After years and years and YEARS of searching for the perfect set of travel shoes to pair with the many different outfits I wore on my adventures, I’m happy to say that I finally did it.
I have found the perfect sets of travel shoes (for both women and men) that don’t sacrifice style for comfort.
For years in my young 20s, I had been pairing ugly running shoes and unsupportive flats with jeans and dresses. If I wanted comfort, I would go for the running shoes. If I wanted to dress up, I went for the flats.
But the running shoes never matched my outfits, and the flats (while cute) were uncomfortable, sweaty, and made my feet smell. TMI but ugh, glad those days are a thing of the past!
Enough was enough–it was finally time to invest my time in researching the best shoe money could buy! After years of trialing different shoes during my travels, I’ve whittled down the list of thousands of potential walking shoes for travel to just a select few.
At this point, I have just about five or six pairs of shoes that I alternate between depending on the season and the occasion. These are my tried and true faves, and I don’t know what I’d do without them!
Need something where you can walk for miles on end exploring the city? I’ve got something cute for you. Need something for those rainy days? I’ve got that too. Something for those dressier days? There’s a travel shoe that’s great for that too!
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10 Best Walking Shoes For Travel (That Are Actually Cute!)
Here’s a sneak peek at some of my most beloved travel shoes:
Table of Contents
Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Lace-Up
Available for both men and women
Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Lace-Up sneakers are ones that I normally recommend for people headed to the cobblestone-y continent of Europe. These shoes feature a retro-inspired platform design that effortlessly blends style and comfort.
In the reviews section on Amazon, you can see tons of photos of girls wearing these while traipsing around Europe. Apparently, they went viral on TikTok for a while, too!
These sneakers come with a platform sole that provides extra lift, which can be great when you have to trudge through lots of cobblestone streets — or just want a bit of added height. They also include a cushioned insole, a hallmark of Dr. Scholl’s comfort technology, offering support for your feet during extended walks.
The laces are clean and simple, which makes this a super versatile shoe that pairs well with almost anything.
That said, if you’re someone who’s already super tall and doesn’t want the extra height or bulk of a platform shoe, you might want to pass on these. Personally speaking, I love, love, love the overall look of these, but I don’t need to look any taller than I already do!
CHECK THEM OUT ON:
VEJA Campo
Available for both men and women
I’ll be honest, I used to overlook the VEJA Campo because of how hyped up they were. But years later—long after the buzz faded—they’re still a cult favorite for a reason. Turns out, the hype wasn’t just hype. The Campo really does have legs as a great travel companion!
The Campo blends clean lines with stylish details like colorful logo accents and a slightly chunkier silhouette that gives them a bit more fashion edge (without looking like you’re trying too hard).
Think classic white sneaker—but make it sleek, structured, and cool enough to wear in Paris or while navigating TSA lines at 6 a.m.
They’re also built to last and wear well: The genuine leather upper and coated canvas overlays give them structure, while the jersey-blend lining and cushioned insole make them comfy for long walking days.
Plus, the outsole is made from wild Amazonian rubber, which is just one of the many ways VEJA is walking the walk when it comes to sustainability.
I especially like how they work with just about any travel outfit—denim, flowy dresses, bike shorts—you name it. And they’re neutral enough to blend in but still stand out in the best way.
Pro Tip: These run slightly large. If you’re in between sizes, go down rather than up.
Highlights:
- Made with responsibly sourced leather and Amazonian wild rubber
- Certified B Corp and Leather Working Group Certified
- Stylish enough to wear from day to night
- Made in Brazil with fair-trade and eco-conscious practices
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ECCO Soft 7 Sneakers
Available for both men and women
Have you heard about or seen ECCO Soft 7 Sneakers? If you’ve read any of my other posts, chances are you’ve probably seen me recommend them before. I love these shoes dearly — both my partner and I have a pair of our own, and we never go anywhere without packing them with us!
If you’re not familiar with the brand, ECCO is loved by nurses and other professionals who need to be on their feet all day long. That’s because ECCO shoes are designed for comfort and support, and the Soft 7 Sneakers are no exception. They have incredible arch support and cushioning, making them perfect for walking around all day.
And the best part? They’re super stylish! It’s truly the perfect low-profile, everyday sneaker that exudes a more refined look due to the smooth leather it’s made with. They come in a range of classic earth-toned colors (with white and black being my faves), so you can easily pair them with just about any outfit.
They’re perfect for casual wear (those days when you’re feeling like jeans or leggings), but can also be dressed up with a pair of slacks or a sundress, or a skirt!
When it comes to travel, the ECCO Soft 7 Sneakers are a staple for me. They are going to be a bit heavier in weight compared to the Allbirds above, but the support they give is so worth the extra weight and bulk.
Want a pair that can handle the rain? They also have a waterproof Soft 7 version made with GORE-TEX.
