Planning your Camino
Shoes and socks for the Camino de Santiago
Your feet are the Camino’s engine, and most blisters come from untested shoes or damp socks. Trail runners or boots, sizing, socks and lacing.
If one decision changes your Camino, it is footwear. With shoes your feet already know and good socks, most problems never appear.
Trail runners, boots or sandals
- Hiking shoes or trail runners: what you see most on the Camino. Light, breathable and enough for almost every route in spring, summer and autumn.
- Light boots: if you already walk in them, if your ankles turn easily, or for winter and muddy mountain routes.
- Hiking sandals: some walk the whole Camino in them in summer, but only if you are used to them.
More important than the type: break them in, at least 50–100 km over several days, some with your backpack.
Sizing
- Half a size bigger than usual: feet swell after hours of walking.
- Try them on in the afternoon, with the socks you’ll wear.
- Going downhill, your toes shouldn’t touch the front.
Socks
- Technical and seamless, never cotton: cotton holds sweat and rubs.
- Two or three pairs; change at midday if they get wet.
- Some use two layers (a thin liner underneath) to reduce friction: try it first.
Lacing
- Firm for descents, so your foot doesn’t slide forward.
- A bit looser over the instep if it presses: too tight there irritates the tendon. You can skip an eyelet.
In the evening
Flip-flops or sandals for the albergue: letting your feet breathe is half the care. Stuff wet shoes with newspaper overnight.
FAQ
Boots or trail runners for the Camino?
In most cases, broken-in hiking shoes or trail runners. Light boots if you already walk in them, or for winter and mud.
How many km should I break in my shoes?
At least 50–100 km over several outings, some with a loaded backpack.
What socks are best for the Camino?
Technical, seamless, not cotton. Two or three pairs.
Should I buy half a size up?
Yes, it is usual: feet swell after many hours of walking.
