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6 Best Travel-Friendly Training Shoes (2023 Update) | Picks for Walking, Standing, and More

• July 15, 2022 March 21, 2024

If you love to travel and you like to work out when you’re on the road, then you’ve likely run into the following question many times, “Which training shoes should I bring with me?” This question is typically then followed by multiple follow-ups.

For example, where are you traveling to and how much can you pack? What type of training do you plan to do while on your trip? Are you planning on doing bodyweight workouts or do you plan to resume your regular schedule of lifting and CrossFit workouts ?

All of these questions can then suggest which training shoes will be best for your travel needs . As someone who’s regularly traveling, I wanted to put together a list of some of my favorite travel-friendly training shoes.

In most cases, you’ll likely just bring whatever training shoes you’ve already been using for your gym sessions . However, if you have been waiting for an upcoming trip to explore new travel-friendly training shoes, then this list is for you.

For this round-up, I’m going to assume that you’re only wanting to travel with one pair of training shoes.

Best All-Around Training Shoes for Travel

The best all-around training shoes for travel is a pretty high accolade. For this section, this is a pair of shoes that can hold their own for things like serious training, look good on a daily wear basis, and also work for versatile training.

There are a lot of great all-around training shoes for travel and I discuss a lot of models that would work well for this category in my best cross-training shoes article . For brevity, I’ve tried to narrow down my picks below to the best of the best.

Top Pick: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer

The STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer is taking my top pick as the best all-around training shoes for travel. This shoe is taking my top spot for three key reasons. First, the Haze Trainer has an incredibly well-rounded performance.

This model has taken top picks in my best CrossFit shoes and best cross-training shoe round-ups due to its strong performance for lifting, versatile training, and CrossFit. Essentially, it’s a shoe that can hold its own in a variety of training contexts.

Second — and while appearance is subjective — I think the Haze Trainer has a nice casual look to them. They’re an easy training shoe to wear out and about and then to the gym and they don’t necessarily shout “training shoes” when worn casually.

Third and lastly, their Cross-Platform outsole and Cush50 midsole articulate and move well. Regarding comfort, mobility, and delivering a fairly wide toe box, the Haze Trainer does a good job across all of these contexts.

• Best For : CrossFit-Style Training
• Heel-to-Toe Drop : 4mm
• Weight : 11.2 oz  (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole : Yes
• Sizing : True to Size
• Read My Review :  STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer Review
• Runner-Up : York Athletics Frank Trainer
• Third Pick : OluKai Mio Li

STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer

• Heavy Lifting
• Cross-Training Workouts
• Athletic-Focused Sessions
• Shorter Runs (<3 miles)

Falls Short

• For Cost-Efficiency
• For Custom Orthotics
• For Thicker Feet

Best Comfortable Training Shoes for Travel

For the best comfortable training shoes for travel, I tried to consider two key performance areas. First, is the shoe comfortable for travel, all-day wear, and training? Second, how does the shoe perform in the gym?

Below, I’ve included some of my favorite training shoe picks that deliver super comfortable rides while also being solid training shoes in the gym.

Top Pick: On Cloud X

The On Cloud X is earning my top pick as the best comfortable training shoes for travel. When talking comfort, it’s tough to fault On shoes and this is why so many like and reach for the On Cloud 5 specifically for travel.

Suggested Read: On Cloud X Versus On Cloud 5 | Which Is Best for You?

For comfort, the On Cloud X delivers due to its CloudTec midsole. This midsole is mobile and it articulates well when walking, standing, being on your feet all day, and training. I don’t think many will have issues with the On Cloud X when it comes to all-day comfort.

In the context of training, the On Cloud X will work best for more versatile training sessions and light to moderate lifting. This model is not going to be the most stable for things like heavy squats . When all-day comfort is a priority, stability often takes a hit.

I also like the lightweight nature of the On Cloud X and the upper has a good level of breathability. I could see this being a good pick for anyone traveling to warmer climates that also want to wear their training shoes out and about.

• Best For : Shorter Runs, Light Lifting, HIIT, Agility
• Heel-to-Toe Drop : 6mm
• Weight : 8.8 oz  (for my size 10 model)
• Read My Review :  On Cloud X Review
• Runner Up: Reebok Speed 22 TR
• Third Pick: Nike Free Metcon 4

• Plyometrics
• Short/Mid-Range Runs
• HIIT Training
• Agility Workouts
• For Heavy Lifting
• For Long-Term Durability

Best Packable Training Shoes for Travel

When it comes to package training shoes, I’m primarily considering how easy it is to pack a pair of shoes in a tight bag. For example, I like to travel with a singular backpack for short trips and if the shoes aren’t on my feet, then they need to be easy to pack.

For packable training shoes, I try to pay attention to how a shoe retains its shape when potentially being stuffed into a bag. Ideally, you’ll want to pack training shoes that can compress well and fold without losing shape in their boot and upper.

Top Pick: Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3

The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 is taking my top spot as the best packable training shoes for travel. This is a cross-training shoe that is fantastic for travel, but it’s also fairly slept on in different training shoe communities, in my opinion.

The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 is a training shoe that I would describe as walking the fine line between being a minimalist feeling shoe, and a model that provides enough midsole to give you comfort and support.

I like the Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 for its packability due to its lightweight upper and sole mobility. This shoe’s upper easily compresses down and the sole articulates well so you can easily stuff these into even the tightest spots and they’ll retain their shape.

In the gym, the Inov-8 F-Lit 235 V3 is a pretty well-rounded shoe and it will work best for lifting, versatile training, and some CrossFit. It’s also a great shoe for those that love more minimalist-style shoes, which I mentioned above.

• Weight : 10.3 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Read My Review:  Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 Review
• Runner Up: STR/KE MVMNT Interval Knit AF Trainer
• Third Pick: OluKai Mio Li

Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3

• Plyometric Training
• Athletic Training
• Recreational Lifting

Best Minimalist Training Shoes for Travel

If you’re a fan of minimalist shoes, then you’re likely already well aware that these are some of the best shoes for travel. Minimalist shoes with their thin and mobile soles can typically be folded up easily for literally any type of travel bag.

If you’re traveling with minimalist shoes for training, then you’ll want a pair that can be good for a little bit of everything and can be easily packed. Note, this section is for minimalist shoes and if you’re looking for packable training-friendly barefoot shoes, then I have a section below for them.

Top Pick: Feiyue FE LO 1920

The Feiyue FE LO 1920 is taking my top pick as the best minimalist training shoes for travel. This pair of shoes is taking my top pick for three key reasons. First, the price point for these shoes is incredibly fair and solid.

The Feiyue FE LO 1920 cost around $24.99 USD so if you’re wanting a pair of shoes that you can travel with and not stress their price, then this model can be a great option to explore. I like that you can beat these up and not beat up the bank.

Second, this model does a good job in the gym and for daily wear. They have an insole construction that has a little padding and foam which is great for daily wear comfort and if you remove the insole for training, then you’re left with a flat and stable shoe for training.

Third and lastly, the construction of these shoes is solid, especially for the price. Generally, when you start to pass below $50 USD quality tends to decrease in various shoes, but that’s not the case with the FE LO 1920 and its materials.

• Best For : Cost-Efficiency, Training, and Daily Wear
• Heel-to-Toe Drop : 0mm
• Weight : 11.05 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole : No (but easily removable with a light adhesive)
• Sizing : Size Up a Half to Full Size
• Read My Review:  Feiyue FE LO 1920 Review
• Runner-Up: Adidas The Total
• Third Pick: Flux Footwear Adapt

Feiyue FE LO 1920

• Casual Wear
• Cost-Efficiency
• Free Running (for narrow feet)
• For Wide Feet
• For Replacing True Barefoot Shoes

Best Travel-Friendly Training Shoes for HIIT

If you’re planning to do primarily HIIT workouts and more versatile training while you’re traveling, then you’ll want a pair of shoes that excel for this style of training. This could be tackling bodyweight exercises, circuit-style workouts, and light runs.

When traveling, I’m regularly tackling different circuit-style workouts and mixing in some light running due to lacking equipment. If you’re similar, then you’ll want shoes optimized for this training context.

Top Pick: Reebok Speed 22 TR

The Reebok Speed 22 TR is taking my top pick as the best travel-friendly training shoes for HIIT. I enjoy the performance of the Reebok Speed 22 TR, and it’s a solid shoe for HIIT workouts, light running, and light lifting.