Highlights:
- Incredible arch support and cushioning
- Stylish and versatile, with classic colors that can be paired with any outfit
- Lightweight and packable, making them perfect for travel
- Loved by professionals who need to be on their feet all day
CHECK THEM OUT ON:
Vionic Winny Casual Sneaker
Available for women
The Vionic Winny Casual Sneaker is a popular walking shoe that’s easy on the eyes, simple, cute, and has also received the APMA Seal of Acceptance! It’s a quadruple win!
One of the standout features of the Vionic Winny Casual Sneaker is its arch support. The shoe is designed with a contoured footbed that provides excellent arch support, which can help alleviate foot pain and discomfort. This makes the shoe a great choice for people with conditions such as plantar fasciitis or flat feet.
In addition to its foot health benefits, the Vionic Winny Casual Sneaker is also stylish and versatile. It comes in a range of neutral colors and materials, including leather and suede, so it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion!
The shoe also looks sporty without giving “dad shoe” or “running shoe” vibes, so it’ll look great with lots of different outfits. Yes, they’ll look good even with jeans!
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HOKA ONE ONE Sneakers – Bondi or Clifton
Available for both men and women
HOKA ONE ONE shoes are undoubtedly the most “running shoe” looking option on this list, but I couldn’t resist including them because of their exceptional comfort for both walking and running.
HOKA has built a long-standing reputation in the world of athletic footwear, and it’s no surprise that marathon runners and hikers trust this brand to deliver all-day comfort.
Plus, they’re one of the only ones on this list that are APMA Seal Approved, meaning they have been evaluated and found to promote good foot health. I ended up buying a pair of the limey yellow ones and I’m totally obsessed with the comfort I get from them.
In fact, almost all the active people I’m around own a pair! My mom does her daily walking in these, and my partner wears these for work as he’s on his feet all day long. His mom, who’s a nurse, also has a few pairs that she cycles through.
Their shoes provide such a plush, pillowy feel under the feet!
PRO TIP: Anthropologie and Free People always have them in the cutest colors!
EXPLORE HOKA CLIFTON ON:
EXPLORE HOKA BONDI ON:
Blundstone Boots
Whenever I travel during the months of November to May, Blundstones are likely in the rotation of travel shoes I bring with me. Blundstones = legendary durability and comfort!
Blundstone is a brand that’s been around for over 150 years, and they’re loved worldwide for their dependability and durability. The Blundstone Boots are no exception. They’re made from high-quality materials, including premium leather and durable rubber, making them perfect for any adventure.
Despite being a boot, the Blundstone Boots are actually great for walking. They have a cushioned footbed and a supportive sole, making them comfortable for long walks and even mild hikes. Plus, they’re waterproof, so they’re perfect for rainy days.
Their waterproof feature is the #1 reason why I bought them. In cases of sad, rainy weather, you won’t have to worry about getting your feet wet or ruining your shoes.
I personally hate spending any energy worrying about whether my shoes are getting wet or dirty, and with shoes that are fit for rain and puddles, I can focus all my energy on having fun while I travel!
Personally, I have the Original #510s since I wanted an all-black look to pair with anything and everything I own, but they also have other color combos you can choose from with The Original #500s.
Highlights:
- Legendary comfort with lasting durability
- Made from high-quality materials, including premium leather and durable rubber
- Waterproof, making them perfect for rainy days
- Their iconic pull-tabs make putting on and taking off a breeze
EXPLORE BLUNDIES ON:
Ilse Jacobsen Hornbaek Tulip Slip-On
For women
When I’m feeling like a pop of color, I reach for my adorable yellow Ilse Jacobsen Tulip Slip-Ons!
Ilse Jacobsen is a brand that’s loved by women who prioritize functionality but don’t want to sacrifice style. These cute little slip-ons are made from high-quality leather, which makes them incredibly breathable and comfortable to wear all day long.
I first discovered this brand while exploring Santa Barbara, CA years ago. While strolling through town, I randomly popped into one of those mom-and-pop shoe stores. I saw the array of colors these shoes came in and knew I NEEDED a pair.
These days, I have em in multiple colors. Honestly, I’m blown away every time I slip these on — it feels like a soft hug along the top of your foot, while the bottom of your foot is like walking on clouds.
And the best part? There’s just about every color of the rainbow available, so you can find a pair that matches your style perfectly. At the time of writing, these shoes come in at least 50 different colors and patterns.
The upper is made of recycled microfiber with a decorative laser cut pattern attached to their iconic Tulip outsole, made of natural and recycled rubber, with match-colored recycled thread, using no glue.
If you’re not feeling the shape of these shoes, there are also ones that look more like sneakers which also come in a million cute colors!
