When it comes to travel essentials, comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. As travel experts at travels.edu.vn, we understand that the right footwear can make or break your travel experience. Imagine exploring a new city, your feet happy and blister-free, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds. Conversely, the wrong shoes can lead to discomfort, pain, and ultimately, a less enjoyable trip. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to finding the Best Travel Shoes, rigorously tested and editor-approved, to ensure your travels are as comfortable as they are memorable.
We’ve personally tested countless pairs of shoes across various destinations and travel scenarios. Our selection includes versatile styles, from sneakers and boots to sandals and flats, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every traveler and itinerary.
Scroll through our top picks for the best travel shoes, or jump directly to the category that interests you:
FAQ:
How we test
Our recommendations are based on real-world experience. Some shoes have been long-time favorites of our editors, worn for years on personal trips. Others are specifically tested for our articles. Every shoe on this list has been worn by an editor multiple times, at minimum, and meets our crucial criteria: all-day comfort. We look for shoes that you can confidently wear from morning sightseeing to evening dinners without a second thought about foot pain.
What to consider before buying
Before investing in new travel shoes, consider a few key factors. Comfort is paramount – look for cushioning and support. Versatility is also crucial. Packing light is essential for most trips, so choose shoes that can transition seamlessly from day explorations to evening outings.
Think about your typical travel wardrobe. Neutral-colored shoes like black, white, or brown offer maximum versatility, complementing a wide range of outfits. However, if you tend to wear neutral clothes, a pop of color in your footwear can add personality to your travel style.
Your itinerary and destination climate are also important. For rainy destinations or colder weather, opt for closed-toe sneakers or boots. Beach trips might call for sandals or water-friendly shoes like Tevas.
Top picks
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Boots
For destinations with cooler climates or cityscapes that demand a bit more style, travel boots are an excellent choice. Here are some of the best travel boots that combine comfort and fashion:
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots for comfortable travel
Susie Plotkin, from Condé Nast’s global email team, raves about these platform boots as “the perfect shoe” for travel. Having owned them for over three and a half years, she’s explored numerous destinations with them. “They’re my go-to for sightseeing in Zurich, visiting my boyfriend in Switzerland. I’ve walked for 12 hours in Venice with them, and they are a staple for everyday wear in Brooklyn. Though a bit heavy, they are incredibly comfortable and easy to slip on and off, making them ideal travel shoes.”
Key features: Pull-on style, cemented sole
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots comfortable for city travel
Megan Spurrell, Associate articles director, is a fan of Vagabond’s lug sole boots, particularly recommending styles with a wider toe box for enhanced comfort during long walking days. Ideal for city trips, these Chelsea boots are substantial, making them a good choice to wear through airport security to save luggage space. These are stylish and practical best travel shoes for urban exploration.
Key features: Pull-on design, leather upper, reliable traction
Casual sneakers
Casual sneakers are the backbone of many travel wardrobes, offering comfort and versatility for various activities. Here’s a selection of the best casual sneakers perfect for travel:
Adidas Samba OG sneaker
Adidas Samba OG sneaker classic travel shoes
The Adidas Samba OG sneaker, a classic since 1950, has experienced a significant resurgence in street style recently. Editorial assistant Kat Chen highly recommends them: “They are truly my ride or die travel shoes. I got this pair last summer, but my previous Sambas lasted a decade before wearing out. These shoes have been with me through so much.” Their timeless design and comfort make them excellent best travel shoes for everyday adventures.
Key features: Lace-up, leather upper, rubber outsole, half sizes available
$100 at Adidas (women’s sizes)
Kizik Milan sneaker
Kizik Milan hands-free travel sneaker
Commerce writer Paris Wilson is enthusiastic about the Kizik Milan sneaker, highlighting its hands-free design. “This is my first Kizik, but definitely not my last,” she notes, appreciating the slip-on convenience of a sneaker. This design is particularly beneficial for travelers needing ease and speed, such as parents or those with mobility issues. “The Milan has a cool retro look. I own the Naval Academy color, which is very versatile for outfits. It comes in nylon or leather; I chose nylon for breathability in summer, but I plan to get a leather pair for cooler weather. I’ve worn them for work, all around New York City and New Jersey, and recently in Maine. The ultra-cushioned insoles kept my feet comfortable all day long, making them excellent best travel shoes.”
Key features: Hands-free entry, half sizes, removable insoles, foam midsole, narrow fit
New Balance 574 Core sneaker
New Balance 574 Core sneaker cool dad travel shoes
New Balance sneakers are back in a big way, and the 574 Core style is a favorite of commerce editor Meaghan Kenny. “These ‘cool dad shoes’ are both stylish and incredibly comfortable. I’ve owned them for about three years, and they’ve been perfect for weekend trips walking around Boston, airport travel, and my daily commute. They strike the perfect balance between sporty and stylish—comfortable for hours of walking, and the neutral color matches everything in my carry-on. Besides my classic white sneakers, these are my most worn shoes. Surprisingly, they’ve stayed clean despite my lack of caution, maintaining excellent condition.” These are reliable and stylish best travel shoes for everyday wear.
