When it comes to travel, the right footwear can make or break your experience. Imagine exploring a bustling new city, captivated by its charm, only to be sidelined by aching feet or painful blisters. Comfortable Travel Shoes are not just a luxury; they are an essential investment in your journey, ensuring you can focus on the adventure rather than foot pain. At travels.edu.vn, we understand the importance of comfortable and practical travel gear. Our editors, seasoned travelers themselves, have personally tested numerous shoes across diverse destinations to bring you this curated guide to the most comfortable travel shoes. Whether you’re navigating cobblestone streets, hiking scenic trails, or simply spending long days on your feet, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our top picks for comfortable travel shoes, encompassing various styles from sneakers to sandals, boots to flats, ensuring you step into your next adventure with confidence and comfort.
Boots for Comfortable Travel
Boots offer excellent support and protection, making them ideal comfortable travel shoes for cooler climates and varied terrains. They provide ankle stability and often feature robust outsoles for enhanced traction. Here are some top boot choices that combine comfort and style for your travels.
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming Platform Chelsea Boots
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots
Susie Plotkin, from Condé Nast’s global email team, hails the Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots as her “perfect shoe” for travel. Having owned them for over three years, she attests to their versatility and comfort across diverse environments. From sightseeing in Zurich to traversing the canals of Venice and navigating the urban landscape of Brooklyn, these boots have been her steadfast companion. Despite their slightly heavier feel, the comfort they provide for all-day wear is undeniable, and their slip-on design adds to their practicality for travel.
Key Features:
- Pull-on Design: Effortless to put on and take off, ideal for airport security and quick changes.
- Cemented Sole: Durable construction for long-lasting wear and reliable support.
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea Boots
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots
Megan Spurrell, Associate Articles Director, champions the Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots for their blend of style and comfort. She specifically recommends styles with a wider toe box to maximize comfort during extensive walking. These Chelsea boots, with their robust lug sole, are particularly well-suited for city explorations. Their substantial build also means they can be worn through airport security, saving valuable suitcase space.
Key Features:
- Pull-on Style: Easy to wear and remove, enhancing convenience for travelers.
- Leather Upper: Durable and stylish, offering a sophisticated look.
- Solid Traction: Lug soles provide excellent grip on various city surfaces.
Casual Sneakers: Everyday Comfortable Travel Shoes
Casual sneakers are versatile and comfortable travel shoes, perfect for a wide range of activities, from city sightseeing to light hikes. They offer a blend of cushioning, support, and style, making them a staple in any travel wardrobe.
Adidas Samba OG Sneakers
Adidas Samba OG sneaker in black and white
The Adidas Samba OG sneakers, a timeless classic since 1950, have experienced a significant resurgence in street style popularity. Editorial assistant Kat Chen enthusiastically recommends them as her ultimate travel companion. She describes them as her “ride or die” shoes, having worn previous pairs for a decade until they wore out. These sneakers have been a constant in her life, providing comfort and style through countless adventures and everyday wear.
Key Features:
- Lace Closure: Provides a secure and adjustable fit.
- Leather Upper: Durable and stylish, offering a classic aesthetic.
- Rubber Outsole: Ensures good grip and traction for city walking.
- Half Sizes Available: Allows for a more precise and comfortable fit.
Check Price at Amazon (Men’s Sizes)
Check Price at Adidas (Women’s Sizes)
Kizik Milan Sneakers
Kizik Milan sneaker in navy blue
Commerce writer Paris Wilson is enthusiastic about Kizik Milan sneakers, stating she is “just getting started on my collection.” She appreciates the hands-free design, which offers the aesthetic of a traditional sneaker with the ease of a slip-on. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals of all ages, especially those who are often rushed, parents with young children, or those with back pain or mobility limitations. Wilson highlights the “chunky retro design” of the Milan, noting the “Naval Academy” colorway as versatile for color-blocking outfits. Available in both nylon and leather, she opted for the breathable nylon version for summer comfort but plans to acquire a leather pair for cooler weather. She has worn them extensively in various locations, including New York City, New Jersey, and Maine, and praises their ultra-cushioned foam insoles for providing all-day comfort.
Key Features:
- Hands-Free Design: Unique step-in feature for effortless wear, ideal comfortable travel shoes for ease and convenience.
- Half Sizes Available: Ensures a more tailored and comfortable fit.
- Removable Insoles: Allows for customization with orthotics or replacement insoles.
- Foam Midsole: Provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption for prolonged walking.