This model is the latest HIIT-focused training shoe from Reebok and it has received some notable construction upgrades compared to the less than stellar Reebok Speed 21 TR. I can see this model being a good budget-friendly model for training while on the road.

This shoe has a price point of $110 USD and can double as a daily wear shoe as well. Most recently, I brought these on a trip to New York City and they were comfortable when being on my feet all day and logging around 15-20k steps.

The Floatride Energy Foam midsole in this model gives them a responsive and comfortable feel and the full rubber outsole does a good job with traction and protecting the midsole from breakdown issues.

• Best For : Light Lifting, HIIT, Agility, and Lighter Runs
• Heel-to-Toe Drop : 10mm
• Weight : 10.4 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Read My Review :  Reebok Speed 22 TR Review
• Runner-Up : LANE EIGHT HIIT Trainer
• Third Pick : APL TechLoom Tracer

Reebok Speed 22 TR

• HIIT Workouts
• Light Lifting
• Short Runs/Sprints (to a degree)
• For CrossFit

Best Travel-Friendly Training Shoes for Wide Feet

When testing and looking for a good travel-friendly training shoe for wide feet , I’m concerned with two key performance areas. First, I’m assessing how a shoe fits and if it’s wide enough for different foot anatomies.

Second, I’m assessing the shoe’s performance and trying to figure out where it excels and if it’s comfortable for travel. Basically, can it be a one-stop shop for someone needing a good all-around training shoe for travel and wide feet?

Top Pick: Reebok Nano X2

The Reebok Nano X2 is earning my top pick as the best travel-friendly training shoe for wide feet. This model does a good job across the board regarding performance and they have a wider construction through the midfoot and forefoot.

If you’re on the road, then the Reebok Nano X2 can be a good option for those lifting, doing HIIT workouts, maybe a CrossFit session and even short runs. These shoes are pretty good all-around training shoes and cater to wide feet pretty well.

The Reebok Floatride Energy Foam in this shoe’s midsole walks a good line between being stable for heavy lifting and also responsive enough for HIIT training. I also like that the Reebok Nano X2 looks pretty good for daily wear.

Compared to other well-rounded cross-training shoes, I feel like the Reebok Nano X2 does an exceptional job for all-day wear. I think the Nano X2 could be a good pick for those that plan to wear their training shoes for travel in addition to training.

• Best For : General Training, HIIT Workouts, Casual CrossFit, and Wider Feet
• Heel-to-Toe Drop : 7mm
• Weight : 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Sizing : For wider/neutral width feet, you should be safe going true-to-size in the Nano X2. Narrow feet, size down a half size.
• Read My Review :  Reebok Nano X2 Review
• Runner-Up: Altra Solsctice XT 2
• Third Pick: NOBULL Trainer+

Reebok Nano X2

• Athletic-Focused Training
• Casual CrossFit Sessions
• Shorter Runs

Best Barefoot Shoes for Travel and Training

Barefoot shoes can be great options for traveling because they’re easily packable, lightweight, and can be folded up and stuffed into pretty much any type of bag. Barefoot shoes can be some of the best packable shoes for this reason.

Below, I’ve provided some of my favorite barefoot shoes for training and daily wear, which are both incredibly important for those traveling as you’ll typically want barefoot shoes that have a good degree of versatility.

Top Pick: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III is taking my top pick as the best barefoot shoes for travel and training. This barefoot shoe is taking my top pick for three key reasons. First, their appearance is pretty solid for being a barefoot shoe.

It’s no secret that barefoot shoes can sometimes fall short regarding appearance and aesthetics. I feel as though the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III is a model that does a good job delivering a simplistic and refined appearance for a variety of daily wear contexts.

Second, the Primus Lite III is a fairly strong barefoot shoe in the gym. They’re one of my favorite models for lifting and are one of my favorite shoes for deadlifting , and they can also hold their own for versatile training.

Third and lastly, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III is also pretty durable and they tend to last a while. If you’re traveling and plan to beat your shoes up and train in them, then the Primus Lite III can be a good option to explore.

• Best For : Heavy Lifting and Barbell Training
• Weight : 8.85 oz
• Sizing : True to Size, but there are no half sizes (except for 12.5)
• Read My Review :  Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Review
• Runner-Up: Xero Shoes Zelen
• Third Pick: Feelground Highrise Knit

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

• Heavy Weight Training
• Casual Workouts
• Lighter Runs and Athletic Training
• For Longer Barefoot-Style Running Workouts

What Training Shoes Are Best for Travel?

The best training shoes for travel will all have two key things in common. First , the shoes will need to have some baseline level of dual-functionality. For example, you’ll want shoes that can be comfortable for long days on your feet if you’re only bringing a limited amount of shoes.

If you’re traveling light and plan to work out, then you’ll likely not want to bring multiple pairs of shoes with you so having a pair of shoes that can be good for your training needs and daily wear can be imperative.

Second , you want a pair of shoes that can be packable if needed. Now, how packable a pair of training shoes is will exist on a spectrum and this can important to understand.

For example, if you have less room for packing, then you’ll want a pair of shoes that can compress easily and not lose shape in the boot and upper or break down faster due to being packed tightly.

How To Pick Training Shoes to Travel With

In my opinion, selecting great training shoes for travel is an art, especially if you’re someone who doesn’t want to skip a beat with training while traveling . A good pair of shoes can make or break great workouts while you’re on the road.

I wanted to share some thoughts on how I mentally navigate this question when traveling. By answering the three questions below in any order, you can create a list and select the best travel-friendly training shoes for your individual needs and wants.

1. Do you plan to train like normal while you’re on the road?

Not every trip we take is solely focused on relaxation and taking a break from the grind. If you’re traveling and plan to resume your normal training, then you’ll want to bring the shoes you normally wear or a pair that can perform strongly for your specific training needs and demands.

For example, if you’re tackling CrossFit workouts on the road, then bring a pair of shoes designed for CrossFit workouts . This will help you perform your best and will help direct you towards shoes that will work best for your demands and travel well.

2. Do you need a training shoe for travel and daily wear?

For daily wear and travel demands, you’ll want to explore travel-friendly training shoes that deliver a high level of comfort. Nothing is more annoying than having uncomfortable shoes on while traveling.

You’re already in a stressful situation. The last thing you need is a pair of shoes that don’t provide you with a comfortable ride, especially if you’re carrying around bags. If daily wear is a high priority, then explore models that deliver more comfort and a little less stability/firmness.

3. How much space do you have?

Once you’ve assessed your training and daily wear needs, it’s now time to assess packability and what’s realistic for you. If you have less room, then you’ll want to explore models that can easily be stashed in smaller spaces.

This will then create a bias towards what shoes will fit best and help you narrow down which models are feasible for your travel needs. For example, if you have less room, then you’ll likely not want to bring a pair of thick shoes that lack comfort and dual-functionality.

Takeaway Thoughts

There are countless travel-friendly training shoes on the market. Arguably, every training shoe could be travel-friendly if they fit your individual needs and wants well.

Hopefully, this round-up was able to provide some options and insights into navigating which shoes to travel with if you also plan to train and workout while on your trip.

If you have additional questions on travel-friendly training shoes, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly or @that_fit_friend).

Jake Boly, CSCS, MS Sports Science

Jake Boly is the Founder and Editor-In-Chief of That Fit Friend. He's often regarded to as a go-to resource in various performance shoe communities. He’s been formally reviewing shoes and training gear for over 7 years and has hand-tested over 400 pairs of shoes. Jake is known on the internet and YouTube for blending his review process with his educational, strength sports, and personal training background.

Jake has a Masters in Sports Science, a Bachelors in Exercise Science, a CSCS, and he's been personal training for over 10 years helping hundreds of clients get stronger, lose weight, and accomplish their goals. He uses his exercise science brain and personal training background to make curated and thoughtful review content on the fitness gear he's testing.

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• Travel Gear

The Best Lightweight + Packable Exercise Shoes for Travel

Published November 8, 2019

Written by:

Stacey Ebert

Stacey Ebert is a freelance writer, blogger, educator, yogi and traveler who has adventured through over 50 countries. After a...

Jenn Sutherland-Miller

Jenn raised 4 children while traveling full-time for more than a decade– it’s called worldschooling and it’s awesome. Jenn has...

