Even if you love the footwear you currently own, it’s wise to get a couple pairs of multipurpose shoes to be your go-to for travel. It’ll help turn packing into a no-brainer and free up space for other things you’d rather take with you or bring home.
To help you on your shoe-buying journey, we’ve rounded up the best shoes for all types of travelers and any type of vacation.
Men’s Shoes
Chaco Z2 Classic Sport Sandal
These adjustable Z-strapped sandals may not look like much at first glance, but they’ll likely be the toughest pair of shoes in your bag. Their hard soles allow you to wear them through any terrain, while the open-air tops give them amphibious versatility. Chaco’s easy-to-clean design also means that it may be years before you need a replacement pair.
KEEN Austin ShoeStylish, comfortable KEEN shoes are the perfect multipurpose option for travel. While the Austin’s thick sole makes it a good walking shoe, you’ll want to save this pair for nice events and occasions. Think dinners, happy hours, comedy shows, plane or train travel, winery tours or meeting with friends for the evening. A pair of Austin shoes and cross-trainers may end up being all you need for your next vacation.
Women’s Shoes
Heels are classy, but they can take up a decent amount of space in your bag. A smart alternative is a pair of thin, elegant ballet flats like this pair from FLTZ. They come in a variety of colors and patterns. Get these flats in a dark color so you don’t have to worry about scuffs or dirt. Plus they’ll pair well with any outfit. They’re perfect to be worn to a concert or play, out to dinner or on the plane.
KEEN Newport H2 Sandal
Do you want all-terrain footwear that are both lightweight and breathable? The Newport H2 is your perfect fit for any outdoor adventure. They have a more supportive arch than most other KEEN sandals and sport a rubber toe guard to protect your digits from bumps against rocks and tree stumps.
Rainbow Single Layer Classic Sandal
Flip-flop wearers will love Rainbows for travel. They have wide double-stitched straps and a thick, padded sole, which make them both durable and comfortable. With a nice leather thong, this pair of Rainbows is versatile enough to look great both with a spring outfit and a bathing suit on the beach.
Shoes for Men and Women
Havaianas
You don’t have to share a bathroom at a hostel to have a need for a simple pair of flip-flops, AKA shower shoes. Even if you’re staying at a nice hotel, you’ll want a basic pair of non-absorbent flip-flops for walking around the pool or hot tub. An inexpensive pair of Havaianas for men or women last long and are all you’ll need. They’re also great for the beach, water parks and the pool deck on cruise ships.
Trail Running ShoesFor active travelers, exploring a new destination may involve hitting the pavement of urban streets or trekking through the rocky countryside. No matter where your feet take you, a solid pair of trail running shoes should be with you every step of the way, like these Salomon shoes for men and these Reebok shoes for women. Even better: they can double as exercise shoes at the hotel gym or as all-day walking shoes when you’re out sightseeing.
Hiking ShoesWhen your travels bring you to the great outdoors, you’ll need a no-nonsense pair of hiking boots that can take you the distance you want to go. Merrell hiking boots are among the best footwear for outdoor adventure activities. These men’s Capra boots are waterproof, offer ankle protection and have lug patterns that give your feet traction on both wet and dry surfaces. For women, the Moab hiking boots also have great traction and support, plus they’re water resistant with mesh lining for ventilation.
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