When it comes to travel, packing the right shoes can make or break your experience. Exploring new cities, hiking scenic trails, or simply navigating airports – your feet are your primary mode of transportation. Uncomfortable footwear can lead to blisters, pain, and ultimately, a less enjoyable trip. That’s why we, as travel experts at travels.edu.vn, have curated a list of the coolest and most comfortable travel shoes, blending style and practicality for every kind of adventure. Based on real-world testing by travel editors, this guide showcases top picks that will keep you stepping comfortably and stylishly, no matter where your travels take you.
FAQ:
How We Test Travel Shoes
Our recommendations aren’t just based on looks. We rigorously test travel shoes, ensuring they live up to the demands of travel. Some shoes featured here are long-time favorites of our editors, worn on countless personal trips and work assignments. Others are specifically tested for this article. Every shoe on this list has been worn extensively by a travel expert, guaranteeing all-day comfort and durability. We look for shoes that can withstand miles of walking, various terrains, and still look good doing it.
What to Consider When Buying Cool Travel Shoes
Before you invest in a new pair of travel shoes, consider these key factors. Comfort is paramount: look for cushioning and support. Versatility is also crucial, as luggage space is precious. Choose shoes that can transition from sightseeing to dinner without looking out of place. Think about your typical travel wardrobe. Do you prefer neutral tones or bold colors? Your shoe choice should complement your clothing. Finally, consider your itinerary and the climate. Closed-toe shoes or boots are better for rainy destinations, while sandals or breathable sneakers are ideal for warmer climates and beach trips. The perfect cool travel shoe balances comfort, style, and practicality for any journey.
Top Picks for Cool Travel Shoes
Boots
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming Platform Chelsea Boots: These platform Chelsea boots are the epitome of cool meets comfort. Condé Nast’s global email team member, Susie Plotkin, swears by their versatility and durability. Having owned them for over three years, she’s explored cities worldwide in them, from Zurich to Venice, and even her Brooklyn neighborhood. Despite their slightly heavy feel, they offer exceptional comfort for long days of walking and are effortlessly stylish. The platform adds a fashionable edge, making them cool travel shoes that stand out.
Key features: Pull-on style, cemented sole.
Buy at Dr. Martens
Buy at Amazon
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Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea Boots: Megan Spurrell, Associate Articles Director, recommends Vagabond’s Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots for their blend of style and comfort. She suggests opting for a wider toe box to maximize comfort during extensive walking. These boots are ideal for city explorations. Their bulkier design makes them perfect for wearing through airport security, saving suitcase space. The lug sole adds a trendy touch, solidifying their place as cool travel shoes for urban adventurers.
Key features: Pull-on style, leather upper, solid traction.
Casual Sneakers
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Adidas Samba OG Sneakers: Adidas Sambas, with their retro charm, have made a significant comeback as a street style staple. Editorial assistant Kat Chen enthusiastically recommends them as her ultimate go-to shoes. She’s worn a pair for a decade, highlighting their longevity and timeless appeal. These sneakers are not only comfortable and durable but also incredibly stylish, making them perfect cool travel shoes for those who appreciate a vintage aesthetic.
Key features: Lace-up closure, leather upper, rubber outsole, available in half sizes.
Buy at Amazon (men’s sizes)
Buy at Adidas (women’s sizes)
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Kizik Milan Sneakers: Commerce writer Paris Wilson is a recent convert to Kizik sneakers, appreciating their hands-free design that combines the look of a traditional sneaker with the ease of a slip-on. The Milan model has a trendy, chunky retro aesthetic and comes in various materials, including breathable nylon and leather. Wilson praises their comfort, highlighting the ultra-cushioned foam insoles. These are cool travel shoes that offer both convenience and a fashionable retro vibe, ideal for busy travelers or those seeking easy-to-wear footwear.
Key features: Hands-free design, half sizes available, removable insoles, foam midsole.
Buy at Kizik (women’s sizes)
Buy at Kizik (men’s sizes)
New Balance 574 Core Sneakers: New Balance sneakers are experiencing a major resurgence in popularity, and the 574 Core model is a favorite of commerce editor Meaghan Kenny. She describes them as both comfortable and cool, praising their versatility and neutral color that complements various outfits. These sneakers are a perfect blend of sporty and stylish, making them cool travel shoes that are ideal for city walks, airport travel, and everyday wear. Their enduring style and comfort make them a reliable and fashionable choice for any traveler.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, suede and mesh upper.
Buy at Amazon
Buy at New Balance
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Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers: The Adidas Stan Smith sneaker has transitioned from a tennis shoe to a streetwear icon for good reason. They are incredibly comfortable and versatile, making them a favorite among Traveler editors. Associate editor Matt Ortile has been wearing them for eight years, replacing his pairs regularly due to wear and tear. These shoes are effortlessly cool travel shoes, suitable for sightseeing, light hikes, and navigating airports with ease and style. Their minimalist design and enduring comfort make them a travel wardrobe essential.
Key features: Half sizes available, lace closure, OrthoLite liner for temperature regulation.
Buy at Adidas (men’s sizes)
Buy at Adidas (women’s sizes)
Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star Low Top Sneakers: Recommended by Glamour and Teen Vogue commerce director Brie Schwartz, these Converse sneakers offer a playful twist on a classic design. The iconic heart-and-eyes logo adds a touch of whimsy and style. Lightweight and comfortable due to their canvas upper and vulcanized rubber sole, they provide good traction. These are cool travel shoes for adding personality to your travel outfits, perfect for casual sightseeing and exploring urban destinations like Disney parks.
Key features: Lightweight canvas upper, vulcanized rubber sole for traction.
