Nearby places

Choosing the Right Shoes for a Day Around Portland

The places on this list cover a surprising range of ground, and the shoes that feel fine for an hour browsing the aisles at Powell's may not be the best choice for an afternoon on the trails of Forest Park. Planning your footwear around the kind of day you have in mind makes exploring the city far more comfortable.

Downtown and the waterfront

Pioneer Courthouse Square, the Portland Art Museum and the Saturday Market along the Willamette are mostly paved and easy to walk between, but a full day downtown can add up to many miles. A cushioned everyday sneaker with a supportive heel works well here. Museum floors are hard, and market days often mean hours on your feet, so softer midsoles help more than you might expect. Portland's rain is famously persistent, so leather or water-resistant uppers are worth considering for much of the year.

Parks and trails

Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, and its trails can be muddy, root-covered and slick after rain. Trail runners or light hiking shoes with a lugged outsole give far better grip than city sneakers. Washington Park is home to gardens and paved paths, but it is also hilly, so comfortable shoes with decent traction are a sensible middle ground.

Crossing the river

Tilikum Crossing is a bridge for transit, cyclists and pedestrians, with no private cars allowed. It is a pleasant way to walk between the west and east sides. If you are heading out toward the athletic brand campuses in North Portland, or simply exploring on foot, a versatile pair you can wear all day is ideal.

Getting the fit right before you go

New shoes are best broken in on short outings before a long day out. Our size guide explains how to measure your feet and allow room for thicker socks in colder months. If you want fresh ideas for the season, browse our new arrivals. Opening hours and access for each place can change, so check their official information before you visit.