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The 17 Most Comfortable Women's Sandals of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These are the best women’s sandals for travel, hiking and everything in between.

In This Article

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• Our top picks

Our Testing Process

Other sandals we liked.

• 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 / Marcus Millan

Seasoned travelers know comfy walking shoes are some of the most important things to pack for travel. The perfect pair should be supportive and as fashionable as they are functional. And if you're headed to a warm weather locale, finding comfortable sandals is key.

When you choose the right pair of sandals for your feet and personal needs, they can be just as comfortable as sneakers, according to Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a New York City­-based podiatrist and foot surgeon. "Your shoe should be appropriate for your foot type as well as your activity," she tells Travel + Leisure . "This will not only provide comfort but can prevent injury."

We spoke with Dr. Sutera to find out what makes a comfortable shoe, then tested 50 pairs ourselves to round up the best options based on comfort, fit, quality, and value. Whether you're looking for something sporty, water-resistant, travel-friendly, versatile, or fashion-forward, you'll find it here.

Best Overall

Sandalup elastic flat sandals.

The straps are snug for a tight fit to your foot, but not uncomfortable.

They run large, so size down a half or full size.

These sleek sandals feature elastic straps that mold and stretch to fit your feet perfectly — there are no buckles, zippers, snaps, or ties on the shoes to constrain movement or cause irritation. In a slide, thong, or any other open silhouette, your toes are constantly gripping in order to keep the shoe from sliding off your foot. According to Dr. Sutera, that causes strain on the muscles in your feet and can also make common issues like bunions, hammer toes, and pinched nerves even worse. That type of pressure is reduced with these sandals. These also have a lightly padded footbed and rubber sole for extra comfort and traction. Best of all, they're super stylish, so they can be worn with everything from travel dresses and skirts to jeans and leggings.

Our favorite thing about the sandals? The fact that they were comfortable right out of the box. One of our team members reported that they stretched enough to immediately accommodate her wide feet, unlike most other sandals. We also noted during testing that the shoes were easy to pack, comfy enough for all-day wear, and perfect for warm weather since they don't cause your feet to sweat.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Rubber, elastic, textile | 0.4 inches | Elastic straps

Best for Wide Feet

Munro pisces.

They come in five different widths and more than a dozen colors and prints.

They feature a high arch, so they're not recommended for flatter feet.

If you have a difficult time finding sandals that are comfortable for wide feet, check out this pair by Munro. The cute shoes come in five different widths, ranging from super slim to extra wide. They also feature an elastic back strap and padded insole for all-day comfort. Snag them in more than a dozen colors and prints ranging from neutral beige and white to cheetah and giraffe prints.

We were particularly impressed with how sturdy they were and how long they remained comfy. "I wore them to a four-hour concert where I was on my feet the entire time, standing and dancing," one of our team members said. "I was shocked by how cushiony yet supportive they were and appreciated that they didn't slide around." She also mentioned that their lightweight design makes them ideal to pack in a suitcase.

The Details: 4 to 13 | Leather, suede, vinyl, textile | 0.4 inches | Sling-back

Best Sporty

Teva tirra sandal.

These sandals rival sneakers in comfort and arch support but are so much more breathable.

They're not very versatile beyond outdoor activities.

If you're looking for a sporty pair of sandals to wear on long summer hikes, check out this pair by Teva. The quick-drying sandals feature a padded midsole, and they have a rubber outsole for traction to help you avoid any slips or falls. They also have shock pads in the heels and stretchy mesh-lined straps that won't cause blisters.

After testing these out, we thought the Tirras stand out as true active footwear, as they're rugged and provide a personalized feel. "These shoes offered a great fit as soon as I put them on," says T+L commerce director Jamie Hergenrader. "I like that there are three adjustable Velcro straps, so they were easy to adjust when needed to make them tighter or looser. Also, the style is nice — not as much for an everyday shoe, but as far as hiking sandals go, I like the look of these."

The Details: 5 to 11 | Polyester, nylon, rubber | Strapped

Steve Madden Irenee Heeled Sandal

Steve Madden

The style is versatile enough for almost all casual and formal occasions.

They require a bit of a break-in period.

If you want to add a little polish and height to your travel looks, reach for these sleek sandals with a low block-heel by Steve Madden. The buckled ankle straps keep your feet from sliding around, and the low heel (2 inches) is an ideal height for longer periods of walking. They're so stylish, you'll want to wear them with everything from formal dresses to jeans — and because they're so comfortable, you can.

Hergenrader has owned these for years and packs them on most warm-weather trips due to their versatile style and comfort for walking around cities. T+L editor Elizabeth Rhodes, who also tested the shoes, adds that "the design is aesthetically perfect… and the heel height looks very polished, but isn't too high." And while heels might seem counterintuitive for a comfortable shoe, know this: a little height is totally okay to add into your packing lineup. In fact, it's healthier to switch up your shoe height and style from day to day, according to Dr. Sutera. You're welcome, over-packers.

The Details: 5.5 to 12 | Leather, suede, synthetic materials | 2 inches | Strapped heels

Best Flip-flop

Vionic rest dillon toe post sandals.

These are more stylish and versatile than your average pair of flip-flops, and they're comfortable to walk in on different terrains.

These can't be submerged in water, so avoid wearing them in waves or pools.

Flip-flops aren't known for being supportive enough to wear for a full day of sightseeing, but if you need a pair for the pool or hot sand, Dr. Sutera, who is a member of Vionic's Innovation Lab , recommends the brand because of their scientific approach to shoes. The brand has been awarded the Seal of Acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for promoting good foot health. The vacation-ready sandals have a thin profile with a soft sole and topsole cushioning that makes them extra comfortable.

These shoes are all about versatility. "I like that they manage to merge comfort and style," T+L commerce editor Hillary Maglin says. "I spent several days walking and standing in these on various terrains and my feet never hurt. I'll also probably pack them on my next vacation, because they'd be perfect for sightseeing in both comfort and style." Maglin notes that while the top straps were slightly loose on her narrow foot, they would probably fit shoppers with wider feet perfectly.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Leather, suede | 1.2 inches | Flip-flops

Best for High Arches

Vionic tide ii toe post sandal.

They offer firm support at a light weight.

The firm footbed may feel too hard for shoppers who prefer softer shoes.

If you have high arches, opt for these comfortable, supportive sandals by Vionic. Not only are they incredibly lightweight, but they also feature a midsole that provides shock absorption. Their contoured design aids in stability and natural alignment. As Dr. Sutera explains, it's all about keeping your foot as neutral as possible — not pronated (rolling inward), not supinated (rolling outward), but right in the middle. The biomechanically designed sandals have even earned themselves a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association.

These shoes were made for taking on the day in comfort. The textured footbed received rave reviews during testing for preventing feet from slipping around, and we loved that they are plush and supportive with a substantial arch. One of our team members did say, however, that the rope-like toe divider was a bit uncomfortable, even after several wears.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Synthetic rubber, vinyl | Flip-flop

Best Traction

Keen women's rose sandal.

Keen Foot Wear

These shoes have a grippy rubber sole that prevents slippage.

They're on the pricier side.

If you are headed somewhere with rocky terrain or uneven cobblestone streets, you're going to want a comfy pair of sandals with great traction like this pair by Keen. The molded insole offers all-day comfort, while the ridged rubber sole and durable ankle straps provide stability as you're walking around. We especially love that the sandals are machine washable and come in 11 colors ranging from red violet to silver.

However, the comfort and walkability factors are where these shoes really shine. They proved to be pretty and stylish enough to wear to work and durable enough for long walks. Keen's "grippy sole," which includes small bumps on the inner sandal for traction, prevented any slippage when our feet got sweaty. When it came time for cleaning, we appreciated how easy it was to wipe dirt off of these sturdy sandals.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Rubber, polyester, vinyl | Semi-closed toe with straps

Most Supportive

Chaco women's zx2 classic sandal.

They're incredibly supportive and sturdy for true, all-day comfort.

To avoid any blisters or chafing, you should break them in.

Chaco is known to have amazing comfort standards, especially when hiking, and the Zx2 Classical Sandal is no exception. During our testing period, one of our team members wore these while being on their feet and walking around for almost eight hours straight, and they noted that their feet were not tired in the least. "While the high level of arch support took a bit of getting used to, my entire foot (arch, heel, ball of foot) felt supported throughout the day," they noted.

Because the straps are adjustable, wearers with all foot sizes, narrow to wide, can tighten or release the foot straps to get their perfect fit (which is extra helpful since they don't come in half sizes). While we do recommend you break them in to avoid blistering, these shoes are the ultimate supportive sandal whether you're hiking or exploring a new city.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Rubber, polyurethane, textile | Adjustable straps

Travel + Leisure / Jeanne Geer

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Lightweight

Teva women's universal trail sandals.

They're easy to pack and don't need to be broken in.

You may want to size up if you're between sizes.

For a supportive sandal that's also soft and cushiony, consider Teva's Universal Trail Sandal. While they provide the same stability as other hiking sandals, they're still portable and easy to pack, perfect for those long trips. After walking around in them, we thought they felt lightweight while also being extremely comfortable. Our feet did not get tired in them, and we found them to be sturdy enough to wear in different terrains.

These sandals are also made of Vibram Megagrip rubber that doesn't need to be broken in before wearing. After trying them out, one of our team members thought that the shoes can feel tight, so you may want to consider sizing up when buying. The sandals feature a Universal Strapping System that secures your feet through four anchor points, so you can adjust them to your perfect fit if they're on the larger side.

The Details: 6 to 11 | Rubber, polyester, mesh | Adjustable straps

Travel + Leisure / Miriam Sapozhnikov

Most Versatile

Keen women's elle backstrap sandal.

You can wear these stylish shoes all day long and not look out of place at various locations.

There's very little arch support.

Whether you're planning a long hike, walk on the beach, or city adventure, these sandals are a comfortable and stylish option for a full day of activities and are sophisticated enough to wear to dinner as well. They feature stretchy straps (made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles) that fit tightly without cutting off circulation or losing their stretch over time. While the soles of the sandals are fairly flat, they're have a memory foam feel to mold to your foot and keep you supported.

"You definitely get what you pay for with this stylish shoe that fits your foot and holds up for miles of walking wherever your travels take you," our team member who tested these said. "I would definitely recommend these shoes ... They're stylish and durable, and they're flat, so they're easy to pack for a trip or quick getaway."

The Details: 5 to 11 | EVA, gore, microfiber | Back strap

Travel + Leisure / Rachel Thalhuber

Best Quick-dry

Teva tirra sandals.

The Tirra Sandal is made of water-friendly, easy-to-clean materials and boasts excellent stability, cushioning, and arch support.

Those with wider feet might want to order a half-size up.

The adjustable straps on Teva's Tirra Sandals offer a customized fit. We didn't have any issues with sizing during our tests, and liked how the straps don't dig into the skin (though women with wider feet may want to order a half-size up). The straps are made of a quick-dry webbing material sourced from plastic bottles and recycled performance polyester. It's also treated with Life Natural, an eco-friendly peppermint-based antimicrobial that keeps odor-causing bacteria at bay.

These sandals have excellent stability and arch support, so you'll be comfortable walking long distances or standing for several hours. They have the perfect amount of cushioning to absorb shock without feeling too squishy. Not only that, but there was no break-in period whatsoever — you can take them out for a walk right out of the box. Considering the high-quality design and easy-to-clean, water-friendly materials, we think the price is right on point.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Rubber, EVA, polyester | Adjustable straps

Travel + Leisure / Katie Tuttle

Best for Hiking

Teva zymic women’s sandal.

These adventure-ready sandals absorb shock, support your arches, and keep you stable on your feet while hitting the trails.

They only come in whole sizes, so consider ordering up if you're in between.

Need something for hiking? Teva's Zymic Sandal is your best bet. The thick injection-molded sole does a great job absorbing shock, the contoured footbeds provide plenty of arch support, and the cushiony feel gives you a nice spring in your step. We didn't notice any instability in our knees or ankles when hitting the trails. Not only great on dirt hiking paths, these were also comfortable to wear on grass and sidewalks.

The straps aren't padded, but the soft material doesn't chafe or dig into the skin. We felt that these sandals were true to size, but since they don't come in half-sizes, you'll want to order up if you're in between and adjust the straps as needed. The Zymic is not only super comfortable but also lightweight, like you're walking on air. Considering how durable and versatile the design is — you could wear it for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, or running errands — we think the price is absolutely reasonable.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Injection-molded EVA, rubber | Adjustable straps

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Best for All-day Wear

Keen women's ellecity backstrap sandal.

These lightweight, cushy, high-traction, odor-treated sandals will keep your feet feeling and smelling good for hours on end.

The front straps aren't adjustable and might be too loose for narrower feet.

You can wear Keen Ellecity Sandals all day without worrying about your feet hurting. We appreciated how the lightweight design didn't drag down our feet and loved how exceptionally cushy the footbeds are. Our knees and ankles felt stable when walking around, and the high-traction outsoles helped keep us steady on our feet. You could wear these sandals to work, on a walk, on a travel day, to a theme park, or at a festival and have peace of mind knowing they'll stay comfortable until you take them off. What's more, they have an anti-odor treatment we can confirm prevents smelly feet, even after wearing them outside all day.

The modest platform heel gives you a little extra height without sacrificing the sporty appeal of this sandal. We thought it fit perfectly and liked how the straps kept our feet in place. (But since the front straps aren't adjustable, they might be slightly too loose for women with narrower feet). The break-in period wasn't painful, either — no blisters or irritated skin. All things considered, we would definitely pay full price for these sandals.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Rubber, EVA, nubuck leather | Adjustable back strap platform

Travel + Leisure / Stephanie Lewis

Best Cushion

Merrell bravada backstrap sandal.

The cushioned Bravada Sandal is super supportive and responsive, springing you into your next step while keeping you steady on your feet.

 It only comes in whole sizes, so consider ordering a half-size down if you're in between.

We were also big fans of the Merrell Bravada Sandal. With Velcro straps across the heel, ankle, and forefoot, you can adjust the fit in three areas. Our feet stayed securely in place, and the lightly padded straps didn't rub or dig into our skin. We felt very stable while walking on the beach, sidewalks, trails, and other terrain. These cushioned sandals are incredibly responsive, with an almost bouncy feel that springs you into your next stride.

You can actually feel the arch support in the footbeds when you walk — not so much that it's distracting but just enough that you feel supported with each step. After wearing these sandals on many occasions, we're happy to report absolutely no heel pain, blisters, strained arches, or discomfort whatsoever. There was no break-in period, either, so don't be afraid to wear them all day right out of the box. The only thing to note is that the Bravada only comes in whole sizes, so think about ordering a half-size down if you're in between.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Rubber, EVA, mesh | Adjustable straps

Travel + Leisure / Katrina Cossey

Best All-terrain

Hoka hopara sandals.

With shock-absorbing soles, ample cushioning, and a springy feel, wearing this shoe-sandal hybrid is like walking on air.

The closed-toe style looks more like a sneaker than a sandal, and without straps, it can be hard to get on.

Calling all outdoor adventurists! The Hoka Hopara is just the thing for warm weather excursions. Designed for any terrain, this shoe-sandal hybrid has ample cushioning that keeps you stable when transitioning from concrete to trails to grass. The squishy, springy feel helps you push off from one step to the next. Meanwhile, the thick rubber soles absorb shock from the ground, and the arch support prevents foot fatigue.

This shoe doesn't have any straps, so you'll have to use the heel tab to pull it on, but you can adjust the tightness with the bungee laces. The neoprene and mesh uppers felt good on our skin, even without socks, and we didn't experience any chafing or blisters. Wearing Hoparas feels like you're walking on air, and you don't have to worry about breaking them in before wearing them on a hike. The style might not be everyone's cup of tea, but if you're looking for an all-terrain sneaker alternative, you really can't go wrong.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Rubber, EVA, neoprene, mesh | Closed-toe hybrid

Travel + Leisure / Rachel Marek

Most Unique

Sorel kinetic impact ii sling low sandal.

These statement-making sandals are supportive, responsive, and exceptionally lightweight with a cloud-like feel.

They run large, and the back strap only adjusts so much, so think about ordering a half-size down.

Sorel's signature chunky, scalloped sole makes the Kinetic Impact II Sling Sandal stand out from the rest. But the statement-making design doesn't just look cool — it's also supremely comfortable. These supportive, padded, and slightly squishy sandals have a very responsive, stable feel that rolls your foot forward while helping you push off for your next step. They're also exceptionally lightweight with a cloud-like feel that won't hold you back on long walks.

These sandals have soft, wide leather straps across the top. The material is nice, but it could rub on your skin, depending on the shape of your feet. Also, the back strap only adjusts so much, and since Sorels typically run large, you might want to order a half-size down to make sure they aren't too loose. Still, if you don't want to choose between fashion and comfort, these are the warm weather shoes to get.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Rubber, molded EVA, leather | Adjustable back strap

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Best Adjustable

Ecco flowt 2 band sandal.

These stylish sandals offer a customized fit with Velcro straps, and the cushioned design keeps you comfy while preventing heel pain.

The sizes are inexact, and the white soles might discolor quickly.

We thought Ecco's Flowt 2 Band Sandals fit great. Though the sizes are inexact (they come in 7/7.5, 8/8.5, 9/9.5, etc.), you still know what size to order if you're in between. Not only that, but the adjustable Velcro straps make it easy to get a customized fit while ensuring they stay securely on your feet. Our feet never felt like they were sliding around, but they didn't feel too tight or constricted, either. And the soft leather straps didn't cause any chafing or blisters.

These simple yet stylish sandals are immensely comfortable. They support your arches while absorbing shock and keeping your ankles and knees stable. Thanks to the responsive, cushioned design, we didn't experience any discomfort — and those with plantar fasciitis can have peace of mind knowing their heels won't hurt. We love that the versatile design could be worn with just about any warm weather ensemble and definitely think the price is warranted.

The Details: 4 to 12.5 | EVA, leather, elastic | Adjustable straps

Travel + Leisure / Abigail Mercer

We researched today's most comfortable sandals for women and selected 50 styles to try firsthand. After examining the materials, inspecting the construction, and noting any defects, we tried each pair on and wore them as often as possible during a six-month testing period. The sandals were worn while walking on various terrains and tested for several hours on a single day to see if they remained comfortable.

We logged how our feet felt while wearing the sandals and noted any rubbing, chafing, blisters, pain, pressure, or discomfort. Additionally, we evaluated whether the sandals had a break-in period or if they were comfortable enough to wear for multiple hours right off the bat. Each pair was scored for fit, stability, cushioning, responsiveness, comfort, quality, and value, and those with the highest overall ratings are featured here.

Three of the sandals we reviewed had fans among our team members, but certain pitfalls ultimately kept them off our list of the most comfortable options.

Steve Madden Kimmie Espadrille Sandal : Despite the comfort of these shoes' elasticized ankle wrap and molded footbed, we found them to be very narrow. While shoppers with slender feet may have no problems with them, those with wider feet likely won't find them comfortable.

Ugg Yarrow Espadrille Wedge Sandal : While they're certainly stylish, we felt the zipper on the heel rubbed badly enough to keep them off our comfort-based list.