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At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

It’s possible to find lightweight, packable exercise shoes that will fit in your carry on . Here’s what to look for and some of the best options.

Exercise is synonymous with a healthy lifestyle, and most of us want to continue that healthy lifestyle on the road. We carry running shoes,  travel yoga mats , search for local classes to get our sweat on, and choose our accommodations based on workout equipment and proximity to natural trails. Packing the ‘right’ footwear doesn’t necessarily mean that we’ll have to give up precious room in our  travel backpack  for the bulky, heavy and one-purpose only exercise shoes.

Pack for trips of one week or more without checking a bag.

• Thick comfortable straps
• Easy to organize
• Durable, waterproof fabric
• Backed by our Worldwide Warranty

Those hefty shoes of the past are no match for the running shoes of today. Top athletic companies and casual shoe companies, alike, have upped their games. There are so many options for lightweight running and exercise shoes, or second pair of travel shoes, that precious space in your carry on backpack is now well looked after. 

So, what should you look for in a pair of packable exercise shoes?

Things to Look for in Travel Running or Exercise Sneakers

Your perfect travel exercise shoes might be different than the ones in your best friend’s carry on . It’s not only the choice between black and purple, laces or none, barefoot or fully lined sole. You also need to consider the shoe’s packability, durability, and how well it performs for your preferred active activities.

Travel Friendly

What makes a shoe travel friendly? That depends. Weight is certainly an issue. As is versatility. Consider where your adventures are likely to take you. Are you the traveler looking for that second pair of shoes to cover all bases? Do you have specific footwear needs? Are you wearing these on your journey or packing them in your luggage? Your version of ‘travel-friendly’ might be different than mine – consider your needs and travel lifestyle before clicking ‘purchase’.

Packability 

Packability is important. Fitting everything into one carry on backpack is, of course, the best possible answer. Can you give your back a break and not add heaps of extra weight with an additional pair of shoes? Can you manage to keep everything inside that bag instead of hooking shoes, swinging, onto the outside of the bag with a carabiner? 

When choosing packable exercise shoes look for:

• Shoes that are lightweight (shoot for less than 10 ounces)
• A flexible midsole
• A semi-collapsible upper section
• Collapsible or flexible heel structure
• Think mesh for the most compact options

Performance

What do you expect from your exercise shoes? Are they comfortable? Can you walk all day in them? Do they fit your needs of wide or narrow, toe-box size, and blister free? Are you looking to run marathons, grab coffee with a friend, spend the day exploring the sights of a new city or all of the above? Consider your travel realities before you invest in new kicks.

Are you hard on your footwear? Consider the life you lead, how long you want these shoes to last and the care you provide your trusty trainers. Price and durability can often go hand in hand – keep in mind your actions, habits, comfort needs and how you pack before you buy that fabulous footwear.

Things to consider when choosing a great travel exercise shoe :

• Are these packable?
• Will they take up too much room in my bag?
• Do I need them to be collapsible?
• Are these lightweight enough so my carry on luggage still meets the weight allowance?
• Will these work for all of my travel exercise needs?
• Do these work as a secondary pair of shoes for all my travel needs?
• Is the value of this purchase worth the price?

The Best Packable Exercise Shoes and Running Sneakers for Travel

The Hoka One Challenger and Nike Flyknit are our two of our top choices for packable exercise shoes, but your best sneaker or exercise shoe for travel will depend on your preferred activities.

For myself, I prefer comfortable shoes that enable me to walk a path, hit the elliptical, and tour the city all without changing my kicks. Typical cross-trainers work for me. The shoe needs of my friend Anthony Rodale, ‘an ultra runner, 2 time Marathon des Sables finisher’ and one of the active minds behind  Fitwild , are on a different scale. While he was in France recently, he told me he had,  “2 pairs of Hokas that met his needs of lightweight and multifunctional.”  

Whether you’re a distance runner or a Crossfit fanatic, below are some of the most packable, yet functional, sneakers and exercise shoes for travel.

Hoka One Challenger ($130)

One of Wirecutter’s top choices for trail running and designed by a company that keeps weight in mind, this Hoka shoe isn’t as compressible as some others, but its full cushion design keeps feet and toes happy along the journey. With protection on both the outside and inside, it provides breathability and stability that runners crave. Protect your feet, stay flexible and head out on the trails. Wear this one on the plane. Pack the other pair.

Nike Free RN Flyknit  ($119-$219)

The lightest in this line of Nike options, this shoe’s innovative design moves with your every step. Key for travelers is the packability. With its mesh upper, you can shove it into your bag, grab your gear and get out there! This shoe has great breathability and significant ability to contract and expand with your entire foot as it hits the pavement or the trails. Lightweight construction and attention to detail that Nike is known for makes this choice one to add to your exercise pack.

Reebok ZQuick Running Shoe  ($30-$90) 

These travel-friendly running shoes include Nanoweb construction.

Reebok OSR Harmony Racer  ($45-$100)

These ultra lightweight (only 6 ounces) sneakers won’t weigh your bag down.

Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed  ($100)

Great on the trail or the treadmill, Adidas’s Terrex Speed sneaker is lightweight, easy to pack, and versatile alternative to hiking boots.

Adidas Ultraboost  ($180)

Adidas’s Ultraboost sneakers are foldable, lightweight, and made for runners.

Hoka One One Hupana ($115)

Made from lightweight mesh, this exercise shoe folds up small in your pack.

Moc3 RunAmoc  Active Shoes ($130)

Made in Oregon, the Moc3 is a slip-on barefoot running experience with 2mm soles. When not in use, it rolls up into a ball to pack away small.

Topo’s ST-3 Running Shoe  ($89-$99)

Topo’s ST-3 collapses flat, making it a super easy-to-pack exercise shoe for travel.

Nike Free 3.0 FlyKnit  ($89-$130)

These breathable running shoes are flexible and fit like a sock.

APL Techloom Pro Running Shoe  ($140-$160)

These sporty yet casual sneakers have a lightweight fabric design and construction.

Nike Metcon 5 Training Shoe  ($130)

The knit upper on this sneaker collapses when you stash it in your pack, but fits firm against top of feet while wearing it.

Salomon’s S-Lab Ultra 2 ($180)

These trail runners are lightweight, easy to pack alternatives to hiking boots that use elastic cords in lieu of laces.

Barefoot Exercise Shoes and Sandals for Travel

For those looking for an  au natural  experience, join the barefoot club. Whether you’re a five-finger fan or prefer skin close to the trail, there’s a model somewhere out there for you.

Vivobarefoot   ($160)

With no heel or support, these soles are shaped to your foot, allowing the nerve endings in our feet to feel the road beneath us. Keen on that feedback from the senses, these ‘non-shoe’ options are designed for true barefoot enthusiasts.

Vivobarefoot Motus   are multifunctional, lightweight running shoes with extra protection for both road and trail running. 

Xero Shoes ($65-$104)

Designed by an ‘All-American sprinter and All-American gymnast’ husband and wife duo, the company’s attitude is to ‘live life feet first.’ Designed for all elements and a natural lifestyle – their products have a feet-friendly attitude embedded in every sole.

Xero shoes barefoot inspired sports sandals – Z trek  ($65) comfortable, lightweight, easily accessible on the trails and on the road, feet feel free. 

Xero Shoes TerraFlex Trail Running Hiking Shoe  ($104) extra support with seamless design, mesh on top and an overlay of synthetic material gives runners trail stability and that freeform feel.  

The Best Brands for Travel-Friendly Sneakers and Exercise Shoes

Some of the best brands for travel-friendly sneakers and exercise shoes include:

Packing Tips for Running & Exercise Shoes

After you’ve chosen the perfect pair of exercise sneakers for your trip, next up is figuring out how to pack your shoes . When packing running sneakers or exercises shoes, be sure to:

• Stuff your shoes . Unless they’re so compressible they lay down flat, you won’t want to waste the bit of space inside your sneaker. Pack small items, like your socks, inside your shoe to optimize the space.
• Pack them in a separate shoe bag . This will prevent your shoes from dirtying any other items in your luggage.
• Pack them first , then pack the rest of your items around them.
• Pack them in the center of your bag . Even the lightest shoes still tend to weigh more than the rest of your clothes and personal items . Pack them in the center of your backpack to best distribute the weight when you’re carrying it.

