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With unpredictable weather that can go through all four seasons in one day, readers often discuss the best shoes to wear in Scotland. Take a look at some practical and stylish reader picks that’ll keep your feet dry and comfy as you explore this beautiful country!
Best Shoes for Walking Around Scotland
Table Of Contents
Wondering what shoes to wear in Scotland? Whether exploring the cities or getting lost in nature, you’ll want to make sure your shoes are sturdy and ultra-comfortable. Scotland is notoriously rainy year-round, so most readers say that at least one pair of waterproof shoes is a must!
One reader reports, “Having lived in Scotland for a couple of years, I would definitely say bring waterproof shoes. You may be lucky and have minimal rain, but it could also rain every day. There can be four seasons in one day!”
The Sorel Emelie III Waterproof Boots can handle Scotland’s weather and terrain
You’ll most likely be spending a lot of time outside and will be trekking over cobblestone streets, dirt trails, and hills, so look to supportive shoes with great traction. Readers say that sandals aren’t very practical – even in the summer months – with one reader saying, “I live in Scotland, and I think my sandals come out once in a year if we’re lucky.”
In the spring and summer, readers suggest sneakers for day-to-day, hiking shoes if you plan on hitting the trails or going on nature walks, and a pair of flats for nicer occasions. In the fall and winter, a cute pair of waterproof boots are ideal, plus a pair of hiking shoes for active days.
Shoes are important, but don’t forget the rest of your travel outfits! The best clothing items to pair with your shoes for Scotland is comfortable jeans, fleece lined leggings, cashmere or merino wool sweaters, thermals to layer under clothes in the winter, and a waterproof rain jacket for the unpredictable weather.
If you need more packing help for Scotland, these posts might help:
- What to Pack for Scotland
- Waterproof Jackets for Rain in Scotland
- Best Walking Shoes for Europe
- Waterproof Boots for Winter in Scotland
- Top Active Shoes to Wear in Scotland
Now, our readers share their tried and true shoe picks for visiting Scotland — take a look!
Tip: When it comes to shoes, it’s vital for feet to feel comfortable at all times. Readers swear by shoe inserts to help boost support for long periods of walking!
Best Boots for Scotland
Boots are a perfect shoe option for Scotland year round, as the temps won’t get too extreme on either end, though rain is a constant. Fall and winter in Scotland can be quite chilly and will be especially rainy and windy, so a great pair of waterproof boots will be your best friend!
One reader says, “When it rains, you feel it. Boots will keep you steady, dry, and warm in the uneven terrain and the sidewalks.” Rather than rubber rain boots, readers suggest sturdy and supportive boots that you can do lots of walking in. These picks are all amazingly comfortable, waterproof, and cute, too!
Ugg Ashton Waterproof Boots
These sleek UGG Ashton boots are a great pick for Scotland! They’re constructed with quality leather that’s fully waterproof, and both the sealed seams and elastic goring help to keep your feet warm and dry. The slightly chunky outsole not only gives it a cool factor but amazing traction, too.
And to top it all off, they have such a sleek and stylish look that’ll pair well wil any ensemble!
One reader says, “Wore them throughout Europe in winter. Very comfortable and were waterproof.”
Sorel Emelie III Ankle Waterproof Boots
For a boot that can take you from a nature walk to a night out, readers highly recommend the Sorel Emelie III boots! This stunning pair has it all: they’re waterproof and highly durable with a supportive, cushioned footbed. Readers say they’re great for walking long distances in, too.
One reader who took these to Scotland reports, “My Emelie’s were perfect. We had all the weather, including wet, blowing hail!! They were waterproof, comfy, and dressy enough that I could wear them on nicer outings. We hiked Glencoe and Arthur’s Seat and did some light Highlands explorations, and my feet were well prepared.”
Find out why our readers vote Sorel as a top travel footwear brand, and take a look at their top picks for sneakers, sandal and boots!
