Hiking is undoubtedly one of the best ways to discover a new city. On foot, you can see the details that bring a goal to life. If you look in the shops along the Via del Corso in Rome, explore a bamboo grove in Kyoto or meander through the medieval Medina of Fez, you will easily lose track. But there is no faster way to destroy the magic of these fascinating cultural experiences than to wear an uncomfortable pair of shoes.
Best Casual Sneaker: Allbirds Wool Runner
Allbirds’ super fine merino wool sneakers give you the best of both worlds with the feel of a slipper and the look of a sneaker. You get the coziness of wool without the scratches. In addition, the unique “S-curve” of the outsole has been developed to distribute the weight more naturally, making it as supportive as it is soft. If you are usually half the size, the brand recommends resizing. If you generally find that you need more support on your feet for long days, we recommend replacing the insole.
Best Comfortable Flat: Everlane Day Glove Flat
Save valuable storage space with a shoe that can take you from day to night. Everlane – one of Angelina Jolie’s most popular travel shoe brands – makes this modern day glove flat with butter-soft leather that blends in perfectly with jeans, skirts, business attire and more. They even have durable rubber soles for non-slip grip and side vents so your feet do not overheat.
Best Sandal With Arch Support: Olukai Upena Sandal
If you prefer a pair of sandals for your vacation, you do not have to compromise on comfort. The crossed leather pair by OluKai has an anatomically shaped footbed that feels better every time you wear it. The toe loop and the adjustable ankle strap keep your foot safe. It is available in six colors and we love this combination of gold and leather.
Best Leather Sneaker: Ecco Soft 7 Sneaker
The Ecco Soft 7 has been enjoying great popularity with travelers for some time now and for good reason: it provides a good grip in the arch and high quality materials in a simple Scandinavian style. The supple leather upper is available in 13 colors – from floral prints to metallics. Note, however, that neutrals are the easiest to process during packaging.
Best Knit Sneakers: Rothy’s The Sneaker
Are you looking for a light slip-on that feels comfortable immediately after unpacking? Rothy’s covered you with his new slip-on sneaker. The upper is made of the same upcycling material as the popular flats of the brand, of which Meghan Markle is a fan. However, it has been equipped with a sturdier sole that provides more grip for a long day on the road. Both the sneaker and the removable insole are machine washable.
Best Espadrilles: Cole Haan Cloudfeel Espadrille Sandal
The new Cloudfeel collection by Cole Haan lives up to its name. You filled in the jute sole of a traditional espadrille and padded it with lightweight, super-cushioned foam to make it feel like you’re in the air – whether you’re on a smooth sidewalk or bumpy cobblestones. The elastic ankle strap also makes donning and doffing easier.
Best Active Sneaker: Merrell Range AC+ Sneaker
While these knitted hiking boots by Merrell look more like sneakers than hikers, they do meet all the basic technical requirements – like a grippy outsole and a contoured insole with a triple arch support – to keep your feet happy for the next few miles.
Best Leather Sandals: Born Trang Sandal
The Superga Cotu sneaker is a favorite among Kate Middleton, Emma Watson and even a fixture in Princess Diana’s casual travel wardrobe. He has been a magnet for travelers for decades. This soft pink upper is a trendy update and there are even more colors on Amazon, but you can not go wrong with the original white canvas.
Best Summer Travel Shoes: Sperry Seaport Boat Shoe
This summer to the coast? Choose this sophisticated slip on Sperry. The 360-degree lacing system allows you to make the fit as slim or narrow as you need it, and they are padded with memory foam. In addition, the upper is pre-treated to withstand the effects of salt or fresh water, so you can carry your couple carefree by the sea.