In footwear as in life, you’ve got plenty of options. Colors, sizing, versatility, compressibility, and durability all factor into choosing the best exercise shoe for your travels. Whether you’re an ultramarathoner, avid runner, or exercise conscious traveler, there are packable, travel-ready sneakers out there that fit your feet and your budget.

• Consider your exercise needs
• Reaffirm your travel style
• Know your budget
• Always aim for happy feet

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Max Carry On Size

Stacey Ebert is a freelance writer, blogger, educator, yogi and traveler who has adventured through over 50 countries. After a 10-month honeymoon around the world, she started writing about adventure, journey and perspective changing life shifts.

She’s a badass at finding travel discounts, drilling down the details and asking the hard questions. Her work has been featured in both travel and educational publications.

Read more from Stacey

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Best Travel Workout Shoes for Fitness On the Go

Home » Workout » Best Travel Workout Shoes for Fitness On the Go

When it comes to maintaining a fitness routine while traveling, having the right workout shoes is essential. The right shoes not only provide comfort and support during workouts, but they also ensure that you can stay active and fit no matter where your travels take you. In this article, we will explore the best travel workout shoes that are perfect for fitness enthusiasts on the go.

Table of Contents

1. Comfort and Fit

2. versatility, 3. durability, 4. breathability, 1. athletic sneakers, 2. trail running shoes, 3. cross-trainers, 4. slip-on sneakers, 1. nike metcon, 2. reebok nano, 3. new balance fresh foam, 4. adidas ultraboost, 1. lightweight, 2. cushioning and support, 3. versatility, top gym shoes: the ultimate guide for choosing the perfect workout footwear.

Choosing the right gym shoes can make a significant difference in your workout performance and overall comfort. With so many options available, it can be challenging to find the perfect pair. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting gym shoes for your fitness routine:

Comfort should be your top priority when choosing workout shoes. Look for shoes that provide cushioning and support for your feet. Try them on and ensure they fit well, with enough room for your toes to move freely.

Opt for shoes that can be used for different types of exercises, such as running, weightlifting, and cross-training. This way, you won’t have to pack multiple pairs of shoes for different activities, saving precious space in your luggage.

Traveling often involves exploring different terrains and environments. Therefore, it’s crucial to invest in durable shoes that can withstand various conditions. Look for shoes with sturdy construction and materials that can handle wear and tear.

During workouts, your feet can get sweaty, leading to discomfort and even odor. Look for shoes with breathable materials that allow air circulation to keep your feet cool and dry.

Ultimate Guide: Best Travel Shoes for Every Adventure

While having dedicated workout shoes is important, it’s also essential to have versatile travel shoes that can support your active lifestyle beyond the gym. Here are some top picks for the best travel shoes that offer a balance of comfort, style, and functionality:

Athletic sneakers are perfect for both workouts and casual outings. Look for lightweight sneakers that provide excellent cushioning and support for all-day comfort.

If you enjoy outdoor activities and adventurous hikes, opt for trail running shoes. These shoes offer enhanced traction and stability on uneven terrains, making them ideal for exploring new destinations.

Cross-trainers are designed for versatility and can be used for a range of activities, including gym workouts, outdoor sports, and even light hiking. They provide stability and support for various movements, making them a great option for travelers.

For convenience and ease of use during travel, slip-on sneakers are a fantastic choice. They are lightweight, comfortable, and can be easily slipped on and off when going through airport security or during long walks.

Top Picks for the Best Shoes to Support Your Active Lifestyle

When it comes to supporting your active lifestyle, these shoes are worth considering:

The Nike Metcon is a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts due to its versatility and durability. It offers excellent support for weightlifting and various high-intensity workouts.

The Reebok Nano is another top pick for its durability and stability. It provides a secure fit and is suitable for both gym workouts and outdoor activities.

The New Balance Fresh Foam series offers exceptional comfort and cushioning, making it ideal for long-distance running and extended periods of walking or standing.

If you prioritize comfort and style, the Adidas Ultraboost is a great option. It offers excellent energy return and cushioning, making it perfect for long runs or days filled with walking and exploring.

Maximize Comfort and Versatility: Traveling with Running Shoes

Running shoes are often a go-to choice for travelers due to their comfort and versatility. Here are some reasons why running shoes are ideal for traveling:

Running shoes are designed to be lightweight, making them easy to pack and carry during your travels.

Running shoes provide excellent cushioning and support, ensuring comfort during long walks or workouts.

Running shoes can be used for various activities, including workouts, exploring new destinations, or simply walking around the city.

Most running shoes are made with breathable materials, allowing air to circulate and keep your feet cool and dry.

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The 9 Best Travel Running Shoes for Men of 2024 (So Far)

• August 13, 2023
• Gear , Travel

Are you looking for the best travel running shoes for men? Whether you’re a frequent traveler or want something compact for your gym bag, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll show you what to look for in travel-friendly sneakers and reveal the absolute best options on the market.

So lace up your shoes because it’s time to hit the ground running with the top travel kicks out there!

Key Takeaways

• Travel friendliness: The best packable running shoes for travel should be lightweight and easy to pack, making them convenient for travel.
• Breathability and comfort: Look for shoes with a mesh upper for breathability and cushioning for added comfort during long walks or runs.
• Versatility: Choose shoes that are versatile enough for running and walking, providing flexibility for different activities during your trip.
• Durability and traction: Opt for shoes with excellent traction for different terrains and durable construction to ensure they last throughout your travels.

Table of Contents

Things to look for in travel running or exercise sneakers.

When choosing the best travel running shoes, there are several key points to consider.

Firstly, travel friendliness, weight, size, fit, packability, and durability should all be taken into account. You want sneakers that are easy to take on your trips without taking up too much space in your luggage.

Secondly, they should be lightweight so they don’t weigh you down while exercising or walking around.

Finding the right size and fit is essential for comfort and performance.

Lastly, packability and durability are important factors to ensure your sneakers can withstand the rigors of travel without getting damaged.

Travel Friendly

Our article lists the most travel-friendly running shoes available today for those on the go. When you’re traveling, it’s essential to have footwear that is lightweight and easy to pack.

The running shoes in this list are designed for travel. These lightweight shoes offer cushioning and durability, ensuring your feet stay comfortable and protected during your runs or walks. A mesh upper provides breathability to keep your feet cool and dry, even in hot climates. Additionally, these shoes have excellent traction, allowing you to navigate different terrains while exploring new places confidently.

Whether you’re going for a run or need comfortable walking shoes for all-day wear, these travel-friendly running shoes are a versatile choice that will meet all your needs while on the move.

It’s crucial to consider the weight of your footwear, as lighter shoes can make a significant difference in your comfort and mobility while traveling.

You want something lightweight and flexible that won’t weigh you down. The running shoes on our list are designed to be super light, making them perfect for travel.

The most travel-friendly shoes are made from lightweight materials such as mesh or breathable fabrics. These will reduce the overall weight and allow your feet to breathe during long walks or runs.

The shoes detailed below can be worn on the plane or squeezed into your luggage without taking up too much space. With the lightest shoes on your feet, you’ll be ready to explore any destination with ease and comfort.

Size and Fit

To ensure a proper fit and prevent discomfort, make sure the size of your footwear is accurate, and the shoes are snug but not too tight. Finding the right size is crucial when choosing the right shoes for travel.

Look for shoes with a flexible midsole and breathable mesh upper to provide comfort and support. The midsole should have enough cushioning with foam technology to absorb shock and protect your feet during long walks or runs. Additionally, pay attention to the lacing system, as securing your foot in place helps achieve a better fit.

A common problem when wearing ill-fitting shoes is blisters, so make sure the toe box has enough room to allow natural movement without causing friction against your toes.

Packability

When considering footwear for travel, it’s important to find shoes that are easy to pack without sacrificing comfort or support.

You’ll want to look for lightweight options that won’t weigh down your luggage. The best travel-friendly shoes can easily be compressed and folded, occupying minimal space in your bag.

Additionally, look for shoe features such as breathable materials to keep your feet cool and comfortable during long walks or runs.

Consider shoes with reinforced soles and sturdy construction. When it comes to running shoes for travel, durability is key. Look for shoes that are lightweight, flexible, and built to last.

