Choosing the right footwear is crucial for any journey. The best travel shoes for women are more than just an accessory; they are an essential component for enjoying your adventures to the fullest. Imagine exploring a new city, wandering through historical sites, or hiking scenic trails – all while your feet remain comfortable and supported. The last thing you want to worry about when you’re on the go is foot pain or blisters. That’s why investing in the best travel shoes for women is paramount.
Traveler editors, with years of globetrotting experience, understand the importance of reliable footwear. They’ve personally tested countless pairs across diverse destinations and activities. This guide compiles their top recommendations for the Best Travel Shoes Women can rely on, ensuring comfort, style, and practicality are all seamlessly combined. From versatile sneakers to elegant flats, durable boots to breezy sandals, discover the perfect pair to accompany you on your next adventure.
Why Comfortable Travel Shoes are Essential
Comfortable travel shoes are the unsung heroes of any successful trip. They are the foundation upon which you build your travel experiences, enabling you to explore, discover, and enjoy without the distraction of foot discomfort. Think about it: travel often involves extensive walking, whether you’re navigating bustling airports, exploring cobblestone streets, or standing for hours in museums. The wrong shoes can quickly turn a dream vacation into a painful ordeal, hindering your ability to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Beyond comfort, the best travel shoes for women offer essential support, cushioning your feet against hard surfaces and absorbing impact with every step. This is particularly important when you’re on your feet for extended periods. Furthermore, versatility is key. Packing light is a common travel goal, and versatile travel shoes can seamlessly transition from day-time sightseeing to evening dinners, saving precious luggage space and ensuring you’re prepared for various occasions. Ultimately, comfortable and supportive travel shoes are an investment in your overall travel experience, allowing you to focus on creating memories rather than battling foot pain.
Key Features to Look for in Travel Shoes
Selecting the best travel shoes for women involves considering several key features to ensure they meet the demands of travel and personal preferences.
- Comfort: This is paramount. Look for shoes with ample cushioning, arch support, and a comfortable fit right out of the box, minimizing break-in time and potential discomfort on your trip.
- Support: Adequate support, particularly in the arch and heel, is crucial for long days of walking. Good support helps prevent foot fatigue and injuries, allowing you to explore for longer without pain.
- Versatility: Choose shoes that can adapt to different activities and settings. Versatile travel shoes should be suitable for walking, light hiking, and even more formal occasions if needed, minimizing the number of pairs you need to pack.
- Style: While comfort is king, style is still important. The best travel shoes for women come in various styles to complement your travel wardrobe, allowing you to look and feel good while exploring. Consider neutral colors for maximum versatility or a pop of color to express your personal style.
- Packability: Travel shoes should ideally be lightweight and relatively compact to save space and weight in your luggage. Some materials are more packable than others; for instance, flats and some sneakers are easier to pack than bulky boots.
- Weather-Appropriateness: Consider the climate of your destination. If you’re traveling to a rainy or cold location, waterproof or water-resistant shoes are essential. For warm climates, breathable materials and sandals might be more suitable.
By prioritizing these features, you can confidently select travel shoes that will keep your feet happy and comfortable, no matter where your adventures take you.
Top Travel Shoe Picks for Women
To simplify your search for the perfect travel companion for your feet, we’ve curated a selection of top-rated travel shoes for women, categorized by style to suit various needs and preferences.
Boots
Boots are excellent travel shoes, especially for cooler climates or destinations that involve light hiking or uneven terrains. They offer more ankle support and protection than sneakers or sandals, making them ideal for exploring cities in the fall or winter, or venturing into nature trails. The best travel boots for women combine durability, comfort, and style, ensuring you’re prepared for both urban and outdoor adventures.
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots
Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots
Susie Plotkin, from Condé Nast’s global email team, enthusiastically endorses these platform boots as “the perfect shoe.” Having owned them for over three and a half years, she’s taken them on countless trips, proving their durability and versatility. “My boyfriend lives in Switzerland, and they’re my go-to shoe for sightseeing around Zurich. I’ve spent 12 hours exploring Venice on foot in them, and they are a regular choice for walking around Brooklyn. They’re a bit heavy, but incredibly comfortable and easy to slip on and off.” The platform sole adds a stylish edge while providing extra cushioning for long walks.
Key features: Pull-on style for convenience, durable cemented sole, platform for added height and comfort.
Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots
Megan Spurrell, Associate articles director, recommends Vagabond’s lug sole boots, particularly styles with a wider toe box for enhanced comfort during extensive walking. These Chelsea boots are ideal for city trips, offering a balance of style and practicality. While they are on the bulkier side, their robustness and comfort make them worthwhile, and wearing them through airport security can help save suitcase space. Their solid traction is beneficial for navigating various urban terrains.
Key features: Pull-on design, leather upper for durability and style, solid traction lug sole for stability.
Casual Sneakers
Casual sneakers are arguably the most versatile and popular choice for travel shoes for women. They strike a perfect balance between comfort, style, and practicality, making them suitable for a wide range of travel activities, from city exploration to light hikes. The best casual travel sneakers for women are lightweight, supportive, and stylish enough to pair with various outfits.
Adidas Samba OG sneaker
Adidas Sambas, a classic design dating back to 1950, have recently experienced a significant resurgence in street style. Editorial assistant Kat Chen highly recommends them, stating, “They are my ride or die. I got this newest pair last summer, but the ones I had before lasted a decade of wear. These are the shoes that have been with me through so much.” Their timeless design and comfortable fit make them excellent for everyday wear and travel, proving their enduring appeal and practicality as reliable travel sneakers.
Key features: Lace-up closure for a secure fit, leather upper for durability, rubber outsole for grip, available in half sizes for a more precise fit.
Kizik Milan sneaker
Commerce writer Paris Wilson is a new but enthusiastic convert to Kizik sneakers, appreciating the hands-free design of the Milan style. These sneakers offer the look of a traditional sneaker with the convenience of a slip-on, ideal for travelers who value ease and efficiency. “The Milan has a very stylish retro design,” Wilson notes. “I have the Naval Academy colorway, which is easy to coordinate with outfits. The shoe comes in both nylon and leather; I chose nylon for breathability during summer, but I plan to get a leather pair for cooler weather. I’ve worn them for work, all around New York City and New Jersey, and recently to Maine. Thanks to the ultra-cushioned foam insoles, my feet have been consistently comfortable.”
Key features: Hands-free slip-on design for ease of use, half sizes available, removable insoles for customization, cushioned foam midsole for all-day comfort.
New Balance 574 Core sneaker
New Balance sneakers have made a notable comeback, and the 574 Core style is a favorite of commerce editor Meaghan Kenny. She describes them as “just as comfortable as they are cool. I’ve owned them for about three years, and they’ve accompanied me on weekend trips walking around Boston, airport journeys, and daily commutes. They strike a perfect balance between sporty and stylish—they remain comfortable after hours of walking, and the neutral color easily matches various outfits in my carry-on. Aside from my classic white sneakers, these are my most frequently worn shoes. Amazingly, despite being light-colored, they have stayed clean and in excellent condition.”
Key features: Half sizes and wide sizes available for optimal fit, suede and mesh upper for breathability and durability.
Adidas Stan Smith sneaker
The Adidas Stan Smith has successfully transitioned from a tennis shoe to a streetwear icon, and for good reason: exceptional comfort. Associate editor Matt Ortile, a long-time fan for at least eight years, explains, “I buy a new pair roughly every 1.5 years and alternate between similar pairs.” For short trips with limited packing space, these sneakers are incredibly versatile. “They can handle everything from sightseeing to light hikes, are easy to slip on and off at airport security, and maintain a chic look without sacrificing any comfort.” Ortile has traveled extensively with them, including to Paris, AlUla in Saudi Arabia, and Palau.
Key features: Half sizes available, lace closure for a secure fit, OrthoLite liner for temperature regulation and added comfort.
Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star low stop sneaker
Recommended by Brie Schwartz, commerce director at Glamour and Teen Vogue, this playful iteration of the classic Converse low-top adds a fun touch to travel attire. These sneakers are lightweight due to their canvas upper, and the vulcanized rubber sole provides reliable traction. Schwartz recently wore them on a trip to Disney, highlighting their comfort for long days of walking. Their iconic design with the playful heart logo adds a touch of personality to your travel ensemble.
Key features: Lightweight canvas upper for breathability, vulcanized rubber sole for solid traction.
Athletic Shoes
Athletic shoes are designed for performance and endurance, making them superb travel shoes for women who prioritize comfort and plan to engage in active pursuits during their trips, such as hiking, long walks, or workouts. The best athletic travel shoes combine advanced cushioning technology with lightweight designs to keep your feet comfortable and supported, no matter the activity level.