Shop: Amazon
Dr. Martens 2976 Leonore Chelsea Boot
Dr. Martens 2976 Leonore chelsea boots are the perfect adventure boot, delivers high fashion, comfort, and style and are weatherproof. Goodyear welt construction where the upper and sole are heat-sealed and sewn together with the classic Z-welt stitching for long-lasting durability and flexibility.
Whether you’re walking around the highlands or strolling through historical sites in Edinburgh, this pair has quite a fun, edgy look packaged in comfort!
A reader says, “I found out I had to spend two weeks in Europe during the winter and ordered these in a pinch. Best. Decision. Ever! They are comfortable, warm, and weatherproof. They survived the snow, ice, and rain. They are also very easy to dress up and down.”
Shop: Amazon
Blundstone BL566 Ankle Bootie
Walking around in these Blundstone BL566 waterproof boots, you won’t have to worry about rain, mud, or even snow in Scotland! Equal parts outdoorsy and stylish, readers love how versatile these boots are! The cushioned footbed makes them extra comfortable, plus they’re easy to take on and off with the stretchy elastic goring.
One reader says, “I debated buying these boots because they are expensive, but I did and I’m so glad. Totally worth the money. About one week after buying them, I took them to Europe— walked all day, hiked in nature, went to dinner, danced, and these shoes held up and were comfortable. And, I love them for everyday stuff too. Great boots! I highly recommend.”
Ankle boots are some of the most versatile shoes for travel. Find out our readers’ picks for the best black ankle boots for traveling!
Best Sneakers for Scotland
Readers agree that a pair of good walking shoes for Scotland trips are a staple, especially in the spring, summer, and fall! Comfort is key, as you’ll no doubt be doing tons of walking. You’ll also want to pick a sturdy option that has great traction, as Scotland’s rainy and misty weather can make the ground quite slick.
One reader simply states, “Take your most comfortable sneakers!” These following sneakers are crazy comfy, grip the ground well, and have lots of style, too.
Shop: Allbirds
Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles
You’ll love these Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles as you wander through the city streets, explore castles, or take a walk through the countryside. Not only are these sneakers super cute, but they’re waterproof and made of cozy merino wool which’ll keep your feet warm yet let them breathe. To top it off, they’re moisture-wicking, odor-reducing, have great support, and have solid traction, too!
A TFGer raves, “These changed my life. Super comfy and warm, and kept my feet dry in rain and snow. They have great traction for slippery surfaces and cobblestones.”
Don’t get caught in the rain without a pair of our readers top picks for the best waterproof sneakers!
Shop: Nordstrom | Moosejaw | Sorel
Sorel Out N About III
When rain is in the forecast, but you have sights to see, throw on these Sorel Out N About III waterproof sneakers, and you’ll be set! Readers say they’re some of the best walking shoes for Scotland.
The non-slip outsole will keep you sturdy as you walk around, while the molded, memory foam insole will keep your feet happy. And in addition to their durability and excellent protection from the elements, they manage to be lightweight and breathable, too!
A reader shares, “I LOVE these shoes! I got my first pair for a Scotland trip several years ago. They are all-day comfortable, and my feet never got wet.”
Take a look at our list of the most recommended white sneakers for long days on your feet!
Ecco Soft 7
When readers ask for shoe recommendations for Scotland, Ecco always comes highly suggested! The Ecco Soft 7s are their particular favorite, made of high quality leather with soft foam insoles and a flexible, lightweight feel that makes them a dream for long bouts of walking.
Their sleek, classic design will elevate your sightseeing looks and pair well with everything from jeans to dresses!
One reader raves, “I just returned from a two-week trip to Europe and wore my Ecco Soft 7s. They’re very comfortable and stylish. I wore them from the moment I got up to the moment we returned to the hotel, and my feet never hurt. Love them!”
Here are even more of our readers favorite Ecco styles including sandals, sneakers, and flats.
Best Slip Ons for Scotland
A pair of slip on sneakers is perfect for exploring Scotland in the spring and summer months. These picks are lightweight and easy to wear but still sturdy and supportive enough for some serious walking! Plus, being able to slip your shoes on and off is super convenient for rainy travels or if you’re changing outfits quickly.