Athletic Shoes
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Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers: Hoka sneakers live up to their reputation for comfort, and the Clifton 9s are a testament to this. Meaghan Kenny finds them perfect for both workouts and everyday walking. Despite their thick sole, they are surprisingly lightweight and comfortable for hours of wear. These sneakers are not just practical but also have a modern, sporty aesthetic. Hoka Clifton 9s are cool travel shoes that deliver on both performance and style, making them ideal for active travelers.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, Gore-Tex option, recycled laces.
Buy at Hoka (women’s sizes)
Buy at Hoka (men’s sizes)
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Salomon Speedcross 6: Associate editor Charlie Hobbs highly recommends Salomon Speedcross 6 for their all-around performance and convenience. Their quick-lace system eliminates the need for tying, making them incredibly easy to wear. Comfortable and practical for various activities, from gym workouts to city explorations, they are versatile cool travel shoes. Their sporty design and ease of use make them a great choice for travelers who value both style and functionality.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, Gore-Tex option, lightweight.
Hoka Kawana Sneakers: Hoka Kawana sneakers are another excellent choice from the brand, praised by Glamour‘s senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle. She found them to be a “lifesaver” during a trip to San Antonio, highlighting their breathability and bouncy cushioning, even in Texas heat. These sneakers are not only comfortable and practical but also come in stylish colorways. Hoka Kawana are cool travel shoes that provide both comfort and a touch of sporty style, perfect for warm-weather travels and active days.
Key features: Half sizes available, pull tab at heel, lightweight.
On Cloudmonster Sneakers: On Cloudmonster sneakers are designed for maximum cushioning and energy return, making them ideal for both running and walking long distances. Jenifer Calle also recommends these, highlighting their rocker bottom design which aids in forward motion and reduces foot fatigue. While designed for running, their comfort and distinctive look make them cool travel shoes for those who want a blend of athletic performance and modern style.
Key features: Half sizes available, maximum cushioning, high energy return.
Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes: The Merrell Moab 3 is renowned as a top hiking shoe globally, and for good reason. Tested by our editors on varied terrains, including Iceland’s trails and city streets, they proved to be reliable and comfortable. Commerce writer Jake Smith from Glamour also vouches for their comfort as walking shoes, even beyond hiking. Merrell Moab 3s are cool travel shoes for adventurous trips, providing excellent traction and durability while remaining stylish enough for everyday wear.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, rugged trail design, protective toe cap.
Buy at Merrell (men’s sizes)
Buy at Merrell (women’s sizes)
Slip-ons
Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes: For ultimate comfort and recovery, Kane Revive active recovery shoes are recommended by Emma McDonald from Condé Nast’s digital marketing team. These cushiony slip-ons are designed for all-day wear, promoting blood flow with raised footbed nodes. Made from Brazilian sugarcane, they are also eco-friendly. Kane Revive shoes are cool travel shoes for relaxation and recovery after long travel days, offering a unique blend of comfort and sustainability.
Key features: Quick-drying, easy to clean, grippy soles.
SeaVees Bodega Clogs: Glamour‘s commerce editor Malia Griggs is a fan of SeaVees Bodega clogs, finding them surprisingly versatile beyond just rain boots. Easy to slip on, comfortable, and water-resistant, they are perfect for drizzly days and travel. Their stylish clog design makes them cool travel shoes for a casual yet chic look, suitable for city strolls and light trails alike.
Key features: Memory foam footbed, partially recycled materials.
Sabah Slip-ons: Sabah slip-ons are a long-time favorite travel shoe for articles director Lale Arikoglu. Handmade and available in various colors and materials, they mold to your feet for a custom fit. These slip-ons are not only incredibly comfortable but also stylish and unique, making them cool travel shoes for those who appreciate handcrafted quality and distinctive design.
Key features: Handmade, soft leather lining, replaceable rubber outsole.
Sandals
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Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks: Birkenstocks Arizona slides are a timeless choice for comfortable travel sandals. Former Traveler editor Sarah Ratner vouches for their suede-covered cork-latex footbed that molds to your feet over time. Available in numerous colors and sizes, they are versatile and easy to pair with various outfits. Birkenstocks are cool travel shoes that provide both iconic style and exceptional comfort, perfect for warm climates and casual travel.
Key features: Cork-latex footbed, adjustable straps.
Buy at Birkenstock
Buy at Zappos
Teva Universal Trail Sandals: Teva Universal Trail sandals are a favorite for their comfort and versatility. Ideal for various activities from light hikes to city sightseeing, these sandals offer excellent arch support and durability. Their practical yet stylish design makes them cool travel shoes for adventurous travelers who need footwear that can handle diverse terrains and weather conditions.
Key features: Adjustable straps, waterproof, grippy outsoles, recycled materials.
Buy at REI (women’s sizes)
Buy at REI (men’s sizes)
Teva Midform Universal Sandals: Another Teva favorite, the Midform Universal sandals offer a slightly elevated platform for added style without compromising comfort. Associate editor Spurrell recommends these for their versatility, wearing them from beaches to city dinners. Teva Midform Universal sandals are cool travel shoes that bridge the gap between casual and slightly dressier footwear, making them a stylish and practical choice for various travel occasions.
Key features: Platform sole, quick-dry material, rubber outsole for traction.
Flats
Rothy’s The Point II Flats: For a sophisticated and comfortable flat, Rothy’s The Point II is an excellent choice. With a pointed-toe design that is more elegant than classic ballet flats, they come in a wide array of colors to match any travel wardrobe. Made from recycled plastic and machine washable, they are both eco-conscious and practical. Rothy’s The Point II flats are cool travel shoes for adding a touch of polish to your outfits while maintaining all-day comfort.
Key features: Machine washable, removable cushiony insole, recycled materials.
Buy at Rothy’s
Buy at Nordstrom
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
