best men's travel shoes 2023

The 10 Best Travel Shoes for Men

We found the best footwear for staying comfortable and lightweight while you transit, sightsee, and relax at your destination.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

You likely can't fit your entire shoe rack from home , so we found the best travel shoes for men to keep you comfy walking on cobblestone streets for tours of European cities, dry after taking a plunge in the water, and looking good for date night at the resort.

Whether you have an itinerary in place for the trip or prefer to go with the flow and see where your destination takes you, you’re going to be on your feet and exploring once you get there. Travel shoes should be comfortable enough to run from TSA to your gate, kick off in the camper van when you’re not driving, and look stylish when you’re taking all of those vacation pics. The best travel shoes for men are comfortable, stylish, and versatile.

What to Consider

Comfort is key, especially when you're traveling and don't have the space for an array of footwear options for each activity you plan on doing. Think about the shoes you wear most when you have to be on your feet all day—you need a pair that gives you good support, while remaining lightweight for both walkability and packing purposes.

Sneakers offer more cushioned insoles than boots, but beware of flat sneakers like Converse and Vans as these work for some but lack arch support and may cause pain for those with high arches. If you find that you need more support but love the style of flat shoes, consider using a pair of insoles if there's a big day of walking planned.

Destination and Materials

Keep in mind the destination. An easy pair of canvas slip-ons will work great for a beach getaway, but if you're going to be out sightseeing you'll want soles that can handle slick pavement and uppers that can get wet without soaking through to your socks.

Materials like synthetic knit-mesh are good for warm places because they're breathable and dry fast, but these materials typically aren't water-resistant, so if you're caught in a city downpour you'll be dealing with wet socks. Weatherproofed leather is a good all-purpose material and—in the case of the Blundstones we recommend—it's available in lighter weights than rigid leather boots like these Red Wings . It's worthwhile to check the weather of your destination before you leave—comfy suede sneakers are great in transit, for instance, but a bummer if you plan on walking a rainy city for the next couple of days.

After figuring what you need comfort-wise, you can decide the style of shoe you ought to pack. They should be versatile enough to go with what you’re going to wear on the different activities you have planned—trips usually mean pictures, and while a pair of slippers may be the most comfortable on the plane, you probably don’t want to wear them in the annual family photo. Taking two pairs of shoes will see most people through a vacation: one sturdy pair for physical activities like walking and hiking, and one casual pair for exploring city spots like museums, nice restaurants, or theaters.

How We Selected

We considered the different ways people travel and what they look for when packing for weekend getaways or extended trips abroad. Noting pairs that were frequently recommended from reputable travel outlets like Tripadvisor and Travel + Leisure, we gathered a variety of shoes that are comfortable, versatile, and fit for different destinations from mountain hikes to beaches to city plazas.

We pared it down based on hands-on experience with a range of men's shoes for travel and made sure to include different price points and styles. I've personally tried almost all of these shoes on the list except the Crocs (I'm a man of style, after all) and can speak to the comfort, functionality, and versatility no matter your destination.

Blundstone Original 500 Boot for Men

When someone says, “This is the only blank you’ll need,” I typically roll my eyes, because variety is fun—but the Blundstone 500 boots really could be the last I ever wear. They’re lightweight, require no break-in period, and are durable enough to last through years of trips—for me, more than six years.

These boots are comfortable enough for walking the city (although you might want to throw some insoles in there if you have high arches) and they hold up to day hikes. The laid-back style is easy to dress up or down and slip on and off for airport security or giving your feet a break on long car rides.

They're a bit cumbersome to pack so I typically wear them in transit, but if they need to go in a bag you can lay them down and fill them with smaller items like socks, underwear, or tees.

I've worn my 500s walking around city squares in Spain, hiking in Greece, and dirt biking in New Mexico. They're a little beat up after all that wear, but I won't be getting rid of them anytime soon since they're still my go-to travel shoes.

Crocs Classic Clogs for Travel

Crocs used to be house shoes, but you've probably started noticing them in airport terminals and at vacation resorts because they're easy to kick off and comfortable enough for long travel.

The heel strap offers more support and stability than regular sandals, but they're breathable thanks to the perforated design. Even better, they keep your toes covered at the same time, offering more protection from dust or rocks and airline food cart wheels. They work great as water shoes, but make sure to use that heel strap to keep them from floating off your feet.

They're available in almost 40 different colors so you can go as loud or subdued as you want. There's also an all-terrain model if you want to use them on a short hike or as daily shoes. It upgrades the original by adding a rugged sole for extra tread, along with better arch support, while staying lightweight and breathable.

These only thing stopping me from traveling in my Crocs is my personal style hang-up, but if comfort and convenience are at the top of your list, these extremely comfortable shoes are a great option.

Hoka Clifton L Suede Men's Sneakers for Travel

Hoka is known for making great running shoes, but its ingenuity in design and comfort carries over to its lifestyle sneakers as well. The Cliftons are one of the brand's most popular running shoes, and here it's tweaked the model for a comfortable pair you'll want to wear everyday.

It has a high, plushy EVA footbed that feels more comfortable than any other casual shoe I've tried. They feel as lightweight as the Rincon 3s I run in, but offer noticeably more cushioning. The suede uppers and monochromatic details make them easy to wear with jeans, trousers, or shorts, so they're perfect for trips when you want one pair of shoes that can take you from a day of sightseeing to a night on the town.

Their grippy sole doesn't slip on slick crosswalks when I get caught in the rain, but the suede is a drawback on these, since it'll get ruined in the rain. The classic lace-up style may be a hassle for some, but I keep them laced loose and pull them on and off with the heel pull-tab.

Merrell Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe

Slip-on shoes are convenient for travel, but many options lack support. The Jungle Mocs have the same support you'd expect from tennis shoes, but with a beefed-up outsole and extra cushioning in the heel—perfect for lots of walking.

The leather uppers have two small elastic panels on either side of the instep for pulling them on and off easily, and reviews report you can slip into them “single-footedly” without bending down.

They come with a pair of removable insoles so you can throw in your own if you prefer. The Jungle Mocs give you the convenience you want from a slip-on with the support you need.

New Balance Fresh Foam Cruzv1 Reissue Men's Walking Shoes

New Balance’s trademarked Fresh Foam midsole is extra cushiony and offers more support than other mesh sneaker options. The grippy gum sole gives these sneakers a retro look that pairs easily with casual wear, and the flexible mesh upper makes them easy to stuff in your bag.

These shoes are super lightweight, but the upper’s mesh material isn’t suited for rough terrain, so don’t take these out if you plan on hiking any rocky paths. They’re great for cities or beaches, and their breathability makes them a good option for warm weather.

These fit smaller than my regular sneaker size, so I’d suggest sizing up a half size. Some customers say they prefer the snug fit as they like to wear them without socks, which works since they’re airy and flexible enough to prevent heel rub blisters.

Vans Classic Slip-On Travel Shoes for Men

Many people have their favorite style from Vans’s expansive selection, but the classic slip-on is its most travel-friendly. You can wear these with or without socks, they’re easy to pack, and last a surprisingly long time for their simple construction.

The canvas uppers last a few years, and when it's time to replace them, they won't hurt your wallet too much. If you have high arches, these don't provide enough support for long walking days. They're also narrow, so we don't recommend them for folks with wide feet. Adding some insoles improves support if you want to wear these for the bulk of your trip.

I use mine in transit, but I need more cushion if I'm going to be on my feet sightseeing. They're a great airport shoe and easy to pull on for pit stops while roadtripping, but I prefer more support if I'm wearing them for a long period of time.

Birkenstock Boston Clogs With Super-Grip Sole for Traveling

Birkenstock's Boston clogs are often styled as house shoes or casual wear because they're both comfortable and versatile. Both the leather upper and the cork footbed mold to the wearer's foot over time, providing a custom fit that can be worn with or without socks. This model adds a heavier-duty sole than the original style for added traction and durability.

Bostons are packable and easy to kick on and off, so traveling in them is a breeze. They provide enough support if you plan to land and immediately start knocking out some must-see spots.

The cork footbed does require a short break-in period, so if you want to travel with these, you should wear them around first so the footbed can mold to your foot. Since your heel is exposed, these won’t do well in the rain, so only wear them if you know you’re in for good weather.

Clarks Desert Chukka Boot

Anthony Bourdain typically sported a pair of Clark's desert boots while filming his show Parts Unknown , and the man knew what he was talking about when it came to versatility and comfort.

The soft leather uppers don’t need to be broken in on these boots, and they fold over for easy packing. The simple, two-eyelet lacing gives you a secure fit, but they’re easy to kick off and back on in a snap. The crepe sole—made of coagulated latex—is comfortable and pliable, but doesn’t offer a lot of traction, so I wouldn’t recommend wearing them when it rains.

I have a pair that’s a half-size smaller than my typical size to account for the suede stretching over time, and after breaking in, they fit perfectly and I can wear them comfortably all day long. These aren’t work boots, but they’re surprisingly durable and shockingly lightweight.

I wear mine casually, but I’ve toted them on a couple of camping trips, and after nine years they’re still going strong. I’ve only needed to replace the laces a couple of times, but they are the weakest point of these shoes. If you want something that'll hold up better in rain try the Bushacre chukka as it has a rubber sole and leather uppers.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals

The Hurricanes are the perfect sandal for adventuring because they can serve as a water shoe, are comfortable for short hikes, and have a grippy traction sole. The straps have a hook-and-loop closure that ensure a secure fit but that are easy to take on and off, and the padded heel strap gives your ankle extra support.

Since your toes are exposed you shouldn't use these for any treacherous terrain where you'll be dealing with jagged rocks, but they're a great choice for day hikes or anything that's around water. They can also easily be thrown into a backpack if you plan to only use them once you get to where you're going.

Allbirds Wool Runners

All-birds uses a eucalyptus fiber for mesh knit uppers that feel smooth on the skin and allow for maximum breathability. They're lightweight for travel and customers say the insoles and midsole provide enough support to be comfortable on your feet all day.

Merino wool is known for it's moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties so your feet won't overheat. When it comes time to clean them you can simply throw them in the wash and let them air dry. Some customers found that these run small and suggest going up a half size.

Danny Perez is a Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.

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The 9 Best Men's Travel Shoes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We ran 21 travel shoes through their paces

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

Tripsavvy / Kristin Kempa

Traveling with more than a couple of pairs of shoes is difficult, so planning for a trip demands comfortable, practical footwear and a jack of all trades.

Different types of travelers will have different needs, and some folks may need to bring more than one pair, no matter how hard they look for the one perfect travel shoe. For example, business travelers often need a formal option but still bring athletic footwear to stay active away from home. To address as many types of travelers as possible, we’ve presented our top picks in a range of categories below.

Our testers took 19 shoes and boots and put them through their paces at home and while traveling to evaluate comfort, style, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Other travel shoes we tested, how we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, hoka men's clifton 9 running shoe.

Marshmallow-soft cushioning

Bold and neutral colorways

Regular width runs a bit narrow

The Clifton from Hoka One One is the running shoe that made the brand the footwear juggernaut it is today, and the plush comfort of the ninth iteration of the shoe makes it our top overall travel shoe pick. The shoe provides breathable all-day comfort and does double-duty as a training and running shoe while on the road. While Hokas gained popularity with runners at first, the legendary comfort has gained the brand devotees from outside the running community, and our tester appreciated the all-day comfort of walking around a city, exercising on a rec path, and even indoors.

The shoes haven’t lost any running cred—the rockered sole makes for efficient runs, and the durable outsole helps them last for more miles, whether walking through an airport or running park paths. They’re also great for general training, so you won’t need to switch shoes to hit the hotel gym. Hokas are known for a somewhat narrow fit, but luckily the wide sizes are readily available if you have a normal to wide foot or just want a roomier fit.

Sizes: 5 to 16 (regular and wide) | Materials: EVA midsole, mesh upper | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Sustainability: Recycled materials, vegan

Tripsavvy / Mariah Tyler

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Allbirds tree dasher 2.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

Relaxed style

Carbon-neutral production

Easy to wear on long days

Lacks upper structure

Allbirds Tree Dasher is a running shoe, but the single-color all-fabric mesh upper disguises that fact enough that it doesn’t scream "running shoe" and can double as a casual fashion shoe perfect for travel. We also appreciate the company’s sustainability commitment, though you wouldn’t know from wearing it that the materials are all plant-based.

Our tester appreciated how breathable the TENCEL mesh upper (made from eucalyptus tree fiber) was and said they “almost feel like socks.” Because of this, our tester was concerned that the Allbirds might not be as supportive as a stiffer, more traditional running shoe, but we didn’t find any durability issues during testing.

At just above 10 ounces, the Tree Dashers are slightly heavier than the Hoka Clifton and don’t quite have the running pedigree of those shoes, but they also look less like a runner for those who want a less sporty look while traveling.

Sizes: 8 to 14 | Materials: TENCEL Lyocell upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole, merino wool heel lining | Weight: 10.2 ounces | Sustainability: Climate Neutral-certified, bio-based, and recycled materials

Tripsavvy / Ivy Ford

Best Budget

Vans comfycush old skool.

• Comfort 4 /5

Many fun styles/colorways

Improved, hardier model

Classic aesthetic

Mostly suited to urban terrains

While they look just like classic Vans, these are the Comfycush update of the original, which adds a springier foam midsole and padded heel collar and removes some rubber to make the shoes lighter. Our tester had owned several pairs of Vans in the past and said the Comfycush update was noticeable in terms of comfort but also made them feel more durable despite being a budget option.

The skate shoe style goes with anything (if your style is casual) and is light enough for all-day wear. The limitation of these shoes is that they aren’t great for running, though you could certainly wear them for a light workout. The waffle-pattern sole also doesn’t provide much in the way of off-road traction, but the rubber does offer good grip.

Sizes: 5 to 14.5 | Materials: Canvas upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 12 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Tripsavvy / Alessandra Amodio

Best for Running

On running men's cloud 5.

Versatile closure options

Waterproof version available

Slightly annoying design flaw

You’ve likely seen Swiss-engineered On shoes on commuters, in the gym, and at the airport, even if you don’t know the brand name. These are athletic shoes, and the brand calls itself a running brand, but the style and comfort have brought them to the masses for everyday wear and especially travel.

The Cloud 5 is the latest evolution of their core running sneaker, and our tester appreciated how lightweight they are even when running errands around town. We also liked how easily they slip on and off, which comes in handy when hustling through airport security. (The Cloud 5s come loaded with On’s speed lacing system but are also packaged with traditional laces.)

The signature CloudTec soles with their hollow cylinders are the defining characteristic of these runners and provide much of the comfort (along with the Zero Gravity foam midsole). But as anyone who’s worn On Cloud’s knows, these holes and the trench down the midfoot of the sole can pick up debris, such as rocks, while walking or running.

Sizes: 7 to 14 | Materials: Recycled polyester upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Sustainability: 44 percent recycled materials

Best Hiking Shoe

Altra lone peak 7.

• Cushioning/Knee Protection 4.4 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Responsiveness 3.8 /5
• Stability 5 /5

Wide-foot friendly

Burly, all-terrain traction

Lack of incline is particular

Our outdoor gear editor calls these kicks the best travel shoes he's owned. And for good reason. These zero-drop shoes are super comfortable and allow room for foot swelling during long flights or road trips. They also serve as a do-everything shoe as certain colors look good enough for casual office and dining settings, and the trail-running nature of the shoe makes them ideal for hiking and off-road running. (They'll also work for running on pavement.)

The zero-drop (there is no difference in height from your heel to your front foot) may not be for everyone, but we dig the minimalist feel and design. But if you're looking for a shoe you can wear from the plane to the trail, we can't think of a better option.

Sizes: 7 to 15 (regular and wide) | Materials: Altra Ego midsole and Maxtrac outsole | Weight: 11 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Blundstone Men’s Classic 550 Chelsea Boots

• Durability 3.5 /5

Timeless aesthetic

No break-in period

Easy to slip on and off

Can’t be re-soled

Tasmania, Australia’s Blundstone has been making boots like these for 130 years, so their classic Chelsea boots provide a proven, stylish design and a record of craftsmanship and quality. Unlike some urban boots that require weeks of heavy use to conform to your foot, our tester appreciated the “out of the box” comfort of the Blundstone Chelsea boots.

That comfort is thanks to a Shock Protection System (SPS) paired with a comfort footbed (they come with two different footbed options to select the one best for your foot shape). A TPU midsole paired with extra foam padding in the heel strike zone sets the Chelsea boots apart from many other urban boots that look cool but skimp on comfort.

Because of their classic style and comfort, these boots can be the only footwear you need for a trip. They obviously come up short for any athletic pursuits, though the lugged outsoles are capable enough for light hiking. But packing a lightweight pair of trainers might be the only addition to your luggage if you continue to train or run while on the road.

Sizes: 4 to 14 | Materials: Leather upper, TPU outsole | Weight: 16.9 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Best Hiking Sandals

Teva hurricane xlt2 sandals.

Active, capable fit for sandals

Solid traction

Limited to recreational activities

Sandals, in general, don't make great travel shoes. They might be comfortable for passing out on an airplane, but they show their shortcomings when walking between terminals or around a city. Teva first solved this problem in the 1980s with its distinctive hook and loop strap system, which secures the rugged sole to the foot and makes them an all-day option well-suited to warm temperatures and time in and around water.

The Hurricane is a classic Teva style, and the XLT2 is the latest update, incorporating recycled materials and comfort upgrades in the heel strap and sole. Our tester loved the fit of their hiking-shoe-like soles out of the box, which only improved with break-in time.

They're great for beach vacations, and our tester gave them a go on a trip to Los Cabos, Mexico. Our tester appreciated their versatile comfort, especially on beach walks in coarse sand where bare feet hurt and flip-flops don't provide enough structure. The tester's biggest challenge was dialing in the strap system, and we recommend leaving the heel strap alone once you've found the ideal setting.

While the Hurricanes are great for travel, walking, light hiking, and water sports, they're limited in cooler temperatures, though you can always wear warm socks with them (embrace the dad look) to extend their practical range. They also aren't always appropriate for more formal occasions, dinners, and such, so you likely will need to travel with another piece of footwear unless you're on an exclusively casual trip.

Sizes: 5 to 17 | Materials: REPREVE polyester webbing, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10.3 ounces | Sustainability: Recycled polyester webbing, recyclable, vegan

Tripsavvy / Jason Horn

Best for the Environment

Allbirds wool runner mizzles.

• Quality 4.5 /5

Thoughtful protective coating

Sock-like comfort

Relaxed athleisure appearance

Wool can get bunched up

Allbirds footwear is generally sustainability-first, and these wool casual running shoes are no exception, with recycled and bio-based materials throughout. They also offer great casual style and, as our tester exclaimed, "the comfort of a slipper without having the appearance of a slipper."

Allbirds calls these runners, but they're more like casual sneakers in a runner's style. For a running shoe, the soles are basic and smooth, and the soft wool upper lacks structure and support (though our tester noted that they lace up very securely). While you could run in them, and the SweetFoam midsole provides enough cushion, these are probably best for walking, an occasional light run or hike, and low-intensity training. Because of the slipper-like upper, our tester pointed out that the shoe developed some folding and wrinkling, and high-intensity exercise would likely only exacerbate the issue.

While merino wool is excellent for natural breathability and antimicrobial properties, it might not be your first choice for durability and weather protection. Thankfully, Allbirds addresses this with a bio-based waterproofing treatment to help keep your feet dry.

Sizes: 8 to 14 | Materials: ZQ-certified wool upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Sustainability: Climate Neutral-certified, bio-based materials, recycled materials, FSC-certified rubber

Best Splurge

Apl techloom tracer.

• Comfort 4.3 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

A trainer at the core

Sturdy construction

Cool, understated aesthetic

Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) is a “luxury performance” brand that sells $400 basketball shoes (banned by the NBA!) and a wide array of running and training shoes with premium proprietary materials and premium price tags to match.

Even though the TechLoom Tracer is more of a performance training shoe, you can see a bit of the basketball shoe roots in the shoe’s profile. While distinctly a sneaker, it may appeal to folks who like Nike style but want something more subdued and comfortable. (The APL logo is tastefully small and keeps the look neutral.)

The shoe is very structured compared to most running shoes and casual sneakers, which is a boon to performance and will likely help the shoes hold their shape over time and use, though dedicated runners may want to stick to actual running shoes. The aggressive lacing system also allows you to crank down a secure fit, making them an excellent option for people needing to stick with high-intensity training even while traveling. Our tester noted that the shoe initially felt stiff but broke in over the first few wears to settle into more all-day comfort.

The biggest hang-up on these shoes is the price tag. But if you don’t mind the spend and need a travel shoe that can stand up to wear and high-intensity training, the TechLoom Tracers may be worth the investment.

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Materials: Propelium midsole, Lycra collar, TechLoom upper, rubber outsole | Weight: 7.1 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Tripsavvy / Karen Chen

Setting the bar for comfort, the Hoka Clifton 9 is the newest version of one of the brand's classic running shoes. It doubles as a trainer and you'll appreciate it under your feet on those notoriously long travel days. Our runner-up, the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 , is a stylish and sustainable pick.

Adidas Men's Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe : A good all-around athletic shoe, but our tester struggled to put them on and didn't appreciate slippage in the heel during use.

York Athletics The Henry Runner : Billed as the only shoe you need, these sneaker hybrids were comfortable, but our tester didn't love the "restaurant worker" appearance of the all-black model.

Kuru Atom Shoes : An all-around casual sneaker that didn't differentiate itself from its competitors in our testing.

Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe: A Crocs-style sneaker designed by a sports podiatrist to provide comfort in a simple, injection-molded design. A more practical choice for athletic types who like the comfort of Crocs but want more of a sneaker for travel.

Thursday Boots Low Top : These dressed-up leather sneakers provide versatility in where and how they can be worn, but our tester didn't love the breathability and lack of support from the insoles.

Olukai Mōlina : We loved this waterproof hiker that's stylish enough to wear out but capable enough for rugged hikes. It may get warm/sweaty in certain environments.

Cole Haan Men's Howland Penny Loafer : An attractive shoe that's great for more formal trips but not ideal for all-day walking comfort.

ECCO Men's Sandals Multisport Outdoor Shoes : Though billed as a "multisport" sandal, our tester didn't feel they lived up to the billing in terms of fit and capability.

Our testing pool included more than a dozen testers from different areas of the country who tested 21 shoes close to home and on the road, from city streets to sandy beaches. We tested a range of footwear, from boots to penny loafers to running shoes, and evaluated each pair for the same criteria, including comfort, style, versatility, value, and quality.

What to Look For in Travel Shoes

Type of shoe.

For many people shopping for a travel shoe, the type of shoe they need will be the easiest way to narrow their search. If you normally travel by plane with nothing more than a piece of carry-on luggage and need a single shoe you can wear for travel, business meetings, and everything in between, a neon running shoe might not fit your needs. Conversely, a fashion-first boot isn't a great fit if you only travel for pleasure and like to stay active away from home. Weather is another easy way to eliminate contenders. If you live and travel in cold and snowy regions, boots are likely the only option, while tropical travelers will want to consider sandals or other lightweight, breathable options. Broadly speaking, most footwear that's in the running for a good travel shoe falls into a few categories: athletic sneakers, formal shoes, sandals, and boots.

For most people in the US, a reasonably fashionable sneaker is acceptable in most social settings and can serve multiple purposes for commuting, eating out, and more active pursuits. For this reason, our top recommendations tend to favor this footwear style since it can accommodate a broader range of travelers' needs.

