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The 13 best walking shoes for travel in 2024.

Discover your ideal pair for every type of adventure and terrain.

The Best Walking Shoes for Travel

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Every trip involves some amount of walking, whether across a large airport, down winding cobblestone streets on a tour or along a rocky nature trail. You always want to be prepared with the right shoes to tackle any short stroll or long walk so painful feet don't ruin your vacation plans.

The best walking shoe will be different for every traveler, depending on your shoe preferences and needs. Those with flat feet may need more arch support, for example, while other travelers may be in search of a stylish shoe that's still comfortable. For tips from podiatrists on how to select the best shoe for you, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Whatever type of walking shoe you seek, here are some of the top recommendations from experts and consumer reviews to make your travels comfortable.

Women's

Best sneakers overall: asics gel-contend.

• Jump to expert insights ↓

Best Slip-on Sneakers: Vans Slip-On Shoe

Best sandals: ecco yucatan sandal, best loafers: cole haan loafers, best sustainable: allbirds wool runners, best for hiking: merrell moab 3, best water shoes: chacos z/ sandals, best for support: hoka bondi 8, best color variety: brooks ghost 15, best for extended sizes: new balance fresh foam x 1080.

• Jump to traveler insights ↓
• Best White Sneakers: adidas Grand Court 2.0 Sneaker

Best for Women: Naturalizer Morrison Sneaker

Best for men: orthofeet edgewater stretch.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Courtesy of ASICS

What makes them stand out: These shoes are ideal for travelers and runners alike, offering all the cushioning and support you need while on the go. The jacquard mesh top of the shoe makes the ASICS Gel-Contend particularly breathable and flexible. The shoes are designed to support your feet and absorb impact as you run or walk, with the brand's rearfoot GEL technology, AmpliFoam midsole and OrthoLite sockliner for cushioning.

These walking shoes come in options for men, women and children of various ages, as well as more than a dozen colors, and the price is hard to beat for such a quality shoe. Other popular ASICS running shoes include the Gel-Excite and Gel-Venture .

What our editors say:

They are super comfortable. I wear them for all of my trips and they are durable. Plus, they go up to a women's size 12 with options of both narrow and wide for people like me with big wide feet. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

I love ASICS for just straight-up sneakers. They're comfortable and last forever. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Price: $70 or less

Courtesy of Vans

What makes them stand out: The iconic Vans Slip-Ons are easy to dress up or down for any occasion, making them a versatile option to toss in your carry-on . The uppers come in many different materials and designs, from classic black perforated leather to a floral textile design to a leopard canvas print. These slip-on shoes have supportive padded collars, rubber waffle outsoles and elastic side accents. You'll find a large range of sizes for both women and men.

I'm a big fan of the Vans Slip-On Shoes. I wore them for years on trips throughout Europe and on various weekend getaways. – Erin Evans

What makes them stand out: If you're headed somewhere warmer and want to give your feet space to breathe, opt for a sandal style. The ECCO Yucatan Sandal, with versions for women and men, uses various materials to make a supportive walking shoe. Cushioning is provided by the lightweight sole and EVA footbed; there's also a leather upper, neoprene lining and rubber outsole to give you a good grip. Color options range from a bright chili red or light blue to more neutral shades like gray or black.

What our contributors say:

These are my go-to sandals for summer trips to Europe, the Caribbean or any other destination. They are super lightweight and they're comfy right out of the box. I like the way the rubber bottoms grip any surface (including slick rocks), and I appreciate the added stability of the adjustable ankle straps, especially when navigating cobblestone streets or hiking trails. I've owned at least 15 pairs over the years (in nearly every color) and will continue to buy them as they are the only sandals I can wear all day with no fatigue. – Gwen Pratesi , Travel Contributor

Price: $140 or less

Courtesy of Cole Haan

What makes them stand out: If you prefer a fashionable loafer to a sneaker, especially for any business travel, Cole Haan's various loafer options are a great choice. The Women's ØriginalGrand Platform Venetian Loafers have an elevated platform wedge outsole with FlowerFoam (at least 25% dandelion rubber) and come in colors such as gold or black. For men, consider the classic Men's 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer, made with a TPU outsole and deep rubber flex grooves. The layers of foam in Cole Haan loafers can provide your feet with all-day comfort, and the uppers are made from stylish leather.

I love the blend of comfort and versatility in these loafers. They are comfortable for long days of exploring and work well on a variety of surfaces, from airports to cobblestone streets. I really appreciate that the style can be dressed up, paired with business attire for a work meeting or worn casual with jeans. – Rachael Hood , Senior Editor

Price: $220 or less

Courtesy of Allbirds

What makes them stand out: Allbirds Wool Runners, designed for both men and women, get their name from the soft merino wool that the upper and heel lining are made from. The thermoregulating material is sustainably sourced using regenerative agriculture and carbon-reducing practices; it also makes for a cozy, itch-free fit around your foot. These lace-up sneakers are especially useful for cool weather vacations, but the similar Allbirds Tree Runners are a great lighter option for warm climates.

My Allbirds Wool Runners are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned. They require zero breaking in and look great with a bunch of different outfits. I've worn them through multiple airports and to tour around big cities all day. They are like walking on a cloud, and I never have any foot pain! You can wear them with or without socks, and they are machine-washable, which is the cherry on top. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Price: $98 or less

Courtesy of Merrell

What makes them stand out: These shoes have received plenty of accolades for being durable hiking shoes, especially because they're designed to handle rugged terrain. The Merrell Moab 3 has laces, webbing and a mesh lining all made from recycled materials. The rubber heel and toe cap are designed to protect your feet, while the outsole gives you traction and the Merrell Air Cushion technology absorbs impact. Extra ankle support provides stability when you're navigating uneven terrain. What's more, the contouring footbed offers maximum comfort and the leather on these shoes is gold-rated (which means it's been responsibly sourced; the designation is the highest rating from the Leather Working Group).

I can't emphasize enough how comfortable these shoes are. I've brought them on several trips, including a few weeks in New Zealand, and while I love them for hikes, I just as often find myself putting them on to go for a casual walk in the city. I also love that even though they're lace-up, I can pretty much always just slip them on without using my hands. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $120 or less

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Courtesy of Chacos

What makes them stand out: You can't really go wrong with any pair of Chacos sandals, as they're all fairly similar and built to last. These versatile, durable sandals are perfect for adventure travel and water activities, as the rubber outsoles give you traction in various types of terrain and the contoured arch support cradles your feet.

Chacos have adjustable straps that wrap around your feet, but you can choose from different strap widths based on your preference. Some Chacos, such as the ZX/2 and Z/2 styles, have a toe loop for a bit more support, while the ZX/1 and Z/1 sandals do not have one. Another consideration is how much cushioning you want: Unlike the Classic options, the Cloud styles are equipped with cushioning.

I've had my pair of ZX/1 Cloud Chacos for years and they're my favorite hiking sandal. They're durable, comfortable and stylish, and they're especially handy when water-based activities are involved. For example, my Chacos were perfect for walking along the rocky bottoms of the cenotes (swimming holes) I explored on a recent trip to Mexico. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $105 or less

Courtesy of HOKA

What makes them stand out: Treat your foot to the ultimate cushioning with a pair of HOKA Bondi 8 sneakers. This mesh style has a higher bed of plush cushioning than other HOKA shoes, with an extended heel design for balance and a lightweight OrthoLite foam sockliner. Multiple parts of this shoe are made from recycled materials, and the American Podiatric Medical Association grants its Seal of Acceptance. You have your pick of myriad colors and sizes in both men's and women's.

HOKA shoes are the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. They are great whether you're running a 10K or running around all day sightseeing on vacation. I've had several pairs, my favorite of which is the Women's Bondi 8. I love the fun colors, too! I also like supporting them because they intentionally work on reducing their environmental impact. – Sharael Kolberg , Travel Contributor

Price: $165 or less

Courtesy of Brooks

What makes them stand out: These beloved running shoes are named for the director of product management at Brooks, who was known for going on nighttime runs, but they're also a great option for walking and sightseeing. The air mesh upper is made from recycled materials, while the midsole has a soft, lightweight cushioning. Sizes range from 5 to 13 for women and 7 to 15 for men. You can also choose from four width sizes between narrow and extra wide – not to mention dozens of color combinations.

These are running shoes but I wear them everywhere, from half-marathons to surviving Disney and Universal. Seriously, I wear them 90% of the time I step outside. – Leilani Osmundson

Courtesy of New Balance

What makes them stand out: New Balance is a brand often recommended by podiatrists for its high-quality shoes for walking and running. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 – the latest version of which is v13 – has an impressive range of sizes to accommodate travelers. Width choices include narrow, standard, wide or X-wide. The men's sizing runs from 7 to 16, while women's sizes span 5 to 13. This shoe is breathable and supportive with an air mesh upper and a Fresh Foam X midsole. This shoe also has a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association because it promotes good foot health.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers recommend this shoe if you're on your feet all day or doing a lot of walking and running, saying the comfort and quality are unmatched. Some also say the shoes provide good arch support for flat feet.

Best White Sneaker: adidas Grand Court 2.0 Sneaker

Courtesy of adidas

What makes them stand out: For a classic white sneaker that you can wear for a variety of occasions, these adidas tennis shoes are a great option. Your feet are cushioned by a Cloudfoam Comfort sockliner, and the rubber outsole gives you good traction. The synthetic leather upper is made partly from recycled materials as well. Choose from several different colors for the stripes on the sides of these white shoes.

I panic-bought these white sneakers to go with various outfits before a trip to Europe. Even though I had no time to break them in, they were instantly comfortable. These white sneakers lasted for miles as I walked all around London for days, and they matched well with everything. The exterior is easily wipeable whenever they get a little dirty. I couldn't believe how immediately comfortable they were and how I got no blisters or sore feet as I wore them on my trip. They're now one of my go-to everyday shoes as well for running errands. – Erin Evans

Courtesy of Naturalizer

What makes them stand out: These simple sneakers are a staple for many travelers, as they come in various sizes, widths, colors and materials. Whether you choose white leather or gray suede, the Naturalizer Morrison Sneaker is a casual and practical lace-up shoe for women that's still fashionable. In addition to its nonslip outsole, the inside is designed to meet the contours of your feet while you're on the go.

I got them on a Thursday and wore them around New York City that entire weekend with no blisters or breaking in needed. So far they've held up well and are really comfy. – Elizabeth Von Tersch , Senior Editor

Price: $99 or less

Courtesy of Orthofeet

What makes them stand out: These athletic shoes for men are specifically designed to protect sensitive feet and relieve pain for men with a number of orthopedic conditions. The Orthofoot Edgewater Stretch comes with orthotic insoles that have a removable arch support as well as a slip-resistant rubber outsole and an ergonomic, well-cushioned sole. The roomy toe box and stretchy fabric upper are especially useful for travelers with wide feet or foot problems such as bunions. There's an inclusive size range, with four width options from standard to XX-wide.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say the excellent design of these sneakers creates a cloud-like walking experience, with many calling the Edgewater Stretch the most comfortable shoe they've ever owned.

Price: $145 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

No matter where in the world you want to go, your travels will likely involve some amount of walking as you explore new cities and natural wonders.

"The dirty little secret of travel, especially air travel, is the true amount of walking involved just getting to the destination," says board-certified podiatrist Ernest L. Isaacson, of Paragon Podiatry . "For instance, airports are cavernously large, and it's not unusual to walk a mile or more just to get to the gate after spending what can seem like an eternity in a long security line."

If you don't bring the right footwear, walking can become painful, limiting what you're able to do on your vacation.

"Investing in high-quality shoes ensures durability, support, and overall foot health during your travels," says Maggie Trevillion, founder of Callen Olive, a luxury leg and foot skincare brand, and podiatrist at Walk This Way Podiatry . "Quality shoes are designed to withstand the rigors of exploration, offering better cushioning, stability and traction. They can help prevent foot fatigue, blisters and other discomforts, allowing you to explore your destination with confidence and gusto."

Quality walking shoes are important for more than just your feet, too: "Wearing proper walking shoes with adequate cushioning and support helps to distribute the body's weight evenly, reducing the strain on our feet, ankles, knees and hips," according to Daniel Pledger, podiatrist and founder of ePodiatrists .

When weighing your options, Trevillion recommends looking for the following features:

• Comfort , including cushioning and arch support
• Breathable and durable material , with features like sturdy outsoles
• Lightweight build , for easy packing
• Traction , with rubber or multidirectional lug soles to give you a good grip
• Versatility , so you can use one pair of shoes in different environments

Pledger emphasizes the importance of arch support in your walking shoes. "This helps to maintain the natural alignment of the foot and reduces the risk of arch-related problems like plantar fasciitis," he says. He also recommends a well-cushioned midsole to absorb the impact as you walk; a supportive heel counter for stability; and a flexible outsole, which will allow for natural foot movement.

Follow your instincts as you try on shoes. "The shoe that feels most comfortable in the store is probably the best shoe, whatever style that may be," Isaacson says. "And if it's not comfortable in the store it's not going to magically conform to the foot in the bag on the way home."

With so many shoe brands on the market, your choice will ultimately come down to personal preference and foot characteristics. There is no one shoe that will work for every foot.

Pledger's patients, for example, offer consistent positive feedback for shoes from New Balance, ECCO and Merrell. Even still, "I would caution against blindly following brand recommendations without trying on the shoes and assessing their fit and feel," Pledger says.

Trevillion also recommends ECCO and New Balance, adding that KEEN and Salomon also have great options for challenging terrain. These brands are all praised by travelers worldwide, but don't be discouraged if the shoes that work for others just don't fit your shoe preferences. At the end of the day, you're the one who has to wear them, so try out different options if you need to and discover what features suit you best.

When searching for your perfect walking shoe, look at the following:

• Outsole: This is the bottom of the shoe that will have direct contact with the surface you are walking on. It should be flexible and shock-absorbing. A sturdier outsole will provide more stability for a variety of pavements.
• Insole: This is the interior bottom of the shoe. You'll want a comfortable fabric to prevent your foot from rubbing, as well as cushioning and support.
• Midsole: This is the area inside the shoe where the arch of your foot rests. Having a strong foundation here is key for foot alignment and proper support.
• Upper: This refers to the fabric and construction of the portion of the shoe that will cover the top and sides of your foot. The fabric type will determine breathability, durability and if it will repel water.
• Heel cup: This is the area where your heel sits inside the shoe. It should be secure for walking and may have additional cushioning for shock absorption.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler who knows well the importance of a comfortable walking shoe. Having weathered blisters and other foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes to hike up a mountain or explore the streets of Europe, she now makes sure to pack her Merrell and Allbirds sneakers each time she travels. Kendall wrote this article with the help of personal experience, extensive research and recommendations from experts.

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The 9 Best Women’s Travel Shoes, Tested and Reviewed

Explore in style with these comfy kicks

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Zackary Angeline

Whether you’re packing for a business trip or your annual vacation, space and weight are usually limited. One way to make the most of your luggage allowance is to carefully choose which shoes you take. A lightweight, comfortable pair that can fulfill several different functions (from providing support on your city walking tour or hiking excursion to looking good at dinner afterward) is ideal. 

Our travel experts tested 22 of the best women’s shoes for your next adventure, rating each pair for comfort, fit, quality, and value, then choosing winners for a range of categories from “Best Sandals” to “Most Sustainable.”

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• Others We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust TripSavvy

Best Overall

Adidas cloudfoam pure 2.0 running shoes.

 Amazon

• Cushioning 4 /5
• Responsiveness 3.5 /5
• Blister Protection 4.5 /5

Ready out of the box

Hard-wearing and easy to clean

Reasonable price point

Limited color choices

If you’re looking for an everyday, running-inspired sneaker that won’t break the bank, you can’t go wrong with the Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Sneaker. Made especially for women, they feature a breathable, foot-hugging textile upper and a combined Cloudfoam midsole and outsole. We found the latter so comfortable that we likened wearing them to having our feet cradled by a cloud and reported no rubbing or irritation even though we wore them for extended periods without socks. The shoes have laces and score sustainability points by utilizing high-performance recycled materials. 

We found them impressively durable, with no noticeable wear or odor even after all three test wears. The soles got a little bit dirty, but we were able to clean them with a wipe of a damp cloth. As for the price tag, we were astonished when we discovered how affordable these sneakers are—our tester would happily have paid three times the price for the quality and comfort experienced. The shoes come in neutral colors and full and half sizes from 5 to 12. We found that they fit perfectly and were true to size. 

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Knit textile upper, Cloudfoam midsole and outsole | Sustainability: Primegreen recycled materials 

TripSavvy / Elena Garcia

Superga Cotu Sneaker

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

Sturdily built

Timeless style

Huge choice of sizes and colors

Not the best for all-day wear

First launched in 1925, the Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneaker has become an emblem of Italian style inspired by ladies’ tennis shoes. Although more expensive than our overall winner, we feel that the price tag is a fair reflection of its combined quality and style. It features a cotton upper and lining, a rubber outsole, and a lace closure. Our tester found the shoes incredibly comfortable out of the box, with cushioned soles that provided good support for indoor and outdoor use. The fit was true to size, although those with wide feet may want to size up. 

However, we would recommend them for a light travel day rather than one with extensive walking since we did experience some discomfort after spending more than two-thirds of the day on our feet. Nevertheless, we were impressed by the quality construction with thick soles and sturdy stitching. We also appreciated that the shoes didn’t become saturated when caught in the rain as other fabric shoes may do. Choose one of many gorgeous pastel colors, from classic white to violet or light blue. 

Sizes: 5 to 15.5 | Materials: Cotton upper, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Not listed

TripSavvy / Ivy Ford

Best Walking

New balance women's 574 core sneaker.

New Balance

• Comfort 4 /5
• Quality 5 /5

Wear well for extended periods

Sturdy, reliable construction

Variety of sizes

Sizing can be tricky

The New Balance 574 Core Sneaker wins our vote as an easy, neutral choice that’s well-made and superbly comfortable. Designed as a hybrid road and trail shoe, it’s suitable for wherever your walking takes you, even on a trip to Disney. We found the sneakers so lightweight it was easy to forget we were wearing them. This lightness comes from their recycled polyester mesh upper with responsibly sourced leather accents and EVA foam cushioning around the midsole and heel. A rubber outsole provides solid arch support. 

We especially liked that the laces stayed tied throughout our test wear periods and that the shoes went well with most casual outfits. In fact, we were surprised to find this level of comfort and style for under $100 (although you’d likely want a flashier sneaker for anything more formal). We found the sneakers roomier than expected, although the New Balance website recommends sizing up. But, with extended-width sizes available, you should be able to find your perfect fit. Colors range from black to burgundy or navy, all with white accents.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Mesh upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Recycled polyester, rubber, and bio-based foam

TripSavvy / Mariah Tyler

On Running Women's Cloudrift Shoe

• Comfort 4.3 /5

Sleek, statement-making aesthetic

Easily fit into luggage

Key functional elements

Only available in regular fit

If you’re headed to the big city and need travel shoes that look as good as they feel, we recommend the On Running Cloudrift Sneaker. Available in three colorways—White/Sand, Metal/Navy, or Ivory/Storm—they’re as fashion-forward as a sneaker can be, looking just as good with cute jeans or dresses as they do with athleisure wear. We loved the lightweight, breathable mesh upper made of performance running materials and the added heel cushioning provided by the Speedboard midsole. 

The shoes were comfortable right out of the box, with zero time required to break them in. Our tester appreciated their significant support—but did caution that potential buyers should size their pair carefully to avoid the structured cushioning hitting in awkward places and causing discomfort. There are no extra-width sizes, unfortunately. Nevertheless, with no wear and tear visible after our test period, these sneakers are likely to last a long time and are both light and packable enough to make them the perfect traveling companion.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Mesh upper, unspecified mid- and outsole | Sustainability: 35 percent recycled materials 

TripSavvy / Karen Chen

Best Sandals

Keen elle backstrap sandal.

• Quality 4.8 /5

Provide stable ride

Cute and casual aesthetic

Reduced environmental impact

Relatively expensive

Comfortable, attractive, lightweight, quick to dry, and easy to clean—it’s difficult to imagine a more perfect summer travel shoe than the KEEN Elle Backstrap Sandal. We loved the stretchy straps, allowing a snug fit without cutting off circulation. Made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, the straps held their shape even after miles of walking, keeping our feet securely in place with no slipping or sliding. The sandals also feature a compression-molded EVA midsole and an EVA footbed with arch support for all-day comfort. 

The rubber outsole offers plenty of traction and is non-marking, making it ideal for adventurous travel—whether you’re hitting the trail or heading out on a boat trip. The outsoles are also sustainable, using jute infusions to reduce the amount of rubber used. While pricey for sandals, we ultimately felt the cost was well worth it for the combination of quality and understated style. Our test pair was true to size, and there are many colors to choose from, including two-toned, patterned, and tie-dye shades.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: PET straps, EVA midsole, jute-infused rubber outsole | Sustainability: Straps made from recycled plastic bottles 

TripSavvy / Rachel Thalhuber

Best Hiking Sandals

Chaco women's zx2 classic sandal.

Lets you dial in the perfect fit

Handles demanding use

Toe loop may cause discomfort at first

Although we liked the Chaco Zx2 Classic Sandals so much we would recommend them “for anyone, for any kind of wear,” we found them particularly suitable for hiking trips. The polyester jacquard webbing straps wrap around the foot and through the midsole and are fully adjustable. This, combined with the added toe loop, makes the fit fully customizable for incredibly sturdy, supportive, all-day comfort. After eight solid hours of active wear, our feet were not tired. 

The sandals also feature a podiatrist-accepted, women’s specific PU footbed that promotes alignment and a non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole. We found the latter very thick, with a deep lug for excellent traction on rougher terrain. The only downside? We did experience some initial chafing around the toe loop, so we recommend breaking the sandals in before heading out on a hike. Choose yours in a medium or wide fit, in a range of colors from classic black to statement-making prints.

Sizes: 5 to 12 (no half-sizes) | Materials: Polyester straps, PU midsole, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Vegan-friendly construction 

TripSavvy / Jeanne Geer

Best for the Office

Olukai leather sneakers.

• Value 4.8 /5

The right balance between rigidity and flex

Two-way heel

Easy to maintain

Back tab may bump against the Achilles tendon

The Olukai Pehuea Lī ‘Ili Sneaker is an excellent choice for traveling professionals who need to look put-together but still want all-day comfort. Crafted from soft, full-grain leather, the shoes mold to your feet as you wear them, with anatomically contoured footbeds that we found instantly comfortable—no breaking-in required. The sneakers provide good arch support and offer a roomy toe box (perfect for those with wide feet).

Other than that, we loved that the footbeds are both removable and washable—a major plus for those who don’t like ruining their workplace aesthetic by wearing socks with their sneakers. And, a collapsible drop-in heel converts the sneakers to slip-ons for easy on-and-off through the airport (or under your desk). Other highlights include the non-marking Wet Grip Rubber outsole and the construction, which is durable enough to justify the slightly higher price tag. Choose from a range of office-appropriate colors, including white, tan, or black.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Not listed

Most Sustainable

Allbirds women's plant pacers.

• Value 4.5 /5

Wear in quickly

Cushioned fit

Not in love with the color

One for all those who want to look and feel good while also doing their bit to save the planet, the Allbirds Plant Pacers are 100 percent plastic- and petroleum-free. The uppers are made from plant leather, while the sugarcane-based, green EVA foam midsole is lined with a eucalyptus and recycled polyester blend. The outsole is natural rubber; even the laces feature 100 percent recycled polyester. We love the brand’s commitment to upcycling and feel that the shoes’ sustainability justifies their high-end price tag. 

They’re also lovely to look at, with a clean, refined aesthetic reinforced by a classic cupsole stitch. The only drawback is the slightly off-white color, which we felt seemed slightly unintentional, with no other colors to choose from. Nevertheless, the shade did hold up well to extended wear, despite our fears about potential staining. We found the shoes a little stiff out of the box, but within a wear or two, they felt as if we had owned them for years. They’re sturdy without being too rigid, with a comfortably thick sole and cushioned heel. 

Sizes: 5 to 11 (no half-sizes) | Materials: Plant leather upper, SweetFoam midsole, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Made from plant-based or recycled materials 

TripSavvy / Erica Finamore

Best Splurge

Frankie4 australia women's winnie ii white suede shoes.

• Comfort 5 /5

Upscale, slightly retro style

Adjustable fit

Zero breaking-in period required

Some more colors would be nice

We loved the look of the Frankie4 Winnie II Suede Sneakers, with their luxe perforated leather uppers and buttery soft suede accents. We had never experienced such out-of-the-box comfort before, so we would wholeheartedly recommend these sneakers despite them costing roughly four times the price of our overall winner. They have a shock-absorbing sole and use a specifically placed foam lining (made from recycled plastic bottles) to prevent pressure and rubbing. 

Furthermore, the podiatrist-designed footbed features a triple-layer system for impressive heel, arch, and forefoot support. We found that our heels didn’t move at all, and at no time did our toes feel cramped. Using the included insole set, the fit can also be customized to suit regular, wide, or narrow feet. Other benefits include the slip-resistant sole, the absence of any heavy materials for travel-friendly lightness, and an additional set of laces for alternate styling. The sneakers come in just two colors: white and black/white. 

Sizes: 6 to 13 | Materials: Leather upper, rPET foam lining, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Lining made from recycled plastic bottles 

TripSavvy / Morgan Ashley Parker

The Cloudfoam Pure Sneaker from Adidas has everything you want in a travel shoe: a light and breathable upper, extra cushy and supportive soles, and a reasonable price tag. If you are the type of traveler who tends to rack up miles at your destination, go for the New Balance 574 Core Sneaker .

First, we removed each pair of shoes from their packaging and visually inspected their material and design quality. In particular, we tested for potential arch support issues by seeing how much the sole flexed when bent in the middle. Next, we completed at least three test wear periods: the first for 30 minutes, the second for three hours, and the third for a full day. 

During each test period, we evaluated the shoes’ fit, whether they chafed or applied pressure in uncomfortable places, how breathable they were, and their traction on various surfaces and in different weather conditions. Finally, we scored each pair from 1 to 5 for comfort, fit, quality, and value, with the overall score determining whether they were included in our final selection.

Other Travel Shoes We Tested

Allbirds Wool Runners : While we found these sneakers comfortable and appreciated their sleek look, they were unsuitable for use in any kind of precipitation—making them too limited for a travel shoe.

TripSavvy / Taylor Fox

Vessi Women's Everyday Classic : We loved that these shoes were waterproof and lightweight, making them super versatile. However, they lost points because we didn't think they were stylish enough for evening wear. 

Suavs Women's The Zilker Gum : Although comfortable, we had concerns about the long-term durability of these shoes. They're also relatively expensive, although we did appreciate their packability and removable insoles. 

Taos Footwear Women's Star Sneaker : We found that these sneakers fit more narrowly than expected and experienced some rubbing during our test wears. We also felt that the arch support was uncomfortably pronounced. 

