The shoes you choose to pack for your vacation can truly make or break your trip. Believe it or not, travel shoes can be both stylish and comfortable! From flats to sneakers, and sandals to all-terrain options, these shoes will keep the spring in your step on your next getaway.
Flats
Whether you’re shopping or sightseeing, you really can’t go wrong with a basic pair of flats when exploring a new spot. Here are some of our favorites.
Rothy’s
We’re not going to lie: We are slightly obsessed with Rothy’s! They are comfortable, lightweight, and come in a number of styles (ballet or point), colors, and patterns. They are also kind to the planet, since they’re made from recycled plastic bottles. Perhaps the best thing about these babies is the fact that travel dust and grime wash right off them: All you need to do is throw them in the washer, let them air-dry, and they’ll be as good as new. Even the Duchess of Sussex is a fan. At just under $150, they aren’t they cheapest option, but they are durable, stylish, and will last well beyond your vacation.
TOMS Canvas Classics
TOMS has become known for its buy-one, give-one philanthropic stance, which makes purchasing the company’s comfortable shoes feel almost as good as the shoes do on your feet. We love the basic TOMS Canvas Classics, which can be dressed up or down. They treat your feet with extra-supportive orthotic insoles and come in a variety of colors and prints; we adore this season’s funky glow-in-the-dark version! The Classics start at a budget-friendly just around $50.
Tieks
Crafted from Italian leather, with super-flexible soles that allow for easy packing, Tieks make great travel flats. These babies will flatten down to fit inside a tote or even a purse. Chances are that’s not where they’ll stay, though, with incredible style options (including metallics, bold patterns, and funky solid colors that can easily take you from day to night); a stretch-to-fit, cushy feel; plenty of traction; and shock-absorption support. Tieks start at $175 a pair, so they aren’t the cheapest option out there, but the craftsmanship of these gorgeous flats speaks for itself.
Sneakers
Sometimes you just need a great pair of sneakers to get you through your travel day — there’s no shame in that game! Luckily for you, there are stylish options available. Here are some terrific ones to consider.
Superga 2750 Cotu Classic
The Superga Italian footwear line got its start back in 1911, and in the century since it has expanded its fanbase globally. Customers love the shoes’ thick rubber soles and timeless lines that put bounce back into each stride. The line’s iconic 2750 Cotu Classic will never, ever go out of style, and will keep your feet happy even on days you get all your steps in. The shoes come in a terrific range of colors, so it will be tough to choose only one. But they’re only $65 a pair, so you don’t have to limit yourself!
Allbirds Wool Runners
Want your feet to feel cozy and comfortable even on the longest travel day? Try out Allbirds Wool Runners. Allbirds shoes are crafted from natural, low-carbon-footprint materials including Merino wool, eucalyptus, and sugarcane fibers. The materials are designed to keep your feet cool, so even if you opt not to wear them with socks, you won’t sweat in them. The added climate control will help keep the kicks fresher longer. They have lots of heel cushion, and their sleek, understated design will look great with any of your on-the-go outfits. At $95, they’d make a terrific — and affordable — addition to your travel wardrobe.
ECCO Soft 7 Woven
Don’t let the funky metallic design fool you: The ECCO Soft 7 Woven sneaker combines both fashion and function for exceptional slip-on comfort. We love the braided Napa leather and the different color options. ECCO added new Fluidform technology to these shoes, which will keep you on your feet all day during your travel adventure — in style and on point.
Sandals
If you’re headed to the beach, sandals are essential. A good pair will seamlessly take you from the sand and surf during the day to dinner and dancing later in the evening. Here are our top picks to stash in your luggage for your next sunny getaway.
Teva Hurricane XLT2
Tevas are known for their flexibility, strength, and support. For a basic option that can get you from the beach to the trail and back again, the Hurricane XLT2 is a great bet. These shoes are sporty and extra supportive, and you won’t have to worry if they get wet or gritty — just give them a quick rinse, and they’ll be good as new. Their soft heel pads will keep your foot in place, the thick rubber soles provide plenty of traction, and the stabilizers keep you sure-footed no matter where you go. The Hurricane’s no-nonsense shade (black) and understated lines make the day-night transition a snap. At $70, these sporty sandals are worth considering.
UGG Shoshana Metallic
Need a little more sparkle and shine for your beach look? The UGG Shoshana Metallic has got you covered! Its gold-hued thick leather straps, paired with the Australian design line’s signature chunky rubber soles, make these sandals a chic-yet-comfortable option. Pair them with a coverup or jeans for a casual look, or with a cocktail dress once the sun goes down. Either way, you’ll look luxe, and your feet will feel just as great! The shoes retail for $140; you can snap them up at UGG’s website.
Something Sturdier
Occasionally, out on the road, you’ll need a heftier shoe to really pull its weight. Whether you’re out on the trail or stomping through the woods, here are a couple of pairs that will get you where you need to go comfortably and in style!
Lems Boulder Boot
Need to travel light, but still want to bring along boots? Check out the incredible, versatile Lems Boulder Boot. These ultra-light hikers are constructed of nylon, leather, and a special flexible insole that allows them to easily fit inside your suitcase. What’s more, they follow the natural shape of the human foot while standing up to even the most challenging hiking days, providing comfort, support, and a dash of style. They’re available in several colors and cost $125.
Merrell Moab
For the ultimate cushion, wherever in the world you’re exploring the great outdoors, grab a pair of Merrell Moab shoes. All models feature a rugged sole that can take on any terrain, most are waterproof, and some even incorporate GORE-TEX for guaranteed warmth even on the most frigid of days. Whether you choose the ankle or high-top version, these boots feature tremendous arch support, shock absorption, and a cushy midsole. While these are not light (they’re about 11 pounds total!), they do get the job done. Whether you’re up in the mountains, trekking through the snow, or hitting the trail, these kicks will get you through any outdoor adventure in comfort. Prices start at $100.
