The Best Sneakers for Travel, Tested and Reviewed by Our Editors

Ideal for a busy travel day, Kizik’s Milan sneaker can be slipped on and off easily, no hands needed. “I’ve worn them to work, all across New York City and New Jersey, and recently took them to Maine. I haven’t complained once about my feet thanks to the ultra-cushioned foam insoles,” says commerce writer Paris Wilson. This nylon retro-inspired shoe comes in a variety of colorways, and you can even grab them in a leather version, too.

Allbirds reign supreme in the comfort department. The Tree Runners are particularly lightweight and perfect for travel. “Not only are these sneakers light and stretchy enough to easily slip on and off while zipping through airport security, but they’re also just as easy on my feet as my favorite pair of Uggs (yet much more functional and fashionable),” says contributor Lauren Dana Ellman. These versatile workhorses are available in a slew of neutral hues, matching everything in your capsule wardrobe. “The shoes are also true to size, and, even better, you won’t even need to break them in ahead of time: Just slip them on, tie up the laces, and get going. They’re made with eucalyptus, which is known for its breathability and thermo-regulating properties, keeping your feet surprisingly cool.”

Read a full review here.

These New Balance 574s have been one of my most-worn shoes for the past few years. They’re a perfect balance of sporty and stylish, and are neutral enough to match nearly anything in my carry-on. Looks aside, they’ve never let me down comfort-wise; from long commutes to the office to city walking tours around Boston, they’ve kept my feet comfortable every time. What stands out most to me is how lightweight they are—despite giving off the cool dad shoe vibe, they aren’t clunky or heavy at all. They’ve also stayed in excellent condition over the years, which is more than I can say about most of my white sneakers.

Associate editor Charlie Hobbs waxed poetic last year about his long-standing love for New Balance dad shoes. His claim: They are the ultimate travel shoe. Among his favorites are the popular 9060 sneaker. “They are the only sneakers I pack,” says Hobbs. “My conservatism is rewarded. I am obsessed with these sneakers. They are so comfortable, the Platonic ideal of the walking shoe.” They shine for both style and comfort, and work well year-round. “The shoes don’t merely survive such 30,000 step days—they improve, becoming softer, easier to wear, and never staining with the dust of the Tiergarten,” says Hobbs.

Earlier this year, Lululemon introduced its first casual sneaker—and Traveler contributor Rachel Chang was impressed to say the least. She put them to the test, wearing them all around the city and even during some runs for her Boston Marathon training—despite them not being billed as a running shoe. The verdict: They really held up: “From its 3D molded support and cushioning to its high-abrasion rubber traction, this no-fuss, everyday shoe is all about keeping you comfortable on the move,” says Chang. Even better, they look polished and stylish with any outfit. “I’ve paired the sneakers with running clothes, business casual dresses, jeans, and dress slacks. It’s worked well with all of them—after all, nothing is as versatile as a white sneaker.”

Read a full review here.

Once reserved for soccer, the trending Adidas Samba is back and better than ever. These low-top sporty shoes complete any street style look, all while providing plenty of comfort. Editorial assistant Kat Chen swears by these practically weightless favorites: “They are my ride or die. I got this newest pair last summer, but the ones I had before I wore for literally a decade until they finally wore down.

We love Vejas for its slightly elevated take on the everyday casual sneaker. The Campo is minimal in design, but manages to look polished with every outfit, from jeans to dresses. Global digital director Arati Menon tells us that the Campo sneaker requires much less break-in time than other Veja styles. “I’ve taken my Campos on rugged national park adventures and European city breaks, and use them as workwear staples,” says Menon. If you need something sleek in your suitcase that will match anything you throw on, pack these.

Adidas Stan Smiths might just become your most-worn sneaker—if they aren’t already. These classics are so sleek, easy to slide on and off, and versatile enough to be the only sneaker you pack to your next destination. Associate editor Matt Ortile has been swearing by these for the last eight years. And if you’re wondering where he’s taken them: “Paris, always; exploring the ancient sites of Hegra in AlUla, Saudi Arabia; and walking through the jungles of Angaur, the southernmost state in Palau.”

For something a little bit more bold than the Adidas Samba, the Gazelle features a platform sole that helps dress up a simple outfit. This one comes highly recommended by several of our editors for its fun look and even comfier feel—associate commerce director Madison Flager has been putting these to use regularly lately, including during an hours-long concert, and has had no complaints about how comfortable they are.

My in-flight uniform isn’t complete without a supportive sneaker, and for me, that’s my Hola Cliftons. I fly in them, I work out in them, I go on walks in them—I trust these shoes with my life. They’re always the only athletic pair of sneakers I pack on every trip. They have what looks like a thick platform, and that extra cushion and shock absorption only adds to the shoe’s comfort level. The EVA foam midsole provides a ton of support and makes your feet feel like they’re on a pillow.

These pretty blue runners are a go-to for senior destinations editor Shannon McMahon. They’re designed with built-in flexible nylon plates that act as a springboard, advancing your stride and offering lots of support. These lightweight running shoes are breathable, cushioned, and stylish, too.

Commerce writer Jessica Sulima has had her Salomon XT-6s for over three years. “I love wearing them to the airport because I don’t have to worry about frantically untying laces at security; the Quicklace closure allows you to slip them on and off with ease,” she says. “I’ve brought them on every kind of trip, from hiking excursions (ankle support) to city romps (gorp-core chic), and they do equally as well wherever they go.”

Another pair of Hokas worth a spot on our list is the Bondi 9. Marathoner and Traveler contributor Rachel Chang bought these after hearing they feature extreme cushioning. “Despite its ultra-cushioning that’s soft and light upon first step, there’s still a sense stability and support that I don’t always get from other cushioned shoes,” says Chang. She also likes the 3D molded collar, which makes the sneaker easy to slip in and out of at the airport. “I’ve run in them on the sunny streets of the Bahamas and snowy ones in New Jersey, as well as walked in them in New York City on long days on my feet—and they’ve always held me up and kept me going,” says Chang.

When associate articles director Megan Spurrell is trying to save suitcase space, she turns to this pair of do-it-all Sauconys. “They’re cushy and comfy, and actually feel practical for long days of walking around,” she says. “I famously abandon comfort for style on a regular basis at home, but luckily they straddle that line well. If you’re trying to pack light and can only bring one shoe (or one sneaker) for a multi-day trip, this one is versatile and supportive.”

If you’re a runner, you’ve probably been recommended a pair of Brooks. The Ghost Max 2 is another go-to for Chang: “Though I’m currently prescribed custom orthotics for my flat feet, I was impressed with how supportive the built-in arch support is on its own,” she says. “Perhaps my favorite thing about these shoes is how they’re made. With 54.9% recycled materials in the upper and the equivalent of 6.18 plastic bottles diverted from landfills, the Ghost Max 2 is certified carbon neutral.” Another pro: Brooks offers a 90-day guarantee—if you don’t love its products after nearly three months of testing them for any reason, the brand will gladly accept returns.

Read a full review here.