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandal : These slides are versatile in that they can be dressed up or down, but after trying them out, we came to the conculsion that the leather uppers make them too uncomfortable to be good walking shoes.

Tips for Buying Comfortable Sandals

Choose features that signal comfort.

One main aspect to look for in a shoe for comfort is arch support. Arch support — that little bump in the center of the insole — will help you maintain better alignment. "It's normal to pronate throughout the gait cycle, but it's overpronation that causes a lot of problems when you have a flat foot, like heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis — and even stress fractures can happen. An arch support keeps you from overpronating," Dr. Sutera says. A thicker overall sole is best, too. And one that thickens beneath the heel is preferable to one that's totally flat.

Whether you're shopping for sandals or a pair of slippers , the right footwear can also be part of therapy if you have a foot condition. Dr. Sutera suggests features like wide toe boxes for shoppers with bunions, extra arch support for those with high arches and insteps, and, especially in sandals, a footbed that isn't completely flat.

Materials make a difference

Durable materials like rubber and leather are always wise choices when it comes to sandals, as both are typically lightweight and easy to clean. Rubber also expertly repels moisture, while leather remains breathable even in heat and humidity. Leather can take longer to break in, but once you have, it wears well. Other materials, like suede and memory foam, make for soft and comfortable footbeds. However, foam usually doesn't last as long: even if a foam shoe still looks good, long-term wear can diminish its supportive qualities, so keep an eye on any pairs with foam footbeds to see when they might need replacing.

Consider style and your intended use

While style mainly depends on personal preference —and you'll want to buy a shoe that you'll wear long-term — you should take intended activities into consideration as well. For beach or lake days, a pair of thong flip-flops or comfy slides are good choices. If you plan on hiking or getting active on uneven terrain, a pair with ankle straps and multiple straps over the top of the foot is best. Going to a formal event? You can't go wrong with strappy heels or stylishly comfortable wedges , as long as they have plenty of support and padding. There are a variety of podiatrist-approved comfortable heels to choose from for those dressier occasions.

Podiatrists usually recommend sandals with thick soles that have ankle straps and arch support. You'll want to avoid flat sandals with a thin bottom as they're more likely to harm the soles of your feet.

The most supportive sandals for women should have a cushioned, thick sole to promote arch support. Any sandal should also have a strap to support your ankle and help keep your foot in places while walking. You should prioritize health over style, too, when it comes to sandals with a wedged heel as they can place more weight on the sole of your foot and lead to pain.

Sandals can be a perfectly good option even for long walks. Especially in hotter climates or near water, sandals can be a good, breathable option for hiking or walking. Be sure to select a pair with sufficient arch support and breathability to keep you comfortable and protect the soles of your feet. If you're near water, you can also choose a pair of water-resistant or quick drying sandals that won't chafe or slip.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Hillary Maglin and Theresa Holland researched today's most comfortable women's sandals, compiled T+L's long-term testing insights, and combed through product specs to curate a comprehensive list of trusted recommendations. We also spoke with New York podiatrist and foot surgeon Dr. Jacqueline Sutera for insight into the importance of supportive footwear and what to look for when buying it.

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The 20 Best Travel Sandals for Women, According to Experts

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When you’re packing for a warm-weather destination, the goal is always to pack light. However, shoes can make it tricky to do so — especially when you plan to bring multiple pairs. Sure, you can wear one on the plane to save space, but chances are you’re going to want a few travel shoes to style with your vacation looks. “I usually divide travel sandals into three categories: flats , wedges and heels,” notes Silicon Valley-based podiatrist Najwa Javed . Travel blogger Jennifer Chan simplifies the packing process by thinking about color palettes. “I pick chic, neutral styles that easily pair with casual outfits, swimwear, strappy sundresses and anything in my suitcase,” says Chan.

On top of that, you have to consider what activities you’ll be doing. WiIl you be hanging by the pool and sipping cocktails for the entirety of your trip? You’ll want a pair of cute summer sandals . Or will you be trekking on sightseeing tours or hiking ? Then you’ll need some comfortable walking sandals . “Sandals should be comfortable, no matter the occasion, so if they’re not completely supportive and comfortable, they won’t make the cut in my travel bag,” Chan adds.

What to consider for the best travel sandals

• Fit : Travel shoes should be soft and breathable; mesh uppers are the best,” Dr. Javed explains. “Wearing a style with a soft upper and stability sole is a great way to travel.”
• Materials : “Travel shoes must have sturdy soles, especially for traveling to destinations where the roads are brick or cobblestone.” Dr. Javed explains that wearing shoes with sturdy soles reduces the strain on the foot caused by uneven surfaces. Additionally, “when you travel, there is increased water retention, which causes the feet to swell, and having an upper that stretches allows for comfort as the day goes on,” she says. Pro tip: If you like to wear an open-toed shoe, choose a pair that has large straps that are soft and can stretch easily.
• Features : Dr. Javed mentions orthotic support is key when traveling, “especially if you’re walking for long periods of time and have collapsed arches or flat feet ,” she says. Shoes with a large toe box can help reduce friction that can cause blisters. “If you chose to wear a backless shoe, make sure it has an ankle strap to help stabilize the shoe on the foot,” she adds. Chan says she also looks for styles with arch support and cushioned footbeds, as well as those made of genuine leather, which “will stretch and not snap or break and actually stand the test of time.”

To shop the 20 best travel sandals for women tested by the pros, keep scrolling.

Want to up your shoe game? Sign up for  Footwear News’ Weekly Style newsletter  to stay in the know on the latest sneaker releases and best footwear finds to shop now. 

Top Travel Sandals for Women

• Best Travel Shoes for Tropical Vacations: Reef Cushion Slim
• Best Wedges: Ugg Yarrow Sandals
• Best Block Heels: Open Edit Cora Heel Sandals
• Best Travel Shoes for Light Day Hikes: Teva Hurricane Xlt2 Sport Sandals
• Best for Pregnant Women: Dr. Scholl’s Island Life Sandals
• Best Travel Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Skechers On-The-go 600-Preferred Flip-Flops
• Best Lightweight Travel Shoes: Crocs Cleo Sandals
• Best Travel Shoes for Sightseeing: Wolf & Badger Darya Gladiator Sandals
• Best Travel Shoes With Arch Support: Vionic Tide II Toe Post Sandals
• Best Travel Shoes for Rugged Outdoor Activities: Keen Whisper Sandals
• Best Multifunctional Travel Shoes: Chaco Z1 Classic Sandals
• Best Waterproof Travel Shoes: Birkenstock Honolulu Sandals
• Best Travel Shoes for Walking: Oofos Ooahh Slide Sandals
• Best Platform Sandals: Reef Cushion Vista Hi Slides
• Best Resort Sandals: M. Gemi The Clio

Tkees Foundation Sandals

• Best Travel Shoes for Orthotics: Aerosoles Brianna Flatform Sandals
• Best Travel Shoes for Dressy Looks: Tory Burch Miller Leather Sandals

Crocs LiteRide Stretch Sandals

• Best Cozy Slides: M. Gemi The Matilde Shearling

Reef Cushion Slim Sandals

Best Travel Shoes for Tropical Climates

“I’m a creature of habit and always gravitate towards slim, nude sandals for tropical travels,” Chan says. She calls these out for offering unparalleled support. Instead of being made of memory foam like most sandals, these have a footbed made of Reef’s signature rebound foam for more cushioning in every step. The sandals also include anatomical arch support and heel cupping for added comfort. “They’re also super affordable, which makes them great for walking along the beach or hanging at the hotel pool, since they aren’t too precious,” Chan says.

Reef Cushion Slim

Ugg yarrow sandals.

Best Wedges

It comes as no surprise that Ugg’s wedge sandals are just as comfortable as the brand’s OG winter slippers . One reviewer mentioned that she was looking for “low-heeled, comfy sandals for a wedding , and these were surprisingly very comfortable and really cute in person.” They have a flexible footbed, ample padding and perfect angle between the heel and ball of the foot. Pro tip: Tie the ankle straps in a bow at the front for a girly touch or wrap them in the back for a more minimal look.

Open Edit Cora Heel Sandals

Best Block Heels 

Dr. Javed is a fan of this fashion-forward high heel sandal from Open Edit . The thick block heel makes for easy walking and the twisted top adds textural interest. “Cute, comfy and affordable!” writes one reviewer. “They feel like butter on your foot.” These sandals run true to size and come in black or mocha leather for easy styling from day to night.

Teva Hurricane Xlt2 Sport Sandals

Best Travel Shoes for Light Day Hikes

This unisex Teva style features recycled polyester straps in two different widths: 22 millimeters for women and 26 millimeters for men. The rubber outsole is made to tackle rough terrain and the robust EVA footbed keeps your foot stable, no matter the gravel beneath it. These come in a bunch of different colorways, from a bold stark white (that you probably should only wear indoors) to a fun purple and chartreuse version.

Dr. Scholl’s Island Life Sandals

Best for Pregnant Women

Like all of Dr. Scholl’s expertly crafted pairs, these are meant to be worn all day. Not only do they feature a lightweight, flexible construction, but they also have a stretchy strap for maximum comfort. They even pass the pregnancy test. “I bought these to wear in nice weather during my pregnancy because I needed more support, and I love that the back of the shoe doesn’t hurt my ankles,” writes one reviewer. The faux wood wedge heel and scalloped sole design give these island vibes for effortless wear from the pool to dinner at the resort.

Dr. Scholl's Island Life Sandals

Skechers on-the-go 600-preferred flip-flops.

Best Travel Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Many reviewers note that this particular Skechers style runs large but is comfortably roomy for travel. “I wore these all over 11 days in Italy, eight days in NYC in the summer and all over Southern California,” says one, with another commenting how great they are at soothing plantar fasciitis pain. “They’re squishy, soft and have a good molded footbed that allows me to wear them for a long time and still not have feet/knee/back problems,” explains the happy customer. Bonus: You can get them wet and they have really good traction.

Crocs Cleo Sandals

Best Lightweight Travel Shoes

Whether you’re just packing light or prefer an airy sole, these Crocs sandals won’t disappoint. The minimal design is extra breathable, especially for wide feet. These are also versatile and easy to clean. “I can play with my kids at the splash pad, take a trip to the farmer’s market or wear these on the beach and not worry about them getting wet or ruined,” raves one reviewer. For $30, these breezy slides that come in four fun shades are a no-brainer.

Wolf & Badger Darya Gladiator Sandals

Best Travel Shoes for Sightseeing

Wolf & Badger’s Brazilian-made gladiator sandals are sturdy, supportive and composed of quality vegan leather. “I love how secure I feel in these sandals while I’m running around a new city,” notes Chan. The wrapped footbed and low 0.5-inch heel make them ideal walking shoes . The ankle-wrap style, featuring a neutral color-blocked twist, will add a stylish look to any sightseeing outfit.

Vionic Tide II Toe Post Sandals

Best Travel Shoes With Arch Support

Dr. Javed points to Vionic  for specializing in foot health, and this popular style lives up to the hype. It features a molded, contoured footbed that supports the arch, which helps alleviate conditions like plantar fasciitis. Plus, the thong design accommodates issues like bunions . Note: These shoes do run a bit big, so it might be wise to order a a half size down.

Keen Whisper Sandals

Best Travel Shoes for Rugged Outdoor Activities

If you fancy yourself an adventurer, these athletic Keen sandals are a must buy. The grippy rubber soles reduce slippage on slick, loose surfaces like gravel. For a custom fit, the quick-cinch bungee lacing lets you tighten or loosen the fit to keep your foot secure. Think of these lightweight, breathable and water-ready slides as your ready-for-anything outdoor companion.

Keen Whisper

Chaco z1 classic sandals.

Best Multifunctional Travel Shoes

These functional Chaco shoes have become for travel among the fashion crowd. They’re made with the brand’s trademarked Luvseat footbed and Chacogrip outsole that cradles the foot for all-day comfort. These are practical for a trail hike but trendy enough to wear to a festival. Pro tip: They do run small, so make sure to size up if you’re between sizes.

Birkenstock Honolulu Sandals

Best Waterproof Travel Shoes

Not your average pair of thong sandals, these Birkenstock flip-flops include the brand’s signature contoured footbed with a deep heel cup and arch support, so you can avoid any aches and pains down the road. They also have a waterproof rubber outsole to keep feet stable and dry while you hit the pool or beach. These come in several different hues, including classic black and white.

Birkenstock Honolulu

Oofos ooahh slide sandals.

Best Travel Shoes for Walking

“These Oofos sandals may not be the cutest, but their immense support and cushion make up for that,” Chan reveals. The patented OOfoam technology is designed to absorb 37% more impact than traditional footwear tech. Translation: These are built to reduce stress on your joints. “These sandals are a godsend for anyone who knows they’ll be on their feet for hours on end ,” she adds.

Reef Cushion Vista Hi Slides

Best Platform Sandals

This Reef cushy slide will go with all your vacation looks — think denim cutoffs, flowy dresses and everything in between. The classic two-strap slide is made of vegan leather and has a 100% natural cork footbed. It has a wider shape, generous arch support and heel cupping — not to mention the brand’s signature cushioning. The trendy platform lug design comes in eight colorways, so there’s an option for every type of vacation mood.

Reef Cushion Vista Hi

M. gemi the clio sandals.

Best Resort Sandals

If you’re looking for a sleek design that seamlessly transitions from TSA lines to the pool, scoop up these elegant puffy slides from M. Gemi . They’re handmade in Italy, featuring hand woven leather detailing and a lightweight, flexible sole. These come in a champagne, gold or lavender finish, each with a black sole that can effortlessly tie together any look.

M. Gemi The Clio

The name of these minimalist flip-flops say it all. They’re called Nudes because they come in 11 neutral shades, ranging from dark to light. “I never leave home without these Tkees sandals because they go with absolutely everything, and there’s a flattering shade for every skin tone,” Chan says. They’re perfect for the pool, happy hour, dinner, running and around a tropical island. Oh, and they’re insanely comfortable, too. Each pair is handcrafted from soft Brazilian leather with a cushioned insole and rubber outsole for comfort.

Aerosoles Brianna Flatform Sandals

Best Travel Shoes for Orthotics

A low, even platform sandal is on-trend and easy on your feet. This metallic style from Aerosoles has a cushioned, contoured footbed and thick, soft leather straps. Since it features an enclosed heel, it’ll also work with orthotics if you need the extra support. Wear these as part of your daily warm-weather uniform with a tee and shorts.

Aerosoles Brianna Flatform Sandals 

Tory burch miller leather sandals.

Best Travel Shoes for Dressy Looks

Admittedly, Chan has owned these nude patent leather sandals from Tory Burch for years, and she is blown away by their durability. “They still look good as new, and I have toted them all over the globe,” notes the expert. Pro tip: They look great with sundresses, shorts and swimsuits. “They are unbelievably comfortable and add a touch of casual elegance to every look,” she adds.

These hot pink summer sandals by Crocs have vacation written all over them. For starters, the foam insoles are made with a sink-in softness that’s ideal for lots of walking. Even more anatomical shaping with arch support ensures feet have necessary support. The straps are flexible and crafted to feel broken-in from the very first wear.

M. Gemi The Matilde Shearling

Best Cozy Slides

If you’re looking for a cozy airplane slide, this luxe Italian-made pair by M. Gemi won’t do you wrong. The molded footbed is fully lined in genuine shearling, and the fully adjustable buckles are covered in custom calf leather. These shoes might look bulky, but they’re actually so lightweight thanks to their EVA rubber sole. Whether you choose a pair in black or tan, these chic slides will be a travel staple for years to come.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Najwa Javed is a Silicon-Valley based podiatrist and founder of E’mar Italy, a luxury heels brand focused on creating wearable elevated styles. Designed to be comfortable heels for everyday, travel or special occasions, her shoes all feature a patent-pending inlay that uses biomechanically-designed arch inclines to redistribute pressure.

Jennifer Chan is a travel journalist and Los Angeles-based media personality and beauty and style writer, with expertise in the best travel shoes for women. Her work currently appears on People.com. She is also an on-air TV host for Access Hollywood.

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Home » Gear » best travel sandals

Best Travel Sandals of 2024 • MUST READ • Top Picks for Backpackers

One of the most important aspects for your travel wardrobe has got to be the humble travel sandal. Your sandals will be your best friends throughout your travel adventures, seeing you through hikes, beach parties, urban explorations as well as markets, trains and buses.

But there is a surprising amount of choice out there in terms of sandals. From all sorts of different styles – flip-flops, watersport sandals and more – to the different levels of quality that can be found, there is a lot to think about.

With this in mind, we have decided to create a very handy list of our top travel sandals of 2024.

Our aim is to help you find the best travel sandal for you – whether you want to go hiking, spend hours walking around towns and cities, or simply chill by the beach. So we made sure to include a whole load of curated choices on our list, as well as a handy guide to help you truly decide what will be the best options for you.

So without further ado, let’s have a look and see what’s going to be the best fit!

Quick Answer: These are the Best Travel Sandals of 2024

Best travel sandals of 2024, #1 – best overall travel sandals, #2 – best travel sandals for men, #3 – best travel sandals for women, #4 – best multi sport sandals, #5 – best cheap travel sandals, #6 – best eco travel sandals, #8 – best sandals for urban travel, more of the best travel sandals (mens), more of the best travel sandals (women’s), buyer guide – how to choose the best travel sandals for you, faq about the best travel sandals, final thoughts on the best travel sandals.

• #1  Teva Original Universal Urban Sandals  – Best Overall Travel Sandals
• #2  OluKai ‘Ilikai Sandals Mens – Best Travel Sandals for Men
• #3  OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops  – Best Travel Sandals for Women
• #4  Men’s Newport H2 Hiking Sandals by KEEN Footwear  – Best Multi Sport Sandals
• #5  Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flops  – Best Cheap Travel Sandals
• #6  Men’s Newport by KEEN Footwear  – Best Eco Travel Sandals
• #7  Teva Original Universal Sandals Women  – Best Sandals for Urban Travel

Teva Original Universal Urban Sandals

• > Squashy rubber sole
• > Super durable and quick drying

OluKai ‘Ilikai Sandals Mens

• > Burnished full-grain leather
• > Wide strap

OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops

• > Soft and supple
• > Made of real yoga mat material

Men’s Newport H2 Hiking Sandals by KEEN Footwear

• > Versatility and comfort
• > Built with sturdy, hiking shoe-level grips

Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flops

• > Casual comfort
• > Made with leather-like vegan straps

KEEN Newport H2 Sandals

• > Made from recycled water resistant PET plastic
• > Long lasting

Teva Original Universal Sandals Women

• > Fashionable
• > Super lightweight

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Teva sandals are the original and the best. So it’s no wonder, really, that the Teva Original Universal Urban sandals are our top, number one pick for the best travel sandals out there at the moment. I have been using the same pair of Teva sandals for the last seven years – a testament to their quality and durability. I am actually wearing them right now as I type from Bali!

So why do I like them?

They’re lightweight, comfortable and as mentioned –  long lasting (which makes them great value for money), Teva’s tick a lot of boxes when it comes to finding the perfect travel sandal for just about any situation.

