Footwear that will make the difference between adventure and disaster.
The safari shoes you take with you on an African trip can decide whether you’ll have an enjoyable experience or a painful one. Choose the wrong footwear, and you’ll count the minutes until you are back home to take them off. So, when going on a safari, you need to pay close attention to what you’re wearing so that you can enjoy the view and everything else. People may claim that you do not need special footwear in a safari, but we beg to differ. If you do not want to stay in camp in a pair of uncomfortable shoes, then this article will give you some hints.
1. What to Look For When Choosing African Safari Boots
There are many things to look for when considering shoes for safari. First of all, you will need to consider three factors.
- The quality of the shoes
- The flexibility of the shoes
- Where they would be used
For example, you can opt for sandals or boots, depending on the weather. The shoes need to be comfortable and fit your foot properly; otherwise, you might end up with blisters. Last but not least, the best shoes for safari need to be good quality – otherwise, you may find yourself in the middle of the safari, holding your shoes in your hands.
2. Best Safari Shoes for Women
Women are known to be more sensible on the feet, which is why their shoes need to be appropriate. Here are the best 5 options when it comes to safari shoes for women.
2.1. New Balance Women’s WL515 Summer Safari Running Shoe
No one stays in one place on a safari. These shoes are meant to be comfortable, and most of all, to fit. These shoes were recommended by most athletes as well, making them the most comfortable footwear for safaris.
Pros:
- Practical
- Stylish
- Comfortable
Cons:
- May not be durable
- Textile material
2.2. Skechers Performance Women’s Go Safari Walking Shoe
Stylish and comfortable, these shoes are some of the best safari shoes for women. Skechers offers quality when it comes to footwear, so you can be certain that it will last. They have a rubber sole and a soft lining, and they are comfortable and perfect for a safari walk.
Pros:
- Cushioning
- Lightweight
- Flexible
Cons:
- Synthetic
- May cause blisters if you choose the wrong size
2.3. Reef Woman’s Skyla Safari Flip Flop Sandals
If you are a fan of sandals, then these are the perfect choice for you. The footbed is made of thick leather with an anatomical arch support and a durable leather strap. Overall, they are made to be comfortable and let you enjoy your time.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
Cons:
- May take in dust or small rocks
2.4. KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boot
If you’re a fan of safari boots, then you need to give Keen a try. They’re made out of durable leather and a rubber sole that can withstand any terrain. They have a platform that measures around 1” and a waterproof membrane that is protective and breathable.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Comfortable and light
Cons:
- Can slide on wetland
2.5. Teva Women’s Northwater Sandal
These products fit the category of best safari sandals a woman can wear. Stylish and sturdy-looking, these shoes have a durable rubber sole and an EVA footbed for comfort. It can be synthetic or fabric, and it sports a Spider Original rubber for traction.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Water-friendly
- Durable
Cons:
- Top doesn’t stretch
- They’re not adjustable
3.Best Safari Footwear for Men
Just like women, men also have special needs when it comes to footwear. If you are a man looking for African safari boots or sandals, here are our suggestions for you.
3.1. Teva Men’s M Wander Lace Casual Leather Sneaker
These shoes are made out of fine imported leather and have the benefit of lace closure. Its rubber sole makes the shoe more comfortable, and the leather exterior grants it durability. These safari shoes are water-friendly, land-friendly and overall nature-friendly.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Little arch support
- Hard to fit at first
3.2. KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Sandal
For men who just love stepping into a comfortable pair of sandals, these are the best choice for them. Unlike those men’s safari boots, these shoes let your foot breathe. The outsole provides great traction, and the synthetic material allows the shoe to dry faster.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Textile and comfortable
Cons:
- Can keep odors
- It doesn’t maintain the tips of your toes warm
3.3. Kenetrek Men’s Safari Boot
While these shoes can cost a few extra bucks, they can make it up through quality. They’re made out of durable leather and packed with a rubber roles that enhances comfort and traction. Plus, the extra-padded soft collar also adds to the comfort of this wonderful safari boot.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Perfect for hiking
Cons:
- Can catch water
- It may take a while to break in
3.4. Palladium Men’s Tactical WPN Zip Rain Boot
These may be the best safari boots for the rainy season. The material can be either leather or synthetic, allowing the shoe to dry fast or to stop the water from entering altogether. It’s a combat-style rain boot with a comfortable rubber sole and an easy-to-use full-length side zipper.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Comfortable
- Durable
Cons:
- They need to be broken in
3.5. Reef Men’s Phantoms Flip-Flop
If you are a fan of flip-flops, then these are definitely the best safari shoes for you. While some men may prefer safari boots, others may want to be lightweight and go for sandals. These have a grippy EVA synthetic outsole and are made out of synthetic material that allows fast drying.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Soft
- Water resistant
Cons
- No arch support
- Narrow fit
4. Best Safari Footwear for Children
Children need to keep up with the adult’s pace, which is why their footwear determines if YOU need to fly back home or not. So keep in mind the best 5 footwear for children.