TripSavvy / Anna Knief

ECCO Women's Soft Sneaker : These sneakers were comfortable from the first wear and essentially fine in every way (if a bit overpriced). However, we wished they were a brighter white and came in half sizes. 

Ryka Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe : While we felt these shoes weren't comfortable or supportive enough for serious runners, they were great for everyday use. The quality was good, and we liked their lightweight breathability. 

Birdies The Starling : These shoes had a significant break-in period, but they were very comfortable afterward. We loved the premium materials and professional look but would recommend it for business travel only. 

TripSavvy / Anna Popp

BIRKENSTOCK Arizona Essentials EVA : The pros of these shoes are that they're light, waterproof, and attractive. Cons were that it took a while to get the fit right and that they were pretty expensive for a simple sandal. 

Teva Universal Trail Sandals : These are excellent quality, comfortable sandals that will likely last a long time. They're on the more expensive side, though, and we'd recommend sizing up if you're between sizes. 

Osay Leather Slide Loafer : We love these beautifully made shoes for their quality leather construction, comfort, and the fact they can transform into slip-ons via a collapsible heel. They don't have much support, though.

What to Look For in Travel Shoes

Type of shoe.

The best type of shoe depends on where you’re going, the weather you’re expecting, and the kind of activities you’ll be doing. For a city break with lots of walking around town and perhaps a few park outings or urban hikes, you can’t beat a comfortable sneaker with plenty of breathable support. Choose one in a neutral shade like white, black, or tan, and you can probably wear it out to dinner as well—saving you from having to pack formal footwear. If you’re headed somewhere tropical , a lightweight, quick-drying sandal with a cute aesthetic and enough traction to be practical is the perfect all-rounder. 

The travel shoes mentioned on this list range in price from around $50 to approximately $200. With our overall winner also being the most affordable, it’s definitely possible to buy the perfect travel shoe without breaking the bank. However, you may want to pay a little more for a brand you know and love, for premium quality materials that will stand the test of time, or for a shoe that gives you peace of mind by exclusively using plant-based or recycled materials. Generally speaking, $100 is the average you should expect to spend on a good pair of travel shoes, with anything less or more representing the cheaper and pricier ends of the spectrum, respectively. 

Wearability

If one of the defining features of a travel shoe is that it can be worn in multiple different scenarios (and will therefore be one of only a few pairs you take with you), it’s essential that you actually enjoy wearing it and are comfortable doing so. Fit is key—the shoe should hug snugly enough that there’s no slippage when you walk, without rubbing, chafing, or putting pressure on any part of your foot or toes. If you’re going to be wearing the shoe for extended periods, some arch support is a good idea, while breathability is important if you plan on using the shoe for active pursuits such as hiking, running, or extensive walking.

The number of shoes you should pack for a vacation is very subjective, with the answer depending on everything from the climate of your destination to the range of activities you’ll be taking part in and your personal style choices. But, savvy travelers often apply the three-shoe rule to their packing: one pair of sandals or flip-flops, one pair of comfy sneakers that can also be dressed up, and possibly a pair of formal shoes or heels. You can switch one or more of these out to suit your specific needs—proper walking boots instead of heels for a hiking trip , perhaps, or insulated winter boots instead of sandals if you’re headed somewhere chilly. 

How you clean your travel shoes depends a lot on the shoe, with different methods recommended for different types, materials, and brands. The best option is to check and follow individual manufacturer’s guidelines for shoe cleaning and care. Generally speaking, though, many shoes can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth. Some are machine washable, while others have removable insoles that can be washed separately. The latter is a good idea if you’re heading somewhere warm, tend to get sweaty feet when walking a lot, or prefer not to wear socks with your sneakers. 

Although taking your shoes off at security is not a requirement at every airport, it’s a common enough rule that it makes sense to fly in footwear that’s easy to take off and put back on again quickly. That means swapping laces for zippers, elasticated straps, or pull-on styles, or, if you’re heading somewhere warm, opting for sandals or flip-flops. Some of the shoes on our list are designed with a collapsible heel so that you can slip your feet in and out in a matter of seconds but also enjoy a more structured, supported style when you reach your destination. Security aside, it’s always a good idea to fly in comfortable shoes —think sneakers, not heels.

Why Trust TripSavvy 

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor of articles related to adventure and family travel. She is a keen traveler herself, having explored more than 50 countries across six continents. She loves to get to know a city by walking for miles without a map, and as such, she has a keen appreciation for the value of a comfortable, hard-wearing pair of travel shoes. 

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Best travel shoes — fashionable & comfortable shoes for traveling.

The ultimate guide to the best travel shoes that are both stylish and comfortable.

Packing , Product Reviews

Picking the correct travel shoes is one of the most important (and most frustrating) parts of traveling to Europe. I still struggle with it—but don’t worry because in this guide I help you choose the best shoes for traveling.

UPDATE : I’ve also included my travel footwear recommendations for both women and men.

Quick Tips For Picking Comfortable Shoes For Travel

Between living in NYC and spending a lot of time exploring Europe, I know first-hand that comfortable shoes make traveling much more enjoyable. You’ll easily walk 5-10 miles a day when exploring a city… even spending a few hours at a museum can be killer on your feet.

So treat your feet well.

Here are a few things to consider when evaluating your shoes:

• Comfort Beats Fashion (Always) : It doesn’t matter how cute your shoes are — if they’re uncomfortable, they’re staying at home. One bad blister or an aching foot can truly ruin your day.
• Quality socks will help prevent blisters, stop odor, and keep your feet comfortable. For more information about socks, be sure to read about our favorite socks for travel .
• Support & Insoles: Every foot is different so we’ve found that adding a nice pair of insoles can make shoes, flats, and boots much more comfortable.
• For example — A pair of flats isn’t appropriate for trekking through Iceland, and a pair of heavy-duty mountaineering boots probably is overkill for walking the streets of Paris.
• Break In Your Shoes: BREAK IN YOUR SHOES! A lot of people forget this critical step because even the most comfortable shoes can cause blisters during the first couple of wearings. We recommend wearing your shoes for a couple of weeks before your trip.
• Versatile Shoes: Depending on your travel style, you’ll want to limit the number of shoes you bring. We rarely travel with more than two pairs so make sure your shoes look good in a variety of settings.

Tips for Buying Shoes Online

Buying shoes online can be a bit tricky since all brands seem to fit a little differently. I almost exclusively order shoes from Zappos if I’m buying them online—they give you free delivery (which is often one or two-day shipping) and free returns.

If you’re not sure which size to buy, I suggest buying two sizes and then returning the pair that doesn’t fit. Zappos gives you a pre-paid return label and will refund your money within about 7 days—they make the process super easy.

The Best Travel Shoes By Category

To make things easier, I’ve divided this guide into sneakers, walking shoes, boots, sandals, flats, etc. — each section has footwear recommendations for both men and women. Feel free to jump around as needed.

• The Best Sporty Casual Travel Sneakers
• The Best Athletic Walking Shoes
• The Best Waterproof Hiking and Trekking Travel Shoes
• The Best Hiking Boots For Travel
• The Best Casual Boots For Travel
• The Best Flats For Travel
• The Best Travel Sandals
• The Best Insoles
• The Best Travel Shoe Brands

The Best Sporty Casual Sneakers For Travel

Yes, you can wear sneakers when you travel without looking like a “tourist”. In fact, a cool-looking pair of sneakers is our preferred travel shoe in most cases. Luckily, there are a ton of fashionable options available these days but here are a few of our favorites.

Note: Some of the more “minimalist” shoes will benefit from the addition of insoles.

Women’s Casual Sneakers For Travel

Ecco also makes a lot of cute, sturdy, & comfortable sneakers. The Ecco Soft VII is a great city shoe.

We’re really digging Allbirds shoes for travel. They’re sneakers but they’re made of wool — which sounds kind of weird but it actually works well. These shoes are super comfortable and you can wear them without socks (one of the benefits of wool is odor prevention). They are crazy lightweight so they’re easy to pack away. They come in multiple colors and cost $95. Available via Allbirds .

Allbirds multiple new shoe lines — I’m a fan of the Tree Runners and Tree Dashers because are made of eucalyptus pulp instead of wool so they’re a bit breezier than the Wool Runners.

Read our Allbirds Review if you want more information.

We were recently in Madrid and we saw a ton of European men and women wearing Adidas Superstars . They were seriously everywhere. Zappos has multiple styles and colors — plus they’re fairly affordable.

We’ve also noticed a huge rise in the popularity of New Balance shoes throughout Europe — we’ve seen everything from neutral to super bright colors. We’ve loved New Balance shoes for a long time so we’re happy they’re now popular in Europe.

A classic choice is the New Balance 574 because it comes in multiple colors and strikes that balance of being fashionable, sporty, and comfortable. For maximum comfort, consider any New Balance that features their Fresh Foam soles. Check out Zappos to see the various color options.

And of course, there is Nike — which is always a popular shoe choice for being fashionable and comfortable.

BENSIMON sneakers are a very popular and fashionable casual sneaker in France. You’ll see tons of trendy Parisians wearing them during the summer. They are available in dozens of colors and styles, but it can be a little difficult to find the full range of styles and colors in the US.

We don’t think you can have them shipped outside France from their website, but there are a few retailers who carry them in the US.

However, Superga  and Keds both make shoes in a very similar style (pictured above) — so they’re a great alternative that’s also easy to find.

Sperry Top-Siders look great with shorts, capris, skirts, and jeans, making them super versatile. They are a good option for the spring or summer.

Puma produces a number of sporty, yet fashionable, sneakers that are great for travel. Their styles are always changing, so you’ll want to check out all the different styles they have on Zappos .

Converse Chuck Taylor’s are ultra trendy in Europe right now and they make a cheap and shabby chic option. The Chucks 2 have good arch support but the normal Chucks are known for being pretty flat.

If you don’t like Chuck Taylor’s, there are many other similar style shoes available — for example,  Onitsuka Tiger by Asics  and  Vans .

Everyone knows about TOMS shoes, and they are great shoes for travel because they are comfortable, lightweight, and cute. These are great options for urban travel during the spring and summer. They’re not the most rugged shoes so they’re better suited for shorter periods of wear.

Men’s Casual Sneakers For Travel

Just about every athletic shoe brand has a line of casual sneakers — especially leather shoes that look good during the day and at night. Check out Nike , New Balance , Puma , and Adidas .

We have also seen multiple Europeans wearing Adidas Ultra Boost — these seem to be the “it” shoes right now. A ton of people sing the praises of Adidas Ultra Boost for being the most comfortable shoes they’ve ever worn.

We also love their classic Adidas Originals and Superstar sneakers as they’ll never go out of style.

We’re really digging Allbirds shoes for travel. They’re sneakers but they’re made of wool — which sounds kind of weird but it actually works well. These shoes are super comfortable and you can wear them without socks (one of the benefits of wool is odor prevention). And they are crazy lightweight so they’re easy to pack away. They come in multiple colors and cost $95. Available via Allbirds .

Allbirds has greatly expanded its shoe offerings to include shoes made of eucalyptus pulp instead of wool so they’re a bit breezier than their wool shoes — check them out here .

We’ve written a more in-depth  Allbirds Review  if you want to learn more.

New Balance is another great brand that you’ll see all over Europe. We’ve been wearing them for years so it’s nice to see Europeans discovering them as well.

We’re big fans of the New Balance Classics because they have great retro style, but still offer the comfort of a running shoe. I’ve seen similar shoes in many stores and boutiques in Paris and Barcelona so you’ll see plenty of Europeans wearing these.

Athletic Walking & Running Shoes For Travel

Full-on athletic running/walking shoes will likely be the most comfortable option for exploring the streets of Europe. These might not be the most fashionable option but we’ve started noticing a lot more Europeans starting to wear them.

Women’s Athletic Shoes for Travel

Hokas have become the undisputed “most comfortable” shoes on the market and they get rave reviews. Yes, they’re a bit ugly but even the most fashionable celebrities are wearing them so Hokas are on trend.

Hoka makes many models but we recommend the Hoka Clifton , Hoka Bondi , Hoka Rinkon , and the Hoka Arahi as they all make great travel shoe options. Check out Amazon for the full selection.

One of the best-rated running shoes is the Brooks Ghost . These will not win any points for fashion, but they will keep your feet happy. In fact, all Brooks shoes get excellent comfort ratings.

If you’re looking for a comfortable athletic shoe that has a bit of a lower profile, check out the  Nike Free , New Balance Arishi , Adidas Running , and Adidas Originals series . All of these are sporty and fashionable.

The Allbirds Tree Dashers 2 is the most advanced running shoe offered by Allbirds so it offers the brand’s most support and the greatest amount of cushioning. They’re super comfortable and they come in multiple colors.

Men’s Athletic Shoes

When it comes to nice-looking athletic shoes, Nike is hard to beat. We recommend the  Nike Air Pegasus , Nike Air Max , and Nike Free .

Brooks is known for making crazy comfortable shoes and their Ghosts are universally loved for their comfort.

Waterproof Trekking/Hiking Shoes For Travel

Trekking/hiking shoes look a bit like beefed-up athletic running shoes and they’re designed for long hikes. This style of hiking shoe is a popular choice for many travelers because they offer a lot of support, they are generally lightweight, and most are waterproof/weather resistant — which is a huge plus.

Unfortunately, it is pretty tough to find a “fashionable” pair, but these are probably your best all-around option if you travel during the snowy/rainy months or if you plan on spending a lot of time in the countryside.

NOTE: Weather-resistant shoes (as opposed to “waterproof”) should be sufficient for most travelers.

Women’s Waterproof/Weather Resistant Hiking Shoes For Travel

Ok, these Fresh Foam Gobi V2 – Protect Pack from New Balance are technically “trail runners” but they’re highly water-resistant and nice looking. We could totally rock these in Europe.

Keen is another brand known for being comfortable. These Keen Presidio shoes get rave reviews for their mix of hiking shoe durability and sneaker looks. Plus, they are waterproof, so this is a good option if you want a rugged shoe that is suitable for city travel. I also like the Keen Utility Detroit  and Keen Arroyo II because they get excellent reviews for comfort, but they do have a more utilitarian look.

Merrell is a great brand as well. Their Moab line of shoes and boots come in multiple styles — including many waterproof options. We also like the  Merrell Siren Hex Q2 Waterproof , and the  Merrell All Out Blaze 2 Waterproof . Merrell makes a ton of shoes so check out their page on Zappos to see them all.

Men’s Waterproof/Weather Resistant Hiking Shoes

We’ve always been big fans of New Balance . We think they make some of the most fashionable rugged and waterproof hiking shoes — so you won’t look out of place while exploring the city. The  910v3 GORE-TEX is a waterproof athletic trail running shoe that we are digging. We also like the Fresh Foam Gobi V2 – Protect Pack (which is technically only “water-resistant” but it should handle rainy days without much issue).

The Nike Shield line of sneakers are water-resistant so they’re a nice option if you want sneakers that can be worn in the rain but still look cool.

Merrell makes a wide range of comfortable hiking shoes, and many of them are waterproof — which is nice if you travel to rainy climates. The Merrell Moab Waterproof and the Moab Vent (a great summer option) get top marks for comfort and support. The Merrell Chameleon 4 is a low-profile option that is comfortable and sturdy but still looks decent in an urban environment.

Keen makes some of the most comfortable and durable hiking shoes. The Keen Austin is waterproof, supportive, and it has a decent style. The Keen Arroyo II , Targhee II , and the Keen Voyageur are three other comfortable options that are a bit more utilitarian.

Hiking Boots For Travel

Hiking boots will offer good support and will keep your feet comfortable on long walks, but they might be overkill for most city travel since they are heavy and bulky. Most travelers would be better off using lightweight hiking shoes but boots might be a good idea if you’re traveling in the winter or if you like the boot aesthetic.

Women’s Hiking Boots For Travel

The  Vasque Sundowner GTX   and the Danner Jag both combine old-school style and comfort.

These Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped boots get a lot of love and they’re affordable.

Men’s Hiking Boots for Travel

Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof  is a nice-looking boot that will serve you well in the winter. The  Merrell Moab Mid GORE-TEX® XCR  is a little more “outdoorsy” but it gets good reviews for comfort. The Danner Jags and the Danner Mountain 600 are two classic hiking boots with old-school style.

The Adidas Terrex Free Hiker is a cross between a running shoe and a hiking boot. Loving all these new hybrids. We actually discovered these from an Instagram ad… and we might buy a pair (technology is scary!). Check them out on Zappos .

We’re digging these Teva Arrowood 2 Mid WP boots . They have sneaker styling and comfort but the functionality of waterproof boots. Check them out on Zappos .

Casual Boots For Travel

Casual boots are nice because they are more fashionable than sneakers/athletic shoes, but they are often still comfortable. We prefer dark leather (since it will hide dirt stains well — especially in the winter), but suede can be perfectly fine in the summer.

Make sure you break in your boots for 2-3 weeks before your trip since boots require a longer break-in period.

Women’s Casual Boots for Travel

The Clarks Desert Boots  are a nice lightweight and fashionable option that works well for the summer and looks great with skinny jeans. These are best suited for the summer since they’re not waterproof. I’d also recommend using an insole.

Chelsea boots are another great style of boot for travel because they are super easy to take off — which is great at airports. And they look cool, too. We think these Blunderstone BL585 and  Frye Chelsea boots look great and they get good reviews, but there are plenty of other styles/brands available .

Blondo receives rave reviews for their boots — and many of them are waterproof so they’re great for rainy weather. They’re also fashionable if you’re trying to dress up your outfit. We’re digging their Villa Waterproof Bootie .

Men’s Casual Boots for Travel

Clarks Desert Boots  have been a classic boot for over 40 years and they’re still just as cool as ever — plus they come in multiple colors. We like these Cole Haan Chukka boots  and  Timberland Davis Square Plain Toe Chukka   because they’re both fashionable and comfortable. Borne also makes these slightly “dressy” Nigel Boots which are super comfortable.

Another nice travel boot is the  Blundstone BL550 . These leather boots are comfortable, stylish, and rugged. The BL550 doesn’t have laces, so they are super easy to put on/remove, which is incredibly nice if you’re going to be flying a lot. Blundstone makes a lot of different models, so I suggest searching for other styles.

Designed in Brooklyn and made in Portugal, Amberjack is a new footwear company that makes a range of dressier shoes and boots that have soles made from proprietary athletic materials that provide much more comfort than you’ll find in other dress shoes. They offer multiple footwear styles in multiple colors.

I’m currently testing their Chelsea boots , and while they’re not fully “sneaker-comfortable”, they’re way more comfortable than other dress shoes/boots so it’s a solid option if you’re looking for more style.

Best Travel Flats

Flats are a great option for city travel because they are lightweight, comfortable, and can be casual or dressy. Black or brown is the most practical color choice. Many flats don’t provide a lot of support, so it is advisable to add an insole to help improve comfort.

Clarks is known for being well-made, comfortable, and cute. They have a ton of different styles and colors

Born makes a lot of cute and conformable flats. The Born Julianne  is one of their most popular models because they look great, provide decent arch support, and come in multiple colors. Born also has many other styles of flats that come in cool metallic or snakeskin finishes.

If fashion is a top priority, these Cole Haan flats might be the perfect flat since they’re known for providing a lot of extra cushioning. They have multiple colors available, but we would stick with the patent leather options.

Merrell is known for making great hiking shoes, but they do make a few more stylish flats.

Travel Sandals

Sandals are great in warm weather and there are multiple styles available — from dressy to sporty. Unsurprisingly, the “fancier” sandals tend to have less support than the sporty versions — so keep that in mind.

Chaco is known for making some of the best hiking sandals. You won’t find these on the runway, but if you want excellent support these might be your best bet — whether you’re doing off-road hiking or exploring Europe’s cobblestone streets.

It might sound strange, but Crocs actually makes a few pairs of nice-looking sandals. The Crocs Sexi Flip is chic, minimalist, and comfortable and the  Isabella T-Strap also gets a lot of love. Plus, they weigh just a few ounces so they will hardly add any weight to your bag.

Birkenstocks are the quintessential “comfortable” sandal. They make multiple models so look around to see if any look good to you.

Naot is another brand that’s famous for making super comfortable sandals.

Insoles for Travel

Insoles are a great way to make your shoes much more comfortable. Some of the best are from Superfeet , Sorbothane , Spenco , and Sole , but there are plenty of other brands.

The Best Travel Footwear Brands

Do you not see any shoes on this list that look interesting? Here’s a list of our favorite brands that are known for making excellent and comfortable shoes.

Mephisto Shoes

Mephisto Footwear : Known for its super comfortable flats, sandals, and casual sneakers. They have footwear options for both men and women. See their full catalog on Zappos .

ECCO : ECCO makes a range of high-quality and comfortable shoes, boots, sandals, sneakers, dress shoes for both men and women. Most of their shoes are leather so there are a lot of solid casual yet fashionable options. See their full catalog on Zappos .

Hoka has made just about every “most comfortable shoes” list so these are an excellent option for anyone wanting maximum comfort while traveling. Some of their styles and color combos are a bit “out there” but there are plenty of options that won’t stick out too much. And, if nothing else, your feet will thank you for slipping these on. Check out Zappos for the full Hoka selection.

On Cloud Shoes

On Cloud is another shoe brand that you’re probably seeing everywhere. These get rave reviews for their comfort and they come in multiple colors so you can find something that fits your style.

Check out Zappos for the full line of On Cloud shoes.

Clarks Shoes

Clarks : Founded in 1825, Clarks is an English shoe brand that is known for making quality shoes, boots, and sandals. They became famous for their classic dessert boots (I own two pairs, myself) but they make a wide range of footwear options — especially casual leather sneakers, boots, and flats. See their full catalog on Zappos .

Naot : Naot has made a name for itself for its extremely comfortable sandals — which get tons of rave reviews. View their full catalog on Zappos .

Superga : Based in Italy since 1913, Superga has become famous for its classic low-profile and super sturdy sneakers that come in dozens of different colors. Check out their full catalog on Zappos .

Born : Born is another brand that receives a lot of love for its comfort and craftsmanship. They make a wide range of footwear but they’re most known for their women’s flats and sandals. View their full catalog on Zappos .

Blondo : Blondo’s biggest claim to fame is for their fashionable waterproof leather boots — which is something that’s actually fairly difficult to find. Take a look at their full catalog on Zappos .

Blundstone : Blundstone is known for making super comfortable and durable waterproof boots for both men and women. Check out their full catalog on Zappos .

Keen : Keen has traditionally been an outdoors footwear company that made quality but kinda ugly footwear… but they’ve started to make more casual and stylish options (without losing their outdoorsy performance). View their full catalog on Zappos .

Allbirds : Allbirds have exploded in popularity and they’ve been dubbed the “world’s most comfortable shoes.” While we’re not so sure about that claim, we can confirm that these are comfy. Plus, they’re super lightweight so they make a great “second pair” of shoes that can you easily pack into your bag.

UGGS : We were pleasantly surprised to find that UGGS actually makes some very comfortable and stylish footwear. They’re worth checking out. See their full catalog on Zappos .

Adidas : Adidas will never go out of style and you’ll see people of all ages rocking them all over Europe. We prefer sticking to their classic/retro options since they’re the most versatile but you do you. See their full catalog on Zappos .

Nike : You’ll also see people rocking their Nikes all across Europe. I know that I do. That said, we recommend sticking with their retro or fashion-forward sneakers instead of their overly “athletic” shoes. I prefer buying my Nike shoes directly from Nike .

New Balance : New Balance essentially makes two types of shoes — dorky dad/grandpa shoes and ultra-cool colorful shoes. Stick with the cool ones and you’ll fit right in with the other fashion-forward Europeans. See their full catalog on Zappos .

Foot Care Advice for Travellers

Sometimes, even with the best shoes, your feet will get a bit sore and banged up after walking for hours on end. So here are a few things you might want to pack in case your tootsies need a little extra TLC.

• Blister Bandages: We always throw in a few blister bandages into our toiletry kit. These things can be a lifesaver. Check out Amazon for various options.
• Quality Socks: We mentioned it before but nice socks make a world of difference. We prefer wool or wool/synthetic blends. Bombas and SmartWool Run Ultralight make great socks for all seasons—especially their merino wool options.
• Foot Powder: Putting on a little footpowder before you head out each day will drastically reduce sweat and odor. Check Amazon as there are multiple options out there.
• O’Keeffe’s Foot Cream: Pamper your feet — especially if you wear sandals often. O’Keeffe’s is the best-rated option on Amazon .
• Keep Nails Trimmed: Long nails can cause a lot of toe pain so pack a pair of nail clippers.
• Switch Up Shoes: We prefer to have a day-on-day-off wearing schedule with our shoes when we’re putting a lot of miles on shoes.

More Travel Packing Tips

But wait… there’s more! We have other articles to help you choose what to pack when you travel.

• Travel Packing List for Women
• Travel Packing List for Men
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• The Best Travel Underwear
• Wearing sneakers in Europe
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The 11 Best Walking Shoes for Men, Tested & Approved

Whether you're trekking across the Grand Canyon or through Grand Central, you'll want a pair of supportive and responsive shoes to get you going

Tanner Bowden & Danielle Vilaplana

Photographer

Tanner Bowden

Field Mag may receive a minor commission from purchases made via affiliate links.

Additional product testing and research by Danielle Vilaplana

Any shoe can be a walking shoe, but not every shoe can be a good walking shoe; good as in supportive and comfortable over long stretches of sidewalk, street, cobblestone, and trail. Good as in good looking enough to like being seen in whether that's at the coffee shop down the block or a vinyl bar in Tokyo. These are the qualities that I think of when I think of the best walking shoes , which also happen to be the best travel shoes.

Though walking is a natural movement, it’s not always as simple as hitting the sidewalk in any old shoe. If you’ve ever gone on a long hike or walked miles across a city, you may be familiar with aching heels, lower back pain, and other bipedal afflictions. Every shoe is designed to protect your foot but not every walking shoe will suit your support needs or the terrain, so it's worth giving a little thought to the pair that you pick for your travels.

Below, you'll find my picks for the best walking shoes for wearing at home or for any kind of trip. After the list, i've provided more info on walking shoes and what you should consider when buying a new pair, including some FAQs.

Field Mag's Top Walking Shoe Picks

Best overall walking shoe: hoka transport.

• Most Comfortable Walking Shoe: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26

Most Versatile: Norda 001

Most unique: keen wk400, most supportive: brooks addiction walker 2, best slip-on walking shoe: merrell jungle moc.

• Best Boot for Walking: Blundstone Original 550

Best Running Shoe: Saucony Triumph 21

• Best Hiking Shoes for Walking: Altra Timp 5

Best Clog: Birkenstock Tokio Super Grip Clog

Best sandal: chaco mega z/cloud sandal.

