salomon.
Best wishes, enjoy every minute..before & during your walk!

 

[Cariad]

Oh thank you who knows what next year could bring we do have adventurous spirits. Nudge nudge wink wink. My daughter loves her Salomon so I could check them out but was led to believe they were narrow ..... off to store once again. I must say so far my Keene’s have proven to be best so far. Thanks for your interest.

 

[Cariad]

Hi, Cariad.

Both New Balance and Hokka One One offer terrific trail shoes in wide widths. If you want any further information or suggestions feel free to send me a Private Message.

As you go looking for shoe, here are some tips which I have posted before that may help you.

The most important theme for achieving a proper fit is: You do not choose a shoe based on measurements, you buy a shoe based on its Fit N Feel regardless of instrument measurements.

1. When you go to the store, do so toward the end of the day.... you will have been up on your feet, so that will help with getting the correct fit. Additionally, you will need to wear the same backpack with the same gear you will be carrying... you want this additional weight on you as this will put the same downward pressure on the foot that you will be having while on Camino.
2. Wear the exact same sock(s) you will be wearing while you are walking on the Camino. And if you have a special insole or orthotic, bring it with you.
3. At the store, the measuring that will be done on your feet is only to get you in the ballpark for the correct shoe size.
4. Start by standing up; never measure while sitting. You want the full weight of your body, with the pack on, to put the same pressure on your feet to spread them out as will happen while walking. That alone will increase the volume and size of your feet.
5. Make sure those 'Camino' socks are on your feet; if you wear socks with liners while walking, do the same thing at the store.
6. While standing, have someone near to you that you can use to steady yourself. With the measuring device on the ground, step onto the instrument and center all of your weight onto the foot being measured. Do the same for the other foot.
7. Start with that size, but be aware that both the width and the length need to feel like there is adequate room for your feet. Ideally, like Goldilocks, everything will be just right. But, don't count on it. Be picky.
8. If you have special insoles or orthotics, put them into any shoe you try on as they will take up space inside the shoe.
9. When you find what you think will fit you well, you will need to see if your toes have enough clearance. Toes should not be able to be forced to the front of the shoe and touch the shoe. Not even a little. If they do, long walking and downhill grades on the trail or path or road will traumatize the bed of the nail, and that is when toenails can blacken and fall off.
10. With your shoes tied securely, but not too tight, walk around the store with your pack on. Go up stairs and down stairs, scuff the shoes to the floor so that your feet are forced to do any movement they will do and see if your toes so much as butterfly kiss the front of the shoe. Kick the front of the shoe into a post or stair or wall or someone's shin.... does that make any of your toes touch the front of the shoe? That goes for all the little piggies.
11. Next, pay attention to the width of the shoe. It shouldn't feel snug on the sides and there should be no rubbing or pressure points at all. They will not go away with "break in". They will create soreness, pain, and blistering. Even if it seems to be tolerable, it is like water torture; as your feet are continually exposed to those pressure points your feet will break down against them bit by bit, and bruising, blisters, and soreness will follow.
12. You may need to go up a size to a size and a half in length, and go with a wider width to avoid those things I mentioned above. The notion that one avoids blisters by wearing snug footwear has been shown to do just the opposite.

 

[Cariad]

Thanks for info. I appreciate your input.
Wendy.

 

[Cariad]

Welcome! I have the altra lone peak shoes and love them! Being zero drop has been a big help,even running downhill with a pack on. Give them a try. I have been hiking for over 60 years. Bruce

 

[Cariad]

Yes everything is worth try. I don’t personally know this brand but will be trying them. Thank you so much.

 

[Cariad]

Hello and welcome to the forum!

I've found my walking-boots at Meindl, a german specialist for walking, trekking and alpine shoes.
They offer a wide range of special "wide" shoes and boots, for those who need this.
I tried some of them and found that the standard-width is wide enough for me.

The next brand to recommend is Hanwag, they offer boots and shoes specially designed for people who suffer from bunion.

I don't know if you can get those brands in the US, but I think you'll find them in Canada.
Hanwag do have a sales-representative in Canada:
https://www.hanwagboots.ca/

Roland
Buen Camino!

 

[Cariad]

Oh haven’t tried those and I checked out the site they look pretty nice I’ll certainly be looking into those Roland. Thanks again,
Wendy

 

[NanaEL]

Hi I am Wendy walking Camino end of May with my hubby . Older pilgrims with ‘adventurous spirits’. This will be our first Camino so have few quick questions. Ideas or comments on either good alburgues or next up for better sleep. Note we are also wanting to continue the Camino spirit of community and all the Camino offers when I say this. Also anyone found good pair WIDE walking shoes as I’ve been trying so many for weeks but seems WIDE widths are hard to find??? Presently trying Keene ! Thanks to everyone ! We are excited.

Hi Wendy, I too will be walking my first Camino in September. My Podiatrist prescribed for me Hoka Bondi - they come in wide width. I use orthopedic inserts and have foot problems ... I just purchased a new pair to make sure I break it in while also using by older (very unused) pair! Buen Camino!

 

[Delphinoula]

Hi Wendy, I too will be walking my first Camino in September. My Podiatrist prescribed for me Hoka Bondi - they come in wide width. I use orthopedic inserts and have foot problems ... I just purchased a new pair to make sure I break it in while also using by older (very unused) pair! Buen Camino!

Hoka Bondi please tell more I don’t know what mine are called?

 

[KayVee]

I tried a lot of shoes and ended up mostly wearing sandals (with socks - high fashion, I know!) on the Camino. Ecco Offroad sandals. It survived 800k fine.

 

[Cariad]

Hi Wendy, I too will be walking my first Camino in September. My Podiatrist prescribed for me Hoka Bondi - they come in wide width. I use orthopedic inserts and have foot problems ... I just purchased a new pair to make sure I break it in while also using by older (very unused) pair! Buen Camino!

 

[Cariad]

That’s such good info and I’m so grateful to you all for responding. I shall swing into action as we are already training some 5 weeks already still in my new balance. Thanks so much !