Opinions

WALKING, WALKING, WALKING THROUGH WDW
By Kevin Nagata - May 24, 2001

With so many things to think about in planning your trip to WDW like different selections on parks, resorts, activities, restaurants and rides, you can overlook the very basics. Here are a few tips to make that first step enjoyable for your journey into WDW.... TAKE CARE OF YOUR FEET!

Disneyworld is huge. There are many parks to visit. Each park has a lot of rides and attractions. Since you are there for vacation, you may try to do everything and be everywhere. One thing for sure, you know you will do alot of walking, walking and more walking. Since this is a given, the best thing you can do is be prepared. Start off by buying the right shoe or sandals. This could make all the difference in the world. Comfortable shoes are the basic foundation you stand on. Break them in from 2 weeks to 1 month prior to your trip. Some shoes may even need up to two months to loosen up. Never wear new shoes to WDW. Shoes not properly worn could put a crimp in your vacation plans that you won't forget. I found hiking type of boots or shoes work best for me because I can scale up any type of terrain from parking lot pavement to the mountainous slopes of Tom Sawyers Island knowing that the traction is there. If it rains, I don't have to worry about my hiking shoes getting wet, and more importantly knowing my socks aren't soggy either. My brother, on the other hand prefers walking or running shoes because it still gives the comfort and support that it was made to do, but doesn't carry the heavy weight of hiking boots. Whatever type of shoe you select, the main thing to remember is to find a shoe that is comfortable for the long haul.

The next thing is to also add support for your feet in the shoe. These insoles slip into your shoe and cradles, cushions or massages your feet. They can be found at most pharmacy sections of Kmart or Wal-Mart. There are so many to chose from...find one that is right for you. The range varies with Dr. Scholls being the biggest supplier. You could look into heal pads, arch supports, acupressure nodules, insole shells or cushions. The most basic of these insoles include a simple cushion support in the sole, which add some padding in your shoe for shock absorption and may soak up some moisture. Neoprene insoles do the same thing but last longer and retain its shape better. Some have charcoal for odor absorption. There are magnetic therapy type of insoles, which in theory should increase circulation and blood flow in a given area to enhance the body's natural healing ability. My favorites are the gel foot inserts. The shock absorption is fabulous and they even have waves for extra cushioning and massage. These little extras can do wonders for a walking session through WDW. Wearing the right socks also help in support and absorption.

When you do your journey through the parks, let your feet tell you what is right or wrong. Make sure you allow for rest if your feet are aching. A simple zip lock bag in your pocket can easily be filled with ice later at a snack stand and act as a soothing refresher for your tired feet. First aid is definitely recommended if your feet are blistered. You may also want to carry moleskin for just this type of emergency.

I always travel with the minimum of a golf ball in my backpack to a maximum of those 3 wooden roller single foot type massagers (5"x6"x2") which I leave in the hotel room. These devices work well for foot massages after a long day of walking through WDW. They are also easy to carry around and can be used anywhere, even while viewing an event. Foot soaks in a tub are also relaxing and stimulating to get your feet well rested for another days itinerary.

It is very important to air out your shoes because accumulated moisture can cause odors, change the shape of your shoes and thus your walking pattern, wear out your shoes faster and eventually wreck your shoes. A better solution is to carry an extra pair to use every other day and alternate different pairs of shoes. You never know when a splash on a ride or a sudden downpour can turn wet shoes into a nightmare for the following days event.

Not having blisters on a vacation and feeling comfortable throughout your daily walks through the park attractions make it more enjoyable and worth the extra care.