Festival Fashion: How to Pick the Right Pair of Shoes to Wear
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
With festival season upon us, you can’t neglect one of the most important parts of your look: the shoes. Not only do you want to look good, but you want to dress smart – after all, festivals are all day long, so comfort is key.
More from Rolling Stone
Maluma Unveils Bold Summer 2022 Royalty by Maluma Clothing Collection
These Are the Best Fourth of July Sales Worth Shopping Today [Updating]
What Are the Best Festival Shoes?
The best festival shoes should be comfortable and versatile, about to take you from stage to stage easily, whether you’re running to make your favorite artist’s set time, or just standing in line for the merch booth. Of course, you probably don’t want to wear your most expensive pair. Often shoes get dirty at festivals, whether it’s from the dirt, sand, grass stains, or mud. With that in mind, we looked for shoes that are stylistically classic and versatile, comfortable, and equipped for rain or various terrain.
Can You Wear Sandals to a Festival?
The answer is yes but proceed with caution. You’re around a lot of people, so if someone steps on you, that can seriously hurt. Plus, weather permitting, you might find yourself deeply uncomfortable if it rains and you’re walking in mud with open-toe shoes. If rain is highly unlikely in the forecast, a comfortable sandal with strong support and cushioning can work. Overall, we recommend trying to stick to a sneaker or boot.
Below, we picked out the best festival shoes for men and women. From sneakers, to boots and sandals, you should be comfortable and set for a long day at the festival of your choice.
1. Dr. Martens 1461 Smooth Leather Platform Shoes
SPONSORED
Dr. Martens
What’s a festival without Dr. Martens? Available in a classic burgundy, the 1461 loafers are timeless for both men and women. They’re extremely durable with an air-cushioned sole. They’re also slip-resistant and have easy care maintenance. Just wipe away dirt with a damp cloth. You can keep the smooth leather shiny or scuffed for a more rugged look.
2. Vans Checkerboard Slip-On Shoes
Vans
A classic pair of Vans’ slip-ons is beyond easy to walk in and ideal for festivals. They’re simple enough to wear with everyone from jeans to shorts to dresses, but they have supportive padded collars and rubber waffle outsoles for strong grip. These unisex shoes are also widely-known to be super comfortable. At around $50 per pair, you don’t have to worry about getting an expensive pair of shoes dirty either.
3. Archive Paint Splatter Chuck 70 Unisex High Top Shoe
Converse
Like Vans, you’re bound to see Converse at a festival – rain or shine. The Archive Paint Splatter design is perfect for this event because if your kicks get dirty, the dirt or sand will blend right in with the paint. If you mind the white getting dirty (it actually doesn’t look bad if the dirt is dusty), opt for the black color-way.
4. Teva Hurricane XLT2
Zappos
Teva specializes in sporty sandals for walkers and hikers. The vegan Hurricane XLT2 is crafted with an EVA foam midsole, so it’s comfy, lightweight, and supportive with the movement of the foot. It also has a contoured footbed for added comfort. The sandals come in various colors and patterns suitable for the festival mood. Plus, the hook-and-loop closures make them easy to put on and adjust. Overall, Zappos reviewers give them five stars – and we concur.
5. Hunter Refined Stitch Detail Chelsea Boot
Zappos
If it’s a rainy festival day, waterproof Hunter boots are a great choice. This pair is style-savvy with detailed stitching for more edge. While they look sleek and cool, they’re not without proper functionality. They’re made with extra chunky EVA soles for grip and support, and polyester lining is included for comfort. Go for these if you don’t want the basic rain boot.
6. Birkenstock Milano – Leather Soft Footbed (Unisex)
Zappos
Birkenstock’s unisex Milano sandal is another sandal option if the weather is nice. The heel strap provides more stability, which is better for an all-day event on your feet. The soles are soft and lightweight thanks to the EVA construction. The best part about a Birkenstock sandal is its contoured cork footbed, lined with suede. It provides amazing comfort as it conforms to the shape of your foot and features pronounced arch support, a deep heel cup, and plenty of room at the toe box. We’ve worn the legendary design of Birkenstock’s footbed, and we agree that its construction does what it says.
7. Timberland 6″ Premium Waterproof Boot
Zappos
Timberland’s waterproof ankle boots combine practicality with style. They’re also constructed with an Anti-Fatigue midsole that uses geometric cone support to provide shock absorption and ultimate comfort while standing. If you’re going to be at a rainy outdoor event, these should be your go-to.
8. New Balance Classics 997H
Zappos
On an ideal dry weather day, you can sport the New Balance Classics 997H. The retro sneaker is both comfortable and stylish. They’re suitable for walking, as they have ENCAP midsole technology for support and durability and ABZORB midsole for cushioning and absorbing impact. If you opt for these, just be sure to spray your kicks with water and stain repellent so they’re easy to wipe clean.
Best of Rolling Stone