Shop: Walmart
Skechers Go Walk Joy
If you’re looking for ultimate comfort that feels like you’re walking on clouds, the Skechers Go Walk Joy shoes won’t let you down! These are a major reader favorite for travel, offering great arch support, flexibility, and breathability all in one cute package! The simple, clean design makes them easy to style, too.
One reader says, “Sketchers are wonderful. Very light, and the cushioned sole is great when you’re going to be on hard surfaces all day, like cobblestones.”
TFG readers help us round-up the best Skechers walking shoes for women!
Shop: Amazon
Blondo Karen
Readers suggest these Blondo Karen waterproof shoes for Scotland not only because they’re sleek and comfy but because they keep feet nice and dry! Perfect for summer travel when you want to keep things light and breathable but will be experiencing some rain. And wearers say they can comfortably walk for miles in them!
They’re also classic and sleek and can go either sporty or dressy with wide leg jeans or ponte pants! One review says, “I LOVE these shoes. Super comfortable, and I can wear them all day long! They look great.”
Shop: Nordstrom | Dr. Scholl’s
Dr. Scholls Madison
A gorgeous exterior meets incredible comfort in these Dr. Scholl’s Madison slip ons! The leather outer is lined with soft microsuede, and the insole offers anatomical support and fantastic memory foam cushioning, so you can stroll around for hours and hours with ease. They also feature a comfy, padded collar, and the rubber soles can handle cobblestones and slippery surfaces.
One reader gives her review, “I love my Madisons. Wore them almost exclusively for three weeks in Scotland and wear them every day at home. I sprayed them with waterproof spray and have no issues in the rain.” They’re available in wide sizes, too!
Shop: Ryka
Ryka Echo Knit
Ryka’s Echo Knit slip on can handle both city streets and nature trails, equipped with killer traction and ample support. This sporty pair has an amazingly comfortable fit, with soft cushioning, arch support, a roomy toe, shock absorption, and tons of flexibility. Lightweight yet highly durable, these cuties can handle whatever the day’s adventures bring!
A satisfied reviewer says, “Walked around 18,000 steps per day for five straight days with no foot or knee pain at all! The arch support is good, and they’re cushiony and hug your foot, which is comfy. They dress up or down with leggings or dresses, so they’re great for travel!” They come in wide sizes, too!
Best Flats for Scotland
While Scotland is quite casual overall, a stylish pair of flats is always great to have for nicer dinners and evenings out on the town. And even though you may not be walking long distances in them, Scotland calls for sturdy and more robust shoes that’ll keep your feet comfy and supported as you stroll. These options are chic yet comfortable!
Shop: Nordstrom
Blondo Halo Loafer
Blondo pairs a timeless design with waterproof construction in the Halo loafer, offering a versatile shoe that you can wear in all weather conditions – and with any outfit, too! These penny loafers are perfect for nicer occasions paired with a skirt or midi dress, polished with a slightly chunky sole giving it a more modern feel. To top it all off, they’re non-slip, easy to care for, and have a cushy footbed!
One user shares, “Perfect fit, comfy, very nice leather. Loving these loafers!”
Check out these top loafers women LOVE that are both comfortable and stylish!
Shop: Taos
Taos Upward Loafer
Readers love the Taos Star sneakers for their amazing comfort, and these cute, leather Upward loafers are no different! The cushioned footbed offers great support, and the canvas lining is both breathable and antimicrobial! The combination of different leathers gives them a unique look, and while they’re super pretty, they’re also quite resilient and will keep you sturdy when walking over uneven ground.
A wearer gives a glowing review, “I own four pairs of these shoes. They are the most supportive and comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned. I’m complimented every time I wear them!”
Shop: Rothy’s
Rothy’s The Flat
You can never go wrong with a classic black flat, especially when they’re really breathable and waterproof! Readers absolutely rave about Rothy’s ballet flats provide, and while they’re light and flexible, they’re impressively durable as well. TFGs have reported being able to do lots of walking in them!
