There is an art to dressing for travel. It's all about finding the perfect balance of looking put together while feeling completely unconfined. Whether you're taking a red-eye flight or hitting the open road, achieving this balance sets you up for success when you reach whatever your destination may be. So, let's start with the foundation: your shoes.
When selecting your travel shoe, you will want to consider support and style. Most likely, your trips are going to involve quite a bit of walking. Or sprinting to the gate if you're one of those folks who still working on traveling time management (*raises hand*). Therefore, make sure the shoe you choose has ample cushion and stability. Then, think about your next destination. Do you go from the plane to the hotel gym? Pick up a pair of sneakers. Are you going straight from the train to the office? Go for a soft leather pair that still has structure. From suede kicks to streamlined loafers, there's a shoe for every type of traveler out there.
Best Suede Sneakers
Golden Goose Soul Star Sneakers
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Best Leather Sneakers
Thousand Fell Lace Up Sneakers
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Best Retro Shoe
Todd Snyder Tuscan Low Profile Sneakers
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Ready to choose the companion to join you on your next adventure? Check out the 10 best travel shoes right here.
Best Lightweight Sneakers
Lululemon Cityverse Sneakers
Best Lightweight Sneakers
Lululemon Cityverse Sneakers
Pros
Comes with two different laces
Cupped rubber outsole increases traction
Cons
Sells out quickly
The white colorway gets dirty easily
Lululemon recently entered the men's footwear world, and it did so with a bang. We have always been fans of the brand's clothing (we're looking at you, ABC pants), so we had high expectations for the sneakers. And let us tell you this, they did not disappoint. Extremely lightweight yet still supportive, you won't want to take this pair off.
Sizes | 7–14 |
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Colors | 2 |
Pros
Simple lace fastening
Clarks Original fobs come attached
Cons
Suede requires maintenance
Complaints of colors being slightly different than expected
The Desert Boot goes way back. Like 1950s back. There's a reason the minimalist suede design is still alive and kicking today, and it's called craftsmanship. From the sand suede upper to the breathable leather lining, this attention to detail is impeccable. Plus, when you get where you're going, they can dress up or down with ease.
Sizes | 7–15 |
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Colors | 7 |
Best Suede Sneakers
Golden Goose Soul Star Sneakers
Best Suede Sneakers
Golden Goose Soul Star Sneakers
Pros
Subtle branding for quiet luxury
Loose, lace-up vamp for easy on and off
Cons
Suede needs more maintenance
More expensive end of sneakers
These days, it seems like Golden Goose has a sneaker for almost every occasion. Our favorite for traveling are the Soul Stars, which come in this suede low-top iteration that teeters at the intersection of chic and casual. The scuffed soles create the brand's signature worn-in look that makes these feel like they've been in your shoe rotation forever.
Sizes | 8–13 |
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Colors | 3 |
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Best Leather Sneakers
Thousand Fell Lace Up Sneakers
Best Leather Sneakers
Thousand Fell Lace Up Sneakers
Pros
Stain proof design
Odor resistant
Cons
Require a little break in period
Creases in the front with wear
This pair isn't just comfortable and breathable, but it's entirely recyclable. It's so recyclable, in fact, that you even get credits if you follow the brand's trade-in program. With structural details made from coconut, sugarcane, and palm, it's better for the environment. And with a sleek, white upper that goes with nearly anything, it's better for your travel wardrobe, too.
Sizes | 8–13 |
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Colors | 14 |
Pros
Available in waterproof iteration
Made with antimicrobial mesh
Cons
The athletic design makes them less versatile
Only come in one width
Specifically made for travel and everyday wear, On's beloved sneakers have been re-engineered with 44 percent recycled content for a more eco-minded design. Zero-Gravity foam delivers ample cushion, and a molded heel keeps your foot secure.
Sizes | 7–14 |
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Colors | 12 |
Best Business-Casual Loafer
Cole Haan Pinch Weekender Penny Loafers
Best Business-Casual Loafer
Cole Haan Pinch Weekender Penny Loafers
Pros
Enhanced traction in sole design
Can wear for work or leisure
Cons
Not as much arch support
Less stability
Whether you're headed on a business trip or merely prefer a more sophisticated look, you can't go wrong with Cole Haan's loafers. The premium leather and classic styling create a slip-on that feels truly timeless.
Sizes | 7–13 |
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Colors | 2 |
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Pros
Large range of sizes
Perforations on toe for breathability
Cons
White style gets dirty easier
Chunkier silhouette is less versatile
There's a reason why Air Forces have been a wardrobe staple since 1982. The simple leather look, iconic Swoosh, and subtle cushioning make this pair a no-brainer.
Sizes | 6–18 |
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Colors | 4 |
Pros
Cushioned midsole provides comfort
Water-resistant leather
Cons
Leather requires some maintenance
Not as practical for traveling to warmer locations
If you don't have TSA Pre, then you understand the pain of having to remove your shoes for security. Instead of fuddling with the laces of your sneakers, opt for a pair of Chelsea boots, from Blundstone in particular. The elastic side coupled with heel and front tabs will help you breeze through security.
Sizes | 4–14 |
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Colors | 8 |
Best Retro Shoe
Todd Snyder Tuscan Low Profile Sneakers
Best Retro Shoe
Todd Snyder Tuscan Low Profile Sneakers
Pros
Neutral color ways are easier to style
Leather footbed for comfort
Cons
Leather and suede need more maintenance
On the pricier side
Todd Snyder's vintage-inspired sneakers take on a mixed media craftsmanship that juxtaposes two-tones of leather and suede. Throw on a some simple slacks with the low-profile silhouette for an effortless fit.
Sizes | 8–13 |
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Colors | 3 |
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Pros
Washable design
Large range of sizes and colors
Cons
Complaints about breathability
Less supportive
Extremely flexible and durable, this Rothy's loafer is a fan favorite. Knit from about 21 plastic bottles, sustainability is at the core of the design. The raised nubs on the outsoles produce extra grip to combat those slippery airport floors.
Sizes | 7–16 |
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Colors | 11 |