Not only that, but they are pretty cool, too, and the basic, minimal design means you can pair them with a whole load of different clothing – from loose pants in India to shorts in Thailand.

They’ve been designed to be used throughout the day, with a squashy rubber sole that has more grip than your average slippy sandal. The straps, too, are adjustable around the heel, top of the foot and toes, which means you can get the fit just right.

The straps on the Tevas are made with water-ready polyester webbing, which means they’re super durable and are quick drying – perfect if you get caught in an urban downpour or splash through a stream on a trek.

One of my favorite things about Tevas – aside from the comfort and style credentials – is that you can buy them in different styles and patterns too. The Teav Universal should be a staple in every backpackers gear kit. Period.

For when you need something easy, and comfortable, to slip on, and that’s durable to boot, the OluKai ‘Ilikai Sandals come into play. In fact, we think that they’re the best travel sandals for men right now.

These babies are made from burnished full-grain leather, which means they are built to last. The price may be slightly high for sandals, but for the quality materials used in the construction of these sandals – and the long life you get out of them – we’d say it’s worth it.

The sole of the ‘Ilikai sandals, where your foot sits, basically, is contoured to fit your foot for lasting comfort and support as you walk around your new surroundings. Something else that helps with comfort is the wide strap, helping your feet feel snug, while the nylon toe post is designed for all day comfort.

The design of these sandals, almost like a flip-flop, is simple, lacking the same straps as Teva models and other more active/technical sandals, but also looks smarter than more active “travel-y” sandals, meaning they are pretty versatile; you can wear them to the beach, you can wear them to the bar.

They’re winners for us!

Soft and supple, this slim, tight sandal is all about comfort. Sometimes that’s not something you get in a sandal – especially in women’s sandals – which is why the OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops has made its way to our top spot for the best travel sandal for women.

Even though the patern feature is cool, our favorite thing about this awesome travel sandal is the soft straps. These are made from two-way stretch knit, which create a super snug, sling-like environment for your foot to fit in most comfortably.

Under the foot bed of the OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops, the sole is made from super soft rubber. This is designed for comfort as well as support, with some grip added for good measure. Pounding pavements all day can wreak havoc on even the strongest feet, but having a comfortable sandal to take the strain has never looked this chic.

Men’s Newport H2 Hiking Sandals by KEEN Footwear

If you want to get out there and be active, but you’re exploring a country in summer – or you’re heading out to adventure in a Southeast Asian country , for example, that’s perpetually hot and humid – you don’t want to walk around in a covered shoe. Your feet will get extremely sweaty and the result is not pleasant for anybody!

The solution? A sandal.

But not just any sandal. If you want our advice for the best multi sport sandal out there right now, it’s got to be the KEEN Footwear Men’s Newport H2 Hiking Sandals.

Basically like a hiking boot, but in a snazzy and streamlined sandal format, this KEEN Footwear offering will provide versatility and comfort… all whilst protecting your feet from the strains of walking, from the elements, and (most importantly) allowing them to breathe.

The soles of these cool travel sandals are heavy duty indeed. They are built with sturdy, hiking shoe-level grips that provide excellent traction that will take you over all sorts of tricky terrain.

Whether you are hiking in the hills, walking along roads, or wading through water, these rugged sandals will see you through. No doubt about that.

Travel sandals don’t always have to be expensive. In fact, they can be pretty budget-friendly AND remain good quality, too. Enter the Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flops, our choice for the best cheap travel sandals of the year.

Made for casual comfort (as the name implies!), the foot beds of the Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flops feel like pillows, but are made from real yoga mats. Your foot will feel like it’s perpetually treading on matting as you explore a new place, which sounds pretty great to us.

Another top feature of these awesome sandals is that they are made with leather-like vegan straps. That’s right: these babies are vegan friendly! As for comfort, they’re probably going to be some of the most comfortable sandals you’ve ever worn. I have also had a pair of these for a few years and they are an awesome basic flip-flop.

They’ll also last you a long time. You won’t want to even TRY another sandal after this!

So there are a lot of things to like about these top travel sandals – and they’re some of the best cheap ones out there. It just goes to show that you don’t have to fork out top dollar for top quality.

Mens Keen Newport H2 Sandals

Though it’s always been important, products having eco credentials in this day and age is something that is becoming more and more of a focus. These sandals are able to provide everything you need out of a sandal while also having a green footprint – a big win for all of us here at The Broke Backpacker .

Another offering on our list from KEEN Footwear, the Men’s Newport Toe Post sandals are consciously created: they are made from recycled, water resistant PET plastic. Plastic water bottles for water and soft drinks that normally go to waste are being reused in this top travel sandal, which is pretty awesome.

Another point that makes them eco is that they are quite durable – you won’t have to keep replacing them, like so often happens with lesser quality travel sandals. You know the type: they’re good for one few-months-long trip and then they’re done, the strap breaks or the rubber starts cracking. Not good.

As for style, this sandal is all about muted tones, with subtle color palette choices reflecting nature, running from dark olive to “stormy weather” (blue) and “stone” (grey).

Teva Original Universal Sandals

Also coming in a women’s equivalent, Teva once again come onto our list of the top travel sandals out there because, well, they’re damn cool.

Our favorite sandals for urban travel, the Original Universal sandals come in a range of patterns with funky names like “cayambe navy multi” and “double diamond deep lake”.

But we’re all about the women’s equivalents. They are suitably fashionable and actually come in a wider range of patterns than the men’s, with colorful cacti print or sun and moons adorning the straps, which means you can really customize your look.

If you’re feeling flush, you could even purchase a few different pairs to suit your mood!

They’re also super lightweight, meaning you can attach them easily to your backpack; the soft straps means the sandals can fit pretty flat and be tucked inside a suitcase, traveling backpack or daypack equally without much notice.

We’re BIG fans, can you tell!?

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While what we’ve already shared with are definitely some of the top travel sandals you can get out there at the moment, there are actually so many more options that deserve more than just an honorable mention. So here are some more of the best travel sandals that you can get your feet into! We’ll start off with the mens…

Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals

Arriving from Chaco, the Z/Cloud Sandals really are some of the best out there. In fact, they are exactly what they sound like: they feel like clouds on your feet, they’re that comfortable!

Perfect for people who want to enjoy water sports, the Chaco Z/Clouds come with polyester Jacquard straps, which means they are not only quick drying but also won’t rub and – perhaps most importantly – are super durable.

The buckles are designed to last and secure the straps that wrap around your feet, reducing chances of slipping on the soles.

Speaking of soles, these are actually really high spec. In fact, the top sole – i.e. where your foot sits – are constructed of 5mm cushioning that has been podiatrist certified, meaning that not only are they comfortable, but they also cup your heels so that you won’t get any long term aches and pains from wearing these things all the time. Which you will definitely want to do, by the way!

The sole itself has a 3.5mm lug depth, which means that you can get traction whether you’re on dry or wet surfaces.

Basically, there are a lot of reasons to love this classic travel sandal. It comes in four different designs: black, fleet moss (green), nik port (orange and yellow on black), and stitch cafe (earthy orange).

It is the kind of brand you will keep going back to – and recommend all your friends to buy, too!

Rainbow Sandals Premier Leather Flip-flops

Ok, so these travel sandals may not look all that special, but the simple, sleek and minimal design of this offering from Rainbow Sandals is actually constructed out of top grade materials to provide ultimate comfort and durability.

These top travel sandals are made from nubuck full-grain leather, which ensures softness and suppleness, but leather being leather, it means that the Rainbow Sandals’ Premier leather flip-flops will also be pretty long lasting too.

These are the kind of casual sandal that you can simply slip on and head out for any sort of day or evening, whether you’re simply on vacation or you’re heading down to the grocery store.

They may not be designed for rugged, wet activities, but we love the simple but stylish design of these sandals. They come in light brown, dark brown, black and navy, making sure that you’ll be covered with any outfit choice you may make.

Never fear: they come extra bolstered by a multitude of glowing reviews from (very) happy customers.

Teva Terra Fi 5 Sandals

Yet another offering from sandal kings, Teva (yes, we’re fans), the Terra Fi 5 sandals have a bit more of a rugged feel – and look – to them than the Original Universals we have already talked about. The spec is slightly more geared towards adventuring and hiking, so for all those looking for a top travel sandal for a backpacking trip, this could be it.

Just taking at the soles of the Teva Terra Fi 5 sandal reveals a heavier amount of grip for traction than the Original Universals. It’s deeper and more angled for perfect grip.

Inside, the foot bed is much more contoured to the shape of the foot, meaning the amount of support provided is much higher here. On the topsole itself there is even some grip to ensure that your foot doesn’t slide around on top.

The arch support on this cool travel sandal is also great, meaning you won’t get sore feet after a long day of hiking in the dust, mud or across rocky terrain. They’re designed for multiple uses, in fact, from hiking to watersports.

They don’t come in a load of colors like other Teva sandals, but these ones mean business in the technical spec department, so it doesn’t matter all too much!

KEEN Footwear Targhee III Sandal

Designed based on their award-winning boot of the same name, the KEEN Footwear Targhee III sandal is an open-foot option for all your rugged sports or outdoor adventuring needs.

They aim to create “ultimate trail freedom” and we think they’ve pretty much achieved it with this awesome travel sandal.

From the rugged outsole, with its multidimensional lug pattern (hello, super traction), to the quick drying lining and premium leather uppers, we think it’s safe to say that the high end specifications of the Targehee III sandal result in a pretty high end product that will accompany you for years to come.

Their waterproof credentials means you can wear them across different terrains; combined with the superior grip, they’d be especially good for waterfall tracing and walking rocky coastal paths.

The plus point is that these babies come with eco anti-odor control, so you the problem of getting stinky feet after a long day of hiking on grueling trails is minimized. The quick drying nature of them also means you won’t have to wait around for them to dry to embark on the next stretch of your journey.

Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA Sandals

Coming from classic sandal purveyor Birkenstock, these travel sandals have been based on the company’s classic cork style sandals, but are instead this time made from ultra lightweight EVA foam, making them ideal for hitting the beach or just lazing around the pool.

The perfect vacation sandal, the Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA sandals aren’t some afterthought of design: they’re actually super comfortable, and are impervious to water, meaning getting caught in a downpour won’t worry you.

They support the feet and arches perfectly for some serious comfort; the foot bed curves around the shape of the foot, making sure the fit is nice and snug. As with all Birkenstocks, this sandal comes with two straps for extra support, which are also adjustable.

The lightweight design of them means that you can pack them without having to think about extra weight – they feel like nothing at all.

For those who aren’t into the original cork Birkenstocks, you may want to reconsider when it comes to their EVA foam offerings; they actually look pretty cool, especially the khaki color (but there is also a black option). If you’ve not tried a Birkenstock before, we think this is a good one to try ’em out with!

While it may be easy to simply say that sandals are one-size-fits-all affair, that’s actually not the case at all. The field of women’s travel sandals is just as diverse as the men’s. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some more of the best travel sandals for women out there…

Chaco Banded Z/Cloud Sandals

The female version of the Chaco Z/Cloud, the Banded Z/Cloud sandals are a great option for your travel needs. Creating a comfortable pocket for your foot, the straps on this top travel sandal actually secure your foot and ensure that it won’t be sliding around on top of the sole as you explore.

The customized fit can be adjusted with one simple strap, locked in place with a durable buckle.

When it comes to the soles, there’s a lot going on here. The midsoles provide cushioning and support, enhancing comfort while you’re out being active in the world.

The non-marking grip is made from 3mm lugs, designed for traction on dry and wet terrain alike, and provides that extra security without looking too extreme or bulky.

One thing that you may like about these top travel sandals for women is that they are vegan friendly. Yes, that’s right: no materials have been used that harm animals.

The weight of the Chaco Banded/Z Cloud sandals is a big plus for us, too; weighing in as they do at just 1 pound 6.8 ounces, they can easily be attached to a bag or tucked into any daypack as you head out into the world.

OluKai Kipe’a ‘Olu Sandals

These top travel sandals are pretty versatile, which is one of our favorite things about them. The OluKai Kipe’a offerings easily take you from exploring a new town, to night time in a bar, without too much worry that you’re going to look out of place in either setting.

Made from high quality full grain leather, the straps are super soft and come in three different colors: black, coffee and cedar wood (peachy). They criss cross over the foot, securing the big toe, for an elegant, and stylish, yet practical fit.

Though they are not exactly designed for rugged terrain or excessive hiking in the wilderness, the textured traction on the sole means that you do still have a decent level of grip as you get to grips with the town, city, village, or general terrain that you happen to be exploring.

A great travel sandal if you are looking for something long lasting and high quality for your next vacation, the OluKai Kipe’a ‘Olu Sandals are a great option if you want to travel light – with only a couple or pairs of shoes – and want to avoid the fast fashion of high street brands, which often fall apart (especially if you are on a long trip).

Xero Shoes Z-Trail Sandals

Looking sort of like a slimline version of a Teva, the Z-Trail sandals which come from Xero Shoes are made to be exactly that: lightweight and easy to pack, without adding any bulk to your luggage, daypack or your feet!

Designed to be up to 76% less bulky than any other conventional sports sandals, but while still offering the same protection and covering for your feet, these sandals are only 10 millimeters thick!

In fact, they can actually ROLL UP, by which virtue they can actually end up fitting in your pocket. That’s pretty cool.

With the top sole and midsole being constructed of foam, with the outer sole being rubber, they weight in at less than 1 pound, which is extremely light for any sort of footwear, let’s be honest.

The super thin sole is still durable, don’t worry. It has been designed to make you feel that your heels aren’t unnaturally elevated or lifted, so that your posture remains nature while you wear these sandals.

There is, however, still a subtle heel cup, so that your heel is kept in place and won’t slide around.

Bonus: They’re vegan friendly and there is no latex involved. There is also an impressive warranty of 5,000 miles, which – you can bet – means they will last a long time!

OluKai Kamola Sandals – Women’s

If simple slides are what you’re looking for in terms of a top travel sandal, then you should look no further than the OluKai Kamola Sandals.

They may seem basic, but these babies are top quality.

Much like the men’s (unbraided) version, these are obviously made from full-grain leather and feel soft and supple, as well as sturdy on your feet. Even the top sole is leather clad for ultra softness on the soles of your feet.

These aren’t just for show, either, with a slight amount of grip going on with the rubber bottom soles; these are non-slip, which should see you through city and town walks – as well as poolside lazing – in style and comfort. There’s even a little bit of arch support going on here for extra cosiness.

Coming in shades of laid back neutral colors, these travel sandals for women are easily paired with numerous outfits, meaning you won’t ever feel like your sandal choice has compromised your evening wear.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

So there you have it – those were our top picks for the best travel sandals out there right now. While it is all well and good providing you with a list of the sandals we think are awesome, the next step is the tricky bit: choosing a travel sandal best sutied for your lifestyle and travel plans.

Do you go with a big name brand like Teva and play it safe? Or do you spend some more money and opt for something leather? Or if you need something more rugged, then you will probably want to go for a more specific, more active, travel sandal by Keen.

So from the materials you should be paying attention to, to the style and even the price point, we are about to take you through things you should take into consideration when choosing your next travel sandal.

You really do not want to be wearing anything on your feet that is, at any point, going to be uncomfortable. Literally one of the worst things that can happen while you’re traveling or away on vacation is finding out your brand new pair of travel sandals is actually the most uncomfortable thing ever.

They may rub, cause your feet to ache, or slip out of the straps – we’ve all been there and had an uncomfortable pair of shoes. It can totally ruin your trip, let alone your day.

Comfort, therefore, should be one of the top things that you consider when thinking about buying a new pair of travel sandals.

Thankfully, a lot of the companies behind the top travel sandals out there have researched and put much time and effort into creating sandals that actually fits the foot well for long periods of time and secures it in place to reduce rubbing and blistering potential.

Things like soft leather, or nylon webbing, in the straps are elements you should look for.

On the soles, arch support is a definite plus. Things like yoga mat top soles, and the thickness of the soles in general, will all add a difference to the sandal.

Other sandals will contour the shape of your foot over time.

The thing about opting for comfort is that the levels of comfort will vary depending on the activities that you want to do. Certain types of sandal are specifically designed for use in water activities, others are for hiking, and still more are just for urban adventuring; it’s important to know the limit of the comfort of the sandal you’re looking at – and what you really want from it.

2. Durability

Second to being the most uncomfortable things ever is the durability of a sandal. There is no point even buying a pair of travel sandals that are just not going to last.

Trust us: we are speaking from experience. Sandals that haven’t been designed with any sort of travel (maybe not even WALKING!) in mind frequently grace the shelves of high street brands and online stores, and seem to be more about style than substance.

These are the sorts of sandal you should AVOID. They will inevitably fall apart and become completely unusable.

Also, if you are on a long trip, and you’ve bought yourself a pair of travel sandals for the occasion, having them break will just be super annoying. It can actually provide an unwelcome stumbling block to your plans.

When it comes to durability, you should make sure that the company has built the sandal in question to last. Look out for things like guarantees and warranties from companies – which usually mean that they mean business in the durability department – and also make sure to read reviews from happy customers.

While not sandal will last forever, it is important to get your money’s worth out of any piece of footwear.

In addition, it goes without saying that a travel sandal for hiking is going to be much more durable than, say, an Original Universal “Urban” Teva when it comes to rugged terrain. Think about what you want to do, and choose accordingly.

Style is a real personal choice, obviously, but there is also a different sort of “style” by which we mean “type.”

There are different types of travel sandal out there which will be designed completely differently depending on what they are intended for.

For example, there are flip-flop style travel sandals, which are pretty casual. These are easygoing choices which are not meant for hiking or extensive exploration; it’s more that they are easy to put on and wander around a town or beach setting.

Then there are the more strappy, urban-type sandals, some of which are good for hiking, others of which it seems the straps are good for support, but maybe not for rugged terrain.

For the more extreme, and for those who like to push it further, there are the open-type hiking sandals; the sort which are based on hiking boots, but which have many open slits and panels for breathability. These may not be “stylish” but the type of sandal they perfectly suit the intended use, that’s for sure.

In terms of style, as in fashionable, there are a selection of sandals out there – some of which are on our list – which cover multiple uses, which are light, and versatile for many different situations.

Teva’s are pretty cool: they come in loads of colors, and do work for walking trails as much as they do an urban setting, or even a bar. Flip flop types, especially of the leather variety, can easily blend from beach bumming to beach bar in a matter of one simple outfit change. It’s all about what you want.

It may be obvious, but what you want to use your new travel sandals for is the – possibly – most crucial part of how you are really going to make your choice.

Those who really want to be active when they’re backpacking or on vacation, will definitely want to spend their money on something that is specific and suited to their lifestyles.

These sorts of travel sandals have been specifically designed for heavy duty use, are very rugged, come with amazing grip, and are waterproof and/or quick drying (as well as odor proof) so that they tick a lot of boxes for the outdoor adventurer.

These are the kinds of shoes that will become your go-to for all sorts of activities, whether it be tracing or fishing.

If you aren’t particularly into these sorts of outdoor pursuits, then specifications of high quality grip and ultra quick drying this-and-that won’t matter all that much to you.