Brands like Saucony and New Balance offer a wide range of trail running shoes that fit these criteria. These shoes are designed with reinforced soles, making them resistant to wear and tear even on rugged terrains. The sturdy construction ensures that they can withstand the demands of your runs without compromising their performance or longevity.

When choosing the best running shoes for traveling, cushioning is a crucial factor to consider.

The market offers a wide range of options, but if you’re looking for the lightest and most packable running shoes without compromising on comfort and support, Adidas running shoes are worth considering.

Known for their innovative design and cutting-edge technology, Adidas has created a line of running sneakers that prioritize comfort while remaining lightweight and easy to pack. These shoes utilize advanced materials and construction techniques to deliver optimal impact absorption and energy return, allowing you to run longer distances with reduced fatigue.

You need a lightweight, flexible, and durable outsole when it comes to trail running or road running. These characteristics ensure your shoes can handle different terrains while providing optimal traction.

The best options have an outsole made from high-quality rubber or synthetic materials. This construction allows for excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls during your runs or hikes.

Additionally, a well-designed outsole offers enough flexibility to adapt to uneven terrain while still providing necessary support.

Whether you’re looking for running shoes for travel or simply the best running, workout, or walking shoes, having a well-cushioned midsole is essential.

The midsole is the layer between your shoe’s outsole and upper, providing shock absorption and stability. A good pair of shoes with a supportive midsole can make all the difference in your overall comfort and performance.

Whether you prefer a sneaker-like feel or need something more rugged like a hiking shoe, make sure to prioritize a high-quality midsole when choosing your next pair of travel-friendly running shoes.

Your feet will thank you!

The 9 Best Travel Running Shoes for Men

There are several options you may wish to consider.

The Saucony Kinvara 13 offer a lightweight, flexible design that is perfect for travel.

The Brooks Ghost 15 Neutral provide excellent cushioning and support for long-distance runs.

The adidas Ultraboost 22 deliver superior comfort and energy return.

Another great option are the Mizuno Wave Rider 25, known for their responsive ride and durability.

Lastly, the Brooks Hyperion Max Sneakers combine speed with comfort, making them an ideal choice for all kinds of sports.

Saucony Kinvara 13

Are you looking for comfortable and lightweight running shoes? The Saucony Kinvara 13 are the perfect choice! With their beveled midsole and new midfoot contouring, these shoes are built for speed.

Weighing only 7.2 ounces, they provide a lightweight feel that won’t slow you down. The single-layer mesh upper ensures breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during your runs.

• The Kinvara 13 was literally designed for speed. Its beveled midsole and new midfoot contouring…
• Its re-imagined upper is made with a single-layer mesh, giving you a lightweight feeling and even…
• We created the lightest Kinvara ever to help you truly take off. It’s 7.2 ounces of pure speed.

Product Specs:

• Rubber sole
• Beveled midsole and new midfoot contouring
• Very light at 7.2 ounces
• Single-layer mesh upper
• Surprisingly affordable for high-quality running shoes
• Exceptionally comfortable and supportive
• Plush yet responsive feel
• Excellent for long runs
• Low heel drop of 4mm for a natural stride
• Some may find the fit around foot arches too tight
• May not provide enough traction on slippery surfaces.

Brooks Ghost 15 Neutral

Another great option to consider are the Brooks Ghost 15 Neutral. These shoes are ideal for both road running and cross-training. The new midsole with DNA LOFT V2 cushioning provides a balanced and soft feel, ensuring a distraction-free run.

The soft midsole and segmented Crash Pad also work together to deliver a smooth and stable ride. The Brooks Ghost 15 Neutral also feature an enhanced upper with engineered air mesh and a 3D Fit Print for added structure and breathability.

With a comfortable fit and durable construction, these shoes are perfect for long walks or even triathlon preparation.

• THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Runners looking for a smooth ride that won’t distract from the fun of the…
• SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The Ghost 15 offers neutral support while providing high energizing cushioning….
• BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: New midsole features soft and lighter-weight DNA LOFT V2 cushioning to…
• Certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe
• APMA Seal of Acceptance
• Neutral support with high energizing cushioning
• New midsole with DNA LOFT V2 cushioning
• Soft midsole and segmented Crash Pad for a smooth ride
• Not so many color options

adidas Ultraboost 22

The adidas Ultraboost 22 are a popular choice for runners and walkers due to their incredible energy return and comfortable fit. With rubber soles and lace closures, you can expect a secure and supportive feel on your feet.

The adidas PRIMEKNIT textile upper provides breathability and flexibility, allowing your feet to move naturally. The soft heel fit adds extra comfort, making these shoes perfect for long walks or runs.

• Men’s high-performance running shoes with a smooth, flexible ride
• ADIDAS PRIMEKNIT: Foot-hugging upper that wraps the foot with a supportive fit to enhance movement
• CAN’T STOP. WON’T STOP: The incredible energy return of adidas BOOST is created by fusing together…
• Lace closure
• adidas PRIMEKNIT textile upper
• Soft heel fit
• Linear Energy Push system
• Incredible energy return
• Comfortable and lightweight
• Good construction and durability
• Supportive for plus-size individuals
• They are not the cheapest shoes

Mizuno Wave Rider 25

You’ll love the comfort and durability of the Mizuno Wave Rider 25. They feature an engineered mesh upper that provides breathability and flexibility. These shoes have been a runner’s favorite for years, and the Wave Rider 25 continue to live up to that reputation.

One of the key features of the Wave Rider 25 are the midsole, which combine ENERZY and U4ic foams. This combination provides excellent comfort and shock absorption, making them ideal for long runs. The shoes also feature a MIZUNO WAVE plate that helps disperse energy, reducing the impact on your feet.

The Wave Rider 25 don’t disappoint in terms of traction and durability. The X10 Outsole offers superior traction and more extended wear, allowing you to run confidently on various surfaces.

The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 are known for being the most comfortable Mizuno shoes. They’re suitable for long hours of standing at work, providing support and comfort throughout the day. The shoes also offer consistent size, support, and comfort. They’re lightweight and flexible, making them a great choice for long runs. Additionally, they provide good support and have a pleasing aesthetic.

• High mileage running shoe built for runners with a neutral gait looking for comfort and durability
• Engineered Mesh Upper: Ultra lightweight fabric provides unmatched breathability and flexibility for…
• Our proprietary midsole uses a combination of ENERZY and U4ic foams to provide exceptional balance…
• High mileage running shoe for neutral gait runners
• Engineered Mesh Upper
• Midsole with ENERZY and U4ic foams
• MIZUNO WAVE plate for energy dispersion and cushioning
• X10 Outsole for superior traction and durability
• Comfortable and durable for long hours of standing at work
• Flexible for changes in feet during long runs with a lifespan of 350-400 miles
• Lightweight and comfortable with good support
• Great for running – they hold up well for bigger individuals with short, fat feet
• Some users state the sizing runs small

Brooks Hyperion Max Sneaker

Now that you’ve learned about the Mizuno Wave Rider 25 let’s move on to another popular running shoe option: the Brooks Hyperion Max Sneaker. These might be worth considering if you’re looking for packable running shoes with neutral support and lightweight cushioning.

The Brooks Hyperion Max feature nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH cushioning, providing a lightweight and responsive feel while running. Their stretch-woven upper and 3D Fit Print technology ensures a secure fit, allowing optimum airflow to keep your feet cool during your runs.

• THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Hyperion Max provides neutral support for runners who want to train…
• SOFT CUSHIONING: The midsole is configured with nitrogen-infused, lightweight DNA FLASH cushioning…
• SECURE FIT: The stretch woven upper and 3D Fit Print provide extra structure to hold your foot in…
• Material: Fabric and synthetic
• Sole: Rubber
• Shaft: Ankle Strap
• One of the best training shoes, according to positive reviews
• Comfortable and springy feel while running
• Great as a daily trainer or for long runs and shorter races
• Less stable compared to other models like the adidas Ultraboost 22
• Cushioning may feel distracting and reduce road feel

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12

If you’re looking for a new running shoe option, consider the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 with their innovative features and comfortable design. The Fresh Foam X provides exceptional comfort, making your runs more enjoyable. The Hypoknit upper offers stretch and support, ensuring a secure fit that moves with your foot. Plus, the high-quality construction adds to the snug feel of the shoe.

With excellent shock absorbency, these shoes are perfect for those long-distance runs or intense workouts.

