Of all the essentials you pack for a trip, Good Travel Shoes are arguably the most crucial. Imagine exploring a vibrant new city, only to have your adventure cut short by painful blisters or aching feet. The discomfort of unsuitable footwear can quickly turn a dream vacation into a miserable experience. That’s why travels.edu.vn‘s team of travel experts has dedicated countless miles and trips to finding the most comfortable and stylish walking shoes for every type of traveler.
We understand the importance of footwear that can keep up with your travel itinerary, whether you’re navigating cobblestone streets, hiking scenic trails, or simply spending long days on your feet sightseeing. Our editors have personally tested and worn the shoes featured below on numerous vacations and work trips across diverse destinations. We’ve curated a selection that includes various styles to suit your needs and preferences, from versatile sneakers and sturdy boots to breezy sandals and elegant flats.
This guide will walk you through our top recommendations for good travel shoes, ensuring you can explore the world in comfort and style.
Finding Your Perfect Travel Shoes: Key Considerations
Before diving into our top picks, let’s address some frequently asked questions and essential factors to consider when choosing your good travel shoes.
How We Test Travel Shoes
Our recommendations aren’t based on guesswork. Many of the shoes featured are long-time favorites of our editors, shoes they’ve relied on for years of travel. Others have been specifically tested for this article. Each pair has been rigorously worn by an editor on multiple occasions, ensuring they meet our standards for all-day comfort and travel practicality. We look for shoes that can withstand miles of walking, diverse terrains, and varying weather conditions. Our goal is to recommend shoes you can confidently wear from morning until night, no matter your travel itinerary.
What to Consider Before Buying Good Travel Shoes
Choosing the right good travel shoes involves more than just picking a stylish pair. Here are key aspects to keep in mind:
- Comfort is King: Prioritize cushioning and support. Look for shoes with good arch support, padded insoles, and materials that minimize friction to prevent blisters.
- Versatility is Key: Packing light is essential for most travelers. Choose shoes that can transition seamlessly from daytime sightseeing to evening dinners. Consider neutral colors and classic styles that can complement various outfits. Think about your typical travel wardrobe and select shoe colors that will easily coordinate. A pop of color in your shoes can be a great way to add personality if you tend to wear neutral clothing, while black, white, or brown shoes are more versatile if your wardrobe is already colorful.
- Activity and Climate: Match your shoes to your planned activities and destination’s climate. Closed-toe sneakers or boots are ideal for rainy or colder destinations and active pursuits. Sandals or flats might be better suited for warm, dry climates and more relaxed itineraries. If you’re heading to the beach, consider water-friendly sandals like Tevas.
- Packability: Travel shoes shouldn’t take up excessive space or weight in your luggage. Consider lighter-weight options and whether the shoes can be easily packed.
Top Picks for Good Travel Shoes
Now, let’s explore our editor-approved good travel shoes, categorized by style to help you find the perfect fit for your travel needs.
Boots
For cooler climates or destinations that require more robust footwear, boots can be excellent good travel shoes. They offer ankle support, protection from the elements, and can be surprisingly comfortable for walking.
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming Platform Chelsea Boots
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots
Susie Plotkin from Condé Nast’s global email team hails these platform boots as “the perfect shoe.” With over three years of travel under their belt, these boots have accompanied her everywhere from city streets to European adventures. “They’re my go-to for sightseeing in Zurich and Venice, and just as comfortable for stomping around Brooklyn. While a bit weighty, they are incredibly comfortable and easy to slip on and off,” Plotkin notes. Their durability and style make them excellent good travel shoes for urban exploration in various weather conditions.
Key features: Pull-on style, cemented sole, durable construction.
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea Boots
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots
Megan Spurrell, Associate Articles Director, recommends Vagabond’s Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots for city adventures. She suggests opting for a wider toe box for enhanced comfort during long walks. These Chelsea boots, while substantial, are perfect good travel shoes for urban exploration. Their lug sole provides excellent traction, and they are stylish enough for city outings. To save suitcase space and weight, Spurrell advises wearing bulkier boots like these through airport security.
Key features: Pull-on style, leather upper, solid traction, lug sole.
Casual Sneakers
Casual sneakers are incredibly versatile good travel shoes, ideal for everyday sightseeing, city walks, and even light activities. They combine comfort with style and are easy to pack.
Adidas Samba OG Sneakers
Adidas Samba OG sneaker
Adidas Sambas, a classic since 1950, have experienced a recent surge in popularity. Kat Chen, Editorial Assistant, enthusiastically recommends them: “These are my ride or die shoes. I’ve worn Sambas for a decade, and this newest pair is just as reliable and comfortable. They’ve been with me through thick and thin.” Their timeless style and all-day comfort make Adidas Samba OG sneakers excellent good travel shoes for travelers of all ages.
Key features: Lace closure, leather upper, rubber outsole, available in half sizes.
