For many frequent travelers, footwear represents a familiar packing dilemma. While everyday closets may overflow with an eclectic mix of sneakers, flats, sandals, heels, boots, flip-flops, and clogs, travel demands ruthless editing. When limited to a single carry-on bag, space is at an absolute premium, meaning versatility transitions from a nice-to-have feature to an absolute necessity. Yet, even ahead of versatility, comfort reigns supreme. Whether a vacation itinerary calls for an all-day wilderness hike, miles of pounding urban pavement while exploring a new city center, or a leisurely afternoon strolling around a cruise ship pool deck, supportive walking shoes are quite literally the foundation of any successful trip.
Recognizing this perennial travel challenge, editors at Condé Nast Traveler are in a constant state of evaluation, testing and vetting walk-all-day shoes across the globe. The benchmark for a great travel shoe is simple yet rigorous: it must leave the wearer blister-free, protecting sensitive heels and weary arches from irritation. Ideal travel shoes offer generous cushioning and, ideally, require minimal break-in time—though seasoned travelers are often willing to make tactical exceptions for long-lasting investments like leather hiking boots or structured sandals that require a bit of initial tender loving care.
To help travelers navigate these choices, the editorial team has compiled a curated collection of nearly two dozen all-time favorite picks spanning the best sneakers, boots, sandals, and flats. Tested personally on vacations, weekend getaways, and demanding work trips around the world, these selections cover a wide range of styles and price points to suit any travel profile.
Casual Sneakers
For everyday urban exploration, casual sneakers remain a luggage staple. Rothy’s has long enjoyed a devoted following among the publication’s team for its flats and loafers, but the brand’s newer athletic-inspired options have recently captured significant attention. Meaghan Kenny, a commerce editor, notes that she has relied heavily on the brand’s knit retro and runner-style sneakers for city strolls, office commutes, and weekend outings. Highlighting their durable outsoles, she points out the exceptional traction they provide on slick or rainy sidewalks, comparing the secure grip favorably to professional footwear worn in hospitality environments. Other practical perks like machine-washable designs and supportive interiors make them reliable companions for full days on foot.
Meanwhile, classic retro aesthetics continue to dominate street style, most notably demonstrated by the enduring popularity of the Adidas Samba OG. First introduced in 1950, the iconic shoe has enjoyed a massive resurgence over the last several years. Editorial assistant Kat Chen calls them her absolute ride-or-die travel companion, noting that a previous pair lasted a full decade of heavy wear before finally retiring. Similarly, other editors frequently pack them for heavy-walking itineraries across major metropolitan areas and rugged landscapes alike. For those seeking a slight twist on the classic low-profile look, the Adidas Gazelle Bold offers a platform alternative that adds roughly an inch of height while maintaining all-day wearability during extended standing events like concerts, festivals, or rainy weekend trips.
New Balance has also secured a permanent spot in editors’ luggage rotation. The classic 574 Core sneaker is frequently cited as a masterclass in balancing athletic comfort with everyday street style. Reviewers note that despite years of heavy travel use—spanning airport dashes, multi-day walking trips in historic cities, and daily commutes—the supportive suede-and-mesh design preserves its structural integrity without causing foot fatigue after hours of movement. Atoms Model 001 white sneakers offer another sleek option, featuring an antimicrobial lining, compression-molded midsole, and remarkably soft interior fabric that prevents blisters even when worn with no-show socks.
Athletic Shoes
When itineraries shift from casual sightseeing to high-mileage walking tours or outdoor adventures, specialized athletic footwear becomes essential. The Salomon XT-6 has earned high praise from commerce writers who travel extensively. Weighing next to nothing and featuring a streamlined lacing system that facilitates effortless removal through airport security checkpoints, these shoes bridge the gap between technical trail performance and fashionable gorpcore city style.
Similarly, Hoka running shoes have built a massive following among travelers tackling massive step counts. Despite their thick, highly cushioned soles, models like the Hoka Clifton 11 remain surprisingly lightweight, fitting easily into the dedicated shoe compartments of weekend duffels without adding dead weight. Editors report wearing them successfully on rugged day hikes, extended shopping excursions, and high-step theme park visits.
For dedicated trail enthusiasts, the Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe remains an industry heavyweight. With more than 25 million pairs sold over its 15-year history, the third-generation model continues to prove its mettle on wet coastal roads, moderate mountain hikes, and international adventures. Offering robust traction, protective toe caps, and a comfortable fit that packs down easily, it represents a reliable choice for rugged terrain.