Check Price at Kizik (Women’s Sizes)
Check Price at Kizik (Men’s Sizes)
New Balance 574 Core Sneakers
New Balance 574 Core sneaker in grey and white
The New Balance 574 Core sneakers, part of the popular “cool dad shoes” trend, have made a significant comeback in style and comfort. Commerce editor Meaghan Kenny frequently chooses this style, praising their equal balance of comfort and style. She has owned them for approximately three years, taking them on weekend trips to Boston, airport travels, and daily office commutes. She highlights their versatility, noting they are “a perfect balance of sporty and stylish” and comfortable for hours of walking. Their neutral color palette ensures they complement a wide array of outfits, making them ideal comfortable travel shoes for packing light. Kenny also appreciates their surprising durability and cleanliness, despite their light hue.
Key Features:
- Half and Wide Sizes Available: Inclusive sizing options for a broader range of foot shapes.
- Suede and Mesh Upper: Combines durability with breathability for comfortable wear in various conditions.
Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers
Adidas Stan Smith sneaker in white and green
The Adidas Stan Smith sneaker has transitioned from its tennis shoe origins to become a streetwear icon, a testament to its enduring comfort and style. Associate editor Matt Ortile, a long-time devotee for at least eight years, emphasizes their exceptional comfort. He considers them ideal comfortable travel shoes, especially for short trips where packing space is limited. Their versatility allows them to handle sightseeing, light hikes, and airport transits with ease, all while maintaining a chic aesthetic without compromising on comfort. Ortile has taken them on diverse adventures, from the streets of Paris to the ancient sites of AlUla in Saudi Arabia and the jungles of Palau, highlighting their adaptability to various environments.
Key Features:
- Half Sizes Available: Ensures a more customized and comfortable fit.
- Lace Closure: Provides a secure and adjustable fit for different activities.
- OrthoLite Liner: Offers superior cushioning and temperature regulation, keeping feet comfortable and dry.
Check Price at Adidas (Men’s Sizes)
Check Price at Adidas (Women’s Sizes)
Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star Low Top Sneakers
Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star low stop sneaker in white and black
Commerce director Brie Schwartz, known for her recommendations in Glamour and Teen Vogue, suggests the Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star low top sneaker for a playful twist on a classic. This collaboration adds a touch of fun to your travel ensemble. These sneakers are lightweight due to their canvas upper and provide reliable traction with their vulcanized rubber sole. Schwartz recently wore them on a trip to Disney, highlighting their comfort for long days of walking.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Canvas Upper: Enhances breathability and reduces shoe weight, perfect for comfortable travel shoes.
- Vulcanized Rubber Sole: Provides solid traction and durability for various surfaces.
Athletic Shoes: Performance and Comfort for Active Travel
Athletic shoes are engineered for performance and comfort, making them excellent comfortable travel shoes for active itineraries, workouts on the go, or simply prioritizing all-day foot support.
Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers
Hoka Clifton 9 sneaker in blue and white
Meaghan Kenny affirms that Hoka sneakers live up to their reputation for comfort and performance. She acquired the Clifton 9s for running and workouts but found them to be exceptional everyday walking shoes as well. Despite their thick sole, which might suggest bulkiness, they are surprisingly lightweight and offer superior cushioning for hours of walking. Their packability is also a plus, fitting neatly into a weekender bag without adding excessive weight. Kenny has worn them for hiking in the Poconos, shopping trips, and moving days, consistently exceeding 10,000 steps with no foot discomfort. She considers them essential comfortable travel shoes for any type of trip due to their support, comfort, and versatility.
Key Features:
- Half and Wide Sizes Available: Inclusive sizing options for optimal fit.
- Gore-Tex Option Available: Provides waterproof and breathable protection for various weather conditions.
- Recycled Laces: Eco-conscious design element.
Check Price at Hoka (Women’s Sizes)
Check Price at Hoka (Men’s Sizes)
Salomon Speedcross 6 Trail Running Shoes
Salomon Speedcross 6 trail running shoe in black and red
Associate editor Charlie Hobbs is a dedicated wearer of Salomon Speedcross 6 shoes, using them for diverse activities from gym workouts to park outings and even raves. He jokingly admits needing to remind himself he owns other shoes. Their convenience is enhanced by the quick-lace system, eliminating the need for tying; a simple pull of the cord secures them. Hobbs emphasizes their exceptional comfort and ease of use.
Key Features:
- Half and Wide Sizes Available: Accommodating various foot shapes and sizes.
- Gore-Tex Option Available: Provides waterproof and breathable protection for varied weather conditions.
- Lightweight Design: At 10.5 ounces, these are comfortably lightweight for extended wear and travel.
- Quick-lace System: Ensures fast and secure adjustments, eliminating traditional laces.