What We Look for in Walking Shoes & How We Tested

Every adventure may merit its own set of features—like GORE-TEX, extra grip, breathability, a slip-on design, or something else—almost every trip will involve spending time on your feet. Whether you're exploring Zion or glamping in England's Lakes District , or simply getting steps in at home between meetings, you'll want to consider the best walking shoes through the key features of comfort and support. You should feel both when you try on a shoe for the first time, but these qualities should last over a full day, too. Once you have these, then you can hone in on specific needs like waterproofing, foot shape, moisture wicking properties, and style.

Field Mag's team of editors and gear testers has been roaming the world for going on a decade and have got our feet in as many pairs of shoes as we can during that time, from hiking boots to running shoes to made-for-walking shoes, to hiking sandals . This list represents the latest and greatest in the world of walking shoes, based on our testers' experiences with them as well as extensive research on new models and conversations with the companies making them.

The 11 Best Walking Shoes For Men (and Women) in 2024

Pros: Comfy, quick lace system is nice, versatile Cons: Not as cool looking as other Hokas

Hoka shoes are the original chonks, starting as a plush alternative to the early 2000s Born to Run minimalist craze. Now Hoka is one of the top brands making walking and running shoes, which have such a devoted fan base that it’s tough to narrow down the options in a beloved lineup (the Hoka Bondi is a cult-level everyday running shoe for walking), but ultimately, the Hoka Transport is our top pick as a dedicated pair of comfortable walking shoes.

The Transport is specifically designed as a city-savvy walking shoe for commuters and travelers trodding long distances on the daily. Quick-toggle laces are easy to loosen and tighten for on-the-go accessibility, but wearers have the option to use traditional laces as well. Neutral stability underfoot is suitable for most walkers and easily accommodates custom footbeds, and the EVA midsole cushioning is thick without feeling damp and unresponsive. Reflective accents add a touch of urban safety with GORPcore style sensibilities, too.

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 11.2 oz Drop: 5 mm Price: $150

SHOP FROM HOKA

Most Comfortable: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26

Pros: Comfy all day long, good for running, breathable upper Cons: No weather resistance

Field Mag editor-at-large Tanner Bowden is a longtime running shoe tester, and of all the pairs he tried in 2023, the Gel-Nimbus 25 was his pick for most comfortable. He put over 225 miles on his pair before getting the updated Gel-Nimbus 26, and attests that it's just as cushy as its predecessor. While they're a great pair for running, the Nimbus is also ideal for walking around all day long with plenty of cushion for shock absorption and also enough rebound to keep things from feeling too squishy. It helps that this shoe's upper is also soft, stretchy, and breathable, so you'll never get sweaty feet.

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 10.76 oz (US men's 9) Drop: 8 mm Price: $160

$SHOP FROM ZAPPOS

Pros: Good for anything, super lightweight, great traction, comfy Cons: Expensive, sizing can be tricky

New footwear companies often take a long time to get up and running. Not Norda, which right off the line has impressed legions of trail runners with the 001. The shoe is made to be highly durable with a Dyneema upper, a hefty Vibram rubber outsole for great grip, and a Vibram SLE midsole too. We expected it to be trail-use only, but have found ourselves wearing it on the daily; to work, to run errands, to go out, as hiking shoes. It looks good too (it's right in line with the never-ending GORP trends ), and the fact that you can run or hike in it makes it perfect for travel.

Unisex Weight: 9.45 oz (size 8.5 men's) Drop: 5 mm Price: $285

SHOP FROM REI

Pros: Breathable, responsive feel Cons: Rolling can feel weird at first

The Keen WK400 walking shoe is all about forward momentum. KEEN.CURVE technology features constant curve rocker geometry and a responsive, high-energy midsole to create natural forward momentum. The motion is so effortless that Keen claims that this pair of walking shoes will elevate your experience from everyday routine to a truly fun activity. Some reviewers claim that the shape can feel odd when not in motion, so the WK400s definitely function best as part of a quiver, but don't be surprised if you take them 300 to 500 miles even as part of a set.

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 13.65 oz Drop: 10 mm Price: $160

Pros: Classic leather sneaker look, great casual walking shoes Cons: Could be overkill for some

The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 walking shoes are designed for those who need extra cushioning and stability, including plus-size individuals. Brooks’ Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar provides full-foot support that cradles your foot and encourages a natural stride, and the shoes come in a wide array of widths to accommodate every walker. The BioMoGo DNA foam midsole offers adaptable cushioning that responds to unique strides and weights and helps reduce joint impact. The leather upper is durable and stiffer than mesh walking shoes for extra support, and the certified slip-resistant soles provide traction on slick surfaces.

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 14.5 oz Drop: 12 mm Price: $130

SHOP FROM BROOKS

Pros: Versatile, rugged, affordable Cons: Look isn't for everyone

While most slip-on shoes opt for minimalism that can't stand up for more than a few hours on your feet, the Jungle Moc goes big. It has a supportive footbed, a super-comfy EVA midsole, and a rugged rubber outsole that you can take off-road. It's telling that the shoe has been a staple in Merrell's lineup for more than 20 years, but we were somehow still surprised to try the latest version of the Moc (featuring a recycled footbed) and find that it's really as comfortable all day long as everyone's been saying it is.

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 10.93 oz Drop: not specified Price: $100

SHOP FROM MERRELL

Best Boot: Blundstone Original 550

Pros: Good for dressing up, supportive Cons: Expensive compared to other picks

The Blundstone Original 550 boot is the semi-ugly Tasmanian gardener's boot that America wholeheartedly adopted due to its durability, easy Chelsea design , and ability to pair with anything. This best seller's leather upper is water-resistant for four-season use and the higher ankle provides extra support (but not overkill) to the ankles, perfect for a walk anywhere. Blundstone’s shock-absorbing sole provides excellent traction on different surfaces too and the boot can easily accommodate an insole (and it comes with a volume filler that goes under the stock insole)—if there is one travel shoe that I found can truly do everything, it’s the Blundstone Original 550.

Unisex Weight: 16.93 oz (US men's 9) Drop: not specified Price: $230

Pros: Responsive, comfy upper Cons: Not the best for fast runs

In testing the latest version of one of Saucony's most beloved running shoes, we were surprised at how responsive and comfortable it was, and also how stable it felt underfoot. As a result, we found ourselves lacing up the Triumph 21 for quick errands in addition to quicker runs, where the cushy midsole absorbs impact. It's definitely a run-first shoe, but if you're into one-pair travel and plan to walk a lot do some jogging, the new Triumph is an excellent choice that'll keep you comfy in Main Cabin, museums, and beyond.

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 9.8 oz Drop: 10 mm Price: $160

Best Walking Shoes for Wide Feet: Altra Timp 5

Pros: Roomy toe box, excellent grip Cons: Zero-drop can take getting used to

Technically, the Timp isn't a hiking shoe, it's a trail running shoe . But the combination of lightness, support, grip, and wide footbox that makes it ideal for trail running also makes it perfect for any trip or day that involves a lot of walking, especially if a chunk of it is going to be on dirt and rock and roots. The Timp has a Vibram Megagrip outsole for extra grip. It also has the two features that have earned Altra tons of appreciation from runners—a wider, foot-shaped toe box and zero drop from heel to toe. This can take some getting used to, but most who do come to love it. (It's also worth saying that the American Podiatric Medical Association awarded the shoe a Seal of Acceptance.)

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 9.8 oz Drop: 0 mm Price: $155

Pros: Grippy, supportive, easy on/off Cons: Take some wearing in

Birkenstock may have secured a reputation as hippie footwear, but its shoes have also had street cred among podiatrists and orthopedists—for nearly a century. Every pair, including the Tokio Super Grips, has a super-supportive sculpted footbed with built-in arch support and wears in well over time. The Tokios add a heel strap to the classic clog for extra security and a grippy rubber outsole that makes them capable of true all-day wear. Birkenstock imagined them partly for service workers and health professionals (as in, folks who are on their feet all day), so they'll handle cruising around town just fine. (Also, if you're a fan of "The Bear," these are what Carmy and Syd wear in the kitchen.)

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 12.98 oz (US men's 9) Drop: not specified Price: $155

SHOP FROM ZAPPOS

Pros: Supportive, great for varied terrain Cons: Heavier than other sandals

Chacos have separated themselves from the strappy sandals crowd—known for minimal support—with their big, supportive soles. They're ideal for nearly any type of outdoor activity where sandals fit the bill—one of our testers even hikes a big portion of the Appalachian Trail in a pair of Z/1s. The Mega Z/Cloud takes that recipe and gears it even further towards comfort, making it the ideal sandal for outdoor activities and casual cruising all day long. One of the ways it does that is with Chaco's slightly softer Cloud cushioning, and another way is with extra-wide straps. We've found that these straps provide more security with less pressure on the edges compared to other sandals, even on uneven terrain. They have more of a hug feel to them, rather than the typical cinching down. Like other Chacos, they have a super-grippy outsole that can handle trails, rivers, rocks, and sidewalks.

Women's Option: Yes Weight: 13.3 oz Drop: not specified Price: $105

SHOP FROM CHACO

Frequently Asked Questions

What to look for in walking shoes.

The best walking shoes should be comfortable and provide ample stability, with a cushioned sole for shock absorption and good arch support to prevent foot fatigue and avoid injury. Walking shoes feature varying levels of drop (the difference between the height of the heel and the forefoot) and midsole cushioning, which will affect how each pair feels and provide different levels of stability. Those with particular needs, like additional support or correction for overpronation or help with knee pain or issues to the plantar fascia, may benefit from a neutral shoe with a custom insole.

Most brands have a higher heel-to-toe drop but there are still brands making zero drop shoes. The jury is out on if drop causes or prevents injury, but as a general rule, those who need immediate arch support or have heel pain will benefit from a traditional drop (10mm). Those who are looking to strengthen their arches over time or have plantar fasciitis will benefit from zero drop shoes. Some of us have flat feet or wide feet, so as always, it's best to try on shoes in-store to get the right fit—nay, the perfect fit.

Breathability

A lightweight and breathable design is also important to keep your feet cool and dry in warmer conditions. Breathable sneakers will prevent moisture build up on the inside, which can lead to blisters and other ailments that take the fun out of walking. Waterproof shoes and hiking boots such as those with Gore-Tex (often denoted as GTX in the shoe name) will inherently be less breathable due to the presence of that waterproof membrane. The right socks can also help keep your feet dry.

Wide Toe Box

The shoe should fit snugly with enough room for your toes to move and splay out, especially over the course of a long day packed with strolls. Some shoes are designed with extra wide toe boxes to promote natural movement and toe splay and will be denoted as such in the description. Designs vary from brand to brand—Asics won't use the same last as Reebok or New Balance, for example—but you'll also find that shoes vary within brands too.

If you’re in the market for a walking shoe that also performs on trails, look for durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Grippy soles and deeper lugs will provide better traction on wet and uneven surfaces, but they might not be as comfy on pavement and sidewalks all day long. Upper and midsole materials will, naturally, wear out over time too, especially some of the softer meshes and foams found in many lightweight running shoes with lots of cushioning. On the other end of the spectrum, a good leather boot will last the longest, but it might not provide the most comfort.

How Do I Break In My New Shoes?

Walk in them! If you're buying walking shoes for a trip, wear them for shorter jaunts around home first. Wear them at work, to the grocery store, and around your home. There are hacks to make the break-in period go faster, but in our experience the best way to do it is the old fashioned way. Most of the shoes on our list don't really need a break in period—these aren't backpacking boots.

How Often Should I Replace My Walking Shoes?

Replace your walking shoes when they start to show real signs of wear and tear. This might look like worn out tread, torn mesh, or delaminating layers. Be mindful of replacing them too soon—a tiny hole in the upper might not look nice but is probably nothing to worry about, and most walking shoes should last for 300 to 500 miles and even beyond. Repair or resole them when you can (especially if they're boots), and check the brand's warranty program if they seem to fall apart too soon.

Is It Okay To Buy Running Shoes For Walking?

Yes! With a cushioned and supportive construction, many running shoes and trail running shoes make great walking shoes. Some running shoes might have features specifically for running that won't do much for you if walking is all you plan to use them for though—you don't need a carbon fiber plate in there—so just make sure the features aren't too extra.

If you're more of a sandal person, here's our guide to the best hiking sandals .

Published 04-26-2023

Updated 03-27-2024

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28 Best Travel Shoes For Ultimate Comfort and Support

Stroll pleasantly through your next trip, wherever it takes you, with the 28 best travel shoes for packability, comfort, and style.

You’ve done the research for the trip of a lifetime—or just a month—but while we love to focus on what travel backpack to carry and what places to explore, it’s easy to forget to focus on what takes us along the way: our feet! You’re not likely to spend your trip on the couch binge-watching Netflix, so finding the most comfortable walking shoes to support your feet during a full day of exploration is essential.

Here at Pack Hacker, we like minimalist travel shoes that are lightweight and easy to pack for your next vacation . Footwear with a wider toe box (or no toe box at all in the case of sandals) feels better after an epic hike or long travel day when your feet start to swell, and zero-drop soles help with balance and posture while taking weight off the more fragile parts of your foot. They’re not for everyone, though, so we’ve included more supportive options on this list, as well. Whichever works for you, it’s usually best to break things in before you hit the road. We wouldn’t want a blister to come between you and the perfect vacation!

To help you get started, we've broken down the best travel shoes on this list into categories.

“Taking Care of Business” shoes are dressy enough to be used at a business meeting, date, or fancy-dress event without sacrificing the comfort you need for walking around all day. You don't want to go too over the top, because then you can't wear them for the rest of the trip.

With “Daily Driver” shoes, comfort and support are king. You'll be wearing these for most of your travels, so it's essential that you can wear them all day. Style isn't as important, but it shouldn't be forgotten, so we’ve chosen options that balance both design and feel.

The “Sandal/Flip Flop” category is pretty self-explanatory. These are for relaxing, visiting the beach, and warm climates. You can also use these on a road trip or as an in-between shoe at the hotel or hostel.

“Comfort” shoes are exactly as the name describes—they're comfortable. Think slippers, slip-ons, and other easy-to-use footwear that you can relax in after a long day on your feet. This category doesn’t often provide the best solo travel shoes, but they can make a world of difference after a long day.

So whether you’re looking for a shoe that will fit in at the Sistine Chapel or one to run the perimeter of the Grand Canyon, we’ve got the best travel shoe for you. Let’s dig in.

• Allbirds Wool Runners
• Xero Shoes Prio
• Skechers GOwalk 4 Travel Shoes
• Teva Hurricane XLT2
• HOKA Transport
• Brooks Ghost 15
• Vivobarefoot Gobi III
• Vessi Cityscape
• Lems Chillum
• Chaco Townes Sandal
• Vessi Weekend
• Earth Runners Primal Sandals
• Rothy's The Sneaker
• BIRKENSTOCK Arizona Essentials EVA
• Tieks Ballet Flats
• Nike Free Run Road Running Shoes
• New Balance 574 Core
• Sperry Men’s Authentic Original Boat Shoe
• Clarks Women’s Breeze Sea
• OOFOS OOriginal Sandal
• Tropicfeel Monsoon Sneakers
• Greys The Outdoor Slipper
• Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
• Vivobarefoot Ra III
• VEJA Condor 2 Road-Running Shoes
• adidas Ultraboost Light Running Shoes
• Taos Winner Sneakers

Best: Sockless shoe

Category: Daily Driver

Wanting to feel like you're walking on air all day long is for the birds—Allbirds, that is. Whether waiting in line for Space Mountain or trekking to the Trevi Fountain, you’ll appreciate Allbirds Wool Runners' comfortable sole that conforms to the flexibility of your foot.

We recommend Merino wool travel gear for many reasons, including its being naturally antimicrobial. Since Allbirds uses it for these shoes, you can rock the sockless look without worrying about them stinking up your luggage when you repack for the trip home. In fact, we recommend going sockless no matter what, as we’ve found that the shoe’s shape often makes ankle socks fall out of place.

While you could just raid your gym bag for comfortable walking shoes, we prefer a more streamlined look when considering the best shoes for travel. The Allbirds Wool Runners have a more trendy style and will complement the various pieces in your capsule wardrobe. Plus, each shoe is only 1 lb (453.6 g), so they won’t weigh down your bag like other bulky footwear does. And, bonus, you'll save space by leaving your socks home!

• The materials conform to your feet for supreme comfort
• We’ve had no issues with stinky feet even when wearing these without socks due to the moisture-wicking and antimicrobal properties of Merino wool
• These aren’t the best for a serious working out, so we only recommend them for everyday wear
• Users with sensitive skin might still need to wear socks, as the primary material is Merino wool

Best: Vegan friendly

The best travel shoes are ones you reach for every day of your trip. When you’re looking for a minimalist shoe to take you through the morning trip to the cafe, a day spent exploring museums and the local park, and that still looks good when you hit the pub for some local flavor, the Xero Shoes Prio are good to grab.

These are an excellent choice for vegan world travelers since Xero uses 100% vegan-friendly products, including rubber, canvas, and microfiber. We love that don't skimp on comfort and durability, either—we barely feel like we’re wearing shoes when we have them on If you start to feel like you need a refresh, there’s a 5,000-mile warranty on the soles. Xero says if they've worn down to a 1 mm thickness on the outsoles at the heel or ball of your foot within that time, you can get a new pair for 60% off.

Unlike many other comfortable walking shoes, these compress to fit easily in your daypack. You can even roll them up, though we don’t recommend leaving them that way as it may put an undue strain on the materials. They're lightweight, too (between 6.4 and 7.6 ounces each, depending on your size), so they won't add much to your baggage limit.

• They’re vegan-friendly
• They have a barefoot feel that feels natural on your feet
• These are not ideal if you’ll be traveling in cold climates
• The materials will fold after a while of being packed in your bag

Best for: Frugal Travelers

Best: Versatile travel shoe

You may read the word “Skechers” and think, “that’s not for me.” Bear with us, though, because the Skechers GOwalk4 Travel Shoes are not the clunky designs you remember from the early aughts. These lightweight loafers have a slimmer look you can wear with pants, shorts, skirts, and casual dresses, making packing for one bag travel a breeze. And if loafers aren’t your thing, they’re available in eight different versions for maximum versatility, including lace-up styles.

While you can sport no-show socks with these, the bamboo-lined inner sole resists odors, so you can opt to go sockless, too. Skechers improved the water resistance of these comfortable walking shoes from the prior version, so you're set for whatever Mother Nature throws at you.

These may be the best shoes for your travels, thanks to the Goga Pillars (pillars on the bottom of the shoe that cushion any hard impacts) and responsive midsole cushioning that will put a spring in every step you take. We’ve had no issues walking around for days in this shoe—in fact, we’ve tested these for over a year across seventeen countries and various terrain. Our complaints are largely aesthetic, so if that’s not a concern (or you like the style anyway), this is a great travel shoe to consider.

At just over 5 ounces each, they won’t weigh down your bag, so you don’t have to fear the scale when you check in for your flight. If you do go over, have a look—the soles are prone to picking up rocks, so you may be able to ditch a few ounces if you spy any hiding under your feet.

• They’re easy to slip on and go
• The style isn’t very versatile, so they won’t work for a fancy dress event
• You won’t be able to work out with these

Best: Hiking sandal

Category: Sandal/Flip Flop

Feel the air on your feet as you traverse the trails and woods of the world with these travel shoes from Teva. The sturdy EVA footbed will take on all-day adventures, and you can adjust the straps to get the right fit. This version of the iconic Hurricane has soft padding on the heel strap to prevent rubbing and blisters, and the updated sole has even better traction than before, so you can grip the ground as you climb the forest floor or the pyramid steps. Plus, the upper is adjustable in three different spots, so it’s really easy to get a customized fit.

They’re environmentally friendly, too: the fast-drying webbing is made with recycled plastic, saving four plastic bottles from landfills. Teva will also keep them out of the trash when you’re ready for an upgrade—the TevaForever recycling program accepts any style of your well-loved Teva travel shoes to save them from the dump.

In our experience, these are excellent shoes for activities like rock hunting because you can wear them into the water. They're secured onto your feet so you won't lose them, and you can pick up all the pretty rocks and shells you want while wading through the water. Since they're small enough to save space in your pack, you can bring your finds home!

• They’re lightweight but sturdy, so you can wear them anywhere
• Because of the design, they’re incredibly packable
• If you get cold feet, these aren’t for you
• Rocks can sneak inside under your foot and be hard to remove

Best: Versatile adventure shoe

The Hoka Transport blends style, comfort, and versatility that can take you nearly anywhere, from city streets to Disney World and a rugged mountain trail. There are men's and women's versions available, so you can get a shoe that works perfectly for your foot. Plus, there are seven colorways available at the time of writing, so you can get a shoe that'll go with your travel clothing or go with something more generic like black, white, or gray to go with any outfit.

The Vibram® EcoStep Natural outsole is durable and will give you a pep in your step to explore new places or head into the office the morning before your weekend getaway. The upper is crafted from CORDURA® RE/CORETM with 100% rPET (Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate), which is sustainable, durable, and breathable. Plus, you can go for a run once you arrive if you're feeling sporty the morning after you arrive at your destination. These might be the best travel shoes for your next trip based on the fit, comfort, and versatility!

• They offer maximum support on all sides
• The upper is durable and recycled, making it more sustainable
• They’re a bit sporty looking for some outfits
• They don’t pack down very small

Best: Hybrid running/walking shoe

Brooks Ghost Running Shoes are some of the most popular trainers for runners, walkers, and adventure seekers. Whether you're hitting the asphalt to train for a 5K, walking all day, or want to be comfortable on your feet, these shoes are a solid option. Plus, there are 40 colorways at the time of writing, men's and women's versions, and four widths to choose from. That way, you can find a shoe that matches your vibe and fits your foot with precision!

Despite being lightweight for running, the soles on these shoes are no slouch. It offers support and protection without slowing you down. They look sporty, which is going to only work for some travelers and some trips; however, you can always find a use for a pair of comfortable walking shoes!

• They’re great for running, hiking, and general use
• There are a ton of colorways to choose from
• They look like running shoes, which won’t work for everyone
• If you take your running shoes while traveling, your pack might smell

Best: Barefoot boot

Category: Taking Care of Business

Tossing boots, dress shoes, and tennis shoes in your pack takes up a lot of room in your bag. Luckily, the Vivobarefoot Gobi III may be the best travel shoes on the market for you, since its minimalist boot-like look complements plenty of styles. The Gobi III desert boots strike a balance between urban and rural fashion so you can pack just one pair of shoes for your business meeting and your after-work stroll—you can wear these for the entire trip!

They're made primarily of biodegradable Portuguese leather, with the remainder of the shoe made from other renewable natural materials like organic cotton and an insole made from sugar cane. We’ve noticed that they take a little getting used to because of the barefoot design and stiff (to start) leather, but they’ll soon become the most comfortable walking shoes you own. The cork insole is very slim and flexible, and it helps ease the transition to barefoot soles. Don't be surprised if once you turn minimalist, you don't want to go back; we love feeling grounded as we do with Vivobarefoot.

• You can use these as boots, dress shoes, and athletic shoes in a pinch
• They offer a unique, sleek look that isn’t common for barefoot shoes
• The fit takes some getting used to, both because of the barefoot design and leather upper that requires some breaking in
• Some users don’t like the cork insole–it can get slimy

Best: Slip-on sneaker

Set it and forget it with the Vessi Cityscape. We streamline the travel process whenever possible, and the stretch knit upper of the Cityscape lets us lace these comfortable walking shoes up once, then slip them on and off with ease at the airport or Airbnb. These shoes are the best for travel because they have a lightweight but grippy sole and extremely-supportive molded insoles.

In our experience, these shoes feel as if you're wearing a comfortable pair of socks all the time, no matter what you're doing. That doesn't mean it won't eventually get a little sweaty in there, but it's still comfortable.

They’ve got an urban look and feel that’s just as stylish in the beer garden as they are at the Met. They’re waterproof, too—it's built right into the knit fabric so your feet are protected from winter slush and spring rains. Its breathable, though, so your feet won't sweat. If they start developing unsavory aromas, slip the built-in anti-odor layer out for washing to be a good travel companion. You don't want your hotel room to smell like a locker.

• You can slip them on so you’re ready to roll at a moment’s notice
• The design works as well at the bar as it does on a first date
• The sole is squeaky for longer than expected, though it fades with time
• They run a little small

Best: Comfortable walking shoes

Diving into the world of barefoot shoes can be jarring for first-time users. The good news is that the Lems Chillum is a good entry point for those who want to try out the style. The pair's relatively thick soles make them comfortable walking shoes while still delivering that barefoot sensation. They're also easy to pack thanks to their lightweight and flexible construction. And, because of its clean style, it also doesn't look radically different from regular shoes if you want to blend in more naturally.

That said, if you're looking for the (nearly) full barefoot shoe experience, then the Chillum probably isn't for you. The thick soles also have a zero drop design that is uniform and level from heel to toe. In other words, while the Chillum is a beginner-friendly best travel shoes pick, it may not satisfy enthusiasts.

• They’re barefoot shoes that aren’t as shocking for those looking to get into the style
• The shoes are lightweight and easy to pack
• They don’t offer the whole barefoot experience, so we recommend enthusiasts look elsewhere
• There are limited colorways available, though they’re pretty basic, so there’s a chance one will work for you

Best: Day-to-night travel sandals

Sometimes you want to take your travel shoe style up a notch. You can with the Townes, a sleek sandal that adapts to many situations. The leather construction is comfortable when you detour onto a dusty trail to take in the views of a national park or the sights of the river walk.

They look just as nice with jeans as with dresses, and we appreciate the duality when looking for the best sandals for one-bag travel. You can slip these on at home, get through security and your flight, and then hit the ground running to take in all the sights when you reach your destination, all without switching shoes (though we’d opt for the socks and sandals look before walking barefoot at the airport).

The full-grain leather Chaco Townes is available in a few different designs topped with a metal buckle. Choose from neutral colorways knowing you’ll have comfortable walking shoes, thanks to the cushy footbed that cradles your feet with substantial arch support. Just be prepared for some squeaking until they break in—we’ve noticed the soles are a pretty loud right of the box.

• They have a more formal feel without losing the athletic look we often see in similar sandals from Chaco
• You can wear them at the beach, around town, and in the store
• Avoid getting them wet if possible, as we’ve noticed they can get a bit slimy and the leather takes a while to dry
• We don’t love them for days with a ton of walking—at least not until they’re fully broken in

Best: Easy on and off

What makes the Vessi Weekend the best travel shoes is their easy use. Even with the lace-up tennis shoe design, they can be slipped on quickly when you need to rush out the door—great for making it on time for your flight and removing them at TSA without holding up the line. They also have a surprisingly breathable waterproof design and a soft footbed that won't leave you sore after a long day of touring the city.

Watch out for dirt, though. The Weekend's fabric is fairly susceptible to soot and mud and may catch some blemishes as you walk down the sidewalk. We dig the light colorways, but it's a shame whenever it gets marked up. That said, it's no harder to clean than other casual shoes.

