Comfy Footwear For Comfy Travel

Mindanaoan Meets World
by: Maria Irene Aserios

As a frequent traveler, it’s important for me to pack footwear that’s functional, versatile and light. More often than not, I tend to bring just two pairs – one that I could wear during most of the trip (and especially during those long, agonizing waiting-at-the-airport moments) and another one for specific segments of the trip (perhaps a pair of high heels if I’m supposed to speak before a crowd, boots if the weather’s cold at the country I’m set to travel to, aqua shoes if it’s a beach day or rubber shoes if I want to hit the hotel gym).

Bottomline is – the footwear that I need to bring should not only be purposeful but also comfortable at the same time.

I love wearing flip-flops so a pair of Havaianas from Spruce is a staple in my luggage. My current fave is the pair I assembled during the recent Make Your Own Havaianas 2015 event. I even used “Aloha” and “Beach Bum” pins. I’m a certified beach baby, after all! Get your Havaianas pairs at Spruce. They have branches at Lim Ket Kai and Centrio in Cagayan de Oro and in Ozamiz, Pagadian, Butuan, Iligan and Valencia, Bukidnon.

Another one I like to bring during travels is my pair of Sanuk. Sanuks may look like shoes but no, sir, they aren’t. These are sandals, believe it or not. Founded in 1997, California-based footwear brand Sanuk has earned critical acclaim for its signature “Never Uncomfortable” footwear. These days, Sanuk has evolved and now offers a variety of styles including the Yoga Mat sandal collection and the Sidewalk Surfers. Sanuk is located at the 2nd Floor of Centrio Mall.

For runners, gym rats or just simple health buffs, the Zoot training and racing shoes are heaven for your feet. Not only are they made of quality and breathable materials, they look pretty cool and colorful, too! Sprint Multisport Store, located at Corrales Avenue corner Chavez Street, CDO, is the official distributor of Zoot. Call (088) 8564887 for inquiries.

Meanwhile, my latest find is the Wakai. Available at Res|Toe|Run at Centrio, Wakai espadrilles are flexible and offer anti-slip outsoles. Another cool thing about this pair? It has bamboo charcoal insoles that have anti-bacterial properties. The insole traps moisture and perspiration thus keeping feet dry. Really ideal for people with active lifestyles like me!