• This model runs large, compared to previous versions. You may consider ordering down from your…
• Fresh Foam X cushioning delivers our most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort
• Hypoknit upper designed to provide strategic areas of stretch and support
• Fresh Foam X cushioning
• Hypoknit upper
• Exceptional comfort
• Stretchy and supportive upper
• Excellent shock absorbency
• May not be suitable for severe over-pronation

ASICS Noosa Tri 13

The ASICS Noosa Tri 13 sneakers are known for their bright and comfortable design, making them popular among runners. Many customers have praised these shoes for their vibrant colors and comfortable fit. The synthetic-and-mesh material provides breathability, while the FLYTEFOAM Technology offers lightweight cushioning.

The GUIDESOLE Technology reduces ankle flexion and absorbs shock, making these sneakers ideal for long-distance running. The engineered mesh upper enhances breathability, keeping your feet cool during intense workouts. Additionally, the AHAR Plus Outsole ensures durability for extended use.

• FLYTEFOAM Technology: Provides lightweight cushioning.
• GUIDESOLE Technology: The curved sole design and stiff forefoot of our GUIDESOLE technology reduce…
• Engineered mesh upper improves breathability:
• FLYTEFOAM technology
• Curved sole design
• Engineered mesh upper
• AHAR Plus outsole
• Bright and attractive design
• Lightweight cushioning for comfort
• Reduced ankle flexion and shock absorption
• Improved breathability with an engineered mesh upper
• Durable outsole
• Some may find the colors too bold or flashy
• Limited color options are available
• May not provide enough arch support for individuals with high arches

Saucony Endorphin Speed 2

I’ve heard great things about the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 sneakers from runners who have praised their performance and comfortable fit. Many users have mentioned that these shoes are fast and provide a snug fit, allowing for improved running performance. They also appreciate the affordable price and the availability of different color schemes to choose from.

However, some users have found these shoes to be a bit unstable during sharp turns at fast speeds.

• Rolling in speed: SPEEDROLL Technology propels you forward effortlessly, so you can run faster, not…
• Intuitive and flexible Carbitex AFX3-quarter carbon-fiber plate for speed and efficiency
• Lightweight mesh actively pulls moisture away from the foot
• 6mm last, grippy PWRTRAC outsole, and deconstructed bootie fit for distance running
• Comfy and snug fit
• Affordable price
• Different color schemes are available
• Feels a bit unstable during sharp turns at fast speeds

ASICS Gel-Contend 7

ASICS Gel-Contend 7 are known for their excellent shock absorption and improved airflow with an engineered mesh upper. When you slip on these sneakers, you’ll feel the cushioning provided by the GEL Technology, which absorbs impact and reduces strain on your joints.

The engineered mesh upper ensures your feet stay cool and well-ventilated during your runs. These shoes are comfortable and durable, making them an excellent investment for your exercise routine.

• GEL technology cushioning provides excellent shock absorption
• OrthoLite sockliner offers excellent step-in comfort
• Synthetic stitching on the overlays improves support
• Synthetic-and-mesh material
• GEL Technology for excellent shock absorption
• Engineered mesh upper for improved airflow
• Ortholite sockliner for moisture management
• Flex grooves in the outsole for improved flexibility
• Synthetic stitching on overlays for support
• Highly comfortable, especially for individuals with foot pain or wide feet
• Good value compared to expensive athletic shoes
• Firm and supportive soles for running and walking
• Heel wear is a common issue over time

Further Reading

So there you have it – the best travel running shoes for men! If you need to find a pair for your female partner, please check out our article that features the best travel running shoes for women .

Matt Francis

Hi, I'm Matt Francis. A digital nomad, blogger, web developer and all-around good egg! I am the brains (and brawn) behind Everyday Ape. My website features a wide range of topics, with a focus on travelling and working online.

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17 Running Shoes Worth Packing—Whether You're a Casual Runner or a Marathoner

By Rachel Chang and Paris Wilson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Finding the right running shoe can be harder than the workout itself . Running shoes come with different criteria than your normal walking shoes : It's important to consider the type of running you'll be doing , your arch, and the overall weight of the shoe. As for finding the proper fit for your foot, Shawn Marlovits, the owner of Fleet Foot Hoboken, says this: “A great fitting running shoe should have a snug fit in the heel and mid-foot with a roomy toe box. This gives the foot some good support in the heel and around the arch while allowing the toes to breathe. It should lace up the foot evenly and not put pressure on the instep of the foot.”

Marlovits suggested going up a full shoe size, and the tip can be used to help find the right fit across all brands of running shoes. “You should have about the width of a thumb from your longest toe to the end of the toe box when you are standing in your running shoes,” he says. This ‘rule of thumb’ takes into account that running shoes tend to run small and that feet may swell while running.

Dr. William Spielfogel , a podiatrist and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store , echoes that advice, and suggests trying on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen. And if you don’t find the exact right shoe match, there are other ways to customize your sneakers. “Many times, off-the-shelf athletic footwear will not provide enough support, which you should consider adding for additional comfort, shock absorption, and stability,” he says. “Adding a quality pair of arch supports to your footwear of choice can prevent unnecessary pain and alleviate the discomfort associated with increased activity.”

To help kickstart your search, we’ve rounded up some of the best running shoes on the market, tailored to a variety of needs and terrains, with recommendations from both casual runners and professionals alike—starting off with the ones our editors have been lacing up recently.

Editor favorites

• Best for casual runners
• Best everyday sneaker
• Most versatile running shoe
• Best lightweight running shoe
• Best for city runs
• Best technical running shoe
• Best waterproof running shoe
• Best racing shoe
• Best all-terrain running shoe
• Best budget running shoe

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

When a friend of mine on the wellness beat asked the group chat if anyone wanted a new pair of running shoes, I pounced. I was quickly becoming the Goldilocks of sneakers after recently retiring my go-to pair—every shoe was too tight or too flat or too cloud-like. I thought it couldn’t hurt to try the seafoam green pair my friend was offering. I’ve never looked back. The Adidas Adizero SL are my just right . My feet feel cushioned when I’m putting the miles behind me, whether along the East River or in a cruise ship gym, but not so much that I can’t sense the ground beneath me. My shin splints are lessened; my ankles feel stronger; and for the cherry on top, I receive more compliments on them than I can count. — Taylor Eisenhauer , editorial operations manager

This just might be the most comfortable running shoe I’ve ever worn. From jogs around my neighborhood and incline walks on the treadmill to long days on my feet running errands, the Hoka Clifton 9 has yet to let me down. What stands out most about this lightweight sneaker is just how much cushioning you get—the EVA foam midsole provides a ton of support and makes your feet feel like they're on a pillow. The sneaker has what looks like a thick platform, but that extra cushion and shock absorption just adds to the shoe’s comfort level. I was a little skeptical about the higher-than-usual heel at first, but it actually helps me slide my foot into the shoe more easily. Other perks: These sneakers are breathable, durable, and made with recycled materials. — Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

I've tried a number of Brooks running shoes, but the Ghosts 15 feel like the perfect pair. They're cushy, but still springy; they're lightweight, but sturdy. I also love that they come in an all-black colorway which makes them stylish  enough  that they're the only running shoes I have ever worn outside of running (ideal when you're trying to pack light). — Megan Spurrell , senior editor

I got into running pretty late in life (I was 35), and honestly my priority was a shoe that didn’t look like a bag of Cheetos. My first pair of Wave Riders were black mesh with subtle turquoise accents. As I continued to run and get better, these shoes remained my favorite, and still are to this day. They have a breathable mesh fabric, are lightweight, and look great if I need to pop them on for errands. — Alex Sanidad, research director

Lululemon is one of my go-to brands for activewear, so I was thrilled when it launched performance sneakers. I love the Blissful 2 running shoes—they’re lightweight, comfortable, and sleek. Designed specifically for women runners, this pair has a foam cushioning to soften landings. They’re a great pair to pack—I've worn these running, walking, or to a workout class. —M.K.