Something else that should also come into consideration is how OFTEN you will be using them.

If the travel sandals you want to purchase are going to become your everyday shoes, then you should make sure you really like everything about them (the look, the colour, etc.), and that they suit what you get up to on a daily basis. If they are something you won’t be wearing much (i.e. they’re being bought for a specific vacation) then the travel sandals you choose may not have to be as high spec.

5. Packability

Footwear, in general, is something that can be a real pain to pack. Trust us… We have had all sorts of issues with how many pairs we should be taking on a long term trip, to simply what should be packed and what should be tied to the outside of the bag.

It can be confusing and very annoying. For most travelers, one pair of shoes and one pair of sandals is the norm.

However, when it comes to a travel sandal, we would suggest that you get something that can be easily packed. Especially if you happen to be taking along more than one pair of footwear (which we DO advise), such as a walking trainer alongside your travel sandals.

Some sandals are more packable than others.

There are options on our list of the best travel sandals out there that can be packed pretty flat, whilst some of them have been specifically designed to be ultra lightweight and even being able to be rolled up and put into a pocket.

Something to consider when it comes to the packability of your potentially new travel sandals is how much they weight. The more lightweight, obviously, is better, but this might lack comfort with less support going on.

Footwear can also get pretty dirty, and you will want to make sure that your new travel sandals aren’t dirtying up the inside of your bag. You will want to strap them to the side of your daypack, or put them in a shoe compartment, and in these instances it is best to have something that can be easily compacted.

6. Care and Cleaning

Shoes are often the first thing people notice when they meet you for the first time. They are often a representation of the person who is wearing them.

So it goes without saying that a pair of grubby old shoes can really make a difference not just to how you look, but how you feel in a certain situation.

If you are wearing a pair of travel sandals for months on end – on dusty roads, in street side bars and local trains – then take it from us: they really do get dirty. Not only do they get dirty, but they can get pretty ripe as well.

Some of the shoes on our list even come with odor control, which is usually only an element of the more closed-in style of travel sandal; however, if foot odor is a problem for you, then you may want to consider sandals that include this neat feature.

Checking out the cleaning instructions for a pair of travel sandals can really make a difference in how long they will last for you. Knowing that you can throw some of the travel sandals into a washing machine, and they’ll come out sparklingly clean, is a good thing.

Other travel sandals, however, require you to impart some elbow grease and really scrub them by hand to make sure you’re not just perpetually treading dirt and dust wherever your roam.

7. Eco Credentials

In this world of fast fashion and globalization, it is getting more and more apparent that we need to really think about the eco credentials of our purchases. It is no longer about buying the cheapest sandal going, or selecting something from a notorious online store because it “looks cool” – these types of choices are, the world has discovered, quite damaging.

It’s likely that, if you are a global traveller, you have first hand seen the effects that the over-purchasing of fashion goods (including footwear) have had while on your travels. From factories in Bangladesh and Myanmar employing people in awful conditions, to the pollution of rivers and waterways with plastic and other unrecyclables, it can look bleak.

However, today, more and more companies are working towards providing eco-friendly products for a more environmentally sustainable outcome.

It’s up to us as consumers to provide the demand for such products. And if this seems like it is something you want to consider in the decision making process for choosing your new travel sandal, then you may want to consider our top pick for the best eco travel sandal out there right now: Men’s Newport Sandal by KEEN Footwear .

There are others, of course, but this is our favourite: it uses recycled PET plastic bottles, which are a real problem!

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are the most comfortable travel sandals?

Thanks to the soft material, the Sanuk Yoga Sling 2 Sandals is a super comfortable travel sandal. They’re made from old yoga mats so you even have the recycled bonus point on your side.

What are the best sandals for your feet?

Birkenstock sandals are known for their ergonomic fit that might not be the most stylish (we think they’re pretty cool) but support your feet in the best way possible.

Which sandals should people with wide feet buy?

The Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals are a great option for people that prefer a wider fit. The shoe isn’t advetised as being wide, but all reviews rate it wider than normal.

Should I get travel sandals?

If you’re hiking in dry, warm climates, having a pair of sandals that will let your toes breathe is a great addition to your gear list. There is no reason why you shouldn’t get travel sandals.

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There has never been a better time to choose a new travel sandal. All sorts of different, innovative materials and design details make the sandal market one that’s pretty solid at the moment – and definitely one that is brimming with potential.

There are so many amazing choices out there, from the eco-friendly to the ultra-durable and super comfortable, that it was pretty tricky to choose all of our favorites!

Whether you need a travel sandal for hiking that will feel like a comfy and sturdy extension of your own foot, or if you are looking for something that is more tailored to a vacation rather than an adventure in the wilderness, you’re bound to find something on our list that will suit you.

If you are having trouble deciding, we would recommend going for an old classic, the Teva Original Universal Urban Sandals . These are simple, well made, durable and – we think, anyway – pretty cool!

For something more suited to adventure, however, something like the Teva Terra Fi 5 Sandals (another Teva – we know!) would work really well.

Whatever you end up choosing, make sure you choose wisely – because a pair of travel sandals definitely ends up becoming the travelers’ best friend!

Already own a pair on our list? Or do you know of some travel sandals we’ve slept on? Let us know in the comments below!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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30 Pairs of Travel Sandals That Could Easily Go From the Airport to the Beach

A good pair of travel sandals are truly the unsung hero of every fashionable person's wardrobe when they jet off on vacation. Sure, having a trusty pair of sneakers in your suitcase is always nice when you're heading out of town for the summer, but a pair of good travel sandals ? They're essential.  

If you're not sure what travel sandals are exactly, here's a quick refresher on the style. They're often  flat sandals  that don't come with a ton of fuss. They can look good worn with socks on the plane or on their own for days spent by the beach. The key is to find some sandals that are easy to slip in and out of and that can be dressed up or worn casually. The more versatile they are, the better.  

Keep on scrolling to check out a bunch of my favorite sandals , from sporty versions to dad-approved picks with chunky soles.  

You can't go wrong with a pair of Birkenstocks. 

The white-and-black colorway makes such a statement. 

I love this all-black colorway. 

The shiny print adds something special to this pair. 

Chic pastel color.

I love the sparkly detailing on this pair. 

So classic.

Who doesn't love a pop of color? 

If you're looking for a good pair of platform sandals, this is it. 

Thick straps mean that these are extra comfortable. 

Play with color this summer. 

Love! 

Knotted sandals are everywhere. 

The puffy fabric looks so soft. 

These are a fashionable version of those chunky dad sandals. 

Your feet will thank you. 

Style these sandals with socks. 

You're going to live in these. 

Of course, Nike makes great sporty sandals. 

Colorful and comfy. 

Sporty Spice energy. 

Sweet and simple. 

Dad sandals are such a vibe. 

The pearl details make this pair feel so pretty. 

The '90s called—they want their slides back. 

Cute! 

Chunky sandals are the best for traveling. 

These flip-flops are actually pretty cool. 

Braided sandals are gorgeous. 

Next,  I Refuse to Wear Sandals With Heels—Here Are My Favorite Flat Ones to Buy

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15 of the Best Sandals for Traveling, No Matter the Destination

Whenever I travel, I like to get out and do a lot . Yes, a day or two at the beach or pool is nice, but I’m a sightseer. Museums, city walking tours, bar and restaurant crawls—you name it, I’m probably doing it. That's why I’m always on the lookout not only for the best sandals for travel (that are fashionable and comfortable), but the best sandals for walking long distances, too. I know firsthand that from amusement parks to the Amalfi Coast, it’s important to consider which shoes will accompany you on your journeys. Below, hear what podiatrists say makes a great travel sandal—then shop some of the best options to take on your next adventure.

• 01 Why travel-friendly sandals
• 02 Things to consider in a travel sandal
• 03 The best sandals for travel
• 04 How to choose a comfortable pair of travel sandals
• Ernest Isaacson, DPM , board-certified podiatrist at Paragon Podiatry
• Hillary Brenner, DPM , Hillary Brenner is a podiatric surgeon practicing in New York City.

The best sandals for travel, at a glance:

• Best overall sandal: Teva, Midform Universal , $65
• Best wedge sandal: Ecco, Flowt Wedge Cork , $150
• Best flip-flop: Reef, Cushion Breeze , $28
• Best with arch support: Dansko, Krystal , $80
• Best slide sandal: Vionic, Mayla , $47
• Best casual sandal: Birkenstock, Kyoto , $150
• Best sandals for exploring: Chaco, Z/1 Classic , $99
• Best lightweight sandal: Oofos, Oolala Luxe , $70
• Best supportive sandal: Bobs from Skechers, Pop Ups 3.0 , $55
• Best stylish sandal: Aerosoles, Greta , $99
• Best affordable sandal: Cushionaire, Feather , $25
• Best sustainable sandal: Sanuk, Cosmic Sutra Sling LX, $85
• Best ventilation: Crocs, Classic Sandal V2 , $35
• Best quick-drying:   Forsake, Rogue, $85
• Best platform heel sandal:  Aerosoles, Camera Platform Sandal , $135

Why buy travel-friendly sandals?

There’s nothing worse than spending a long day sightseeing and coming back to the hotel to discover aching arches, pinched toes, and unsightly blisters . While we may look to sneakers first as a source of comfort, it’s summertime—and who wants to stuff their feet into sneakers on a hot and humid day, anyway? Speaking as someone who lives for a strappy sandal or a flip-flop year round (okay, living in Los Angeles may have something to do with that, but still), comfortable sandals are the way to go when the temperatures reach 80 and up. Of course, that doesn't mean that any old pair of Old Navy five-dollar flip flops will do (no shade, Old Navy!). Read on to learn what exactly you should look for in a travel-friendly sandal.

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Things to consider before buying sandals for summer travel

Whether you’re looking for the best walking sandals, supportive sandals for women, or comfortable sandals , there are a host of factors to keep in mind when planning your summer travels. Maybe you’re hiking. Maybe you’re laying out on a tropical beach. Here’s what to think about when packing your sandals, wherever your summer plans may take you.

Size matters

When it comes to choosing the best sandals for travel, sizing is everything. “Make sure the width and length of the sandals fit your feet,” says Dr. Hillary Brenner, DPM . “Choose a sandal that is the correct size—go shoe shopping midday [or] towards the end of the day, that’s when your feet are true to size.” Also, keep in mind whether you need narrow or wide sizes , as not all brands offer those variations with sandals.

Comfort is key

We’ve all bought that pair of shoes that didn’t necessarily feel the best right away, but we figured they’d loosen up. But that’s not the case, according to Paragon Podiatry’s Dr. Ernest Isaacson, DPM.  “Summer sandals, like all shoes, should be selected with an emphasis on comfort,” he says. “If it doesn’t feel good in the store or the first time it’s worn, it’s probably not going to improve over time.”

Arch support

Considering your arches is important, especially when you’re walking far distances or standing for long periods of time. “Sandals should have an arched contour, helping support your arch,” says Dr. Brenner. Flats are typically preferable to heels, and “should ideally have good arch support,” Dr. Isaacson says.

When choosing the right pair of sandals for summer travel, look for pairs that offer stability throughout a variety of activities. “Look for adjustable straps, preferably around the ankle,” recommends Dr. Brenner.

Now that you’ve thought through all the reasons to choose comfortable sandals, here are our 15 favorites to take you around the globe in comfort and style.

Shop 15 of the best sandals for travel

Available sizes: 5-13 (whole sizes only)

Simply put? I’m obsessed with this style from Teva . I’ve been wearing them on and off since high school (which was [redacted] years ago), and they haven’t steered me wrong yet. Whether I’m spending a long day at Disneyland or trekking around a new city, this is the sandal that gets me through the day with tons of comfort by my side (or on my feet, as it were). With double adjustable Velcro straps, a treaded rubber outsole, and a cushioned EVA footbed, it’s hard to go wrong. The webbing is also crafted from quick-dry fabric, which comes in handy in freak rainstorms or even if you want to wear them into the water.

I’ve found that the Midform style offers more support and comfort than the Original Universal style, which is lower to the ground and causes the straps to dig into the skin more easily. They’re also extremely durable and long-lasting—they’re basically non-destructible, even after years of walking thousands of steps daily. With an almost staggering array of colors and prints (at last count, Amazon offered 54 different ones), it’s near impossible not to find at least one you want to wear.

• Supportive and lightweight    
• Many colors to choose from
• Relatively affordable
• Available in a wide variety of sizes
• Fits true to size
• Colors aren’t always restocked  
• No half sizes or other width options
• More rugged look might not appeal to everyone

Available sizes: 5-10.5

Even when we’re aiming for comfort, we still have days when we want to dress up, too. These wedge sandals from Ecco easily toe the line (pun intended) between comfort and style. The strap across the ankle is adjustable, and the upper is made from brushed nubuck leather. The footbed is crafted from Ecco’s signature CORKSPHERE™, which adheres to the shape of your foot, and the sole features their FLUIDFORM™ Direct Comfort Technology for added support and comfort.

I’m partial to the Pure White Gold/Powder hue, which features a pebbled gold upper that looks ultra-chic while offering up tons of comfort. Plus, they’re washable! I love that the sole is rubber, which means they’re easier to wipe off after a long day of walking outside.

• Adjustable ankle straps  
• Some colors include a size 5
• Easy to walk in
• Sizing is a whole and a half together, so figuring out what fits best can be tricky
• May take some time to break them in

Available sizes: 5-12 (whole sizes only)

I’m a Cali girl at heart, so I always love a good pair of flip-flops. This style by Reef features a pillowy, cushioned footbed and treaded rubber outsole that encourage me to walk right out of my hotel room and not come back ’til sundown. Our editorial commerce director recently took these with her on a trip to Mexico where there was a lot of beach walking involved, and she was surprised by how soft and supportive these felt—and she didn’t need to break them in at all.

While some flip-flops can feel uncomfortable between the toes right out of the box, that’s definitely not the case with this pair. Since I’m always looking for ways to become more sustainable in my clothing and footwear choices, I also love that the lining and toe post are made from 100 percent recycled PET derived from post consumer plastic bottles. All four colors are versatile, but the white is especially sleek. This is a great style for more casual days, especially at the beach and pool.

• No break-in required  
• Pretty affordable
• Not available in half sizes or other widths  
• Some folks say they run small (we didn’t experience this, though)

Available sizes: 5-12

I first heard about Dansko when I worked for a scrubs company and interviewed nurses about the shoes they preferred for long shifts. Over and over, they mentioned Dansko. So it stands to reason that I immediately checked them out for myself! While I don’t love the clogs (sorry, Dansko!), this modified flip-flop style appeals to my aforementioned love of flip-flops while also being undeniably easy to wear day in and day out.

I don’t typically have issues with my arches—but for people who do, this style is designed with the brand’s Natural Arch technology to offer extra comfort and support. I also love the interesting take on a classic flip-flop design, with a toe loop and wider vamp strap for added security. Plus, they’re designed with over 50 percent bio-based EVA—so they’re durable while also being good for the planet. Whether you want a more neutral hue like grey or black, or opt for a colorful color like the baby blue or lavender, this is one sandal that offers up must-have comfort.

• Made from durable rubber  
• No break-in needed
• Toe loop might not work for everyone
• Combined whole and half sizes can make sizing difficult

Available sizes: 5-11 (some half sizes available)

It seems I’ve been searching my whole life for the perfect pair of comfortable yet stylish slides—and I think I’ve found it with this Vionic style. The puffy faux nappa leather is pillowy soft, while they’re also biomechanically designed to hug your arches and support natural body alignment. This style also received the APMA Seal of Acceptance , which is granted to products that promote good foot health. Dr. Brenner likes Vionic, too, and says they focus on arch support, shock absorption and minimizing blisters. “Most importantly, they take biomechanics into consideration when designing,” she says.

The 1.5-inch platform also lends added comfort and support while walking longer distances. They feel more secure than other slides I’ve tried, which just, well, slide right off my feet as soon as I take a step. I will caution that the midsole is raised a bit, which gives the slides the feeling of a little ball you’re rocking back and forth on as you take steps forward. This can feel a bit off-putting at first.

• Whole (and some half) sizes available
• Super cushiony feel
• Curved midsole can feel strange  
• Run a bit large
• No other width options

Available sizes: 4-12.5

It’s taken me an almost embarrassingly long time to hop on board the Birkenstock train. My friend Cari has been telling me how comfortable they are for years, but I’d tried a couple pairs without success. Then the Kyoto walked into my life—and the rest was history. While the brand’s signature two-strap Arizona style has just never fit me correctly, this style fits so well that I never want to take them off. I love the double Velcro strap design, with one slender strap encompassed within the wider outer strap.

Birkenstock’s iconic footbed encourages proper foot wellbeing and health and the longitudinal arch support runs along both sides of the footbed, while the deep heel cup cradles the heel and keeps natural cushioning right under the heel bone. There’s even a raised toe bar, which helps encourage the natural gripping motion of your feet and stimulate circulation. (I never knew I actually wanted my shoes to give me a workout until I tried these.) The result? Stable, comfortable, supportive sandals that easily stand up to long days of walking, walking, and more walking.

The Kyoto comes in a ton of different colors , with multiple different fabrications available, so finding at least one to covet is pretty easy. I love the Nubuck/Suede in Candy Pink for a subtle pop of color.

Colors: 20+

• No break-in needed  
• Designed for comfort
• Long-lasting materials
• Might run a bit large  
• No other widths available
• Suede might be too warm for some

Sizes available: 5-12 (some wide sizes available)

If your travels take you off the beaten path, these sandals from Chaco will be ready for anything. With a grippy outsole and a supportive rubber footbed, they’re a great adventure shoe. The waterproof design means you can stomp through rivers, while the rugged (yet cute!) adjustable strap keeps a secure fit. Plus, they’re approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

W+G contributing writer Jamey Powell loves these sandals: “I brought them to Costa Rica with me last month and they were perfect for traversing rocks, walking along the beach, and just kicking about.” She does add that the polyester strap may require some breaking in.

• Waterproof design
• Supportive footbed, approved by the APMA
• Adjustable strap helps you customize your fit
• May require some breaking in
• Colors are limited for wide sizes

Available sizes: 5-11 (whole sizes only)

I’ve already told you how much I love flip-flops, so it should come as no surprise that I’m including another pair on the list. This style by Oofos is equal parts comfortable and lightweight, the latter of which is always nice when trying to figure out what to cram in an already overstuffed suitcase. They’re made with the brand’s trademark OOfoam™ technology to absorb a high percentage of impact.

The footbed also helps reduce stress on knees, ankles, and other joints—although it’s also so soft and cushy that it can take a bit of getting used to, though I’m of the opinion that it feels like you’re walking on clouds. I also love the wider thong straps.

• Many color options
• Durable, water-resistant materials
• Very cushioned
• Straps take a while to get used to  
• No half sizes

Available sizes: 6-10 (whole sizes only)

True story: As soon as I slipped these sandals on my feet, I texted my mom a photo and said, “I’m in love with these Skechers sandals.” They’re cushy, they’re comfortable, they’re a bold mint green, and they’re a dupe for Tevas. Seriously, what’s not to love? Skechers is definitely having a style renaissance as of late, and these sandals from their Bobs line are an example of that. The woven strap upper features an adjustable ankle strap and the brand’s signature Plush Foam® footbed for added support. The treaded outsole makes it easy to, ahem, tread long distances.