Hoka Kawana Sneakers
Hoka Kawana sneaker in beige and pink
Hoka sneakers are a common sight in fitness classes and marathons, a testament to their popularity and performance. Senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle from Glamour favors the Hoka Kawana style. She wore these sneakers during a trip to San Antonio and found them to be a “lifesaver” for her feet, particularly in the Texas heat. Despite extensive walking and warm temperatures, she noted their bouncy and breathable nature kept her feet comfortable and fatigue-free.
Key Features:
- Half Sizes Available: Ensures a more precise and comfortable fit.
- Pull Tab at Heel: Facilitates easy on and off.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing just 8.9 ounces, they are exceptionally light for all-day comfort.
- Breathable Construction: Keeps feet cool and dry, ideal for warm climates and active travel.
On Cloudmonster Sneakers
On Cloudmonster sneaker in white and green
Also recommended by Jenifer Calle, On Cloudmonster sneakers are renowned for their maximum cushioning and energy return. They feature the brand’s thickest layer of CloudTec, designed to reduce muscle fatigue and enhance comfort. Calle, while not a dedicated runner, appreciates their performance for steady jogs. Transitioning from older Nike sneakers, she found On shoes provided remarkable relief and support during runs. She particularly likes the rocker bottoms, which she feels provide an extra push during her jogs, making them superior to minimalist sneakers.
Key Features:
- Half Sizes Available: Ensures a more tailored and comfortable fit.
- Maximum Cushioning: Offers superior comfort and shock absorption for high-impact activities.
- Designed for Energy Return: Enhances performance and reduces fatigue during prolonged activity.
Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes
Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe in brown
The Merrell Moab 3 is recognized as the world’s most popular hiking shoe, with over 25 million pairs sold since its introduction 15 years ago. Editor Flager tested the third-generation model on a trip to Iceland, experiencing moderate hikes and city walks on wet surfaces. The shoe performed well in both scenarios, providing excellent traction and comfort. Its packability is also noted, fitting well in carry-on luggage. Commerce writer Jake Smith from Glamour has been a fan for four years, appreciating them not only for hiking but also as comfortable walking shoes for everyday use.
Key Features:
- Half and Wide Sizes Available: Inclusive sizing for various foot shapes.
- Made for Rugged Trails: Durable construction and outsole for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Protective Toe Cap: Adds extra protection against impacts and trail debris.
Check Price at Merrell (Men’s Sizes)
Check Price at Merrell (Women’s Sizes)
Slip-On Shoes: Convenience and Comfort for Travel
Slip-on shoes are the epitome of convenience, ideal comfortable travel shoes for easy transitions through airports, quick errands, or relaxed sightseeing days. They prioritize ease of wear without sacrificing comfort.
Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes
Kane Revive active recovery shoe in grey
Emma McDonald, from Condé Nast’s digital marketing team, recommends Kane Revive active recovery shoes, particularly for their comfort during extended periods of standing or light activity. She has used them for a year at her standing desk and for running errands. These shoes are made from Brazilian sugarcane and feature cushioned footbeds with raised nodes designed to stimulate blood flow at key pressure points on the soles of the feet, promoting recovery and comfort.
Key Features:
- Quick-Drying: Ideal for humid climates or unexpected wet conditions during travel.
- Easy to Clean: Simplifies maintenance and keeps shoes fresh during travels.
- Grippy Soles: Enhances traction and stability on various surfaces.
- Active Recovery Footbed: Designed to promote foot health and reduce fatigue.
SeaVees Bodega Clogs
SeaVees Bodega clog in black
Glamour‘s commerce editor Malia Griggs is a fan of SeaVees Bodega clogs, initially considering them solely as rain boots but finding them versatile for everyday wear. Their slip-on ease, comfort, and suitability for drizzly weather make them a practical choice for city explorations. Griggs wore them during a week in the North Carolina mountains, appreciating their convenience as “plane shoes” for airport security and their durability and water resistance for light trails. She values the slight heel backing that prevents them from slipping off while walking.
Key Features:
- Memory Foam Footbed: Provides exceptional cushioning and comfort for all-day wear.
- Partially Recycled Materials: Eco-friendly construction.
- Waterproof and Durable: Suitable for wet conditions and light outdoor activities.
Sabah Slip-Ons
Sabah slip-on shoes in various colors
Articles director Lale Arikoglu highly recommends Sabah slip-ons, considering them a “permanent fixture on my packing list” for years. Available in numerous colors and materials like soft leather or suede, they are handcrafted by artisans at the Sabah Workshop in Gaziantep. Arikoglu describes their fit as improving with wear, molding to the feet for a custom-like feel. She highlights their exceptional comfort and craftsmanship.