I ran my last two half marathons in the Brooks Hyperion Max—at 6.8 ounces, the lightweight sneakers were easy to fit in my carry-on when flying to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and driving to Newport, Rhode Island, and kept me light on my feet throughout both races. I also wear them regularly on treadmills at the gym and in Mile High classes, and I find they work especially well on short runs. Compared to other Brooks models, they're designed to give neutral support and a medium level of cushioning, so if you're looking for a super cushiony feel, this probably isn't the shoe for you—but if you're looking for something lightweight and responsive with a fits-like-a-glove shape, I'd recommend them. — Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

I'm a self proclaimed sneaker-head, but when it came to actual trainers that would be the right fit for me—I was stumped. I've been pleasantly surprised by the Saysh One sneakers in the year and a half I've worn them. The Saysh One is the first sneaker released by Allyson Felix 's brand, and was designed specifically for a woman's foot. I was skeptical with its slender, thin design, but have been pleasantly surprised by the arch and heel support. This shoe is also incredibly lightweight and molds to your foot. Two of my favorite aesthetic traits: the thin laces and woven texture. — Paris Wilson , commerce producer

Best for casual runners: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

For 25 years, the Adrenaline has been a staple of Brooks’ lineup, with the GTS (appropriately named “Go-To Shoe”) earning the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. The sneaker strikes the right balance of both “smart support” through its guide rails, which limit extra movements in the feet (and help stabilize the knees and hips), and soft cushioning that doesn’t become too squishy.

The best part is, the Adrenaline does all of its own work—catering toward any kind of foot-strike without the runner ever noticing. Having worn almost every model since the GTS 17, no matter how many other shoes I try—even the new Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 —I still find my way back to the trusty Adrenaline GTS, my true sole-mate.

Marlovits says this shoe, along with the New Balance 860 , Asics GT-2000 , and Hoka Clifton , tend to check off all the right needs for most runners, including being supportive, cushioned, flexible, lightweight, and durable.

Best everyday sneaker: On Cloudmonster

Look down at any race or airport, and you’re bound to see a pair of On running shoes on someone’s feet, as the Swiss brand has become one of the trendiest shoes on the market. On Athletic Club’s Oliver Hoare , who is also a track-and-field Olympian, wears On’s Cloudmonster shoe for general running. “This shoe has changed the game in cushion, support, and stability,” he says. “It is the Swiss army knife of training shoes for professional athletes and joggers.”

He’s taken the shoes from trails to city streets in every kind of weather, as well as various lengths, from 8- to 20-mile runs. “With the amount of mileage and strain I put on my body, I am able to get back a lot from each run by wearing the Cloudmonster,” he adds. One of his most memorable runs in them was a “killer” 19-mile run with American Olympian Joe Klecker and New Zealand world championship representative George Beamish on the “hilly dirt roads” of Tom Watson Park and Boulder Reservoir in Colorado , maintaining an under-six-minute-mile pace.

Most versatile running shoe: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14

New Balance athlete and Peloton instructor Selena Samuela can jump from running to strength-training in an instant in this New Balance classic. “If you’re going somewhere and only have space for one pair of shoes, it has to be the 1080,” she says, adding that she especially loves the superior underfoot cushioning and range of color options.

“The Fresh Foam sneaker allows me to solely focus on the meditative act of running as the shoe itself is so comfortable it doesn’t distract from the experience,” Samuela says. “Additionally, I’m always looking for ways to be more environmentally conscious, and the Fresh Foam meets New Balance’s green leaf standard.” The hypo-knit upper is made with 50 percent or more recycled content, and offers stretch and support in all the right areas.

Best lightweight running shoe: Asics Noosa Tri 15

At 6.5 ounces, the Asics Noosa Tri was originally designed for triathletes, so it’s no surprise that it is 2016 Olympic gold medalist Gwen Jorgensen ’s top choice. “I have had Achilles issues and this shoe has a soft heel cup,” she says. “I also love that Asics is using a more sustainable design approach in creating this shoe.”

Along with its low weight (a win for those packing the shoe), the sneaker also uses the brand’s Guidesole technology with a curved sole and stiff forefoot combo that’s easier on the ankles and legs, helping runners of any kind stay nimble. Jorgensen says it’s great for uptempo or easy days, especially when she runs in one of her favorite spots, Harper Lake and Davidson Mesa in Louisville, Colorado.

Best for city runs: Adidas Adizero Boston 12

“As an NYC street runner, the pavement can wreak havoc on my body—tendon, shins, hips,” Bronx–based marathoner Louisa Tatum, who is part of the Mile Style running group, says. “But since discovering the Adidas Boston 10, via the Adidas Runners , all of my issues have been minimized because of the cushioning throughout the shoe and technology built in for mid-sole strikers.”

The pair, now in version 12, provided a smooth ride for her on runs from Harlem down to the southern tip of Manhattan as she trained for the Berlin Marathon. “The sneakers absorb the shock from the ground really well, carrying me through both long and short runs, and the best part is they are light and don't make much noise,” she says. Bonus tip from Tatum: “If you have wide feet, opt for a men’s shoe because it will have a bigger toe box.”

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

Marlovits says pavement shoes should have a bit more cushioning to soften the blow of the hard surface, noting the Hoka Bondi and Saucony Triumph as other leaders in this category.

Best technical running shoe: Brooks Cascadia 17

Brooks professional trail athlete and ultra-runner Hillary Allen had a tough time choosing between the brand’s Catamount (which is her go-to for fast runs, workouts, and hill repeats) and the Cascadia, which she prefers for “my burly mountain days and more technical trails where I need protection for my feet and cushion for my longer miles.”

Allen’s favorite feature are the lugs that help her both on and off the trail, across even the steepest terrains. In fact, it was the Cascadia that helped her place third at the San Juan Solstice 50-Mile Run in the mountains of south central Colorado, where she also achieved the fourth fastest time in the race’s history.

Best waterproof running shoe: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex

Very few things can come between runners and the road—even poor weather conditions. But there’s nothing more painful than wet shoes, especially when they cause blisters and irritation. “Gore-Tex is a breathable waterproof laminate that will keep your feet warm and dry, but won’t get your feet too hot or sweaty” Marlovits says.

Raindrops end up slipping right off the upper, while an extra gaiter at the collar helps keep things tight so no water gets into the shoe. The rubber outsole also resembles a bike tire to ensure extra traction, no matter how stormy the situation. Other standouts in this category include Brooks GTX Ghost and the On Cloudventure Waterproof shoe.

Best racing shoe: Saucony Endorphin Speed 2

If you have a need for speed, you want to be as light on your feet as possible. “These shoes tend to be minimal and today some are even plated—they have a plastic or carbon plate within the midsole to propel you forward and make you a more efficient runner while they minimize fatigue,” Marlovits says of most racing shoes today.

While he also lists the Hoka Carbon X and the Nike Zoom Vaporfly as good options, the Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 has a sleek new design, marked with a tighter fit in the heel, most breathable mesh, suede details, and anti-slip laces that makes it a favorite. The seven-ounce shoe also has a reinforced outsole for added traction and durability.

Best all-terrain running shoe: New Balance Fresh Foam x 880

Finding a single pair of running shoes to take on vacation can be a challenge when your itinerary includes a healthy mix of adventures. But New York Road Runners ’ CEO Kerin Hempel has found her go-to traveling shoe with New Balance 880 when she ran through the volcanic lava fields at La Perouse Bay in Maui . “These shoes helped me trek from the white sand beaches of Wailea to the jagged rock trails along the southern tip of the island—one of the most beautiful runs I have taken,” she says.

Hempel says she loves that it’s a classic model for neutral runners that keeps getting tweaked and improved. The latest version is built with Fresh Foam X, which provides neutral underfoot cushioning anywhere you go—the road, trails, a hotel treadmill—but also a durable, dual-layer midsole construction. [ Editor's note: New Balance is the Official Athletic Footwear and Apparel Partner of NYRR.]

Best budget running shoe: Asics Gel-Contend 7

“Entry-level shoes in the specialty market tend to be around $100 to $110 today,” Marlovits says, noting the spike is related to inflation and supply chain issues. But more budget-friendly shoes do exist: the Asics Gel-Content 7 is a good neutral road shoe for all-day wear with rear-foot gel to absorb extra shock, a foam midsole for extra flexibility, and an Ortholite sock liner for moisture management.

Another strategy to save on is to go for older models of the same shoe, Marlovits suggests. “Most shoe models are updated each year and oftentimes the updates are minimal,” he says. “You may be better off buying a model from last season than buying a budget shoe—you get a better quality and more performance-oriented shoe for the same or less than a budget model.”