• More affordable option to Teva sandals    
• Machine-washable
• No break-in period
• Skechers donates a portion of the proceeds to help an animal in need
• Footbed is a bit bulky  
• Limited colors and size options

Available sizes: 5-12 (half sizes available)

For days and nights when you want to be comfortable yet stylish, this option from Aerosoles is a good stand-by. I love the more elevated take on a classic flip-flop, and the gleaming gold interlocking buckle detail adds a polished touch. Not to mention the wide thong strap that effortlessly shows off your summer pedicure.

These sandals are also designed with a supportive ortholite insole, diamond flex outsole, and flat heel that lend themselves easily to long days and nights of walking. I will caution that the upper feels a bit stiff right out of the box, so they might take a bit of breaking in before popping them into your suitcase.

• Both full and half sizes available  
• Super stylish
• Only available in one width  
• Can take some time to break in
• A bit pricy

With a staggering 30 different colors to choose from and a desirable price tag, these Cushionaire slides are a summer comfort must. The spongy molded footbed confirms effortlessly to your foot, and the waterproof material makes them ideal for the beach. Plus, the non-slip bottom keeps you from—you guessed it—slipping when you walk. I was pleasantly surprised when I first slipped these out of the box and onto my feet; the subtle 1.75-inch platform heel lends a bit of height and a lot of support. Plus, these slides have over 20,000 five-star ratings on Amazon , so I’m definitely in good company.

• Many color and size options  
• Very affordable

Available sizes: 5-11

I’ve long been a fan of Sanuk—the brand’s signature yoga mat footbeds make every pair of shoes they offer supremely comfortable. I already owned three pairs of the Yoga Sling 2 , so it stood to reason that I’d need to try the Cosmic Sutra Sling LX, too. Walking in these is somehow pillowy and supportive all at once. The ankle strap and double top straps make them secure yet comfortable, and the previously mentioned Yoga Mat footbed offers resiliency and support. Better yet, the sandals are designed with an impressive variety of sustainable materials.

I’m partial to the tan color, especially for summer, though they also come in basic black.

• Comfortable right out of the box  
• Versatile style
• Sustainable
• No half sizes or other width options  
• Takes a bit of breaking in

Available sizes: 4-15 (whole sizes only)

Say what you want about Crocs, but they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. They give most shoes a run for their money when it comes to comfort, because the treaded rubber footbed molds to your feet and they’re made for miles and miles of walking. Plus, the perforated foam upper helps keep your feet well-ventilated—ideal for sticky summer travel days.

I held off on buying Crocs for years, no matter how many friends of mine told me I was making a mistake. But as soon as I finally bought my first pair, I knew just what I’d been missing. Crocs may not be the most attractive shoes out there, but when it comes to comfort, they’re pretty much unparalleled!

• Well-ventilated
• No half sizes available
• No heel strap for security

Available sizes: 6-15 (unisex sizing, whole sizes only)

If you’re planning any outdoor adventures that involved getting wet this summer, pack Forsake’s water-friendly Rogue sandals in your bag. These durable, open-toe sandals are made for wading through rivers, paddling lakes, and staying protected from sea critters.

Nearly every feature in these supportive sandals are made with sustainable materials, including a shock-absorbing midsole made from recycled EVA foam and algae (yes, really). The outsole provides serious traction for navigating slippery rocks or slick docks, while the recycled polyester straps keep your feet in place. They dry so quickly. All the materials are water-resistant, especially the straps which don’t stay soggy long after they get wet. The best part? They float!

• Sustainable materials
• Water-resistant and quick-drying
• Super durable
• The top straps slip a bit after long hours of wear

Sizes available: 5.5-12 (in medium and wide)

Another pick from W+G contributing writer Jamey Powell, these platform sandals from Aerosoles give the illusion of a dressier shoe with all of the comfort of a flat sandal. “I’m not typically a heels girl, but I’ll talk about these cushioned platforms to anyone who will listen,” she says. “I bought them last year and wore them to several weddings and to nicer dinners on vacation—they’ve never once caused me pain! They’ve also held up really well, so despite the many dance floors and cobblestones they’ve seen, I’ll be pulling them out again as the weather warms.”

The Camera style is available in a wide range of colors, from basic black, to denim, to metallic silver. You’ll find even more seasonal colors crop up throughout the year on the Aerosoles website .

How to choose a comfortable pair of summer sandals

Whether you opt for flat sandals , wedges, espadrilles, or heels, make sure they’re comfortable and supportive.

“A 1-2-inch heel feels good as it provides stability for the ankle and structures toward the heel,” says Dr. Isaacson. “It relieves pressure on the arch and heel without exerting pressure on the ball of the foot.”

Flat sandals

For flat sandals, Dr. Isaacson recommends a thick flip-flop or sandal with a solid cork and leather insole.

“I personally like wedges made of raffia, which aids in shock absorption,” says Dr. Brenner. "Plus, they have a wide, chunky heel.”

Frequently asked questions about travel-friendly sandals

What sandals do podiatrists recommend.

There are a lot of brands that podiatrists and the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommend, so you'll find no shortage of podiatrist-approved options. In this article, you'll find recommended pairs from Vionic , Chaco , and Birkenstock .

Should you buy sandals a size bigger or smaller?

The sizing for a pair of sandals will vary from brand to brand, so there's not a hard-and-fast rule about sizing up or down. It can be helpful to read reviews to hear whether other customers found them true to size. And, as Dr. Brenner mentioned above, it's best to try them on near the end of the day when your feet are the most swollen to get a sense of how they'll fit after wearing them for long periods of time.

What brand of sandals have the best arch support?

Some of the best brands that make sandals with good arch support are Vionic, Birkinstock, Chaco, Aerosoles, and Dansko. Just make sure they tick other important boxes, like cushion and support. And, of course, make sure they fit your personal 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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The 24 Best Travel Shoes: Comfortable + Stylish! (2023)

Best Travel Shoes

Whenever I travel, I want to have the freedom to explore as much as possible on foot, but I also don’t want to look like a backpacker!

I’m definitely the kind of traveler who over-stuffs the itinerary to see as much as possible and have gotten blood blisters and tired heels from wearing stylish shoes with little support.

Over time, I’ve gradually narrowed my search for walking shoes for travel that come in breathable fabric, have arch support and are stylish enough for photos! 

If you’ve ever wanted to be able to go from sightseeing to a nice dinner without worrying whether your shoes are “dinner room” appropriate, this travel packing list is for you!

Below is a summary of the best women’s shoes that blend comfort and style after years of traveling – without looking orthopedic.

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Best Travel Shoes for Women

I generally pack 3 types of shoes when I travel:

• A pair of sneakers (for working out or all-day walking tours)
• A stylish but comfortable pair of flats or moccasins  (for dinner and more casual days)
• An easy slip on pair of flip flops / sandals (for the beach or shower)

I am admittedly an over packer so… sometimes I pack multiple pairs of shoes from the 3 categories. The upside is I’ve tried and tested many different shoe brands over the years! I’ve organized my list of the best walking shoe options for travel according to the 3 categories above.

Quickly jump to

Best Travel Sneakers

• Best Stylish Walking Shoes
• Best Travel Flats

Best Travel Sandals

Sneakers are always a must have.

For heavy walking days, uneven cobblestone streets or airport days, I like having a thick soled, extra comfortable and closed toe shoe. But, I don’t necessarily want to look like I’m going to the gym!

Best Sneakers for Travel

Click each shoe name to jump to the in-depth review or the image to shop directly.

Here are 6 stylish sneakers that are perfect for travel.

Cole Haan Tennis Sneaker

I love how retro these look! They come in neutral classic colors and also a huge range of pastel colors if you want something girlier.

The Cole Haan sneakers are incredibly lightweight and flexible. The foot bed has tons of cushion and support which is perfect for travel! I hate shoes that slip and slide but the heel and forefoot of these have rubber pods for great traction.

If you prefer, there’s also a  hybrid sneaker version .

Cole Haan Sneakers

Available on Amazon , Cole Haan ,  Nordstrom and Zappos

Check the latest reviews and see all color options here .

The Tread is the perfect unisex sneaker.

Designed for any destination, these are extremely comfortable, 100% full grain leather sneakers . Their low profile makes them versatile enough to wear with any outfit and they come in a rainbow of colors to suit any preference.

And even more appealing, these are made with sustainability in mind. Everlane produces them with less waste, less energy and less virgin plastic and offsets the carbon emissions it couldn’t eliminate.

Everlane Tread Sneakers

Available on  Everlane

Adidas Sneakers

If you want a chic, modern update to the traditional sneaker the Adidas Tubular is perfect. The thick soles provide excellent support for a full day of walking.

The Tubular line is so popular that Adidas makes these in a whole range of colors and styles. If you like to work out on vacation, these are perfect as they can double to wear to the gym! 

I also have the Adidas Superstars , a  classic white shoe that looks a bit more traditional, as well as the Adidas Superstar Slip On , which I wore throughout my Europe cruise . These are a slimmer profile without shoe laces, so they’re sleeker and easy to put on!

Adidas makes tons of comfortable shoes, no matter what look you’re going for.

Sold on Amazon , Nordstrom and Asos

Ecco Sneakers

Want the perfect everyday sneaker?

Ecco’s Soft 7 sneaker checks all the options. This family run Danish brand knows how to combine classic style, affordability and innovative technology.

With its monochrome cap toe, low profile and smooth leather upper, the Ecco sneaker is made from high quality, durable materials. The interior is removable and contains Ecco’s signature comfort insole for long lasting support.

Best of all, this travel sneaker comes in every color under the sun! All the options are beautiful muted shades that won’t clash with your clothes.

Sold on Amazon ,  Nordstrom  & Zappos

Clarks Sneakers

Clarks is a shoe brand that has long been synonymous with comfort.

I used to think of them as a ‘mom’ brand, but lately they’ve come out with some sleek, stylish options like the Tri Spark sneaker !

With its sporty vibe, ultra light construction and minimalist silhouette, this sleek sneaker is perfect for travel. Inside, you’ll find a foot shaped fit and responsive cushioning while rubber pods on the sole deliver grip and support.

Clarks makes this classic sneaker in a variety of shades. If you like a bit of height, this is the perfect travel shoe as it has a built in cushioned heel to make you look taller, without the pain of a stiletto!

Available on Clarks , Amazon , Nordstrom & Zappos

The Palestra is the perfect sophisticated lace up sneaker.

With clean lines, a minimalist profile and a host of color options (plus leather and suede varieties) this is the kind of travel sneaker that works with even the dressiest outfit. 

M. Gemi has long been one of our favorite brands. Solid Italian craftsmanship , genuine leather and hand stitched soles result in an extra comfortable sneaker that can handle all day walking and standing… and still look classy enough for dinner in Europe!

M Gemi Sneakers

Available on  M.Gemi

Stylish Walking Shoes

Sometimes you want the comfort of a sneaker, but you don’t want a clunky athletic shoe. Gym sneakers can take up lots of room and who wants to constantly tie laces?

Enter a more streamlined, fashion sneaker. With their low profile, slip on style, these go with everything – from casual day outfits (jeans and a t-shirt) to a flowy dress for a nice dinner.

Best Slip On Shoes

Click each shoe name to jump to the in-depth review. 

Here are 6 of our favorite comfortable slip-on travel shoes.

UGG Sammy Sneaker

If I could live in UGG shoes permanently, I would.

As it is, I already wear the moccasin for my commute to work and even inside the office. My coworkers made fun of me for an entire year but come December, they admitted they ordered them for Christmas – ha!

For spring and summer travel, I’m a huge fan of these comfy slip on sneakers . The uppers are made from a breathable knit fabric that let your feet breathe, and they come in a host of fun colors. Simple, chic and versatile enough to wear with jeans or skirts! They also come in a  leather  option.

If you have wide feet, you might prefer the UGG knit sneakers , which are a little more giving. UGG has really branched out from their core boot line into comfy  flats and sandals and I’m all for their shoes, with are always lined with orthopedic-friendly cushioned soles!

Sold at  Amazon , Nordstrom ,  Bloomingdales and Zappos  

Dr Scholl’s Slip On

I swear by Dr. Scholl inserts  so when I found out they have a shoe line , I was over the moon!

In particular, I like the Scout slip on which fully covers your foot in a sleek neutral style. 

The uppers are made of 100% leather and the anatomical foot bed is cushioned with Memory Fit foam to cushion every step.

Comfortable, lightweight and perfect for anyone who needs to stand all day. I really like the range of colors and textures too.

Dr. Scholl's Slip On Shoes

Sold on Amazon ,   Nordstrom   & Zappos

Skechers Breathe Easy Sneaker

The first time my mom called me to let me know she bought a pair of Skechers sneaker flats for our trip to Spain, I thought she was indulging in typical ‘mom fashion’.

Fast forward to our trip to Spain and my sneakers were pinching and too tight.. guess what, I ended up ‘borrowing’ her Skechers for the rest of the trip!

I recommend the flat sneaker Breathe Easy shoe for light walking and the City Scene shoe for full-on sneakers. They’re a stylish, affordable alternative to the Adidas Ultra Boosts and quite light weight!

Skechers just came out with this new sneaker that’s looks similar to the Adidas ultra boost!

Skechers Sneakers

Sold on Amazon   & Zappos

Toms Canvas Slip-On

I wore the classic Toms canvas slip ons for my 2 week trip to Japan and they held up really well.

It took about a day to break them in first but after, the soft fabric stretches to your feet. The foot bed has surprisingly more support than you’d expect with a cushy interior.

The only downside is that Toms are made of cloth and they can start to smell after extended use, so they may not last longer than a year or two if you wear them often. But they’re cheap and easy to replace!

For a more long lasting option, I love this lightweight sneaker that’s new for Spring – it’s slimming with pretty suede uppers and a cushioned insole for arch support.

Toms also makes comfortable sandals – same comfort but these will let your feet breathe a bit more.

Toms Sandals

Sold on Amazon , Bloomingdales , Nordstrom   & Zappos

For a high quality slip on sneaker, the Olukai Pehuea is my top choice. 

A premium brand based in Hawaii, Olukai makes shoes that focus on performance while leaving the smallest possible footprint on the planet. All of their shoes have anatomically contoured footbeds that make them incredibly comfortable and supportive, for long term wear.

I have both the covered  Pehuea slip on and the  Upena sandals, both of which are so comfortable. I wrote an in-depth shoe review here , but the main takeaway is that these are incredibly comfortable, straight out of the box. The Pehuea insoles can also be removed and machine washed, to keep them clean!

The rubber sole has grips too, so you won’t slip and slide while walking.

Olukai Slip On Shoes

Sold on Amazon , Zappos & Nordstrom

Where travel meets technology. 

What? With  Keds? 

While there might not be a ton that meets the eye – although who doesn’t love a classic black leather slip-on sneaker with a bright white trim –  the Keds Double Decker Leather Slip-on Sneaker is a jetsetter’s dream thanks to its Ortholite footbed.

Ortholite confers tons of advantages to the weary wanderer, including an eco-friendly construction (partially made from recycled materials), a foam compression rate of less than 5%, and a nearly 100% breathability rate. 

Time to say au revoir to stinky and sore feet – for good! 

Keds Double Decker Leather Slip-on Sneaker

Sold on Amazon

Best Travel Flats 

Need comfortable shoes for Europe that look a little bit more put together?

Pick up a sturdy driving moc or loafer that will mold to your feet and be comfortable all day long. Plus, with these stylish flat and loafer options, you’ll blend right in with the locals!

The Most Comfortable Flats

Click each shoe name to jump to the in-depth review.

We’re obsessed with comfortable flats – here are 5 of the best travel flats that are chic yet don’t chafe.

Everlane Day Glove Flat

Looking for a comfortable ballet flat?

Check out Everlane’s Day Glove which is made from butter soft leather. They’re stylish, sleek and after a bit of breaking in, mold perfectly to your feet and are a dream to walk in.

Modern and sleek, the best part about these flats is that there’s absolutely no toe cleavage – a pet peeve of mine!

I never thought I could wear a flat shoe and call them comfortable, but Everlane changed my mind. With a whopping 16 colors , you’re bound to find the perfect shade!

In general, I go to Everlane for high quality basics . Although the prices can be higher than fast fashion brands, the material are worth it (these are Italian leather) and everything has lasted season after season. I wrote an in depth review of my favorite Everlane outfits here .

Everlane Flats

Sold on Everlane

M.Gemi Felize Moccasin

I’m a huge fan of M. Gemi for their luxurious, Italian made shoes and accessible price points. They have a variety of moccasin shoe options each season – all of which are made from buttery soft leather and mold perfectly to your feet.

The best part is the huge range of colors they offer – everything from neutrals to pastels to fun bright colors for summer.

The signature Felize driving moccasins are high quality, sewn by hand in Tuscany and offered in suede uppers. If you want a more low-maintenance leather, check out the Pastoso shoe which comes in soft leather.

M. Gemi offers both free shipping + free returns.

M. Gemi Loafers

Sold on M. Gemi

See more of my favorite M.Gemi styles  here .

Jack Rogers Taylor Loafer

For a softer, slightly cheaper option I would recommend Jack Rogers Loafers . I picked up a pair of these last fall and they’re  so  comfortable.

Jack Rogers sizing can vary from shoe to shoe – I find that the loafers run slightly narrow but fit like a glove in my usual size.

I have them in pink leather , although they come in a wide range of colors and also in a suede version on Zappos .

In comparison to the M.Gemi, the Jack Rogers are softer while the M.Gemi are more durable. The Jack Rogers are great for casual wear and also for travel, but if you plan to walk on cobblestone / uneven streets, you may prefer a sneaker with more cushion.

The M. Gemi moccasins are more of a driving moc – with reinforced heels and grips on the bottom. They also feel stiffer and more durable. It just depends on what type of loafer you prefer!

I have a ton of Jack Rogers shoes – they make great, fun summer sandals and wedges and I would also recommend their  suede scalloped flats if you want a prettier flat instead of a loafer. The flats are an affordable version of the classic Chloe flat and quite cushioned in the foot bed – for these I sized down half a size to a 6.5 as they run a tad large.

Jack Rogers Loafers

Sold on Amazon ,   Nordstrom , Bloomingdales & Zappos

Vionic Minna Flat

I love the classic look of these Vionic leather flats .

Vionic is a go to for comfortable walking shoes and these ballet pumps have the same classic cushioned foot bed found in all their shoes.

Available in regular, narrow and wide sizes, the Minna flat is perfect for a leisurely day of sightseeing and a nice dinner out.

There’s always some variation of them each season (love the two toned color ) and these double as a great work flat .

Vionic also has lightweight sneakers , spring sandals and these cushioned flats !

Vionic Flats

Sold on Amazon , Nordstrom & Zappos

Read reviews and see all colors here

Madewell Frances Loafer

If you love androgynous footwear, this leather loafer is for you.

Both feminine and masculine at the same time, these flats are incredibly comfortable once you have a chance to wear them in.