• We can slip them on and off quickly and easily
• It’s a pretty versatile look even though they lean on the more casual side
• They pick up dirt and grime easily; we still haven’t been able to remove a mysterious stain from a trip to Thailand
• The white soles dirty quicker than the upper (unless you go with the all-white shoe, in which case all bets are off)

Best: Minimalist sandal

When Pack Hacker team members dream about the best sandal for travel, this is the footwear we're wearing. Seriously, though, the Earth Runners Primal Sandals are a minimalist packer's dream: they're extremely thin, lightweight, and flexible. You can run in them or stroll down the beach without that slapping noise you get with flip-flops. We recommend just walking in the rain since it gets a bit slippery, though the bottom tread provides excellent traction otherwise.

What sets these apart from other best travel shoes is how form-fitting they are. Once you break them in, you won't even notice they're there because of the barefoot sandal design. You want to focus on that once-in-a-lifetime sunset or the friends you're on safari with, after all—not your shoes. The best travel shoes blend into the background, so you don't feel your feet after a day spent standing on them, and these fit the bill.

• They don’t slap onto the ground while you’re wearing them
• The ultra-minimalist design takes up virtually no space in a travel backpack
• The thin strap isn’t as secure as other everyday sandals
• These have a barefoot design that takes some getting used to

Best: Eco-friendly travel shoe

We love exploring the world, so we like to be kind to Mother Earth. These travel shoes from Rothy’s check that mark—they spin their signature thread from recycled plastic, and about 13 bottles are kept from landfills with each pair of these sneakers. The company is working to be LEED- and TRUE-certified by using green building practices and getting down to zero waste.

Being eco-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style, either. These comfortable walking shoes slip on for easy traveling—just pop them off and on as you wend your way through TSA. Pick from a variety of classic and seasonal colorways and patterns—from solid navy or white to leopard—and pop them in the washing machine when needed. The shoe fits true to size for most, though we recommend sizing up if you like to pair them with no-show socks, as they don’t stretch over time. If you’re hunting for the best travel shoes that are sustainable, these hit the mark.

• They’re crafted from recycled plastic but don’t feel like it
• We dig how easy it is to slip them on
• They work for every occasion—well, within reason
• We don’t think they’re the best choice for multiple days of extended walking

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

Best: Beach sandals

BIRKENSTOCKS aren’t typically what we reach for when combing the beach, but since the Arizona Essentials are made with EVA instead of cork and leather, we feel free to dash into the waves to rescue the Frisbee without fear of ruining them.

Let the jokes about “BIRKEN-Crocs” fly, but these are lightweight, waterproof travel shoes that still rock the contoured footbed we love in our #birkies. Depending on the colorway you’re sporting, they can resemble leather, and the sides of the soles have a textured look that mimics a traditional pair. The adjustable straps allow us to find the perfect fit, and the bold colorway options let us sport our style.

In our experience, these shoes are the perfect option for a road trip because of how durable and easy to slip on they are. If you need to run into the gas station to pay or get snacks, you can easily throw them on and go. If you want to unwind in the car without shoes on, pop them back off. They’re rugged enough to hold up to short hikes or walks around the campground. After you’re done climbing the dunes, just rinse the sand off—they’ll be clean and dry in no time. If you plan to hit the beach frequently, these might be the best travel shoes for you. Just don’t be surprised when the lighter colorways start to show dirt—our white pair isn’t quite as shiny as it used to be, though we’ve noticed stains only stick around if you leave them on for a while.

• You can pop them on and off quickly, whether you’re barefoot or wearing socks
• They’re durable and waterproof, so they’re great for vacations or beach trips
• The entire shoe is one material, so there’s no cushy footbed to add insulation or grip
• You probably won’t get any compliments if you choose to wear socks with them

Best: Women’s dress shoe

A little black dress can fit the bill for nearly every occasion, so why not a little black shoe? Tieks has taken this closet staple and turned it into the best shoe for travel with a split sole that allows the ballet slippers to fold in half, with the toe tucking into the heel to fit easily in your carry-on bag. The soles are non-skid and have a cushioned instep to keep you comfortable throughout the day and into the night, and the padded back protects against rubbing.

While we’re recommending a neutral color for versatility, they come in a wide variety of shades and patterns if monochrome isn’t your thing—all with the same bright teal sole. The disadvantage is that the sole is visible even when you’re wearing the shoe, giving you a pop of color whether you want it or not. However, we like that the full-grain Italian leather develops a patina over time, and the simple design looks just as well with lululemon leggings as with a flowy dress, so these are the best travel shoes for day to night.

• They fold up to pack down incredibly small to fit into your pack
• They’re easy to dress up or down for everyday or formal wear
• Every model has a teal sole, which is visible even when you’re wearing the shoe
• The folding design is great for storage, though we find them hard to flatten out again

Best: Vacation running shoe

You may be on vacation, but training waits for no one. What to do? Pack a running shoe that's the best for travel with its malleable upper, of course.

The Nike Free Run 2018 is good for getting in shorter runs, and its flexible design is easy to fit in your tote or backpack for that last-minute trip to Chicago. They weigh less than many other running shoes, though you don't have to sacrifice performance. The rounded heel rolls with the ground as you stride, providing support in a lightweight option.

Lace them up and live like a local, running along Lake Michigan and seeing the pleasure boaters, water taxis, and more while you get in your morning exercise. The soft, lightweight sole mimics your foot's natural movement by expanding and contracting with every landing and push-off, so you'll still have a spring in your step when it's time to hit Navy Pier and the Field Museum. For trips short and long, these are some of the best travel shoes to get you there.

• You can wear them for more intense workouts or long walks across the city
• They slip in quickly and easily
• They look sporty (maybe in a good way)
• They aren’t the best running shoes on this list

Best: Dad shoe

Everybody needs a pair of dad shoes. That might seem like an insult, but we don't mean it as one. A dad shoe is where comfort, practicality, and price take priority over style. That's not to say that the New Balance 574 Core isn't a stylish shoe (we think it is); however, you won't see these strolling down the runway at fashion week. That said, what they don't have in cutting-edge fashion sense, they make up for in versatility, comfort, and support for your feet. Those are important things to think about while traveling!

These shoes can be dressed up or down. You probably shouldn't wear them to a wedding, but if you did, you'd probably get less crap than you think you might. These aren't active shoes, but because of their design, you can wear them walking around all day without much discomfort. You won't find them in vibrant colorways, but their subdued look, combined with the versatility we've gone over, make them one of the best travel shoes on this list.

• These shoes have support, comfort, and stability without going over-the-top in design to get it
• We dig the colorway options available
• They’re dad shoes, for better or worse
• You can’t easily work out in them, so they’re best as a daily driver

Best: Boat shoe

Be the captain of your adventure when you slip on Sperry travel shoes. These are the original boat shoe, and they stand the test of time, getting more comfortable with each wear. The hand-sewn full-grain leather moccasins mold to fit your feet like a comfy pair of slippers. Lace them up to get the perfect fit, and they also go on and off with ease, smoothing the path through security. We’ve noticed they run a little big, so we recommend sizing down a half size. Plus, the leather will break in over time, so they’ll loosen up even more.

Luckily, you'll look stylish in one of several neutral colorways, which pair well with jeans, shorts, and skirts. The whole family can get set in Sperry and stay comfortable walking for hours staring at new sights, thanks to the Ortholite cushioning. Then take an evening stroll along the boardwalk and salute the Skipper—you'll feel right at home. If you love being on the water, these are some of the best travel shoes on the market.

• They slip on fast and easy
• They’re on the dressier side for a slip-on shoe
• You’ll need to take care of them to keep them from smelling over time (or just wear socks more often than not)
• Your feet might get cold on chillier evenings on the water

Best: Support for bad feet

The high-density foam and EVA midsole Clarks uses in its Breeze Sea sandals make you feel like you’re walking on a cloud—we think that’s why they call them Cloudsteppers. What’s in a name, though? A rose is still a rose, and these sandals have a supportive, softly-lined Ortholite footbed to cushion your soles throughout your travel adventures. Clarks built its brand on designing shoes for those with foot problems, and these sandals are no exception. They’re travel shoes that will keep you going throughout the day, whether at the beach, the farmer’s market, or the museum, so you don’t have aching arches by dinnertime.

They tend to run a little big, although there’s a hook-and-loop closure so you can find the perfect fit, and the narrower design helps keep them from feeling too loose. Choose from a rainbow of colors to match every outfit and occasion, including some fun metallic options, to be set for wherever the breeze blows you.

• They’re incredibly comfortable thanks to high-density foam and EVA
• They offer support for those with foot issues
• They run slightly large while still being on the narrow side of things
• They can look a little—ahem—outdated depending on the color you choose

Best: Supportive sandal

The OOFOS OOriginal Sandal comes highly recommended by Pack Hacker Pro Member William, so we knew we had to try them for ourselves. William raved about their comfort and how long they last and described to us that he’s had multiple pairs over the years. Once we got them at our HQ in Detroit and saw their durability first-hand, it was game over! In addition to being a more durable thong-style flip flop, the sole is thick enough to offer more support than we're used to getting from this kind of shoe.

That said, they don't pack down as small as other flip flops and sandals, which might not be ideal for ultralight packers. That said, you can compress them small enough, and the comfort offered by this model makes them a worthy addition to the best travel shoes post!

• They’re more durable than others of a similar style
• They have more support than you’d expect
• They don’t pack down as small as other sandals
• Some users don’t like how thick the upper is

Best: Water shoe

Climbing Dunn River Falls is an iconic excursion in Jamaica, but there’s nothing more creepy than renting swim shoes from a stand by the side of the road. Plan ahead and pack your Tropicfeel Monsoon Sneakers since these are water-resistant travel shoes you can wear on land or in the sea.

They’re super lightweight and packable, which is why they made it on our Vacation Packing List , and the breathable mesh and built-in drainage holes make them a no-brainer for dashing into the waves. In fact, they’re so breathable that we can actively feel a breeze come through the shoe when we’re wearing them outside. That’s great for keeping your feet cool, though it’s also why we recommend wearing socks on colder days and putting these shoes away for the winter.

Tropicfeel has sped up the process of tying your shoes with sprint laces, although there’s a learning curve: if the knots are tight, the laces can stick out, but when we move the knots to the end, the shoes can get a little loose. Play around to find what works for you, and then find the nearest waterfall to climb on your next adventure.

• They’re water-resistant and include holes to let water drain out if you wear them as water shoes
• You can comfortably wear them through the city, on sand, or in the water
• It takes a while to get used to the laces
• They aren’t as comfortable when they’re soaked

Best: Travel slipper

Category: Comfort

On a long-haul flight, we want to lay back and relax like we’re on the couch at home to help the hours speed past. Get that couch-potato feel, without the slouchy look, with The Outdoor Slipper from Greys. They are the perfect travel shoe if you’re focused on comfort because the wool blend is soft and won’t cause your feet to overheat, and the sole and reinforced toe box make them sturdy enough to wear outside without the fear of slipping you get in plush-bottomed slippers.

Yes, these are slippers, but they’ve got a sleek look you won’t be embarrassed to be seen in, thanks to the fact that they have full coverage on the heel. You don't want anyone to see that hole you're hiding in your favorite socks, after all. They’re odor-resistant, too, for the comfort of your travel companions. Once you reach your destination, switch them out or keep them on—we won’t judge your travel shoe choice!

• They’re easy to slip on and off at a moment’s notice
• The materials are incredibly cozy
• Some users note that their feet sweat more than usual in them
• They take up a lot of room while traveling, and since they’re not designed for everyday wear, we recommend bringing them on trips where you’re spending lots of time indoors

Best: For rugged adventures

When you're looking for a travel shoe that can conquer cobblestone streets, climb mountains and run a 10K race, look no further than the Lems Mesa. Oh, and did we mention it's also great for exploring new places and taking you from gate to gate at the airport?

While they give off an athletic shoe vibe, it's still a pretty nice aesthetic, provided you're not trying to make a business presentation. The exterior of the vegan shoes is lightweight, breathable, and fast-drying knit mesh, so wearing these shoes feels a lot like wearing socks. And since they dry so quickly, you don't have to worry about repacking them after a sudden downpour or if you end up with sweatier-than-usual feet after a day of walking around a new city.

The EVA midsole and molded PU footbed are comfortable enough to do that, though, and the outsole is a textured rubber that grips most surfaces out there, from concrete to gravel to dirt. Even so, you can fold these puppies in half to squeeze them into your travel backpack. While we wouldn't recommend doing so for long because it can strain the materials, their compressibility helps check all the boxes of a good travel shoe.

• They’re durable and rugged enough for the roughest outdoor adventures
• They’re comfortable in any environment
• Not a ton of structure compared to other outdoor shoes
• The tongue may bother those with thicker ankles because of the size

Best: Lightweight versatile shoe

The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 is an everyday shoe that can be worn everywhere, making it the ultimate travel companion for trips of all shapes and sizes. At the time of writing, there are 16 colorway options, so you can get a pair that matches your vibes, too. The lyocell upper is comfortable and breathable, so you can get through the day without too much foot sweat.

In addition to having outstanding comfort, this shoe is stylish, too. Depending on the colorway that you choose, these sneakers can be dressed up or down, worn for a light workout, or taken on a hike. No matter where you go, they’ll make you look like you belong there!

• You can wear them anywhere, from the city to the trail
• There are more than a dozen colorways available
• Those with ankle issues. might want more support
• The lighter colorways are challenging to keep clean

Best for: Full-time Travelers

Best: Barefoot everyday shoe

When you’re looking for an everyday shoe that doesn’t sacrifice minimalist form for design, we dig the aesthetics of the Vivobarefoot Ra III. We like that barefoot shoes like the Ra III easily compress to fit inside limited bag space, and these shoes look nice enough to wear just about anywhere, whether you’re taking in local museums and markets or getting a little fancier for dinner out.

The Oxford-style lace-up shoe is made with Wild Hide leather, a naturally scarred leather of free-roaming cattle raised by small-scale farmers in Ethiopia. While this makes us feel good from an ethical-sourcing standpoint, we also like that the flexible and breathable shoes will continue looking as good as the day we got them because we plan to take them on trips for years. While the low-top design isn’t as good for protecting your ankles on motorbikes in our experience, the packability is a worthy trade-off. And hey, bringing these shoes along on your next trip means you can save space on socks, too.

• They compress enough so you can fit them into nearly any travel backpack
• The leather is durable and offers a unique look
• The look feels stuck in-between dressy and casual
• The design doesn’t offer much protection for your ankles

Best for: Sustainable Travelers

Best: To complement a variety of styles

With Alveomesh uppers that are light and breathable and an inner sock construction for comfort, the VEJA Condor 2 Road-Running Shoes are a supportive shoe that’s pretty easy to keep clean. VEJA uses vegan and sustainable materials throughout its product line, and while some models are sportier, we think these shoes pair well with casual attire and slightly dressier clothing. That makes them a good choice for your capsule wardrobe, provided you’re not planning to travel to a wedding or another more formal event.

More than half the materials used in the shoes are recycled or bio-based, like the uppers, linings, and laces, which come from recycled plastic bottles. The outsoles are 30% Amazonian rubber that’s naturally sticky, so you won’t slip on the trail or a wet sidewalk. And if you want to work out on your trip, these will be great travel companions.

• They offer a ton of support and sole comfort
• The materials are crafted from recycled plastic bottles
• They can run tight on the sides
• There are limited colorways available

Best: Hypebeast comfort

We know what you might be thinking: Ultraboosts?! On the best travel shoes post?! Well, hear us out. These Adidas kicks are stylish and have enough support to be comfortable all day, whether exploring a new city, wandering through new museums, or taking a short hike. The sole is thick so that you can rely on them on uneven city streets, too. Some users might not like the raised heel section, but we think it adds comfort and structure to the shoe. It isn't suffocating, either, which is a perk for people with sweaty feet.

In addition to being comfortable, the Adidas Ultraboost's stylish design comes in a variety of colorways. Plus, there are spin offs that stay true to the Ultraboost comfort level while adding uniqueness to an incredibly popular shoe. Watch out—sometimes, these special releases will cost you an arm and a leg! A quick search on StockX showcases unique models ranging from $100 to just under $3,000, proving that there's something here for every style and price range.

• We love the style for specific trips
• You’ll be comfortable in these all day long, even while crossing an unfamiliar city
• They don’t dress up at all
• It takes a while to get used to the heel design

Best: Leather travel shoe

The täōs Winner is one of the more unique shoes on this list, and we're here for it. The upper is crafted from leather, which is durable and looks sleek. There are white and black models available. We like both but wish something was in the middle, too. In addition to lacing like a standard pair of shoes, there's a zipper on the side to give you easier access to putting the shoe on and off. This is handy for those who like to get up and go in a jiffy and at the airport when you're putting your shoes on and off at security.

Despite looking more like a high-top in photos, these feel more like a mid-cut shoe. We find them supportive, especially on the inside of your foot, and are comfortable enough to wear around all day. If you aren't used to wearing a shoe that rides higher up on your ankle, it can take some getting used to, but we’ve noticed they break in quickly. The black model feels somewhat dressy, which has perks, but it can feel too formal for some outfits, limiting its use as a travel shoe.

• We dig the leather upper
• The zipper is handy for popping them on and off at the airport
• We wish that there was a colorway other than black and white
• Getting used to the fit takes a while

There you have it—the best travel shoes for any situation, whether you’re traveling by road, by air, or by sea to take a trip around the world or around the corner. Check out our website for full reviews on some of this footwear and other great travel clothing and accessories , and start planning your next vacation.

August 10, 2022

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

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10 Most Comfortable Travel Shoes for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Comfortable travel shoes can make or break your trip. How can you explore your destination on foot if you’re hampered by blisters and sore legs? Pack a pair of these good-looking and comfortable shoes and you’ll have one less thing to worry about on your vacation.

ABEO Addie Sneaker

Abeo’s Addie Sneakers are proof that shoes can be both stylish and comfortable. Choose from a wide range of colors (including a fun floral print) in either a washable canvas or durable leather exterior.

The Addie’s cute exterior hides a removable anatomical arch support and a cushioned footbed that offer nonstop comfort throughout the day. Best of all, the removable arch support is available in neutral or metatarsal (for high arches) so you can get a custom fit.

9 Tips to Finally Stop Overpacking

Nike Experience Run 11 Sneaker

Nike’s Experience Run 11 sneakers are my favorite running shoes, and I’ve discovered that they’re perfect for travel as well. The knit material means they have a slim profile that takes up less space in a suitcase than most sneakers. They come in a versatile all-black color, perfect for both working out and walking around, as well as six other color options.

Merrell World Legend 2s

Merrell has taken the technology that makes a comfortable travel shoe from its hiking shoes and transferred it to its professional-looking World Legend 2 shoes. Because these look like shoes that you’d wear to the office or an evening outing, no one would ever suspect that they are outfitted with a durable high-grip outsole, removable foam insole, and a shock-resistant heel. The Oxford-inspired style makes them easy to dress up or down, eliminating the need to pack an extra pair of dress shoes for nicer occasions.

Superga Sneakers

You probably didn’t think it was possible, but Superga sneakers are super-trendy, unisex, and extra-comfortable travel shoes. They’re most commonly spotted in magazines and on the feet of fashionistas, yet they have everything that makes a sneaker good for walking (arch support, a solid sole, laces) and come in a wide variety of colors and styles.

Shoes That Are Good for Your Feet, According to Doctors

Clarks Cloudstepper Ayla Low Slip-On s

Ballet flats tend not to be supportive enough to wear for travel, but the Ayla Low Slip-Ons from Clarks have a padded footbed for all-day comfort. They can be dressed up or down so you can wear them during the day or for dinner out.

Allbirds Wool Runners

Feel like you’re walking on clouds with a SmarterTravel favorite, Allbirds Wool Runners , available in men’s and women’s sizes. These shoes feature a merino wool liner for moisture wicking and odor reduction. Get them in white to match everything, or opt for pink or green to add a pop of color to your travel wardrobe.

5 Comfortable and Packable Dress Shoes You Can Actually Walk In

SAS Simone Italy Sandals

Planning a European vacation? Pack the Simone Italy sandals , handcrafted in Tuscany, Italy—so you can trust that these shoemakers know a thing or two about walking on cobblestone streets. The small wedge heel is 1.50”, which offers a bit of lift without sacrificing comfort, and the adjustable ankle keeps the sandal secure around your feet.

Keds Double Decker Leather Slip-On

In case you missed it, classic Keds have gotten a serious style upgrade. Check out the Keds Double Decker Leather Slip-On , which are made from soft leather that lends you a polished look. These slip on and off easily, so you can glide through the airport security checkpoint on your way to the plane.

6 Things Not to Wear on a Plane

Teva ReEMBER Moc

Those of us with frequently-cold feet have often wished we could wear something like sleeping bags on our feet, and Teva has made that dream come true with its ReEMBER Mocs . Made from 100% recycled polyester and billed as “part sneaker, part sleeping bag,” these are the ultimate comfortable travel shoes. They feel like slippers, but with a solid rubber outsole, they’re made for the outdoors. The ReEMBER Mocs (available for men and women ) are perfect for camping. When you’re ready to change out of your hiking boots, these will feel like sweet relief on your tired feet.

Wolf and Shepherd Swiftknit Derby

If you’re looking for comfortable travel shoes that are also easy to pack, try the Swiftknit Derby from Wolf and Shepherd. A stylish aesthetic mix between a sneaker and a derby shoe, these ultra-light shoes collapse easily so they take up barely any space in your suitcase. They come in a variety of colors to match any outfit.

Caroline Morse Teel thinks comfortable travel shoes can make or break a trip. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from around the world. Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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7 Best Travel Shoes

The right pair of travel walking shoes will keep you comfortable in the following situations:

• transportation (be it car, bus, plane, train or else)
• hours of walking through museums, galleries, malls
• strolls around the city, parks, smooth outdoor trails in warm weather

We have tested travel shoes extensively to make sure they live up to these expectations. Our impressions and lab test results are summarized and go on to show what each travel shoe pair is worthy of.

Whether you need a supportive shoe for flat feet, you want the shoe to be barely noticeable on foot, or you like to travel with style, we’ve got a top pick in these (and other) categories.

Other types of shoes for travel

Running shoes: You can also expand your options by looking into lightweight and breathable running shoes that provide supportive cushioning for hours of walking.

Casual sneakers: If you want to express your style while exploring the world, consider our vast selection of 1000+ trendy sneakers .

Hiking shoes: Those traveling outdoors, far from the smooth city streets, can have a look at the more rugged hiking-oriented footwear .

How we test walking shoes

First and foremost, we buy the walking shoes we want to test using our own funds. For us, the strict implementation of this rule helps us as testers to prevent ourselves from advocating shoes for no good reason. 

Following that is the actual wearing of the shoes. We do all the typical things we would do while in walking shoes - traveling, eating out, going to parks, standing all day, going to work - so, basically anything! This step allows us to share our thoughts and own feelings about the shoe's performance on long hours of wandering, walking on concrete, during rains, and other factors.

Finally, we cut the shoes into pieces. And we mean this literally! We put them through different kinds of tests inside our lab. Like for example, rating their breathability through a smoke machine, or by viewing the upper through our microscope or our source of bright light.

Best travel shoes overall

What makes it the best?

For excursions and longer trips, nothing can compete with the ultimate travel walking shoe, On Cloud 5. This is the pair that makes the happiest place on Earth double up on happiness because of how pleasurable it is on foot even after infinite hours! Considering that it’s a neutral shoe yet we never felt unstable whether on concrete or cobblestones is no less than amazing.

We didn’t have to overthink our decision if we would go sock or sockless every time we went out with Cloud 5: no blisters, regardless! Plus, no sweaty and stinky feet. Satisfyingly, our experience is coherent with the breathability test result we got in our lab. The shoe scored 5/5 on our smoke test, meaning the airflow is superb, perfect for day-long outings.

On our walks, we adored the shoe’s smooth heel-to-toe transition. Back in the lab, we tested for its flexibility using our digital force gauge, which indicated a low resistance (35% lower than average). This means it only took a small amount of force to bend the shoe, proving Cloud 5’s extreme flexibility. Carrying Cloud 5 on our feet and bags is also never a bother. Weighing the shoes, we discovered it’s only 7.5 oz (212g), 24% lighter than average.

The problem is, we found it to be really snug. We measured the forefoot’s widest part as 89.5 mm. This is not only 6.7% narrower than average, but actually the narrowest among all that we’ve tested. Therefore, we advise wide footers to skip On Cloud 5.

• Perfect for all-day wear
• Unbelievably lightweight
• Can do low-impact workouts
• Amazing in-shoe feel
• Very breathable
• Super easy on-off
• Great flexibility
• Regular laces are added
• Sustainable materials (44%)
• Not for wide feet
• Lacks durability
• Outsole catches pebbles

Travel shoes with the best comfort

After thoroughly testing the Allbirds Tree Runners on our feet and in the lab, we came to the conclusion that it is the most comfortable walking shoe for travel. We picked it for this category because its construction unlocks so much value for those who are on trips. Plus, it has an accommodating toebox and an adequate stack height that turns dashing from one destination to the next into an enjoyable experience.

As we put the Allbirds Tree Runners to work in rigorous walking sessions, we were amazed at how weightless it felt. True enough, when we measured its weight in the lab, it came in at 8.6 oz (245g), making it 23.1% lighter than the average walking shoe. In addition to this, the same construction provides travel-friendly features that make it perfect for trips: namely, its easy-to-pack nature and its slip-on build, which are both afforded by its upper.

Having the Allbirds Tree Runners on foot really allowed our toes to splay out nicely. In the lab, we measured the width of its upper (at its widest part) to be 99.8 mm which is a whole 3.9 mm wider than that of the average walking shoe. This translates to adequate room for medium to wide feet. Say goodbye to squished toes!

Another great thing about the Allbirds Tree Runners is the fact that it proved to be a reliable walking partner for us even during our longer sessions. To take a deeper look into this, we cut the shoe in half to measure its key dimensions. What stood out to us is that despite its lightweight build, it still has a good amount of foam underneath. Its heel stack height of 31.1 mm is even a bit larger than that of the average walking shoe (31.0 mm)!

While the Allbirds Tree Runners proves to be a great partner for traveling for regular feet, we don’t recommend the shoe for those who need that extra underfoot support from the get-go. The insole is removable, though!

• Extra comfortable interiors
• Equally cozy in 40 and 85ºF
• Can be worn without socks
• Lightweight and packable
• Flexible sole
• Removable insoles
• Easy to style
• Machine washable
• Sustainable design
• No half sizes
• Lacks arch support

Best travel shoes for all-day wear

Spending dozens of hours of travel wearing Hoka Transport gave us nothing but indulgence, which is primarily why it is the best for all-day wear! Pleasure and protection - these are what Transport granted our feet during our day outs. It’s generously cushioned and padded everywhere that our feet feel like standing on pillows even when we’re really out on a trip on concrete, cobblestone, or even trail.