Hoka Clifton 9 sneaker
Hoka sneakers have earned their hype, according to Kenny. “I initially got these Clifton 9s for light runs and workouts, but they’ve become my most-worn walking shoes as well. Despite their thick sole, which might seem bulky, the extra cushioning makes them incredibly comfortable for hours of walking, and they are surprisingly lightweight. They even fit well in my weekender bag’s shoe compartment without weighing it down. I’ve worn them hiking in the Poconos, shopping in Montauk, and moving apartments—all days exceeding 10,000 steps. Supportive, comfortable, and versatile, they are a must-pack for any trip.”
Key features: Half sizes and wide sizes available, optional Gore-Tex version for waterproofness, laces made with recycled materials, signature Hoka cushioning for maximum comfort.
Salomon Speedcross 6
Associate editor Charlie Hobbs wears Salomon Speedcross 6 shoes almost everywhere: “To the gym, to the park, even to raves—I sometimes forget I own other shoes. They are incredibly comfortable and easy to use, with a pull cord for securing them instead of traditional laces.” Their exceptional comfort and convenient closure system make them ideal for travelers who value ease and performance, perfect for both active days and casual wear.
Key features: Half sizes and wide sizes available, optional Gore-Tex version, lightweight design at 10.5 ounces, Quicklace system for easy and secure adjustments.
Hoka Kawana sneaker
Hoka’s popularity is evident in exercise classes and marathons, and the Kawana style is a favorite of Glamour‘s senior commerce editor, Jenifer Calle. “I wore these sneakers in San Antonio last year, and they were a lifesaver for my feet. Despite the Texas heat, my feet never felt tired or sweaty, thanks to their bouncy and breathable design.” These sneakers are particularly beneficial for warm climates and long walking days, offering both cushioning and ventilation.
Key features: Half sizes available, pull tab at the heel for easy on and off, lightweight design at 8.9 ounces, Hoka cushioning for comfort and support.
On Cloudmonster sneaker
On Cloudmonster sneaker
Also recommended by Calle, On Cloudmonster sneakers feature the brand’s thickest CloudTec layer, providing superior cushioning and energy return, as well as reducing muscle fatigue. “I’m not a runner by any means, but I enjoy a steady three-mile jog. Switching to On shoes last year was a revelation—I didn’t know my feet could feel so relieved while running. The rocker bottoms feel like they give me an extra push, and I’m never going back to minimalist sneakers.” These shoes are ideal for travelers who enjoy running or require maximum cushioning for all-day comfort.
Key features: Half sizes available, maximum cushioning in the On line, engineered for maximum energy return, rocker bottom sole to aid in forward motion.
Merrell Moab 3 hiking shoe
The Merrell Moab 3 is renowned as the most popular hiking shoe globally, with over 25 million pairs sold since its introduction 15 years ago. One editor tested the latest third-generation model during a trip to Iceland. “I brought them on a trip to Iceland, involving moderate hikes and city walks on wet roads; the shoe performed well in both situations. They offer excellent traction, a comfortable fit, and don’t take up much space in my carry-on—I see why they are so popular.” Glamour commerce writer Jake Smith also praises them: “I’ve worn them for four years, and while great for hiking, I particularly love them as walking shoes.”
Key features: Half and wide sizes available, designed for rugged trails, protective toe cap for added durability.
Slip-ons
Slip-on shoes are the epitome of convenience and comfort, making them excellent travel shoes for women who value ease of wear and a relaxed style. They are perfect for navigating airports, quick errands, or situations where you need to easily take your shoes on and off. The best slip-on travel shoes offer good cushioning and support, despite their laceless design.
Kane Revive active recovery shoe
Emma McDonald, from Condé Nast’s digital marketing team, recommends Kane Revive recovery shoes. “I’ve had them for about a year and wear them all day at my standing desk and while running errands.” Made from Brazilian sugarcane, these cushioned shoes feature raised footbed nodes designed to stimulate blood flow in key pressure points on the sole, ideal for recovery and all-day comfort. Their easy-to-clean and quick-drying nature adds to their practicality for travel.
Key features: Quick-drying material, easy to clean, grippy soles for enhanced traction, cushioned footbed with massaging nodes.
