When people plan for Hajj, their attention usually goes to travel arrangements, documents, packing, and other preparations. Footwear is treated as a small detail, but during Hajj, it becomes one of the most important things.
You walk too much, you stand for a long time, and sometimes you don’t even realise how tired your feet are until the pain starts. From personal observation of hajj pilgrims, uncomfortable footwear can quickly turn a peaceful journey into a very tiring one for UK pilgrims.
Why best footwear matter for Hajj?
Hajj is not just like a normal travel where walking is done by choice. Tawaf also requires continuous walking around the Kaaba, and this is repeated many times.
Then there is a Sa’i, an action in Mina, and long distances covered by hajj pilgrims every day. The ground of harams can be slippery because they are very smooth, neat, and clean.
These kinds of floors put pressure on human feet due to their slippery nature, which is not good for pilgrims, especially elderly pilgrims or those not used to long walks. In the Hajj package 2026, UK pilgrims will experience the most blissful and rewarding pilgrimage.
Footwear for Men
For men, footwear during Ihram has certain rules that cannot be ignored. Men should opt for shoes that just cover the ankle.
Shoes that cover the top part of the foot are not allowed to be wornng hajj. That’s why many pilgrims choose simple sandals or slippers. These options are not only allowed but also practical.
Footwear for Women
While packing for hajj, women should not forget to pack their Bathroom slippers. keep easy to walk in slip-on shoes (like Crocs) for the majority of the time. Mostly, people don’t like Crocs, but after wearing them during the pilgrimage, they become fans. So keep corcs on my recommendation, they will be fantastic!
Also Trainers for longer walks or for visiting the Cave of Hira also help. Cotton socks are mandatory; they will keep your feet safe in the scorching heat. Slipper-socks to put on in the Haram: these make Tawaf and Sa’i incredibly easier on the feet.
What makes Footwear Comfortable
You don’t need to buy expensive and fancy shoes for hajj. As I mentioned earlier, hajj is a journey of long walks. Over several hours of walking, the softness of the soles helps reduce foot pain and soreness. Your heels don’t crack or feel uncomfortable during nonstop walking.
Also, light shoes are easy to carry all day. But if you are planning to purchase expensive, fancy shoes, don’t go for them; they will make your walk hectic and tiring. Another key feature to consider when purchasing shoes is breathability, especially in the hot and humid weather of Makkah.
Best Types of Footwear
Pilgrims usually prefer sandals that are open, simple, and easy to wear. They allow airflow and are usually suitable for Ihram. Flip-flops are also a common and great option, especially since you can wear them inside the Haram.
However, the cons of flip-flops are that they are not well-suited for several hours of walking. Therefore, I suggest avoiding flip-flops for long walks. Shoes with very thin soles can cause discomfort or irritation over time.
Some people choose sports-style sandals because they offer better grip and support, but care must be taken that they do not cover restricted areas of the foot during the Ihram.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is buying new footwear just before leaving for Hajj. Never pack new sandals for your hajj journey, as they are not comfortable and can cause blisters on your feet. I recommend that when you purchase new sandals, you wear them before your hajj pilgrimage.
This trick makes your shoes fit and comfortable on your feet. You can feel uncomfortable in your shoes, and they can get lost in the crowd, so don’t forget to carry an extra pair.
Footcare Tips
During the hajj journey, you must take care of your feet, just as you would purchase comfortable footwear. You must keep your feet clean and dry during the journey, as wet feet can lead to infections in your fingers. Apply a small amount of foot cream during long walks to reduce friction. These kinds of footcare make your feet free from blisters, and you can feel a noticeable difference during the hajj journey.
UK people always get their Hajj visa done from authorised Islamic travel agencies because unauthorised ones get immediate deportation and heavy penalties from the Saudi government.
Conclusion
In the end, the hajj journey is divine, but it requires significant physical effort. As you have many kilometres during the hajj pilgrimage, choosing the right footwear is essential.
It helps in reducing unnecessary pain and allows pilgrims to focus on worship. Simple, comfortable, and practical footwear supports the journey quietly without drawing attention. When your feet are comfortable, the entire experience feels more manageable and peaceful.