The whole time we walked in Hoka Transport, our feet were cradled with softness with just a hint of firmness. Upon checking in our lab, we learned that our durometer reflected 21.9 HA, which is 23% softer foam than the average. We found this plushness absolutely pleasing for uninterrupted city cruising. 

Our constant strolls on hardened surfaces got us craving stable walking shoes. Thankfully, with Transport, we met our match. We investigated more in the lab and discovered that what aids its stability is its stiff construction. Our digital force gauge punched in a 30.4N resistance to bending, making it 45% stiffer than average. 

Even though we logged in lots of mileage in Hoka Transport, its outsole didn’t sustain any damage. Using our caliper and durometer, we found that the outsole is thicker by 2 mm and firmer by 13% than the average, implying that the outsole is indeed hardwearing.

However, our main concern is the ventilation. Transport only scored 2/5 on our smoke test since it allowed minimal smoke to pass through its upper. Because of this, we best recommend wearing Hoka Transport in colder months. 

• Unbelievably comfy
• Spacious toe box
• Adequately cushioned
• Superior traction
• Reliable outsole durability
• Easy to slip in and out
• True-to-size fit
• Easy to clean
• Sustainable
• Not great for warm weather
• Squeaky during break-in

Travel shoes with the best support

After testing and literally breaking down walking shoes, we established that the travel shoe with the best support is the On Cloudnova Form. Everything in this shoe just screams support – from the bottom to the sides of the foot – there isn’t anything to be insecure about! Plus, being out and about with Form all day is just straight-up awesome!

When we cruised towns with Form, it’s as if we forgot about the ground because of the substantial foam we felt beneath our feet, especially our heels. True enough, when we measured the stack heights using our caliper, it read 36.1 mm and 19.3 mm, which yielded a 16.8 mm drop. This is huge as it is, but relative to the average, this is 63.1% larger! 

We also measured how hard the midsole is and it turned out that it’s 35% firmer. During our tours, this translated to fantastic support that allowed us to last the whole day with no complaints! In terms of flimsiness, we experienced none. We discovered that this could be attributed to the stiffness of the shoe. Cloudnova Form withstood bending at 20.9N, making it 16% stiffer than average. Due to this, we are able to confidently shift laterally in the shoes. 

However, we don’t recommend traveling in Cloudnova Form during snowy seasons. We stuck it in our freezer for 20 minutes and it resulted in an even firmer (29.7% more) and stiffer (57% more) shoe. 

• Excellent for all-day wear
• Very stable and supportive
• Great in-shoe comfort
• Non-constricting toebox
• Reflective elements
• Sustainable materials
• Appealing design
• Lacks durability (especially the upper)
• A little heavier than average

Travel shoes with the best style

The walking shoe with the best design, in our opinion, is On Cloudnova. Outside, it is clean and refined, perfect for dressed-up and down fits. We love how Cloudnova combined casual and sporty into an insanely cool look. Inside, it feels sensational, making distant wanderings a divine experience.

We could walk on tours nonstop when we’re in Cloudnova, thanks to its footbed that didn’t cause us any fatigue. We investigated in the lab, and it turns out that at 29.9 HA, the midsole is almost as firm as the average: Cloudnova is only 4% firmer. This resulted in foam with balanced softness and firmness.

Walking in the airport or on the cobblestones is all the same to us with Cloudnova: no wobbly feel! We found in our flexibility test that it exerted a 29.9N force to counter the bending, making it 2.6% less stiff than average. We discovered that this, combined with the wide base, allowed for a steady shoe.

What we disliked was the weight that came with this stunner. At 10.7 oz (303g), we realized that it was 12.2% heavier than average. So if you prioritize lightness for your travels, we advise skipping On Cloudnova.

• Great travel shoe
• Attractive design
• Comfortable in-shoe feel
• Fits well straight from the box
• High quality
• 10% recycled materials
• Sole catches debris
• Mid-cut is not for everyone

Best waterproof travel shoes

While traveling, we require something that can get us through hours of leisure fun without obtaining bruises, blisters, and aches. We prefer walking shoes that can accompany us on vacays come rain or shine, with our feet still feeling at home. This is On Cloud 5 Waterproof but more, which is why we chose it as the best waterproof walking shoe for wandering. 

We roamed around streets in Cloud 5 Waterproof during inclement weather, and we confirmed that this walking shoe is completely impervious. Amazingly, our feet remained warm and dry on brisk and rainy trips. Backing up our conclusion is our smoke test, in which the shoe’s upper prohibited the smoke from breaking out, scoring 1/5 on breathability. We also brought out the big guns and viewed the upper through our microscope, showing an incredibly interlaced and thick fabric.

What kept us pain-free in a whole day of walking was the overall support we got from the shoes. We investigated more in the lab and found that the midsole has a 30.4 HA hardness, which is 10% firmer than average. Furthermore, we tested Cloud 5 Waterproof’s flexibility and our digital force gauge recorded 23.0N, 18% stiffer than average. The combination of both figures translated to more stable rides during our travels.

However, we found this shoe on the snug side. Accordingly, our caliper showed that the width of the widest part of the upper was 94.7 mm, sitting near the average at 95.9 mm. Therefore, we recommend Cloud 5 Waterproof best for people with medium to narrow feet.

• Super light for its kind
• Easy on-and-off
• Sustainable materials (40%)
• Catches rocks and debris
• Can get smelly

Best budget travel shoes

We have to admit, we were initially drawn to the Skechers Summits because of its affordability. We got it for only $65 when the average walker could go as high as $87. After testing it, we realized that it was more than just an attractive price tag. Its marshmallow midsole was just divine, even in the cold! So was its lightness. T’was the best walking shoe for travelers on a budget, indeed!

We assessed the softness of the midsole using our HA durometer in the lab. This digital device gave the Skechers Summits a rating of 21.1, making it significantly lower (therefore softer) than the 25.0 average. We loved how it made us feel so comfortable, especially during longer walks.

We have to point out that the midsole remained softer than average even during the cold. After putting it in the freezer for a time, we found that the midsole was still relatively marshmallow-like at 28.3 HA. The typical midsole would have stiffened up to 32.8 HA.

The shoe’s lightness was also something that we could not overlook. The Skechers Summits weighed only 6.95 ounces or 197 grams. The average weight of walking shoes was 9.59 ounces or 272 grams. The shaved weight allowed us to persist for much longer in our walks. 

It’s just a shame that this shoe wasn’t the best pick for summer excursions. Its upper just was not breathing as expected. It only got a 2 out of 5 in our ventilation tests.

• Like walking on soft clouds
• Super lightweight
• Easy to put on and off
• Very affordable
• Highly flexible
• Surprisingly durable upper
• Suitable for casual attire
• Lacks breathability
• Exposed foam wears out fast
• Memory Foam doesn't last long

How to buy the right travel walking shoe

Give your feet some love by asking yourself a few simple questions:

Is the shoe light enough?

Generally, a shoe is considered lightweight if it weighs below 250 grams per shoe (women) or below 350 grams per shoe (men).

But your perception of the shoe heaviness can differ from another person’s. That’s why you should pick the weight range that:

• won’t drag your foot down during long periods of wear
• won’t add too much weight to your luggage

Tip: Weigh the lightest of your sneakers and look for a shoe within that range or lighter.

Is it breathable enough?

Shoes with mesh and knit uppers are your best bet if you are looking for the following features:

• consistent airflow throughout the day: no sweaty or smelly feet
• little-to-no maintenance: easy to clean
• easily return to their normal shape after being squished in the luggage

Is the cushioning right?

Your shoe buddy should be able to maintain support for hours of walking.

This is one of the key criteria that we consider in our top 10 travel walking shoes. Going for either one of those will guarantee all-day support and cushioning.

Tips:  

• If you want extra underfoot plushness, go for shoes with a memory foam insert.
• If you tend to overpronate, get a shoe with a firmer midsole or added arch support.
• To add your own custom orthotics, select shoes with removable insoles.

What is the best closure type for you?

Along with the good old laces, you can consider shoes with a Velcro strap (these are not only made for kids!) or fun stretchy bungee laces. These types of closure allow to quickly release the fit and adjust the snugness once the foot starts to swell.

If you want to be able to slip the shoe on and off in an instant, especially on the transport, go for slip-on footwear or shoes with a collapsible heel, that can quickly go from a sneaker to a comfy slipper.

Is the outsole reliable?

Walking shoes typically don’t require as much traction as running shoes . That’s why most of them don’t even have a rubber outsole.

• If you are worried about grinding your soles to dust before the trip ends, look for shoes that have a full-length rubber outsole.
• If you are particular about staying sure-footed on wet smooth surfaces, consider slip-resistant options.

How much is the fish?

You are lucky as over 80% of our travel walking shoes fall into the budget-friendly range. You can easily get a pair under $100 or even as low as $20, if you check out the best deals .

Similar buying guides

10 Best Travel Shoes for Men & Women

The top travel shoes from brands like Vessi, Allbirds, and Tropicfeel, are lightweight, stylish, and as comfy as your favorite slippers.

It’s critical to choose the right pair of travel shoes, but it can be a challenge to find the absolute best pair for your needs. You want a pair of kicks that are not only comfortable, but functional, stylish and affordable to boot (pun intended).

I’ve traveled all over the world, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you need a good pair of shoes on your feet. I’ve tried dozens of different shoes, and the best ones manage to balance comfort, style, quality, and affordability.

For those traveling away from home, particularly on an airplane, luggage space is often very limited, making the right travel shoes that much more important. You need something versatile that you can wear in many situations, and if you plan on packing them, every ounce and inch counts.

I’ve listed the 10 best travel shoes I’ve found from years of real-world experience. I’ll break down the pros, cons, and features of each so you can find the best one for you.

• Our Top Picks
• Best Travel Shoes Overall: Vessi Everyday Sneakers
• Best Travel Shoes for Men: Tropicfeel Canyon
• Best Travel Shoes for Women: Allbirds Tree Dashers
• Best Walking Shoes for Travel: Kizik Athens
• Best Shoes for Travel in Europe: Wolf and Shepherd SupremeKnit Trainer
• Best Waterproof Travel Shoes: Vessi Stormburst
• Best Travel Running Shoe: Altra Torin 5 Luxe
• Best Leather Travel Shoe: Samuel Hubbard Flight
• Best Travel Boot: Amberjack Chelsea Boot
• Best Shoe for Air Travel: SUAVS Zilker

Vessi Everyday Sneakers : Best Travel Shoes Overall

The Vessi Everyday sneakers are the best walking shoes for travel if you’re looking for shoes that can do it all. These sneakers are super versatile and can easily be your go-to shoe for trips that involve a little bit of everything: hiking, walking, camping, you name it.

The Vessi Everyday sneakers are made from breathable knit fabric to keep you cool. One major bonus is that the material is 100% waterproof, too. I love that the waterproofing comes from the fabric itself instead of a coating, as waterproof coatings tend to wash off over the years.

The herringbone grip on the sole will keep you grounded and keep you from slipping on smooth surfaces like river rocks. The knit is also warm enough to keep your toes from getting too cold if you plan to be in cold conditions.

I love that Vessi sneakers come with antibacterial insoles. Insoles are a fantastic addition in general because they provide additional comfort. But these insoles also come with a built-in anti-odor layer to keep your shoes smelling fresh even after getting damp and sweaty on a long day out walking or exercising.

The insoles also mold and contour to your feet for added comfort, and you can remove them quickly and pop them in the washing machine when need be.

Vegan buyers will be glad to know that the Vessi Everyday Sneakers are made entirely from vegan materials. Vessi even uses water-based adhesives rather than chemicals, which is undoubtedly a plus where the environment is concerned.

These shoes stand out as an amazing, comfortable, and vegan option for the eco-minded buyer. If you’re expecting to meet wet conditions, you should have no problem parting with your dollars for these everyday sneakers.

Click here for my full Vessi shoes review .

• Pros & Cons
• Technical Specs
• Antibacterial insoles to reduce odor, sweat, and funk on hot days or after a long workout.
• Machine washable insoles are comfortable and lightweight .
• Ultra-lightweight soles with herringbone grip to keep you from slipping on smooth surfaces.
• 100% waterproof to wear in damp or wet conditions.
• Made from vegan materials; 100% animal-free

Tropicfeel Canyon : Best Travel Shoes for Men

The Tropicfeel Canyon are versatile shoes for the traveler on the go and come in a range of different stylish colors. These include black, grey, green, yellow, and blue options for both men and women.

While the sneakers aren’t entirely waterproof, they are quick-drying for use in wet conditions and are suitable for walking, hiking, and everyday use. If you do get your shoes wet, at least you know they won’t be wet for long.

The sleek design of the Tropicfeel Canyon Shoes makes these a fashionable choice for the day-to-day. Added features like quick-drying technology ramp up functionality, too. Essentially, you get all the technical benefits of hiking shoes on top of the comfort of sports shoes.

Made with sustainably sourced materials, each pair of Tropicfeel Canyon sneakers uses eight recycled plastic bottles in the production process. Sustainability is one of the brand’s leading design principles. So, these are a good choice for the eco-conscious traveler who wants to support brands aligned with their own principles of sustainability.

The shoes come with something called an Agion treatment. This is a life-long treatment that prevents odor and funk, keeping your shoes fresh after a long, sweaty day. This is an excellent feature if you prefer to wear your shoes without socks. Plus, the sneakers are slip-on to make getting ready for the day that much easier.

I love that the Tropicfeel Canyon shoes have sprint laces with a shoe-tightening mechanism. The mechanism will help wearers adjust the sizing accordingly to get the perfect fit and keep the shoes’ tongues from slipping out of place. The insoles also come with a layer of non-slip rubber, which should help give wearers decent grip on any slippery terrains.

• Quick-drying .
• Agion treatment for durability and to minimize odor from stinky feet.
• Made with sustainable materials and ethically conscious production methods.
• Lightweight for long-distance travel.
• Breathable to keep your feet cool on hot days .
• Shoe-tightening mechanism keeps the shoes’ tongues from slipping
• Not ideal for cold weather or damp conditions .
• May take a few wears to break the shoes in fully before they feel comfortable .
• Not 100% waterproof

Allbirds Tree Dashers : Best Travel Shoes for Women

The Allbirds Tree Dashers are technically running shoes. But, for women on the move, all of the features that make these kicks great for long-distance runs also transfer to sightseeing for long hours. The shoes were engineered for performance, but they also make stylish walking shoes for travel.

The Tree Dashers come with a removable sock liner contoured to your feet for your comfort. They also add flexibility and arch support to the already comfy shoes. The liners will keep your arches from aching after a long day and reduce your chances of suffering from lower back pain.

The natural materials are also cool and breathable, helping minimize odor, sweat, and funk after long hours of wear. The fact that these shoes are machine washable is also a big bonus if you don’t have the time to get them cleaned or scrub them yourself. You can simply chuck them in the wash on a short cycle, and you’re good to go.

When it comes to sustainability, Allbirds have made every effort to be eco-conscious in making the Tree Dashers. The uppers are made from FSC Certified material made from eucalyptus trees, and the midsoles are made with the world’s first carbon-negative EVA.

For those who aren’t familiar, FSC certification means that the trees used in the making of the materials come from a forest managed under strict environmental standards. This is to ensure the production doesn’t support any deforestation efforts that could harm the environment.

These shoes are also lightweight, which means they won’t put too much of a dent in your limited luggage space for overseas travel. In my opinion, the Tree Dashers rank highly in terms of ethical production, stylishness, and comfort. However, they are neither waterproof nor cheap.

• Breathable fabric helps to minimize odor .
• Dual-density midsoles.
• Durable and breathable material to keep your feet cool.
• Machine washable and easy to clean.
• Lightweight and flexible
• Decent grip but can be slippery on wet surfaces

Kizik Athens : Best Walking Shoes for Travel

If you’re going to be walking a lot on your travels, it’s absolutely essential to choose a shoe that’s up to the task. Nothing takes the fun out of a day of travel quite like sore, aching feet from bad shoes.

Walking shoes for travel need to be comfortable, lightweight, and breathable.

The Kizik Athens is a fantastic choice for a travel shoe if you know you’ll be on your feet a lot. The plush cushioning underfoot and breathable mesh upper make this a shoe that feels good for all-day wear.

These shoes are built on thick soles that provide a nice cushioned footbed to keep your feet comfortable even when you’re walking all day. Kizik uses their proprietary “Rabbit Foam” in the midsole, and it is seriously cushy.

The most innovative feature of this shoe is Kizik’s patented spring-back heel. These shoes are designed to let you step in without untying the laces. Instead of crushing the heel fabric (like would happen on most shoes), it springs back up, holding your foot snugly in place. It’s super convenient to just step in and not worry about bending over to tie laces or adjust the heel.

The uppers on these walking shoes are made with a one-piece knit fabric. It’s very breathable, comfy, and stylish. I also love that you get a wide range of fun colors to choose from. The only complaint with the style of these shoes is that the spring-back heel design looks a bit funky.

Overall, the Kizik Athens is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for the most comfortable walking shoes for travel.

• Lots of cushion for all-day comfort.
• Spring-back heel makes them easy to put on hands free.
• Short break-in period.
• Stylish casual shoes.
• Tons of colors to choose from
• The spring-back heel looks a bit odd.
• Durability could be better

Wolf and Shepherd SupremeKnit Trainer : Best Shoes for Travel in Europe

If you’re traveling to Europe, expect to spend a lot of time on your feet. Whether you’re going to Rome or London, you’ll probably be getting around a lot by train, bus, or just plain old walking, and cobblestone streets can really take a toll on your feet.

That means your shoe choice is more important than ever.

When I travel to Europe, I also generally try to avoid looking like an American tourist as much as possible. Can you wear your neon orange tennis shoes to travel in Europe? Sure, but expect to stand out like a sore thumb.

The Wolf and Shepherd SupremeKnit Trainer strikes a fantastic balance between all-day comfort and sophisticated, understated design.

These Portuguese-made sneakers are built with premium materials and excellent craftsmanship. The upper is made with 100% cotton melange with Italian Leather trim detailing. These shoes look and feel high-end, and with the understated color options, you’ll fit right in on European streets.

The cotton upper is very breathable and keeps your feet cool, but it isn’t great for wet, cold weather. It’s. For a winter in London, you’ll probably want a warmer shoe made with either water-resistant or quick-drying materials.

One thing to be aware of is that these shoes have a pretty narrow, pointed toebox. If you know you have wider feet or like a more roomy fit, I’d look for something different.

• Sophisticated, understated styling.
• Great all-day comfort.
• Ultra-breathable upper for warm weather.
• Premium materials including Italian full-grain leather trim.
• Works as a running shoe or everyday walking shoe
• Very expensive.
• Narrow fit.
• Not good for cold, wet weather

Vessi Stormburst : Best Waterproof Travel Shoes

If you’re heading to a cold, wet destination, it’s a good idea to get travel shoes that are waterproof and more protective than your typical sneakers.

The Vessi Stormburst is designed to merge the comfort and style of travel shoes with the protection and grip of lightweight hiking shoes. While I personally wouldn’t pick them as a dedicated trail shoe, they excel as travel walking shoes for wet climates or adventuring farther from the beaten path.

The highlight of these shoes is definitely the waterproof performance. They use Vessi’s Dyma-tex waterproof membrane, which does a fantastic job at keeping moisture out while still offering decent breathability.

These shoes also have a soft, sock-like ankle collar that extends the protection up your ankle. I’ve used other shoes with waterproof construction and a low-top design, and water always seemed to get in through the top. The ankle collar on the Vessi Stormburst makes these travel shoes much better at keeping your feet totally dry.

The Vessi Stormburst also comes with improved grip and support. I definitely wouldn’t choose them for trail use over hiking boots or trail running shoes, but the slightly more aggressive tread gives a confidence boost when you’re walking over wet, muddy, or icy streets.

These definitely are the best travel shoes if you’re going somewhere cold and wet and want to make sure your feet stay comfy and dry.

• Fully waterproof.
• Upgraded protection with toe bumpers and ankle collar.
• Great grip with the lugged rubber outsole.
• Very comfortable walking shoes
• Not everyone will love the ankle collar

Altra Torin 5 Luxe : Best Travel Running Shoe

Going on a run straight from the hotel is one of my favorite ways to experience a new city when I’m traveling.

While I love bringing my running shoes along on trips, sometimes it isn’t easy to make room in my bag for an extra pair of shoes. I personally prefer to bring only one pair of shoes whenever possible, so I like to look for running shoes that can double as my main kicks when traveling.

The Altra Torin 5 Luxe is based on Altra’s award-winning Torin road running shoe, but with a stylish and comfortable knit upper that doesn’t just look like a running shoe.

This shoe starts with Altra’s signature “FootShape” design, which features a wide toe box so your forefoot has plenty of room to spread out. Trust me when I say this makes a massive difference in terms of comfort compared to most running shoes. It also works great for keeping your feet comfy on long flights.

What makes this shoe stand out from other Altra running shoes is the unique 3D-knit upper. This upper is ultra-breathable and comfortable, making it perfect for long days while traveling.

The Torin Luxe is a capable running shoe that looks good enough to wear around town and is comfy enough to wear on long-haul international flights.

• Super comfortable with wide toe box.
• Versatile enough to use for running or everyday wear.
• More stylish than most running shoes.
• Lightweight
• Doesn’t have good arch support and heel support (if that’s something you need).
• Less durable than some running shoes

Samuel Hubbard Flight : Best Leather Travel Shoe

For me, there’s nothing quite like a high-quality leather shoe. Leather is durable, water-resistant, and comfortable, and it has a timeless style that’s hard to beat. I love that leather shoes can look better over time as you wear them in.

The Samuel Hubbard Flight combines premium leather craftsmanship with a simple sneaker style. It’s a super versatile shoe that’s easy to dress up for a night out or dress down for just hanging out. You can wear it with almost anything.

I personally love shoes that can fill multiple uses, and these stylish shoes hit a great sweet spot for me between dress shoes and athletic shoes.

These are also very comfortable shoes, with a soft sock-like liner, a lightweight and flexible sole, and nice heel cushioning. This is great for travel when you may be on your feet all day, and your shoes can be make or break when it comes to enjoying your trip.

One thing to be aware of is that leather does require more care than synthetic materials.

These are definitely the best travel shoes for anyone who likes high-quality leather craftsmanship in a casual sneaker style.

• Timeless casual style.
• Premium leather materials
• Less breathable than fabric shoes.
• Requires more care

Amberjack Chelsea Boot : Best Travel Boot

There’s nothing quite like a high-quality dress boot for helping you look and feel your best. The Amberjack Chelsea is a modern take on the classic Chelsea design, with durable materials, functional design, heat-moldable arch support, and fantastic comfort.

The outside of these shoes is made with a durable, soft, and water-resistant Italian suede leather that is designed to perform well and look better in all conditions. These aren’t fully waterproof boots, but they do a great job at repelling weather from unexpected downpours or walking through wet streets. I personally love suede for shoes because it’s easier to keep looking good over time and doesn’t show scuffs and scratches.

Inside, your feet will be wrapped in a super soft sheepskin lining. The lining feels really comfortable and it’s been laser perforated to increase breathability. While that sounds great in theory, I still found these boots to be much less breathable than most (which is to be expected with leather boots). I think these are great for cool, wet weather, but I’d probably look for something else for warmer months.

These are definitely more dress shoes than hiking boots, so if you’ll be heading off the beaten path on your adventures, you’ll want something a bit more rugged.

• Water-resistant.
• Timeless style.
• Made in Portugal with premium Italian leather.
• Comfortable
• Not the best for warmer weather

SUAVS Zilker : Best Shoe for Air Travel

I don’t know about you, but one of the hardest things while flying is keeping my feet comfortable. Walking and standing on concrete floors in airports makes them sore, and then sitting for hours in an airplane seat makes them swell up uncomfortably.

I’ve found that the right shoes can make a huge difference in my comfort during air travel. I need something that is soft, roomy, and breathable, while providing good cushion for those hours standing in lines.

The SUAVS The Zilker is a fantastic shoe that’s designed specifically with travel in mind. It is super lightweight, flexible, and very comfy—perfect for long days spent traveling.

The highlight of this shoe for me is the one-piece knit upper. It is made from a super breathable material that has a bit of stretch, making it very comfortable. Since it doesn’t have any stitching, I’ve found that I’m much less likely to get blisters.

The breathability means your feet don’t get sweaty after wearing them for hours. Bonus? These are machine washable, so it’s easy to get rid of any

Even though they have laces, these shoes are also designed to be super easy to slip on and off. This saves a lot of hassle when you have to take off your shoes going through airport security.

One thing these shoes don’t have is substantial arch support. That’s a plus for me personally, but some people may prefer having more support underfoot.

• Super lightweight.
• Very affordable.
• Comfy one-piece knit upper
• Less supportive than other shoes

Best Way to Pack Shoes for Travel

Shoes are odd-shaped objects, and packing them in your suitcase can be a challenge. Here are some of my top tips

• Stuff socks or other small items inside your shoes. This serves two purposes: it saves space, and it keeps your shoes from being crushed out of shape.
• Use a dedicated shoe bag. A simple shoe bag keeps your shoes separate from your packed clothing and helps with organization.
• Pack the soles toward the bottom or side of your suitcase. I’ve found this is the most space-efficient method.
• Maybe only bring one pair of shoes. Do you really need multiple pairs? Whenever possible I like to have one versatile pair that I can wear for everything on my trip. I’ll sometimes toss a pair of flip flops in if I really want options (and those take up much less space).

How to Choose the Best Travel Shoes

There is a wide range of footwear that can fall into the category of travel shoes, from a sturdy hiking shoe to stylish sneakers to flip flops. Picking new shoes for travel is highly personal, and the wrong shoes can honestly ruin a trip (seriously).

The best travel shoes should hit a balance of style, comfort, and functionality, and it’s going to be different for everyone. Here is a guide for the top things you need to consider as you shop.

Comfortability is without a doubt one of the most important decision-making factors when it comes to buying the best sneakers or shoes for travel. Look out for molded insoles that will give you added arch support, as well as the right incline for you. Some people prefer a flat-form design, while others like a raised heel with a sloping sole.

One thing people often forget to look up is the narrowness of the fit. If you have pretty broad or wide feet, be sure to check if the shoes you’re planning on buying have a narrow fit. Getting too narrow a shoe can lead to foot pain and back pain. It’s always a good idea to compare the measurements of the shoes with your own favorite pair before making any decisions on which shoes to buy.

My biggest recommendation is to try shoes on in person whenever possible. Most good online sellers offer a generous return policy so you can try the fit before you’re committed to keeping them forever.

Sure, you can travel with a big pair of hiking boots, and they’ll do a great job of supporting and cushioning your feet, but do you want to look like that much of a tourist?

Style is a matter of personal taste, naturally, but there’s a lot to consider when buying the right style of travel shoes for your needs. If you go for a sneaker design, you may be short-changing yourself on aspects of functionality, as these styles tend to be more focused on aesthetic value than a particular function or need. That said, every pair of shoes is entirely different, so read the product descriptions carefully before you make any purchase decisions.