Key features: Half and wide sizes, suede and mesh upper
Adidas Stan Smith sneaker
Adidas Stan Smith versatile travel sneaker
The Adidas Stan Smith sneaker transitioned from tennis shoe to streetwear icon for good reason: exceptional comfort. Associate editor Matt Ortile has worn them for eight years. “I buy a new pair roughly every 1.5 years and rotate between similar pairs. If I could only bring one pair of shoes on a short trip, it would be these. They handle everything from city sightseeing to light hikes, are airport security-friendly, and look stylish without compromising comfort.” Ortile has traveled extensively with them, including to Paris, AlUla in Saudi Arabia, and Palau. These are truly versatile best travel shoes.
Key features: Half sizes, lace closure, OrthoLite liner
$100 at Adidas (women’s sizes)
Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star low stop sneaker
Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star low stop sneaker playful travel shoes
Recommended by Brie Schwartz, commerce director at Glamour and Teen Vogue, these Converse sneakers add a playful touch to the classic low-top design, perfect for adding personality to your travel look. Lightweight due to their canvas upper, they also offer good traction with their vulcanized rubber sole. Schwartz recently wore them on a trip to Disney, highlighting their comfort for long days of walking. These are fun and comfortable best travel shoes for casual travel.
Key features: Lightweight canvas upper, vulcanized rubber sole
Athletic shoes
For active travel days filled with hiking, workouts, or extensive walking, athletic shoes are essential. Here are some of the best athletic shoes that provide the support and comfort you need on the go:
Hoka Clifton 9 sneaker
Hoka Clifton 9 sneaker comfortable athletic travel shoes
Kenny affirms that Hokas live up to the hype. “I initially got these Clifton 9s for light runs and gym workouts, but they’ve become my go-to walking shoes as well. Despite their thick sole, which might seem bulky, the cushioning makes them incredibly comfortable for hours of walking, and they are surprisingly lightweight. They even fit well in my weekender bag’s shoe compartment without weighing it down. I’ve worn them hiking in the Poconos, shopping in Montauk, and moving apartments – all days exceeding 10,000 steps. Supportive, comfortable, and versatile, they’re a must-pack for any trip.” These are high-performance best travel shoes for active travelers.
Key features: Half and wide sizes, Gore-Tex option, recycled laces
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon Speedcross 6 lightweight travel shoes
Associate editor Charlie Hobbs is a devoted fan of the Salomon Speedcross 6, wearing them “to the gym, park, and even raves. I sometimes forget I own other shoes! They’re incredibly comfortable and easy to secure—no tying needed, just pull the cord.” Their ease and comfort make them excellent best travel shoes for those on the move.
Key features: Quick-lace system, half and wide sizes, Gore-Tex option, lightweight (10.5 ounce)
Hoka Kawana sneaker
Hoka Kawana breathable travel sneakers
Hokas are a common sight in fitness settings, and the Kawana style is favored by Glamour‘s senior commerce editor, Jenifer Calle. “I wore these in San Antonio last year, and they were a lifesaver. I did a lot of walking and wasn’t prepared for the Texas heat. Fortunately, these sneakers are bouncy and breathable, keeping my feet comfortable and sweat-free, even in the heat.” These are breathable and cushioned best travel shoes for warm climates.
Key features: Half sizes, heel pull tab, lightweight (8.9 ounce)
On Cloudmonster sneaker
On Cloudmonster maximum cushioning travel shoes
Also recommended by Calle, On Cloudmonster sneakers feature the brand’s thickest CloudTec layer for superior cushioning and energy return, reducing muscle fatigue. “I’m not a runner, but I enjoy a steady three-mile jog occasionally. Switching to On shoes from old Nikes was a revelation – my feet felt so much better while running. The rocker bottoms feel like they give me an extra push. I’m never going back to minimalist sneakers.” These are best travel shoes for maximum cushioning and energy return.
Key features: Half sizes, maximum cushioning, high energy return
Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe
Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe durable travel shoes
The Merrell Moab is the world’s best-selling hiking shoe, with over 25 million pairs sold. Flager tested the third-generation model in Iceland, finding it performed well on hikes and city walks in wet conditions. “They have excellent traction, are comfortable, and pack easily—I see why they’re so popular.” Glamour commerce writer Jake Smith also praises them: “I’ve worn them for four years, and while great for hiking, I love them as walking shoes.” These are reliable and durable best travel shoes for varied terrains.