Highlights:
- Great for pairing with pants, leggings, and dresses
- Super breathable so sweat won’t get trapped on your feet
- Comes in a huge variety of colors and patterns to match your style
Birkenstock Mayari Sandal
For women
Birkenstock is a brand that’s been around for ages and is loved by people worldwide who prioritize function, foot health, and comfort when it comes to shoes. Now, I know when you think of Birkenstock, you might picture those “Jesus” sandals that your dad used to wear, but let me tell you, the Birkenstock Mayari Sandals are way cuter than that!
These sandals are perfect for summer travel because they’re made of high-quality leather that’s both supportive and comfortable. If you’re someone who can’t wear flip-flops due to their lack of support, then you’ll love the Mayari Sandals.
They have a contoured footbed that conforms to the shape of your foot, providing you with the support you need to walk around all day without any discomfort. I have been able to walk 10+ miles on these in one day with no foot pain afterward. They’re incredible and I’m already on my second pair (my first pair lasted me 5 years until the strap broke).
Not only are these sandals functional, but they’re also stylish (well, at least to people who can appreciate the look of Birks). The leather straps are delicate and feminine, making them perfect for dressing up or down. You can wear them with a cute sundress or a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.
Highlights:
- Great for warm summer days and days at the beach
- Adjustable buckles on both straps personalize the fit
- Original Birkenstock footbeds feature soft suede leather topsoles; cork/latex blend midsoles offer pronounced arch support and deep heel cups
- Footbeds mold and shape to your feet over time
- Lightweight and flexible EVA outsoles absorb shock
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Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal
Available for women
The Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal is perfect for travel, especially on sunny days when you want to wear a sundress! This sandal is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and features a wedge heel that adds a bit of height without sacrificing comfort.
The sandal is designed with a contoured footbed that provides excellent arch support and cushioning, which can help alleviate foot pain and discomfort. This makes the shoe a great choice for long walks and extended periods of standing.
In addition to its foot health benefits, the Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal is also stylish and versatile. It comes in a dozen (or more) variations of colors and materials, including leather and suede, so it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
People also love it for its slip-resistant sole, which can help prevent slips and falls on wet or slippery surfaces!
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Allbirds Tree Runners
Available for both men and women
Since I have the Allbirds Wool Pipers, I actually don’t personally own a pair of Tree Runners, but I know tons of friends who swear by these minimalistic walking shoes!
Just like the Pipers, the Tree Runners are made from a unique blend of sustainable materials, including eucalyptus tree fiber and sugarcane, which makes them super soft and breathable. They’re perfect for walking around all day, whether you’re exploring a new city or hiking a trail.
They’re also great for warmer weather, thanks to their lightweight and breathable design. You won’t have to worry about your feet getting sweaty or uncomfortable, even on the hottest days. You can even wear them without socks if you like! And as with all Allbirds, they’re machine washable (which is truly one of the best features about this brand).
If you’re a rather picky person, you’ll love the fact that they come in a huge range of colors that are always rotating across seasons.
They’re lightweight and packable, so they won’t take up much space in your luggage either.
Highlights:
- Best For: Walking, warmer weather, everyday wear
- Lightweight, breathable eucalyptus fiber provides next-level comfort
- Cushioned midsole gives wear-all-day support
- Machine-washable materials keep shoes looking like new
- Lightweight and packable, so they won’t take up much space in your luggage
CHECK THEM OUT ON:
HONORABLE MENTIONS (TOO CUTE TO NOT MENTION)
If you’ve made it all the way to the bottom, congrats–I’m proud of you. Most people don’t read these days. Your prize: my honorable mentions list! Shoes that are cute as heck and worth considering to knock out your travel look.
While I don’t think I’ll be putting 20k steps on these shoes, I will bring them on my travels from time to time if the outfit calls for it!
I’d say the shoes below are comfortable enough to put 5,000 to 8,000 steps in (which is still quite a bit–around 2-3 miles total!).
Everlane Glove Boot – I love how these boots make any outfit 10x more sophisticated. Honestly, they feel like wearing socks with a heel. I have ’em in black and brown!
G.H.BASS Mary Jane Fisherman Loafers – I wear these with socks, which really help extend overall wear time (since the socks eliminate the dreaded blistering heel issue). I have the ones in black!
Oofos Slides – Okay, it’s not that I won’t wear these all day (because I do at home… when I’m inside my house), it’s that they’re way too casual to be worn in public all day long. I usually bring these along for beach days and in-hotel use.
WALKING SHOES FEATURED IN THIS POST:
Looking for more travel gear and travel packing tips? You may want to check out these posts while you’re at it!
- 8 Smarter Tips For Packing Shoes For Travel
- 10 Best Carry-On Travel Bags For Your Next Trip
- 40 Travel Essentials for Hot Weather and Tropical Climates
- 9 Best Women’s Travel Vests For Style, Safety And Smarter Travel
- The Ultimate Car Camping Packing List: 35 Must-Have Items
- My Top 15 Hiking and Camping Essentials (With Product Recommendations!)
- 10 Things You’ll Need To Prepare Before An Extended Trip