Cross-training and running shoes are generally good styles to check out, as these shoes focus on comfort, performance, breathability, and speed. You may not be going for any long runs when you’re traveling, but comfort is a bonus no matter what the situation is. Running shoes also tend to come with a host of incredible features (more on that later), making them ideal for a good pair of travel shoes.

Color is also a factor when choosing the right style for you, particularly if you’re going for fashion. If you don’t like the particular style you’re looking at, check if the brand offers the same shoe in different colors.

As mentioned before, travelers tend to have limited luggage space and can’t afford to pack three or four pairs of shoes for different scenarios. This is especially true if you’re going backcountry hiking, camping, or backpacking when every ounce is more weight on your back. It’s important to figure out exactly how much room you have and consider if your travel shoes of choice are too bulky to make the cut.

Check the product descriptions for the weight in ounces, or look out for shoes that advertise themselves as lightweight. Some customer reviews also reveal how much the shoes weigh if the product descriptions leave it out.

That said, if you’re someone who prefers a thick-soled pair of shoes, you may be willing to go more on the heavy or bulky side with the shoes you buy.

Added Features

Never buy a pair of shoes without reading up on its list of features. You may be distracted by the look of a shoe and the price, but remember that it’s all the minor features that distinguish an acceptable pair of shoes from a fantastic pair. The more useful the features are to you, the more willing you’ll be to part with your precious dollars.

If you’re planning on using your travel shoes in wet or rainy conditions, be sure to check if the material they’re made from is waterproof. 100% waterproof is always much appreciated, but may be hard to find if you have a restricted budget.

As mentioned, waterproof coatings tend to rub off over the years. So, look out for shoes that are made from waterproof fabrics instead. These will be waterproof for longer and give you more bang for your buck.

If you can’t afford waterproof kicks, try going for ones made with quick-drying fabric. These will get wet, of course, but at least you know they have the technology to help them dry faster. Another important factor for wet conditions is the grip on the soles. You want to ensure that the soles aren’t going to be slippery and have a decent grip on smooth terrains.

Regardless of the weather conditions you’re planning to be in, quick-drying fabrics are a good choice as they keep your shoes from getting clogged with sweat and becoming smelly all the time. The more breathable the fabric, the better. Remember, you’ll be wearing your travel shoes for hours on end, so breathability is critical. This is especially the case if you’re prone to stinky feet.

Travel shoe brands often distinguish themselves from the competition using innovative technology in the mid or insoles. Some soles are made of a memory foam material that molds to your foot with extra comfort, which is a huge help if you struggle with painful arches or bad ankle support. If this sounds like you, look out for brace support in the shoe design, too, as this can help with back pain and foot pain.

Some insoles are removable; others aren’t. You’ll want to take a careful look at the design of the insoles, their thickness, and whether or not they’re machine washable. The care guidelines on travel shoes can sometimes be a dealbreaker for buyers. So, read up on if you need to handwash your kicks of choice and how hard they are to maintain over the years.

Finally, some travel shoes come with antimicrobial technology in the soles to minimize odor and funk. If you’re planning on using the sneakers for training and walking purposes, this is a good feature to look out for. If you’re wearing the shoes every day, you don’t want the extra hassle of having smelly shoes to contend with.

Versatility

In conjunction with the issue of weight and space, versatility is an important factor to consider before buying any pair of good travel shoes. Why pack separate running, hiking, and water shoes when you can buy one pair of sneakers that suits multiple situations? This is why cross-training and running shoes are often the wisest picks for travelers; you can easily transition between activities in them.

The style also has a lot to do with the versatility of travel shoes. Some travelers want their shoes to be sporty and functional but not so unattractive that they’d look out of place wearing them in a coffee shop or a museum. If the style is a big factor for you, you’ll want to make sure the shoes you buy are attractive to your eyes but that they also meet all of your requirements for functionality.

Ethical and Socially Conscious Production

In this day and age, one of the common distinguishing factors between shoe brands is their set of design principles. Buyers don’t just want functional and comfortable shoes; they want to support a brand that aligns with their own values.

If it’s important to you that your gear was made in a social and ethically conscious manner, dive into the finer details of the makeup of your prospective travel shoes. You can check if they’re made from renewable materials or recycled fabrics and do some research on whether or not the fabrics used are certified by an environmental board of some kind.

You can also research the company itself and how the brand incorporates sustainability into its shoe designs and production process. Many buyers want to know that the brand they are supporting uses ethical design practices with a focus on socially conscious standards in the workforce. If this sounds like you, you can read up on the brand’s mission statement and find out if the brand is ethical enough for your tastes.

Final Thoughts on the Best Shoes for Travel

There are countless travel shoes, running shoes, and everyday sneakers out there for you to choose from. If you’re looking for a comfortable pair of high-quality travel shoes to take with you on vacation, you’re bound to find something to suit your taste on this list. We’ve covered multiple different styles of shoes for different purposes, which should help you find the best shoes for travel for your specific set of needs.

Next time you’re unsure of how to choose the right pair, you can turn to this detailed buying to help you make savvy, informed, and wise buying decisions. If you keep all the buying points in mind as you browse your different options, you’ll have no problem finding a quality pair of travel shoes for your next adventure.

If you need more inspiration on travel, travel gear, and choosing the right clothing and accessories for your next trip, you can read up on some of our useful posts below. Click on the links below for access to more helpful resources like this post.

Travel Shoes FAQs

Which shoes are best for traveling.

For traveling, pick comfortable shoes that are designed for walking.

What is the best shoe to wear on an airplane?

It’s best to wear comfortable sneakers on a plane flight.

What shoes should I pack for vacation?

You should pack comfortable walking shoes for vacation, plus flip flops or sandals if you’re going somewhere warm.

What should I wear on my feet when flying?

It’s best to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes on a flight. Compression socks can also help prevent swelling feet.

How many shoes should I bring when Travelling?

At most, you should bring three pairs of shoes while traveling.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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We Tested 90 Pairs of Walking Shoes for Men—These 9 Can Go the Distance

From maximal cushioning to solid support, these expert-tested walking shoes have all foot types covered

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• We Also Tested
• What to Look For
• How We Selected and Tested

Our Experts

Why trust verywell fit.

Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

A good walking sneaker can make all the difference in helping keep you and your feet protected during a stroll, hike, or fitness walk. According to Dr. Miguel Cunha , a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City, wearing the wrong shoes when walking can lead to issues like early-onset arthritis, runner’s knee , and plantar fasciitis, which is a common cause of heel discomfort. When choosing a good pair of walking shoes, Dr. Karena Wu , a physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in New York City and India, says that support, cushioning, and proper fit are three crucial features to look for .

To choose the best walking shoes for men, we diligently researched and tested 90 pairs in The Verywell Testing Lab and in our daily lives, focusing on factors like fit, cushioning, comfort, responsiveness, stability, overall quality , and more. We also had a walking coach, ACE-certified group fitness instructor, and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board review this story for accuracy, including how to find comfortable, well-fitting walking shoes when shopping online.

Best Overall

On running men's cloud 5.

Speed lacing system

Good shock absorption

Waterproof option available

Light colors get dirty quickly

Sizes: Men’s 7-14 (standard width) | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Drop: 7 millimeters | Closure: Laces | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber and foam outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who walk for fitness and need a balance of cushioning and responsiveness.

Why We Love Them

Designed for supportive landings, On Running's Cloud 5 Shoe easily delivers and is our top pick for the best men's walking shoe on the market. Whether you walk for fitness or need to be on your feet for a long time, this shoe is very comfortable, thanks to its breathable, antimicrobial mesh upper that helps keep feet cool. We also love its flexible, supportive foam cushioning , which keeps feet fresh for hours of standing. When we tested these shoes, we especially appreciated the speed lacing system, which allowed us to quickly slip our feet in and out of the shoes. We also love how well they fit us right out of the box.

The heel is molded for a snug, secure fit , and the foam cushioning provides comfortable landings without adding weight to the shoe, which is especially great for those with plantar fasciitis. The outsole has unique pods that compress with each step to help absorb impact. During our test walks, we found the shoe had just the right amount of responsiveness to help propel us forward, and we felt fully supported the entire time. A set of traditional laces is included in the box if you're not a fan of speed laces, and the shoes also come in a waterproof version.

Potential Flaws

• During testing, we noticed that the light-colored shoes got dirty quickly. While this didn't bother us, it's something to keep in mind if you hate cleaning your shoes after wear.

Most Valuable Insight

"I feel like the curves on the shoe's sole really help make it 'springy.' When I first got them, I wore them around my apartment, and I really felt like they propelled me to move. I was much faster than in some other shoes I have worn in the past." — Brian Sanford, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Summer

Kane revive active recovery shoe.

Good for varied terrain

Easy to clean

Offers less cushioning than some

Fit is less customizable

Sizes: Men’s 3-16 (standard width) | Weight: Not listed | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Foam | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for walkers who need a supportive, breathable, and quick-drying shoe for strolls along the beach or other warm-weather locations.

When the weather turns hot, an easy-to-wear, breathable shoe is just what you need. We recommend Kane’s Revive Shoe , a recovery shoe with a perforated foam upper for breathability and an easy slip-on style. We appreciate the ample room in the forefoot of these shoes, which gives our toes plenty of room to spread out. Made with a comfortable, renewable sugar-cane foam, these shoes help keep your heels and toes protected from blisters and chafing.

When walking in these shoes, we were impressed by their ability to seamlessly transition between surfaces—from concrete to sand and grass. Thanks to the oversized channels on the outsoles, they offer great traction, which is especially helpful when navigating wet or uneven surfaces. During testing, we noted that the built-in arch support had just the right amount of cushioning, and the insole molded nicely to our feet. These shoes are easy to clean and will keep your feet cool and sweat-free.

• Since these shoes are designed for casual wear instead of long walks, they don't have as much cushioning as other options on our list.
• These shoes don't have laces, so there's no way to adjust their fit beyond ordering the right size.

"The shoes felt good and fit well when I first put them on. It felt as if I was walking on air because these shoes are light and offer a lot of airflow with the cutouts on the top. This kept my feet cool and kept me from overheating or getting sweaty." — Craigory Christopher, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Trails

Teva canyonview.

Extra heel cushioning

Anti-odor treatment

Only comes in earth-tone colors

Sizes: Men’s 7-14 (standard width) | Weight: Not listed | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Leather and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for wearers who need a rugged, waterproof shoe for their walk to work or through the wilderness.

Teva's Canyonview Hiking Shoes are our top choice for trails if you need a shoe that can handle light hiking, camping, and more. We also found them versatile and stylish enough to wear for all-day errands and walking around town. The leather and mesh upper is comfortable and breathable, and we especially like that it's also waterproof . The shoes are very durable, thanks to the abrasion-resistant rubber outsole that's grooved for good traction. Plus, they feature an anti-odor treatment so your feet always feel fresh, even after all-day wear.

When we tested these shoes, we felt the light foam midsole provided solid cushioning without adding weight. We especially appreciate the extra cushioning under the heel, which gave us a nice springy feel with each step. This feature helped propel us forward during hikes and walks. Plus, the curve of the outsole helped make transitions easy and seamless. We think the Canyonview shoes offer great value for their versatility.

• These shoes only come in dark, earth-tone colors, which may not be ideal for some.

"I appreciated the high-quality leather touches and the firm rubber soles. These definitely feel and look like top-of-the-line hiking shoes while also being aesthetically pleasing enough to wear on walks without looking like I'm taking a mountain expedition through town." — Jess Hoffert, Verywell Fit product tester

Best Slides

Oofos ooahh slide.

APMA Seal of Acceptance

Good arch support

Machine-washable

Not very breathable

Tip of slide may catch on ground while walking

Sizes: Men’s 3-14 (standard width) | Weight: 4.6 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slide-in | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Foam | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Best for wearers who need extra support when walking around the house or who want easy-to-clean sandals for warmer weather.

Oofos' Ooahh Slide Sandals are our top choice for quality men's slides because they offer solid support and exceptional durability . These shoes have cushioned, supportive footbeds and have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means they've been recognized for promoting foot health. When wearing these slides, we especially appreciated the excellent arch support and slightly elevated heel that takes the pressure off our feet during longer strolls.

During testing, we noticed that these slides were moisture- and odor-resistant , and they're easy to clean by simply hosing them off or tossing them in the washing machine. We felt they absorbed impact well and were springy enough to help propel us forward. We also like how the molded footbed cradles our feet and promotes proper alignment. Thanks to the grooved outsole, they also have great traction, which helps us feel comfortable whether we wear them indoors or outside on various terrains. These high-quality slides are available in multiple colors.

• Even though we tested the correct size, the tip of the slide stuck out enough to sometimes catch under our feet while walking.
• When wearing these slides, our feet felt sweaty during longer walks and in warmer weather. These slides may not be the best option for those who get sweaty easily.

"The fit was really great at the onset, as expected. The heel was elevated, and it provided really substantial arch support. I wear a 9½, and I do not think I would size down or up. It was true to size." — Greg Dupree, Verywell Fit product tester

Best Slip-On

Adidas lite racer adapt 7.0.

Plush cushioning

Budget-friendly

Lots of color options

May run small

Sizes: Men’s 6.5-14 (standard width) | Weight: 10 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Slip-on | Cushioning: Plush | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Best for wearers needing a comfortable, budget-friendly shoe that's easy to slip on for light, daily activities.

There are many slip-on walking shoes on the market, but Adidas's Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 tops our list as the best because it's very cushioned, versatile, and budget-friendly. During testing, we wore these shoes around town, to the gym, and to yoga class because they were so easy to slip on and off . We even felt agile enough to run in these shoes comfortably.

We also noticed that the upper is sock-like and fits snugly around our midfoot and heel while still leaving plenty of room in the toe box. Our feet felt completely cushioned and supported , which kept us comfortable all day. Even during longer walks, we didn't experience any knee or ankle pain, and we felt like we could easily wear these shoes on more intense fitness walks. These shoes are available in many color options and look stylish enough to wear while running errands.

• While our typical size fit us well, some wearers noted that the shoes felt too small and they had to size up.

"The heel is very stable. It really feels like a normal tennis shoe, and you aren't able to tell that it isn't unless you look closely at the laces." — Smith Carpenter, Verywell Fit product tester

Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandal

Very durable

Great traction

Lacks lateral support

May not have enough cushioning for some

Sizes: Men’s 7-14 (standard width) | Weight: 12.9 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Closure: Slip-on with toggle laces | Cushioning: Light to moderate | Materials: Mesh and knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for wearers wanting a stylish, breathable shoe that's easy to adjust.

For a stylish, versatile pair of outdoor walking shoes, we recommend Hoka's Hopara 2 Shoes . We loved how great these shoes looked and felt during testing, plus we also enjoyed the compliments we received while wearing them. These shoes performed great for casual daily wear, including a relaxing bike ride and attending an outdoor concert. We noticed that the cushioning felt comfortable, and the heel was supportive and stable. We also appreciate that they feel very durable and high-quality .

We found these shoes fit true to size, and the toggle lacing and hook-and-loop heel strap helped us customize the fit further. The grippy rubber outsole provided solid traction, and we felt comfortable tackling various terrains, including uneven ground. Thanks to the mesh upper, this shoe offers plenty of airflow and water drainage, as well as protection from rocks or debris if you happen to be out in more rugged terrain.

• Due to the open mesh upper, these shoes don't have a lot of lateral, or outer edge, support.
• The cushioning in these shoes is light to moderate and may not be enough for some wearers, especially those who plan on performing more intense activities.

"These look great and are very unique. They look stylish with a pair of shorts and really helped finish off a summer casual look." — Ryan Sisson, Verywell Fit product tester

Bonus Favorites

Although we didn't test the following walking shoes for men, we still think they're a solid buy after thorough research. Each pair has features, materials, and prices comparable to the shoes we personally tested.

Best for Wide Feet

New balance fuelcell walker elite.

Three widths available

Promotes natural gait pattern

Pricier than other options

Sizes: Men’s 7-16 (standard, wide, extra-wide widths) | Weight: 11.1 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole and outsole

Best for wearers who need a high-quality shoe that offers moderate support in a range of widths.

Finding supportive shoes that fit well can be challenging if you have wider feet. We love New Balance's FuelCell Walker Elite Shoes because they're specifically designed for walking and available in standard, wide, and extra-wide widths . The foam sole is soft and comfy, but still firm enough to provide plenty of stability. There's also a stabilizing plate that runs through the middle of the sole, which provides a solid platform to push off of with each step.

Like many of New Balance's shoes , these shoes have the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health. The cushioning offers just enough propulsion to help push you forward without feeling like you're bouncing. The sole is wide, particularly at the heel, which helps with balance and stability . We also appreciate the outsole pattern, which is designed to help guide your foot through a natural gait pattern.

• These shoes are one of the pricier pairs on our list. However, we feel that the shoe's quality and features align with its value.

Best for Distance

Brooks glycerin gts 21.

Helps maintain proper alignment

May be too stiff for some

Sizes: Men’s 7-15 (medium and wide widths) | Weight: 10.5 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Closure: Laces | Cushioning: Plush | Materials: Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole and outsole

Best for wearers who need maximum cushioning for long walks or who are on their feet all day.

While feeling comfortable in your shoes is important for walks of any length, it’s especially crucial when you’re planning on walking for longer distances. Brooks's Glycerin GTS 21s have thick, soft cushioning that makes them easy to wear on longer walks. Their combination of softness and stability works especially well for anyone prone to hip or knee pain . Plus, these shoes provide lateral support to help limit excess motion and keep you in proper alignment.

Even though these shoes have plush cushioning and feature the soft padding you can only find in Brooks shoes , they’re still springy and stable . These shoes have a built-in bootie that's stretchy and surrounds your foot for a snug fit. They keep your ankles locked in during walks and work great on all terrain—especially with the broad outsole that provides solid balance and traction . Plus, the knit upper is breathable, so they work great for anyone who tends to get sweaty easily.

• These are one of the most expensive pairs of shoes on our list. However, we think the features align with its value, especially the plush cushioning and overall quality.
• Some wearers note that the upper on the GTS 21 is stiff and rigid, which may not work well for everyone.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Brooks addiction walker 2 shoe.

Built-in stability system

Heavier than other options

Sizes: Men’s 7-15 (narrow, standard, wide, extra-wide widths) | Weight: 14.5 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Closure: Laces | Cushioning: Moderate | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole

Best for wearers who need solid support for common foot conditions, like flat feet or plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis may make walking around feel difficult, uncomfortable, or painful. Brooks's Addiction Walker 2 Shoes can help with their solid arch support and built-in stability system, which helps prevent the foot from rolling inward. These APMA-approved shoes also feature moderate cushioning that is balanced across your whole foot and a mesh inner liner to promote airflow so your feet stay comfortable, even during longer walks.

The leather upper is sturdy enough to provide some lateral support. We also like that the shoes are stylish enough for work, errands, casual wear, and more. The outsoles are anti-slip and abrasion-resistant, so you can feel confident wearing these shoes on any surface—dry or wet.

• These shoes are heavier compared to most other shoes on our list.
• The leather upper is durable but not very breathable, so these shoes may not be ideal for anyone who gets sweaty easily.

We Also Tested These Walking Shoes for Men

We tested over 90 walking and hiking shoes, but only nine impressed us enough to make this list. While we liked some of these pairs' features, they didn't stack up against our other favorites:

• Zamberlan’s 215 Salathe GTX RR is comfortable and easy to slide on and off. However, its bulkier construction is best suited for hiking, and we didn’t find it breathable enough for longer walks. 
• Asics’ Metaspeed Sky+ fits great and offers excellent cushioning. But the pair lacked stability on test walks and didn't offer enough support, especially for walkers with bad knees. 
• Hoka’s Solimar kept our feet locked in place and worked well to accommodate feet that overpronate. However, we found them to be a bit narrow, and their lack of cushioning makes them feel more like a Converse than a plush walking shoe. 

What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Shoes for Men

• Foot Type: Cunha recommends paying attention to the wear pattern of your shoes, which can indicate your foot type and help determine which walking shoes are best for you . When your shoes show wear on the top outer edge, you’re likely a supinator or underpronator. Walkers who underpronate should look for shoes with more cushioning and shock absorption. When your shoes are evenly worn throughout, this implies even weight distribution across your foot. In this case, you'll want shoes with moderate stability that provide both cushioning and support. Lastly, if your shoes show wear on the top inner edge, this is a sign of overpronation , and you will benefit from motion-control shoes or high-stability sneakers that promote better alignment as you walk.
• Fit: When buying shoes, try them on at the end of the day for a more accurate fit, says Cunha. Your feet swell throughout the day, so finding the right fit at the end of the day will ensure comfort no matter how long you’re on your feet.
• Flex Point: Cunha says that for optimal comfort, the shoe's flex point should match the bending point of your foot—at the ball. When it doesn’t align correctly or when a shoe bends at the arch instead, it can lead to arch pain or plantar fasciitis. To check the flex point of your shoe, hold it by the heel and press the toe of the shoe onto the ground. The point where the shoe bends and creases is the flex point.
• Material: It is advisable to find a shoe that offers as much protection and durability as possible without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. A breathable shoe is optimal, especially if you plan on standing or walking for a prolonged period, says Cunha.
• Arch Support: Cunha recommends finding shoes with an arch incorporated into its design to provide support, shock absorption, and maximum comfort. A thin, flat sole provides no support and can lead to heel pain, particularly plantar fasciitis, which can cause knee and back pain , says Cunha. 

How We Tested and Selected the Best Walking Shoes for Men

To find the best walking shoes for men on the market, we sought guidance from two podiatrists and one physical therapist to gain insights into foot types and what features to look for when shopping. We then researched dozens of pairs of walking shoes, considering details like cushioning, stability, durability, and more. Then, we tested 90 pairs of walking shoes for men in The Verywell Testing Lab and in our daily lives. When we test walking shoes, we evaluate each pair based on these key criteria.

• Fit: When we first try on the shoes, we note if they fit true to size and if there is a thumb's width of space between our toe and the end of the shoe. We ask ourselves if the shoe feels too loose or too tight. We also note if the toe box is wide enough to wiggle our toes and if our feet slide around or stay put. We prioritize shoes that fit our size as expected.
• Stability: When we walk in each pair of shoes, we note whether our ankles and knees feel supported and stable. We consider whether the shoes provide enough shock support and balance with each step. We also note whether the stability of the shoe changes with different surfaces, such as grass, gravel, or concrete.
• Responsiveness: After wearing the shoes for at least three hours, we evaluate how well they help propel us forward with each step. We note how springy and bouncy the shoe feels and whether the curve of the sole helps with propulsion. After wearing the shoes for several hours, we note whether our legs feel fresh or heavy and fatigued.
• Cushioning: To evaluate the cushioning, we note whether it feels pillowy or firm, how well it absorbs shock, whether we feel pain or pressure points anywhere, and whether the cushioning is evenly distributed throughout the shoe. After the testing period, we evaluate if the cushioning has held up over time, including whether it has deflated or compressed.
• Comfort: The first time we put the shoes on, we ask ourselves: Do they feel light or heavy? Do the shoes feel breathable? Is the upper fabric soft and flexible or stiff and rigid? Are there any seams or stitching that chafe or irritate? After our test walks, we note whether our feet stay comfortable or get sweaty and overheated. We also consider whether we develop any blisters or hot spots.
• Quality: To evaluate quality, we note whether the shoes arrive in good condition and whether the materials are durable and high-quality. We also perform a bend test to determine whether the shoes bend where they should—under the ball of the foot. At the end of the testing period, we note any wear and tear on the shoes.
• Value: To determine the value of each pair of walking shoes, we wait until the end of the testing period, after evaluating all other criteria, to check the price. Based on the shoes' performance, we note if they are fairly priced or if we would only buy them on sale. We also consider whether we would recommend the shoes to friends and family.

We consulted experts at every stage of testing and researching for this article. They provided insights into what key features to look for when choosing the best walking shoes for men and guidance on our testing process.

• Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City
• Saylee Tulpule , DPM, podiatrist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center
• Karena Wu, DPT, physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to break in new shoes.

A good shoe shouldn’t require much breaking in and should be fairly comfortable from the start, says Wu. If that’s not the case, though, she says you may want to try wearing them around the house, gradually increasing how long you wear them, and wearing them with thicker socks . Another option is to use a hair dryer to warm up the shoes for two to three minutes to help them expand, recommends Cunha.

Are running shoes good for walking?

Yes, some running shoes can be used for walking, but there are some key differences between them. Running shoes are typically lighter, more breathable, and have more cushioning. Most walking shoes are generally more flexible at the forefoot, allowing walkers to have a better range of motion while pushing off with their toes.

How long do walking shoes last?

According to Tulpule, you should generally replace your walking shoes after 300 to 400 miles or six to eight months, whichever comes first. Even if walking shoes appear to be in good condition, they should be replaced frequently.

How much does a quality pair of walking shoes for men cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a quality pair of walking shoes. More budget-friendly options may not have enough support and cushioning to keep you feeling light on your feet all day long. More expensive pairs may have fashion-forward features or additional technology that doesn't actually enhance the shoes' comfort.

Jack Byram is a freelance writer who covers health and wellness. As an exercise enthusiast, Jack constantly tries new sneakers to help him perform his best while keeping his feet feeling their best. He also walks extensively, so he knows how valuable a proper pair of walking shoes can be when strolling on unforgiving pavement.

Additional reporting contributed by Michelle Parente

Michelle Parente, CYT , is a certified yoga sculpt teacher and experienced fitness writer passionate about making reliable product recommendations. She aims to walk 10,000 steps per day so she knows the importance of investing in a quality pair of walking shoes.

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Tour Guides Reveal the 10 Most Comfortable Walking Shoes of All Time — Starting at $62

These supportive kicks keep their feet pain-free after walking 20,000-plus steps a day.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

At 21,500 square feet, the spa at Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz is one of the largest in Switzerland. But at the moment, I only care about my two feet, which I’m treating to a reflexology treatment. The 50-minute foot massage costs more than a pair of new shoes, but it will be worth it. I spent yesterday pounding the pavement (and cobblestones) in this posh resort town before hiking in the surrounding mountains, so to simply put it: my feet are beat . When I complained to a tour guide, she merely laughed and said, “Welcome to my life.”

With a job that requires logging at least 10,000 steps per day, tour guides can’t afford to have foot pain. That’s why I always sneak a peek at their shoes. Much like how flight attendants know which carry-on luggage is the best , tour guides, by default, are experts in smart footwear. So if you need travel-friendly sneakers that are comfortable, durable, and cute to wear after the sightseeing tour is over, look no further because I polled several tour guides to get their top picks for the 10 best walking shoes. Luckily for us (and our wallets), they also shop at Amazon and Zappos and love brands like New Balance, Allbirds, and Merrell. Keep scrolling to refresh your closet before your next walking tour — after all, the last person a tour guide wants on one of is someone complaining about blisters. 