Sport sandals are a great vacation option as they are walkable and play nice in the water while letting your feet breathe. In colder climates, boots are your best option, and they generally do double-duty as a more formal option for business travel. If you're mainly shopping for business trips, you may want to consider sacrificing some comfort to look the part, though, if you can afford the space, consider carrying two pairs of shoes: one for exercise and comfort while commuting and the other when you need to dress things up. Your feet will thank you.

Depending on the style, most shoppers can expect to pay between $70 and $200 for a good travel shoe. Cheaper options are available, but the savings will often be at the cost of comfort, style, or both. More expensive options usually fall into the formal shoe or boot categories, where you’ll pay a premium for style and quality. For the casual athletic footwear featured prominently in our top picks above, expect to pay between $90 and $150.

Wearability

Most sneaker-style shoes are fairly comfortable directly out of the box and don’t require much break-in. If they aren’t reasonably comfortable on first wear, there may be a fit issue, and your best bet is to try another model that fits your foot better. If you have a store nearby where you can try several pairs of sneakers to compare fit and comfort, do it, even if you ultimately buy online.

Boots, especially leather fashion-first options, require more break-in and may not feel plush until you’ve logged some serious miles on them. That said, if comfort is a top priority for you, consider a boot with sneaker-like comfort, such as the Blundstone Chelsea boots we recommend above.

If you’re looking for footwear that can handle your athletic pursuits in addition to providing comfort on the road, you may want to start with sport-specific footwear such as the Hoka Clifton or On Cloud 5s we recommend above. They’re running shoes that happen to make great travel shoes as well.

Unsurprisingly, a good travel shoe is generally a lighter model. The caveat is that most of a shoe's weight comes from the midsole, which is the powerhouse of comfort and support. Therefore, the best travel shoes strike the right balance of weight and comfort. Not all manufacturers or retailers publish weights, but the Hoka Clifton 9 , for example, tips the scales at 8.7 ounces each. In comparison, the Blundstone 550 Chelsea comes in at about twice that (16.9 ounces to be exact, which for a sturdy boot is more than reasonable). Pro tip: If a weight is listed it is generally for a single shoe unless otherwise specified. Keep in mind that weight increases or decreases according to size.

Some people would say to bring as many as you can carry, while the more minimalist traveler might say you should only bring as many as you need. The ideal scenario, of course, is to have one pair of shoes that work for all occasions, and this is easier to do in certain climates and for certain types of travelers. Because shoes are generally space-eaters in luggage, we recommend trying to bring two to three pairs of footwear at most, if possible. Usually, most travelers can get by with two: one pair of sneakers for activewear and comfortable travel, and another pair to dress things up as needed. As veteran travelers, we can confidently say that you’ll be glad if you can minimize your outfits and footwear (and thus luggage weight and volume) while traveling.

Cleaning and care of footwear is going to be unique to the types of materials used, and you should always consult manufacturer recommendations for cleaning since they know exactly what materials are at play and what cleaning methods will be effective.

As a general rule, leather footwear needs fairly regular cleaning and treatment to get the best comfort and to extend the life of the shoes or boots. Saddle soap is a great all-around cleaner and conditioner that provides some water resistance.

Sneakers tend to use a mix of materials and are harder to clean, but there are lots of generic sneaker cleaners on the market. We like Pink Miracle for our sneakers, but you’ll want to be sure it works for your particular brand and model.

Simple footwear such as Crocs or Kane’s Revive shoes have the advantage of both not really showing dirt in the first place and being very straightforward to clean when they do. If you don’t want to go that bare bones for your travel shoes, look for shoes that are darker in color or are straightforward to clean and, ideally, stain-resistant.

Shoes and boots that slip on and off easily are your best bet for dealing with TSA protocols. We highlight this aspect of several of our picks above, including the On Cloud 5 running shoes and the Blundstone Chelsea boots. The worst choices for the airport are boots and shoes with complicated laces or those that need to be laced tight since you’ll need to undo them on one side of security and redo them on the other. It’s also nice to be able to easily kick shoes on and off when you get a moment to kick back.

Justin Park is a veteran traveler who has visited five of the seven major continents and used to log nearly a half-million miles in air travel annually for business. He considers himself a minimalist in travel but isn’t scared to check a bag and usually travels with two pairs of shoes. His current go-to travel shoes are Danner Trail 2650s , which are comfortable and sporty enough for hiking and running but not quite a sneaker in terms of style.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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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.

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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9 Best Travel Shoes For Men – Better Adventures For 2024

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The last thing you want to worry about while scrambling to pack for a spontaneous trip is an unreliable pair of shoes that might fall apart on you.

There’s a delicate art in picking the best travel shoes for men. You want something versatile, that can ideally work in casual and formal settings. If you’re flying, you need to take into consideration how easily your shoes can slip on and off when TSA inevitably rummages through everything you have.

You might already own some quality footwear in your collection, but do you have something to rely on when going from point A to point B? What you really need is a new pair of footwear to embark on your next excursion.

Luckily, an entire sub-genre of footwear has opened up on the market, designed to accommodate many travel necessities and then some. As travel becomes more prominent for work and life, so has the development of travel shoes. A great men’s travel shoe should be efficient to put on, comfortable to walk in, and great to look at.

All the shoes on this list check these boxes while bringing their own unique characteristics to the table. Whatever you might need, you can find it within this lineup. So, let’s break down 9 of the best travel shoes for men, to bring out your inner cosmopolitan.

Key Takeaways

The best option to accompany you on your next getaway is the Wilson loafer from Helm Boots. These loafers feature a modern take on the classic penny-loafer design, offering a ton of versatility no matter where you go and what you do.

The Original dress shoe from Amberjack is also one of the best travel shoes for men, balancing style and comfort in a single package.

• What to look for

Final Verdict

Best outdoor: tropicfeel sunset sneaker.

If you’re planning to travel somewhere remote, you should bring a pair of shoes that can withstand the elements. The Sunset sneaker from Tropicfeel is just the solution for a nomadic trip in the wild.

While the Vessi sneakers are built to propel water, the Tropicfeel Sunset sneakers are built to embrace it–able to be worn fully underwater. The drainage holes in the outsoles allow water to exit the shoe without reentering. Once you come back to land, your feet should dry out in no time. If you’re wondering about wet socks, these sneakers act as a pair of socks too. It’s best to not wear any socks with these because you have the breathability and comfort of the mesh upper–one less thing to cram into your carry-on.

These shoes have sprint laces which means you can fit them securely to your feet in mere seconds. They also feature a drop-in heel which allows them to be slipped on easily and worn as slippers in even less time. They also lean toward a casual aesthetic, so throw them on with some cargo shorts, a boonie hat, and get exploring.

Material: 77% recycled polyester, 23% polyester | Sizes: 6-12.5 US | Colors Available: 5

Best Cold Weather: Cariuma OCA Therma High

While most of the suggestions on this list are geared toward warmer conditions, we haven’t forgotten colder climates. If you’re traveling somewhere a bit more unforgiving, try out the OCA Therma High sneakers from Cariuma.

These high-top sneakers are fully vegan, yes, even the Sherpa lining. Speaking of the lining, it’s integrated into the whole interior of the shoe–including the removable midsole. As Cariuma puts it on their site, these sneakers have been “winterproofed”. Not to mention, two trees are planted for each pair of shoes sold. This means you’ll be able to enjoy those trees whenever you finally decide to travel somewhere warmer.

While these high-tops might take a bit longer to slip on than a pair of loafers, once you have them on your feet, you’ll be comfy and cozy in the harshest climates. They can be worn casually with a comfy sherpa-lined flannel and beanie to brace the elements in style.

Material: 100% Vegan Suede | Sizes: 5-13 US | Colors Available: 2

Best on Amazon: Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt II Sneaker

Cole Haan is one of the most prominent figures in the fashion footwear monolith. Most notably, they hold a reputation for making comfortable shoes–this includes the Grand Crosscourt II Sneakers.

These fall into the classic, leather sneaker family. The external design doesn’t really do anything original, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts. These sneakers feature springy, shock-absorbent insoles for high comfort. Combine that with their lightweight construction and tactile tread on the outsole, and you have a great pair of walking shoes to explore a new city.

The slim, minimalistic design makes these sneakers great for casual and business-casual attire. You can wear them with a blazer and slacks, but a tee and shorts would look just as clean.

Material: 100% Leather | Sizes: 7-15 US | Colors Available: 9

Best Athletic: Merrell Trail Glove 7

If you’re the type of person who never takes a break from the gym, even when traveling, the Merrell Trail Glove 7 running shoes could be your new training partner. I’ve gone through three iterations of Merrell trail gloves over the years, and they’ve become my go-to workout shoe.

The zero-drop design, aka barefoot, is more anatomically natural compared to other cushioned, athletic sneakers. It may take an adjustment at first, but I’ve gotten so used to zero-drop runners that they’re the only shoes I use to run. If you’re not a runner though, use these for weightlifting, yoga, or whatever physical activity gets your blood pumping. The wider toe box improves balance and it means your toes have the space they need to prevent injuries.

Now, these shoes are far from formal, and you’ll have to dress super casually if these are the only pair you bring along for the ride. However, they’re so accommodating to your feet, you’ll be able to walk, run, and jump wherever you travel.

Material: Recycled Mesh | Size: 7-15 US | Colors Available: 4

Best Budget: Perry Ellis Tread Sneaker

Fun fact, the first boots I ever purchased were a pair of Perry Ellis chukkas. They were less than 50 bucks and, although the quality was admittedly poor, they lasted me throughout my senior year of high school.

Perry Ellis has made a name for itself as a designer brand offering goods at great value. The Tread Sneakers take key features from the best travel shoes for men and deliver them at an inexpensive price point. The base price is right under $100, but Perry Ellis products are frequently on sale and there are plenty of promotions you can cash in on to snag the best deal.

This particular model is made of a knit mesh material, making them breathable and super comfortable for long days of travel. Now, these should generally be worn in casual situations, but there are quite a few examples of these being dressed up–even with a suit. The profile is slim enough to accommodate a lot of different outfits, so experiment without breaking the bank.

Material: Mesh Knit | Sizes: 7.5-13 US | Colors Available: 5

Best Trending Option: Vessi Everyday Move Slip-Ons

Stop what you’re doing right now, open Instagram, and search up travel shoes. What do you find? Odds are, quite a few of the posts you’ll see are advertising Vessi sneakers. This brand has blown up recently and much of the online marketing has contributed to its trendy appeal.

The biggest selling point of Vessi sneakers is the breathable mesh material, porous enough to expel sweat but not large enough to let in water. Don’t ask me how it works, but you can find plenty of videos demonstrating their impressive water-resistance technology.

The Everyday Move Slip-Ons are particularly great for travel because of their sock-like design. They have a futuristic-ninja vibe, and if you’ll mostly be dressing casually, these are perfect for you. Complete the look with a full black, athletic outfit to embody the streamlined style.

Material: Vegan Knit Material | Sizes: 6-14 US | Colors Available: 7

Best Staple: Amberjack The Original

Ironically, one of the founders behind Amberjack was an ex-Cole Haan employee. This brand was born out of a desire to shake up the stale formal footwear market. Amberjack products resemble the outward style of a dress shoe but have more in common with sneakers on the inside. The Original takes the classic design of a derby shoe and modernizes it for a life no longer confined to a cubicle.

The dual-density rubber outsoles create the classic, stacked heel silhouette but make for a more comfortable walking experience. The heat-activated arch support keeps the foot in its natural position, even if you have flat feet. Oh, and the perforations on the vamp ensure proper ventilation no matter how hot it gets.

These shoes can obviously be dressed up with ease, but can quickly go casual if need be. Or, why not strike a balance between the two, and pair a sharp blazer with some nice jeans.

Material: Full grain leather/Italian Suede | Sizes: 7-13 US | Colors Available: 11

Best Luxury: Crown Northampton Everdon Wholecut Mid

There’s a very real possibility these sneakers might cost more than your plane tickets. However, Crown Northampton is a distinguished brand in the footwear world and shell cordovan is one of the most luxurious leathers money can buy.

For those who don’t know, shell cordovan is actually horse leather. Now, the morality of such a material is an entirely different discussion, but the fact is, it’s a highly sought-after leather. It goes through a much trickier tanning process and often comes out a beautiful burgundy color, aka “ Horween Color #8 ”. Oh, and the Horween Leather Company is also one of the most prestigious leather tanneries in the world.

All of this may sound like a bunch of gibberish to you, so to put it simply, these shoes are the highest of high-end. They’ll certainly be the star of the show with whatever outfit you decide to throw on. The high-top design also makes them great for warmer or cooler conditions, depending on where you travel. I’m sure if you do purchase a pair of these, they’ll only ever see first class.

Material: Horween Shell Cordovan | Sizes: 3-14 UK | Colors Available: 1

Best Overall: Helm The Wilson

Last summer, while on a trip to Austin, Texas, I had the pleasure of stopping by the sleepy, hole-in-the-wall Helm Headquarters. The employees were incredibly accommodating and this was the first time I got to wear the Wilson loafers. These shoes are downright excellent, and I feel the Helm brand is a criminally underrated player in the footwear market today.

It’s no surprise a loafer is at the top of this list, they’re a go-to for travel, but the Wilson is more than just a loafer. This shoe utilizes modern technology for maximum comfort in the reimaged body of a penny loafer. I personally think these shoes are stunning, especially in the burgundy color. The Helm signature white line on the midsole indicates an added layer of comfort and rigidity. Also, the leather outsole with rubber inserts ensures you have enough traction if you’re traveling somewhere stormy.

While these shoes may be a modern take on the classic design, you can still wear them like a normal pair of penny loafers. They’ll effortlessly compliment a nice pair of slacks or shorts . You also have the flexibility to wear them formally with a button up, or just throw on a nice polo for a casual look.

Material: Brush-Off Krumenauer Leather | Sizes: 6-16 US | Colors Available: 5

What To Look For In The Best Travel Shoes For Men

A critical decision when planning any trip is what type of shoes you will bring on the journey. If you’re flying, you need to deal with the hassle of TSA and probably want something that can come off easily.

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you’ll also want a ton of comfort for the inevitable walking you’ll do while sightseeing. Not to mention, you might need something formal if you’re traveling for work. The loafer fits all of these criteria flawlessly and is a go-to option for travel. A solid pair of simplistic sneakers or high-tops can also do the trick if you desire something more casual.

Material/Construction

Material is also a major player when looking at a pair of the best travel shoes for men. Mesh sneakers and shoes are a great, modern design that allows for versatility in many situations. Leather options are sophisticated and the right kind will be just as comfortable–especially suede. Above all, shoes of quality material and construction can provide you peace of mind that your footwear won’t fall apart halfway through the trip.

Lastly, comfort is huge when searching for the best men’s travel shoes. While the location and occasion of your travel might restrict how comfortable you can get, there are still plenty of options out there for you. If you’re simply traveling on vacation, you don’t want to combat blisters and swollen feet the whole time. Pick what’s the most comfortable for you, so you can enjoy your temporary destination without any hiccups.

In short, you really can’t beat the beauty, quality, and versatility of the Wilson loafers from Helm. These shoes can get you through TSA in style and they’ll take you to countless new places. Amberjack’s The Original shoe is also a great choice for those seeking a classic look in a comfortable, sneaker-esque package.

Loafers are among the best shoes for travel. They offer a balance between formal and casual, all while being easy to slip on. They can also be worn with pants or shorts, making them great when alternating between two different climates.

Running shoes are another great option when leaving home. Most running shoes focus on comfort, as they’re built to endure heavy usage. Also, if you’re an active individual, you might only need to pack one pair of shoes to get your workouts in while away from the gym.

When it comes to air travel, the best shoe is ultimately one that can be taken off and put back on with ease. You really don’t want a pair of knee-high lace-up boots that take twenty minutes just to get off–sorry goths. Slip-on shoes are often best because they can get you through TSA in a breeze, and you won’t even have to think twice about missing the flight.

Ryan is a writer, filmmaker, and all around content creator. Over the years, he has written screenplays, short stories, and nonfiction informational pieces. Ryan is currently working to build up his YouTube channel (@ ryan-jamison ) via creative video essays that combine his love of filmmaking and writing. He also *occasionally* posts some photography on his Instagram (@ ryanjamison99 ). When away from the keyboard, Ryan loves running, hiking, reading, and he’s also a total boot nerd.

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The Best Men’s Travel Shoes for Your Next Trip

By: Cameron Cardwell Published: Sep 29, 2023

By: Cameron Cardwell and Mike Bitanga Published: Sep 29, 2023

Contributors

Traveling for endless miles all around the globe allows you to learn about yourself, communicate with people from all walks of life, and feast on the wonderful views nature provides. That’s why bringing the right gear is crucial to enjoying any trip. Although many people don’t pay attention to them unless they’re uncomfortable, break apart, or soaked, the most important piece of gear is your shoes . Travel shoes are oddly underrated, in that they carry you around and support every bone and joint in your body all day. While compiling this guide to the best travel shoes, we focused on overall comfort, packability, protection against the elements, and style.

Best Travel Shoes Rundown

Best Budget Shoes

Vans Classic Slip-on Shoe

Best Slip-Ons

Teva ReEmber

Best Sneakers

New Balance 574 Core

Best Retro Sneakers

Nike Air Pegasus 83

Best Runners

Allbirds Wool Runners

Best Hybrids

Nike ACG Lowcate

Lems Boulder Boots

Best Plane Shoes

Lusso Cloud Nomad

Best Desert Boot

Vivo Barefoot Gobi III

Best Formal Shoes

Amberjack The Original

Best Lightweight Shoes

Adidas Ultraboost Light Running Shoes

What shoes are best for travel.

The right travel shoes depend on where you’re going and what you’re doing when you get there, and there’s not shortage of footwear able to handle various activities and terrain. Yes, you can grab a pair of sturdy, running shoes for all-around comfort and stability, but you can also go for a pair of lightweight slip-ons if you’re more concerned about comfort on the plane. At the end of the day, the itinerary of your trip should dictate the style of shoes you go for. But if you just want one pair to do it all, it’s safe to go with either hiking shoes or runners. We love traveling, and we know a pair of shoes can make or break the trip, so it’s important to bring the right pair (or two). 

What to Look for

Style: You probably have a style preference when it comes to shoes already (sneakers, runners, etc.), but you should go for shoes that can be used for the usual travel activities like walking tours, dinners, and hikes. If you’re more concerned about flight comfort, a soft slip-on is a great choice, and for walking, you almost always want to go for sneakers with solid arch support.

Portability: Lightweight shoes will be easier to pack and travel with, and are usually better for long-distance walking (which happens a lot when traveling). If you’re really short on space, a pair of easily collapsable/foldable shoes can be helpful as well. 

Comfort: No matter the style you go for, you want shoes with good arch support, solid cushioning, and a proper fit. If you’re only bringing one pair, make sure they’re designed for lasting comfort over style. 

Material: Shoes made of materials like leather, canvas, or synthetic blends are perfect for travel shoes, as you want something that will last but still look good. 

• Classic style
• Versatile look
• Not as much support as other sneakers

Best Budget Shoes: As one of the most iconic skate shoes (and slip-on sneakers in general), the Vans Classic Slip-ons are truly timeless , and have always been an affordable pick that gets the job done. You may not be getting the support you might get from running shoes, but they’re reliable, durable, and ready for anything. They’re made with canvas uppers with elastic sides for added stretch, and feature the classic waffle rubber outsole we all know and love.

Upper: Canvas Outsole: Rubber waffle Style: Skate

• Great for camping trips
• Soft with a natural fit
• Made with recycled materials

Best Slip-Ons: Teva has made many excellent sandals, but their talent extends to creating shoes too. Their ReEmber shoes provide the comfort of their sandals while having a sophisticated closed-toe style. Built using a majority of recycled materials, these shoes can handle it all. They have a natural fit allowing your feet to relax , and they’re super lightweight, so you have more freedom to move. It’s equipped with a 100% recycled ripstop upper, a 100% recycled polyester rib knit collar, and a 50% recycled polyester collapsible heel. On top of that, you get a grippy rubber outsole made of 50% recycled rubber and an antimicrobial treatment to keep things fresh.

Upper: Ripstop Outsole: Rubber Style: Slip-on

• Very good arch support
• Lightweight yet durable
• Minimalist style
• Limited colorways

Best Sneakers: These iconic “dad shoes” have been making waves in the fashion industry, but don’t let their newfound fame fool you – these are still some of the comfiest sneakers you can get, and are perfect for long walks and plane rides. It starts with a suede and mesh upper connected to a soft ENCAP midsole (which combines soft foam with a durable polyurethane rim), providing you with all-day comfort, and they’re super lightweight, coming in at 327.4 grams. And as part of New Balance’s green leaf standard, the upper is made of at least 50% recycled material.

Upper: Suede and mesh Outsole: Rubber Style:  Sneakers

• Old-school style
• Nike Air tech
• Padding around ankles
• Runs a bit narrow

Best Retro Sneakers: If you’re shopping for sneakers , you can never go wrong with Nike when it comes to both style and comfort. Especially when they have a retro style that goes with just about anything, and running shoe support that gives you the comfort needed on long walks. It sports a textile upper with suede accents, a foam midsole with the classic Nike Air technology (great for impact absorption), and a rubber waffle outsole for traction. Plush padding around the ankles gives you more support, and a large swoosh ties it all together. 

Upper: Textile and suede Outsole: Rubber waffle Style: Runners

• Very soft and lightweight
• Moisture-wicking
• Water-resistant

Best Walking Shoes: Whether you’re going for a hike or hitting the bar to enjoy the town’s nightlife, Allbirds are all you need. Made with a superfine coat of New Zealand Merino wool, which is turned into Allbird’s own textile, these shoes feel like clouds on your feet. These temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, water-resistant kicks have 100% recycled laces with a design inspired by nautical rope. Their padded insoles are made with castor bean oil, which cuts down carbon output compared to petroleum-based foam. Topping things off, Allbird’s Wool Runners use a proprietary, low-density foam sole with a special S-curve tread to mirror the flexibility of your feet for ideal weight distribution.

Upper: Merino wool Outsole: Foam and rubber Style: Sneakers, walking shoes

• Great for both indoor and outdoor activities
• Tuned lug pattern on the outsole for traction
• Midfoot webbing for security
• On the heavier side

Best Hybrids: Nike has designed a variety of shoes for just about every activity out there, and their ACG (All Conditions Gear) Locate shoes happen to be the perfect pair for wanderlust. Featuring a mixed material upper and comfy, lightweight cushioning for all-day support, these shoes are tough to beat. They’re made with a trail frame underfoot for a superior, supportive feel on your feet. Also, midfoot webbing keeps your feet locked in place, while the rubber outsole gives you dependable traction. Once you put these shoes on, you’ll never think about leaving the country without them.

Upper: Mixed material Outsole: Rubber Style: Hybrid

• Durable yet flexible
• Wide toe-box
• More cumbersome than sneakers, but they can fold easily

Best Boots: Comfort is everything when you’re traveling, and that’s Lems’ main focus with their Boulder Boots. These boots are shaped for a natural fit, making them more than capable of handling any situation. Constructed using 1200-denier nylon and nubuck leather, these water-resistant boots will help you trek through the jungle on some otherworldly adventures. They also have injection-blown rubber (IBR) outsoles for insane flexibility, so you can fold them down and stuff them into your duffle bag, saving tons of space. Speaking of space, these boots have a wide toe-box design, giving your feet the comfort and freedom they need while you’re discovering the world.