Key Features:
- Handmade Craftsmanship: Ensures high quality and unique detailing.
- Soft Leather Lining: Provides luxurious comfort and breathability.
- Replaceable Rubber Outsole: Extends the lifespan of the shoes and enhances durability.
- Wide Color Selection: Offers diverse style options to match any travel wardrobe.
Sandals: Breathable and Comfortable Travel Shoes for Warm Weather
Sandals are essential comfortable travel shoes for warm destinations, offering breathability and freedom. Choosing supportive sandals is key for long walks and explorations.
Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks
Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks in brown
Former Traveler editor Sarah Ratner endorses classic Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks for comfortable sandal wear, even for extended periods. Their suede-covered cork-latex footbed molds to the wearer’s foot over time, providing personalized support. The Arizona slides are available in a wide array of colors and in regular or narrow widths to accommodate different foot shapes. Their versatile style makes them easy to pair with various outfits. Lale Arikoglu also vouches for Birkenstocks, specifically the Arizona Big Buckle style, having walked 10 miles in Barcelona without any discomfort.
Key Features:
- Cork-Latex Footbed: Provides anatomical support and molds to the foot for custom comfort.
- Adjustable Straps: Allows for a personalized and secure fit.
- Wide Range of Colors and Widths: Offers diverse style and fit options.
Teva Universal Trail Sandals
Teva Universal Trail Sandals in grey
Teva sandals inspire long-term loyalty among their wearers. These sandals are highly versatile and suitable for various occasions. The author has worn them for light hikes in Arizona, sightseeing in Israel, swimming in Austin’s rocky reservoirs, and multi-city trips. The Universal Trail sandals offer enhanced arch support compared to the classic style, making them even more comfortable for both urban and trail environments. Having owned them for five years, the author attests to their exceptional comfort and blister-free wear, making them ideal comfortable travel shoes for warm climates and active days.
Key Features:
- Adjustable Straps: Provides a customizable and secure fit.
- Waterproof Construction: Suitable for water activities and humid conditions.
- Grippy Outsoles: Ensures traction on varied terrains, from city streets to trails.
- Recycled Materials: Eco-conscious design, incorporating recycled materials in construction.
Check Price at REI (Women’s Sizes)
Check Price at REI (Men’s Sizes)
Teva Midform Universal Sandals
Teva Midform Universal Sandals in black
These Teva Midform Universal sandals are another favored choice of Megan Spurrell for the past four years. While slightly less grippy than the Trail sandals, they still provide ample comfort for all-day wear. Spurrell frequently wears them to the beach but also for bike rides, long walks, and even dinners in New York City, showcasing their versatility and value as comfortable travel shoes for diverse activities and packing needs.
Key Features:
- 1.25″ Platform: Adds a subtle lift while maintaining comfort and walkability.
- Quick-Dry Material: Ideal for water activities and warm climates, ensuring fast drying times.
- Rubber Outsole for Traction: Provides reliable grip on various surfaces.
Flats: Stylish and Packable Comfortable Travel Shoes
Flats are a chic and compact footwear option, perfect comfortable travel shoes for dressing up outfits while maintaining comfort and packability.
Rothy’s The Point II Flats
Rothy's The Point II flats in red
While Rothy’s offers a classic ballet flat, The Point Flat offers a more refined and sophisticated aesthetic. Available in a wide spectrum of colors, from vibrant reds to deep emeralds, there’s a shade to complement every traveler’s style and wardrobe. Rothy’s shoes are crafted from recycled plastic using a zero-waste manufacturing process similar to Suav. The Point flats have been recently enhanced for greater comfort with a more cushioned insole and a roomier toe box. Travel writer Terry Ward, based in Florida, praises Rothy’s flats for their ability to instantly elevate any outfit, their packability without losing shape, and their long-lasting durability, deeming them a worthwhile investment for comfortable and stylish travel footwear.
Key Features:
- Machine Washable: Easy to clean and maintain freshness during travel.
- Removable Cushiony Insole: Provides enhanced comfort and allows for customization.
- Made of Recycled Materials: Eco-conscious and sustainable footwear choice.
- Wide Range of Colors: Offers versatile styling options for various outfits.
Step into Comfort on Your Next Trip
Choosing the right comfortable travel shoes is a crucial step in preparing for any journey. From boots providing robust support to sneakers offering everyday versatility, slip-ons for convenience, sandals for warm climates, and flats for stylish occasions, there’s a perfect pair for every travel style and destination. Prioritize comfort and support to fully enjoy your explorations, ensuring foot pain doesn’t detract from your travel experiences. Invest in a pair of these editor-recommended comfortable travel shoes and make every step of your adventure a pleasure.
