When you are getting ready for your first college tour, don’t get so excited about the prospect of picking the right school that you completely forget about picking the right shoes. As I learned from touring one or two schools wearing sandals that were more for poolside lounging than campus treks (knowing that “This isn’t going to end well”) – Spoiler alert: it didn’t. A few blisters and an emergency Amazon overnight shoe delivery later, and I learned my lesson. So, if you’re wondering what to wear on college tours, the answer starts (and ends) with a comfortable pair of shoes. Let me save you some foot-related tragedies with this guide which includes both teen picks and parent options!
**This post contains affiliate links.** This means I may earn a commission should you chose to make a purchase using my link – but you’re in luck because I only post things I actually use and love!**
Boots: Best for Versatile Weather and Style
If you’re planning college tours during unpredictable weather, boots are your best friend. Your feet will stay dry, and you’ll look effortlessly put-together. Best of all, these are comfortable college tour shoes that won’t leave you limping by lunch.
Dr. Martens Rometty Fashion Chelsea Boots: Perfect for that teenage “I’m edgy but practical” look. Plus, platform soles mean no soggy feet!
Frye Melissa Chelsea Booties: These are as comfortable as they are chic. They handle unexpected downpours like a boss and go with practically anything from maxi dresses to jeans.
Sorel Cate Lace Waterproof Boots: Sorel has been a long-time favorite of mine (seriously, since I was like 12 I’ve had at least one pair in my closet), and the Cate comes in many styles, lace up, pull on, heeled, etc. Always a solid (and dry) choice.
Casual Sneakers: Everyday Comfort with a Fashionable Twist
Ah, casual sneakers — the MVP of college tour footwear. The beauty of sneakers is that they can take you from city streets to campus quad without missing a beat. Plus, they’re super easy to match with just about any outfit, which is a key selling point for fashion-conscious teens (and parents!). These are the best sneakers for college tours because they give you all-day comfort without sacrificing style.
Adidas Samba OG Sneaker: Cool, retro vibes that make you look like you’ve been effortlessly stylish since birth.
SuperGA 2750 Cotu Classic: Lightweight and breathable — a dream for those warmer tours. I have loved these since way before Kate made them famous.
New Balance 574 Core Sneaker: Perfect for when you want that mix of comfort and throwback style.
Veja Esplar Sneaker: If you want to look good and feel good about your eco-friendly choice, these maybe need a few wears to break in, but once you do they are worth it!
Nike Air Force 1: A little bulky but with enough cushioning to keep your feet happy after 10,000 steps. Bonus: your teen most likely already has these.
Athletic Shoes: Ultimate Support for Heavy Walking Days
Now, for those heavier walking days—you know, the marathon tours where you visit 3 colleges in one day (gulp)—athletic shoes are your go-to. These are the shoes that scream, “I’m here for business.” For athletic shoes, the goal is comfort first, style second. No one will notice if your sneakers are slightly less Insta-worthy when you’re the only one not wincing in pain by the end of the tour.
Hoka Clifton 9 Sneaker: With their unbeatable cushioning, you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds, even after those mile-long hikes across campus.
- Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Running Shoe: These may be made for running, but they’re ideal for those long college tours.
On Cloud 5 Sneaker: Super lightweight and stylish with just the right amount of bounce for campus treks. Lots of great colors too!
Slip-Ons and Loafers: Easy Style with All-Day Comfort
If you’re like me and love the ease of just slipping on shoes and going, slip-ons and loafers are the travel-friendly footwear option for college tours. They’re comfortable enough for walking yet stylish enough for those more formal campus visits.
Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafer: Polished enough for a campus interview but comfy enough to wear all day.
- G.H. Bass Lianna Super Lug Loafer: Perfect for adding a bit of edge to your outfit without sacrificing support.
- Rothy’s The Lug Loafer: These are not only eco-friendly but also incredibly comfortable.
Steve Madden Feather Loafer: Lightweight and cushioned, they’re a personal favorite for when you want that polished, academic look.
Sandals: Stylish Picks for Warmer Weather Tours
For those summer college tours, sandals are perfect—just make sure you pick ones that offer support, because flip-flops on a 10,000-step day is highly not-recommended. Trust me, the last thing you want to feel is every pebble underfoot while touring a campus.
Birkenstock Arizona BS Birko-Flor: Classic, supportive, easy to pack – and they’ll last forever. Most likely already in your teens closet.
Teva Universal Trail Sandals: Built for comfort and functionality, they’re a great option for more rugged campuses, can double as water shoes, and are easy to pack.
Nisolo Go-To Flatform Sandal: This sandal combines it all, functional yet refined, modern style, comfort and a bit of height. A great sandal to pack since it can be worn with almost anything.
Sorel Joanie IV Y Strap Wedge Sandal: Adds a little height without sacrificing any comfort, but since they have a chunky sole you may want to wear these on the plane so you don’t have to take up valuable suitcase space.
Flats: Sleek, Professional, and Comfortable for Dressier Campus Visits
If the school tour includes meetings or interviews, you might want to go with something a little dressier. Flats are a stylish option that won’t kill your feet.
Rothy’s The Point II Flats: Sustainable, stylish, and comfortable from the first step.
Birdies The Starling: Like walking on a cloud, but fancy.
Rockport Sadie Square Toe Slip-On Ballet Dress Flats: I feel like Rockport shoes are totally under-rated. These are stylish and comfortable – I promise, these are like wearing slippers!
Conclusion: Walk in Style and Comfort During Your College Tour
At the end of the day, college tours are about finding the right fit—for both your child and your feet. Whether you’re going for stylish boots or comfortable walking shoes, the key is to prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. After all, if you’re distracted by blisters, you might miss that amazing view of the ocean from the library. So, plan ahead, break in your shoes, and enjoy every step of the college search process. Happy touring!
Related Articles:
5 Best Cities for College Tours: Planning A Campus Tour Vacation
Leave a Reply