Asics Men's GT-1000 11 Running Shoes

From a doughnut discovery tour to a true crime tour, you have dozens of choices when it comes to Brisbane tours . But for Guy Watson, who leads Urban Tours , highlighting the River City’s hidden gems, there’s only one choice when it comes to shoes: the Asics GT-1000s. “They’re well-cushioned, which helps me keep up with an energetic pace,” said Watson, whose two-hour tours require walking 8.6 miles. Over at Amazon, where they're on sale, the shoes have earned rave reviews from travelers. One said that "they're the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned" and "hold up great" when they walk "30,000 to 40,000 steps" at theme parks. 

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoes

During Brisbane’s wet season, or when he’s in the bush, Watson is also a fan of the Merrell Moab 3s. “They provide the support and grip to navigate safely, and I don’t have to worry about slipping on tricky surfaces,” he told me. I personally wear the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoes , and  I love them so much that I don’t even switch into sandals when I’m done with the hike for the drive home. I’ve also tried $400 hiking boots, but these are by far the most comfortable. 

Oboz Women's Sawtooth X Low Hiking Shoes

As fate would have it, my 8th-grade social studies teacher, Mary Kynett , who is now an EF tour guide, recently logged 68,000 steps in one day on a tour of Washington, D.C. Her footwear of choice is the Sawtooth X Low Hiking Shoes from Oboz, a company based in our home state of Montana. While I don’t own a pair of Oboz shoes, a travel editor friend of mine did ask me to test them for a "Best of 2024" gear guide recently, and they passed with flying colors. In fact, the brand's hikers — praised within the industry for their above-average traction and durability — were the only pair of shoes featured. 

New Balance Women's 327 Sneakers

When Karolina Bolek, Shore Excursions Manager for Riverside Luxury Cruises , wakes up for her 9 to 5 job, she has to be prepared to walk at least 7 miles. Still, she wants to wear something chic. “I love the New Balance 327s because the trendy design adds a touch of flair to my uniform,” she shared, noting that she looks good and feels good when she wears them and she appreciates their versatility. “They are incredibly soft and comfortable, making them ideal for every activity from taking guests on culinary walks to hiking to find the best views and even exploring by bike.” 

New Balance Women's 608 V5 Cross Trainer Shoes

Ivan Vuković has been giving walking tours of Croatia's Dubrovnik for nearly 20 years, and he told me he also relies on New Balance, calling all of its shoes “very light and comfy.” While his favorite pick might not be the brand’s most fashionable style, this particular cross trainer is a tried-and-true pair (it has more than 26,000 five-star ratings) among travelers for its foam insert and substantial arch support. In a shopper review, an Amazon customer said , “[They're] worth every penny and I plan to get another pair,” adding that their physical therapist recommended them.

New Balance Women's 574 Core Sneakers

I promise there are other brands besides New Balance on this list. But, when I asked Zvonimir Medvidovic, a shore excursions tour guide for Riverside Luxury Cruises , what he wears on his 10-mile days, he started singing the praises of the 574 Core Sneakers: “They’re the perfect balance between comfort and style, making them a great choice for both casual wear and active use.” Over at Zappos, a reviewer commented that "you'll notice the airiness in the sole as soon as you put them on," adding that "you can walk tens of thousands of steps in these shoes without experiencing soreness in your feet." 

Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes

Jaime Purinton loves her job leading hikes for the Anza-Borrego Foundation , the nonprofit partner of California’s largest state park. While her tours don’t span all 600,000 acres of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , she does cover a lot of uneven terrain, which means she needs a reliable shoe with lots of traction. “The Merrell Moab Ventilators are ideal for these conditions due to their excellent ventilation, which keeps feet cool and dry, and their sturdy construction, providing stability and protection on rough trails,” she explained. With more than 10,000 five-star ratings at Amazon, these shoes definitely earned their spot in the top 10 of the retailer's list of Best-selling Women’s Hiking Shoes . 

Hoka Women's Clifton 9 Running Shoes

Jim Wahler, who leads “ NYC in a Day ” tours, walks so much has to replace his shoes every three months. “I typically walk 35 to 50 miles each week and will only do it in my Hoka Clifton 9s,” he declared. “Before I was introduced to the Hoka brand, my feet were sore and I tended to have blisters.” These days, his feet are ready to run the New York City Marathon. He even wears his Hokas year-round in extreme temperatures ranging from 12 degrees to 98 degrees Fahrenheit. Still on the fence? On Zappos, this podiatrist-approved pair of shoes has more than 2,000 five-star ratings. Plus, it comes in 27 colors, so it’s easy to find a look you love. 

Allbirds Men's Tree Runner Sneakers 

Five years ago, David Braha found his sole mate: the Allbirds Tree Runners. “They are versatile for athleisure-wear and cross over very well for business casual,” the New York City-based architecture tour guide told me. Then he cautioned me against getting caught up in semantics: “While these shoes are named ‘runners,’ they’re still perfect for walking.” He loves that they feel like slippers and can be worn without socks in the summer. At Allbirds, this popular model has more than 7,500 five-star ratings and is available in 12 colors. 

Kuru Women's Stride Slip-on Shoes

Enocha Edenfield may lead ghost tours in Savannah, Georgia, but she isn’t haunted by foot pain. Her secret? The Kuru Strides. “They offer quality support, and they’re breathable which is perfect for our hot summers," she began. "Plus, they’re closed-toe to protect my toes from our uneven sidewalks.” Not familiar with Kuru? The brand's shoes feature a unique curved “heel-cupping” design, which further protects one of the most vulnerable parts of the foot. 

If $135 is more than you want to pay for slip-on shoes, try the Skechers Go Walk Joy Sneakers , which are just $51 at Amazon. They’re similar in style and boast more than 67,000 five-star ratings. 

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The Most Comfortable Sneakers for Travel, According to Our Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Wherever I'm headed, near or far, whether it's a two-week trip to Europe or a two-day stay down the shore , I'll always have a pair of comfortable sneakers on my feet (and maybe a second pair in my suitcase). The most comfortable sneakers can make the difference between a perfect travel day spent exploring a new city and a painful afternoon at the hotel with a foot full of blisters.

Our editors know just how important packing the right pair of kicks really is, so I turned to them to help put together a list of lightweight, breathable, wear-all-day sneakers. Our go-to sneakers are just as versatile as they are comfy, with some pairs working just as well on a run as they do to brunch. Ahead, discover the sneakers we travel with regularly, from casual, cool New Balance dad shoes and always reliable Allbirds to cushioned Hokas you can pound the pavement in.

Browse the most comfortable sneakers by style:

The casual sneaker, the elevated sneaker, the athletic sneaker.

Ideal for a busy travel day, Kizik's Milan sneaker can be slipped on and off easily, no hands needed. “I’ve worn them to work, all across New York City and New Jersey , and recently took them to Maine. I haven’t complained once about my feet thanks to the ultra-cushioned foam insoles,” says commerce writer Paris Wilson . This nylon retro-inspired shoe comes in a variety of colorways, and you can even grab them in a leather version , too.

Allbirds reign supreme in the comfort department. The Tree Runners are particularly lightweight and perfect for travel. “Not only are these sneakers light and stretchy enough to easily slip on and off while zipping through airport security, but they’re also just as easy on my feet as my favorite pair of Uggs (yet much more functional and fashionable)," says contributor Lauren Dana Ellman . These versatile workhorses are available in a slew of neutral hues, matching everything in your capsule wardrobe . “The shoes are also true to size, and, even better, you won’t even need to break them in ahead of time: Just slip them on, tie up the laces, and get going. They’re made with eucalyptus, which is known for its breathability and thermo-regulating properties, keeping your feet surprisingly cool."

Read a full review here .

These New Balance 574s have been one of my most-worn shoes for the past few years. They're a perfect balance of sporty and stylish, and are neutral enough to match nearly anything in my carry-on . Looks aside, they've never let me down comfort-wise; from long commutes to the office to city walking tours around Boston , they've kept my feet comfortable every time. What stands out most to me is how lightweight they are—despite giving off the cool dad shoe vibe, they aren't clunky or heavy at all. They've also stayed in excellent condition over the years, which is more than I can say about most of my white sneakers.

Associate editor Charlie Hobbs waxed poetic last year about his long-standing love for New Balance dad shoes . His claim: They are the ultimate travel shoe. Among his favorites are the popular 9060 sneaker. “They are the only sneakers I pack," says Hobbs. “My conservatism is rewarded. I am obsessed with these sneakers. They are so comfortable, the Platonic ideal of the walking shoe.” They shine for both style and comfort, and work well year-round. “The shoes don't merely survive such 30,000 step days—they improve, becoming softer, easier to wear, and never staining with the dust of the Tiergarten,” says Hobbs.

Earlier this year, Lululemon introduced its first casual sneaker—and Traveler contributor Rachel Chang was impressed to say the least. She put them to the test, wearing them all around the city and even during some runs for her Boston Marathon training—despite them not being billed as a running shoe. The verdict: They really held up: “From its 3D molded support and cushioning to its high-abrasion rubber traction, this no-fuss, everyday shoe is all about keeping you comfortable on the move,” says Chang. Even better, they look polished and stylish with any outfit. “I’ve paired the sneakers with running clothes, business casual dresses, jeans, and dress slacks. It's worked well with all of them—after all, nothing is as versatile as a white sneaker .”

When Hobbs isn't sporting in his New Balance dad shoes, he's probably wearing his go-to pair of Karhu sneakers. The Fusion 2.0 sneakers have a sporty, retro flare and are available in several fun color combinations. The shoe is an ode to the brand's best-selling running shoe of 1996, offering all the support and cushion the original was known for.

Ellman wore these canvas slip-ons all around Italy last summer. “I loved how they cushioned my feet without weighing them down thanks to their pillowy-soft albeit breathable foam outsoles,” she says. “I'm not being dramatic when I say they felt like I was walking on clouds. Even after trekking 17,000-plus steps per day around Rome and Florence , they've yet to unlace.” They're simple yet stylish, and feature removable and washable insoles.

As far as casual sneakers go, Nike Air Force 1s are about as classic as it gets. Chances are, you've had a pair of these in your closet at some point—and for good reason. They're the simple, sporty white sneaker you can pull out any day of the week without much thought needed. Versatile and timeless, I've packed this pair of wear-with-everything sneakers on countless trips over the years, from Miami to Milan .

Once reserved for soccer, the trending Adidas Samba is back and better than ever. These low-top sporty shoes complete any street style look, all while providing plenty of comfort. Editorial assistant Kat Chen swears by these practically weightless favorites: “They are my ride or die. I got this newest pair last summer, but the ones I had before I wore for literally a decade until they finally wore down.

These vegan leather sneakers from Banana Republic will help elevate any travel outfit, from slacks and jeans to dresses and skirts. They feature a rubber outsole for reduced shock and better traction, giving you all the flexibility you need on the go.

There's no shoe quite as versatile as an all-white sneaker . This sleek pair is a new favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager for both travel and commutes to work. The 100 percent vegan kicks are easy to slip on and off, and feature a compression molded cushioned midsole for added comfort and a slip-resistance outsole. “These sneakers were comfortable right out of the box, and wrap around your foot in a way that doesn't leave any sock indentations or irritation, even after hours walking around NYC,” says Flager.

We love Vejas for its slightly elevated take on the everyday casual sneaker. The Campo is minimal in design, but manages to look polished with every outf it, from jeans to dresses. Global digital director Arati Menon tells us that the Campo sneaker requires much less break-in time than other Veja styles. “I’ve taken my Campos on rugged national park adventures and European city breaks, and use them as workwear staples,” says Menon. If you need something sleek in your suitcase that will match anything you throw on, pack these.

Hannah Towey , associate editor of transportation and travel news, recently packed these bright-blue Gola sneakers on a trip to Paris for the Olympics —and they didn't let her down. “These are my favorite sneakers for when I’m walking a ton but still want to look cute (Paris is simply not the city for athleisure and running sneakers, even during sports events). They are well-priced and a fun alternative to the Adidas Sambas that are everywhere now.”

Adidas Stan Smiths might just become your most-worn sneaker—if they aren't already. These classics are so sleek, easy to slide on and off, and versatile enough to be the only sneaker you pack to your next destination. Associate editor Matt Ortile has been swearing by these for the last eight years. And if you're wondering where he's taken them: “Paris, always; exploring the ancient sites of Hegra in AlUla , Saudi Arabia; and walking through the jungles of Angaur, the southernmost state in Palau .”

The sock-style slip-on from podiatrist-approved footwear brand Naot is another go-to of Flager, particularly for city trips. It's a fun switch up to an all-white-shoe and the slip-on style makes them extra convenient for a walk through airport security ( just don't forget socks ). Flager recommends pairing these with the Bombas cushioned no-show sock .

If you're a runner, you're probably no stranger to the magic of Brooks. The brand's running shoes are praised for offering unrivaled support and breathability. Associate articles director Megan Spurrell regularly chooses these when she's trying to pack light . “I've tried a number of Brooks running shoes, but the Ghosts 15 feel like the perfect pair. They're cushy, but still springy; they're lightweight, but sturdy.”

My in-flight uniform isn't complete without a supportive sneaker, and for me, that's my Hola Clifton 9s. I fly in them, I work out in them, I go on walks in them—I trust these shoes with my life. They're always the only athletic pair of sneakers I pack on every trip. They have what looks like a thick platform, but that extra cushion and shock absorption only adds to the shoe’s comfort level. The EVA foam midsole provides a ton of support and makes your feet feel like they're on a pillow.

These pretty blue runners are a go-to for senior destinations editor Shannon McMahon . They're designed with built-in flexible nylon plates that act as a springboard, advancing your stride and offering lots of support. These lightweight running shoes are breathable, cushioned, and stylish, too.

Meet Wilson' tried-and-true athletic trainer. The Saysh One is the first sneaker released by Allyson Felix 's brand, and was designed specifically for a woman's foot. You can wear these to the gym or a workout class, but they can also pass for your everyday casual sneaker, meaning this can be the only sneaker you pack on a trip if need be. “This shoe is also incredibly lightweight and molds to your foot,” says Wilson. “And it's designed with two of my favorite aesthetic traits: thin laces and a woven texture.”

Hokas are just so good, we had to add a second pair to our list. Glamour 's senior commerce editor, Jenifer Calle , swears by these for long, hot travel days. “I wore these sneakers when I was in San Antonio last year and they were a lifesaver for my feet,” Calle says. “My sneakers were very bouncy and breathable, so my feet never felt tired or sweaty.”

Still looking for the perfect travel shoe?

• The best walking shoes for long travel days
• The most versatile white sneakers
• The best running shoes
• The best women's slip-on shoes
• Our favorite New Balance dad shoes

What To Buy For Your Travels

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The Best Walking Shoes for Men, According to Testing

From max cushioning to stability shoes, we found the most comfortable sneakers to wear all day.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Asics men's gel-cumulus 26 running shoe.

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 10

Best for Wide Feet

New balance men's fresh foam x 1080 v13 running shoe.

Whether you're lacing up your sneakers for a walk or run, you need the right footwear. Without the proper support and cushioning, every step you take has the potential to lead to discomfort and even injury. The best walking shoes for men are lightweight, offer superior foot support and cushioning, and, above all, are comfortable during extended wear.

In our walking shoe tests, ASICS sneakers continue to be top performers. The Gel-Cumulus line offers neutral support with ample cushioning that's still sleek, making for an attractive sneaker that's comfortable to wear on walks and runs. The foam cushioning is gel-infused for improved shock absorption. Designed for added comfort and ankle stability, this pair features a padded back tab by the heel. This shoe is designed for those who underpronate (foot rolls outward) or have neutral feet; if you overpronate, this isn't the best shoe for you.

"I love the cushioning and look of these sneakers," reported one tester who wore this pair on brisk walks. Testers liked that they were easy to slip into while still feeling secure. One GH analyst said, "They felt just as comfortable out of the box and after wearing them for 10,000 steps."

While most walking shoes cost over $100, this pair costs about half that. This pair from Under Armour has a classic design with a soft, sock liner and a breathable upper for a comfortable, airy fit. Available in 23 colors, including red, blue and gray, this pick has an impressive size range with standard, X-wide and XX-wide widths.

Because of the ample cushioning around the collar and midfoot, one tester reported, " All that cushioning made my foot feel comfortable during casual wear —running errands and such." He also added that they are "excellent shoes for standing at my standing desk for long periods of time." The compression-molded foam in the midsole is designed to improve the shoes' durability, but testers found the foam firmer than other shoes. One tester found this pair "too clunky" for longer runs or walks.

Shoes need to fit properly not only from heel to toe but also from side to side. Opting for wide sizing can help ensure you have enough room in the toebox to prevent pinching or rubbing. These New Balance shoes have wide and extra-wide sizing options for a comfortable fit. Testers with wide feet applauded these shoes for their excellent fit with a stretchy knit upper to accommodate bunions too.

The brand's signature foam is plush for a cloud-like feel without adding extra weight. This pair features a rocker design for smoother transitions from heel to toe. Testers were especially impressed with its comfortable cushioning. One tester, who wore these sneakers on 2-mile walks, said, " The extra foam definitely puts a pep in my step. The extra bounce is almost a mood changer." He also liked the appearance of these sneakers compared to his previous walking shoes. Some sizes are only available in limited colorways.

Brooks Men’s Glycerin 21 Neutral Running Shoe

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you know how difficult it can be to find shoes that properly support your arches and prevent heel pain. Brooks shoes continue to be top performers in our tests for their unparalleled arch support and stability. This pair has super soft cushioning for walkers who prefer a pillowy feel . With neutral support and maximal cushioning, this pair is designed to be lightweight and responsive for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

"They haven’t flared up my plantar fasciitis at all, even after many hours of wear and several miles," reported one tester. He added, "I especially like how these shoes offer more arch support compared to all of my other sneakers." He found this pair to be comfortable right out of the box too. "For me, the plush feel is unbeatable." Some testers noted they looked a bit clunky and would have preferred a sleeker appearance.

Merrell Agility Peak 5

When walking on trails, you need a pair of shoes that offer sufficient traction without feeling too heavy or bulky. These Merrell hiking sneakers have a rugged outsole with a toe cap that helps provide enough traction on all types of trails, wet or dry, while protecting you from debris. With thicker cushioning in the midsole and a padded collar, these shoes are designed to feel comfortable mile after mile. The brand also offers a GORE-TEX waterproof version.

"The sneakers have more than enough cushioning for a rocky trail hike and easily transition to city sidewalk walking," said one tester who wore this pair when walking on trails and commuting to work. He said they looked great "with jeans, athletic clothes or casual work clothes." He added that they are "very comfortable shoes for a wide variety of purposes."

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4

These Saucony sneakers are designed to feel cushiony and light on your feet even after 10+ miles. This is the only style included in this round-up with a carbon plate, which helps return energy back to your feet for a more comfortable feel when covering longer distances. The shoe is designed to help propel you forward with responsive foam. Some testers even reported that they felt like they could run faster in these shoes. We like the sleek sock liner and stretchy, integrated tongue for immediate comfort as soon as you put the shoes on. Note that these shoes are only available in limited colors and sizes with no wide widths.

Popular for feeling lightweight with comfortable cushioning, these shoes received high marks from walkers and runners. One tester said, "I enjoy running in them and due to the large cushioned sole, I feel very light on my feet."

Hoka Clifton 9

When we asked testers which brand of sneakers they were currently wearing, Hoka was the most popular answer. The thick cushioning on this pair may seem intimidating initially, but the foam midsole creates a responsive feel, ideal for anyone with joint pain. The early stage meta-rocker helps propel you forward for smoother heel-to-toe transitions. "They felt immediately comfortable from the first wear," said one tester. He added that they "don't flare up my plantar fasciitis and my feet feel actively supported during long periods of exercise."

Designed with comfort top of mind, this pair has a padded collar and tongue to prevent painful rubbing or blisters. The stretchy knit upper allows excellent airflow, but testers did note that water easily soaked through in rainy weather.

Kizik Athens Hands Free Mens or Womens Sneakers

Kizik designs slip-on shoes that don't sacrifice style, like these sneakers with a classic, athletic design. This sneaker features the brand's signature flexible cage at the heel of the shoe that springs back into place when you step in, ideal for anyone with mobility concerns. We appreciate that this hands-free, gender-neutral sneaker is sold in a wide range of sizes from a men's 4.5 (women's 6) to a men's 15 (women's 16.5).

One tester with Parkinson's reported that Kizik sneakers are easier for him to get on than any of his other shoes. Another tester shared, "I'm always rushing out of the house, so slip-on sneakers are a total game-changer." Some testers noted that these shoes don't offer enough support for running and only recommend wearing them on casual walks.

Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Sneaker

If you love walking as a warm-up to gym workouts, a cross-trainer sneaker is ideal. Our testers were impressed by how comfortable these Reebok cross-trainers were when lifting weights and jogging on a treadmill. "These shoes are incredibly supportive through the midsole and heel. You almost feel locked in," said one tester who wore this pair on brisk walks and during gym workouts. He added, " I really enjoyed how breathable they were — my feet tend to run pretty hot and I didn't run into any moisture or stink issues." He reported that the toebox felt wide and comfortable without any pinching. The flat bottom helps provide stability when weightlifting but may be too stiff for longer walks or runs.

On Running Men's Cloud 5 Sneakers

Avoid lugging around heavy shoes with these lightweight sneakers from On Running. This pair comes with either traditional or stretchy laces, so you can easily slip them on. The brand's CloudTec cushioning is popular for soft landings without a bulky foam midsole . Because they lack stability features and thicker cushioning, they are less suited to someone with foot or joint sensitivities. There is also a waterproof version of this shoe.

"The shoes are impressively lightweight and I thought they wouldn't offer enough support, but they were surprisingly comfortable," said one tester. Another tester said, "I like the flexible design of the sole, [which] allows the shoe to be a bit more responsive to whatever is underfoot." He added, "They have a great look to them and feel very sturdy on my foot!" Multiple testers applauded how well this pair works for both walking and gym workouts.

Columbia Men's Konos TRS OutDry Shoes

Avoid uncomfortable wet socks with a waterproof shoe that doesn't feel stuffy. This pair of hiking sneakers from Columbia features OutDry technology with bonded construction between the waterproof membrane and the outer shell to keep water out of the shoe. This technology allows these sneakers to be both waterproof and breathable.

With thicker cushioning, these shoes are designed to take you from hiking to commuting. The molded footbed helps support your feet and arches while cradling your heel to help reduce impact. To prevent slips in wet conditions, the outsole has deep grooves for excellent traction. "They are supportive and substantial but still lightweight and breathable," said one tester. He gave perfect scores across the board for comfort, fit and traction. "They’re very comfortable and convenient to wear for a long walk or quick errand," he added. His only concern was they looked "a bit boring and clunky." There are more sizes and colors available on Columbia's site .

How we tested the best walking shoes for men

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab regularly evaluates shoes for their performance in daily activities from walking to running and hiking. We depend on our network of consumer testers with varying shoe sizes and foot shapes to provide feedback on the comfort, aesthetics and utility of shoes as they use them in their day-to-day lives. We combine this feedback with in-Lab data, assessing the construction, materials, and durability.

In our latest walking shoes test, we put 25 shoes to the test with testers ranging from a men's size 8 to a men's size 13. Each tester wore the shoe for at least 3 hours (culminating in over 250 hours of walk testing!) on different terrains, including sidewalks, hiking trails, roads and even at the gym. Here are the main factors we considered before making these recommendations:

• Comfort: We noted how comfortable each shoe was right out of the box and after wearing it all day. Each tester rated how comfortable the shoes felt and if they caused any noticeable pain in their feet or joints.
• Fit: All testers tried on the shoes in Lab and gave notes about fit, including the length of the shoe, size of the toebox and more.
• Cushioning: We evaluated each pair's cushioning to see if it was soft or firm. Testers rated the cushioning to ensure it was even throughout the sole and helped absorb shock on walks.
• Stability: For shoes designed for overpronation or underpronation, we evaluated whether they helped improve walkers' gaits.
• Value: Because walking shoes from top brands tend to be expensive, we compared each pair's cost to its performance to ensure it is a quality buy.

What to look for when shopping for walking shoes

There are a few items to consider when looking for walking shoes:

✔️ Check in with your podiatrist or physician: If you're experiencing foot pain or have recently sustained an injury, check with your podiatrist or orthopedist for recommendations or their thoughts on a pair of shoes you're considering. Their knowledge of the foot's anatomy and your specific needs related to pain/injury will help you make the right decision.

✔️ Comfort: Dr. Johnson advises that comfort is of utmost importance when selecting a walking shoe. Be sure to try on a pair and make sure that it feels good on the feet before locking in your purchase. If you're shopping online, choose retailers that allow returns in case the fit isn't just right.

✔️ Weight: Generally speaking, lighter-weight shoes will offer more comfort and be easier to walk in for extended durations. The exception is if you have a specific foot concern, which may require the greater support of a heavier shoe.

✔️ Traction: We recommend taking a peek at the shoes' outsole before purchasing. Look for treads and grooves to ensure they'll offer sufficient traction. If you enjoy walking on rugged terrain or trails, opt for hiking-specific sneakers.

✔️ Waterproof: Most sneakers aren't waterproof because waterproof shoes are less breathable and can feel sweaty after extensive wear. We recommend only wearing waterproof sneakers in rainy weather or muddy conditions and sticking with more breathable options regularly.

As a data engineer in the Good Housekeeping Institute , Nik (he/him) works with all of our Labs to develop testing protocols and manage data collection and analysis. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022 , Nik worked in the labs of MIT and Regeneron, working on projects ranging from chemical inventory and reporting to the development of bioassays. He holds a degree in chemical engineering from Northeastern University.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best sandal
• Best cushioned
• Best arch support
• Best lightweight
• Best waterproof
• Best for travel
• Best chunky
• How we tested

What to look for

The 10 most comfortable walking shoes for women, tested over 50 miles of concrete and trails.

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If you're wearing fashion sneakers, thin flip flops, or even overly-cushioned running shoes on your walks, you're not supporting your feet as best you can. The best walking shoes for women will feel supportive for your specific foot structure and help minimize the impact on your joints, protect your foot tendons from feeling strained, and lower your chances of developing a stress fracture, which women are more prone to, says Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS , podiatrist with Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic.

I put 20 walking shoes and five walking sandals to the test over 50 miles to determine the 10 most comfortable options. From walking shoes on a budget to street-style sneakers, each pick proved to be supportive and worth your money. My top overall pick is the Adidas Ultraboost Light , which you can read about in detail below. I also call out a couple pairs of the best Hokas I've ever tried.

The top 3 best walking shoes for women:

My top pick is the Adidas Ultraboost Light, which have spacious uppers for your feet to spread out, a supportive midsole, and an attractive design.

If aesthetics are the reason you always reach for a fashion sneaker, I recommend this retro-inspired design with extremely comfortable and supportive technology underfoot.

These walking sandals have straps made of soft webbing that won't give you any hot spots, and their soles are cushioned with padding that's the perfect balance between plush and firm.