Madewell makes these in a high quality leather that’s not stiff – so break in time is minimal and they wear well over time.

The interior leather is really soft too! If you’re in the market for insanely comfortable and chic loafers, pick up the Frances loafer ASAP. 

You seriously can’t go wrong with these – they’re timeless!

Madewell Loafers

Available on Madewell

Read reviews and see colors here .

Lucky Brand

Lucky, indeed! 

Unlike many ballet flats , which are little more than leather fastened to a paper-thin shoe bed, the Lucky Brand Emmie Ballet Flats are built with the world traveler in mind. 

The padded footbed, 0.25″ heel, stretch topline, and memory foam insole provide the great style of travel flats without  the typical drawbacks of blisters, discomfort, or poor arch support! 

Lucky Brand Emmie Ballet Flat

Available on Amazon

In spring and summer, you’re likely looking for cute and comfortable sandals! 

Here are some of our favorite travel sandals that don’t chafe, pinch or blister your feet…and look gorgeous with skirts, dresses and every kind of outfit.

Most Comfortable Sandals

Plaka flat sandal.

Plaka makes simple, chic rope sandals that are made from hand. 

I love the design of the ropes and these work particularly well if you have wide or narrow feet, as the ropes are adjustable. They come with a cotton bag for storage and are super comfortable.

The rope is made of polyester while the soles are rubber. I think they’re both simple enough to wear everyday yet dressier than a basic flip flop so they’re versatile for travel!

I like the black rope option but there are colorful options too.

Best of all? They’re extremely affordable !

Plaka Rope Sandals

Read reviews and see all color options here .

UGG Kamile Sandal

I ordered these UGG Kamile Sandals for our trip to Europe and they were the perfect comfy sandal for weeks of walking on concrete, cobblestone and tile.

The leather straps are made from a soft, smooth leather and the foot bed is very slightly arched and quite comfortable. I didn’t have any ‘breaking in’ period and I like how easy they are to slip on (you don’t have to do up the buckle each time).

They also run a bit wide, so if you have bunions or wide feet these may be the perfect travel sandals. 

UGG also makes a sandal version here , which comes in leather, suede and metallic color options. Since I don’t do well with slide on shoes, I opted for the strap across the bank. 

I do wish the straps themselves were slightly thinner (like the Kari sandals ) and that the sole wasn’t white, but overall they’re so comfortable I can’t complain! If you like to pack light, I think these versatile travel sandals go with everything.

UGG Sandals

Available on Amazon , Nordstrom , Bloomingdales & Zappos

Read reviews and see all color options here

Blowfish Fisherman Sandal

These sandals are incredibly comfortable. The straps hit at just the right part of the feet so that if you have narrow or wide feet or even bunions, your toes won’t feel smashed at all and can sit comfortably.

I like the criss cross detail to dress up the basic sandal and you can adjust the shoe with the buckle near the heel.

The foot bed is molded for your feet as well. Perhaps the only downside is that the shoe is made of synthetic leather but they’re more affordable because of it.

Blowfish Sandals

Olukai Upena Sandal

For a sturdier strappy sandal, pick up the Olukai Upena . 

With adjustable straps and a whole host of different colors , there’s plenty of options for everyone. In particular, these sandals would hold up well to lots of walking – whether it be cobblestone streets or a moderate hike. 

I wore them while walking from midtown Manhattan to the Lower East Side in the dead heat of summer and they were incredibly comfortable ! They’re also incredibly easy to pack as they don’t take up any space and you don’t have to worry about them getting crushed.

For more pictures, including how these shoes look on, you can read my in-depth Olukai review .

Olukai Sandals

Available on Amazon , Nordstrom & Zappos

Beek Finch Sandal

For a cute, simple style, the  Finch sandal is perfect. These are hand crafted from soft, supple vegetable tanned leather and I especially like the simple silhouette .

It looks pretty on the feet and the asymmetrical strap keeps your foot firmly in place as you walk. The arch is molded for comfort too! I’m so tired of cute sandals with hard thin footbeds that feel like you’re walking right on the ground.

The only thing is some people find the fit slightly off – I recommend ordering a couple sizes especially if you’re in between sizes.

Beek Sandals

Available on Amazon , Nordstrom , Shopbop

Crocs Sandal

I know what you might be thinking. 

Crocs?  Those things?! 

Hear me out, though.

The Crocs Women’s LiteRide Sandals are the perfect travel shoes for women.  

As travel sandals, the Crocs are perfect for hot or tropical vacations. Unlike some sandals, though, the thick and sturdy heel strap – not to mention the textured, memory foam-like insole – provide for ease and comfort during day-long walks or light hikes. 

These Crocs also provide the the fashionable lift (no pun intended) from its 0.5″ platforms, and the branding is relatively understated as well! 

Crocs LiteRide Sandals

How to Pack Shoes for Travel

I always pack walking shoes for travel in my luggage in either a shoe dust bag or a plastic / canvas bag.

Shoes are worn in puddles, dirty streets and all over the place so I never want the soles to touch my clothes! I individually wrap each pair of shoes with the tops facing each other, soles out.

I recommend picking out your shoes first (before clothes and everything else) and laying them in the very bottom of your luggage.

Try to pack the shoes close to the bottom of the suitcase, near the luggage wheels. Generally I don’t mind if sneakers or flip flops get crunched in transit as I prefer my clothes to be as wrinkle free as possible.

If you have a sandwich-construction suitcase, I keep shoes on the zippered off side with my toiletries and then clothes on the other half.

You can read more about my recommendations for  best carry on luggage here .

 Shop Comfortable Travel Shoe Brands

  Read More   in my favorite Comfy Shoe series:

Most Comfortable Shoes

The Most Comfortable Flats EVER

The Most Comfortable Sandals for Summer

The Most Comfortable Boots for Winter

The Most Comfortable Heels (you can actually walk in)

Best Sneakers

The Best White Sneakers that Go with EVERYTHING

Cute Casual Sneakers to Wear Anywhere

The Best Slip On Sneakers

The Best Chelsea Boots to Wear All Year Round

The Best Lace Up Boots for Military Inspired Chic

The Best Over the Knee Boots that Make a Statement!

The Best Shearling Boots to Stay Cozy this Winter

The Best Black Combat Boots That Go with Everything

Cozy At Home Shoes

Comfy Slippers for Women

Comfy Mens Slippers

The Best Mules for Easy Slip on Style

The Best Loafers to Look Polished but Stay Comfy

Shoe Reviews

The Best Travel Shoes in Every Style - Sneakers, Slip Ons, Flats & Sandals

Everlane Flats - These 5 Pairs are Extra Comfortable

OluKai Shoes : Sneaker & Sandal Review

Where to Get Stuart Weitzman Boots on Sale

Designer Inspired

The Best Cap Toe Ballet Flats to Get the Chanel  Look, for Less

Classic Chanel Inspired Slingbacks (Two Toned)

The Best Chanel Inspired Espadrilles to Rock All Summer

The Best Manolo Blahnik Lookalikes

The Best Over the Knee Boots that Rival Stuart Weitzman Lowlands !

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What a perfect post! I’m constantly on the lookout for cute and comfy shoes! I really love the adidas ultraboost and the dr scholls slip on is such a cool find too!

Yes!! This is the post I needed. I think I might pick up a pair of Soludos. xoxo

So glad you liked it! I love Soludos :)

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This is such a great stylish list. You HAVE TO tell me how to get 40$ off on M.Gemi !! I’m about to go on a shopping spree on this website. (feel free to email me the promo code or directions. I also signed up for your posts!)

Hey Soo – so glad you liked the post. If you click the link in the post, it should redirect to the mgemi website and the code will auto apply. Or, try mgemi.com/sher :) happy shopping!

Caught up in the M.Gemi shoes :) Thanks for the review.

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Comfy travel shoes are sooooooo important!! I can still remember the pain after spending on full day walking around Rome in some super cut but truly uncomfy shoes! You got a great list of comfy travel shoes here Sher! I might have to try out some new styles for our next trip :)

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What are those suede mules you’re wearing up top?

Hi Patrice – they’re an old pair from M.Gemi. They’re not available anymore but you can see all of M.Gemi’s current flats here .

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Hi…I was just wondering what model of the Adidas Ultra Boost is the picture. Thanks!

Hi Goh – unfortunately I got those a year ago so the exact one isn’t sold anymore. It’s from the Ultra Boost line!

Nice idea for packing shoes. I a going to Dubai next week and had been thinking about how to pack my shoes. I will try to do it the same way this time as mentioned above

What is the brand of the grey sneaker featured on your cover page for this article?

Hi Martha – I’m not sure which shoe you’re referring to. Do you have a link to the image or pin?

It’s on your “best travel shoes” pin on Pinterest. The grey mesh sneakers.

Hey Martha – we have multiple pins for the same article, and often people will also pin images from the website to pinterest, so we’re not sure which shoe you’re referring to. If you know the url, send us the link and we can ID the shoe.

It’s a great article, full of good travel tips… . https://pin.it/f5sZWK1

https://pin.it/f5sZWK1 is the link. Great article!

Hi Martha – I believe that exact style is sold out, but these are from the same brand and essentially the same: https://amzn.to/2VywmW3

Like to find the tennis shoes at the beginning…where are those from?

Sure – they’re these tennis sneakers from Amazon

None of these shoes are stylish enough to wear to a wedding. Ugh.

yes…it’s a post on comfortable *travel* shoes (aka for traveling when you’ll be walking and doing a lot). not weddings!

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TRAVEL SANDALS

Searching for the best travel sandals? From comfortable walking sandals to wedge sandals to flip flops, we have dozens of articles featuring the best sandals for travel. Start reading below as we help you find the perfect style for your trip!  And don’t forget to download the free  10 step guide to choosing the best travel shoes !

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Need a wider sandal? Check out these top womens wide width sandals that make your feet feel heavenly but are also darn cute-looking!

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Explore this round up of the best shoes for Japan that covers all the shoes you need, from sneakers, boots, to sandals, and more!

Best Shoes for Disney World: Readers Share Their Top Picks

Planning a Disney vacation soon? To help make your trip foot-pain free, here are our readers’ picks on the best shoes for Disney World sightseeing.

Best Womens Narrow Shoes for Travel That Are Comfortable and Cute

If you have narrow feet and want better choices when sightseeing or walking, find out our readers’ picks for the best womens narrow shoes for travel!

Best Airplane Shoes for Long Haul Flights Recommended by Readers

When it comes to flying, comfort is pretty vital, especially with shoes. Readers recommend the best airplane shoes for long haul flights!

12 Best Beach Sandals for Women

Traveling to a hot weather destination? Take a look at the 11 beach sandals readers rave about – you can also use some of them for trips away from the sea!

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While you wouldn’t wear these for a city trip, flip flops are practical for tropical and beachside vacations. These are the most comfortable flip flops!

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Fun and stylish yet versatile and easy to style, it’s no wonder readers have been loving snakeskin sandals lately. Check them all out!

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The Best Crocs for Women: Sturdy, Versatile, and Super Packable Shoes

Women’s Crocs are popular with our readers. Find out the best styles, from sneakers to sandals to clogs to flip flops, and even boots!

12 Best Leather Flip Flops Women Pack for Summer Vacation

Take a look at these comfortable leather flip flops womens styles that readers have been loving for their sunny getaways!

Best Gladiator Sandals for Women: Chic for Summer Vacay

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Best Shoes for London That Cover Every Season in This Popular City

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What Are the Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet? 20 Top Picks!

Looking for arch support shoes for flat feet? Take a gander at these comfy yet cute TFG picks that’ll have your feet singing with happiness!

Want the best travel shoes? Take a look at our top results:  cute walking shoes ,  comfortable ballet flats , and  best sandals for travel . Struggling to decide what styles to bring for your trip? Download our free guide on  how to choose the best shoes for travel !

PRINTABLE TRAVEL CHECKLIST

The 9 Best Women’s Travel Shoes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Explore in style with these comfy kicks

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

TripSavvy / Zackary Angeline

Whether you’re packing for a business trip or your annual vacation, space and weight are usually limited. One way to make the most of your luggage allowance is to carefully choose which shoes you take. A lightweight, comfortable pair that can fulfill several different functions (from providing support on your city walking tour or hiking excursion to looking good at dinner afterward) is ideal. 

Our travel experts tested 22 of the best women’s shoes for your next adventure, rating each pair for comfort, fit, quality, and value, then choosing winners for a range of categories from “Best Sandals” to “Most Sustainable.”

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• Others We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust TripSavvy

Best Overall

Adidas cloudfoam pure 2.0 running shoes.

 Amazon

• Cushioning 4 /5
• Responsiveness 3.5 /5
• Blister Protection 4.5 /5

Ready out of the box

Hard-wearing and easy to clean

Reasonable price point

Limited color choices

If you’re looking for an everyday, running-inspired sneaker that won’t break the bank, you can’t go wrong with the Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Sneaker. Made especially for women, they feature a breathable, foot-hugging textile upper and a combined Cloudfoam midsole and outsole. We found the latter so comfortable that we likened wearing them to having our feet cradled by a cloud and reported no rubbing or irritation even though we wore them for extended periods without socks. The shoes have laces and score sustainability points by utilizing high-performance recycled materials. 

We found them impressively durable, with no noticeable wear or odor even after all three test wears. The soles got a little bit dirty, but we were able to clean them with a wipe of a damp cloth. As for the price tag, we were astonished when we discovered how affordable these sneakers are—our tester would happily have paid three times the price for the quality and comfort experienced. The shoes come in neutral colors and full and half sizes from 5 to 12. We found that they fit perfectly and were true to size. 

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Knit textile upper, Cloudfoam midsole and outsole | Sustainability: Primegreen recycled materials 

TripSavvy / Elena Garcia

Superga Classic Sneaker

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

Sturdily built

Timeless style

Huge choice of sizes and colors

Not the best for all-day wear

First launched in 1925, the Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneaker has become an emblem of Italian style inspired by ladies’ tennis shoes. Although more expensive than our overall winner, we feel that the price tag is a fair reflection of its combined quality and style. It features a cotton upper and lining, a rubber outsole, and a lace closure. Our tester found the shoes incredibly comfortable out of the box, with cushioned soles that provided good support for indoor and outdoor use. The fit was true to size, although those with wide feet may want to size up. 

However, we would recommend them for a light travel day rather than one with extensive walking since we did experience some discomfort after spending more than two-thirds of the day on our feet. Nevertheless, we were impressed by the quality construction with thick soles and sturdy stitching. We also appreciated that the shoes didn’t become saturated when caught in the rain as other fabric shoes may do. Choose one of many gorgeous pastel colors, from classic white to violet or light blue. 

Sizes: 5 to 15.5 | Materials: Cotton upper, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Not listed

TripSavvy / Ivy Ford

Best Walking

New balance women's 574 core sneaker.

New Balance

• Comfort 4 /5
• Quality 5 /5

Wear well for extended periods

Sturdy, reliable construction

Variety of sizes

Sizing can be tricky

The New Balance 574 Core Sneaker wins our vote as an easy, neutral choice that’s well-made and superbly comfortable. Designed as a hybrid road and trail shoe, it’s suitable for wherever your walking takes you, even on a trip to Disney. We found the sneakers so lightweight it was easy to forget we were wearing them. This lightness comes from their recycled polyester mesh upper with responsibly sourced leather accents and EVA foam cushioning around the midsole and heel. A rubber outsole provides solid arch support. 

We especially liked that the laces stayed tied throughout our test wear periods and that the shoes went well with most casual outfits. In fact, we were surprised to find this level of comfort and style for under $100 (although you’d likely want a flashier sneaker for anything more formal). We found the sneakers roomier than expected, although the New Balance website recommends sizing up. But, with extended-width sizes available, you should be able to find your perfect fit. Colors range from black to burgundy or navy, all with white accents.

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Materials: Mesh upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Recycled polyester, rubber, and bio-based foam

TripSavvy / Mariah Tyler

On Running Women's Cloudrift Shoe

• Comfort 4.3 /5

Sleek, statement-making aesthetic

Easily fit into luggage

Key functional elements

Only available in regular fit

If you’re headed to the big city and need travel shoes that look as good as they feel, we recommend the On Running Cloudrift Sneaker. Available in three colorways—White/Sand, Metal/Navy, or Ivory/Storm—they’re as fashion-forward as a sneaker can be, looking just as good with cute jeans or dresses as they do with athleisure wear. We loved the lightweight, breathable mesh upper made of performance running materials and the added heel cushioning provided by the Speedboard midsole. 

The shoes were comfortable right out of the box, with zero time required to break them in. Our tester appreciated their significant support—but did caution that potential buyers should size their pair carefully to avoid the structured cushioning hitting in awkward places and causing discomfort. There are no extra-width sizes, unfortunately. Nevertheless, with no wear and tear visible after our test period, these sneakers are likely to last a long time and are both light and packable enough to make them the perfect traveling companion.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Mesh upper, unspecified mid- and outsole | Sustainability: 35 percent recycled materials 

TripSavvy / Karen Chen

Best Sandals

Keen women's elle backstrap sandal.

• Quality 4.8 /5

Provide stable ride

Cute and casual aesthetic

Reduced environmental impact

Relatively expensive

Comfortable, attractive, lightweight, quick to dry, and easy to clean—it’s difficult to imagine a more perfect summer travel shoe than the KEEN Elle Backstrap Sandal. We loved the stretchy straps, allowing a snug fit without cutting off circulation. Made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, the straps held their shape even after miles of walking, keeping our feet securely in place with no slipping or sliding. The sandals also feature a compression-molded EVA midsole and an EVA footbed with arch support for all-day comfort. 

The rubber outsole offers plenty of traction and is non-marking, making it ideal for adventurous travel—whether you’re hitting the trail or heading out on a boat trip. The outsoles are also sustainable, using jute infusions to reduce the amount of rubber used. While pricey for sandals, we ultimately felt the cost was well worth it for the combination of quality and understated style. Our test pair was true to size, and there are many colors to choose from, including two-toned, patterned, and tie-dye shades.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: PET straps, EVA midsole, jute-infused rubber outsole | Sustainability: Straps made from recycled plastic bottles 

TripSavvy / Rachel Thalhuber

Best Hiking Sandals

Chaco women's zx2 classic sandal.

Lets you dial in the perfect fit

Handles demanding use

Toe loop may cause discomfort at first

Although we liked the Chaco Zx2 Classic Sandals so much we would recommend them “for anyone, for any kind of wear,” we found them particularly suitable for hiking trips. The polyester jacquard webbing straps wrap around the foot and through the midsole and are fully adjustable. This, combined with the added toe loop, makes the fit fully customizable for incredibly sturdy, supportive, all-day comfort. After eight solid hours of active wear, our feet were not tired. 

The sandals also feature a podiatrist-accepted, women’s specific PU footbed that promotes alignment and a non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole. We found the latter very thick, with a deep lug for excellent traction on rougher terrain. The only downside? We did experience some initial chafing around the toe loop, so we recommend breaking the sandals in before heading out on a hike. Choose yours in a medium or wide fit, in a range of colors from classic black to statement-making prints.