Upper: Nylon and rubber Outsole:  Injection-blown-rubber Style: Boot

• Great for flights
• Soft and lightweight
• Stable midsole
• Can be a little tight if you have wide feet

Best Plane Shoes: Whether you’re going for a stroll on some exotic island or keeping up with your workout routine on foreign ground, Lusso’s Cloud Nomads will protect you while you’re in motion with a super soft design. Constructed with recycled bamboo and lined with memory foam, these shoes are as comfy as they get. The soft midsoles and sole cushioning give you a comfortable fit you’ll be thankful for after a long day on your feet. Lastly, they’re finished off with IP-EVA outsoles for amazing traction.

Upper: Waffle-knit (recycled bamboo) Outsole: IP-EVA Style: Slip-on

• Formal look with a comfortable design
• Puncture-resistant finish
• Durable construction
• No half sizes

Best Desert Boot: For a more formal look , Vivobafefoot has the elegant Gobi III shoes. Although they’re more dashing, they are as durable as any other Vivobarefoot shoes. Tested in various locations, including the Sahara Desert and the jungles of Borneo, the Gobi III shoes never failed. These shoes are made with a leather upper, removable anti-bacterial cork insoles, leather footbeds that mold to your feet, and thin TPU soles for stupendous durability. For added protection, the Gobi IIIs feature a puncture-resistant finish and a protective underfoot to keep debris out.

Upper: Leather Outsole: TPU Style: Desert boot

• Water-repellant
• Made with Italian suede
• 1-year warranty
• Made in Portugal

Best Formal Shoes: If your travels involve any kind of formal event or dinner, you may want to consider these suede shoes from Amberjack. It starts with a water-repellent Italian suede and sheepskin lining, giving you a sophisticated look that’s as comfortable as it is stylish . Inside, you get a heat-activated insole that feels like memory foam providing excellent arch support, and a TPU outsole using athletic technology. On the back, there’s some hiking boot material to add to the durable construction.

Upper: Italian suede Outsole: TPU Style: Dress shoe

• Super lightweight
• Available in 29 colorways
• Continental Rubber outsoles
• A bit pricey

Best Lightweight Shoes: As one of the lightest adidas runners you can get, these Ultraboost Light Running Shoes feature a super lightweight BOOST midsole that provides comfort and solid energy return, and Continental Rubber outsoles for traction (even on wet terrain). Not only are these super comfortable, yarn in the upper is made with at least 50% Parley Ocean Plastic and 50% recycled polyester, making this a sustainable pick as well.

Upper: PrimeKnit Outsole: Continental rubber Style: Runners

The Best Weekender & Duffel Bags for Travel

Now that you’ve got some supportive shoes, you may want a bag to accompany you on your trip. So check out our best weekender & duffel bags guide.

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The 16 Best Travel Shoes of 2023, According to a Podiatrist and a Fashion Stylist

Cat hufton-schiorlin.

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There’s a fine art to traveling lightly while still looking put-together. The secret? It’s all down to the versatility of the items you pack — think a capsule wardrobe of staples that can be worn in multiple ways, not forgetting a pair or two of travel shoes to keep your feet supported and comfortable.

Of course, you’ll also need to think about your destination. “Consider the weather and terrain or walking demands of your destination and activities,” says award-winning fashion stylist Tara West. “Then, try to work comfort into your packing plans. If you pack thoughtfully, you won’t bring the wrong options or overpack shoes that won’t get worn.” West also suggests planning your looks for each day or activity, helping to streamline your list and keep things organized.

So, to help make things easier for you, we’ve narrowed down the search to 16 of the best travel shoes that cover a range of needs. We made this selection by speaking to West and board-certified podiatrist Dr. Najwa Javed, as well as conducting hours of research across the market, and considering hundreds of online reviews.

Read on to find our top picks of the best travel shoes – from the perennially popular Birkenstock Arizona, to the versatile Tevas sandals, and timeless New Balance sneakers.

The Best Travel Shoes for Different Foot Types and Foot Conditions

• Best travel shoes for plantar fasciiti s: For those who need shoes for plantar fasciitis , Dr. Javed recommends a cushioned sole. Think a firm, but flexible midsole and padding in the forefoot to help relieve some stress. You can also  add a plantar fasciiti s insole  to your shoes for extra support.
• Best travel shoes for wide fee t: If you’ve got wide feet, opt for shoes that specifically come in a wide size option or ones that “have soft mesh on the upper that will help reduce pinching for wide feet,” Dr. Javed notes.
• Best travel shoes for flat feet and high arches : “Travel shoes should be easily removable and soft to allow for swelling during long trips,” says Dr. Javed “If you’re someone that has common foot conditions like flat feet or a high arch, Dr. Javed encourages you to “always buy a shoe with a stable sole to help support the arch of the foot.”
• Best travel shoes for bunions : As a bunion is a bone deformity, it can cause a lot of pain and discomfort if you wear the wrong footwear. Dr. Javed notes that  comfortable walking shoes  with big toe boxes are an essential if you have bunions. You should look for orthopedic shoes that have flexible uppers, good arch support and a heel no bigger than two inches. Anything higher or with a pointed toe can exacerbate a bunion and cause more pain.

Related: The Best Shoes for Flat Feet The Best Sandals for Flat Feet The Best Arch Support Shoes for Women

How to Pack Your Shoes for Travel

How we chose the best shoes for travel.

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Najwa Javed  is a Board Certified Podiatrist and Founder of E’MAR Italy. Throughout her years of practice, she has focused on achieving an optimal state of health for her patients through mitigating foot and ankle injuries. With specialized training in foot and ankle surgery and clinical research, she integrates biomechanical stability with surgical innovation, biologic therapies, and modern science.

Tara West  is an  award-winning  fashion stylist,  lifestyle blogger ,  podcast co-host , and  on-air style expert  who serves clients all over the country, from Boston to NYC to Los Angeles.

Meet the Author

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31 Best Walking Shoes for Travel: The Sneakers, Boots, and Slip-Ons Our Editors Always Pack

By Madison Flager

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.

Finding the best walking shoes for travel can be tough. You want something comfortable enough to get you through a full day of wandering around, but not so comfortable that it screams “I'm a tourist!” And since nobody wants to tote around a bag (checked or otherwise) filled with shoes, the ones that do make the packing list cut need to be versatile enough to wear with multiple outfits.

Knowing that a bad pair of shoes can ruin an otherwise lovely travel day, we asked Condé Nast Traveler writers and editors (as well as shopping writers from other Condé Nast titles) to share their tried-and-true kicks, so you don't have to take a gamble on whether they'll actually be comfortable or not. Whether you're looking for sneakers , boots , flats , or sandals , we have recommendations for you. Below, more than 30 of our favorite high-quality, easy-to-pack walking shoes for travel—all cushy, supportive, and versatile—that will take you just about anywhere. Scroll through to see all of our favorite walking shoes, or jump straight to the category you're looking for below.

Athletic shoes

Slip-ons and loafers.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Elaheh Nozari.

Susie Plotkin, who works on Condé Nast's global email team, calls these platform boots “the perfect shoe.” She's had them for about three years, and has taken them everywhere. “My boyfriend lives in Switzerland, and they’re the shoe I wear to sightsee around Zurich. I've spent 12 hours walking around Venice in them, and regularly stomp all around Brooklyn in them. They’re a little heavy but super comfortable and can slide on and off so easily.”

A cold-weather favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager , these Blundstone boots required no break-in time, and are a great all-purpose boot for fall or winter trips. The pull tabs make them easy to get back on, the shock absorption keeps your feet feeling good even after a few hours on the move, and the double stitching, durable leather, and tough outsole mean you won't be replacing them a few trips later.

Former Traveler editor Meredith Carey wears these waterproof Blondo boots almost all winter long, and brings them along on any fall and winter trips. “They look and feel like leather but I can wear them in snow and rain—I don't have to worry about my shoes surviving when I'm tromping around day-to-day in New York or a new city,” she says. They come in a host of color options, from black to brown leather to snakeskin.

Senior editor Megan Spurrell is a fan of Vagabond's lug sole boots, and recommends a style with a wider toe for maximum comfort on long days of walking. Best for city trips, these Chelsea boots are on the bulkier side, so wear them through security to cut down on suitcase weight.

Spurrell has waxed poetic about Frye's Melissa Chelsea boots before: They're her go-to for any city trip. They look good with jeans, leggings , or dresses, pack down well, and over time, have become as comfortable as sneakers. Plus, they last for years and are sturdy enough to navigate cobblestone streets. What more could you want?

New Balance sneakers have made a major comeback. This style of the cool dad shoes are frequently worn by associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny , who says this: “These sneakers are just as comfortable as they are cool. I’ve had them for about two years now and they’ve come with me on a weekend trip spent walking around Boston , to the airport for a few flights, and on my very long commutes to the office. They’re a perfect balance of sporty and stylish—they don’t hurt my feet after hours of walking and the neutral shade always matches a variety of outfits in my carry-on. Besides my classic white sneakers , these are my most worn shoe. Bonus: I’m not very cautious about getting my sneakers dirty, but these have somehow stayed clean and in excellent condition—so don’t worry too much about its light hue.”

Hop on the New York City subway and you're bound to see a pair of Vejas or two on your fellow passengers' feet. Global digital director Arati Menon was first drawn to Veja because of the sleek, minimalist design and the company’s commitment to responsible sourcing. She landed on the Campo because of its chunkier sole—both an aesthetic preference and a practical one, as it offers more support. “The biggest criticism with Vejas are that they’re stiff when you first buy them, and this is somewhat true—but I’m generally cautious not to overuse new shoes for the first few times, breaking into them little by little,” she says, noting that the Campo is more comfortable out of the box than other Veja styles. “I’ve taken my Campos on rugged national park adventures and European city breaks, and use them as workwear staples. I just retired mine after years of use, but I’m sure I’ll buy another at some point.” To clean, Menon recommends a combination of mild dishwashing liquid on a damp cloth and a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser .

The Adonis is a newer style for Naot—a podiatrist-approved footwear brand —that dropped earlier this year. The sock-style slip-on is made with a removable cork and latex footbed that promises all-day comfort. Flager is a fan of the easy-to-match white and light pink style, and recommends them for city trips. (Pro tip: Bombas's cushioned no-show socks are just the right size to wear underneath.)

There's a reason why the Adidas Stan Smith has evolved from a tennis shoe to a streetwear classic (and can be found on multiple Traveler editors' shoe racks): They're too comfortable to ever want to take off. If you're going on a short trip and only have room for one pair of shoes, wear these—they can handle anything from a day of sightseeing to an impromptu hike, are easy to slide on and off at airport security, and will make you look chic, without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.

Allbirds are a great pick for most every vacation thanks to their versatility and true all-day comfort. These Tree Runners come highly recommended by contributor Lauren Dana Ellman and are available in a half dozen colorways and just as many limited-edition hues. Like all of the brand's shoes, they are machine washable, which means lighter colors are easy to keep looking new.

Read a full review here .

Recommended by Glamour and Teen Vogue commerce director Brie Schwartz , this playful spin on the classic Converse low-top will add a bit of fun to your travel day. The sneakers are relatively lightweight thanks to the canvas upper, and the vulcanized rubber sole helps with traction.

Look down in an exercise class or marathon and you're bound to see, at minimum, a few pairs of Hokas around you. Glamour 's senior commerce editor, Jenifer Calle , is partial to the brand's Kawana style: “I wore these sneakers when I was in San Antonio last year and they were a lifesaver for my feet,” Calle says. “I did a lot of walking during this trip and was not prepared for the Texas heat. (At one point my partner and I had to step into an H&M to cool off.) Luckily, my sneaks were very bouncy and breathable, so my feet never felt tired or sweaty.”

For those who live in Lululemon athleticwear, the brand's running shoes are a natural extension to your travel wardrobe. Traveler contributor and runner Rachel Chang tested these out when they launched in 2022, and was immediately impressed by the fit (designed specifically for a woman's foot), breathability, and smart features, like a reflective backing.

Editorial assistant Charlie Hobbs wears these shoes everywhere: “To the gym, to the park, to the rave—I sometimes have to remind myself that I own other shoes. You don't have to tie them, just pull a cord [to secure them]. They are so comfortable and easy.”

Former Traveler editor Scott Bay is a fan of this Arc'teryx hiker : “To me, it's technical enough to tackle any moderate hike, while being super comfortable all day, and I have been known to wear them to nice restaurants or shows.” Other perks: They last forever and you can throw them in the wash when they're in need of a polish.

Recommended by Calle, these On sneakers boast the brand's biggest layer of CloudTec ever for top-tier cushioning and energy return, as well as reduced muscle fatigue. “I’m not a runner by any means but I like to do a steady three-mile jog around Liberty State Park when the mood strikes,” Calle says. “I’ve been using old Nike sneakers for the last few years, but gave On shoes a try last year, and let me tell you, I didn’t know my feet could feel so much relief while running. I love that the rocker bottoms feel like they give me an extra push during my jog. I’m never going back to regular minimalist sneakers.”

Allbirds' sneakers are known for being comfortable, but the Tree Dashers—the brand's first pair made specifically for runners—ups the ante. The thick sole will cushion your feet on the longest of days spent exploring, and if you are someone who jogs on vacation, you can pack one less pair of shoes to do so.

Known as the most popular hiking shoe in the world—more than 25 million pairs have been sold since it debuted 15 years ago—Flager was excited to put the new third generation model of the Merrell Moab to the test. “I brought them along on a recent trip to Iceland, which involved some moderate hikes and city walks on wet roads; the shoe held up nicely on both occasions. The shoes have great traction, fit comfortably, and didn't take up tons of room in my carry-on—I can see why they're so beloved.” Jake Smith , a commerce writer for Glamour , is a big fan of the shoe, too: “I've worn them for three years, and while they're nice for hiking, I really love them as walking shoes,” he says.

Emma McDonald, who works on the digital marketing team for Condé Nast, recommends these recovery shoes from Kane. “I have had them for about six months and use them at my standing desk all day long, and while running errands.” The cushiony shoe is made out of Brazilian sugarcane, with raised footbed nodes that are designed to activate blood flow in key pressure points on the sole of your foot.

Malia Griggs , Glamour 's commerce editor, is a big fan of these SeaeVees clogs. “I thought they’d just be rain boots , but I end up wearing them all the time because they’re so easy to slip on, are comfy, and perfect for any sort of drizzly days when I’m out and about in the city,” she says. “This summer, I spent a week in the North Carolina mountains and brought them with me since they’re good plane shoes (easy on and off at security!) and also durable and waterproof enough for walks on little trails. I appreciate that they have enough of a backing to not slide all the way off when I’m walking.”

Another favorite of Schwartz, these leather lug loafers are fairly light at just half a pound each, with a comfortably low heel height of 1.1 inches. Basic black goes with everything, but for a pop of color, order them in red or emerald green.

These colorful Sabah slip-ons come highly recommended by articles director Lale Arikoglu , who calls them “a permanent fixture on my packing list.” They come in dozens of colors, in either a butter soft leather or suede, and are hand stitched by one of the 10 shoemakers who comprise the Sabah Workshop in Gaziantep. “The more I wear them, the better they fit, molding to my feet like a glove—almost as if they were designed just for me,” she says.

This black and white Cole Hahn shoe toes the line between loafer and sneaker perfectly—it's nice enough to wear into the office after hopping off a plane, but casual (and comfortable) enough to wear during a day of sightseeing. If you own enough basic black, you can get the pair with an off-white, gold, or silver leather top, too. Either way, the shoe is made for long days: There's traction on the bottom to keep you from slipping on smooth museum floors, footbeds meant to mold to your feet, and cushioned padding on the heel to prevent rubbing.

Kenny has slipped on these loafers to head to work, go out to dinner—in general, any situation where she wants to look polished but doesn't necessarily want to put on a heel. Made with a soft, merino wool upper, they come in onyx black, teak herringbone, or ivory, shown above, and have a chunky 1.5-inch sole. Best of all, they are fully machine washable.

Wearing sandals for an extended period of time can be tricky, but former Traveler editor Sarah Ratner swears by good ol' fashioned Birks, with their suede-covered cork-latex footbed that practically molds to your feet over time. The Arizona slides come in every color under the sun and can be purchased in regular or narrow sizes to better fit your feet. Plus, they're easy to match with almost any outfit.

Tevas are the kind of shoe that once you own a pair, you're a fan for life. They'll come in handy on so many occasions—light hikes through Arizona (find more intense hiking shoes here ), sightseeing through dusty roads in Israel, swimming in rocky reservoirs in Austin . The trail sandals, which Flager recommends, have a bit more arch support than the classic style, meaning they'll be even more comfortable both in cities and on trails.

A second Birkenstock option with a ringing endorsement: The Arizona Big Buckle style. “I am very loyal to my Birkenstocks,” says Arikoglu. “I walked 10 miles in one day in Barcelona in them and they never rubbed.”

Another favorite of Kenny's, these Rothy's slides are a welcome update to some of the brand's previous iterations of sandals, which, while cute, offered little when it came to support. “When I put these new slides on from Rothy’s, I immediately knew they will be my go-to summer sandal for beach excursions and vacation days that require a decent amount of walking while also looking put together,” Kenny says. “A durable yet comfortable sandal is always tricky to find, but these have a pretty thick sole and give a lot more support than the flat pair of flip flops I’m always tempted to pack. I went for the neutral beige color that I know will match any midi dress or linen pants I pack this summer.”

Another one of Spurrell's go-to's , these Tevas are slightly less grippy than the Trail sandals, but are still plenty comfortable for all-day wear. Spurrell has worn them on bike rides, long walks, beach days, and out to dinner in New York—proof of their range, and value on your packing list.

It can be nice to have a good pair of flats tucked away in your suitcase for a fancy dinner or evening stroll after a long day in sneakers, especially given how easy they are to pack. We like Birdies' The Starling flats, meant to be a modern take on the classic smoking slipper. They're built to last, and to keep your feet comfortable: Inside, there's seven-layer cushioned footbed with elevated arch support, plus a little extra cushion in the heel to prevent it from rubbing. Order them in suede, faux fur, or velvet fabrics.

While Rothy's makes a classic ballet flat , too, we love the more sophisticated look of the Point Flat. Available in more than a dozen colors from lollipop red to boysenberry and dark emerald, there's a hue for every kind of traveler and outfit. All of Rothy's shoes are made out of recycled plastic, and cut using the same technology as Suav, meaning there's less waste throughout production. The shoes were recently redesigned to be even more comfortable thanks to a cushier insole and more spacious toebox.

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Best Travel Shoes for Men + What to Look For

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 8 Comments

When you travel, the chances are you are going to be doing a fair bit of walking. We usually spend many hours on our feet each day of our trips, whether that be hiking or just exploring city attractions.

Given how much time you will likely spend on your feet, having the right travel shoes is really important. You want shoes that will be comfortable for prolonged time, but that are also suitable for the rigors of travel.

Shoes can also be heavy, so you generally don’t want to be bringing too many pairs with you as they can take up valuable luggage space.

The key thing is to find the right kind of shoes for the trip you are going on. Ideally these will be versatile, and able to be used in a variety of situations.

For example, you might find a pair of shoes that are comfortable enough to walk around in all day, which are also smart enough for a nice evening out.

We’ve spent years traveling for many months out of the year, often walking in excess of 20,000 steps a day researching destinations. We do everything from exploring cities to hiking up mountains, and our trips cover all sorts of terrain, from city streets to deserts to dirt and snow-covered trails.

Based on our experiences traveling (and wearing many pairs of shoes!), I’ve put together this list of the best travel shoes for men. We also have a guide to travel shoes for women here .

This post covers a wide variety of men’s travel shoes, from hiking boots to sandals, to versatile all-rounders that are as comfortable in a nice restaurant as they are walking all day in a city.

I’m also going to share some of the things you need to think about and look for when buying a pair of shoes for travel. Let’s get started!

Things to Consider when buying Travel Shoes

Versatility.

Versatility is important when it comes to travel shoes – ideally you want a pair of shoes that will fill a variety of roles, so you can minimize how many pairs you need to pack.

Having shoes that match and blend easily with the majority of your clothes is also useful. This means that whether you’re wandering the city streets during the day, or heading out for a night on the town, your shoes will work.

We think that sticking to neutral colors, like black, tan, navy, grey or brown, will help ensure that your travel shoes will go with whatever clothes you wear each day.

It might not seem like it sometimes, but your choice of travel shoes really can make or break your holiday.

Sometimes you have to make the investment to ensure that your sightseeing itinerary goes as smoothly as it possibly can.

We know that the price tag can really take the shine off a great pair of travel shoes, so we’ve tried to include shoes across a whole range of budgets.

However, do bear in mind that shoes can be a real investment. We have found that investing in a good pair of travel shoes or hiking boots that last for many years and offer great comfort is well worth it.

Space (in luggage)

The amount of luggage you plan to take on your trip is really going to impact how many pairs of travel shoes you can take with you.

If you choose to travel with a backpack or carry-on suitcase, chances are you’ll be limited to one pair, so it’s important to pick the right ones!

Although more luggage space means you can carry more shoes, sometimes one or two pairs of high-quality footwear is all you need if you pick the right ones.

With airlines cracking down on maximum weight allowance, less really is more when it comes to packing your travel shoes.

The lighter the shoes, the more pairs you can bring with you, or alternatively, the more space you will have for clothes & souvenirs.

It becomes a little bit more difficult during the winter months when you are traveling with heavy snow and hiking boots, but you should still keep weight in mind and search for the most comfortable, lightweight footwear you can find.

You may be tempted to pick up a pair of cheap hiking boots, but the lower the quality the less enjoyment you will get from your trip, and your shoes in the long term.

Trust me, you don’t want to be half way through a hike and suffering with wet feet or blisters because you cut costs on your hiking shoes.

Investing in your travel shoes is investing in your happiness at the end of the day. Look for qualities like grip, reinforcement around the toes, flexibility in the soles, and weatherproof features.

In our experience, a good pair of shoes from a well-known manufacturer will last for many years.

They might be the most stylish shoes you’ve ever laid eyes on, but if they are not comfortable, they certainly aren’t worth the pain they will inevitably cause you during your trip.

I would argue that comfort is the most important point on this list.

Big adventures can take their toll on your feet, with hours of walking everyday, climbing endless flights of stairs, and rugged mountain terrains, your feet deserve to be as comfortable as possible.

Once you’ve ticked the boxes for all of the above, it’s time to think about the overall style of your new travel shoes. A comfortable pair of stylish shoes will go a long way!

The style of the footwear impacts how many different types of outfits you can wear them with and how easily you can take your shoes from day to night.

We’ve included some of the most stylish travel shoes below to cover you for any travel occasion, at any time of the year.

Best Travel Shoes for Men

We’ve split our guide out into the various types of travel shoes available for men. Depending on the type of trip you are going on, you will likely need shoes from one or more of these categories.

Generally, our trips include both city walking and backcountry hiking. So I will usually pack a good pair of versatile travel shoes, and then, depending on the hiking and likely weather conditions, I will bring a pair of hiking boots.

If we are travelling somewhere warmer, I’ll also likely bring some sandals, which are lightweight and don’t take up much space.

Of course, which travel shoes you bring will depend on a variety of factors, but hopefully the options below should give you lots of ideas!

Best Versatile Travel Shoes for Men

If you’re simply looking for ‘the one’, the most comfortable, reliable, durable and stylish pair of shoes for many different types of travel, these are our go-to versatile travel shoes for men.

1. Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles

If you want something which is super comfortable for all day use and not too formal, then check out the range that Allbirds / Allbirds UK have.

I actually have five pairs of Allbirds shoes!

First, I have a pair of Allbirds Wool Runner-Up Mizzles (UK here ) which Allbirds sent me to test out.

I liked them so much that I’ve since acquired four more pairs of AllBirds shoes. For travel though, I think that the Allbirds Tree Runners (UK here ) and Allbirds Wool Runner-Up Mizzles are my favourites.

These shoes meet different needs for travel, and I’ll go over them both so you can see which might be best for your trips.

First, the Allbirds Wool Runner-Up Mizzles. These are made from merino wool which has a water-repellent shield, meaning they are pretty water resistant.

In my testing they will repel rain water for a while, so will withstand a rain shower. However, they’re not waterproof, in that you can’t stand in water for a long time and expect to have dry feet!

The Wool Mizzles are also incredibly comfortable, as you would imagine, given that they are made of merino wool. I’ve worn them for full day adventures around town, and they are really comfortable. They’re also smart enough for evening wear, if not perhaps in the same category of formal wear as other shoes on this list.

The Wool Runner Mizzles are great shoes if you want something which is a bit warmer and which offers rain protection. So a city visit in a cooler month for example is a good scenario.

The Allbirds Tree Runners are more of a sneaker style shoe, which are made from eucalyptus tree fibers. That makes them very breathable and lightweight, and ideal for travelling in warmer climates.

I’ve used them on a trip across East Africa as well as in Europe in summer during a heatwave, and they were incredibly comfortable even on days when we were exploring cities and covering 25,000+ steps in 35C / 95F + heat!

In fact, I liked the pair of Tree Runners so much that I’ve since bought multiple pairs in different colors!

Both these shoe styles, and most of the shoes from Allbirds in general, offer a number of features which make them awesome as travel shoes.

They’re machine washable, and they minimise odour so you can wear them with or without socks. There are also lots of little details, like the full sealed caps on the laces to stop them fraying, that show someone really took their time to get them right.

The Allbirds brand also has a strong focus on using responsibly sourced and renewable materials. They also have a focus on sustainability and a commitment to doing right by the planet, you can read more about that here . They also have vegan shoes available.

Allbirds have an excellent selection of men’s shoes which you can see here (UK here ), and I think they are definitely worth checking out for your next travel shoe.

You can also read our complete Allbirds review , which has everything you need to know about these shoes and the styles available.

2. Timberland Stormbuck Waterproof Oxford Shoe

My favorite shoes for travel when I want something a bit more formal looking are a pair of Timberland’s called the Men’s Carter Notch, but unfortunately Timberland has stopped making them.

However, they have something similar called the Timberland Stormbuck, which is what I’ll be buying if my current pair ever wears out!

Despite their relatively formal appearance, Timberland has managed to make a shoe that is also comfortable for walking around in all day as well as being fully waterproof.

The anti-fatigue footbed works to keep feet comfortable all day, and these shoes are just as comfortable in the city as they are giving a presentation or going out for a meal at a nice restaurant. The sole is designed to give maximum traction, and I’ve happily walked countless miles in mine.

For trips where I really just want to pack one pair of shoes, and where I know I’ll have some nights out at nicer restaurants, this would be my go-to pair.

Check price on Amazon here .

3. Merrell Freewheel 2

These stylish smooth suede sneakers are comfortable enough for all day walking and smart enough for an evening out.

Their EVA midsole and air cushion insole are ideal for comfort and stability, while the rubber sole provide the traction you need to hit up as many tourist attractions as possible on your travels.

On top of all of this, they are super stylish and can be paired with a pair of shorts during the day, or with a pair of jeans for an evening meal out. They have it all, comfort, support and versatility.

The only downside is that suede can be susceptible to stains, and isn’t waterproof. We would advise treating them with a suede waterproofing product like this .

Check price on Amazon here , and Zappos here .

4. Tropicfeel Canyon Shoes

If you’re looking for all round versatility, it’s hard to go wrong with the Tropicfeel Canyon shoe. This, and its sibling the Tropicfeel Monsoon, are my go-to shoes for casual wear and beachwear.

These shoes are incredibly versatile. I wear them around town, where they look like a good pair of sneakers. But they are so much more! They’re designed to be quick drying, ultra-light, and they work great as water shoes as well, as well as for general walking and hiking.

You can wear them with socks or without, and they have a powerful odour control system built-in so you don’t need to worry about them smelling.

I also love the elasticated lace system which basically means they slip on and off really easily, meaning they are my favorite shoes for air travel. Finally, the manufacturers are committed to sustainability – the shoes are actually made from recycled plastic bottles.

The main disadvantages are that they aren’t really smart enough for every evening adventure, and as they’re water shoes they aren’t water resistant. So they’re not ideal in the rain, although they do at least dry quickly.

Available direct from Tropicfeel here

5. Adidas Men’s Duramo 10 Running Shoes

To be mentioned as our ‘best travel sports shoes’ you need to combine durability, comfort and flexibility in one. 

If they happen to be as stylish as the Adidas Duramo 10 Running Shoes, that’s a bonus! These shoes are built with light mesh for breathability and a cloudfoam sole for extra cushioning during your activities.

On top of this, they are reinforced with ADIWEAR technology for extra resistance against wear and tear and the outsole grip is made with running and jogging in mind. They are a stylish all-in-one option for both sports and general sightseeing around the world.

6. Clarks Ashcombe Bay

Clarks have been creating high quality, reliable shoes for almost 200 years, so it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about how to build the ideal travel shoe.

Their Ashcombe Bay range is a perfect example of this. With dark brown leather upper, a waterproof membrane, lightweight feel and a durable sole unit with great grip, they really encapsulate style and comfort. Finished with a lace fastening for a secure fit, these shoes are perfect for exploring.

Best Travel Walking Shoes / Sneakers for Men

These shoes emphasise comfort for long periods of walking over anything else. They might not be quite as smart as some of our other options, but they will certainly keep your feet comfortable!

We covered these in our favourite shoes above, but wanted to include them here as well because we think they are a great pair of shoes.

The Wool mizzles are incredibly comfortable, and Allbirds have an excellent selection of men’s shoes which you can see here . I think they are definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something a little less formal from your travel shoe that will be comfortable for all day wear. Check out their Tree Runners if you want something a bit cooler for hotter countries.

Again, if you are interested in Allbirds shoes we recommend reading our complete Allbirds review , which has everything you need to know about these shoes and the styles available.

2. Merrell Freewheel Lace

We’ve already mentioned this perfect pair in our ‘Most Versatile Travel Shoes’ section, so you can probably tell that we are big fans!

It doesn’t get much more comfortable when it comes to travel walking shoes, as these stylish smooth suede trainers are renowned for their lightweight support. Their EVA midsole and air cushion insole are ideal for comfort and stability, while the rubber inserts provide the traction you need to get the miles in.

3. Skechers Men’s 54601 Trainers

Skechers have really upped their game with their comfortable and affordable walking sneakers.

The Go Walk Max range is designed with athletic walking in mind, so you can be sure that their cushioned, supportive sole design will keep your feet going strong even after a long day of exploring.

Jess loves her Mary Jane Skechers for all day city exploration, and we are confident that these will be super comfortable for all day use too.

Check price on Amazon here , and  Zappos here .

4. Adidas Men’s Terrex Swift R2 GTX Cross Trainers

If you are looking for durability, these are a great option! Their GORE-TEX Upper ensures that the shoe is completely waterproof, while the snug fit and lace bungee helps to avoid awkward tangling so you’ll never have to worry about your laces untying while you’re on the go.

The ripstop fabric is light weight and excellent for durability, while the synthetic overlays provide extra support to the construction.

Best Travel Sandals for Men

If you’re travelling somewhere warmer, you might consider some travel sandals to keep your feet cool. These can be really comfortable too, with models offering good support and soles that are suitable for hiking and more casual use.

1. ECCO Men’s Yucatan outdoor offroad hiking sandal

You can always rely on ECCO when it comes to lightweight, supportive sandals. But you don’t have to take our word for it – their Yucatan sandals currently have over 1,300 reviews on Amazon with a 4.5 star rating!

It also helps that they come in every colour you could ever want. If you are on a mission to tackle the terrain, you will love their dual density footbed, made for added comfort and performance.

Check price on Amazon here , Zappos here , and REI here .

2. Skechers Men’s Louden Sandal

Comfort is key when it comes to travel sandals, so the more cushion, the better. Skechers take their padding pretty seriously with their memory foam cushioned footbed and 360 padded straps!

The Louden Sandal is part of their new ‘R elaxed Fit’ series, which offers a roomier and more comfortable fit.

3. Dockers Men’s Newpage Sporty Outdoor Sandal Shoe

If your itinerary is jam packed with sporting activities, you’ll want to find something that syncs up perfectly to your movement. 

The Dockers memory foam insole shapes to your foot for instant comfort and a more personal fit. The f usion footbed adds an extra layer of cushioning and the rubber outsole guarantees durability and grip for any outdoor activity.

4. Teva Voya Flip

If you just want a pair of relaxed flip-flops for beach use or for the pool, you probably don’t want a full blown sandal.

Instead, I think this pair of beach ready flip flops from Teva would be a great option. They’re available at a great price point and have thousands of happy customers, and they’re small and light enough to be added to any bag without taking up too much precious space.

Check price on Amazon here , Zappos here and REI here .

Best Travel Hiking Boots for Men

If you’re going to be doing any serious hiking on your travels, I highly recommend getting a good pair of hiking boots. These can definitely be pricey, but I urge you not to cut corners with good hiking boots, as they will last you for years.

1. Scarpa Men’s Kinesis Pro GTX Hiking Boots

These hiking boots are well built and designed to last for many years of hiking across a variety of terrains. I’ve worn Scarpa boots for decades, and these Kinesis Pro GTX boots are only my second pair!

This pair of Scarpa boots are waterproof with a full grain leather upper section, a Gore-Tex lining, an easy-lace system, excellent ankle support, and a comfortable Vibram sole.

These are fairly expensive, but hiking boots are definitely an investment, and this is a pair that we are sure will last you for years to come.

I’ve worn these hiking boots on hikes all around the world, including in Australia, Europe and the USA, in conditions from deserts to snow, and they haven’t let me down yet!

2. Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Hiking Boots

Lowa are a well known brand for high quality travel footwear. These lightweight hiking boots have fantastic grip, a climate-control footbed and a outer layer of leather for warmth and weatherproofing.

It’s difficult to find such a lightweight, versatile pair of boots like these. Their flexibility and comfort is next to none – foolproof for a day out on the hiking trails whilst still being light enough to pack for travel.

3. Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

For a long time Merrell were Jess’s go to hiking boots, and in fact she wore a pair of Merrell boots when hiking Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania .

The pair we recommend are the Moab 3 Mid Waterproof version, which offer a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry as well as all important ankle support. There are different versions of this shoe though, depending on your needs.

Check price on Amazon here

Best Travel Water Shoes for Men

If you’re going to be spending time on the beach or in the sea, you might consider a pair of water shoes. These are fast drying shoes specifically designed for water based activities, which will keep your feet protected.

1. Tropicfeel Monsoon

I already mentioned the Tropicfeel Canyon in my round-up of my favourite general travel shoes. Those are also very capable as water shoes, but I also wanted to give a shoutout to the other pair of Tropicfeel shoes I own – the Tropicfeel Monsoons.

Essentially, if you want a pair of water shoes that are just as handy for trail hiking or city streets, you’ll want to think about investing in a pair of Tropicfeel shoes.

These are also manufactured from recycled plastic bottles, and offer easy slip on and slip off comfort. They also have a quick dry system, so even after a day at the beach you shouldn’t have to worry about packing wet shoes away.

We use these on beach trips and when we think we’re going to be getting our feet wet a lot, such as on a hike to Havasu Falls .

2. Belilent Water Shoes

These non-slip water shoes have all of the key features required for a great day out on the water. They are soft and lightweight, flexible, have a breathable upper mesh and protective soles.

They’re ideal for all water sports, water-based activities and beach time, but also comfortable for other uses.

3. Sixspace Barefoot Water Shoes

If you are looking for fast drying water shoes, that are easy to pull on and off, these are the ones for you.

With tough padding around the sole, the Sixspace Barefoot water shoes protect you from sharp rocks and cuts while you’re out at sea.

Their stretchy upper and removable padded insole provides maximum comfort and flexibility, so you can enjoy any water sport without worry.

4. Sport.z Barefoot Shoes

The Sport.z Barefoot water shoes are made to last, with breathable ultra light weight fabric for fast draining and cross ventilation. Not only can you can wear them as water shoes, but also for walking or hiking, which adds to their versatility on your next trip.

Best Travel Sports Shoes for Men

If you like to be active when you travel, or just want to some really comfortable shoes, these sports shoes might be ideal for you.

They’re also generally fairly light weight, so won’t take up too much room in your bag, and can be useful for less challenging hikes in dry conditions.

1. Adidas Men’s Duramo 10

The best travel sports shoes should combine durability, comfort and flexibility in one.  If they happen to be as stylish as the Adidas Duramo 10, that’s a bonus!

These shoes are built with light mesh for breathability and a cloudfoam sole for extra cushioning during your activities. On top of this, they are reinforced with ADIWEAR technology for extra resistance against wear and tear and the outsole grip is made with running and jogging in mind.

They are a stylish all-in-one option for both sports and general sightseeing around the world.

2. ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus Running Shoes

Famous among the running community, you can always count on Asics to bring you high quality and durable sports shoes.

The GEL-Nimbus series were actually created with Marathons in mind (which can be quite similar to sightseeing if you ask me!). 

They have a visible gel in the back of the sole to make each step a little bit easier and much more comfortable. The ‘FlyteFoam’ bottom minimizes impact, and the mesh upper adapts to your foot for extreme comfort and excellent breathability.

It could be argued that these are the best on the market in terms of structure, support and affordability.

Best Travel Snow Boots

If you are going to be travelling somewhere where there is likely to be a lot of snow to walk through, you might consider buying a specially designed pair of snow boots rather than hiking boots.

Unlike hiking boots, these include additional insulation to keep your feet warm, plus they usually have protection against snow entering the boot from the top of the boot, which based on personal experience, is never a pleasant thing!

1. Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Shell Snow Boots

Mastering the perfect snow boot isn’t easy, it takes the right combination of grip, comfort, warmth and breathability. These guys have hit the nail on the head.

With a focus on waterproof protection, t he Merrell winter range has built an all-over defense from snow and rain to ensure all-around warmth in the coldest of temperatures.

Once you slip your feet inside, the insoles instantly mould around you to provide the flexibility, support and protected movement that you need.

2. The North Face Men’s Tsumoru Snow Boot

The North Face are famous for their high quality gear, and these boots will certainly make you understand why they have become one of the most trusted brands in the adventure travel world.

Lace them up right and nothing will be getting in or out of these snow boots! With features like the injection-moulded eva midsole along with their PU-coated, ballistic-mesh upper, these are the perfect travel snow boot to protect you from winter’s worst.

With high quality insulation, your feet will stay toasty warm, whatever the outside conditions!

Check price on Amazon here and Zappos here .

3. Columbia Men’s Bugaboot Plus

If it’s warmth you’re after, these waterproof, cosy, cushioned Columbia winter boots will keep you warm and protected on winter days.

Best Travel Dress Shoes

If you need smarter shoes to travel with, you’ll want a pair of travel dress shoes. We’ve looked for shoes that are comfortable as well as being stylish, and also shoes that shouldn’t take up too much space in your bag where possible.

1. Clarks Men’s Cotrell Edge Oxford

If you’re looking for comfort and durability you really can’t beat a good pair of Clarks. Their Cotrell Edge Oxford shoes have a foam inlay, made from ‘open-cell Ortholite technology’ which helps with impact absorption with every step you take.

Treat them well and you will get years out of these shoes, as they don’t flatten under pressure or with wear. Highly recommend!

2. ECCO Men’s Luca Slip On Trainers

Ecco are known for their high quality mens shoes, and these slip on travel dress shoes are the perfect combination of comfort and style.

Wear them year round, from day to night, for a casual dressed up look. They are also lightweight, making them the ideal shoes to tuck inside your luggage.

3. Hush Puppies Men’s Moccasin

You can’t go wrong with a pair of these Hush Puppies. Their soft leather uppers mean that they can be easily stored in your bag without taking up too much space.

They also feature breathable microfiber lining and wrapped sock lining for a comfortable fit no matter what the temperature. Their durable rubber outsole provides ideal traction for exploring new cities for hours on end.

How Many Shoes Should I Pack for Travel?

I try to travel with no more than two pairs of shoes on most trips where possible, however, this varies depending on where we are travelling to and the types of activities we’ll be doing.

Normally, most of our trips include a combination of city travel and hiking. On those trips, I’ll wear my hiking boots to travel in as they are bulkier and heavier, and will pack either my Timberland shoes or one of my Allbirds pairs in my bag.

Of course, sometimes you will need to travel with more shoes for more specific activities, but we advise trying to keep it to three pairs as a maximum.

Best Travel Shoe Accessories for Men

It’s not all about the actual shoes of course. There are some accessories and items that we advise you also look into to improve your foot comfort when you travel.

1. Rockay Accelerate Anti-Blister Running Socks

A great pair of shoes won’t get you far without a good pair of socks inside them. I don’t know many people who put a lot of thought into their socks of choice, so don’t worry – we’ve found some that tick all the travel essential boxes.

Comfort, breathability, washability (is there anything worse than only getting 1 or 2 solid wears out of your socks before they start to fall apart in the wash?) and odor control.

2. Merino Wool Hiking Socks

If you are planning on doing any hiking, I highly recommend a pair of good hiking socks. I prefer merino wool socks for hiking as they are good at controlling both moisture and temperature.

This pack of socks comes with four pairs, which should be enough for most trips, plus you can always do laundry as you travel . They also offer a reinforced heel and toe for longevity.

3. SOUL INSOLE – Premium Orthotic Insole

With all of the walking, Jess and I have suffered from arch pain during our trips, and these have been a life saver! They slot right into the arch of your shoe for maximum comfort – even sandals and dress shoes.

They instantly r educe the pressure from my forefoot and heel by redistributing the pressure evenly across my entire foot.

A big bonus for me is the fact that they are w ashable and reusable so one pack will get you a long way. Their m edical grade gel is antibacterial, odorless, soft and flexible. I can’t recommend them enough!

4. Travel Shoe Bag

For ease of packing, and to save you the worry of having to get your shoes spotless before adding them to your bag, we recommend you pick up some shoe bags to travel with.

The Yamiu shoe bags are inexpensive, come in a set of 4 bags across two sizes, and are made of a waterproof material. When you’re not traveling, you can use them to store your shoes in a dust free environment, and being waterproof you can even use them as a toiletry bag if you don’t have four pairs of shoes to travel with!

5. Waterproofing Wax

If you buy an expensive pair of leather shoes or hiking boots, we can highly recommend buying a good after care product like this Nikwax Waterproofing wax.

This isn’t necessarily something you will want to travel with, but we recommend using it regularly on your leather products to maintain their waterproof capabilities and keep the leather in top condition.

Further Reading

That summarises our guide to the best travel shoes for men! Hopefully you found it useful. We’ve also put all the items from this guide into a list on Amazon for easy reference.

We also have a number of other relevant posts that we think you will find useful for travel planning.

• We have a detailed Allbirds review , which has everything you need to know about these shoes and the styles available.
• If you’re looking for specific packing tips, see our guides to what to pack for a ski trip , what to pack for Iceland , what to pack for London , and what to pack for winter in Finland to get started.
• For gift ideas, see our guide to what to buy for photographers , travel themed home decor items , and our ultimate gift guide for travelers .
• We also have lots of travel posts to help inspire and help you plan your next trip! These include our guide to the world’s best road trips , our guide to getting online when travelling , our guide to picking a travel router and more

And that’s it. We hope you found a pair of shoes you like, or at least some ideas for what to look for when buying your next pair of travel shoes.

Do you have a favourite pair of travel shoes you’d like to share, or a question about any of the above? As always, just let us know in the comments below!

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There are 8 comments on this post

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19th October 2022 at 6:35 am

Hello Laurence, thanks for the list.

I’m going to be travelling to a few cities in Europe for the first time for about 3 weeks(Belgium, Germany, Austria), from mid november to early december, so i’m assuming i can expect a not extremely cold environment, but most likely colder than i’m used to as a south american haha, so i’m trying to figure out what would be some good pairs of shoes to bring to my trip. I’m mostly worried about rainy weather, since in the colder months I usually wear some pretty comfortable and breathable running shoes and switch to warmer socks and works well enough for me at around 8C(45~F), but i’m not sure if that strategy will work out this time since they’re very not waterproof haha, so what would you recommend? assuming it’s going to be an exclusively city walking trip.

Laurence Norah says

21st October 2022 at 1:43 am

It’s my pleasure. So my personal choice would be the Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles. They are fairly water resistant and are what I use for most of our cooler weather trips. I’m wearing them around Chicago at the moment and it’s been pretty cold and they have been comfortable for the trip. They are not going to withstand standing in rivers or anything like that, but they are fine for general wet weather in my experience.

I hope this helps!

Have a great trip 🙂

14th March 2022 at 4:45 pm

Hi Laurence, Found this article after reading through some of your Iceland articles which have been very useful. Thoughts on what shoes my wife and I should pack for a 10 day winter trip? Spending time in capital, some hiking, baths, beaches, day tours, etc. Thanks!

14th March 2022 at 4:58 pm

Thanks so much. So personally I’d lean towards a good pair of hiking boots which is what we wear in Iceland in winter. Another option is snow boots, but those are a bit more specific. Waterproof hiking boots with a good grip should cover all your needs, along with some nice warm socks. You might also consider something like the Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles for city use as they offer some water resistance and are quite warm too, but they wouldn’t be as good for hiking.

Let me know if I can help any further, and have an amazing time in Iceland!

24th August 2019 at 1:42 pm

This has been helpful. I am trying to find a pair of shoes for a 2 wk trip where I can just take the one pair as I don’t want to pack any shoes. The trip will to 3 cities in the USA so mostly a lot of city walking but also maybe some light walking/hiking on trails. I have wide feet so need a wide toe box and am prone to blisters. Thoughts on shoes and socks you would consider packing?

25th August 2019 at 2:45 pm

I’m delighted to have been of help! So my first tip would be around socks. If you are prone to blisters, what I have found to work for me is to wear two pairs of thin socks rather than one pair of socks. Then, if there is friction, it happens between the socks rather than on your foot. Another option is to rub vaseline into your feet, which can also help. The anti-blister socks are also a good idea, and I would also suggest packing some blister specific sticking plasters like this .

As you only want to travel with one pair of shoes for a city break / light trail walking I am guessing you might want something a little bit smarter that would work on an evening out as well. So I’d suggest maybe the Timberland shoes, which are what I have. They are smart enough for a night out, but they also work for city walking. I wouldn’t want to do any extreme hiking, but they are ok for trail walking.

If those are a bit formal, then I think the Adidas Terrex might be a good pick. If you are buying online, my suggestion would be to purchase some different options at different sizes so you can return the ones that don’t fit.

HAve a great trip 🙂

Brandon says

29th April 2019 at 4:57 pm

This has lots of good recommendations for men. I am heading on a trip soon that will include some city walking, museums, beaches, and snorkeling. I am guessing I will need two pairs of shoes…trying to fly carry-on only as short trip. Any thoughts? New to traveling and this is also my first time snorkeling so not sure if just flip-flops would be ok for boat or maybe water or reef shoes would be better?

