11 Podiatrist-approved Walking Shoes for Travel

I don’t know about you, but for me, few things make a vacation worse than a pair of unbearable shoes that cause (or worsen) pain and blisters. As a globetrotter and avid walker, I’m always on the hunt for walking shoes that provide support and comfort on my travels. Call me picky, but since I have a background in fashion, they have to look stylish, too.  

I recently had a chance to connect with Dr. Adenike Sonaike, podiatrist and medical director of Baker Street Health. She gave me a set of criteria that the best walking shoes for travel must have. According to Sonaike, they should be lightweight, breathable, and have a sufficiently padded insole to provide arch support. She also points out that your choice may also depend on your destination. If you’re largely spending time in a city while walking on pavement, you’ll want to have shoes with thicker soles that reduce impact on your legs and spine, like chunky loafers or sneakers. If you’re hiking, look for shoes with traction to help prevent slipping and falling. Because of cabin pressure and dehydration, you might experience foot and ankle swelling on the flight itself and she suggests pairing your shoe of choice with compression socks. 

Using Sonaike’s tips and recommendations, I scoured the web for the most comfortable shoes to bring on your next trip. Below, explore top-rated styles from Hoka, Brooks, and more that make the best walking shoes, along with pairs that have been approved by the the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

Hoka One Clifton 9 Running Shoes

Hoka One’s Clifton 9 shoes are APMA Approved, making them an easy choice. Lightweight and cushioned for sole support, this Clifton 9 edition adds 3mm of height from previous versions. Many reviewers praise its arch support, comparing it to “walking on clouds”. It’s available in 25 colors, in sizes from 5 to 12. 

Teva Trailwinder Low Hiking Shoes

Teva has been making footwear for 40 years. The Trailwinder is one of my favorite travel shoes because they’re just so darn comfortable. The knit upper is breathable and Teva’s LITE-COMF midsole makes walking long distances enjoyable. The cushioned support absorbs foot strike impact, which can cause pain to the heel or ball of the foot after extensive walking. Because they’re lightweight, they pack easily into a carry-on. I love the heel pull tab, which makes it easy to get these on and off. 

Lamo Footwear Makenna Sneakers

I’ve been wearing Lamo footwear for several years now because they’re airy and don’t require tons of luggage space. Part of one of the company’s newest collections, this adorable tennis sneaker comes in four colors, from sizes 5 to 11. Their patented insole provides flexible and shock-absorbent assistance for long days spent on your feet. 

Adidas Originals Superstar W Sneakers

These shoes have been around since the 1970’s — and with good reason. Not only does this casual walking shoe have a loyal following, it meets all the criteria for an excellent walking shoe with a solid fit and good stability along with cushion and arch support. Reviewers praise its comfort and footbed support. One consumer wore it to Disney World for the first time and found it “so comfy”. Another reviewer said they could wear these “for hours and hours”. If you’re looking to invest in a pair for your next trip, make sure to go down a size down as the majority of commenters said it runs half a size large.

Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoes

Brooks’ running shoes are my go-to choice for long runs, so I was elated to find out from our expert that they also stand in as an excellent walking shoe for long days of playing tourist. The Ghost Max 2 features a superb EVA insole for bouncy support. The rounded toe box ensures a secure fit, which means you shouldn’t experience any blisters. They’re available in eight colors, and offered in sizes from 5 to 12. I’m loving the Citadel/Coconut/ Biscuit colorway for fall. 

Helly Hansen Cascade Low-cut Helly Tech Hiking Shoes

Let’s not forget about waterproof walking shoes suited for unpredictable weather conditions. You’ll be glad you brought these lightweight, waterproof performance hikers. Cushioned with HH Max Comfort insoles, they’ll keep you comfortable and dry during long days spent on your feet. The outsole features the brand’s trademark grip system to provide superior traction on any terrain. Feel secure while navigating sidewalks, trails, and uneven surfaces. They’re available in five colors, from sizes 5.5 to 10.

Oofos Oomg Machine-washable Low Shoes

This lightweight shoe is made from breathable mesh fabric and slides on easily. Showcasing the brand’s patented foam technology, the brand says that its patented footbed takes in 37 percent more impact than other footwear, reducing pressure on your feet. Not only do these pack well, they’re great airport shoes that are even machine washable. For those traveling to warm weather destinations, note that the brand also makes the cutest sandals.

Scarlett Chase Belle Ballet Flats

Handcrafted in Italy and made with Italian patent leather, you won’t be sacrificing comfort for style when you slip these on your feet. Easily packable in an exterior pocket of a carry-on, these are made with a built-in support system and an arch-cradling foam-cushioned footbed that’s designed to support the foot. This shoe’s all about luxury through and through.

Samuel Hubbard Free Spirit Driver Loafers

Not all great walking shoes have to be sneakers. Not only do these meet our expert’s criteria, I can personally vouch for them as a travel journalist and avid walker. My pair have seen me through sightseeing in New York City, Paris, and numerous other journeys. I love that in addition to being supportive and plush, they’re also fashionable and can add sophistication to any outfit. Plus, they’re easy to pack and are great to wear for long travel days. 

Merrell Antora 3 Hiking Shoes

As a seasoned hiker, I can attest to the fact that Merrell makes some of my favorite trail shoes. According to our expert, these are made for walking and hiking. The brand’s patented foam-infused midsole offers enhanced cushion support while a durable outsole grants superb traction. Feel secure while navigating sidewalks, trails, and uneven surfaces. 

Fulton Classic Insoles

Slip the Fulton Classic Insoles into any of the shoes on this list. Reviewers suffering from plantar fasciitis and overpronation call these “miracle workers.” Designed by doctors, the custom molding technology adjusts to the unique contours of your foot, so they’ll get more and more comfortable with time. Shop them on sale now in a wide or standard option.

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