What’s more, they’re packable in a suitcase, machine washable, and sustainably made from recycled plastic water bottles!
One traveler says, “I got these shoes to wear on a trip to England, Scotland, and Ireland. I wore them on the plane, walking around rainy, cobblestone streets and in grassy fields. I could rinse them in the tub, set them out to dry, and wear them for the next adventure. Easily packable, lightweight, comfy, stylish, and all-around a great shoe!”
Check out our Rothys reviews and find out why Travel Fashion Girl readers love them so much!
Best Hiking Shoes for Scotland
If you plan on taking advantage of the gorgeous trails, exploring the rugged landscapes, or just taking a lot of outdoor strolls, you’ll definitely want a solid pair of active shoes. These will be great year-round, as summers never get too hot, and winters aren’t usually too freezing.
Most readers (including Scottish locals) don’t recommend bringing sandals, as it’s unlikely they’ll be needed during your trip. Active shoes are a much more practical option! One reader says of her hiking shoes in Scotland, “I wore mine basically the entire time as they were waterproof and comfortable. If you’re traveling outside at all, I highly suggest them!”
These picks will keep your feet secure and supported on your outdoor adventures!
Merrell Moab 2 (Waterproof)
TFG readers love these Merrell Moab 2 waterproof hikers for their adventurous travels! Equipped with a contoured footbed that offers great arch and heel support, a protective toe cap, and a Vibram sole to grip the terrain, your feet will be more than ready to hit Scotland’s trails or hikes, even in the rain! They’re rugged but not too heavy, and the breathable mesh lining will keep things feeling fresh and cool as you explore.
One reader shares, “I just came back from a 10-day trip to Scotland. I brought my Merrell Moab hiking boots and wore those to hike around Skye. Loved them!” These come in wide sizes as well!
Keen Targhee 3
For exploring Skye’s Fairy Pools or climbing over misty mountains, these Keen Targhee 3 waterproof hiking shoes are a dream. Readers love these, highlighting their roomy toe box, snug yet comfy fit around the ankle, arch support, and incredible traction. This pair also offers a breathable lining paired with anti-odor technology to keep things ultra-fresh!
One reader says, “I wore my waterproof Keen hiking shoes for touring most days in Scotland.”
Shop: Backcountry | Columbia
Columbia Crestwood
This pair will definitely keep you grounded as you trek through Scotland’s picturesque countryside. The Crestwood womens hiking shoes keep the elements out with their solid, waterproof construction, balanced out with a breathable interior. They’re lightweight and really supportive, and the grippy sole will keep you stable.
A wearer reports, “Took these to Scotland, and they were phenomenal. Very comfortable. Highly recommend!” This pair is available in wide sizes, too!
Shoes for Scotland Product Comparison Chart
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What do you think are the best shoes for walking in Scotland? Share your top choices in the comments!
For more tips on what to pack for Scotland, please read:
- What to Pack for Trips to Scotland
- What to Wear in Scotland: Don’t Take the Wrong Clothes
- What to Wear in Edinburgh in Winter
- Clothing Tips for Traveling to Scotland in the Summer
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I wore the Merrill Siren 3 Waterproof shoe all over the British Isles this past June and they were great for city cobblestone walking and hiking. The were supportive & kept my feet dry. I did have to go up a half size from my regular size though. These will be a travel shoe favorite for years to come! I recommend them.
A chunky boot is my favorite, for the streets of Edinburgh.
Do you have any tall boot tips for thin calf’s? I have a really hard time finding any. I’m also very petite
Hi Anne-Marie, we do have some reader recommendations here that might help you in your search 🤞
https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/most-comfortable-knee-high-boots/
I wore Vionic booties all over Scotland! My feet never hurt and they stayed dry.
I spent almost three weeks this summer in Ireland, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. A simple pair of Nike sneakers or leather Cole Haan shoes were perfect.