30th April 2019 at 5:44 pm

Hi Brandon – it’s really up to you, but I would definitely say that reef / water shoes would be better. Flip flops can be a bit slippery, especially when wet, and you might find your feet slip out of them. Reef shoes are more grippy and offer better support and protection. The good news is that they are pretty lightweight and fold up fairly small, so you shouldn’t have any problem fitting them in!

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16 Tried-And-True Travel Shoes (for Walking All Day)

Smart travelers know the value of great shoes. When you’re on your feet all day — whether it’s hiking a trail or walking neighborhoods in a new city — your footwear can make an enormous difference. That’s why I’m here to report on the best men’s and women’s travel shoes for walking all day.

I’m a minimalist and typically only take one or two pairs of shoes on the road. My ideal travel shoes are stylish, lightweight, and comfortable all day long. In the summer, I look for more breathable and lightweight shoes, and in winter, I crave warmth and durability.

I’ve worked at REI and traveled extensively in Europe for business and personal endeavors, so I know a thing or two about footwear that’s built for walking all day. I’m happy to share my findings on such brands as Allbirds, Lems, Xero, SeaVees, and Blundstone, as these companies make some truly stellar kicks.

This list includes sneakers, loafers, slip-ons, athletic shoes, and a few sandals that I’ve evaluated for comfort, style, packability, and other key factors.

Travel is back in a big way, so let’s dive headfirst into my list of the best men’s and women’s travel shoes money can buy.

Best Travel Shoes for Men & Women

• Best All-Around: Allbirds Tree Runners
• Best Slip-Ons: SeaVees Huntington Middie
• Zero-Drop Barefoot Shoes: Lems Primal Zen
• Zero-Drop Barefoot Boots: Lems Boulder Vegan
• All-Purpose Sneakers: Reebok Classic
• Ultra-Lightweight & Packable Slip-Ons: Xero Sunrise
• Trail Running Shoes: Salomon Wander
• Stylish Hiking Shoes: Merrell Burnt Rock
• Tough Fitness Kicks: GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
• Men’s Dress Shoes: Florsheim Oxford
• Women’s Dress Shoes: Rothy’s The Point
• Slip-On Chelsea Boots: Blundstone 550
• Minimalist Barefoot Sandals: Luna Oso Flaco
• Classy Slide-On Sandals: Birkenstock Arizona
• Unbreakable Flip Flops: Rainbow Double Layer
• Hiking Sandals: Teva Universal
• Considerations for Travel Shoes & Sandals
• Final Thoughts: Best Travel Shoes for Men & Women

Best All-Around Allbirds Tree Runners

I’m a huge fan of the Allbirds Tree Runners. They come in a wide variety of colors, and you’ll love their breathability and packability. You’ll have no problem squishing them down flat and tying them to the side of your backpack or even stuffing them into the water bottle pocket.

I criss-crossed Europe in my Allbirds and washed them several times. They held up great! The best thing about Allbirds is how lightweight they are. They’re perfect for walking all day, thanks to the stretchy material that molds to your feet.

If you’re looking for responsibly sourced and comfortable all-day shoes, I can highly recommend the Allbirds.

Best Slip-Ons SeaVees Huntington Middie

Want a slightly more stylish option than the Allbirds? The SeaVees Huntington Middie is my favorite slip-on shoe for travel. The high top and suede material make them easy to dress up or down.

SeaVees are perfect travel companions. I love the simple, minimalistic look they bring to any outfit, so they look great day and night.

Plus, they’re super comfortable and easy to slip on and off. Quite a few online reviewers say SeaVees aren’t just a travel shoe but also a go-to everyday casual shoe.

Zero-Drop Barefoot Shoes Lems Primal Zen

I recommend the Lems Primal Zens for the zero-drop traveler because they’re lightweight, versatile, and minimalist, making them excellent travel shoes.

Travel is hard on the body, and some people prefer the benefits of a zero-drop shoe with the natural fit and feel that promotes healthy walking habits. In comparison, traditional shoes can produce an unnatural gait that increases the likelihood of injury.

These Lems can handle anything – from running, hiking, working out, and walking. Their versatility and durability make them perfect for a new adventure every day when traveling.

Zero-Drop Barefoot Boots Lems Boulder Vegan

Traveling in the fall or winter? I’d opt for Lems’ Boulder Vegan Boots. The neutral colors go with any outfit, and they pack down to a size of a puff jacket, making them an easy must-carry.

Lems is a vegan-friendly Colorado brand that strives to make responsibly produced and sustainable footwear. They use recycled products to create new materials and also partner with a non-profit.

The Lems cork footbed molds to your feet and has a wide toebox, so this zero-drop style is perfect for travelers who are on their feet all day. You have a choice of materials to help you find the one that best matches your travel needs.

All-Purpose Sneakers Reebok Classic

If you’re a fan of sneakers, the Reebok Classic offers excellent support and comes in an array of colors and styles.

The downside to these shoes is their limited packability and versatility. Compared to others on this list, the Reebok Classics don’t pack down as small and don’t dress up as easily for attending those special dinner events.

I love these Reeboks because they’re highly functional and will take you to your destination in comfy sneaker style.

Ultra-Lightweight & Packable Slip-Ons Xero Sunrise

The Xero Sunrise slip-ons are the lightest and most packable shoe on this list. Weighing in at a ridiculous 5.6 ounces each (men’s size medium), these were designed for those who want a comfortable shoe to slide into when it’s time to chill.

Though I don’t recommend climbing a mountain in these or donning them during a 30,000-step marathon around the city, I do think they’d work perfectly for a relaxing night on the town, strolling around a farmers market, or kicking your feet up by the pool.

From experience, I can tell you these are about as comfortable, cozy, and convenient as travel shoes come these days. For my more relaxed trips, they’ll make it into my travel bag every single time.

Trail Running Shoes Salomon Wander

The Salomon Wander is made for trail running but also works quite well as a travel shoe. They’re versatile for active travelers who like to walk, run, and hike all day, every day.

These shoes have ample cushion that makes long walks in the city easier on your knees, but they aren’t quite as stylish as some and don’t dress up as easily.

Salomon is a trusted and well-reviewed brand, and their Wander is a fine addition to their respected product line. If you spend all day on your feet, look no further.

Stylish Hiking Shoes Merrell Burnt Rock

I love the Merrell Burnt Rock because they’re so stylish. These are ideal for travelers who like to hit the trail occasionally but also know they’ll spend most of their time in the city.

The Burnt Rock comes in various colors, and their earth-toned palette makes them about as versatile of a shoe as you’ll find on this list. The mixture of suede and mesh make them breathable like a sneaker, but with style.

Flip the shoe over and you’ll find a beautiful rubber outsole for reliable traction, yet these don’t look like hiking shoes.

Tough Fitness Kicks GORUCK Ballistic Trainers

Are you an active traveler who pushes most shoes to their limits? Or someone who will work out CrossFit-style before racing off to see the sights? Then I wholeheartedly recommend the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers.

The Ballistic Trainers are designed for the traveler who puts their shoes through hell. They’re extra supportive, with tough nylon uppers and durable triple compound rubber. These shoes are seriously durable.

Not only are they built to last, but also are stylish and versatile enough for any casual travel. They’re low-profile sneakers in neutral colors that can be paired with any casual clothing. The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers make for a perfect travel shoe for the always-on-the-move traveler.

Men’s Dress Shoes Florsheim Oxford

For men who like to travel in style, the Florsheim Oxfords are ideal shoes for looking good all day and night. I recommend these for business commuters who need to balance professionalism with their active lifestyle.

The Oxfords have a very classic, minimalist style. Their Ortholite X-40 rebound foam soles deliver non-stop comfort no matter how long you’re on your feet.

The Florsheim Oxford is a quality dress shoe that won’t break your budget. Traveling for work is often tiring, but these shoes will cushion your feet and keep the spring in your step.

Women’s Dress Shoes Rothy’s The Point

Rothy’s is a high-quality brand that’s known for transforming recycled plastic bottles into simple, stylish shoes. They have classic silhouettes and a variety of styles to match your personality.

Why have I included them on this list? Not only are they simple and packable, but they’re designed to be washed. I’ve had mine for years, and even after several washes, they look as good as new.

While they cost a bit more, the material quality and durability are well worth the price. For businesswomen on their feet all day, these are the stylish flats you’ve been wanting.

Slip-On Chelsea Boots Blundstone 550

These are my go-to winter travel shoes — versatile and stylish slip-on Chelsea boots that are easy to love. Yes, they’re one of the more expensive options here, but well worth the investment.

If I was traveling and could only bring one pair of shoes, I’d bring these. I can work, hike, or walk all day in them with no problem. Compared to the Lems, the Blundstone 550 are more durable and rugged. They do get a bit hot in warmer climates, so consider the low cuts.

Caution: Blundstone is an Australian brand, and AU and US sizes differ slightly. For example, at REI the boot size on the box is AU sizing but the size selection tool on the website is US sizing. Make sure you’re ordering the right size.

Minimalist Barefoot Sandals Luna Oso Flaco Winged Edition

If you’re traveling to a warm climate and have little need to dress up, I’d recommend the Luna Oso Flaco. In another post, I chose these as the top minimalist barefoot sandal , due to their many excellent qualities for active travelers on the go.

Weighing under one pound per pair, these are lightweight as well as super-compact. You’ll barely notice them in your suitcase or backpack.

The Oso Flaco sandals are the best zero-drop option for travelers who want to connect with the earth. Their lightweight and rugged sole makes them a great choice for your adventures.

Classy Slide-On Sandals Birkenstock Arizona

Our favorite versatile slide-on sandals are the Birkenstock Arizonas. These are a classic style that has transitioned from dorky to stylish over the years.

I sometimes travel in summer with friends who also wear these shoes. We all agree that they’re ultra-comfortable and perfect for all-day treks in the city. Whether you wake up in hostels or highrise hotels, these are reliable urban cruisers.

One caveat, however: on hot, sweaty days in these sandals, my feet sometimes get blisters, so I’ll usually opt for sneakers instead. Other than that, I love my Birkenstocks for traveling.

Unbreakable Flip-Flops Rainbow Double Layer

Rainbows are flip-flops built for the long haul. But be sure to break these in before your trip. They may be uncomfortable at first, but once they mold to your feet, you’ll never want to take them off.

I know people who have worn these for years and swear by them. As with some of the other shoes on this list, these are quite flat and packable. The two shoes sandwiched together are about the thickness of a paperback book.

The Rainbow product guarantee covers all manufacturing defects for life, no matter how old. This lifetime replacement policy is another reason to love these traveler favorites.

Hiking Sandals Teva Universal

Want a more substantial and supportive sandal than the Bedrocks? I’d point you to the Teva Universal Sandal — versatile, classic, and more affordable.

These come in several neutral colors that simplify dress-up. I had a pair with copper-colored straps that paired easily with dresses I wore for a summer in Italy.

Teva Universals are lightweight and can be easily stowed. Save space by using their Velcro straps to fasten them to the outside of your backpack.

Criteria for Travel Shoes & Sandals

This list reflects several key factors you should consider before packing your suitcase with travel shoes. Some may be more relevant than others, based on your travel needs.

No matter where you’re going, your shoes must always be comfortable, especially when the steps start to pile up. Treat your feet right by carefully considering the cushioning and breathability.

An ill-fitting pair of shoes can be distracting and even painful at times, so do your do diligence as you research shoes, read reviews, and reference the sizing guide to ensure you get the right fit.

Styling is important if a shoe is to be truly versatile. I lean more towards minimalist sneakers if I’ll be going to museums all day followed by a relaxing dinner at night. Save space in your suitcase by packing a style that complements as many of your outfits and activities as possible.

We’ve done our best to pick a wide array of shoes that will look good on anyone, and have strayed away from the dorky Rick Steves dad sneakers of the past. (Sorry, Rick.)

Laced vs. Slip-On

I often pack one pair of laced and one pair of slip-on shoes for ease of use and comfort (slip-ons) and athletic performance (laced). There are other styles to consider, too, like boots and sandals, so do your research and choose what’s best for you.

I usually wear my slip-ons for more leisurely activities and wear laced kicks for more high-intensity activities that call for more foot and ankle support.

Breathability

When you’re a high-intensity traveler who puts in a lot of steps , you need a set of footwear that’ll release the body heat that your feet produce. Otherwise, you’re looking at clammy, sweaty feet that are prone to blisters. Gross.

We did our best to pick breathable shoes that will keep your feet dry and fresh as you pile up the miles, so long as you match them up with a capable pair of travel or hiking socks .

Have you ever had a pair of cheap shoes crap out on you midway through a trip? I haven’t, but I can imagine it’d be quite the pain in the butt to replace shoes in a foreign land. I don’t have such problems with my footwear since I always pick travel shoes that are durable and built for the long haul.

To ensure you buy a pair of durable shoes, read reviews, keep a close eye on the materials used to produce them, and only buy well-reviewed products from trusted brands.

Packability

As a minimalist traveler, packability is one of my top priorities. I wear my bulkiest shoes on the airplane while packing my lighter and more compact pair, as well as my sandals.

Saving space in your minimalist travel pack is a top consideration when hitting the road, so pick shoes that’ll pack down small if you intend on traveling light .

Weight and packability go hand in hand. And lighter shoes are better when you’re carrying a weekend backpack, duffle, or suitcase. Shoes tend to be among the heaviest travel items we carry.

Noel, the founder of this website, is an ultralight backpacker who nerds out over the weight of each piece of gear in his backpack. Maybe you should too.

Affordability is another key factor. I want all of the factors listed above, but not at an unfair cost. Remember that your shoes must endure cobblestones, dirt roads, train stations, and the occasional hike. That’s why you don’t see any cheap Amazon knockoffs on this list.

We did our best to recommend an array of well-reviewed shoes across a wide range of budgets.

Which Travel Shoes Will You Lace Up?

This has been my take on the best men’s and women’s travel shoes for all day walking. All of these shoes are stylish, comfortable, durable, lightweight and breathable. With any of these, your feet will thank you for making their next travel adventure as comfy as possible.

Don’t waste a single precious travel day looking for new shoes (or band-aids) because you chose the wrong footwear. This list consists of quality brands like Allbirds, Lems, Xero, Reebok, Blundstone, and others that you can rely on. Please share your experiences in the comments section.

I’ve traveled extensively in Europe wearing several of these shoes and hope my experiences will help you more comfortably navigate all those airports, train stations, and city streets that await you in the future. May all your travel adventures be low-impact, smooth sailing, and on-time!

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

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11 of the most comfortable shoes for any kind of trip

These kicks can truly go the distance..

All products featured are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Tripadvisor may earn an affiliate commission.

The right footwear can make or break a vacation. Whether you’re increasing your daily step count while sightseeing or traversing a variety of surfaces from cobblestone to sand, there’s no doubt you’ll be on your feet more than usual when traveling.

Finding the perfect travel shoe depends on the needs of your particular feet—for instance, those with flatter feet may need more support while those with more width may need a more flexible toe box—but in general, a supportive sole and a flexible fit are keys to tackle those long, but thrilling, travel days.

Here, we honed in on a selection of shoes that can help keep you light on your feet, so that the only thing you’re focused on is the road ahead.

For walking

Hoka clifton 9 sneakers.

With their famously thick outsoles, Hoka has transcended the running shoes market and also become a popular choice for walking shoes, thanks to that extra support. The Clifton is an entry-level model into the brand, offering that iconic supportive sole at more manageable height, providing stability with just a tad of forward momentum. Known for being “light and plush,” the vegan shoe—certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)—has an EVA foam midsole and softer heel so that every step is like walking on air. Plus at just 7.3 ounces, they’re extremely lightweight and won’t bog down your luggage.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Sneaker

In the Brooks universe, “GTS” stands for “go-to shoe” for a reason: This sneaker is an all-around top choice that strikes the balance between support and softness, and even has a seal of acceptance from the APMA. Designed for road running, they’re meant to go for miles, and are constantly updated each year (like cars) with the latest innovations. The latest version, Adrenaline GTS 22, is available in more than 30 designs for women and two dozen for men , and the upper is also made of more than one-third recycled materials.

For arch support

Dansko racquel walking sandals.

If you’re heading to a warm-weather getaway (lucky you!), flip-flops may be fine for short jaunts, but for all-day comfort, turn to Dansko’s Racquel . The American brand, which was inspired by Danish clogs, is known for its natural arch support even in these walking sandals. Coupling an EVA footbed and the outsole of a sneaker, it’s basically like wearing an open-toed version of your favorite kicks. Available in six colors, the soft webbing is adjustable so you can customize it to your perfect fit.

Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boot

Winter and spring weather requires a different kind of footwear, and the Blundstone Thermal Chelsea Boot is ready to tackle the elements. With removable sheepskin shearling footbeds and Thinsulate insulation, these shoes go the distance to make sure your feet stay completely warm and dry. Topped with antique leather and elastic on the sides—all of which is waterproof—the sleek city style is more rugged than it appears. With front and back loops, they’re also easy to pull on in a pinch (like after airport security lines).

Vessi Weekend Sneakers

If you’re only going to pack one pair of shoes on vacation, this is the one. The Weekend Sneakers from Vessi check every box. They’ve got a lightweight, cushioned sole for comfortable all-day support; a flexible knit upper that’s breathable for extra give if your feet swell and relief if they sweat (both realities of travel); and most incredibly, despite appearances, they are completely waterproof (trust us, we’ve put them to the puddle test), touting a “dry socks guarantee.” On top of it, it’s made of vegan materials and can even be tossed in the washing machine between trips.

Other unisex styles

Veja esplar sneakers.

This brand is royalty approved. Meghan Markle has been spotted in the brand’s sportier V-10, while Kate Middleton has been seen wearing our top pick from the French company: the unisex Esplar sneakers . The upper is made of Uruguayan bovine leather that’s tanned in Brazil, while the soles contain Amazonian rubber. The trendy shoe takes a bit of breaking in for the leather to soften—be sure to put some miles on them before your trip—but once it does, you’ll have a good-looking shoe versatile enough to work on city trips, beach jaunts, and everything in between.

Allbirds Tree Runners

Allbirds has long been noted for its focus on comfort, and the Tree Runners step it up as one of the brand’s most lightweight options at less than 10 ounces. The breathable eucalyptus fiber slips on like a sock and is moldable to your foot (with room to grow, if your feet tend to swell, especially on plane rides). The machine washable shoe’s midsole, made from sugarcane-based EVA, has cushioning for extra comfort, and the sturdy shoelaces are made of recycled plastic bottles.

Lululemon Blissfeel 2

Last year, Lululemon entered the footwear game with sneakers that were designed for women first, as opposed to other shoes that are usually catered toward men and then sized for women. The result is one of the easiest shoes to walk in, thanks to a toe box that’s shaped for more women’s feet (they looked at more than a million women's foot shapes to come up with it). And this month they introduced the new and improved Blissfeel 2 , an everyday shoe suitable for running and walking that will make you feel like you’re strolling on a cloud no matter how far you go.

Vionic Groove Slip-On Sneaker

Often, there’s no time to bother with laces while traveling, which makes a slip-on sneaker an easy way to stay on your feet. The podiatrist-founded brand Vionic doesn’t cut corners, with an orthotic footbed inside the flexible canvas shoe to keep you on your feet longer. Made with 20 percent recycled content, they’re even machine washable, so that you can truly forge ahead, worry-free.

Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer

It’s the best of both worlds: loafer on the top and sneaker on the bottom. The upper is a classic Cole Haan style , made of leather for a timeless look. But it’s paired with multiple layers of the brand’s Grandfoam, which cradles each step with padding for extra comfort, and a thick, lightweight sole with deep grooves for traction. They’re a perfect pick for a trip that mixes business and pleasure, as they’re just as appropriate for a casual day sightseeing as they are for a client meeting.

Merrell Jungle Moc

There’s a time and place for moccasins—and that’s while traveling anywhere in the world. Merrell’s trademark pair, the Jungle Moc , has thoughtful features that will keep you comfy through even the most grueling of travel days. The air cushion in the heel helps stabilize and assists in absorbing shock. The rugged outsole has serious traction that will grip tightly on any kind of surface. And the double stretch elastic on each side makes them easy to take on and off.

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The 8 Best Slip-on Shoes for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These are the most convenient and comfortable slip-ons, according to our tests.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Other Shoes We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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

Travel + Leisure / Jamie Hergengrader

Picture this: you’re going through the TSA security line and instead of having to scramble to get your shoes back on, all you have to do is slip your foot right in and head to your gate stress-free. For a pair of convenient, comfortable, and stylish shoes, slip-on sneakers will be your travel footwear go-to.

But we won’t just talk the talk, we (literally) walked the walk and tried 23 pairs of slip-on shoes for men. From cozy clogs to sporty sneakers, we tested slip-ons from trusted footwear brands like OluKai, Vans, and Birkenstock to judge the fit, comfort, and durability of each pair. Whether you’re traversing an airport or commuting to the office, we put together a comprehensive list of various pairs of slip-ons that received high praise during testing and added tips and tricks for finding comfy footwear for your next trip.

Best Overall

Hey dude wally sox shoes.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Support 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The soles are thick and sturdy but the general feel of the shoe is weightless.

The canvas upper is very thin, so these aren’t best for rainy or damp days.

Looking for a pair of carry-on friendly slip-ons? The Hey Dude Men’s Wally sneakers are the ultimate airport-friendly shoes thanks to their ultra-lightweight design and ability to slip them on and off hands-free, which is one less thing to worry about in a TSA security line. These slip-ons earned perfect scores in all of our tests throughout months of wear.

Although the shoe is exceptionally lightweight, the sturdiness of the leather-lined rubber soles isn’t compromised, as they are plenty thick and supportive on a variety of surfaces. The equally lightweight cotton upper is breathable and soft but the fabric is very thin, so these might not be the best shoes to wear in inclement weather. There aren’t any half sizes so we recommend sizing up for a better fit, but there are adjustable no-tie laces that are very helpful if you need to tighten up the top part of the shoe.

The Details: 7 to 15 | Removable insoles

Travel + Leisure / Jared Annear

Best Casual

Olukai laeahi slip on sneakers.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The removable insoles are cushioned and supportive, making these shoes comfortable for all-day wear.

You may need to use your hands to get your foot into the shoe.

The breathable upper material, comfortable midsoles, and overall laid-back style of these OluKai slip-on sneakers make them an excellent choice for beach-goers or tropical vacationers. With a mesh upper and midsoles designed to feel like bare feet walking on sand, the compressive top material and cushioned footbed contour to the shape of the foot to fit a variety of arches and foot shapes. Best of all, the insoles can be removed and washed to boost the lifespan of the shoes. For extra versatility, the heel of the shoe is designed to drop down and lay flat to turn the sneaker into a mule style if you don’t need the extra support of the heel. If you don’t wear socks with these slip-ons, you may want to consider ordering a half-size down, as we found that the heel may slip up a bit with a looser fit.

The Details: 7 to 15 | Half sizes | Drop-in heel | Removable insoles

Travel + Leisure / Nathaniel Allen

Best Patterns

Vans classic slip-on shoes.

Dick's Sporting Goods

The canvas upper feels high quality and protective, and there are over 40 patterns and colors to choose from.

The shoes aren’t the most breathable and have a slight break-in period.

