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February 18, 2025
Deciding which shoes to pack for your next trip can feel like a puzzle. The best travel shoes provide lasting comfort for long days spent exploring. They’re also versatile—keeping up with different types of activities and complementing multiple outfits. Finally, they’re compact enough to fit neatly in your suitcase and lightweight enough to carry throughout your trip.
That’s a lot to consider. Luckily, we did the work for you! This comprehensive guide highlights what to look for and offers recommendations from top brands, so you can choose the right shoes for every adventure.
Here are the best travel shoes for:
1. Breezing through the airport
Comfortable shoes are a must for the airport. As you move through security checkpoints, navigate to your terminal, and prepare for long-haul flights, supportive sneakers and slide-ons can keep you comfy and mobile hour after hour.
Brands like Kizik, Hoka, and On all offer cushioned, breathable sneakers ideal for long hours on your feet or the plane. Kizik sneakers even include hands-free technology, so you can avoid the hassle of tying and untying your shoelaces and get through security faster.
If you prefer slides over sneakers, Birkenstock sandals are an excellent choice. Not only are they quick to remove, but their ultra-supportive cork footbeds make your trek through the airport much more enjoyable.
Bonus tip: Wear compression socks on longer flights to promote circulation while you’re in the air. The added circulation helps prevent foot and leg discomfort and tiredness—so you’re ready to hit the ground running once you reach your destination.
2. Lounging beachside or poolside
Ready to make a splash? Whether you’re strolling along the shore or lounging by the pool, a pair of comfortable, stylish, and water-friendly sandals or flip-flops are your trusted companions.
For maximum comfort, look for a pair of quick-drying sandals with non-slip soles, like ones from OluKai or Reef. These features can help you stay safe on slippery surfaces, like the ones you’re likely to encounter after a fellow traveler inevitably cannonballs into the pool.
If you’re looking for a little extra support, Vionic makes sandals designed to absorb shock, keeping your feet pain-free throughout long days. Plus, many of their options include elevated looks for easy transitions from day to evening. Birkenstock also offers waterproof, washable options with supportive EVA footbeds.
3. Exploring the outdoors
If hitting trails and reaching peaks is a goal on your next trip, browse our curated selection of adventure shoes from top brands like Keen, Teva, Chaco, and Merrell. Wearing the right shoes on your hiking adventures can help you protect yourself from injury and stay comfortable while you explore.
For non-slip traction that supports you up mountains, across streams, and everywhere in between, consider trusted hiking shoes like the Merrell Moab. Their innovative Vibram soles offer superior grip on all types of terrain, so you can confidently wander wherever the day takes you.
If you’re adventuring around wet and rocky terrain, check out a water-friendly sandal with added toe protection like the Keen Newport.
4. Spending the day sightseeing
For long days of sightseeing, you need a shoe that offers exceptional comfort in an elevated aesthetic—because, let’s face it, no one wants a clunky shoe in all their pictures.
A top-quality lifestyle sneaker, like the New Balance 574, is your holy grail for museum hopping, touring landmarks and monuments, and wandering city streets. Sleek and eye-catching, the shoe includes foam midsole cushioning to deliver all-day comfort. Other top lifestyle sneaker brands include Ecco, Taos, and Kizik.
For warm weather wandering, sandals with a cork-footbed, like the Birkenstock Arizona, offer unmatched support while keeping your feet cool and comfortable. Plus, you can dress them up or down for whatever the day brings. Other brands with cork-footbed sandals include Haflinger, Mephisto, and Naot.
5. Breaking a sweat
Planning to stay active throughout your travels? Going for a run, jog, walk, or bike ride is a great way to explore a new place. When packing for your trip, look for a pair of athletic shoes that combines advanced features with everyday practicality. The shoes you wear on your daily jog should be able to double as go-tos for long days of sightseeing or maneuvering through the airport.
Brands like Brooks, New Balance, Hoka, and On all offer stylish options with supportive features. A pair of versatile athletic sneakers can easily take on double duty for morning runs and afternoon city strolls.
6. Keeping the kids going
Lengthy travel days can be a lot for your little ones. Packing shoes that provide long-lasting comfort for long days is a great way to keep them going so you can do more sightseeing, adventuring, and exploring. New Balance and Under Armour both offer a range of lightweight, durable sneakers designed to keep up with active kids and all-day adventures.
For warm weather destinations, go with a pair of Keen or Birkenstock sandals. The water-friendly Kids Keen Seacamp II CNX sandals are lightweight, flexible, and feature a machine-washable midsole for easy cleanup after a day outdoors.
7. Bonus: Top travel bags
Just as the right shoes can make or break a trip, choosing the right travel bag can significantly impact your experience. The best travel bags blend practicality with aesthetics and include features that enhance your overall experience—like water resistance for unexpected weather, ergonomic straps for comfort, and anti-theft technology for peace of mind.
A versatile solution like the Sherpani Soleil Anti-Theft, which includes multifunctional pockets and converts from a backpack to a tote, can help you stay organized and prepared, no matter where the day takes you. Baggallini, Hedgren, and Milo are other top brands whose innovative, beautiful, and practical bags and backpacks make travel a breeze.
Travel smarter with Schuler
Ready to make the most of your next trip in shoes that keep you moving? We gathered the best travel shoes on the market to create the ultimate travel collection. Browse top-quality footwear for every destination and activity—and find the pair that’s right for your next big adventure.
