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The 11 Best Men’s Sneakers of 2025, Tested and Reviewed


Packing for a trip can be a logistical nightmare, especially when it comes to footwear. You need shoes that are comfortable enough to wear for miles of sightseeing, stylish enough for impromptu dinners, and durable enough to withstand the rigors of travel – all without taking up precious suitcase space. The right sneakers can be the perfect travel companion, blending practicality and style without leaving you longing for a pair you left back at home. 

We tested the best sneakers on the market, considering everything from breathability and support to packability and versatility, helping you step into your next adventure with the perfect footwear. If you need a headstart, our team’s favorite was the Kizik London, which provide plenty of cushioning, have a lacing system that’s easy to dial in, and feature plenty of style to take you from your daily walking tour right into the Michelin-starred dinner you’ve been saving up for.

Kizik Men's London

PHOTO: Kizik

The Kizik London impressed us with its exceptional comfort and support. From the first wear, the cushioned insole and perfect fit (true to size) eliminated any break-in period. In our tests, we were impressed by the all-day comfort, even after 10+ hours of walking around the city. The durable construction, particularly the unique heel design, shows no signs of wear. While breathable and ideal for everyday walking and city exploration, the cloth upper isn’t suited for rain. Despite the higher price point, we found that the superior support and long-lasting comfort justified the cost, making the Kizik London a worthwhile investment for those on their feet all day.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 15 

AHNU Sequence 1

PHOTO: AHNU

Thanks to immediate comfort and a noticeable spring in every step due to its unique carbon fiber plate, the AHNU Sequence 1 is our pick for the best splurge sneaker. We found the fit to be true to size with no break-in period required, making them ideal for errands and dog walks while at home and long days on your feet while traveling. The ample support and striking black and white design were appreciated, though some may find the ankle support too low (high-top versions are available, if you prefer). The shoe’s quality, comfort, and unique technology justified the price for those seeking a premium, performance-driven sneaker, and it showed no signs of wear after testing. However, the stylish design prompted us to avoid potentially dirty environments.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14

Beckett Simonon Men's Leather and Suede Morgen Trainers

PHOTO: Beckett Simonon

The Beckett Simonon Morgen sneaker, based on the classic German Army Trainer used in the mid 1900s, is a stylish leather and suede sneaker that is comfortable and, in our experience, runs true to size. It is versatile enough to be worn for both casual and slightly dressier occasions, making it great for all-day wear at home, on a work trip, or on vacation. 

The sneaker is well-made with quality materials and a sturdy sole. However, the interior leather color can rub off on socks and we found that the tongue tends to slip. The color transfer should happen less once you break the shoes in. Despite these drawbacks, the Morgen sneaker is a good option for those looking for a dressier shoe.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14 

Zappos Hoka Men's Clifton 9 Running Shoe

PHOTO: Zappos

The Hoka Clifton 9 impressed us with its exceptional comfort and cushioning, earning praise as the “ultimate road running shoe.” The plush foam, roomy toe box, and supportive heel are our favorite qualities — we even noted a “slipper-like” feel from the first wear. The extended heel tab provided easy slip-on access without chafing. 

The Clifton 9 excelled on the road, offering stability and reducing foot fatigue, even for those with sciatica. While not designed for highly technical trails, it handled light trail running and hiking surprisingly well. Its versatility extended to everyday wear, long drives, and even for wear around the house. Though the uber-chunky style might not appeal to everyone, the comfort, performance, and reasonable price point make the Hoka Clifton 9 a top pick for runners and anyone seeking all-day comfort.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 16 

New Balance Men's 990 v6 Sneakers

PHOTO: Zappos

The New Balance 990 V6, aside from being one of the more popular sneakers among menswear enthusiasts, is immediately impressive thanks to its exceptional comfort and support, earning high marks during our tests for all-day wear. The brand’s proprietary FuelCell and ENCAP midsole cushioning tech provides a “bouncy” and supportive feel, ideal for walking and exercise. High-quality materials, including pigskin suede and breathable mesh, contributed to the premium feel and durability. 

While the “dad shoe” aesthetic might not suit everyone, the overall quality and “Made in U.S.A.” construction justified the higher price point. The only drawback we found was slightly reduced traction in wet conditions, particularly on smooth surfaces.   

The Details: Sizes 7 to 16

NOBULL Men's Allday Ripstop Sneakers

PHOTO: NOBULL

The Nobull Allday sneaker earned praise for its instant comfort and high-quality build. They are versatile shoes that excelled both on the pickleball court and during casual walks around town. A snag, however, was the sizing — we advise sizing down due to the shoes running both long and wide. 

Despite this fit issue, comfort remained a highlight. While the sizing challenges are something to be considered, the Nobull Allday’s comfort, stylish appearance, and performance capabilities make up for it, making them a viable choice for active individuals looking for a multi-functional sneaker.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 16 

adidas Men's Runfalcon 2.0 Running Shoe

PHOTO: Amazon

The Adidas Runfalcon 2 has proved its worth as a durable and reliable everyday sneaker. After two years of regular wear, these shoes still hold up remarkably well. The soles show minimal wear, and the uppers remain in excellent condition, with no fading or major scuffs. Beyond their longevity, the Runfalcon 2’s lightweight design makes them comfortable for all-day wear across a number of activities like walking and light jogging. They also pack easily, making them a convenient travel companion. For a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice quality or comfort, the Adidas Runfalcon 2 is a solid choice.

