As a sister missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, one of the most important decisions you’ll make when preparing for your mission is what shoes to bring! Your shoes will be your daily companions, so choosing the right ones is essential for comfort, practicality, and adherence to mission guidelines. Depending on your mission location, some guidelines may vary regarding acceptable footwear, especially when it comes to open-toed shoes. This blog post will help you navigate these options, offering a selection of durable and mission-appropriate shoes—from oxford-style shoes to sandals—that will keep your feet comfortable and your outfit compliant with mission standards.
It is important to buy a variety of styles of shoes. Most missions will require shoes for all 4-seasons. Bringing a pair of sturdy oxfords, warm boots, and summer sandals are all necessities. It is also important to invest in good quality shoes the first time. Missionaries breakthrough shoes more often than you’d think, so choosing the best ones the first time will save a lot of money in the mission field!
The biggest piece of advice I could give is to stick to reliable brands. Doc Martens, Birkenstocks, etc. Though the prices will clearly be more expensive, they are well worth the cost. Trust me!
1. Doc Martens Oxford Shoes or Mary Janes
Why They’re Great: Doc Martens are known for their durability, comfort, and stylish appearance. The oxford shoes or Mary Janes are classic and versatile, suitable for various missions. Every sister missionary brings these on their missions, and they always last! They are made with high-quality leather, providing long-lasting wear and solid arch support.
Pros:
- Great for long hours of walking.
- Formal enough for dressy occasions, but still sturdy and practical.
- Leather material molds to your feet over time, making them incredibly comfortable.
Considerations:
- May require a bit of breaking in, but once they do, they become very comfortable.
- On the heavier side, so they take up a lot of weight in your luggage.
Product Recommendation:
Dr. Martens Unisex-Adult 1461 Slip Resistant Oxford Shoes – Classic, stylish, and durable. Perfect for sister missionaries in cooler climates. Dr. Martens Women’s 8065 Mary Jane – Same shoe, but slightly different style.
2. ECCO Slip-on Sneaker
Why They’re Great: ECCO shoes are known for their comfort with a more casual look. The shoes have a professional appearance, but the feel of a tennis shoe. If you are looking for shoes that are slightly more casual-looking than Doc Martens, then these are the way to go. They look similar to vans, but many mission presidents don’t allow their missionaries to wear vans while proselyting.
Pros:
- Soft leather that conforms to your feet, ensuring comfort throughout the day.
- Lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for year-round wear.
- Stylish and professional enough for proselyting.
Considerations:
- Not as waterproof as other options, depending on the style.
- Less suited for extreme weather or rough terrain.
Product Recommendation:
ECCO Women’s Soft 7 Woven Slip On 2.0 Sneaker – comfortable and more casual proselyting shoe.
3. Birkenstock Tokyo/Clogs Leather
Why They’re Great: These shoes are the perfect mix between close-toed shoes and sandals. They allow missionaries to wear sandal-like shoes even if their mission rules don’t allow them. These will be a lifesaver in the hot summers when you don’t want to wear your Doc-Martens.
Doc Martens has a similar shoe style. The Birkenstock clog is less warm and will be better in summer heat. If you are purchasing this type of shoe as your summer shoe, I would recommend the Birkenstocks over the Doc Martens.
Pros:
- Birkenstocks are known for being durable and long-lasting.
- Perfect for warm weather conditions.
- Incredibly comfortable, and they mold into your foot for extra comfort.
Considerations:
- Not waterproof.
- Open design, so heels could get dirty easily.
Product Example:
Birkenstock Tokyo/Clogs Leather Super Sole Black – Durable and airy for summer weather.
4. Blundstone Boots
Why They’re Great: Blundstone boots are known for their rugged, durable construction, making them perfect for missions in areas with rough terrain or inclement weather. Whether you’re serving in a rural area or a place with unpredictable weather, these boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable. The slip-on design also makes them easy to wear, and they require minimal maintenance.
Pros:
- Highly durable and built for tough conditions.
- Comfortable and supportive, even for all-day walking or standing.
- Waterproof, perfect for rain or snow.
Considerations:
- Bulky, which can make them less ideal for hot, humid climates.
- The more casual look may not fit every mission’s dress code.
Product Example:
Blundstone Original Series Unisex Chelsea Boots– A go-to boot for missionaries who need comfort and toughness for outdoor or rural missions.
5. Hunter Chelsea Rain Boot
Why They’re Great: If you’re serving in a mission area that experiences a lot of rain, like the UK or parts of the Pacific Northwest, a pair of wellies (rain boots) is a must-have. Hunter Boots keep your feet dry and comfortable while walking through puddles or wet terrain. They’re also easy to clean, making them low-maintenance.
Pros:
- Waterproof, ideal for very wet weather conditions.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Considerations:
- Not the best for hot climates, as they don’t offer much breathability.
- Can be heavy and bulky if worn for long periods.
Product Example:
Hunter Women’s Original Chelsea Rain Boot – Classic, stylish, and durable rain boots that will keep your feet dry on those rainy days.
6. Birkenstock Sandals with Backstrap
Why They’re Great: While open-toed shoes aren’t allowed in all missions, some missions (especially in warmer climates) may permit sandals with a backstrap. Birkenstocks are a favorite for missionaries serving in warmer areas, as they offer superior arch support and comfort, along with a backstrap for stability. They are also incredibly durable and will last years after your missionary service.
Pros:
- Known for providing excellent arch support and comfort, ideal for long days on your feet.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Adjustable straps make them customizable to your foot shape.
Considerations:
- Open-toe design may not be allowed in every mission.
- May take some time to break in for optimal comfort.
Product Example:
Birkenstock Milano Sandal – Comfortable, supportive, and stylish sandals are perfect for warmer climates where open-toed shoes are acceptable.
7. Chacos Sandals
Why They’re Great: Chacos sandals are a popular choice for missionaries serving in tropical or outdoor-oriented environments. These sandals feature adjustable straps for a secure fit, along with a supportive footbed designed for all-day wear. They’re great for walking long distances or outdoor proselyting, and the thick tread makes them suitable for rough terrain. If you want sandals to last a long time, and also be worn on preparation day outdoor activities such as hiking, you need to bring Chacos!
There are many different styles of straps on Chacos. I highly recommend the straps that don’t wrap around your big toe. I used (and LOVED) the Bandez/Cloud Sandal. It had an extra strap for extra support, and it didn’t wrap around my big toe.
Pros:
- Exceptionally durable and great for hiking or outdoor activities.
- Adjustable straps for a perfect fit.
- Can be used on preparation days for outdoor activities and on proselyting days.
Considerations:
- Open-toe design may not be allowed in every mission.
- Not as professional looking.
Product Example:
Chaco Women’s Bandedz/Cloud Sandal – Comfortable, adjustable, and designed for outdoor adventures, ideal for warmer climates and rugged terrains.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Shoes for Your LDS Mission
Selecting the right shoes for your mission isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about complying with mission rules and ensuring you can be effective in your proselyting work. When choosing shoes, consider the climate, terrain, and dress code of the area where you’ll be serving. In general, mission guidelines will allow shoes that are sturdy, modest, and comfortable. Always check with your mission president or mission guidelines for specifics about whether open-toed shoes or sandals are acceptable in your area.
Whether you’re walking the streets of a bustling city or hiking through the countryside, having the right footwear can make all the difference in your comfort and effectiveness. Good luck with your mission preparation, and may your feet carry you well in your service!
