How I Choose Travel Shoes

MỤC LỤC

Travel shoes are one of those things I used to overthink and underpack. I’d bring too many options — sneakers for exploring, loafers for dinners, slides for the hotel — and still end up with sore feet or wet socks somewhere in between. Living in New York, where walking is a daily sport, eventually taught me what really matters: comfort, durability, and a bit of versatility.

This is how I decide which pair actually earns a spot in my suitcase, whether it’s a weekend upstate or a flight across the Atlantic.

First Impressions Matter: Comfort Comes First

Before looks or brand, I always test how a shoe feels after ten minutes of walking — not just standing. I’ve learned that what feels fine in a store can feel like a medieval torture device after two miles of cobblestones.

For me, the perfect travel shoe has a cushioned insole, some arch support, and a bit of flexibility in the sole. Rigid soles might look stylish, but they punish your feet after a day of sightseeing. I’m partial to sneakers like the Nike Killshot 2 or New Balance 574 — they’re lightweight, breathable, and look decent enough for a casual dinner.

Real-World Use: Weather and Terrain Count

No shoe is good everywhere. If I’m heading somewhere rainy or coastal, I pick something with a rubber sole and a bit of waterproofing. Leather sneakers can handle drizzle but not puddles; that’s when I swap to a pair of Allbirds Mizzles or low-profile boots like Blundstones.

For warmer trips, I go for knit sneakers — they dry fast and don’t suffocate my feet. In places with lots of uneven pavement (think Lisbon or Rome), grip becomes essential. I once learned that the hard way, slipping my way through a rainy alley in smooth-soled loafers. Lesson learned: traction matters more than you think.

Performance & Key Features I Look For

Over time, I’ve boiled it down to a checklist:

Weight: Lighter is better for both walking and packing.
Material: Breathable mesh or leather with minimal seams to prevent blisters.
Support: A midsole with real cushioning (EVA foam works wonders).
Ease: Something I can slip on and off at airport security without a wrestling match.
Neutral Style: Shoes that pair with both jeans and chinos, so I can pack fewer pairs.

I also bring one backup insole — it’s a small hack that can revive tired sneakers mid-trip.

Pros & Cons of My Go-To Travel Shoes

✅ Pros:

Versatile enough for day and night
Great support for long walks
Easy to clean and quick to dry

❌ Cons:

Not formal enough for upscale restaurants
Knit sneakers can get soggy in heavy rain
White soles show dirt fast (especially in city trips)

Value for Money: What’s Worth Paying For

I used to buy budget sneakers for travel and replace them every few trips. Eventually, I realized that a well-built pair — even if it costs more upfront — lasts longer and feels better. A $150 pair that holds up for three years beats three $60 pairs that fall apart after one summer.

If I had to narrow it down: spend where your feet spend their time. Good shoes make every part of the trip better — fewer aches, more energy, and no regrets halfway through a walking tour.

Alternatives & Comparisons

When I want something dressier than sneakers, I pack minimalist leather slip-ons like the Common Projects Achilles or Oliver Cabell Low 1. They blend with almost anything and age beautifully.

For outdoor-heavy trips, trail shoes like the Salomon X Ultra 4 are unbeatable. They’re overkill for cities but perfect for mixed terrain — I wore them hiking near Hudson Valley trails, and they saved me from slipping on wet rock.

If I’m traveling ultralight, I sometimes go with a single pair: black knit sneakers. They handle airport runs, day walks, and casual dinners without needing to change.

My Verdict

Travel shoes should feel invisible — not because they’re unremarkable, but because they never distract you. The right pair just disappears beneath your steps while you focus on the trip itself.

After plenty of trial and error, I’ve learned to value comfort over trends and versatility over excess. My suitcase is lighter, my feet are happier, and I no longer dread walking tours or airport terminals.

In short: pack fewer, choose smarter, and let your shoes do the quiet work of carrying you farther.