Good shoes for grad school visits?

[metametis]

I'm planning on visiting some grad schools during their weekend recruiting events. I'm guessing these events consist of a mix of talking with professors, touring the campus/city and some other recreational activities. What are some good shoes that look formal enough to go with business casual clothes (to make a good impression when visiting with professors), but would be comfortable and sturdy enough for hikes and long walks across campus?

Would anyone like to share what kind of shoes they wore during their campus visits, or recommend any particular brand or style?

Also, are there usually breaks between activities where I could change clothes (to change from business casual for interviews to casual for a group hike, for example), or should I just wear clothes and shoes that would be appropriate for a broad range of activities?

[PhDreams]

I went to a recruiting event and I wore loafers. They worked well. Comfortable enough for the walk to campus from my hotel (about a 2 mile walk) and they passed the casual/formal test. Personal preference, I guess. Good luck!

Don't overthink it. Just wear whatever makes you feel confident.

[NinjaMermaid]

Hah! I visited my school in the dead of winter so my attire was a giant snow coat with giant snow boots. I guess this outfit was fine because I was accepted.

[TheLadyT]

Are you male or female? Male...not sure. Female: try Morrells, Clarks, or eccos. They are pricey, but they have comfortable versions of shoes that look dressy enough to wear with pants, yet are good for lengthy walks. I have a mary-jane type style in both black and brown, and they have made it through 4 years and still look brand new (and my feet no longer ache at the end of the day).

[socihealth]

Im a fan of the Gap City Flats (there are several other brands that make a similar shoe). They are those flats that can fold up and be stored in your bag. If you plan to bring a purse or tote, you can stow these in there and the make great walking shoes for across campus and going around town a few blocks. I wouldn't go hiking in them (they are not very durable) but they are great for city walking. The colors and fabrics make them suitable for almost any type of clothing.

[stephanopolis]

I agree with the lady T. I have a couple of pairs of Clarks and they're fantastic! What makes mine good for work/walking is: low heel, cushy bottom, rubber soles (I feel like this helps a lot) and yet they look professional and feminine.

[hungryhungryhipster]

I just wore my black Reeboks, especially since it was snowing. If they're gonna reject you because of your choice of shoes, why did they even waste their time inviting you for an interview in the first place?