Key features: Half and wide sizes, rugged trail-ready, protective toe cap
$120 $84 at Merrell (men’s sizes)
$120 $84 at Merrell (women’s sizes)
Slip-ons
Slip-on shoes offer unparalleled convenience and comfort, especially for travel days involving flights or quick transitions. Consider these top slip-on options for your next trip:
Kane Revive active recovery shoe
Kane Revive active recovery travel shoe
Emma McDonald from Condé Nast’s digital marketing team suggests Kane Revive recovery shoes. “I’ve had them for about a year and wear them at my standing desk all day and for running errands.” These cushioned shoes, made from Brazilian sugarcane, feature footbed nodes designed to stimulate blood flow at key pressure points. They are excellent best travel shoes for recovery and everyday comfort.
Key features: Quick-drying, easy to clean, grippy soles
SeaVees Bodega clog
SeaVees Bodega clog waterproof travel shoes
Glamour‘s commerce editor Malia Griggs favors SeaVees Bodega clogs. “I initially thought they’d just be rain boots, but I wear them constantly. They’re easy to slip on, comfortable, and perfect for drizzly days in the city. I brought them to the North Carolina mountains this summer—great plane shoes (easy on/off at security!) and durable and waterproof for light trails. The slight heel backing prevents them from slipping off while walking.” These are convenient and waterproof best travel shoes for varied weather.
Key features: Memory foam footbed, partially recycled materials
Sabah Slip-ons
Sabah Slip-ons handmade leather travel shoes
Articles director Lale Arikoglu highly recommends Sabah slip-ons, calling them “a permanent fixture on my packing list.” Available in many colors and materials (leather or suede), they are handcrafted by Sabah Workshop shoemakers in Gaziantep. “They mold to my feet like a glove with wear, becoming incredibly comfortable, almost custom-made.” These are luxurious and comfortable best travel shoes for style and ease.
Read a full review here.
Key features: Handmade, soft leather lining, replaceable rubber outsole
Sandals
For warm weather destinations, comfortable sandals are a must-have. Here are some of the best travel sandals that provide support and style in sunny locales:
Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks
Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks classic travel sandals
While sandals can sometimes be challenging for extended wear, former Traveler editor Sarah Ratner recommends classic Birkenstock Arizona sandals. Their suede-covered cork-latex footbed molds to your feet over time for personalized comfort. Available in numerous colors and regular or narrow widths, they are versatile enough to pair with almost any outfit. Arikoglu also endorses Birkenstocks, specifically the Arizona Big Buckle style. “I am very loyal to my Birkenstocks. I walked 10 miles in Barcelona in them without any rubbing.” These are iconic and comfortable best travel shoes for warm climates.
Key features: Cork-latex footbed, adjustable straps
Teva Universal Trail Sandals
Teva Universal Trail Sandals supportive travel sandals
Tevas are a brand with devoted fans, and the Universal Trail Sandals are a testament to their enduring appeal. “Once you own a pair, you’re hooked,” our editor notes. “I’ve worn them on light hikes in Arizona, sightseeing in Israel, swimming in Austin reservoirs, and recently on a trip through El Salvador. These trail sandals offer more arch support than the classic style, making them extra comfortable for both city and trail adventures. I’ve had mine for five years and they are the comfiest walking sandals I own—never a blister.” These are supportive and versatile best travel shoes for active warm-weather trips.
Key features: Adjustable straps, waterproof, grippy outsoles, recycled materials
Teva Midform Universal Sandals
Teva Midform Universal Sandals platform travel sandals
Another favorite of Spurrell, the Teva Midform Universal Sandals, are slightly less rugged than the Trail sandals but still comfortable for all-day wear. Spurrell uses them mainly for beach trips but also for biking, long walks, and even dinners in New York City, showcasing their versatility as best travel shoes.
Key features: 1.25″ platform, quick-dry material, rubber outsole
Flats
Travel flats offer a blend of style and packability, suitable for dressier occasions or when you want a break from sneakers. Here are some of the best travel flats that are both chic and comfortable:
Rothy’s The Point II flats
Rothy's The Point II flats stylish travel flats
While Rothy’s also offers classic ballet flats, The Point Flat provides a more sophisticated aesthetic. Available in over a dozen colors, from vibrant reds to elegant emeralds, there’s a shade for every traveler and outfit. Rothy’s shoes are made from recycled plastic with minimal production waste. The Point flats have been redesigned for enhanced comfort with a cushioned insole and wider toe box. Florida-based travel writer Terry Ward says of Rothy’s flats: “They instantly elevate any outfit, pack flat without losing shape, and are definitely worth the investment—mine have lasted for years.” These are elegant and eco-friendly best travel shoes for style and comfort.
Key features: Machine washable, removable cushioned insole, recycled materials
Choosing the best travel shoes is a crucial step in planning any trip. Comfort, versatility, and style are all important factors to consider. We at travels.edu.vn hope this guide helps you find the perfect footwear for your next adventure, ensuring every step is comfortable and enjoyable.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
