Every mission could be very different depending on climate and conditions etc. But the list of supplies specific to this mission, the requirements were to bring:
2 shoes "conservative style, durable, comfortable, sturdy, good arch support for lots of walking. Rubber soles recommended. No sandals."
And 1 Water Resistant boots "conservative style, black, water-proof, durable, comfortable, sturdy, good arch support for lots of walking. (should look appropriate with Missionary appearance).
We got a call from another missionary mom friend, letting us know of a sale on some good missionary shoes. So we began some research. There is so much to learn and know and take in from other missionaries experiences on shoes. Too much to even write, without creating a book.
But we had some success, finding one pair of shoes and one pair of boots.
He went with the Ecco brand Track V Plain toe low, black
Direct injected, light but strong outter two component PU/latex sole.
Gore-Tex lining - Keep feet dry and prevent blisters with waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX to wick away moisture and prevent it from coming in. With 1.4 billion+ pores per square centimeter, water vapor can be wicked away to evaporate so feet stay dry and comfortable. Great Durability. Removable vegetable tanned insole.
Uppers made of heavy milled full grain leather and oil nubuck.
And the Ecco IV boots with all the same specifications.
I was worried about the stitching on the top, but it is triple stitched and they have a 2 year warranty.
We think they look appropriate with the missionary appearance.
Most of what we have read is that the drainage system in allot of Paraguay is non-existent. And the pictures the previous missionaries are taking in the rain that we are seeing, is them standing on a dirt road with water flowing up to their knees (seriously). I am not sure short of waders that anything will be fool proof. But we just wanted to do our best for him to have something that we wouldn't have to mail replacements ($$$) during his mission. The second pair of shoes will probably be the same kind, when the rebate comes back and we can take advantage of that discount. Looks like sales, coupons and discounts will be our friend.
We are so grateful the missionary saved his money and planned ahead for this time in his life to serve. What a blessing!
Shoe shopping is not for the squeamish.
The most important thing... "the missionary" is happy!
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