The Details: Sizes 6.5 to 14 

Atoms Men's Model 000

PHOTO: Atoms
What to Consider

  • The knit upper, while comfortable, might not provide the same level of support as other sneakers on the list. 

Thanks to its unique, monochromatic design, the Atoms Model 000 is a stylish, versatile sneaker suitable for everything from casual walks to dinner outings. In our opinion, the comfort level is the shoe’s best feature, thanks to the stretchy knit upper that conforms to the foot. The added bonus of being able to wear them as slip-ons makes them extra convenient for travel or quick errands. The unisex design also broadens their appeal, offering a stylish and comfortable option for a wide range of wearers.

The Details: Sizes 3.5 to 15 

Sperry Unisex Classic CVO Sneaker

PHOTO: Zappos

The Sperry Unisex Classic CVO Sneaker is a go-to choice for a casual, sporty shoe. It uses its simple design to add a clean, stylish look to almost any outfit or occasion. A major plus for travelers is their packability; they flatten down more than most sneakers and are incredibly lightweight, making them ideal for carry-on luggage. The durable upper material, especially in a neutral color like brown, effectively hides scuffs and dirt. Comfort is also a priority, thanks to the cushioned footbed that makes long walks a breeze.  There’s a reason style legends like Paul Newman relied on these. 

The Details: Sizes 4 to 13

OluKai Mio LÄ« Sneakers

PHOTO: OluKai

The OluKai Mio Li is one of our favorites and the perfect summer travel companion. Lightweight and breathable, these sneakers proved their worth on a recent trip to Greece, where they handled everything from hikes to beach days. The standout feature is the supportive footbed combined with a convenient drop-in heel, allowing for nearly hands-free slip-on and -off — a lifesaver for quickly getting out the door. Wearing them daily for two weeks straight, this feature proved invaluable. For effortless style and all-day comfort on your next warm-weather adventure, the OluKai Mio Li should be a top contender.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 15 

New Balance Men's 997H V1 Sneaker

PHOTO: Amazon

When style and comfort are equally important, the New Balance 997H V1 is a go-to for us at T+L. These retro-inspired kicks offer great looks without sacrificing the comfort and practicality New Balance shoes are known for. Available in various materials and colors, the suede version stands out for their added texture and refined appearance, but we would have no qualms about owning a pair in each color and material. 

Breathability and all-day support make them comfortable for extended wear — a boon for travelers and folks who love to spend long days on their feet. They’re impressively lightweight and feature reliable traction that makes the 997H V1 easy to pack and even easier to throw on each day, making them a great choice for both travel and everyday life.

The Details: Sizes 4 to 13

Other Sneakers We Liked

The following selections didn’t quite make our list of the very best, but were still worthy of an honorable mention. 

  • Bruno Marc AirEasel Mesh Sneakers: Ideal for warmer weather, these dress sneakers are a great budget option. However, we didn’t find them versatile enough to wear in multiple situations, for example, from sightseeing to the gym.
  • Asics Skyhand OG: The Skyhand OG, originally made for playing court sports like handball and squash, is a clean, classic sneaker that goes with everything from workout gear to casual suiting. Their versatility and quality construction make them a great pick for traveling. That said, we did find them to be a bit heavy and more challenging to clean, due to the all-suede upper.

Travel + Leisure


Our Testing Process

We tested out dozens of pairs of sneakers to determine which are the best for long days spent on your feet. Our editors at T+L wore them on vacations abroad, on the streets of New York City, and along the California coast. Sneakers were evaluated for style, comfort, and durability, with additional consideration taken for pricing and value. 

We also judged sneakers based on their packability and how versatile they’d be on trips where packing space is at a premium.

Tips for Buying Men’s Sneakers

Consider versatility

When you’re buying a sneaker for travel, you need to consider its versatility. Some sneakers are great for walking around but don’t have the style to fit in at a nice dinner. Others will be incredibly stylish but will kill your feet after wandering around for a few hours. We recommend selecting a pair of shoes that not only looks good, but feels good, too. Plus, the more versatile they are, the less you have to pack, making travel that much easier. 

Prioritize support

As much as we are proponents of versatility, nothing is worse than showing up on your dream vacation wearing a pair of shoes that won’t be comfortable for long days on your feet. There are a lot of stylish sneakers out there, but if you go by style alone, you might find yourself in a precarious position when you start racking up 15,000 steps (or more) in a day. Pick a shoe that fits the shape of your foot, is comfortable with a variety of socks, and, most of all, will provide ample comfort for day-long excursions with minimal opportunities to rest your feet. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the best way to pack sneakers?

    The best way to pack sneakers is to clean them, then stuff them with socks or small clothing items to help maintain their shape and save space. Place them in a shoe bag or wrap them in a plastic bag to keep them from dirtying other items. Position them along the edges of your suitcase or at the bottom to create a stable base. If space is tight, place them sole-to-sole and use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize room. For carry-ons, consider wearing your bulkiest pair to free up luggage space.

  • How do you wash sneakers?

    To wash sneakers properly, check the care label to make sure they’re machine washable. Remove the laces and insoles, washing the laces separately in a mesh bag and cleaning the insoles by hand. If you’re using a washing machine, wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Always air dry, stuffing them with paper towels to maintain their shape.

    For hand washing, mix warm water with mild soap, scrub with a soft brush or cloth, and rinse thoroughly. Let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to avoid damaging sensitive materials.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure contributor Will Porter is an experienced style and fitness writer who has tested sneakers for everything from running marathons to walking around the city. It’s safe to say his closet is full of too many pairs of shoes, all of which get time in his rotation, despite the tough competition. 

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