Traveling is enjoyable if you plan everything well. You've got your travel documents in order, booked great hotels, and bought tickets to exciting attractions. But there's more to consider. No matter where you're headed, if you're not dressed comfortably, your experience might not be as enjoyable.
Comfort should always be a priority. One key to a comfortable trip is having high-quality travel shoes. While it's nice to look good in photos, it's not worth ending up with sore feet. This doesn't mean you should ignore style completely, but balance it with comfort.
So, what makes a good travel shoe? We’re here to help you figure it out. In this guide, we'll explore the importance of having stylish and functional shoes for your trips. Keep reading for tips on picking the right pair and some of our top recommendations.
How to Choose Travel Shoes?
You might have once seen a situation where a friend or family member ends up buying flimsy flip-flops with no cushioning from a gift shop because they forgot to pack proper sandals for a beach trip.
Or maybe you've had to buy expensive tennis shoes after hours of walking in a theme park because your own shoes weren't supportive enough and left your feet aching.
Choosing supportive travel shoes before your trip can make a big difference. You'll enjoy your trip more without worrying about foot pain, and you'll save money and time by not needing to buy emergency footwear.
Here are the key things you will need to take into consideration:
- Your Comfort
When it comes to choosing travel shoes, comfort should always come first. No matter how stylish a shoe looks, if it isn't comfortable, it's not the right choice. This is especially important when selecting shoes for travel.
An uncomfortable shoe can cause a small blister that ruins your entire trip. The pain and hassle aren't worth it, no matter how stylish the shoes might be.
Traveling isn't just about flights and train rides; it often involves walking long distances and climbing countless stairs.
Avoid shoes that rub, pinch, or don't fit properly, as they can lead to sore feet and blisters, which can really put a damper on your enjoyment of the day.
When you're wearing comfortable shoes, you won't even have to think about them. But if they're uncomfortable or too tight, you'll find yourself constantly reminded of your discomfort, which can distract from your experience.
Our advice is to really understand what makes your feet feel good and what causes discomfort. Take note of any foot conditions you have and which areas of your feet tend to hurt.
Consider if you need more cushioning, better arch support, or a wider toe box to prevent your toes from squishing up.
Pay attention to even the smallest signs of discomfort and don't compromise on comfort when choosing shoes.
Remember, when you're traveling, your shoes should be the least of your worries. Otherwise, you'll always remember the trip for the sore and painful feet.
If comfort is a priority for you, especially if you'll be active for long periods, choose a comfortable travel shoe that provides the support you need.
A reliable athletic sneaker is a great choice, particularly if you'll be hiking or walking long distances.
- Its Functionality
Imagine you find the perfect shoes—they're super comfy, fit like a dream, and allow you to move with your feet flawlessly. But, they're not waterproof, and you're off to a place where it rains a lot.
No matter how great they are, these shoes just won't cut it. That's why it's smart to go for waterproof shoes when you're traveling, especially if you're unsure about the weather.
Similarly, getting shoes that are super breathable might not be the best idea if you're heading somewhere freezing. In situations like that, your feet won't be happy.
That's why it's important to pick shoes based on where you're going and what you'll be doing there.
Start by checking out the weather where you're headed. Is it going to be hot, cold, or rainy? Then, find shoes that match that weather.
If it's going to be humid, go for shoes that let your feet breathe. Don't just grab any random pair—think about how well they'll work for where you're going.
Also, think about the activities you'll be doing. Are you planning to hike, hang out at the beach, or do some water sports? It's hard to find one pair of shoes that does everything perfectly, so consider getting a couple of pairs if you can.
For hiking, you'll need sturdy boots that can take a beating. If you're going to be walking a lot in the city, pick shoes that give good support and cushioning, like athletic or walking shoes.
Casual sneakers or boots are great for everyday exploring. And if you're dressing up a bit, look for comfy dress shoes with cushioned insoles.
If you're heading to the beach or doing water stuff, you'll want shoes that dry fast and protect your feet from rough ground. Water shoes or sandals with strong soles and straps are the way to go.
- Weight and space
When you're picking out shoes for your travels, think about how much they weigh. Heavy, bulky shoes aren't just hard to carry around—they're also not too easy on the eyes. Lighter shoes, on the other hand, have a certain charm and make your trip a lot more comfortable.
Think about it: when you're flying, there's always a limit on how much stuff you can bring. So, it's smart to choose shoes that won't hog up all your space.
Lighter shoes mean you can pack more pairs without going over your luggage limit. Plus, they won't make a disturbance as you walk, drawing unwanted attention.
And let's not forget about the size of your shoes. You can't change their size, but you can choose ones that squish down easily.
This means you'll have more room in your bag for other stuff. It's like picking shoes that can bend a bit without losing their shape—handy when you're trying to pack light.
Remember, the less luggage you have, the fewer shoes you can bring. If you're sticking to a backpack, you'll probably only have space for a couple of pairs—one in your bag and one on your feet.
So, when you're shoe shopping for your trip, look for ones that you can easily tuck into your bag without causing a fuss. It's all about finding shoes that strike the right balance between comfort, style, and practicality for your adventure.
- Longevity and Durability
When picking out travel shoes, it's super important to think about how long they'll last and how much they'll cost you. Imagine being out exploring a desert and your shoes falling apart—it's a situation you definitely want to avoid.
So, always go for shoes made from strong materials with solid stitching. Sure, you might be tempted to grab a cheap pair for just this trip, but trust me, it could end up costing you more in the long run.
Think about it: if your shoes wear out during your adventure, you'll have to fork out for a new pair unexpectedly.
Instead, check out shoes that are built to last. Look for ones with good grip, flexibility, and maybe even waterproofing, depending on where you're headed. Reading reviews can give you a good idea of how durable the shoes are.
You don't have to spend a fortune on travel shoes, but remember, they're not just any shoes—they can really make or break your trip.
By shopping smart, you can find travel shoes that will last for tons of adventures, all without spending a fortune.
Shoes that Are Comfortable for Traveling
Here are two traveling shoe recommendations I have experience with:
1 Waterproof Travel Shoes
What makes it special is their clever design with three layers. The first layer keeps your feet dry and healthy, while the next one, made of special wool, keeps them cool.
Underneath, there's more cushioning to stop your feet from getting sweaty and uncomfortable. And the bottom of the shoe? It's got a special grip to stop you from slipping, even if you're in a rush.
But here's the best part—they're super lightweight despite having all those layers. That means you can pack them for your trip without worrying about them taking up too much space or weighing down your bag.
2 Sneaker
The synthetic outsole ensures reliable traction, safeguarding you against unexpected slips and impacts. Plus, despite its remarkable qualities, this shoe remains remarkably lightweight, ensuring you can stride through your day without the burden of weary feet slowing you down.
