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!
If you’re ready to level up your travel shoe game, keep reading because these shoes are stylish, functional, comfortable, and won’t let you down when you’re far away from home!
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10 Best Walking Shoes For Travel (That Are Actually Cute)
Table of Contents
Allbirds Wool Pipers
Available for both men and women
Had Allbirds not come out with a bunch of other cute styles, they would not be on this list and I would not have personally purchased a pair for myself. I’m not the biggest fan of how their original model looked (still looked a whole lot like a running shoe — something I was trying to get away from), but I am a HUGE fan of the Wool Pipers!
They remind me a lot of the classic Keds, with their flat soles that instantly give them ‘casual’ vibes!
The Wool Pipers feature a more streamlined silhouette than the Runners, with a lower profile and less bulk, making them perfect for pairing with a wide range of outfits. You can wear them with crew socks, no-show socks, or no socks — they’ll look great on your feet either way!
Their wide laces also add a touch of sophistication to the design, with flat laces that wrap around the shoe and a subtle Allbirds logo on the tongue. This design element adds a touch of elegance to the shoe, making them perfect for dressing up or down!
In addition to their stylish design, the Pipers are made from the same high-quality, sustainable materials as the Wool Runners, including merino wool and recycled polyester. This means that they are just as comfortable, breathable, and eco-friendly as the Runners, while also being more versatile and stylish.
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling to extremely hot/humid destinations, then the Tree Piper version may be a better fit — they’re made with cooling eucalyptus tree fiber.
Highlights:
- Soft and cozy, wear-with-everything classic style
- Made with premium ZQ Merino wool
- Cushioned midsole gives wear-all-day support
- Lightweight and packable, so they are perfect for travel
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 blog posts, chances are you’ve probably come across them. 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 ECCO, ECCO is a brand that’s loved by nurses and other professionals who need to be on their feet all day. 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 they’re 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
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!
It also meets certain safety standards, such as slip resistance, which makes it a good choice for people who need to be extra wary of slip and fall accidents.
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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.
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!
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.
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.
Their shoes feature generous cushioning and a unique midsole geometry that provides a plush, pillowy feel underfoot. This design not only gives you a comfortable experience but also helps to reduce the impact on your joints during high-impact activities like walking, running, and hiking.
HOKA ONE ONE has truly mastered the art of combining performance and comfort, making their shoes a reliable choice for anyone looking to tackle a day of walking or running with ease. Whether you’re hitting the pavement, exploring the trails, or spending a day at Disneyland, HOKA shoes are there to provide that extra cushion and support you need to make the most of your adventures.
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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. You can see their complete collection on REI here!
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
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 flats are made from high-quality leather, which makes them incredibly breathable and comfortable to wear all day long.
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, there are at least 50 different colors and patterns that these shoes come in!
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. 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.
Overall, the Birkenstock Mayari Sandals are a great choice for anyone who wants a comfortable and supportive sandal that doesn’t sacrifice on style. So, if you’re planning on doing some hot summer travel where a lot of walking is required of you, be sure to pack a pair of these sandals in your suitcase!
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
Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal
Available for women
The Naot Kayla Wedge Sandal is a comfortable and stylish shoe that is perfect for travel, especially on sunny days when you want to wear a sundress! This sandal features a wedge heel that adds a bit of height without sacrificing comfort, making it a great choice for prolonged walking and sightseeing.
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!
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, so you can easily find a color combo that you can pair with just about any outfit. They’re perfect for casual wear, but can also be dressed up with a pair of chinos or a summer dress.
They’re lightweight and packable, so they won’t take up much space in your luggage. And because they’re so comfortable, you can wear them all day without worrying about sore feet.
When it comes to travel, the Allbirds Tree Runners (or the Wool Pipers) are a must-have!
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
Allbirds Tree Breezers
For women
I had the chance to try out the Allbirds Tree Breezers recently and I can say they are legit and the perfect pair of flats to add to your travel arsenal! Let me tell you why.
I’m typically not a flats kind of person — my feet are weird and I typically like a lot of support if I’m going to walk a lot. Plus they love to sweat inside of shoes. I thought I was going to give up on flats for the rest of my life til I tried these babies!
First of all, these shoes are incredibly comfortable. They’re made from a unique blend of sustainable materials, including eucalyptus tree fiber and sugarcane, which makes them incredibly soft, bouncy, and breathable. You won’t have to worry about your feet getting sweaty, stinky, or uncomfortable during a long day of exploring. Forget about that nightmare!
Secondly, they’re super lightweight and packable, which makes them perfect for travel. They won’t take up much space in your luggage, and they’re easy to slip on and off at airport security checkpoints. Plus, they come in a range of neutral colors, so they’ll match with just about anything in your travel wardrobe.
But the best part? They’re machine washable! That’s right, you can throw them in the washing machine and they’ll come out looking as good as new. This is a game-changer for travelers who want to pack light and not worry about dirty shoes.
Highlights:
- Pairs wonderfully with dresses, jeans, or wide-flare pants
- Lightweight, breathable eucalyptus fiber provides next-level comfort
- Silky-smooth material
- Ribbed collar for a perfect fit
- Ultra lightweight and packable, so they won’t take up much space in your luggage
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