Check price at Amazon (men’s sizes)
Check price at Adidas (women’s sizes)
Kizik Milan Sneakers
Kizik Milan sneaker
Commerce Writer Paris Wilson is a new but enthusiastic convert to Kizik sneakers, particularly the Milan model. She praises the hands-free design, blending the look of a sneaker with the convenience of a slip-on. This design is especially beneficial for those with mobility limitations or anyone seeking ease and speed. “The Milan boasts a trendy retro aesthetic,” Wilson explains. “The cushioned foam insoles ensure all-day comfort. I’ve worn them everywhere from New York City to Maine and have never had foot discomfort.” Kizik Milan sneakers are excellent good travel shoes for comfort and ease, especially for navigating airports and busy travel days.
Key features: Hands-free design, half sizes available, removable insoles, foam midsole.
Check price at Kizik (women’s sizes)
Check price at Kizik (men’s sizes)
New Balance 574 Core Sneakers
New Balance 574 Core sneaker
New Balance sneakers are back in style, and the 574 Core model is a favorite of Commerce Editor Meaghan Kenny. She describes them as “just as comfortable as they are cool.” Having owned them for three years, Kenny has taken them on weekend trips, airport runs, and daily commutes. “They strike the perfect balance between sporty and stylish. They are comfortable for hours of walking, and the neutral color complements my travel wardrobe. They are my most worn shoes next to classic white sneakers and surprisingly easy to keep clean.” New Balance 574 Core sneakers are excellent good travel shoes for everyday comfort and style.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, suede and mesh upper, classic design.
Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers
Adidas Stan Smith sneaker
The Adidas Stan Smith has transitioned from a tennis shoe to a streetwear icon for good reason: exceptional comfort. Associate Editor Matt Ortile, a loyal wearer for eight years, states, “They’re so comfortable, I never want to take them off. They are my go-to for short trips when I can only pack one pair of shoes. From sightseeing to light hikes, airport security to chic city looks, they handle everything with comfort and style.” Adidas Stan Smith sneakers are classic good travel shoes known for their enduring comfort and style.
Key features: Half sizes available, lace closure, OrthoLite liner for temperature regulation, iconic style.
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
Brie Schwartz, Commerce Director at Glamour and Teen Vogue, recommends these playful Converse sneakers. This collaboration adds a fun twist to the classic Converse low-top, perfect for injecting personality into your travel outfits. “These sneakers are lightweight and comfortable, thanks to the canvas upper and vulcanized rubber sole which provides good traction,” Schwartz notes. She recently wore them on a trip to Disney, proving their suitability as good travel shoes for theme parks and active days.
Key features: Lightweight canvas upper, vulcanized rubber sole for traction, iconic design with playful twist.
Athletic Shoes
For travelers prioritizing performance and maximum comfort, athletic shoes are excellent good travel shoes. They are designed for support, cushioning, and breathability, making them ideal for long days of walking and active travel.
Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers
Hoka Clifton 9 sneaker
Meaghan Kenny is a firm believer in the hype surrounding Hokas, especially the Clifton 9 model. “I initially got these for running and workouts, but they’ve become my most worn walking shoes. Despite the thick sole, they are surprisingly lightweight and incredibly comfortable for hours of walking. They are supportive, comfortable, versatile, and a must-pack for every trip type.” Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers are outstanding good travel shoes for those who prioritize ultimate comfort and support.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, Gore-Tex option, recycled laces, maximum cushioning.
Check price at Hoka (women’s sizes)
Check price at Hoka (men’s sizes)
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon Speedcross 6
Associate Editor Charlie Hobbs is a devoted fan of Salomon Speedcross 6, wearing them for everything from gym workouts to outdoor adventures. “I wear these shoes everywhere. They are incredibly comfortable and convenient with the quick-pull cord instead of laces.” Their comfort, ease of use, and versatility make Salomon Speedcross 6 excellent good travel shoes for active travelers.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, Gore-Tex option, quick-pull lace system, lightweight.
Hoka Kawana Sneakers
beige/pink sneakers
Senior Commerce Editor at Glamour, Jenifer Calle, recommends the Hoka Kawana for its exceptional comfort and breathability. “I wore these in San Antonio, and they were a lifesaver in the Texas heat. They are bouncy and breathable, keeping my feet comfortable and sweat-free even with extensive walking.” Hoka Kawana sneakers are excellent good travel shoes for warm climates and long days on your feet.
Key features: Half sizes available, pull tab at heel, lightweight, breathable design.
On Cloudmonster Sneakers
white and green sneakers
Another recommendation from Jenifer Calle, On Cloudmonster sneakers boast maximum cushioning and energy return. “Even though I’m not a runner, I love these for my jogs. The rocker bottoms feel like they give me an extra push, and my feet feel incredibly relieved while running in these compared to my old Nike sneakers. I’m never going back to minimalist sneakers.” On Cloudmonster sneakers are excellent good travel shoes for those seeking maximum cushioning and support, even for walking and everyday wear.
Key features: Half sizes available, maximum cushioning, designed for energy return, rocker bottom sole.
Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Shoes
Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe
Known as the world’s most popular hiking shoe, the Merrell Moab 3 is a reliable and comfortable option. Our editor, Flager, tested them on a trip to Iceland, confirming their suitability for both hiking and city walking. “They have great traction, fit comfortably, and are relatively packable. I see why they are so popular.” Glamour Commerce Writer Jake Smith also praises them as excellent walking shoes, even outside of hiking. Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoes are versatile good travel shoes for travelers who anticipate varied terrains and activities.
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, designed for rugged trails, protective toe cap, excellent traction.
Check price at Merrell (men’s sizes)
Check price at Merrell (women’s sizes)
Slip-Ons
Slip-on shoes offer unmatched convenience and comfort, making them great good travel shoes for easy days, airport travel, and quick errands.
Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoes
Kane Revive active recovery shoe
Emma McDonald from Condé Nast’s digital marketing team recommends Kane Revive recovery shoes for all-day comfort. “I’ve used them for a year at my standing desk and for running errands. The cushiony sugarcane material and footbed design promote blood flow and comfort.” Kane Revive active recovery shoes are excellent good travel shoes for relaxation and casual wear, especially after long travel days.
Key features: Quick-drying, easy to clean, grippy soles, made from Brazilian sugarcane, cushioned footbed.
SeaVees Bodega Clogs
SeaVees Bodega clog
Glamour‘s Commerce Editor Malia Griggs is a fan of SeaVees Bodega clogs. “I initially thought they were just rain boots, but I wear them constantly. They are easy to slip on, comfortable, and perfect for drizzly days in the city. They are also great for plane travel and durable enough for light trails.” SeaVees Bodega clogs are versatile good travel shoes for wet weather and easy slip-on convenience.
Key features: Memory foam footbed, partially recycled materials, waterproof, easy slip-on style.
Sabah Slip-ons
Sabah Slip-ons
Articles Director Lale Arikoglu highly recommends Sabah slip-ons, calling them “a permanent fixture on my packing list.” Handmade and available in various colors and materials, they mold to your feet over time for a custom fit. “The more I wear them, the better they fit, almost as if they were designed just for me.” Sabah slip-ons are stylish and comfortable good travel shoes, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your travel wardrobe.
Key features: Handmade, soft leather lining, replaceable rubber outsole, customizable fit over time.
Sandals
For warm weather travel, sandals are essential good travel shoes. Look for supportive sandals that can handle walking and various terrains.
Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks
Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks
Former Traveler editor Sarah Ratner swears by classic Birkenstock Arizona sandals. “The suede-covered cork-latex footbed molds to your feet over time. They come in many colors and widths, and match almost any outfit.” Lale Arikoglu also endorses Birkenstocks, stating, “I walked 10 miles in Barcelona in my Birkenstocks without any rubbing.” Arizona Birkenstock sandals are timeless and comfortable good travel shoes for warm weather and casual travel.
Key features: Cork-latex footbed, adjustable straps, classic design, available in regular and narrow widths.
Teva Universal Trail Sandals
grey sandals
Tevas are a travel footwear staple for many, and our editor is no exception. “I’ve worn Teva Universal Trail sandals on light hikes, sightseeing, swimming, and multi-city trips. The Trail sandals offer excellent arch support and are incredibly comfortable for both city and trail walking. I’ve owned them for five years and never gotten a blister.” Teva Universal Trail sandals are durable and comfortable good travel shoes for active warm-weather travel.
Key features: Adjustable straps, waterproof, grippy outsoles, made with recycled materials, enhanced arch support.
Check price at REI (women’s sizes)
Check price at REI (men’s sizes)
Teva Midform Universal Sandals
black sandals
Another Teva favorite, the Midform Universal sandals are endorsed by Megan Spurrell for their versatility and comfort. “These Tevas are slightly less grippy than the Trail sandals but still comfortable for all-day wear. I wear them to the beach, for bike rides, walks, and even dinners in New York – they are incredibly versatile for travel.” Teva Midform Universal sandals are stylish and comfortable good travel shoes for everyday warm-weather wear and light activities.
Key features: 1.25″ platform, quick-dry material, rubber outsole for traction, versatile style.
Flats
Flats can be elegant and comfortable good travel shoes, especially for city travel, dinners, and occasions where you want a more polished look without sacrificing comfort.
Rothy’s The Point II Flats
Rothy's The Point II flats
Rothy’s Point II flats offer sophisticated style and travel-friendly features. Travel writer Terry Ward praises them: “They instantly elevate any outfit, pack flat in a suitcase without losing shape, and are incredibly durable. They are worth the investment.” Made from recycled plastic and machine washable, Rothy’s Point II flats are practical and stylish good travel shoes.
Key features: Machine washable, removable cushioned insole, made of recycled materials, stylish pointed-toe design.
Conclusion: Step into Your Next Adventure with the Right Travel Shoes
Choosing the right good travel shoes is an investment in your travel experience. Comfortable and supportive footwear allows you to fully enjoy your adventures without foot pain holding you back. Whether you prefer sneakers, boots, sandals, slip-ons, or flats, our curated list offers top-rated options tested and approved by travel experts. Consider your destination, activities, and personal style to select the perfect good travel shoes that will accompany you on countless memorable journeys. Happy travels, and happy walking!
