Shoes are one of the most important items on your packing list — after all, you need to make sure you're ready to trek around a new destination. But they can also be one of the bulkiest items you bring along. Further complicating your packing is the fact that each trip requires its own footwear. Gym shoes won’t work for a business trip, and likewise, you don’t want to wear flip-flops if you’re planning to hike. We've put together a list of the best shoes for any kind of trip, so that your feet stay supported, comfortable, and blister-free.
Active Adventures
Women: Urban Fox
Planning a trip that’s going to be active, but not too strenuous? Check out the Beckett Women's Wool Runners by Urban Fox. Made with comfortable wool fabric, the Beckett sneakers have lots of extra padding and are very lightweight. The shoes are flexible and easy to walk in. They’re also fashionable, which helps you stay ready for any scene.
Men: UnderArmour Ripple Sneaker
The UnderArmour Men’s Ripple Sneaker is a comfortable choice for any active adventure since many customers use the sneakers as gym shoes. The sneaker is lightweight but sturdy. These shoes are great for walking, light sports, and other physical activities and is also visually aesthetic. Best of all, the Ripple is a budget-friendly choice starting at only $33.15.
City Breaks
Women: Skechers
City vacations require a lot of walking. Stay comfy and blister-free with the Skechers Performance Go Walk 4 Shoe. These tennis shoes fit snugly and are lightweight, which makes them easy to pack. The memory foam footbed is comfortable and responsive. The shoe even includes a bamboo element to control any unpleasant odors. According to reviews, the Go Walk 4 is also helpful for people with plantar fasciitis.
Men: Keen
The Austin Shoe created by footwear brand KEEN is a great choice for long days spent covering the sidewalk. The shoe is made of full-grain leather with a durable rubber sole. They're water-resistant and have sturdy arches that support your feet. The Austin includes a classic oxford lace design and will help you stay comfortable all day long.
Beach Trips
Women: Teva Sandals
The Teva Women’s W Ysidro Stitch Sandal is a perfect choice for beach vacations. Lightweight and comfortable, the shoes are sturdy and made with rubber outsoles that provide traction for walking through sand. The sandals are easy to slip on and off at the door of your beach house and can be worn in water if you feel the urge to splash through the waves.
Men: Chaco Z/1® CLASSIC
Take along a pair of Chaco Z/1® CLASSIC on your next beach trip. These sandals have comfortable cushions for your feet and are also durable and hardy. The simple design makes them easy to slip on and off, plus they’re water-friendly, which makes them ideal for land or sea.
Hiking
Women: Keen
The KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is perfect for just about any hiking trail. This pair of shoes is extremely sturdy with a thick tread that aggressively grips the terrain so you won’t fall. The boots are offered in a few different neutral colors and are also waterproof. They even include a special type of heel support to keep you from twisting your ankle.
Men: North Face
Guys will love the North Face Men's Ultra 109 GTX Hiking Shoe on their next trip due to its waterproof membrane and protective design. This lightweight shoe is great for hiking through a variety of terrain including both wet and dry trails since it has excellent traction. North Face is a brand that’s well-known for its quality products and this hiking shoe is no exception.
Business Trips
Women: Birdie
Want a shoe that looks classy in a meeting, but is still functional enough to book it through the airport trying to catch your next flight? Try The Starling from Birdie — a pair of luxurious velvet flats that come in color choices from black to olive green to cheetah print. The flats are soft and cushiony with no-slip rubber soles to support your feet.
Men: Grid Chukka Boot
The Grid Chukka Boot by To Boot New York are stylish yet comfortable, making them great for a business meeting or dinner. The boots have soft insoles to keep your feet comfortable, while rubber soles provide good grip. The boots are also great for travel because they’re simple to put on and take off.
Feature Image Credit: Mostovyi Sergii Igorevich/ Shutterstock