4.1. Dabuyu Safari Boy Kid Shoes
Every child wearing these shoes will be the pride of the safari. Cute and colored, these shoes will offer your child maximum comfort and flexibility. They will definitely be the perfect safari shoes for your trip.
Pros:
- Good traction
- Flexible
- Durable
Cons:
- May hold water
4.2. Walk Safari Boot LUX
If you want your child to go in style, these are the African safari boots for them. They’re made out of genuine leather which makes them comfortable to wear, with a side-zip closure and some fancy-looking stitching. The interior is also made of leather, which adds to the comfort.
Pros:
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Will need breaking in
4.3. Oakiwear Children’s Rubber Rain Boots
If you stepped in the middle of the rainy season, these are the shoes for your child. They are made entirely out of rubber, which keeps the water out and their foot dry. Plus, they have a cute safari design which every child will love.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Easy-on handles
- Good traction
Cons
- Can be cheaply made
- Durability questioned
4.4. Keen Seacamp II CNX Sandal
Fit for toddlers and small children, these shoes are very comfortable and come in many colors. They have a durable rubber sole and are made of a synthetic/textile material which allows the foot to dry if it catches water.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Easy to put on
Cons:
- Need breaking in
- Can be a tight fit
4.5. Teva Kids Nilch Water Shoe
Fit for children aged 4-8 years old, these shoes are synthetic-and-mesh, which makes them perfect for watery areas. They have a durable rubber sole with great traction and are some of the best slip-on safari shoes for children.
Pros:
- Easily dried
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons:
- Tough to get on at first
- Can have poor traction
5. Best Accessories for Safari Shoes
You have the shoes; now you just need the extras. Here are some hints:
5.1. ExOfficio BugsAway Hiker Crew Socks
Made with an insect shield technology that repels mosquitoes and other bugs, these socks can keep your foot ventilated and dry while providing arch support. Plus, they’re odor resistant and moisture wicking. Wear them with your safari boots and have fun.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Insect-repellant
- Snug
Cons:
- Questionable durability
5.2. Thick Round Athletic Shoelaces
A second pair of shoelaces for your safari Kenya boots can never hurt. As you keep taking on and putting off your shoes, the lace might break, and you’ll need an extra pair. Plus, if you need to tie something up, you’ll have them there as well.
Pros:
- Thick
- Designed for athletic use
- Stylish
Cons:
- May fray
- Some may say they are small
6. Maintaining Your Safari Shoes
Safari shoes are usually cleaned of dirt with a soft-wired brush. Don’t use hard cleaners; some mild soap will be more than enough. After you wear leather shoes, let them rest until you use them the next time so that they do not lose their shape.
7. Conclusion and Recommendations
Before buying your own pair of safari footwear, figure our which style fits you best and take into account the weather. Shoes like Teva, Keen or Reef are among the most popular when it comes to best shoes for an African safari, so just do some research and pick your model.
8. Some useful resources for planning your lifetime vacation:
- Safari Planning Recommendations: Best Safari Camera and Safari Camera Accessories, Best Safari Binoculars, Shoes for Safari, Safari Wear
- For Your Birding needs while on Safari: Bird Watching Binoculars, Bird Watching Camera, Birding Scopes
- Kilimanjaro Climbing Recommendations: Backpack for Kilimanjaro, Sleeping Bags for Kilimanjaro, Best Hiking Boots for Kilimanjaro Climb
- Checkout Safari resources for destination guides and FAQ for better planning.
Check Triperiod for complete list of things you will need to have a lifetime experience. Triperiod is your one place destination to everything, African safari.
*Link to Amazon website. Please see disclosure around our affiliate relationship.
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Tags: African safari, kenya, safari boots, safari shoes, Tanzania
