Going to Scotland in May, thinking about picking up some waterproof shoes, should I? Recommendations?
I’m heading to Scotland in May and I’m considering getting some waterproof shoes. Do you think that’s a good idea? I’m leaning toward hiking shoes since they’re waterproof and provide more cushioning for added comfort. My wife and I will mostly be in Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, doing a lot of walking, so that extra cushioning is essential. We also want to fit in a short hike or two, which makes the waterproof feature even more important given the likelihood of rain.
I only plan to pack these shoes along with a nicer pair of leather boots, as I’d like to enjoy a nice dinner during our trip.
I checked out the Hoka Transport, Altra Timp 5s, and a few other options at the store earlier. Have any of you tried these? Any recommendations?
Sounds like an exciting trip! Waterproof shoes are definitely a good idea for Scotland, especially in May when the weather can be unpredictable. Since you’re planning to do a lot of walking in cities and a couple of hikes, going for waterproof hiking shoes with decent cushioning is a solid choice.
Among the options you mentioned, both Hoka and Altra have great reputations. The Hoka Transport offers excellent cushioning and is generally very comfortable for long walks, plus it’s lightweight. They also provide good traction, which is helpful if you decide to explore muddy or rocky trails.
The Altra Timp 5s are known for their wide toe box and cushioned feel, which can be really comfortable for long walks. They’re more of a trail shoe, so they should handle hikes well, but you might want to check how the waterproof feature performs in wetter conditions.
If you’re looking for more recommendations, you might consider:
Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX – These have great traction and waterproofing, plus cushioning, making them solid for both city walks and trails.
Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof – These are very comfortable and provide excellent support, plus they have a good reputation for being durable and waterproof.
Columbia Redmond Waterproof – They’re more budget-friendly and still provide good support and waterproof protection.
I would recommend trying on a few pairs to see which ones feel the best for you. Ensure they have enough room for your toes and provide good support since you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Enjoy your trip and the beautiful sights of Scotland!