Travel Skills: If the Shoe Fits ...
One of the most important decisions you'll make, and one that can create the biggest dilemma is what shoes to take with you on the trip to Italy. It is imperative that "the shoe fits" and supports your feet. Remember that you will be walking on uneven cobblestones at times.
When I first started traveling to Italy 14 years ago, the only people that wore athletic shoes were Americans. The Italians place emphasis on style. The key to the shoe dilemma is finding comfort and support with a little style thrown in.
Over time Italians have become more casual and wear a type of athletic shoe, but never the bright white, wide-soled athletic shoes that we sport here in the United States. With that said, our American athletic shoes provide great comfort and support. So here is my suggestion: If you choose to go with a true athletic shoe, chose a solid color shoe in any color but white.
What Shoes to Wear
I've compiled the following list of comfort/walking shoes that are worth checking out:
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Shoe Shopping
It's not too early to start online shoe shopping to get ideas. I've listed several online stores. Select the Comfort and/or Walking shoe category to look for shoes that provide comfort with the requisite support.
I love Zappos. They provide free shipping on new orders and returns. Zappos accepts returns up to 365 days from the date of purchase, granted the shoes don't show signs of wear. In other words, try them on and prance in front of the mirror on a carpeted surface.
Online shopping provides the biggest number and variety of comfort/walking shoes. The Walking Company and Nordstrom have physical locations with a good supply of comfort/walking shoes if you're not an online shopper.
I normally travel with a pair of comfort/walking sandals that have a stylish element that are comfortable for day use, but can double at night with a dress, skirt, or dressier trouser for dinner. Additionally I have a pair of comfort/walking closed shoes for cooler weather and dare I say rain. Last but not least, don't forget the ubiquitous thong. They are great to wear in your room, the bathroom, out to the pool, etc.
Best Advice on Shoes
My final words of advice concerning shoes and walking:
Don't forget to "wear in" your shoes before the trip.
Watch where you are walking to avoid uneven pavement and potholes.
Pick up your feet when walking to avoid shuffling and catching a toe on uneven pavement.
Don't walk close to the edge of curbs.