Sizes: 5 to 12 (no half-sizes) | Materials: Polyester straps, PU midsole, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Vegan-friendly construction 

TripSavvy / Jeanne Geer

Best for the Office

Olukai leather sneakers.

• Value 4.8 /5

The right balance between rigidity and flex

Two-way heel

Easy to maintain

Back tab may bump against the Achilles tendon

The Olukai Pehuea Lī ‘Ili Sneaker is an excellent choice for traveling professionals who need to look put-together but still want all-day comfort. Crafted from soft, full-grain leather, the shoes mold to your feet as you wear them, with anatomically contoured footbeds that we found instantly comfortable—no breaking-in required. The sneakers provide good arch support and offer a roomy toe box (perfect for those with wide feet).

Other than that, we loved that the footbeds are both removable and washable—a major plus for those who don’t like ruining their workplace aesthetic by wearing socks with their sneakers. And, a collapsible drop-in heel converts the sneakers to slip-ons for easy on-and-off through the airport (or under your desk). Other highlights include the non-marking Wet Grip Rubber outsole and the construction, which is durable enough to justify the slightly higher price tag. Choose from a range of office-appropriate colors, including white, tan, or black.

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Leather upper, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Not listed

Most Sustainable

Allbirds women's plant pacers.

• Value 4.5 /5

Wear in quickly

Cushioned fit

Not in love with the color

One for all those who want to look and feel good while also doing their bit to save the planet, the Allbirds Plant Pacers are 100 percent plastic- and petroleum-free. The uppers are made from plant leather, while the sugarcane-based, green EVA foam midsole is lined with a eucalyptus and recycled polyester blend. The outsole is natural rubber; even the laces feature 100 percent recycled polyester. We love the brand’s commitment to upcycling and feel that the shoes’ sustainability justifies their high-end price tag. 

They’re also lovely to look at, with a clean, refined aesthetic reinforced by a classic cupsole stitch. The only drawback is the slightly off-white color, which we felt seemed slightly unintentional, with no other colors to choose from. Nevertheless, the shade did hold up well to extended wear, despite our fears about potential staining. We found the shoes a little stiff out of the box, but within a wear or two, they felt as if we had owned them for years. They’re sturdy without being too rigid, with a comfortably thick sole and cushioned heel. 

Sizes: 5 to 11 (no half-sizes) | Materials: Plant leather upper, SweetFoam midsole, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Made from plant-based or recycled materials 

TripSavvy / Erica Finamore

Best Splurge

Frankie4 australia women's winnie ii white suede shoes.

• Comfort 5 /5

Upscale, slightly retro style

Adjustable fit

Zero breaking-in period required

Some more colors would be nice

We loved the look of the Frankie4 Winnie II Suede Sneakers, with their luxe perforated leather uppers and buttery soft suede accents. We had never experienced such out-of-the-box comfort before, so we would wholeheartedly recommend these sneakers despite them costing roughly four times the price of our overall winner. They have a shock-absorbing sole and use a specifically placed foam lining (made from recycled plastic bottles) to prevent pressure and rubbing. 

Furthermore, the podiatrist-designed footbed features a triple-layer system for impressive heel, arch, and forefoot support. We found that our heels didn’t move at all, and at no time did our toes feel cramped. Using the included insole set, the fit can also be customized to suit regular, wide, or narrow feet. Other benefits include the slip-resistant sole, the absence of any heavy materials for travel-friendly lightness, and an additional set of laces for alternate styling. The sneakers come in just two colors: white and black/white. 

Sizes: 6 to 13 | Materials: Leather upper, rPET foam lining, rubber outsole | Sustainability: Lining made from recycled plastic bottles 

TripSavvy / Morgan Ashley Parker

The Cloudfoam Pure Sneaker from Adidas has everything you want in a travel shoe: a light and breathable upper, extra cushy and supportive soles, and a reasonable price tag. If you are the type of traveler who tends to rack up miles at your destination, go for the New Balance 574 Core Sneaker .

First, we removed each pair of shoes from their packaging and visually inspected their material and design quality. In particular, we tested for potential arch support issues by seeing how much the sole flexed when bent in the middle. Next, we completed at least three test wear periods: the first for 30 minutes, the second for three hours, and the third for a full day. 

During each test period, we evaluated the shoes’ fit, whether they chafed or applied pressure in uncomfortable places, how breathable they were, and their traction on various surfaces and in different weather conditions. Finally, we scored each pair from 1 to 5 for comfort, fit, quality, and value, with the overall score determining whether they were included in our final selection.

Other Travel Shoes We Tested

Allbirds Wool Runners : While we found these sneakers comfortable and appreciated their sleek look, they were unsuitable for use in any kind of precipitation—making them too limited for a travel shoe.

TripSavvy / Taylor Fox

Vessi Women's Everyday Classic : We loved that these shoes were waterproof and lightweight, making them super versatile. However, they lost points because we didn't think they were stylish enough for evening wear. 

Suavs Women's The Zilker Gum : Although comfortable, we had concerns about the long-term durability of these shoes. They're also relatively expensive, although we did appreciate their packability and removable insoles. 

Taos Footwear Women's Star Sneaker : We found that these sneakers fit more narrowly than expected and experienced some rubbing during our test wears. We also felt that the arch support was uncomfortably pronounced. 

TripSavvy / Anna Knief

ECCO Women's Soft Sneaker : These sneakers were comfortable from the first wear and essentially fine in every way (if a bit overpriced). However, we wished they were a brighter white and came in half sizes. 

Ryka Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoe : While we felt these shoes weren't comfortable or supportive enough for serious runners, they were great for everyday use. The quality was good, and we liked their lightweight breathability. 

Birdies The Starling : These shoes had a significant break-in period, but they were very comfortable afterward. We loved the premium materials and professional look but would recommend it for business travel only. 

TripSavvy / Anna Popp

BIRKENSTOCK Arizona Essentials EVA : The pros of these shoes are that they're light, waterproof, and attractive. Cons were that it took a while to get the fit right and that they were pretty expensive for a simple sandal. 

Teva Universal Trail Sandals : These are excellent quality, comfortable sandals that will likely last a long time. They're on the more expensive side, though, and we'd recommend sizing up if you're between sizes. 

Osay Leather Slide Loafer : We love these beautifully made shoes for their quality leather construction, comfort, and the fact they can transform into slip-ons via a collapsible heel. They don't have much support, though.

What to Look For in Travel Shoes

Type of shoe.

The best type of shoe depends on where you’re going, the weather you’re expecting, and the kind of activities you’ll be doing. For a city break with lots of walking around town and perhaps a few park outings or urban hikes, you can’t beat a comfortable sneaker with plenty of breathable support. Choose one in a neutral shade like white, black, or tan, and you can probably wear it out to dinner as well—saving you from having to pack formal footwear. If you’re headed somewhere tropical , a lightweight, quick-drying sandal with a cute aesthetic and enough traction to be practical is the perfect all-rounder. 

The travel shoes mentioned on this list range in price from around $50 to approximately $200. With our overall winner also being the most affordable, it’s definitely possible to buy the perfect travel shoe without breaking the bank. However, you may want to pay a little more for a brand you know and love, for premium quality materials that will stand the test of time, or for a shoe that gives you peace of mind by exclusively using plant-based or recycled materials. Generally speaking, $100 is the average you should expect to spend on a good pair of travel shoes, with anything less or more representing the cheaper and pricier ends of the spectrum, respectively. 

Wearability

If one of the defining features of a travel shoe is that it can be worn in multiple different scenarios (and will therefore be one of only a few pairs you take with you), it’s essential that you actually enjoy wearing it and are comfortable doing so. Fit is key—the shoe should hug snugly enough that there’s no slippage when you walk, without rubbing, chafing, or putting pressure on any part of your foot or toes. If you’re going to be wearing the shoe for extended periods, some arch support is a good idea, while breathability is important if you plan on using the shoe for active pursuits such as hiking, running, or extensive walking.

The number of shoes you should pack for a vacation is very subjective, with the answer depending on everything from the climate of your destination to the range of activities you’ll be taking part in and your personal style choices. But, savvy travelers often apply the three-shoe rule to their packing: one pair of sandals or flip-flops, one pair of comfy sneakers that can also be dressed up, and possibly a pair of formal shoes or heels. You can switch one or more of these out to suit your specific needs—proper walking boots instead of heels for a hiking trip , perhaps, or insulated winter boots instead of sandals if you’re headed somewhere chilly. 

How you clean your travel shoes depends a lot on the shoe, with different methods recommended for different types, materials, and brands. The best option is to check and follow individual manufacturer’s guidelines for shoe cleaning and care. Generally speaking, though, many shoes can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth. Some are machine washable, while others have removable insoles that can be washed separately. The latter is a good idea if you’re heading somewhere warm, tend to get sweaty feet when walking a lot, or prefer not to wear socks with your sneakers. 

Although taking your shoes off at security is not a requirement at every airport, it’s a common enough rule that it makes sense to fly in footwear that’s easy to take off and put back on again quickly. That means swapping laces for zippers, elasticated straps, or pull-on styles, or, if you’re heading somewhere warm, opting for sandals or flip-flops. Some of the shoes on our list are designed with a collapsible heel so that you can slip your feet in and out in a matter of seconds but also enjoy a more structured, supported style when you reach your destination. Security aside, it’s always a good idea to fly in comfortable shoes —think sneakers, not heels.

Why Trust TripSavvy 

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor of articles related to adventure and family travel. She is a keen traveler herself, having explored more than 50 countries across six continents. She loves to get to know a city by walking for miles without a map, and as such, she has a keen appreciation for the value of a comfortable, hard-wearing pair of travel shoes. 

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These shoes were made for walkin'!

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks

Best Overall Travel Shoe

New balance fresh foam x 1080 v12.

Best Vintage Travel Shoes

Reebok club c 85.

Best Comfortable Travel Shoes

Rothys slip on sneakers.

Best Travel Shoes for Walking

Allbirds tree runners.

Best Travel Flats

Birdies goldfinch.

Best Travel Sandal

Chaco z/1 classic sandals.

Best Lightweight Travel Shoes

New balance fuelcore nergize v1 sneaker.

Best Travel Fashion Sandals

Vionic rest amber backstrap sandal.

Best Versatile Travel Shoes

Brooks ghost 15 neutral running shoe.

Best Travel Slides

Birkenstock arizona soft footbed.

The fiber scientists and product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textile Lab have been testing travel gear and footwear for decades, from the best running shoes for women to walking sandals , sneakers and more. We’ve evaluated and vetted hundreds of shoe styles for their construction, durability and performance in the Lab and sent consumer testers home with travel shoes. Testers report back on their fit, style and comfort over extended periods of wear. According to our footwear experts, travel enthusiasts and testers, these are the best travel shoes for your next trip.

After our top picks, keep reading to learn about what to look for when shopping for the best pair of travel shoes.

Tackle the Trevi fountain, the Louvre and Big Ben with these New Balance sneakers that will make you want to walk for miles. Featuring a roomy toe box for wider feet, a flexible knit upper and a lightweight design , they’re the perfect pair for all types of travelers. This style is a go-to among our testers thanks to their plush cushioning. Our pros also love that they’re available in a variety of colors so you can choose one that stands out or blends into the crowd.

READ MORE: The Best New Balance Shoes for Every Lifestyle

For a trendy, vintage look, consider these classic Reeboks that our very own product analysts own and love. "I love the simple, classic look that’s easy to dress up or dow n ," says Senior Textiles Analyst, Emma Seymour. "I find them comfortable to wear, but they’re stiffer and offer less cushioning," she warns, so anyone with joint pain or sensitivity should be cautious before purchasing. Still, their goes-with-anything vibe will easily take you from planes, trains and automobiles to restaurants and bars.

We all know that classic sneakers don’t always make you look like a local (or pair well with your cute dinner outfit), so why not consider these trendy slip-ons from Rothy’s? They’re casual, super comfortable and require very little breaking in, according to our footwear experts. Better yet, they’re machine washable so they’ll look as good as new even after your trip.

A Family Travel Awards winner , these popular Allbirds will easily squeeze into any suitcase without adding much weight or taking up much precious space. Our editors swear by how comfortable they are , naming them a must-have for trips to European capitals or destinations that require a lot of walking. On top of their lightweight design, breathability and supportive cushioning, We love the Tree Runners' classic style that comes in a variety of colors.

Sneakers aren’t the only shoes that can be comfortable, we promise. For those looking for a stylish flat for chicer destinations, our fiber scientists turn to this super cute pair of travel shoes from Birdies. Perfect for evenings out to dinner or visits to museums, we're fond of the seven-layer footbed that conforms to your foot and were impressed by the shoe's support and softness. Plus, they’re available in a variety of prints, patterns, colors and even half sizes.

Featuring support that rivals some sneakers, Chacos are a go-to if you hate being stuck inside sneakers or you're heading to a warm destination but still want plenty of security. A 2024 Travel Awards Winner , testers were impressed not only by the sandals’ support but also by the shoe’s built-in traction that helps prevent slipping on a variety of surfaces . Our experts also appreciate that the straps are adjustable so you can customize the perfect fit and that they're offered in a range of colors and prints.

Whether you’re bringing a carry-on or checking your luggage, it’s best to stick with lightweight travel shoes. To keep your total weight to a minimum without sacrificing comfort, our pros suggest this versatile pair of sneakers from New Balance that weighs just 150 grams per shoe . A favorite among our pros, these travel shoes allow for freedom of movement thanks to their breathable, mesh design at the front and can be easily slipped on. They were also recommended by the podiatrists we worked with to put together our list of the best walking shoes .

Vionic shoes are popular among our Lab experts for their high-quality construction and supportive designs. We love this orthotic disguised as a fashionable sandal for all occasions, whether you want to wear them during daytime tours or out for drinks in the evening. We appreciate that the footbed is made of soft microfiber so you’re comfy at all times and that the style is available in various sizes, widths and shades.

If you like to work out while you’re on vacation or think the best way to discover a town is by foot, consider bringing the Brooks Ghost 15 along for the trip. This neutral sneaker can be used for running and walking and is a top choice for anyone seeking stability and control. Our testers loved the Ghost 15 for its cushioning, support and traction and raved about their comfort.

Birkenstocks have even around since 1744 for a reason, and our product analysts and editors swear by the brand’s shoes for those who suffer from foot pain, bunions or other common issues. The Arizona is one of the brand’s most iconic designs and will look stylish (and feel comfortable) as you make your way around a new city while letting your toes breathe. We appreciate the shoe’s durable construction, which features a supportive cork footbed and genuine leather straps . For an even lighter option that’s perfect for the pool, consider the Arizona EVA model that's made entirely from plastic.

HOKA Bondi 8

Look around and you’ll probably see someone wearing HOKA sneakers . The brand's chunky sneaker style has a huge following. Though popular among runners, this French brand is also suitable for travel days thanks to its shoes' structure and support. To keep you on the move while walking through new cities (or if you’re someone with flat feet), our experts recommend the Bondi 8 for its plush cushioning and breathable mesh upper.

Crocs Classic Clogs

It’s hard to find shoes more lightweight, comfortable and convenient than Crocs, especially if you’re headed to a beach resort or plan to spend some time by the pool. Available in tons of fun colors and designs, our pros love how easy Crocs are to get on and off as well as their waterproof design. Just keep in mind that they lack the support needed for longer walks, so it’s best to keep them back at the hotel.

Merrell Moab 3

Heading to a national park this summer? These hiking shoes from Merrell are an absolute must. A top performer in Lab tests and a favorite among our testers, the Moab 3 is both super comfy and supportive. We love that they provide stability on rocky terrains and feature mesh panels to help keep your feet cool . Best of all, they’re on the lighter side for hiking shoes, so they won't weigh you down on your future adventures.

Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt Sneakers

Our editors can't get enough of these classic sneakers from Cole Haan. They're the perfect match to any outfit , whether you're wearing a sun dress or a casual pair of jeans. We love their lightweight construction, soft cushioning and all-leather design that's built to last. They may be the only pair of shoes you'll need for a casual weekend getaway.

Asgard Chelsea Boots

Our Textiles Lab analysts rave about these small, lightweight waterproof booties that are perfect for a city break, whether you're heading to Seattle, London, Paris or another rainy destination. The waterproof design should keep your feet dry throughout your travels, and their value (under $40) is hard to beat. We also appreciate that they're available in other fun colors like red or yellow so you can match them to your raincoat .

Teva Universal Sandal

Not only are these fan-favorite Teva sandals extremely lightweight, but they’re super comfortable and perfect for all types of beachwear or water adventures . They’re available in a variety of colors and patterns, as well as a platform style for those who want a little added height. We also appreciate that they feature adjustable straps for a secure fit around your foot, whether you have wider or narrower feet. Plus, they pack down so small that they make great backpacking shoes.

Columbia Ice Maiden II

Planning a trip to a snowy destination or hitting the ski slopes ? These snow boots from Columbia are a favorite among GH Institute analysts. Not only are they noticeably lighter and more flexible than many other snow boots, but this A mazon bestseller has a wide, roomy toe box so your feet never feel cramped. Testers found that the boots offer excellent traction, generous cushioning and just enough warmth and support.

OOFOS OOahh Slide

OOFOS are technically recovery shoes that aren’t meant to be worn all day, but you'll be grateful to slip them on at your hotel after a long day of getting your steps in . We also don't see the harm in wearing them during a long flight or by the pool (just rinse them off in the shower should they get dirty). Consumer testers rave about OOFOS' arch support and comfort, as well as how easy they are to slip on and off. Plus, they're so light that you likely won't notice any added weight in your suitcase.

Blundstone Classics Chelsea Boots

The Blundstone brand hails from Australia so you can count on these rugged shoes for your next outdoor adventure. Not only are these Chelsea boots durable, but they’re made of water-resistant leather so your feet stay dry no matter the weather . Testers found this model to be both stylish and super comfortable once broken in and appreciate the built-in pull tabs to make it easier to take the shoes on and off.

ECCO Yucatan Sport Sandal

Heading to the Yucatan? Whether or not a trip to Mexico is in the books, our pros recommend these sandals for hikes, walks and outdoor activities. Those seeking arch support and stability will appreciate the sandal’s high-quality design and soft, EVA molded footbed , in addition to three adjustable straps. Our testers also claim that the sandals don’t cause blisters and have great traction on all types of terrain.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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The Best Sandals for Travel, Hiking & Walking All Day

From a classic pair of birkenstocks to a modern set of sorels, these are the sandals that will keep your feet cool and comfy no matter how many steps you take..

We independently selected these deals and products because we love them, and we think you might like them at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

When it starts to get warm out , I wear sandals every day. But, since I also live in New York City, I walk everywhere, so I need a pair of sandals that can hold up to running for the train , going on coffee runs, and chasing my preschooler down the street. But, you don't have to live in the city to need a comfortable and functional pair of sandals. Whether you're traveling, on a hike, or just want some footwear that will hold up to a lot of steps, these are the best sandals for walking all day. I've put together a mix of styles, support, and waterproof options , and broke down what specs you should look for, so read on.