No matter what your personal style is, these iconic Vans slip-ons have a color and pattern for every traveler’s wardrobe. Out of the box, the shoes felt sturdy and slightly on the heavier side because of the thick rubber soles and canvas upper material, but durability-wise, we don’t expect the gum rubber outsole to wear down easily. The canvas upper comes in 44 different colors including checkered and solid-color prints, so you can choose the style that suits you best. There was a minor break-in period where the upper material loosened up a bit, but it didn’t cause much discomfort or any blistering, so we feel the customized and comfortable end result is worth it. Unfortunately, the materials aren’t very breathable, so they may be better suited for cooler seasons.

The Details: 3.5 to 13 | Half sizes | Canvas upper

Best Loafer

G.h. bass logan weejuns.

• Support 3 /5

These sleek loafers are made with high-quality leather and stitchwork, and have a premium look and feel to them.

There isn’t much cushioning or traction.

Whether you’re traveling to a wedding or commuting to work, these hand-sewn loafers from G.H. Bass look and feel luxurious. From heel to toe, the loafers are made with a premium-feeling leather that molds to the foot the more they are worn and they run true to size with half-size options, too. The shoe itself is sturdy, there’s plenty of room in the toe to avoid pinching, and the sides are flexible enough to accommodate wider feet, too. The interior of the shoe is unlined, so we wish there was a bit more cushioning and a softer lining, but luckily there is a good amount of arch support for added comfort. There isn’t any traction on the bottom of the loafers so you’ll want to be careful on slick surfaces like tile and airport floors.

The Details: 7 to 13 | Half sizes | Leather upper and sole | Hand-crafted

Best Splurge

Naot executive director.

The leather shoes combine the functionality of slip-ons with the nicer look of Chelsea-style boots.

There is a break-in period that may last a few weeks.

These Naot leather shoes are an investment-worthy pair of slip-ons that boast style and comfort. The rugged leather upper and thick rubber sole feel durable enough to withstand the test of time and the midsole arch support and cushioning offer exceptional comfort. Plus, they feature a unique design: they’re easy to slip on and off hands-free but look like a pair of Chelsea boots without the shaft going up the ankles. The padded heel cup and bumper add extra comfort and the arch support provides enough structure and cushioning for all-day wear at the office or out to dinner. After we wore the shoes for several weeks, the leather upper material still felt a little tight but began to loosen up the more the shoes were worn. That said, the shoes do run true to size even with the longer break-in period.

The Details: 7 to 14 | Removable insoles

Travel + Leisure / Rob Lefebvre

Birkenstock Boston Soft Clog

The cork footbed offers impressive arch support that continues to get more comfortable over time.

The leather upper isn’t very breathable.

When it comes to quickly slipping on a pair of shoes, it doesn’t get much easier than a set of clogs from Birkenstock. The leather upper gives the clogs a more rugged and outdoorsy look while the suede-lined cork footbed adds an abundance of comfort thanks to the arch support and contoured heel. With zero break-in period required, these Birkenstocks are comfortable right away and are designed to continue molding to the shape of the foot for a custom fit over time — something we already noticed after just a few weeks of wearing them. Although there isn’t a true heel like with other slip-on sneakers we tried, the cupped heel of the clogs helps with stability and there is a strap that rests on the top of the foot so the tightness can be adjusted as needed.

The Details: 6 to 17.5 | Standard/wide and medium/narrow options | Adjustable straps

Best with Laces

Kizik men's lima.

• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Value 4.6 /5
• Quality 5 /5

They're breathable and made of high-quality materials that are sure to last.

The looser heel takes some getting used to.

Users who want the convenience of a slip-on shoe but the adjustability of a lace-up will love the Kizik Limas. They provide plenty of cushion for staying on your feet and feel spacious. The heel is wide enough that you can slip these on and off without morphing the structure, but aren't so loose that it causes heel chafing. Plus, the adjustable laces allow you to tighten these slip-ons as much as you need to feel secure. We found the Limas are so breathable, you can even wear them without socks while staying comfortable and sweat-free. The shoes are made of high-quality Rabbit foam outsoles for added cushion and traction as well as a durable knit upper that won't rip as you pop into these shoes and rush out the door.

The Details: 4.5 to 15 | Standard, wide, and extra-wide options | Adjustable laces

Best Lightweight

Seavees hawthorne slip on.

• Support 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The tall heel bumper prevented the back of our foot from slipping.

They provide little to no arch-support.

At just 12.8 ounces per pair, these lightweight shoes are both comfortable to wear and easy to pack — perfect for any warm-weather vacation. We found these shoes to fit true to size and be comfortable right out of the box. They did not cause any chafing, blistering, or red spots, even after wearing for long days of walking. The upper is made of light canvas and a natural rubber outsole so the shoe is quite breathable and cool.

We especially love how easy these are to slip on and off without using our hands at all. While they provide very little arch support, we like that the design is bendable enough to shove into checked or carry-on bags without much strategy. After our full test, they only show signs of wear and tear on the sole, the canvas upper still looks great and these slip-ons have become our go-to choice for when you need to head out the door in a hurry.

The Details: 7 to 17 | Half sizes

Other Slip-on Shoes for Men We Liked

We tried a number of super comfortable slip-on shoes and while we still recommend the shoes highlighted below, they fell short during testing due to minor issues with comfort and fit.

Casca Men’s Avro : These no-tie sneakers don’t have much arch support (which could be good for flat feet), but they have a nicer look to them for going into the office or out to dinner and the construction felt very sturdy and durable.

Tropicfeel Sunset : Ideal for those looking for everyday sneakers, the no-tie laces give these shoes a casual style while the high-quality construction adds support. There could be a bit more arch support, but there is still enough cushioning for comfort.

After wearing 22 sets of slip-on shoes for at least two weeks, we evaluated each pair based on comfort, support, durability, and fit. We tried a variety of styles including men's loafers , sneakers, clogs, and boat shoes to find a pick for every traveler. We took thorough notes and paid close attention to the break-in period (if there was one), the amount of arch support provided, and the durability of the shoes after wearing them while walking around the city, commuting to work, traveling through an airport, and running errands. To get a feel for the arch support, we wore the shoes for multiple hours at a time and tried to bend them in half to see how sturdy they were. In the end, our favorite pairs of slip-on shoes are easy to get on and off hands-free, feel sturdy enough to stand the test of time, and provide all-day comfort whether we’re sprinting through an airport or sightseeing in a new city.

Tips for Buying Slip-on Shoes for Men

Prioritize comfort.

Arch support, cushioning, and soft materials all play a factor in wearing a comfortable shoe, especially for long periods of time. Upper and lining materials like knit, leather, and suede will be softer on the top of the foot and help prevent chafing, and a heel bumper will keep the back of the foot in place and stop it from potentially blistering. Midsoles should have arch support and cushioning built-in, but if you prefer to use custom insoles , make sure the included insoles are removable.

Look for a snug fit

You should be able to slide your foot into a slip-on shoe without using your hands but you’ll still want the fit to be on the more snug side. If the fit is loose, your heel will lift up which could cause blisters and make it feel less secure while walking or running. Depending on whether or not you wear socks with the shoes can also play a role with the fit, so consider sizing down if you don’t like to wear socks or sizing up if you tend to wear thicker socks.

Consider where you’ll be wearing them

If you’re planning on wearing slip-ons in the summer, be sure to look for breathable upper materials like mesh or cotton to help combat sweaty feet in the warmer months. For colder weather, opt for wool or synthetic materials that may be waterproof or thicker for warmth and protection against the elements.

Wearing a pair of socks or no-show socks can be super beneficial, especially if you’re breaking in your pair of slip-on shoes or if the fit of the shoe is a bit loose. Wearing socks can also help absorb moisture from the feet and prevent chafing on the sides or heels of your feet, so wearing them has benefits.

Slip-on shoes with the right comfort and support features can definitely be good for walking. You’ll want to look for arch support, cushioning, and soft materials to factor in comfort and consider breaking in the shoes before bringing them traveling to prevent possible blisters or pain from disrupting your trip.

We recommend you defer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning a pair of shoes to ensure the longevity of the materials. Some slip-ons can be machine washed and others require delicate spot cleaning, so you’ll want to double check beforehand.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure Commerce Writer Anna Popp reviews travel products and writes almost all of the team’s tested content. She participates in nearly every travel test, including the women’s slip-on shoe test. Anna worked with our editors and sifted through testing insights to compile this list of the best slip-on shoes for men.

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The Best Tennis Shoes For Men, According To Players Around The Country

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Tennis is a great workout with bursts of speed, quick stops and starts, and rapid cuts across the court. The best tennis shoes for men give you extra protection against potential injuries and boost your performance so you can win more matches. After talking to more than a dozen players and pros around the U.S., we selected the Asics Gel Resolution 9 as the best overall pick. If you have wide feet, New Balance’s Fuel Cell 996v5 is your best bet, and if you play on clay, you’ll want Asics’ Solution Speed FF 3 Clay to provide optimal traction. Ahead, you’ll find all the best tennis shoes for men that we highly recommend.

We rounded up tennis sneakers that offer unmatched support, comfort and stability.

• Best Tennis Shoes Overall: Asics Gel Resolution 9
• Best Tennis Shoes For Narrow Feet: NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2
• Best Tennis Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis: K-Swiss Bigshot LIGHT 4
• Best Tennis Shoes For Wide Feet: New Balance FuelCell 996v5
• Best Tennis Shoes For Ankle Support: YONEX Men's Power Cushion Eclipsion 4
• Best Tennis Shoes For Clay: Asics Solution Speed FF3 Clay
• Best Tennis Shoes For Flat Feet: HYPERCOURT EXPRESS 2
• Best Affordable Tennis Shoes: Prince T22 Tennis Shoes

Best Tennis Shoes Overall

Speed and stability for baseline players, asics gel resolution 9.

Sizes:  6 to 15 |  Width:  Standard |  Colors:  5 |  Material:  Mesh and resin | Ideal Surface:  Hard court but they make a version for clay as well |  Special feature:  Separated outsole design for stable landings

• What’s notable:  There is extra stability in the midfoot and heel, and Dynawrap tech in the lace area offers a snug, bespoke fit.
• What could be better:  It takes them a little while to soften and stretch out.

Baseline players need extra stability to support quick side-to-side movements as they race to hit a forehand—and then immediately change direction to hit a backhand. Asics wisely extended their Dynawall technology into the heel area for increased lateral stability, and they redesigned the Dynawrap technology in the lace area to give feet a locked-in feeling. To prevent shoes from wearing down, they threw in Pguard technology to boost forefoot durability. And like many Asics sneakers, this one has gel technology to provide excellent shock absorption and keep feet comfortable.

What the experts say:  Chuck Milot, director of tennis and pickleball at Woodway Country Club in Darien, Connecticut, says that Asics are definitely the most popular tennis shoes right now, and we also heard this from two pros at The Sea Island Club in Georgia. The Resolution 9’s also tend to be a favorite of serious tennis players like Gordon Gallagher, a student at the Smith Sterns Tennis Academy in Hilton Head, North Carolina. Gallagher plays for five to six hours a day, and likes the Resolutions 9’s because “they are lightweight and fast, are and easy to slide in.”

Best Tennis Shoes For Narrow Feet

Lightweight shoe with a snug fit, nikecourt air zoom vapor pro 2.

Sizes:  6 to 14  | Width:  Regular  | Colors:  6  | Material:  Reinforced Mesh |  Ideal surface:  Hard court  |Special feature:  A forefoot Zoom air unit

• What’s notable:  It’s lightweight and offers exceptional speed and stability.
• What could be better:  While less rubber in the sole increases speed it can affect durability.

If you are one of those guys who beats opponents down in long, grueling matches, this is the shoe for you. It’s low to the ground and lightweight (Nike actually removed some rubber to shave off a few ounces), which helps you chase down balls, and a Zoom air unit tucked into the forefoot offers explosive speed. From a stability standpoint, there is a full-foot frame on the outside, and the herringbone outsole is durable and dependable on hard courts. To keep the shoe feeling snug (and fast) Nike thoughtfully added a stretchy internal sleeve.

What the experts say:   “I love this shoe because it has a low center of gravity and puts my feet more on court level as opposed to sitting higher,” says Zac Sargent who lives in Hingham, Massachusetts, and has been playing tennis for more than a decade. “Plus, it’s lightweight, easy to break in, and has great support and stability.” Sargent also likes the extra protection in the toe area to support drag during his serve.

Best Tennis Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis

Soothes sore feet, k-swiss bigshot light 4.

Sizes:  7 to 15|  Width:  Standard   | Colors:  6 | |  Material:  Synthetic leather |  Ideal surface:  Hard court and clay|  Special feature:  EVA sockliner

• What’s notable:  It’s a comfortable, cushioned shoe with sufficient stability, and it comes with a 180-day warranty.
• What could be better:  The shoe’s traction isn’t as good as some other models, and it may be too wide for those with a narrow foot.

The Bigshot has compression-molded EVA foam in the midsole and a sock liner, which provides extra comfort for those who suffer from foot ailments like plantar fasciitis, and it’s breathable enough to keep feet cool in warm conditions. It also has a sturdy rubber outsole and a textile collar lining.

What the experts say:  Tennis pro Bob Hardman, who played college tennis at St. Cloud State in Minnesota and Ferris State in Michigan, swears by the Bigshot Light 4. “As soon as I start to feel plantar fasciitis coming on, I break in a new pair of K-Swiss BigShot Lights and it goes away,” he says. “They are tight when you first start wearing them but once you break them in—I usually walk around in them for a couple of weeks before running in them on the court—they are comfortable and durable.”

Best Tennis Shoes For Wide Feet

Roomy upper gives toes plenty of wiggle room.

New Balance United States of America

New Balance FuelCell 996v5

Sizes:  7 to 13 |  Width:  Standard and Wide |  Colors:  1 at New Balance but there are five on Amazon| Material: Mesh |  Ideal Surface:  Hard court |  Special feature:  NDure Technology for durability

• What’s notable:  It comes in a wide width, it’s durable without being heavy, and it has a six-month outsole warranty.
• What could be better:  Some say the ankle area is a little uncomfortable.

If you have wide feet, you want to wear New Balance. The brand is famous for its spacious toeboxes, and this shoe comes in wide if you need extra space. On top of offering a great fit, the FuelCell is exceptionally durable thanks to NDure technology in the upper and the full-length Ndurance outsole that protects high-wear areas on the outside of the shoe. FuelCell foam offers cushioning and keeps feet feeling bouncy.

What the experts say:  “It’s super light and durable, and it’s better for players who can’t wear narrow shoes like the Nike Vapor,” says Christian Amundsen, who played tennis at Boston College and still plays competitively.

Best Tennis Shoes For Ankle Support

Superior stability in every step, yonex men's power cushion eclipsion 4.

Sizes:  6.5 to 13 |  Width:  Standard |  Colors:  3|  Material: Mesh| Ideal Surface:  Hard court |  Special feature:  The outsole is made from non-marking rubber.

• What’s notable: Several forms of stability technology keep feet and ankles supported at all times.
• What could be better: While this shoe is wider than its predecessor, it still runs a little narrow, and some may find it a little heavy.

Yonex’s shoes don’t have the same cult following as their racquets—but they should. They are stars when it comes to stability, offering a Synchro-Fit insole to provide support in the front of the heel, a Tru-Heel Stabilizer in the heel, durable skin on the forefoot to keep feet in place, and 3D Power Graphite Drive in the midfoot. They have a snug fit around the ankles to add extra support, and plenty of cushioning (called Feather Bounce Foam and Power Cushion+) in the midsole for comfort.

What the experts say: While tennis players often want lightweight shoes, when you need stability—especially in the ankle—a heartier shoe is a better choice. “This shoe’s weight is a nice medium range—not too heavy and not too light—and offer great stability and comfort on the court,” says Ignacio Berasain, a tennis coach and pro at Chelsea Piers Connecticut and head pro at Woodway Country Club in Darien, Connecticut.

Best Tennis Shoes For Clay

Grip and flexibility for softer surfaces, asics solution speed ff3 clay.

Sizes: 6 to 15| Width: Standard | Colors: 3| Material: Mesh | Ideal surface: Clay | Special feature: Clay outsole

• What’s notable: They are very lightweight and provide excellent traction on clay courts.
• What could be better: They aren’t as cushy and supportive as some other models.

Tennis on clay is a slower, longer, trickier game. Balls skip and die, so you need a shoe to help you sprint to the net to return drop shots, and that’s responsive enough for the footwork required to deal with funky bounces. The Solution Speed FF3 lives up to its name by helping you accelerate on slow clay courts. Speedtruss technology boosts speed and agility and Flytefoam tech offers enough cushioning to keep feet comfortable during long matches. They also have an Ahar Plus rubber sole specially designed for durability on clay.

What the experts say: Jimmy Broder played tennis at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and still plays high-level tennis in Connecticut and on Nantucket—primarily on clay courts. He has tried dozens of shoes over the years and his shoe of choice is Asics. “They are reliable, lightweight, comfortable and durable,” he says.

Best Tennis Shoes For Flat Feet

Extra support for fallen arches, k-swiss hypercourt express 2.

Sizes:  7 to 14  |Width:  Standard and Wide  | Colors:  14 |  Material:  Synthetic leather |  Ideal surface : They can be worn on any surface, but KSwiss does make a Hypercourt Express specifically for clay|  Special feature : Durawrap Flex support

• What’s notable:  The shoe comes in a wide width, has a flexible molded rubber overlay for extra stability, and is very durable.
• What could be better:  Even those with wider feet sometimes find these too wide.

This is K-Swiss’ best-selling tennis shoe, and with good reason. It’s the kind of shoe that offers something for everyone: It has a Durawrap rubber outershell which keeps feet stable as you chase down balls, plenty of compression-molded EVA foam in the midsole, and a molded Ortholite sock liner for comfort and extra support for flat feet. The roomy fit is perfect for those with wide feet or who suffer from foot problems like bunions.

What the experts say : I have flat feet and wear the women’s version of these. The molded sock liner offers comfort and support in the arch area, and the shoes are roomy enough to add your own custom orthotic. My husband wears these too, as does Leland Hart, one of the top tennis players at my club. He needs to wear ankle braces and likes how the Hypercourt Express 2 has enough room to accommodate the braces. Plus, “the shoes are super light and have great cushioning,” he says.

Best Affordable Tennis Shoes

High quality for a low cost, prince t22 tennis shoes.

Sizes: 7.5 to 13 Width: Standard | Colors: 2| Material: Faux leather with mesh panels| Ideal surface : Appropriate for all surfaces | Special feature: They comes with two different sets of laces so you can customize your look.

• What’s notable: They are reasonably priced, breathable and offer ample shock absorption.
• What could be better: They only come in two colors, and they may not be quite as comfortable as some other models.

Keeping feet cushioned and stable during hours of play takes technology—and that technology often comes at a high price tag. But the Prince T22 offers a lot of value for a relatively low cost. You get EVA cushioning in the midsole, a ShockEraser heel insert, and a SoftSpring insert to disperse shock in the forefoot. The shank made from thermoplastic polyurethane provides stability, and new mesh panels keep feet cool in the heat.

What the experts say: Broder has worn these and always found them to be a dependable shoe for a reasonable price. “I don’t think there is a huge difference between expensive shoes and shoes like these that are under $100,” he says.

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We always consult with top experts in each field—in this case, tennis pros and competitive players—to determine the best shoes for each type of athlete.

• Our team of testers is always trying out shoes—from old favorites to ones with the newest, most cutting-edge technology—to determine which ones are the most comfortable and durable.
• We conduct exhaustive research on shoes to find which ones meet our high standards for comfort, performance, durability and affordability. This includes speaking with product developers at companies, sifting through studies and reading up on the latest sneaker news.
• The Forbes Vetted team analyzes customer reviews for all of the shoes we recommend to ensure that consumers are not only happy with their purchase, but are also satisfied with the customer service and delivery experience. (A shoe can be great, but if you don’t get it in time for your big match, or the wrong one is sent, it’s not going to do you any good.)

How We Chose The Best Tennis Shoes For Men

• We asked more than a dozen tennis pros and players from all around the country for the shoes that help them ace their matches. We made sure to talk to guys of all ages and skill levels to ensure there is something for everyone on this list. These shoes reflect their top picks.

• This story was written by Forbes Vetted contributing writer Lesley Rotchford , who plays on three different tennis teams and is captain of her country club team. She has vast knowledge of tennis shoes and apparel from years of playing competitive tennis—and has written about tennis and pickleball for various national publications. She weighed in on these picks as well, and has worn some of the shoes on the list that come in a women’s model.

• We cross referenced our testers’ choices with product reviews to ensure our picks are highly rated by consumers.

What To Consider About Tennis Shoes

The best type of material for tennis shoes depends on your climate. “In the winter time I like leather because it offers better support. But an all-leather shoe is too hot for the summer,” says Chuck Milot, director of tennis and pickleball at Woodway Country Club in Darien, Connecticut. If you play in hot weather, choose a more breathable shoe, made out of a material like mesh.

Running shoes are built to propel you forward, but tennis involves a lot of quick side-to-side movement—so ample lateral stability is needed to prevent you from tripping or rolling your ankle. “Lateral support is important especially for a single players, who do a lot of running side to side,” says Milot.

With tennis matches sometimes lasting three plus hours, the average player is spending a lot of time on the court (more time than they are playing most other sports). This is why proper cushioning is so important. Look for shoes that have EVA or polyurethane midsole cushioning to keep feet comfortable during your game, but that are still light enough to allow for quick movements and direction changes. If you’re an older player with a history of injuries, you are better off airing on the side of cushioning. On the flip side, younger, dynamic players will often forgo the extra padding for a faster shoe that offers quicker recovery between shots.

Hard court services are as tough on your shoes as they are on your body. Because the unforgiving surface chews up shoes fast, it’s important to find tennis shoes with a durable sole that can withstand hours of running around on the court, and that have a solid, built-up toe area to stand up to toe drag. “Toe drag happens when a player is serving,” explains Milot. “As a right-handed player, I push off more with my right foot and drag my right toe, so the first part of my shoes to wear down is the right toe area.”

Style Of Play

Anyone who plays tennis is going to be doing a fair amount of running, lunging and sliding on the court, but a person’s particular style of play can factor into their choice of shoes. Players who like to hang back at the baseline need different things out of their shoes than net or doubles players. “A singles player may want a more high tech form-fitted shoe because of all the movement required,” says Milot. Those who rush the net may benefit from more support in the front of the foot.

Size And Width

Dashing across the court to return an angled shot, or sprinting forward to get a drop shot, can cause your feet move around in your shoes which compromises speed and stability. You want a snug—but not tight—fit that keeps your feet firmly locked into your shoes. If you have wide feet or bunions, choose a shoe that comes in a wide width to prevent irritation.

If you are a high-level player who is out there smacking balls daily on hard courts, you may want to consider a shoe that offers an outsole warranty. These warranties aren’t that common, but a few brands do offer them on some of their heavier shoes. (Lightweight shoes aren’t built to last as long.) Shoes that have this warranty include the K-Swiss Ultrashot 3 and the New Balance 996v5 .

Can You Wear Non-White Tennis Shoes At Tennis Clubs?

It depends. Some private clubs have strict all-white dress codes, which extends to shoes. Whether you are allowed a green swoosh or blue shoelaces depends on the club; some allow for a certain percentage of non-white details, while others don’t. If you are playing at an old-school, conservative club, read the dress code rules on the website, or call to ask about their policy before showing up to play.

