Best shoes
9 best shoes for San Francisco in December
highs of 57°F, lows of 46°F, 11 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.
Why these shoes for San Francisco in December
San Francisco in December averages highs around 57°F, lows near 46°F, 11 rainy days.
San Francisco hills and cool fog make traction and a light layer-ready shoe essential. Expect long walking days in San Francisco: hills make cushion and grip matter more than fashion alone.
Plan on two pairs — one built for the weather extremes and a lighter backup for evenings and dry stretches.
Our picks focus on everyday sneakers, walking shoes, slip-ons — enough range to cover day-to-day walking without overpacking.
How many pairs?
Pack two pairs
Recommendation: 2 pairs
- Primary: waterproof or water-resistant pair for wet sidewalks.
- Backup: drier/lighter pair for dinners and transit.
Best everyday sneakers for San Francisco in December
ForecastStyle pick
Grey slip-on sneakers
Slip-on canvas sneakers in heathered grey. An easy everyday shoe — good with joggers, jeans, or a casual dress.
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ForecastStyle pick
Grey Summit Chunky Trail Sneakers
A rugged sole provides superior traction on and off the trail, while the cushioned interior ensures all-day comfort. The chunky silhouett…
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ForecastStyle pick
White low-top sneakers
Clean white canvas sneakers with a rubber sole. The default casual shoe that goes with nearly every outfit.
Shop on Amazon →Best walking shoes for San Francisco in December
ForecastStyle pick
Classic White Low-Top Everyday Sneakers
Crisp white low-top sneakers with a clean court silhouette for everyday travel. Easy to style with jeans, skirts, or joggers and light en…
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Ivory
Ivory Minimal Walking Sneakers
Ivory minimal walking sneakers with a quiet sole and slim profile. Easy to style for city photos without looking like running gear.
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ForecastStyle pick
Grey Suede Everyday Court Sneakers
Soft grey suede court sneakers with a retro-clean shape. Neutral enough for photos and capsule packing without chunky trail styling.
Shop on Amazon →Best slip-on shoes for San Francisco in December
ForecastStyle pick
Black Slip-On Walking Sneakers
Black slip-on walking sneakers for security lines and early trains. Supportive footbed with a closed toe for all-day urban miles.
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Beige
Beige raffia block-heel mules
Open-back mules with a woven raffia upper, a square toe, and a solid 2.5-inch wooden block heel. A warm-weather staple that bridges relax…
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ForecastStyle pick
Black Chunky Sport Loafer Mules
These chunky-soled mules offer a sporty take on the classic loafer, with an easy slip-on design for all-day wear. The cushioned footbed a…
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Climate-matched looks for San Francisco in December.
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FAQ
Are waterproof shoes necessary in San Francisco in December?
Yes — with roughly 11 rainy days in the month, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a strong bet.
Do I need boots in San Francisco in December?
A light boot is worth it for evenings, when temps drop to about 46°F. A sturdy sneaker also works.
Can I wear sandals in San Francisco in December?
Not really — highs around 57°F are too cool for open shoes on most days.
Can I get by with one pair of shoes in San Francisco in December?
Many travelers do fine with one strong walking pair. Add a second only if you need dress shoes or a wet-weather dedicated option.
What about dressy dinners in San Francisco?
Most cities accept clean sneakers or light boots for smart-casual dinners. If you have a black-tie night, pack one dress shoe and wear your walking pair on the plane.
Any tips for packing shoes for San Francisco?
Wear the bulkiest pair on the plane, stuff socks into the packed pair, and use a shoe bag so damp soles do not ruin clothes. Pack a thin spare pair of socks for rainy days.
Do cobblestones or hills change what shoes I need in San Francisco?
Yes — hills reward cushion and traction. Prioritize walking shoes or trail-leaning sneakers over fashion flats.