What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Sandals

There are some factors to consider when you're picking out walking sandals:

• Fit: Make sure that the shoe fits you comfortably. If your toes are right up to the top of the shoe, you may benefit from going up half a size. As you walk long distances, your feet expand , so if they're already tight, they'll get even tighter. 
• Straps: Keep an eye out for a walking sandal with adjustable straps, or straps that are flexible and expand. If the straps aren't designed to move with you and your foot, you could risk pain or blisters.
• Soles: You want your sandals to have a sole that's supportive, avoid something hard or heavy. Additionally, look for some gripping that can make sure you don't slip.
• Height: Sandals with a flat bottom or flip flops may not provide the support you need when you're on the move. But, you also don't want something that's too high. The right amount of arch support and height are key.
• Breathability: Yes, we're talking about sandals, which are typically open to the elements, but sometimes they can have too many straps or they're made of a material that makes you sweat. And, since you're walking and your feet are already sweating, this is something you want to avoid. Make sure your sandals allow air to flow and keep your feet cool.

So, keep on reading to find the best walking sandals for you. There's a mix of shoe sizes, widths, styles, cushioning, and more, for every kind of activity. You'll look great, you'll feel great, and your feet will thank you.

Teva Women's Original Universal Sandal

These Teva sandals are backed by over 18,000 5-star Amazon reviews, where fans praise their comfort and design. They feature multiple points of adjustability for just the right fit, a rubber outsole for traction, and a molded EVA footbed with heel cupping and arch support. One fan reported, "My favorite adventure sandals. Worn hiking, to the beach, paddle boarding."

• Available colors: 56
• Available sizes: 5 to 13

Skechers Women's On-The-go 600-Brillancy Sport Sandal

Another popular pick for footwear are these Skechers sport sandals . They're lightweight with a cushioned footbed and adjustable straps for the perfect fit. Reviewers rave that they're durable and sturdy, leaving one user to note, "I walked around for a week, 20k+ steps a day and not a single blister."

• Available colors: 5
• Available sizes: 5 to 12, including wide sizing

Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Islander Strappy Flat Sandal

Featuring a soft lining that's made from recycled bottles, these Dr. Scholl's sandals are a stylish and eco-friendly option. The straps are not adjustable, but they're stretchy and the sandals are easy to pull on. They're lightweight, with anatomical cushioning and support for your feet, and one reviewer to rave, "I've had to walk a long way in these shoes. They were so comfortable i didn't even notice them. Lots of compliments."

• Available colors:  6
• Available sizes:  6 to 11, including half sizing

SOREL Kinetic Impact II Sling Low Sandal

With a thick, scalloped sole, bright colorblocking, and adjustable straps, you'll turn heads with these walking sandals . There's cushioning for your feet and one reviewer reported, "Super comfy to wear all day long."

• Available colors:  3
• Available sizes: 5.5 to 10, including half sizing

Merrell Women's Bravada Backstrap Sport Sandal

Adjustable straps, a grippy outsole, and cushioned insole make these Merrell sport sandals  perfect for any kind of activity. One reviewer raved that they're easy to clean and added, "I wore them walking all over Europe. I also wear them daily on 5 mile walks."

• Available sizes: 5 to 11

OOFOS OOriginal Sandal

If you're looking for a supportive sandal that's more than just a flip flop, these OOFOS are it. They're designed to absorb impact with every step, support your arches, and reduce stress when your feet are sore. They also come with over 19,000 5-star Amazon reviews, including this fan who raved, "They are like walking on a cloud. [...] I've walked miles in them with no issues whatsoever!"

• Available colors:  15
• Available sizes: 5 to 18

BEARPAW Crest Black

I have a pair of these stylish BEARPAWs and the cushioned EVA midsole, adjustable straps, and faux leather feel keep me supported (and looking good) all day long. I walk everywhere in them and I'm tempted to buy another pair in coffee or orchid.

Birkenstock Women's Gizeh Sandals

Everyone needs a classic pair of Birkenstocks in their wardrobe. They're so durable and comfortable, due to the contoured cork footbed and adjustable strap, plus you can get them in over 100 different colors. One shopper noted, "Best sandals for walking or being on your feet a lot especially if you have arch issues."

• Available colors:  132
• Available sizes:  4 to 15, including half sizing

KEEN Women's Elle Backstrap Casual Platform Open Toe Wedge Sandals

With stretchy straps, a cushy EVA midsole, and plenty of traction, these sandals are great for walking or traveling all day. Featured here is an eye-catching neon color, but there are 18 colorways to choose from, including tie dye. A satisfied shopper reported, "I wore them to walk around Disney World, walking 20,000+ steps a day for 4 days and they were amazing."

• Available colors:  18
• Available sizes: 5 to 11, including half sizing

Teva Zymic Sandals

Looking for some comfy Tevas with a little more lift? Then you have to check out these sandals . They're cushioned, made of recycled plastic, and feature puffy, adjustable straps that fit like a dream. One user noted, "I wear them on hikes, walks, day trips, anything."

• Available sizes:  6 to 10

Hoka Hopara

Hoka sandals ? I'm listening. They're just as comfortable as Hoka sneakers and can hold up to any hike's terrain. There's an adjustable lace for just the right fit, a cushioned footbed, and plenty of traction, even if it gets wet. A fan wrote, "These are the best summer shoes I've ever owned."

• Available colors:  2

KEEN Women's Rose Casual Closed Toe Sandals

If you like the look of the Hokas, but want something a little more budget-friendly, these KEEN sandals  with a closed toe design are a solid option. They're adjustable, cushioned, and have lots of traction. Best of all, they're washable when you need a refresh and one shopper reported that they were "able to walk long distances immediately."

• Available colors:  16
• Available sizes: 5 to 12, including half sizing

Teva Women's Hurricane Xlt2 Sandal

These Tevas are a modernized version of previous models and include better traction and softer padding. They're cute, cushioned, adjustable, and designed for hiking or walking. One reviewer added, "I wore them for my 11 hour work day where I walk a ton and my feet didn't hurt at all."

• Available colors:  44
• Available sizes:  5 to 14

Get your feet toe-tally ready for sandal season with these must-have essentials.

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.

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The New Sleek Sandal Trend That’s Taken the Runways (And Our Shopping Carts!) by Storm

By Laura Jackson

All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.

It’s not uncommon for Vogue editors to become completely transfixed by a fresh-off-the-runway shoe trend . This spring, it’s been a trifecta of Miu Miu’s driving loafer , Dries Van Noten’s retro sneakers , and those masterfully minimal ballet flats at Proenza Schouler. And now, as we step into summer, all eyes are on seriously sleek pairs of strappy heeled sandals, from Khaite and Jil Sander to Reformation and Zara. With an understated, ’90s-inspired feel, this shoe style is a true warm-weather wardrobe essential , effortlessly paired with everything from great white dresses and sheer skirts to relaxed pairs of jeans and even cargo pants .

L-R: Ferragamo; Proenza Schouler; Jil Sander; Chloé; Khaite

Vogue’s Guide to the Sleekest Strappy Heeled Sandals:

• The Beige Beauty: Neous Ibor leather slingback sandals , $650
• The Catwalk-to-Closet: Khaite Jones leather sandals , $950
• The Red-Hot: Jil Sander high-heeled sandals , $970
• The High Street Hero: Mango leather straps sandals , $160
• The Two-Toned Sandal: Reformation Daphne heeled sandals , $248
• The Metallic Sandal: Emme Parsons Hugo strappy sandals , $515
• The Bare Sandal: Banana Republic Terzo leather kitten-heel sandals , $200
• The Wedge: St. Agni minimal wedges , $319
• The Bright White: Studio Amelia Entwined 70 heeled sandals , $425
• The Rope Sandal: Proenza Schouler Tee ankle-strap sandals , $795

A moment of pause, please for Jil Sander’s statement red sandals , which feature a chic parting middle line and instantly caught our attention last September. Styled on the runway with a sheer black tight, the final look was bold and sophisticated. As pictured above, sport yours this spring with a matching trouser and shirt set. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed! For another twisted take on the trend , look to snakeskin-printed pairs from St. Agni and Khaite or to Jacquemus’ double-stacked sandals. Options in classic black are timeless, of course, with styles from Aeyde to Mango making for easy summer dressing .

Meanwhile, two-toned heeled sandals from Reformation and Proenza Schouler are a must-add to your summer rotation , adding a festive feel to any outfit in mind. Elegant evenings out call for metallic pairs from Emme Parsons and Flattered to Bottega Veneta and Ferragamo. And finally, because no summer-in-the-city outfit could be complete without a pop of bright white , strappy heeled sandals from Chloé to The Row are just the ticket. Below, 32 strappy heeled sandals to shop now.

Jones leather sandals

Ibor leather slingback sandals

NET-A-PORTER

leather straps sandals

leather sandals

Knot leather sandals

Reformation

Daphne heeled sandals

REFORMATION

Emme Parsons

Hugo strappy sandals

BERGDORF GOODMAN

Runway cage heels

Jolie sandals

Banana Republic

Terzo leather kitten-heel sandals

BANANA REPUBLIC

minimal wedges

Proenza Schouler

Tee ankle-strap sandals

high-heeled sandals

LUISA VIA ROMA

high-heeled strap sandals

satin ankle-strap sandals

Etana leather mule sandals

NEIMAN MARCUS

Rebecca leather wedge sandals

Les Doubles leather sandals

Rhonda patent-leather sandals

Massimo Dutti

multi-strap heeled sandals

MASSIMO DUTTI

Bottega Veneta

Eunisa sandals

Jones snake-effect sandals

Studio Amelia

Entwined 70 heeled sandals

Bare leather sandals

Georgia kitten heeled sandals

square leather sandals

strappy heeled sandals

Alexandre Birman

Tita Bell raffia sandals

Harlow slingback sandals

Paris Texas

Liz slingback heeled sandals

Saint Laurent

Jaspe satin mules

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The Most Comfortable Walking Sandals, According To Outdoor Tour Guides

Shopping Writer for HuffPost

Sandals are an essential shoe for many, but not always the most comfortable option in your footwear lineup. Whether it be a lack of insole support, awkward straps that rub or a slippery outer-sole that’s not to be trusted, there can be plenty of reasons you don’t reach for sandals every day.

Outdoor tour guides, however, often have to rely on sandals to get them through their work day as they traverse a variety of terrains in any number of weather conditions and for long periods of time. Because of this, I was curious to learn the sandals and footwear brands they trust to provide them with this level of comfort.

Adventure chaperones from Hawaii and beyond helped create the upcoming selection of comfy walkable sandals, ideal for all types of outings. Find general sandal tips, waterproof clogs, all-terrain Tevas that you can even wear hiking and more.

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Sandal Trends 2024 Are All About These 7 Styles

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It’s time to move your knee-high boots to the back of your closet because it’s officially sandal season. Pick a nail polish shade for your pedicure and pick a sandal trend for 2024 to slip on your feet. Whether you plan on spending the summer at a beach, bopping around the city or somewhere in between, this year’s sandal trends include an option for any setting.

If you’re like me and can’t walk in a heel, you’ll want to opt for a more comfortable (but equally chic) kitten heel. With Y2K fashion in full swing , the mini heel is here to stay. The trend just picked up steam on TikTok—and with summer just around the corner, the it-girls of New York City will soon be dusting off their favorite pairs. The kitten heel is the perfect shoe to wear whether you’re going to a formal event, or just want a cute shoe to run around in.

For the well-deserved beach vacation on your calendar, you can count on comfortable slides and fisherman silhouettes to take over your suitcase. Plenty of the vacation sandal options work for day and nighttime activities so you won’t have to double pack.

If you’re a fan of platform boots , rest assured chunky sandals will be just as big (pun intended) this summer. The platform silhouette has been a huge trend this year and summer is the perfect time to experiment with sandals that help you reach new heights.

No matter what you’ll be doing this summer, there are tons of sandals to slay in. Thankfully, 2024 has brought us a plethora of sandal trends—so you’re sure to find your perfect pair.

Slingback Sandals

This summer, if you can’t decide between a ballet flat or a sandal—we have the perfect shoe for you. Slingback sandals are the perfect choice for a chic yet comfortable look. Like kitten heels, they’re easier to walk in than traditional heels. If you’re packing light for your summer getaway, slingback sandals are a necessity because they can be dressed up or down.

Fisherman Sandals

Fashion inspired by the 2014 Tumblr-era has made its way back into the trend cycle and fisherman sandals are a prime example. Fisherman sandals feature a caged silhouette and are typically made out of a leather material (though you’ll also find rubber jelly iterations). The design makes the shoes comfortable and easy to walk in. They’re especially a great choice if you live in a city and don’t want any part of your foot to get too close to the ground.

Kitten Heels

Kitten heels were huge in the 2000s and they’re making a big comeback this summer. (Carrie Bradshaw would be proud.) Mini heels are certifiably cool again and as someone who hates blisters and high heels, I’m thrilled. The style is getting back to its Y2K roots with tons of options featuring bows, flowers, and butterflies—making them a girly staple for your wardrobe. Wear them with a mini skirt, a maxi dress or breezy jeans for the ultimate summer look.

Slide Sandals

When you’re running out of the house, you don’t want to deal with buckling or lacing a shoe up. Slide sandals are the most effortless sandal option to put on your feet while still looking totally put together. There are so many different versions of slide sandals on the market right now, which means you can either opt for a minimalist black leather pair or go for something fun (I prefer the second option).

Platform Sandals

Whether you need extra height or just love stomping around, platform sandals are the it-girl shoe for the summer. They come in a variety of materials and colors making them a very versatile silhouette. Not to mention, they pair perfectly with almost any outfit. While countless designers have released their own version of platform sandals, there are tons of options that aren’t as high end.

Mule Sandals

Mules are the perfect hybrid shoe between platform sandals and slides. Just like slides, you can slip them on in a rush and look effortlessly stylish. ’90s shoe trends will always be cool and these are proof. When in doubt, a mule sandal is always a great shoe to wear out to dinner because it can easily be dressed up or down.

Platform Flip Flops

You read that right. Flip flops are officially chic again—but more specifically, platform flip flops. Like a lot of 2024’s sandal trends, platform flip flops are straight out of the ’90s. They might not be the most practical shoe, but they’re a great choice for hitting the beach or running around on a hot day. Everything’s better in platform so naturally these controversial shoes are making a comeback in a bigger silhouette.

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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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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Things on Sale

• 23 Things on Sale You’ll Want: From Bathing Culture to Bose 23 Things on Sale You’ll Want: From Bath…
• ‘Quite Indulgent’ Brooklinen Towels for 25 Percent Off ‘Quite Indulgent’ Brooklinen Towels for…
• Parachute’s Best Basics Are on Sale, Just for Our Readers Parachute’s Best Basics Are on Sale, Jus…
• 11 Things on Sale You’ll Want: From Brita to Fjällräven 11 Things on Sale You’ll Want: From Brit…
• Lunya’s Summer-Friendly Robes Are Half Off Lunya’s Summer-Friendly Robes Are Half O…
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• These Convenient Whitening Strips Are 25 Percent Off These Convenient Whitening Strips Are 25…
• This Fluttery, Summery Dress Is Just $42 This Fluttery, Summery Dress Is Just $42
• 12 Things on Sale You’ll Want: From Cozy Earth to Levi’s 12 Things on Sale You’ll Want: From Cozy…
• The Best Mattress Sales to Shop Right Now The Best Mattress Sales to Shop Right No…
• 23 Things on Sale You’ll Actually Want to Buy: From Bathing Culture to Bose

There are so many sitewide sales happening this weekend, including at Bathing Culture, Brooklinen, and Posh Peanut — and all of those end on Sunday night, so don’t dillydally. We’ve also been doing some deal-making of our own, because Parachute is offering our readers an exclusive discount on its Strategist-approved bedding for a limited time. As always, make sure to sign up for our  email newsletter  for even more sales coverage — including extra deals each Friday hand-selected by yours truly.

Kicking things off with an ultrarare, Strategist-only sale: Parachute is offering our readers 20 percent off all bedding inserts — meaning pillows, comforters, and mattress toppers — with the code STRAT20 this weekend only. You can’t go wrong with our best-selling down pillow , but you can also find everything on sale in my post here .

It’s been way too long since I’ve seen our best overall sunscreen go on sale, and right now you can nab the tinted version for 20 percent off at both Amazon (when you apply the on-site coupon) and Dermstore (with the code SKIN20).

Or if you prefer the non-tinted version, the discount applies to all of EltaMD’s products.

Here’s another oldie but goodie, just in time for summer. It comes in five colors, but it’s the cheapest when you buy it in pink.

Continuing with some hot-weather staples: Here’s a really good deal on some wear-everywhere Chacos .

And a dressier sandal for summer weddings.

I was shocked to find this handsome leather Dooney & Bourke bag for over half-off at Amazon, of all places. (Just make sure you apply the on-site coupon to get an extra $10 off.)

Also half-off is this braceletlike wristwatch from Anne Klein …

… and a leather option — for under $80 — from Fossil.

Skip the basic khaki cargos, because this blue pair is only $7.

A lovely essential-oil diffuser that would make a sweet (and inexpensive ) Mother’s Day gift .

Or go all-in for the photography-loving mom with this instant-camera bundle, which includes a photo printer and 60 photo sheets.

My noise-canceling Bose headphones — which are also beloved by busy  college students and  frequent fliers — are $100 off.

For bikini-area trimming, we recommend this  electric razor . It’s waterproof and made with ceramic blades that can be replaced every three to four months, so you can use it all summer without fear of nicks.

Use the code SKIN20 to take 20 percent off everything from PCA Skin. I recommend picking up this extra-strength  vitamin-C serum , which is powerful without causing irritation — even on  sensitive skin .

If you missed out on stocking up on Act+Acre during our Two-Day Sale, we’ve got good news: The brand is extending our exclusive discount through the end of April. Use the code STRAT to take 35 percent off its cold-pressed detox oil, which is a great weekly deep cleanser to remove buildup from products and oil, as well as stimulate the scalp to encourage hair growth.

Everything at Brooklinen is 25 percent off this weekend, which is the best deal we’ve ever seen the brand offer. This “breathable” linen sheet set feels like “an angel’s kiss,” according to former Strategist writer Lauren Levy, and have “an immediately worn-in feel that only gets softer over time.”

Amazon is price-matching a few of Brooklinen’s staples, including our best overall  duvet cover . (Note that you’ll find more pattern and color options at Brooklinen.)

If you’re in the market for an actually nice-looking work backpack or diaper bag , look no further than this $50 option from the Honest Company.

Everything at sustainable brand Bathing Culture is 20 percent off this weekend. (The discount will show up once you add items to your cart.) Our senior editor Simone Kitchens has been using this body wash for years, and it has a similar feel to Dr. Bronner’s and a lovely woodsy scent.

Bathing Culture’s organic-cotton towels are a thing of beauty; I’ve had this hand towel since 2020 and can attest that it both is lovely to look at and dries quickly (even in my unventilated bathroom).

Sale styles are an extra 25 percent off in-cart over at Vans. These are a nice upgrade from your checkered slip-ons.

Posh Peanut’s supersoft kids’ clothing rarely goes on sale, but you can get up to 75 percent off sitewide (even in the sale section) through the end of the weekend.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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