Can You Wear Running Shoes Or Fashion Tennis Sneakers To Play Tennis?

No. To prevent injury it’s very important to choose a shoe that is specifically made for playing tennis. Running shoes are built to propel you forward, and don’t have enough lateral stability to prevent you from tripping or rolling your ankle while crisscrossing the court. While fashion “tennis” shoes are inspired by vintage low-profile tennis sneakers, they don’t have the level of cushioning or support that’s needed for today’s faster, more athletic game.

Does Level of Play—Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced—Matter When It Comes To Choosing Shoes?

Yes and no. While you can certainly wear the same shoes as the pros, it’s probably not necessary if you are new to the sport of just play recreationally. For example, “at the country club level, the most important thing to look for is comfort,” says Milot.

Can You Wear The Same Shoes To Play On Hard Courts And Clay?

You can, but it may affect the condition of your shoes—and the condition of the court. As a rule of thumb, “a clay court shoe has a softer tread that gives you grip but doesn't dig up the court, while a hard court shoe has a thicker, tougher sole built to last longer,” says Milot. To tell the difference between a clay shoe and a hard court shoe, flip over the shoe and look at the tread. A clay tread generally features a full, flat herringbone sole, which is grippy on soft clay courts but keeps clay from getting wedged into the tread. Hard court shoes usually have a partial herringbone pattern mixed in with other groove shapes to improve traction and maneuverability. The downside to wearing clay shoes on a hard court is that the hard surface will wear down your shoes quickly; the downside to wearing hard court shoes on a clay court is that the heavier treads may chew up the clay.

How Often Should You Replace Your Tennis Shoes?

According to the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine , the midsoles of tennis sneakers last for approximately 45 to 60 hours of tennis—and outersoles will go even quicker (depending on how much you play, it can be a matter of weeks). Since it’s hard to keep track of how many hours you play, just periodically check the bottom of your shoes for wear. If you see that the tread is wearing down in a certain area, or you start slipping on the court, it’s time for new shoes.

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Sign up for essence newsletters the keep the black women at the forefront of conversation., the best walking shoes for traveling and everyday wear.

When traveling , comfort is key—especially as it relates to footwear. Between navigating the airport terminals and exploring your destination, you’ll spend a significant amount of time on your feet . But with a comfortable walking shoe, you can keep your feet pain-free and supported throughout your journey. Below, I’ve rounded up my top picks—all carefully reviewed.

Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 is the best overall. Its responsive cushioning provides support and impact absorption, making it perfect for long days of exploration. But they are pricey, so if you’re looking for comfortable walking shoes that won’t break the bank, consider Asics Women’s Gel-Contend Walking Shoe , an affordable pick. Here, more great options for comfortably going the distance.

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17 Best Women’s Slip-On Shoes for Travel

Posted: October 19, 2023 | Last updated: October 19, 2023

For travelers without TSA PreCheck , wearing shoes that easily slide on and off makes navigating airport security checkpoints a tad more efficient. Let’s face it, we’ve all been the passenger with mere minutes to make it to the gate on time, and some footwear just isn’t meant for beating the clock ( hiking boots , strappy sandals , most lace-ups ). Beyond efficiency, those who have their hands full—traveling with kids comes to mind—or who face mobility challenges may also appreciate this type of travel-friendly shoe.

As a travel writer who is frequently moving through airports, I've faced this dilemma before, and have a few personal favorite pairs to share, but I've also asked fellow frequent fliers what women's slip-on shoes they can't live without. When possible, we lean toward sustainable and versatile options for those tricky packing scenarios when there is simply no space for an extra pair of kicks in your carry-on .

Whether your priority is fashion, comfort, or function, here are 17 slip-on shoes that pair well with most any travel itinerary, starting with a few top picks. (For even more styles, check out our roundup of the best men's slip-on shoes .)

• Most versatile: Sabah slip-on
• Best loafer: Rothy's The Lug Loafer
• Best recovery shoe: Hoka Ora Recovery Shoe 2
• Most comfortable: Koolaburra Tizzey
• Best mule: Gucci Princetown mule

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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Rothy's The Lug Loafer

Allbirds Wool Runners

Koolaburra Tizzey

Kizik Prague slip-on

Samuel Hubbard Free Spirit leather Drivers

Cole Haan Original Grand Platform Venetian Loafer

Eddie Bauer Haller slip-on

Hoka Ora Recovery Shoe 2

Rothy's The Point II

Gucci Princetown Loafer Mule

Keen Elle Suede mule

Bizu Moya Ballerina

OluKai Pehuea Lī ‘Ili leather sneaker

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 slip-on

Clarks Un Rio Tie

Soul Naturalizer Kemper Slip-On Sneaker

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15 Best Men's Summer Shoes for Every Occasion

From comfortable white sneakers, stylish sandals, suede penny loafers, and everything in between.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Because online shoe shopping can feel like navigating a minefield, we made the work easy for you by rounding up some of our favorite styles of the season based on designs, materials, and budget. Whether you're looking for a casual pair for everyday wear or want a dressier option for special occasions , ahead you'll find the very best men's summer shoes to add to your seasonal collection.

The Horsebit Loafers

Gucci men's loafer with horsebit.

The Boat Shoes

Ralph lauren merton leather boat shoe.

The Suede Loafers

Loro piana sea-sail walk loafers.

The Driving Loafers

Tod's gommino driving shoe.

Todd Snyder Nomad Suede / Leather Crossover Sandal

The Statement Makers

J.m. weston suede loafers.

The White Sneakers

Common projects original achilles sneaker.

The Breezy Pair

Manolo blahnik mario leather-trimmed raffia loafers.

The Espadrilles

Frescobol carioca helio suede espadrilles.

The Sandals

Saint laurent culver leather sandals.

Because there's always room for another pair of Gucci's horsebit loafers.

Material: Suede

Size Range: 5.5-14.5

No summer shoe collection is complete with the humble boat shoe, and Ralph Lauren's iteration is classic as it gets.

One reviewer writes: "Comfort, versatile and easy to wear are the best adjectives to describe these shoes. I can wear boat shoes all day everyday with confidence that my foot will not hurt. I appreciate the ability to wear these casual shoes any and every where needed."

Material: Leather

Size Range: 7-15

Loro Piana is the latest luxury brand giving boat shoes the designer treatment in 2o24. Featuring a supple suede upper, flexible footbed, and durable rubber soles for extra grip, this minimalist pair is the product of fine Italian craftsmanship.

Size Range : 39-46

Originally created in the '60s for men who wanted extra grip while sitting behind the wheel, Tod's driving shoes are versatile enough for casual- and formal-wear alike.

Size Range : 7-13

Handcrafted by artisans in Tuscany, these leather slides feature a suede cushioned footbed that comfortably hugs the feet with each and every step. Slide them on with a pair of shorts during the day or linen pants for evening outings.

One reviewer reports: "These look great with jeans or shorts and are the most comfortable sandals yet."

Material: Leather/suede

Size Range: 8-13

These bright blue espadrille-loafers were made for having fun in the sun.

Material: Suede/jute

Size Range : UK7-UK11

Like the little black dress of footwear, white sneakers can be dressed up and down without a second thought.

One shopper says: "Excellent white sneakers that were specifically what I was looking for. Clean, sleek and versatile! Comfortable!"

Size Range: 6-14

On blistering hot days when leather feels like a no-go, Manolo Blahnik's elegant raffia loafers are the answer to your outfit woes.

Material: Raffia/leather

Size Range : UK6-UK13

Espadrille flats are having a huge moment in the women's shoe department, and men's styles are just as comfortable, lightweight, and breezy.

Material: Suede/straw

Size Range: 40-46

Forget flip flops: these strappy sandals will have you looking put together and polished by the pool.

Size Range: EU39-EU45

Vince Fletcher Loafer

For a fuss-free sneaker you can slip and on off with ease, you can't go wrong with sporty slip-ons. Vince's pair also features perforations that lend to comfy breathability.

One shopper says: "Excellent sneaker, can be dressed up or dressed down."

Size Range: 7-13

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed

Would this really be a best men's summer shoe roundup without a pair of Birkenstock's cult-classic Arizonas?

One shopper says: "I’ve worn Birkenstock for over 20 years! They are the most comfortable sandal on the market!"

Size Range: 7-13.5

Peter Millar Excursionist Penny Loafer

When shopping for summer loafers, opt for muted colors and airier materials. This sage penny loafer-sneaker hybrid is exactly what we had in mind.

One shopper says: "I love these loafers, and have bought a pair in all the colors. They are great looking, fit extremely well and are made of top-notch construction."

Size Range: 8-12

Brunello Cucinelli Suede Loafers with Tassels

When you want to kick your casual footwear game up a notch, you turn to Brunello Cucinelli. Case in point: these suede tasseled loafers will add oomph to an otherwise understated outfit.

Size Range: 6-13

Scarosso Andrea Nero Loafers

Black leather makes this pair formal, while the woven details add a touch of texture and breezy flair with every step.

Size Range: 39-48

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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The 9 Best Zero-Drop Shoes for Building Foot Strength, According to Podiatrists

Plus, here’s exactly what “zero drop” means in the first place, and why you might want this shoe style in your closet.

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To adventurists, “zero drop” may sound like a new ski trail rating. And to musicians and ravers, it may sound like an insult for DJs. But on the shoe front, zero-drop names a category of footwear that is level from toes-to-arch, arch-to-heel . 

“ Zero drop shoes are shoes that have the same sole thickness from the heel to the toe, and therefore have no elevation,” explains Alissa Kuizinas , M.D., a virtual podiatrist and ankle wellness specialist. Indeed, if you held a protractor against the shoe, you’d see that there is no angle at all between either end of the shoe. Zero-drop shoes can be a confusing category, especially if you’re used to ultra-cushioned shoes with a significant heel-to-toe drop. We researched, analyzed, and tested the most popular zero-drop shoes on the market for strength training , running , hiking , and more. These are the best zero-drop shoes for building foot strength and stability .

• Xero Shoes Women's Mesa Trail II Running Shoe is lightweight and has great traction, making it ideal for different workouts, and fits wide feet.
• Altra Running Women's Paradigm 7 is a well-cushioned running shoe that feels breathable and comfortable—just keep in mind it runs small.

Best Zero-Drop Shoes Overall

Xero shoes women's mesa trail ii running shoe.

Why We Like It: Great for trail running, hiking, and off-road roaming, the Xero Mesa Trail II is the ultimate adventure buddy. 

It's Worth Noting: The toe-box is intentionally wide to allow your toes to spread and grip the ground. It may be too wide for folks with narrow feet. 

Sizes: 5-12 | Available in wide: No | Activity: Trail runner

If you’re running on rocks or rubble, dog-walking on dirt, or petering up peaks, the Mesa Trail II are the best zero-drop shoes for you. The grippy foam keeps you steady while you scamper, as well as protects your bottom foot from the sharp edges of gravel, roots, and other ~earthly happenings~. Weighing in at under 7 ounces (for all sizes), the Mesa Trail II is also more lightweight than most other trail shoes and hikers on the market — zero drop and otherwise. In addition to offering greater overall comfort to you, the wearer, this means you can trust that your feet won’t overheat even when your top half is dripping sweat.

Best Zero-Drop Running Shoes

Altra running women’s paradigm 7.

Why We Like It: More cushioned than most zero-drop shoes, you’ll feel like you’re gliding through the streets when you lace-up your Paradigm 7.

It's Worth Noting: The shoe fits slightly small. If you are between two sizes, size up.

Sizes: 5.5-12 | Available in wide: No | Activity: Running

At first glance, these zero-drop shoes from Altra look like the oh-so-cushioned and ever-so-popular Hoka shoes . But the reason that these shoes are so, well, tall isn’t because they have a heel drop — it’s because the entirety of the foot sits 30 mm above the ground. We felt these shoes had a nice width that comfortably accommodated our feet without leaving us prone to blisters. We took these on a few test runs in the hot Alabama summer sun, and we were pleasantly surprised at how breathable the mesh on the upper was — even during our sweatiest runs, the mesh dried quickly and prevented swamp foot. In fact, our favorite test runs in the Paradigms were track workouts and fartlek runs where we could really open up our stride and fly.

Best Zero-Drop Shoes for Strength Training

Altra solstice xt 2.

Why We Like It: Built for strength and cross-training, these shoes are both sturdy and flexible. 

It's Worth Noting: If you’re used to traditional strength trainers, this lighter-weight option will be an adjustment. 

Sizes: 5.5-12 | Available in wide: No | Activity: Cross training, weightlifting, powerlifting, CrossFit

The gold medal strength training zero drop shoe is the Altra Running Women’s Solstice XT 2. At just 8 ounces, the shoe itself weighs more than other zero-drop shoes on this list. Plus, this strength-training shoe features a wide toe box that allows you to splay your toes for additional support and lower-body activation, which increases your ability to access your own strength. The result? You lift heavier, which over time improves your overall strength and muscular endurance. 

Best Zero-Drop Shoes Under $100

Merrell vapor glove 6.

Why We Like It: The outsole is grippy and secure, while the upper is mesh and breathable. 

It's Worth Noting: Merrell recommends ordering a half a size smaller than your usual size. 

Sizes: 5-11 | Available in wide: No | Activity: Trail running, road running, walking

Merrell's most minimalist shoe to date, the Merrell Women’s Vapor Glove has a Vibram® EcoStep outsole that wraps the foot to maximize grip and connection and a breathable mesh upper to keep feet cool. Just 5.29 ounces, the shoe is lightweight — but its weightlessness doesn’t interfere with its ability to protect your foot. Fact is, the outsole is indestructible against tar, track, or trail matter. Personally, we love donning these during multi-movement strength and plyometrics circuits because the grippy outsole helps us grip the plyometric box while the wide toe box enables us to grip the ground for additional stability.

Best Zero-Drop Shoes for Wide Feet

Be lenka trailwalker barefoot shoes.

Why We Like It: The unique TrailGrip sole makes it easy for adventurers’ feet to grip onto mountain trails. 

It's Worth Noting: The shoe is made from leather, which means they take longer to break in. 

Sizes: 36-47 | Available in wide: Yes | Activity: Trail walking

The Be Lenka Trailwalker may look like a rock climbing shoe, but true to its name it’s designed for trail walking, forest hikes, and dirt-path dog walking. A durable rubber outsole wraps around the entirety of the shoe, protecting the bottom and side of your food from outdoor soot and debris. Meanwhile, the upper is made from a combination of premium leather and rubber. (Yes, the leather is water-resistant.) At the tail of each shoe are hooks, so you can easily attach them to your gym bag or fanny pack.

Best Zero-Drop Shoes for Narrow Feet

Vivobarefoot primus trail iii all weather fg.

Vivobarefoot

Why We Like It: This water-resistant shoe will grip even the wettest, slippiest of grounds. 

It's Worth Noting: This shoe fits small, so the brand recommends moving one size up. 

Sizes: 5.5-11.5 | Available in wide: No | Activity: Trail running, outdoor walking, and hiking

Do you like to run in the rain? Do you have narrow feet? If you answered ‘YES’ to both of these questions, then you should look into Vivobarefoot Primus Trail III All Weather. The most durable zero-drop shoe on the list, these feature a firm ground outsole that hugs the ground — even on wet and rainy days. Meanwhile, the insole is a special insole called an Active Ortholite Performance Insole, which is made of 98 percent recycled PU foam. There is also a snug collar fit that you can lace up to keep grit and debris out. 

Best Zero-Drop Dress Shoes

Vivobarefoot ra iii womens.

Why We Like It: These sleek oxfords make zero-drop comfort accessible to worker bees and world travelers. 

It's Worth Noting:  The sole is thin, but the puncture-resistant finish helps protect your feet therein. 

Sizes: 5.5-11.5 | Available in wide: No | Activity: Casual 

Visually the love-child of Clarks and Vans, these lightweight-leather lace-up shoes feature an ultra-thin sole that allows you to grip the ground while you move and groove. One of the best parts of the shoe is how flexible they are. Not only does this mean that your feet can flex naturally when you wear them, it also means the shoe is very (very!) easy to fit into your luggage. Assuming you have experience with zero-drop shoes, these are the perfect travel shoes.

Best Zero-Drop Trail Running Shoes

Altra women's lone peak 7 trail running shoe.

• Cushioning 4.8 /5
• Responsiveness 4 /5
• Stability 4.4 /5
• Value 4.7 /5

Why We Like It: These trail runners break away from traditional (read: boring) trail shoe colors. 

It's Worth Noting: This trail runner is not waterproof, so you’ll want to wait until the trail is dry to take these puppies for a spin. 

Sizes: 5.5-12 | Available in wide: No | Activity: Trail Running

In one word, these zero-drop trail runners by Altra Running are: grippy. The outsole is an upgraded version of the company's signature MaxTrac™ outsole, which helps you stick to the trail underneath, so you don’t have to worry about slipping and sliding up or down whatever mountain you’re scaling. Meanwhile, the Altra EGO™ midsole cradles your foot in comfort, without impeding its natural flex and responsiveness. This freedom allows you to access the strength within your feet more easily, as well as reduces the risk of foot soreness that accompanies unnatural foot positioning .

What to Know About Zero Drop Shoes

• What are zero-drop shoes? Zero-drop shoes are different from most of the supposedly “flat” sneakers, work shoes, or boots in your closet. These days, most shoes on the market have some kind of heel drop, which put your heels (at least) a smidge higher than your toes, Dr. Kuizinas explains. Most gym trainers have a 5mm to 7mm heel drop , for example, while many running shoes have a 10mm heel drop. 
• Benefits of zero-drop shoes: “The benefit of zero-drop shoes compared to shoes with a heel drop is that they allow your foot to function and move from its natural position— which means you’re walking or moving as efficiently as possible,” explains Dr. Kuizinas. Zero drop shoes also spread your weight evenly across your heel and forefoot, rather than having increased pressure along the ball of your foot, she says. Over time, this helps build strength more evenly across the lower leg and foot muscles, which helps reduce strain on the knee and hip. “Compared to shoes with a heel drop, zero drop shoes also definitely promote more ankle mobility as they allow your ankle to utilize its full range of motion and therefore the full power of your muscles and tendons,” she adds.
• Zero-drop shoes and strength training: When you strength train you do not need — nor benefit from — cushioned arch support, explains Mark Cucuzzella, M.D. , who has designed running programs for the U.S. Air Force. Actually, a cushioned insole like those found in cushioned running shoes can impede your ability to properly grip the ground with your entire foot the way that strength training with sound form demands. The foam impedes your foot's ability to make contact with, and then properly press into the floor for additional power, explains Dr. Cucuzzella — that's why most strength training shoes are not cushioned, he says. Unfortunately, most strength training shoes today still have some heel drop. “Having your full foot closer to the ground, as you do with zero-drop shoes, can help improve your sense of balance,” says Dr. Cucuzzella.
• How to transition to zero-drop shoes: Gradually! “If you’ve been wearing big heavy supportive shoes and go right to a zero drop shoe, you may have some lower leg and calf soreness,” Brian Beckstead, co-founder of Altra Running , the brand that coined the term, previously told Shape . That’s why foot experts recommend creating a transition period for your foot, where you slowly integrate zero-drop shoes into the mix. “Most people [...]are able to fully transition to zero drop shoes within four to six weeks,” Beckstead said. 

Gabrielle Kassel (she/her) is a freelance wellness journalist with nearly a decade of experience writing about exercise equipment and shoes. In addition to Shape, her work has appeared in publications such as Health, SELF, Women's Health, Men’s Health, Greatist, Bustle, and more. She is also a somewhat competitive CrossFit athlete, hiking feen, and dog mom to a high-energy border collie. Whether sweating in her local CrossFit box or on the trail, she is always test-driving zero-drop shoes. As it goes, her training shoe collection is even more extensive than her leggings collection (which is saying something). 

For this article she interviewed a series of experts who KNOW feet, including two podiatrists, an ultramarathoner, and a chiropractor. She also read thousands of reviews for each of the aforementioned zero-drop shoes that she hasn’t personally test-driven, to make sure the recommended shoes are worthy of their designation.

The 8 best walking shoes for men

From waterproof options to slip-ons to shoes for aging feet, here are our picks for the most comfortable walking shoes.

When it comes to exploring the world on foot, finding a dependable pair of walking shoes is the key, especially if you frequently find yourself on your feet for prolonged periods of time. Selecting shoes that cater to your specific foot type—whether they are wide or narrow, or you need a little extra arch support—can make a difference to promote comfort and avoid potential injury.  

“Good support for your body while standing starts from the ground up,” says Cleveland Clinic orthopedic surgeon   Caitlin Lewis . “Your feet are the foundation for weight-bearing. Good quality, comfortable walking shoes provide adequate support and structure from the ground up.   Poor structure leads to poor lower leg mechanics, which can lead to subsequent pain and dysfunction.”  

The best men's walking shoes offer a blend of functionality and style to ensure a comfortable and supported stride, which is why the On Cloudaway rose to the top of our list. These men’s walking shoes stood out for their use of CloudTec cushioning technology, which provides a cushion for softer foot landings, as well as a firm and stable platform for pushing off during your stride, making them a smart choice for an everyday sneaker.  

Our picks for the best walking shoes for men

The best men's walking shoes of 2024.

Whether you're hitting the trail or running an errand, these walking shoes will keep you comfy and supported.

Best walking shoes for men overall: On Cloudaway

Buy it now at   On

Why we like it:   A great option for an everyday men’s walking shoe, the On Cloudaway earned top marks overall due to its combination of comfort, performance, and style. Its CloudTec cushioning technology helps support a smooth and supportive ride, absorbing impact while promoting natural foot movement.  

The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and dry, enhancing airflow, while the lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended walks. Additionally, the durable rubber outsole offers excellent traction on various surfaces, making these shoes suitable for both urban environments and outdoor trails.  

Available in a range of colorways, including classic black and vibrant hues, the On Cloudaway caters to different style preferences.  

Keep in mind:   The sizing for this shoe is pretty standard, so those with wider feet might want to consider a shoe that offers wide specific sizing options.

Product details: Weight: 9.94 ounces | Heel drop: 8mm | Size range:   7-14 | Color options: 3 |   Lacing: Elasticated | Cushioning: CloudTec | Materials:   Polyester, rubber, other

Best walking shoes for flat feet: Hoka Arahi 7

Buy it now at Hoka  

Why we like it:   Engineered with Hoka's J-Frame technology—designed to reduce the   risk of overpronation (when your gait causes your foot to roll inward while you walk, eventually putting strain on your arches)—arch support is provided throughout the gait cycle, promoting an efficient stride and a more natural foot motion. The plush cushioning of the Arahi 7 offers comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for both daily walks and longer distances. When researching this product, we looked for shoes that prioritize cushioning and motion control—two crucial factors for flat-footed people to prevent discomfort and potential injury. The Hoka Arahi 7 excels in both, thanks to its plush midsole cushioning and firm yet flexible construction. Additionally, the wide range of available colorways and sizing options ensures that every wearer can find the perfect fit and style to suit their preferences.

Keep in mind: Some reviewers have mentioned that the Hoka Arahi 7 has a slightly narrow fit.  

Product details:   Weight: 9.9 ounces | Heel drop: 5mm | Size range: 7-15, 7-15W | Color options: 9 | Laces:   Traditional laces | Cushioning: J-frame and zonal rubber | Materials: Knit upper, rubber, CMEVA foam

Best waterproof walking shoes: Teva Omnium 2 Hybrid Hiking Water Shoe

Buy it now at   Zappos   or   Amazon

Why we like it: Waterproof walking shoes are helpful for hikes that might involve crossing or wading through streams or rivers, protecting your feet from sharp objects and providing tread to avoid slips. Crafted with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, this shoe from Teva transitions from dry land to wet terrain without compromising on performance.  