Best overall: Adidas Ultraboost Light

Of the 20 walking shoes I tested, the Adidas Ultraboost Light were the pair I kept reaching for when headed out the door to run errands time and time again. These shoes weigh just 9.2 ounces and have a soft, textile upper, which Daughtry says is crucial in a great walking shoe as it offers more space and breathability for your foot. 

The midsole is well-cushioned, which Daughtry also highlights to help with shock absorption and minimize added stress. After walking all day in these shoes, my feet felt pain-free and well-supported. The BOOST technology in the midsole offers a little bounce with every step. Though they are technically a neutral shoe, my high arches also felt well-supported on long miles, so they seem to be a good fit for all pronation types. 

While I enjoyed walking in these shoes the most of everything I tested, it's a bonus that they're good-looking. They're also made from at least 20% recycled materials, sometimes more depending on which color you buy.

I know some people with wide feet who've found the plastic lace closures in this shoe dig into the top of their foot since that upper isn't rigid, but my feet are on the regular-to-wide side of the spectrum and I didn't find any issue with this. Otherwise, the major downside is these shoes are pricey (unless you catch them on sale). Read more in my full Adidas Ultraboost Light review .

Best budget: Rykä Devotion X

These Ryka sneakers are proof that you don't have to spend big to find supportive shoes for your feet. For just $80, the Devotion X have all of Daughtry's must-haves: a roomy knit upper for breathability on long, hot miles; responsive cushioning for shock absorption; an EVA proprietary foam that provides soft cushioning, including built-up cushioning in the midfoot for stability and arch support; and a padded heel. They even boast the Seal of Acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

These are one of the few shoes on our list designed specifically for walking, which means they don't have a meta-rocker or any unnecessary design features that come with some running shoes. After a 3-mile walk, I found these shoes to be incredibly comfortable. The knit upper is very soft and formed to my foot shape, so these shoes felt like a light hug but not at all tight. They were also extremely breathable and kept my feet from building up heat after multiple miles.

The design isn't revolutionary so these shoes won't earn you a ton of compliments, but they're not noticeably unattractive.

The main downsides are that if you underpronate (supinate), the stability design for these shoes might throw off your biomechanics. Also, while the construction matches the price point here, these shoes aren't the most durable with minimal reinforcements in the knit upper, so if you wear through your shoes quickly, a budget option might not equal value for you.

Best sandal: Teva Zymic Hiking Sandal

Whether you're going on "hot girl walks" or looking for a sandal to hike in, the Teva Zymic Hiking Sandal is incredibly comfortable right out of the box and keeps your feet supported on long miles. It proved to be the best walking sandal of the five I tested.

Crafted with a dual-density foam footbed and a thick, responsive midsole, these walking sandals feel stable yet slightly cushy and bouncy under-foot (but definitely not squishy). During testing, I wore them all day and, unlike with other walking sandals, my feet didn't feel sore underneath or strained on top. My arches were supported and even on the first wear, I didn't get any hot spots on an 85°F walk. 

These walking sandals use a four-strap system, crafted from cushioned webbing so it feels very soft against skin and securely holds your foot in place. That way, none of your small tendons are being strained as you step, like with slides or flip flops. The straps are easy to adjust to fit the shoes snugly against your toes and ankle, and then very easy to release and slip off.

I love that the outsole has some traction so you can wear them on light hikes or in the water without slipping. Also, nearly all of the material in the shoe is partially or entirely recycled. These sandals come in four colors and, while they're certainly an outdoorsy aesthetic, they give off a cool retro vibe. Read about how Tevas compare to another popular sport sandal in our full Chacos vs. Tevas review .

Best cushioned: Puma Magnify Nitro 2

Cushioned walking shoes are great for anyone with special needs in their feet, be it extra high arches, flat feet, overpronation, or achy knees. Puma's Magnify Nitro 2 have the thickest piece of foam among all the shoes in Puma's line-up, but it's also very lightweight so you get all the cushion without too much weight (just 8.07 ounces overall). 

During testing, I found these shoes to be far less stiff and more comfortable across the entire foot when walking for long distances compared to the high-cushion competitors I tested like Hoka's Bondi 8 . Instead, the Puma's knit upper is breathable, forms to the foot, and feels very durable, as it's reinforced with proprietary seamless tape. I found the molded heel collar to be especially comfortable on long, hot walks. In my opinion, Puma has inserted highly-engineered features in all the right places while keeping the shoe streamlined overall to keep that weight down—and it shows in how comfortable the Magnify Nitro 2 are to wear on long walks.

It's worth noting these shoes run a full size small, so I wore an 8.5 instead of my regular 7.5. 

Unfortunately, these shoes only come in one colorway. And while I found the toe box to be very comfortable with my standard-to-wide feet, if your feet are markedly wide, they might feel slightly too snug.

Best arch support: Hoka Gaviota 5

Women with higher arches usually need additional support in their shoes or more stability in the midfoot area to prevent excessive flattening of the foot and arch, Daughtry says. I myself have high arches, and often find that running shoes leave my arches aching after 2 miles of walking. Among the 20 shoes I tested, the Hoka Gaviota 5 were the most supportive.

The Gaviota 5s have a similar amount of cushioning and weight to Hoka's best-selling Bondi shoe , but is infused with additional stability and a slightly higher heel drop to better support high arches. Because of the proprietary stabilizing frame in the shoe, the designers were able to also use a softer foam which I found incredibly plush under-foot. 

The Gaviota 5 also has a mesh upper and wider forefoot base and toe box, which kept my feet cool and roomy (in a comfortable way, not a swimming-around-the-shoe kind of way). This shoe also has a plush tongue and collar that feels soft on foot. It boasts the the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance.

Note that this shoe does have a rocker design, which Daughtry says some people won't find as comfortable in a walking shoe. Also, the wider toe box design may mean this shoe is too wide for those with a narrow foot. Lastly, like most Hokas, the Gaviota 5 are one of the pricier shoes on our list. In my opinion, the design, quality, and craftsmanship makes them worth it if it's in the budget. You can read about the best Hokas I've tested over the last decade for more of my favorite styles from the brand.

Best lightweight: Merrell Morphlite

I could not be more thrilled with the performance of this dark horse shoe. Merrell has long been a leader in the hiking shoe space, but in 2022, the brand made renewed its place in the trail shoe category. The Morphlite is an incredibly lightweight, incredibly comfortable shoe that felt so good on long walks, I only wanted to keep wearing them.

These shoes are technically a road-to-trail shoe, which means they have a center of shorter lugs for road running and a perimeter of slightly-deeper lugs (2mm) to grip slippery trails. And while wearing a true trail shoe on pavement can often feel like a cleat, I found the Morphlite to be incredibly balanced and comfortable on both pavement and trail. That's probably thanks to the proprietary foam midsole which feels like a balanced plushness, sitting between lightly foamy and firm.

After an hour of walking in these shoes, I did feel a bit of strain in the back of my arch and front of my heel, so they probably aren't ideal if you have extremely high arches or an issue like plantar fasciitis. But for the average foot, they're very comfortable.

The Morphlite's Jacquard recycled knit upper encases the foot for a very close fit. I found this to feel secure and comfortable, but if you have a high-volume foot, it might be too snug. I like that the knit is strategically reinforced for harder trail wear.

Best waterproof: Hoka Transport GTX

These waterproof sneakers are my choice for a lightweight alternative to rain boots . I wore these on multiple walks and hikes and found them to be very comfortable. The Transport GTX isn't as cushioned as other Hokas —they're more balanced than plush — but the EVA midsole felt comfortable for 1- to 3-mile walks.

Most of all, the waterproofing is a 10/10: I tromped through a pile of snow on one early spring testing walk and, where my husband's feet were soaked in normal sneakers, mine remained bone dry. That's not surprising, considering the upper is treated with GORE-TEX, which, it's worth noting, does cost you some breathability. But I loved that the upper was still mesh for a roomy fit, while also being strategically reinforced to last against the elements. 

I also really liked the functionality of these shoes. The main laces are a pull-tab design which makes it easy to secure or loosen the shoe, but unlike a lot of other similar designs, Hoka's quick-toggle lace tucks away so the tail isn't flopping anywhere. I also love that the shoes come with traditional laces you can restring if desired, as I know a lot of people who don't like the quick-toggle designs.

Note that these shoes have neutral stability, so they may not be supportive enough for people with high arches. And if you like a plush walking shoe, these might be too stiff for you.

Best for travel: Allbirds Superlight Tree Runners

Allbirds' SuperLight collection is one of our favorites we've has tested from the brand. Since a key component of walking shoes is being lightweight (these are just about 5 ounces) and we were already fans of their original Tree Runners , this upgraded version makes perfect sense for anyone who wants a shoe that literally leaves a light carbon footprint. They're especially ideal for warmer weather thanks to their perforated eucalyptus fiber knit upper and airy sugarcane-based foam soles. Style editor Samantha Crozier tested a pair and was impressed with their barely-there feel. "If you're going on a trip and want to take a pair of sneakers that will barely take up any weight or room in your suitcase, these are it. But even though they weigh almost nothing, they don't feel cheap or like they'll fall apart. Plus, I love the extra bit of padding on the heel right where most sneakers will give you blisters."

Read more in our full Allbirds SuperLight review .

Best retro: Under Armour Essential Runner Shoes

I lost count of the number of times friends complimented me on these shoes, only to follow with, "They're Under Armour!?" If you're looking for supportive walking shoes that will look just as good as they feel walking around cities and airports, the Under Armour Essential Runner Shoes are for you. 

Under Armour has taken its athletic performance technology and infused it into this retro street-style design: These walking shoes have a cushioned EVA midsole that feels perfectly supportive — not overly cushioned or stabilized like many running-based shoes on our list, but also not stiff or cramped like most comparable fashion sneakers of this design. The heel cup is cushy with a foam sockliner for extra comfort. The Essential Runners are designed with a lightweight, breathable nylon upper and suede overlays strategically placed to not restrict the natural shape of your foot like other designs do.

These shoes come in five colorways and some are certainly more attractive than others. And at 12 ounces, these sneakers aren't as light as some shoes on our list, but they're definitely not heavy on foot. I've walked over two miles in them and wore them for eight hours non-stop while traveling, and can definitively say the comfort and design of this shoes has earned them top spot as my new city sneaker — especially considering they're very affordable.

Best chunky: CAT Intruder

These hypebeast-worthy sneakers made by the streetwear arm of Caterpillar Tractor Co. were surprisingly comfortable to walk in for upwards of 45 minutes during testing. I won't pretend like these shoes were nearly as comfortable as most winners on this list. But it's incredibly hard to find a cool-looking sneaker that is supportive and comfortable, so the CAT Intruder is worth putting forth.

These sneakers are made with a soft EVA foam footbed that feels responsive and comfortable underfoot. However, they are also designed with beefy lugs to deliver that workwear aesthetic, and because of this, I found they start to feel a bit stiff after an hour. However, they are still far more comfortable than most street shoes.

One important fact to highlight about these shoes is they're unisex, which means they aren't specifically designed for a woman's foot shape, which is typically narrower across the board, tapers more at the heel, and often has higher arches. That being said, I think they actually fit women better than they would men. Often unisex designs mean female heels slip out easier, but these sneakers have a soft nylon mesh sock lining that's padded at the heel; I loved how much vertical coverage and cushy support these shoes offered at the heel and I never felt any risk of slippage. That said, they aren't super supportive for high arches.

The Intruder Shoe is designed with upper panels of soft nylon that help to shave a little weight off and offer some breathability. But, in reality, the suede overlays are pretty pervasive across the shoe's body which add to the rugged aesthetic but prevent the sneakers from being markedly breathable; I didn't have an issue with my feet overheating during testing, but could see that happening at the height of summer.

All in all, if you're looking for max comfort, this shoe isn't it. But if you're looking for a trendy silhouette that'll be far more comfortable to walk in than most other options, the CAT Intruders are certainly worth the mid-price point.

How we tested the best women's walking shoes

To determine the best walking shoes for women, I tested 20 sneakers and five walking sandals total. I wore each shoe on three or more walks. Some shoes proved to be too stiff, not supportive enough, or otherwise uncomfortable after just a quarter mile and were immediately put in "no" category. 

For the sandals and sneakers that made it through the initial assessment, I walked in each pair for at least 2 miles, both outdoors on pavement and indoor on a treadmill or my walking desk, and continued to wear them for an entire day around the house and running errands to determine how breathable, stiff, and cushioned they feel after multiple hours of wear. 

That means the final selections have proven that they are comfortable not only for walking multiple miles, but also for wearing for multiple hours if you're, say, walking around a city on vacation.

How to pick the best walking shoes for women

What to avoid.

Even though most of us walk in whatever sneakers we already have on hand, there are certain categories of shoes that, according to Daughtry, you shouldn't wear walking more than 10 minutes:

• Fashion sneakers : Most stylish sneakers are designed with a more narrow toe box and low to no cushioning or support for better aesthetics. But the trade-off is zero shock absorption and more strain on your foot when walking.
• Certain running sneakers : Rocker-design running shoes tend to have higher heel drops. This design gives better propulsion and bounce when running, but disrupts the natural stride while walking. Daughtry explains that a good walking shoe is less bouncy and gives a more natural cadence to your stride during the gait cycle.
• Cushioning : This is the most important aspect of a walking shoe, Daughtry says. Sufficient cushioning will absorb the shock from repetitive pounding that our feet undergo with every step. If you know you have tender heels, see our guide to the best shoes for plantar fasciitis .
• Arch support: If you have high arches, you'll want a shoe with extra arch support to maintain ideal biomechanics (and avoid achy arches at the end of the day). Technically, you can add inserts to any shoe, but that can change the way the shoe fits overall, so often it's best to just opt for a shoe with great arch support from the start.
• Shape : Walking shoes should have a wide base, particularly in the toe box, so your toes can spread naturally, and overall distribute your weight evenly to avoid any muscle strains in your foot.
• Your gait : There are three ways your foot may strike the ground: overpronating, where your foot rolls inward; supinate, where your foot rolls outward; and neutral, where it stays rather flat. This influences where you need extra support in a shoe, as the goal is to have even pressure across your foot with each step. Try looking at the bottom of your most worn shoes — wherever they're the most faded, that's where you want extra cushioning in a walking shoe.
• Support and stability : All shoes should feel supportive, but this is relative to whether you overpronate or remain neutral. If you overpronate, look for a stability shoe versus a neutral shoe.
• Weight : Look for a walking shoe that's between 8 and 12 ounces. Walking shoes usually feel a bit heavier than most trainers because they're well-cushioned, but the heavier the shoe, the more tired your feet will be on long days out walking.
• Traction: Most people are wearing a walking shoe on pavement, so any traction will work. If you're looking for a walking shoe to wear on trails, look for one with more tread.
• Breathability : A mesh upper is great in a walking shoe, as it offers more space and breathability compared to rigid leather. 

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These 17 Pairs Of Packable Shoes Won't Weigh Your Luggage Down

Shopping Writer for HuffPost

Staff Writer

As a self-confessed over-packer, those extra pairs of shoes that I insist on cramming into my suitcase are the one thing that always makes my luggage overweight or impossible to close.

If you’re like me and refuse to reassess which shoes are “essential” for travel and which ones are not, consider choosing a pair that are not only cute and functional, but are also designed to be ultra-packable.

After scouring the internet in search of such pairs, I created the upcoming lineup of sandals, sneakers, flats and all-terrain outdoor shoes that are supremely easy to pop in your luggage and travel right along with you.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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The 8 best running shoes for women

Here are our picks for every kind of runner, whether you have flat feet, run on trails, or need stability.

Finding the best running shoes for women largely depends on personal preference. However, there are a few basic factors to consider. For one thing, it’s important to consider the type of surface you’ll be running on as well as the distances you typically cover. You’ll also want to consider comfort and stability, especially for longer runs or trail running. These greatly impact which shoe will be right for you.   

After conducting extensive research, the Hoka Mach 6 stood out to us. They’re lightweight, responsive, and suitable for a variety of training runs. We also found a few other top picks to suit different needs. Here are our favorite women’s running shoes in eight categories.   

Our picks for the best running shoes for women 

The best women’s running shoes   .

Whether you’re hitting mountain trails or sticking to paved roads, these running shoes are great options for women.    

Best overall: Hoka Mach 6    

Buy it now at Hoka

Why we like it: The Hoka Mach 6 is a great choice for an all-around running shoe due to its lightweight design and responsive cushioning . Hoka is known for making comfortable running shoes, and the Mach 6 offers a decent amount of cushioning without impacting weight. Reviewers praise its ability to handle a variety of running workouts, from fast-paced interval sessions to long jogs. The updated rubber outsole extends the durability of the Mach 6, while the dual gussets help keep the tongue in place.   

Keep in mind: Customers have noted that the shoe fits narrower and firmer than this model’s predecessor, the Mach 5. But the Mach 6 come in a wide version .   

Product details: Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Width: Regular, wide | Heel drop: 5mm | Sizes: 5-11   

Best budget running shoes for women: Nike Pegasus 41    

Buy it now at Nike

Why we like it: The Nike Pegasus is a classic daily trainer with a reputation for being one of the best running shoes for women. They’re reliable with plenty of cushioning and support, and they’ve gotten lighter since the last iteration. With its responsive foam midsole and breathable mesh upper , these shoes are comfortable and versatile enough to log daily miles or push through a long run.    

Keep in mind: These shoes are heavier than other daily trainers on the market. If you’re looking for a lighter shoe with more bounce, you may want to try the Mach 6.    

Product details: Materials: Mesh upper, “React” foam midsole | Width: Medium, extra wide | Heel drop: 10mm | Sizes: 5-12   

Best trail running: Altra Lone Peak 7   

Buy it now at Altra

Why we like it: A fan-favorite for the trails, Altra’s Lone Peak 7 is designed for the demands of trail running. The “Maxtrac” rubber construction supports traction on the road, yet the shoe is flexible and has a wide toe box for natural toe splay. They’re a good middle ground between barefoot running and a cushioned ride. We also like the lightweight toe cap for protection against rocks and roots and the tab on the heel that lets you attach gaiters .    

Keep in mind: The Altra Lone Peak 7 is a zero-drop shoe , meaning there is no height difference between the heel and toe. Runners accustomed to a higher heel drop will need to ease into this pair to get the foot used to the different position.    

Product details:   Materials: Ripstop upper, Altra “Ego” midsole, “MaxTrac” outsole | Width: Regular, wide | Heel drop: 0mm | Sizes: 5.5-12   

Best road running shoe: Asics Novablast 4    

Buy it now on Amazon

Why we like it: We chose the Asics Novablast 4 as the best women’s road running shoe for lots of reasons. We love it because of its energy return and cushioning. It can handle runs of all types but really shines with faster tempo runs. The trampoline-inspired outsole and midsole are meant to give a bouncy feeling while running (it’s made with “Flytefoam Blast Plus Eco,” which comes from 20 percent recycled bio-based materials, according to the company). There’s also ample heel cushioning on the Novablast 4 for heel strikers. The lightweight mesh upper has small holes at the top of the toe box, which increases breathability on hot runs.    

Keep in mind: The Novablast 4 is heavier than other responsive shoes like the Mach 6. Some reviewers said they were disappointed with the traction .    

Product details: Materials: Woven upper, exposed foam outsole, “Flytefoam Blast Plus Eco” midsole | Width: Standard | Heel drop: 8mm | Sizes: 5-12       

Best stability running shoes for women: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23    

Why we like it: The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is the best running shoe for women who need stability while running. Stability shoes are great for women who tend to overpronate (when ankles roll in slightly) when they run. We love the “ GuideRail ” technology on both sides of the shoe, which helps reduce excess movement with overpronation. The manufacturer says the mesh upper provides extra breathability and more than 50 percent of it is made of recycled materials . The “DNA Loft v2” foam lends a plushness that makes this shoe a good option for long, easy runs .    

Keep in mind: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 has a 12mm drop— the highest heel-to-toe drop on this list. Joggers accustomed to running with a lower drop or who have a forefoot strike may not like the steepness.   

Product details: Materials: Engineered mesh upper, “DNA Loft v2” midsole | Width: Medium, narrow, wide, extra wide | Heel drop: 12mm | Sizes: 5-13   

Best for flat feet: Hoka Gaviota 5   

Why we like it: Flat feet are often caused by a collapsed arch, which can also lead to overpronation. The Gaviota 5 is built with “ H-Frame” technology that loops around the heel of the shoe. According to the manufacturer, this guides the foot through its natural gait cycle to help reduce overpronation . This pair also makes for a plush ride , a crucial component for runners who need arch support to stabilize the foot, according to Lori Grant, a podiatrist at Orland Health. We also like the maker’s “ MetaRocker ” feature, which mimics the movement of a rocking chair, helping to reduce the energy required for each heel-to-toe transition.        

Keep in mind: This shoe’s heavier weight may not appeal to all runners. Some noted that the Gaviota 5 runs large .   

Product details: Materials: Mesh upper, EVA midsole, Durabrasion rubber outsole | Width: Regular, wide | Heel drop: 6mm | Sizes: 5-12   

Best for arch support: Brooks Glycerin 21    

Why we like it: The Brooks Glycerin 21 stands out for its top-notch arch support and gel-like cushion , making it our best choice for runners needing extra support. The nitrogen-infused “DNA Loft” cushioning feels soft and luxurious underfoot without feeling heavy overall. Although the midsole foam is exposed, it’s durable enough to tackle serious mileage. Bonus: the manufacturer says the breathable mesh upper is made of more than 50 percent recycled material . We think this shoe is best for long, slow runs and easy recovery runs .   

Keep in mind: The high level of cushioning might feel too soft for runners who prefer a firmer ride. Some reviewers said the tongue stitching feels bulky and irritated the top of their foot.    

Product details:   Materials: Mesh upper, “DNA Loft” midsole, rubber outsole | Width: Medium, wide | Heel drop: 10mm | Sizes: 5-12   

Best for cushioning: On Cloudeclipse    

Buy it now at On

Why we like it: We think the On Cloudeclipse has some of the best cushioning in women’s running shoes. It’s made with “ Helion superfoam ” for responsive cushioning , plus it’s lightweight with an engineered mesh upper that make these a really comfortable pair of running shoes.    

Keep in mind: The soles lack adequate grip in rain . The price tag is higher than most maximum cushion trainers in its class.   

Product details:   Materials: Engineered mesh upper, “Helion superfoam” midsole, rubber outsole | Width: Standard | Heel drop: 6mm | Sizes: 5-11   

How we chose the best running shoes for women   

In determining the best running shoes for women, we cross-referenced multiple sources along with our own personal testing. These are some of the sources we used:    

• Third-party reviews: We looked at existing reviews from reputable sources and considered the experiences of actual customers. This includes online running forums and reviews from verified buyers on various running shoe sites.        
• Expert opinions: We consulted podiatrists and running experts to ensure the shoes we researched help foot health and enhance performance.   
• Personal testing: We tested many of the shoes ourselves to ensure they meet our standards for comfort, support, and durability.   

Tips for buying women’s walking shoes   

Arch support   .

Arch support can be an important factor for many runners. Those who suffer from issues such as tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints may experience more comfortable runs with shoes that offer good arch support.   

Cushioning      

When choosing a good pair of women’s running shoes, it’s helpful to think about the type of cushioning you want. Some runners prefer less cushioning so they can feel the ground. Others appreciate the shock absorption that comes with a ton of cushioning. Many runners find that lighter, less-cushioned shoes can help them run faster, while a plusher shoe helps them go for longer, slow runs.   

If you suffer from overpronation or have flat feet, shoes that have stabilizers can help reduce pain. Some stores that specialize in running shoes can test your gait for overpronation or underpronation.    

Proper fit is key to finding the right pair of running shoes. Stores that specialize in running shoes can be a great starting point. If you’re trying shoes on at home, make sure you can wriggle your toes when the shoes are laced up and that your heels don’t slip out from the back, says Grant.    

The materials used to construct a pair of running shoes can impact everything from support to breathability. Other important factors include where you’re running (paved roads, dirt trails, etc.) and the weather. If you’re planning to run in wetter climates, you may want to look for running shoes with good grip to tackle slippery surfaces. If it’s blazing hot out during your runs, look for shoes made with breathable mesh and a light upper to help regulate temperature.   

Frequently asked questions   

What brand is best for running shoes   .

Several top brands are known for producing top quality running shoes. They include Hoka, Nike, Asics, Brooks, and Altra. The best brand for you depends on your needs and preferences, as well as distance and terrain.   

Are running shoes good for walking?   

Yes, running shoes can be used for walking, especially pairs that offer a large amount of cushioning.    

What are the best women’s running shoes for concrete?   

Shoes with good cushioning and support, such as the Hoka Mach 6 or Asics Novablast 4, are best suited for running on concrete because they help absorb impact and may reduce strain on your joints.   

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Amazon has TikTok’s favorite Dr. Scholl’s sneakers on sale, which fans say are the ‘best for travel’

• Published: Aug. 13, 2024, 4:45 p.m.

TikTok's favorite comfy travel sneak is on sale at Amazon for $70, instead of $100. Get a pair in every color, if you have trips lined up for the next six months. Amazon/Dr. Scholl's/Canva

• Danielle Halibey | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Even if you’re not a nurse, flight attendant or teacher, you can still get a lot of mileage out of a good pair of walking shoes .

Fortunately, Amazon has TikTok’s favorite comfortable sneaker — which also happens to be the site’s #1 best-selling women’s fashion sneaker — on sale for 30% off, if you shop right now. Originally priced at $100, the ultra-flexible, lace-up pseudo platform is at a steal-worthy $70 price for the time being.

The low sale price extends to nearly every colorway, too, from neutral Oyster and smooth White to white with gold metallic accents . Many of the color options are eligible for free one to two-day shipping for Prime members, too.

With sustainable craftsmanship, including recycled materials and algae-infused foam insoles for added comfort, the company says these retro-inspired platform sneakers not only make a stylish statement but also give your feet the support and cushioning they deserve whether you’re traversing the airport on international travels, exploring a busy city on a solo adventure, strolling leisurely through a park, power walking on a track or just going back and forth to work.

Shop the $70 Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Sneaker deal on Amazon .

Amazon Sneaker Deals

And check out these other chic and comfortable sneaker deals, if you need to pad your collection!

• ALEADER Women’s Energycloud Lightweight Slip-On Walking Running Shoes for $37, instead of $43
• Skechers Men’s Go Walk Max Effort for $49, instead of $60
• Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Now Platform Slip-On Sneaker for $70, instead of $110

The best shopping deals of August

• Amazon has Hey Dude sneakers on sale for as low as $23
• Shop Alo Yoga’s best-selling leggings from $78 in the top end-of-summer colors
• Amazon has end-of-summer deals on Weber grills with up to 29% off
• Luxury Longchamp bags are $120 or less at Gilt right now, but they're going fast
• Amazon has the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones on sale for the same low price as Prime Day

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Danielle Halibey can be reached at [email protected] . Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips .

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