Flats
The resurgence of the ballet flat has introduced sophisticated yet packable options for travelers seeking an elevated look without sacrificing comfort. Puma’s Speedcat ballet flats have emerged as a trendy favorite, blending the low profile of a classic driving shoe with athletic-inspired breathability and vibrant color pops suitable for international city breaks.
Rothy’s has mastered the comfort equation with styles like The Max Square Mary Jane and The Almond loafer. Crafted from flexible, machine-washable materials with cushioned insoles, these designs require virtually zero break-in time. They offer secure, breathable fits that protect against blisters during long transit days and warm-weather strolls. For a more traditional luxury feel, M.Gemi’s leather flats feature butter-soft Italian construction, supportive crisscross elastic straps, and flexible soles designed to pack completely flat inside a suitcase while remaining remarkably sturdy over years of urban walking.
For those encountering unpredictable coastal weather or resort environments, Melissa’s Ultragirl Futura and Possession jelly sandals offer waterproof, low-maintenance versatility. Blending the concepts of a clog, a ballet flat, and a classic retro jelly, these shoes provide surprising cushioning and robust traction for beach walks, rocky shorelines, and damp city streets.
Slip-Ons and Clogs
Slip-on footwear offers unmatched convenience during airport security lines and long-haul flights where travelers frequently alternate between compression socks and regular footwear. Blundstone’s #2521 clogs have quickly won over editors seeking a sturdy, supportive alternative to traditional slip-ons. Featuring a lightweight, heat-resistant TPU outsole and premium leather uppers, they deliver dependable all-day comfort for urban exploring while ensuring rapid on-and-off utility.
Handmade Sabah slip-ons provide another artisanal option for frequent flyers. Hand-stitched from buttery soft leather or suede by specialized craftspeople, these shoes gradually mold to the contours of the wearer’s foot, behaving like a custom-fit glove after minimal wear.
For dressier occasions and urban office environments, the Life Stride Leighton pump proves that heels can occasionally earn a spot on strict packing lists. Featuring a flexible microfiber toe box, a modest and supportive heel height, and a secure ankle strap, it offers a practical, pain-free solution for transitioning seamlessly from daytime professional meetings to evening dinners.
Boots and Sandals
When winter weather or rugged terrain requires substantial boots, versatility is paramount. Blundstone’s Classic Chelsea boots remain an enduring favorite, combining tough, water-resistant leather uppers with convenient pull-tabs. While they demand a brief break-in period of a week or two, they subsequently mold permanently to the foot, offering bombproof durability across light hiking trails and ancient cobblestones alike. For colder urban destinations, Grenson’s Nanette hiker boots provide robust commando soles and soft leather construction designed to withstand miles of harsh winter pavement in major metropolitan centers.
In warmer climates, sandal selection depends heavily on foot support and surface traction. Grenson’s Quinta fisherman sandals offer substantial protection and arch support, comfortably withstanding rocky Mediterranean beaches and long transit days. Meanwhile, classic Birkenstock Arizona styles—particularly those featuring secure big buckles or ergonomic cork-latex footbeds—continue to anchor editors’ warm-weather packing lists, successfully logging double-digit walking miles in cities like Barcelona without causing friction or discomfort. Teva’s Midform Universal sandals round out the warm-weather lineup, offering quick-dry materials, reliable traction, and platform elevation suitable for everything from sandy beaches to active city walks.
FAQ:
How are these shoes tested?
Some of these shoes are favorites that editors have worn for years on their own accord; others were tested specifically for the purpose of identifying top-tier walking shoes for travelers. Every recommendation has been worn by an editor multiple times and verified as suitable for all-day wear. If a shoe fails to provide comfort during extended hours on foot, it is excluded from the list.
What should I consider before buying new shoes?
Travelers should prioritize versatility, cushioning, and support, as packing space is limited. Consider the primary activities and climate of your destination—closed-toe sneakers or boots are ideal for rainy or cold environments, while sandals suit beach and warm-weather trips. Additionally, coordinate shoe colors with your travel wardrobe; neutral shoes pair well with colorful outfits, while bright statement shoes can enliven a neutral wardrobe.
Which brand has the most comfortable walking shoes?
Comfort varies by intended use. Athletic brands like Hoka, Nike, and Brooks excel for high-mileage walking and workouts. Casual options from Adidas and New Balance suit everyday sightseeing. For water activities, Teva is a reliable choice, while Grenson, Dr. Martens, and Vagabond offer sturdy boots for colder climates. Rothy’s and M.Gemi provide comfortable, professional options for business travel and dining.
Which shoes are best for walking long hours?
For continuous, high-mileage walking across demanding terrain, highly cushioned athletic footwear with robust support and breathability—such as sneakers from Hoka, Asics, and Brooks—typically delivers the best results.