To find the best waterproof walking shoe, we examined options for durable, quick-dry materials, which ensure that your feet won’t remain uncomfortably wet for the rest of your hike or walk. We also looked at shoes that provide ample traction.  

The Teva Omnium 2 Hybrid Hiking Water Shoe offers traction and stability, thanks to its durable Rugged Spider Rubber outsole. This feature enhances grip on various surfaces, ensuring confident steps on both dry and wet ground.  

Keep in mind:   Smell is always a concern for a pair of shoes that are consistently getting wet. To combat that, these Tevas are treated with Life Natural—a peppermint-based anti-odor treatment.

Product details:   Weight: 13.25 ounces | Heel drop: 10.55mm | Size range: 7-14 | Color options: 2 | Lacing: Buckle, elastic | Cushioning:   EVA foam | Materials:   Nylon, recycled plastic, polyester yarn

Best walking shoes for men with wide feet: Orthofeet Yari Hands-Free

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it: Men with wider feet often find their toes cramped within the toe box of many walking shoes, and can experience discomfort stemming from pressure points with longer periods of wear. Because of this, we looked for shoes with plenty of room in the toe box, as well as those that provide a pressure-free fit.  

These walking shoes by Orthofeet tick both boxes, due to their combination of comfort and support. The shoes also feature a cushioned insole with anatomical arch support and a lightweight sole designed to provide stability and shock absorption, promoting a more natural walking motion and reducing strain on the feet and joints.  

The soft fabric interior has no overlays, eliminating irritation, and though they have the appearance of a traditional laced sneaker, they’re actually built to be able to slip in and out of. Depending on how wide someone’s feet are, they can choose from a variety of sizing that includes standard width, wide fit, X-wide, and XX-wide.  

Keep in mind:   Those who require ankle support may find that the stretchable knitted upper doesn’t provide them with enough structure.  

Product details:   Weight: 12.66 ounces | Size range:   7-14 (D-6E) | Color options: 4 | Lacing:   Slip-on | Cushioning:   Perforated foam, heel cushion | Materials: Knit upper, Dryflex fabric, poly-u-foam

Best walking shoes for older men: Vionic 23Walk Classic Sneaker

Buy it now at   DSW

Why we like it: One of the features we considered when researching walking shoes for older men is the presence of built-in orthotic support, specifically designed to promote proper foot alignment and reduce discomfort associated with common foot ailments like plantar fasciitis and overpronation.  

These men’s walking shoes by Vionic, crafted with orthotic technology, help provide that stability and alignment; for older men, orthotic support not only enhances comfort during walks but also contributes to overall foot health.  

In addition to an antibacterial top cloth, these shoes feature a moisture-wicking polyester mesh liner and PU foam base that helps reduce friction against the skin. Bonus: With their durable rubber sole and premium leather upper, these shoes offer long-lasting wear and a timeless aesthetic suitable for multiple occasions.

Keep in mind: Some may find that these shoes require a bit of time to mold to the shape of their feet and achieve optimal comfort.

Product details: Weight:   12.66 ounces | Size range:   7-14 (D-6E) | Color options: 4 | Lacing:   Slip-on | Cushioning: Perforated foam, heel cushion | Materials: Knit upper, Dryflex fabric, poly-u-foam

Best budget walking shoes: Skechers Men’s Gowalk 5

Why we like it:   These men’s walking shoes by Skechers are well-priced without compromising on comfort or quality—our main consideration for this category. Constructed with lightweight and breathable materials, they provide a comfortable walking experience for extended periods, and the incorporation of Skechers' Ultra Go cushioning ensures optimal support, making them ideal for daily wear or long walks.  

A lightweight “Goga Mat” insole bounces back similar to a yoga mat, also helping to wick away moisture. Overall, these walking shoes deliver value for money, making them a solid choice for anyone seeking comfortable and reliable sneakers without breaking the bank.

Keep in mind:   Some wearers have mentioned that these particular shoes could have better arch support.  

Product details: Weight: 7.9 ounces | Size range:   7-16, 7-16 X-Wide | Color options: 8 | Lacing: Slip-on | Cushioning:   Perforated foam, heel cushion | Materials: Knit upper, Dryflex fabric, poly-u foam

Best walking shoes for men with back pain: Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe

Buy it now at   Kane

Why we like it: Arch support, cushioning, and overall stability are crucial for those with back pain. In our search for the best walking shoe for men with back pain, the Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe bubbled to the top thanks to its smart design, which is tailored to alleviate discomfort and promote recovery.  

Crafted from sugarcane-based RestoreFoam with a focus on support and cushioning, these shoes incorporate advanced features that specifically target back pain. The shoe's dual density construction provides shock absorption, reducing the impact on the spine with every step,   and the contoured insole offers customized arch support, enhancing overall comfort and alignment for people with back issues.

Its breathable perforated upper also promotes airflow, preventing excess moisture and keeping feet dry, while the raised footbed nodes activate blood flow in key pressure points.

Keep in mind: If you live in a place with colder weather, the perforated upper might be too breezy.  

Product details: Weight:   12.8 ounces | Heel drop: 10mm | Size range: 3-18 | Color options: 20 | Lacing:   Slip-on | Cushioning: Sugarcane-based EVA foam | Materials: Sugarcane-based EVA foam

Best slip-on walking shoes for men: Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneakers

Why we like it:   Slip-on walking shoes are favored by many for multiple reasons, from their sheer ease of use and time-saving potential to their sleek style. These slip-ons by Kizik eliminate the hassle of traditional laces with their hands-free design, allowing you to easily slip them on and off.  

Along with convenience, they boast a cushioned footbed and supportive construction that ensures long-lasting comfort throughout the day. The slip-on design not only saves time but also accommodates various foot shapes and sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of users.  

Additionally, the sneakers come in multiple colorways, including classic black and versatile navy, allowing wearers to find the perfect style to match their wardrobe.

For people with mobility issues or those who simply appreciate the convenience of slip-on shoes, the Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneakers combine functionality and style.  

Keep in mind:   This slip-on has a roomy toe box, so might not be the best for those with narrow feet.  

Product details: Weight:   12.8 ounces | Heel drop:   10mm | Size range:   5-15 | Color options: 9 | Lacing:   Slip-on | Cushioning:   Rabbit foam | Materials:   Knit

How we chose the best men’s walking shoes

With so many options to pick from, choosing a pair of walking shoes that works best for you can be time-consuming. We scrutinized the following attributes when narrowing down our list of the best walking shoes:  

Third-party reviews:   Brand marketing can often be misleading and create unrealistic expectations about products. To ensure that our recommendations for men's walking shoes are genuinely reliable, we focused on shoes with high ratings and positive reviews from verified customers, which provide valuable insights into their long-term performance.  

Brand reputation:   Brand reputation matters, since it often reflects the company's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.  

Value: Value in a walking shoe encompasses not only its price, but the balance between quality, durability, and performance. When choosing a walking shoe, value matters because it ensures that you're investing in footwear that provides the best possible benefits for your feet.

Quality of materials:   We researched the craftsmanship and materials used in the construction of each walking shoe, including the type of fabric and cushioning because durable, breathable materials ensure longevity, comfort, and adequate support.

Support:   The structural integrity and cushioning of your walking shoe helps maintain the proper alignment and stability of your feet while you move. The right support prevents discomfort or potential injury.

Tips for buying walking shoes for men

Heel drop refers to the height difference between the heel and the forefoot of a sneaker. To find the right heel drop for your walking shoe, prioritize finding a balance that suits your individual needs and gait.  

Typically, a moderate heel drop of around 8-12 millimeters can provide adequate cushioning and support for most. However, those with back pain or other biomechanical issues may benefit from a higher drop for additional heel cushioning.  

Arch support

Before considering what kind of arch support you need from a walking shoe, determine the arch level of your feet . Then, look for shoes with features like contoured footbeds, cushioned midsoles, and arch support systems designed to provide stability and alleviate pressure on the arches during walking. You can also consider trying orthotic shoes or those that mold to your feet, ensuring optimal support and comfort.

Height and width

When picking a walking shoe, make sure to take into account both the height and width. The height refers to the shoe's profile and how it accommodates the foot's natural shape and arch, and the width determines how snugly or roomily the shoe fits around the foot.  

Measure and consider your individual foot shape and any specific width requirements, such as narrow, regular, or wide, to ensure a comfortable and secure fit that allows for natural movement while walking. Dr. Lewis advises that your shoe should fit snug, but not tight, from the toe to the heel.

If you require a walking shoe with substantial traction, look for a pair with a durable rubber outsole that offers multidirectional patterns and deep grooves, which enhance grip and stability on various surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and trails.  

Also consider the shoe's overall flexibility and features like lugs or a textured surface, which can further improve traction and prevent slipping, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Dr. Lewis advises that people keep track of the wear in their shoes, looking at the bottom treads frequently. “When the tread pattern starts to wear away, it's time to get new shoes,” she says.  

The right amount of cushioning in a walking shoe is all about finding a balance between comfort and support. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the midsole, particularly in areas like the heel and forefoot. It's also essential to assess the responsiveness of the cushioning, as well as the shoe's stability features, since excessive cushioning without proper support can lead to instability and potential discomfort during longer walks.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best walking shoes for long distances on concrete?

The best walking shoes for long distances on hard surfaces such as concrete have ample cushioning and support to minimize the impact on your feet and joints.  

Look for shoes with midsole cushioning made with high-quality foam or gel, to provide shock absorption. A durable outsole with sufficient traction is also important for long walks on concrete, ensuring stability and preventing slips.  

What shoe brand is best for walking?

There isn’t one shoe brand that is best for walking, as it depends on what kind of shoe adequately supports your unique foot shape and walking need—whether you’re a trail walker, someone who needs an extra wide fit, or in need of a shoe with tons of arch support. Some big box brands, such as Skechers and Asics, have a wide range of walking shoes to pick from, while more niche independent brands have a more curated range.  

What shoes are good for walking and standing all day?

Shoes that are good for walking and standing for long periods of time typically prioritize comfort, support, and durability. Consider shoes with shock absorption and supportive arches to prevent foot fatigue.  

A contoured footbed can also help maintain proper alignment and reduce strain on the feet, knees, and lower back. Try opting for shoes with breathable materials and a roomy toe box to prevent discomfort and allow for natural foot movement.  

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Nike Metcon 8

Men's workout shoes.

Select Size

You chase the clock, challenging and encouraging each other all in the name of achieving goals and making gains. Our go-to model for training relies on a lighter, more breathable upper than our previous edition to complement our standards of durability and comfort, so that you can float through your cardio, power through your lifts and dominate your workouts.

• Shown: Iron Grey/Black/Gum Medium Brown/Phantom
• Style: DO9328-007

Size & Fit

• Fits small; we recommend ordering a half size up

Shipping & Returns

Reviews (145).

Write a Review

Nice looking, stable, grippy, but odd fitting

EdwarJose379146933 - Feb 27, 2024

I love the looks of the shoe and how stable the heel fits. The hyperlift piece gives me a secure feeling while performing the exercises. My only complaint is the fit and the lockdown. I think the shoe would do great with an additional laceloop to fit the heel better. In regards to the toebox, it feels rather spacious, a bit too much really, but I would not size down because then the midfoot would feel too tight. Overall I like how the shoe feels while hitting the workout, but the fit and lockdown do not convince me that much. It might be my foot shape though, so it might fit great for others ...

Cool style, misleading color

CassandraM434994454 - Feb 24, 2024

Very cool style ,but color was misleading. Definitely not neon green like we hoped. It was more highliter yellow.

cntsingbutigtsol - Feb 08, 2024

Too wide and too flat. No arch support and a wide toe box had my feet sliding around inside. Returning immediately.

More Reviews

Complete the Look

Spring in Your Step

Delivering a smooth, responsive ride, Nike React foam makes a comfortable, cushioned base that feels lightweight and springy when you kick into high gear for cardio and sprints.

Grip from All Angles

Grippy rubber wraps around your arch during intense rope climbs. Rubber tread gives you traction and helps you stay on your feet when transitioning from the training room floor to the pavement.

Stability for Lifts

The wide, flat heel gets even more stable with an inner plate that distributes weight from edge to edge. It also flexes to make it comfortable for cardio and sprints.

More Benefits

• Lightweight mesh with textured overlays in high-wear areas helps keep your foot cool without sacrificing durability.
• Tab locks down the laces with a hook-and-loop closure to help keep them out of the way.
• Handstand clip at the heel helps minimize drag during wall exercises.

The 9 Best Nike Shoes to Buy in 2024, Tested by Style and Fitness Editors

The best athletes in the world wear these kicks. Why shouldn’t you ?

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

In the realm of footwear, Nike is still a juggernaut. That’s because you can always count on the brand to roll out fresh iterations of best-selling models with increased support and updated cushioning (e.g. Nike React, which adds more bounce to your natural stride). And when Nike isn’t releasing new versions of popular kicks, the label is teaming up with athletes, celebrities and designers to create cutting-edge shoes that sets them apart from competitors in a crowded market.

Best Nike Shoes

Best Training Shoes

Nike free metcon 5 training shoes.

Best Casual Nike Shoes

Nike killshot 2.

Best Nike Jordans

Nike air jordan 1 mid shoes.

Best Cushioned Nike Shoe

Nike air vapormax plus.

Best OG Nike Shoes

Nike air force 1 '07.

Best Nike Running Shoes

Nike invincible 3 road running shoes.

Best Low-Top Nike Shoes

Nike air jordan 1 low se.

Best High-Top Nike Shoes

Nike blazer mid '77 vintage.

Best Futuristic Nike Shoes

Nike air max dn shoes.

Whatever you’re into— running shoes , basketball shoes , or even pickleball shoes —the best Nike shoes can take your footwear game to the next level. The question, of course, is: Which pair is right for you? As Men’s Health Editors, we’ve tested and practically lived in Nike shoes. We spent the past year combing through our closets and testing notes to create a definitive list of the sportswear giant’s best styles to shop online.

What To Consider

You should always check the fit to ensure optimal comfort and performance. Understanding how the shoe fits, whether it runs small, large or true to size, helps you select the appropriate size and avoid potential discomfort or issues with the fit.

You don’t ever want to overspend on any kind of shoes. Though, knowing the price of Nike shoes allows you to assess the value proposition of the shoe. Consider the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and technology incorporated into each pair. Limited edition releases or collaborations may command higher prices due to their exclusivity.

How We Selected

For the past two years, we consulted with Men's Health's Fitness editors and writers on the best Nike shoes for men. Experts including our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. and fitness editor Brett Williams, NASM, put countless Nike shoes through the wringer to evaluate their fit, style, support and effectiveness. We also considered picks from our style editors who know a thing or two about pairing the Swoosh with off-the-court looks.

Strong yet flexible, the Nike Metcon Free 4 is built to help you squeeze every ounce of performance from your training program. Extra support in the heel and at the midfoot adds balance and stability while you power through sets, while its next-gen chain-link mesh keeps you cool through even the most intense agility drills .

During our testing, we found that this top-selling model works best for those intense workouts. Think: Crossfit, heavy lifts, etc. With a Huarache-inspired strap, these shoes offer a locked-in fit and provide all-around comfort for whatever you’re getting into—be it cardio or squats.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Metcon is lightweight, so you don’t feel weighed down as you’re getting it in. We don’t suggest this style for long-distance running, but it does feature a soft foam core and wide heel that lends extra cushion and keeps your feet well-planted for weight lifting.

Read More: Best Cross Training Shoes

Off the court, the Killshot 2 is one of our favorite casual shoes . Born from a partnership between J. Crew and Nike, the shoe’s preppy aesthetic is fresh, clean and incredibly easy to match with a lot of fits. In terms of craftsmanship, the classic silhouette is designed with smooth leather detailing and suede accents, which dresses up the sneaker.

Our love for the Killshot 2 runs deep. Firstly, its style range allows you to pair it easily with your favorite gray sweatsuit or a fine navy suit. The shoe is relatively budget-friendly for a Nike sneaker, so you could grab a couple different colorways without breaking the bank. More than anything, it’s very comfortable, thanks to its ample cushioning, a supportive midsole, breathable materials, and a well-engineered outsole. We’ve worn this during our office commutes and didn’t experience any real break-in period.

This iconic shoe changed the footwear industry when originally released in 1985. Today, it’s still a go-to pick for sneakerheads and guys with great taste. With a fair amount of colorways available, you can choose one that has its own identity and suits your personal style.

Whether you're playing basketball or hitting the town, the Air Jordan 1 Mid is going to serve you well. Not to mention, it's an affordable alternative to the high-top retro models that are hiked up in price. Above everything else, we appreciate that the mid- and outsoles offer lightweight comfort and durable traction.

Read more: Best Jordan Sneakers

Unlike traditional running shoes that feature foam midsoles, the latest generation of Nike’s Air VaporMax Plus has a cushioning system made entirely of Air pods. They’re strategically placed throughout the sole of the shoe to provide responsive cushioning and support underfoot. In other words, this design offers greater flexibility along with a bouncy sensation for runners ready to hit the curb.

Despite its thick build, this shoe has a lightweight feel to them. We’ve taken it for a test run on the treadmill and found it delivers excellent energy return. Our feet felt secure and stable throughout as we sprinted. Aside from its performance, we love the iconic ocean wavy pattern on the upper, which is inspired by palm trees swaying in the breeze.

Read more: Most Cushioned Running Shoes

With ultra-clean good looks, the Air Force 1 ‘07 remains one of our favorite Nike shoes for men. This original court-ready kick is still fresh with the same stitched overlays for extra durability. Our style editors love the Air Force 1 in either of the two off-the-shelf colors (white or blacked-out), but you can also opt to design your own with any number of infinite color combinations.

We’re suckers for a blank canvas shoe, especially one with so much styling potential. With the crisp white, you can go all the way casual with a flannel and jeans or almost formal with a relaxed suit and sweater. Not to mention, it’s easy to look as fly as your favorite athlete, given that Lebron James and Dwayne Wade have paired this with bold looks for their tunnel-walks into the arena.

For the road runner who values comfort above all else (and isn’t that pretty much all of us?), there’s the Nike Invincible 3. This sneak is built for the long run with the brand’s highest cushioning for maximum underfoot comfort, mile after mile. It provides excellent bounce with extraordinary “springiness” that helps to keep you moving forward.

If you want to tackle a marathon without feeling the brunt of your run, this shoe is your best bet. Our fitness editors have gone the distance in it—conquering a 10K run—and felt little to no discomfort after crossing the line. Ultimately, you’d want something that feels like you’re walking on a marshmallowy surface.

Read more: Best Nike Running Shoes

When a pair of high-top kicks are a little too aggressive for your everyday look, a low-cut design offers more flexibility and mobility for casual wear. Fitting true to size, this style comes with a narrow toe box and padding around the ankle and tongue for extra comfort.

If you want to put your best foot forward and catch everyone’s attention—like Hollywood A-listers, Michael B. Jordan and Timothée Chamalet—this silhouette will suit you well. Although the highly-coveted shoe is not our first choice for long-distance paths due to its firm sole, it will earn you style points at social events or around the office. It matches nicely with a pair of jeans and sweater or a hoodie and sweatpants.

If you’re looking for the classic, timeless Nike high-top, this is it. The Blazer pays homage to the 1970s, while maintaining its sturdy construction featuring a durable sole, full leather uppers, and a delicate mesh tongue. And after being selected as a creative canvas for fresh iterations by designers such as Sacai and the late Virgil Abloh, it’s safe to say this shoe still has its star power.

We've worn these to shoot some hoops and grab drinks at the beer hall, which is a testament to their versatile wear. What's also great is the retro-inspired silhouette is made with leather uppers, so they can take a beating—no matter how hard you crush it in the gym or on the court.

Arriving in a futuristic profile, the Air Max Dn shows off the brand’s best footwear innovations: air technology that shifts through the heel, so every step is more comfortable than the last. In other words, this pair is great to throw on for your morning or evening strolls.

Our fitness director considers it one of the most comfortable Nike shoes, thanks to its dual-pressure tubes that make you feel like you're walking on air. Plus, the upper is anchored by a TPU shank clip—material that assists in proper foot flexion and prevents any possible injury. Style-wise, you can experiment with this shoe a bit. If you’re going for a casual look, it looks great with joggers or jeans and a graphic tee or hoodie. And for a classier vibe, dress it up with a button-down shirt and trousers.

Shop More of Our Favorite Shoes

Best Cross Training Shoes | Best Running Shoes | Best Walking Shoes | Best Basketball Shoes | Pickleball Shoes | Best Workout Shoes | Best Dress Sneakers

Brett Williams, a senior editor at Men's Health, is a NASM-CPT certified trainer and former pro football player and tech reporter. You can find his work elsewhere at Mashable, Thrillist, and other outlets.

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The Best Sneakers of 2024 (So Far)

The freshest kicks of the year, from Hoka to Asics to Nike.

From all-new Hokas to a sleek collaboration between Asics and Kith to groovy shoes by New Balance and Joe Freshgoods, the seven best sneaker releases of this year are right here. These are the kind of shoes you proudly post on your IG story, the kind that all your friends reply with fire emojis to, the kind that you put back in the box when you're not actively wearing them.

While there are still plenty of drops to come that we can't wait for, the selection below is perfect for refreshing your footwear game. Nothing is newer , cooler, or trendier—bidding wars between StockX users are proof that everybody wants to get their hands on (feet in?) these shoes. We'll keep updating this list as the year goes on, too, so be sure to come back for all the best sneakers of '24 as they're released.

Hoka Clifton L Suede FP Movement

The latest from Hoka is an updated, upgraded take on the iconic Clifton, and this iteration is the best one yet. You can still wear this shoe for running, but the tonal suede upper and trio of custom laces ensure that this style lends itself to daily wear, too.

Asics x Kith Gel-1130 “Cream/Scarab”

When Asics and Kith join forces, only good things can happen. This cream sneaker looks every bit the classic, timeless Asics shoe, but with Kith's cool, fresh minimalism and a breathable mesh upper, it's versatile AF.

Air Jordan 4 Retro “Military Blue”

Sneaker collectors, strap in: Military blue is back. This contemporary take on 1989 Jordans features an an off-white leather base with military-blue details, partnered with cool gray tones on the forefoot and outsole—simple, sporty, and stunning.

New Balance x Joe Freshgoods 1000 “When Things Were Pure Pack - Black Ice”

This sneaker looks like it could be straight out of Dune: Part Two (if the Fremen wore New Balances, that is), but thankfully, it's not a fictional style. You can score this funky, wavy brown shoe without going all the way to Arrakis.

Asics x Hidden NY Gel-NYC

From Asics and Hidden NY comes the perfect fresh, contemporary sneaker. This is a style that's decidedly better when not scuffed up, so instead of running in these, we recommend pairing 'em with your favorite jeans.

Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT% 3 Prototype

Chunky Nikes make the world go 'round. Designed to enhance the speed of marathon runners, this "super shoe" is a sick statement, with its oversized Nike swoosh and high-octane sole unit.

Nike Air Max 1 “Beef and Broccoli”

Is the name of this shoe making anyone else hungry? Anyway, name aside, Nike's latest Air Max 1 is well worth the dough. It has warm, earthy shades of green and brown, with suede paneling and plenty of cushioning.

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