The live music industry is set to have its long-awaited, complete comeback this year. According to Nylon’s list of 2022 music festivals, some major headliners are going to be there for Coachella, Lollapalooza, the So What?! Music Festival, and the Hangout Music Festival this year, covering EDM, indie, rock, and other genres.
And even if the coronavirus might yet put a damper on these plans, everyone is hopeful that these mega-festivals could be a highlight of their spring calendar.
Naturally, one of the most fun parts of planning is choosing your best clothes and shoes to impress fellow festival-goers.
Maybe it’s a good time to get one of the Best Matching Couple Tattoos, with very subtle and cool designs based on initials or cartoons to round out any edgy or boho look. For the most part, however, seasoned festival-goers know that you need to be a little practical with what you pack.
The location and time of year can make the weather forecast a little wonky, while the type of ground — field, beach, or street — may force you to adjust your choices accordingly.
Shoes, of course, are a key feature of your festival outfit because you’d be walking around on said field/beach/street for a full day or longer.
It’s good to have sturdy options in order to prevent too much wear-and-tear as you move through the crowds.
Here are four of our top festival footwear types to pack:
High-tops
Sneakers are the safest option for festivals, although there are a few caveats. White shoes will automatically get dirty, unless you opt to wear a ratty pair.
Some sneakers are also not comfortable enough to get you through the day, like slip-on styles with a super flat sole. High-tops are a festival classic for a reason, because they keep your feet safe and sound.
They also have an iconic, visual appeal. Case in point, sneaker shoe company Converse developed their “All Star” canvas basketball kicks in 1920, which have since been used as a sign of individuality and self-expression — synonymous with the music scene. Their Core Hi model would look amazing with denim; just add some inserts if you feel you need more support.
Skater kicks
Skater kicks are low-top shoes that are the flat standard models originally used by skateboarders, and have since been appropriated by the festival scene. The lower cut means the shoe is more lightweight.
Although there isn’t much padding in the ankle area like the high-tops, you do get more cushioning and dampening with the highly-developed insoles.
One of our top skater-type picks is the Nike Dunk Low “Sun Club”. With its multicolor look, woven-like material, and tropical graphic, it completely captures the fun spirit of attending a music festival.
Plus, its brown Grind Rubber outsole gives the shoe a sustainable element, as this is made from recycled materials. Of course, even the most comfortable and cool shoes can cause blisters in the first few wears.
Be sure to ‘break your final option in’ before heading to a festival.
Boots
Cowboy boots, modern booties, and wellingtons are shoes you can trust to prevent your feet from getting muddy, dusty, wet, or injured during a festival. If it’s not too hot to wear them, they’re perfectly versatile for your outfits as well.
After all, what is a festival without Doc Martens combat boots? Their 1460 model comes in multiple colors, including the indie-grunge favorite cherry red.
Doc Martens are slip-resistant with a durable air-cushioned sole, and are really easy to maintain. Plus, they look cool and edgy when paired with a denim jacket or oversized flannel. If you’re not into wearing boots, it’s highly recommended to pack a waterproof pair anyway, in case of a storm.
Strappy Sandals
Sandals are a very bohemian option, perfect for hot and humid festivals. However, they do come with a few downsides. Sandals don’t offer much support, and you’ll end up walking in mud if it rains.
There’s also a good chance your toes may have a bad run-in with the crowd. If you’re planning to use sandals, proceed with caution; it’s best to wear them when you’re lounging around the campsite.
There are different brands of sandals that can suit your feet.
Teva makes sport-focused footwear for hikers and walkers, so their models are lightweight and supportive. Choose sandals that stay fully in place, like those with a gladiator design.
Avoid strappy sandals that need to be laced up or re-tied throughout the day — buckles are your best friend.