SeaVees Bodega clog
Glamour‘s commerce editor Malia Griggs is a fan of SeaVees clogs. “I initially thought they’d be just rain boots, but I wear them constantly because they’re easy to slip on, comfortable, and perfect for drizzly days in the city. This summer, I took them to the North Carolina mountains as they are great plane shoes—easy to remove at security—and durable and waterproof enough for light trail walks. I appreciate that they have enough of a heel backing to prevent them from slipping off while walking.” Their versatility makes them suitable for various travel scenarios, from city commutes to light outdoor activities.
Key features: Memory foam footbed for enhanced comfort, partially made with recycled materials, waterproof design ideal for wet conditions.
Sabah Slip-ons
These colorful Sabah slip-ons are highly recommended by articles director Lale Arikoglu, who considers them “a permanent fixture on my packing list” for years. Available in numerous colors and materials, they are handcrafted by artisans in Gaziantep. “The more I wear them, the better they fit, molding to my feet like a glove—almost custom-made.” Their luxurious comfort and handcrafted quality make them a stylish and comfortable choice for travel.
Key features: Handmade construction, soft leather lining, replaceable rubber outsole for longevity.
Sandals
Sandals are indispensable travel shoes for women traveling to warm destinations or during summer months. They offer breathability and comfort in hot weather, perfect for beach vacations, city explorations in warm climates, or casual outings. The best travel sandals for women provide good support and cushioning, despite their open design, ensuring comfort even for extended walking.
Arizona Birko-Flor Birkenstocks
While sandals can sometimes be tricky for prolonged wear, former Traveler editor Sarah Ratner vouches for Birkenstocks Arizona slides. Their suede-covered cork-latex footbed molds to the wearer’s feet over time, providing personalized comfort. Available in a wide array of colors and regular or narrow widths, they can be easily matched with various outfits. Arikoglu also endorses Birkenstocks, particularly the Arizona Big Buckle style: “I am very loyal to my Birkenstocks. I once walked 10 miles in Barcelona in them, and they never caused any rubbing.”
Key features: Cork-latex footbed that conforms to the foot, adjustable straps for a customized fit.
Teva Universal Trail Sandals
Teva sandals inspire lifelong loyalty among their fans. These sandals are exceptionally versatile and practical. “I’ve worn them on light hikes in Arizona, sightseeing in Israel, swimming in rocky reservoirs in Austin, and recently on a multi-city trip through El Salvador,” one editor recounts. The Trail sandals offer enhanced arch support compared to the classic style, making them even more comfortable for both urban and trail environments. Their durability and blister-free comfort have been proven over years of use.
Key features: Adjustable straps for a secure fit, waterproof construction, grippy outsoles for traction, made with recycled materials.
Teva Midform Universal Sandals
Another favorite of Spurrell, these Teva sandals have been a go-to for about four years. While slightly less grippy than the Trail sandals, they remain comfortable for all-day wear. Spurrell frequently wears them to the beach but also for bike rides, long walks, and dinners in New York City, demonstrating their versatility for various travel scenarios. The slight platform adds a touch of style without compromising comfort.
Key features: 1.25″ platform for a subtle lift, quick-dry material, rubber outsole for traction.
Flats
Flats are an elegant and packable footwear option, ideal for women who want to maintain a stylish appearance while traveling without sacrificing comfort. They are perfect for city strolling, museum visits, dinners, and occasions where sneakers might feel too casual. The best travel flats for women are comfortable enough for walking and versatile enough to complement a range of outfits.
Rothy’s The Point II flats
While Rothy’s also offers a classic ballet flat, The Point Flat offers a more sophisticated aesthetic. Available in a wide spectrum of colors, there’s a shade for every traveler and outfit. Made from recycled plastic with minimal production waste, these flats are both eco-friendly and practical. Recent redesigns have enhanced their comfort with a cushier insole and a roomier toe box. Travel writer Terry Ward praises Rothy’s flats: “They instantly elevate any outfit; they are easily packed and retain their shape. Definitely worth the investment—mine have lasted for years.”
Key features: Machine washable for easy cleaning, removable cushioned insole, made from recycled plastic materials.
Conclusion
Choosing the best travel shoes for women is a personal but essential decision. The ideal pair will depend on your destination, planned activities, and personal style preferences. However, prioritizing comfort, support, and versatility will ensure your feet remain happy and you can fully enjoy every moment of your travel adventures. Whether you opt for the rugged durability of boots, the everyday practicality of sneakers, the breezy freedom of sandals, the convenience of slip-ons, or the sleek elegance of flats, investing in quality travel shoes is an investment in a more enjoyable and memorable travel experience.