16 Tried-And-True Travel Shoes (for Walking All Day)

Smart travelers know the value of great shoes. When you’re on your feet all day — whether it’s hiking a trail or walking neighborhoods in a new city — your footwear can make an enormous difference. That’s why I’m here to report on the best men’s and women’s travel shoes for walking all day.

I’m a minimalist and typically only take one or two pairs of shoes on the road. My ideal travel shoes are stylish, lightweight, and comfortable all day long. In the summer, I look for more breathable and lightweight shoes, and in winter, I crave warmth and durability.

I’ve worked at REI and traveled extensively in Europe for business and personal endeavors, so I know a thing or two about footwear that’s built for walking all day. I’m happy to share my findings on such brands as Allbirds, Lems, Xero, SeaVees, and Blundstone, as these companies make some truly stellar kicks.

This list includes sneakers, loafers, slip-ons, athletic shoes, and a few sandals that I’ve evaluated for comfort, style, packability, and other key factors.

Travel is back in a big way, so let’s dive headfirst into my list of the best men’s and women’s travel shoes money can buy.

Best Travel Shoes for Men & Women

• Best All-Around: Allbirds Tree Runners
• Best Slip-Ons: SeaVees Huntington Middie
• Zero-Drop Barefoot Shoes: Lems Primal Zen
• Zero-Drop Barefoot Boots: Lems Boulder Vegan
• All-Purpose Sneakers: Reebok Classic
• Ultra-Lightweight & Packable Slip-Ons: Xero Sunrise
• Trail Running Shoes: Salomon Wander
• Stylish Hiking Shoes: Merrell Burnt Rock
• Tough Fitness Kicks: GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
• Men’s Dress Shoes: Florsheim Oxford
• Women’s Dress Shoes: Rothy’s The Point
• Slip-On Chelsea Boots: Blundstone 550
• Minimalist Barefoot Sandals: Luna Oso Flaco
• Classy Slide-On Sandals: Birkenstock Arizona
• Unbreakable Flip Flops: Rainbow Double Layer
• Hiking Sandals: Teva Universal
• Considerations for Travel Shoes & Sandals
• Final Thoughts: Best Travel Shoes for Men & Women

Best All-Around Allbirds Tree Runners

I’m a huge fan of the Allbirds Tree Runners. They come in a wide variety of colors, and you’ll love their breathability and packability. You’ll have no problem squishing them down flat and tying them to the side of your backpack or even stuffing them into the water bottle pocket.

I criss-crossed Europe in my Allbirds and washed them several times. They held up great! The best thing about Allbirds is how lightweight they are. They’re perfect for walking all day, thanks to the stretchy material that molds to your feet.

If you’re looking for responsibly sourced and comfortable all-day shoes, I can highly recommend the Allbirds.

Best Slip-Ons SeaVees Huntington Middie

Want a slightly more stylish option than the Allbirds? The SeaVees Huntington Middie is my favorite slip-on shoe for travel. The high top and suede material make them easy to dress up or down.

SeaVees are perfect travel companions. I love the simple, minimalistic look they bring to any outfit, so they look great day and night.

Plus, they’re super comfortable and easy to slip on and off. Quite a few online reviewers say SeaVees aren’t just a travel shoe but also a go-to everyday casual shoe.

Zero-Drop Barefoot Shoes Lems Primal Zen

I recommend the Lems Primal Zens for the zero-drop traveler because they’re lightweight, versatile, and minimalist, making them excellent travel shoes.

Travel is hard on the body, and some people prefer the benefits of a zero-drop shoe with the natural fit and feel that promotes healthy walking habits. In comparison, traditional shoes can produce an unnatural gait that increases the likelihood of injury.

These Lems can handle anything – from running, hiking, working out, and walking. Their versatility and durability make them perfect for a new adventure every day when traveling.

Zero-Drop Barefoot Boots Lems Boulder Vegan

Traveling in the fall or winter? I’d opt for Lems’ Boulder Vegan Boots. The neutral colors go with any outfit, and they pack down to a size of a puff jacket, making them an easy must-carry.

Lems is a vegan-friendly Colorado brand that strives to make responsibly produced and sustainable footwear. They use recycled products to create new materials and also partner with a non-profit.

The Lems cork footbed molds to your feet and has a wide toebox, so this zero-drop style is perfect for travelers who are on their feet all day. You have a choice of materials to help you find the one that best matches your travel needs.

All-Purpose Sneakers Reebok Classic

If you’re a fan of sneakers, the Reebok Classic offers excellent support and comes in an array of colors and styles.

The downside to these shoes is their limited packability and versatility. Compared to others on this list, the Reebok Classics don’t pack down as small and don’t dress up as easily for attending those special dinner events.

I love these Reeboks because they’re highly functional and will take you to your destination in comfy sneaker style.

Ultra-Lightweight & Packable Slip-Ons Xero Sunrise

The Xero Sunrise slip-ons are the lightest and most packable shoe on this list. Weighing in at a ridiculous 5.6 ounces each (men’s size medium), these were designed for those who want a comfortable shoe to slide into when it’s time to chill.

Though I don’t recommend climbing a mountain in these or donning them during a 30,000-step marathon around the city, I do think they’d work perfectly for a relaxing night on the town, strolling around a farmers market, or kicking your feet up by the pool.

From experience, I can tell you these are about as comfortable, cozy, and convenient as travel shoes come these days. For my more relaxed trips, they’ll make it into my travel bag every single time.

Trail Running Shoes Salomon Wander

The Salomon Wander is made for trail running but also works quite well as a travel shoe. They’re versatile for active travelers who like to walk, run, and hike all day, every day.

These shoes have ample cushion that makes long walks in the city easier on your knees, but they aren’t quite as stylish as some and don’t dress up as easily.

Salomon is a trusted and well-reviewed brand, and their Wander is a fine addition to their respected product line. If you spend all day on your feet, look no further.

Stylish Hiking Shoes Merrell Burnt Rock

I love the Merrell Burnt Rock because they’re so stylish. These are ideal for travelers who like to hit the trail occasionally but also know they’ll spend most of their time in the city.

The Burnt Rock comes in various colors, and their earth-toned palette makes them about as versatile of a shoe as you’ll find on this list. The mixture of suede and mesh make them breathable like a sneaker, but with style.

Flip the shoe over and you’ll find a beautiful rubber outsole for reliable traction, yet these don’t look like hiking shoes.

Tough Fitness Kicks GORUCK Ballistic Trainers

Are you an active traveler who pushes most shoes to their limits? Or someone who will work out CrossFit-style before racing off to see the sights? Then I wholeheartedly recommend the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers.

The Ballistic Trainers are designed for the traveler who puts their shoes through hell. They’re extra supportive, with tough nylon uppers and durable triple compound rubber. These shoes are seriously durable.

Not only are they built to last, but also are stylish and versatile enough for any casual travel. They’re low-profile sneakers in neutral colors that can be paired with any casual clothing. The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers make for a perfect travel shoe for the always-on-the-move traveler.

Men’s Dress Shoes Florsheim Oxford

For men who like to travel in style, the Florsheim Oxfords are ideal shoes for looking good all day and night. I recommend these for business commuters who need to balance professionalism with their active lifestyle.

The Oxfords have a very classic, minimalist style. Their Ortholite X-40 rebound foam soles deliver non-stop comfort no matter how long you’re on your feet.

The Florsheim Oxford is a quality dress shoe that won’t break your budget. Traveling for work is often tiring, but these shoes will cushion your feet and keep the spring in your step.

Women’s Dress Shoes Rothy’s The Point

Rothy’s is a high-quality brand that’s known for transforming recycled plastic bottles into simple, stylish shoes. They have classic silhouettes and a variety of styles to match your personality.

Why have I included them on this list? Not only are they simple and packable, but they’re designed to be washed. I’ve had mine for years, and even after several washes, they look as good as new.

While they cost a bit more, the material quality and durability are well worth the price. For businesswomen on their feet all day, these are the stylish flats you’ve been wanting.

Slip-On Chelsea Boots Blundstone 550

These are my go-to winter travel shoes — versatile and stylish slip-on Chelsea boots that are easy to love. Yes, they’re one of the more expensive options here, but well worth the investment.

If I was traveling and could only bring one pair of shoes, I’d bring these. I can work, hike, or walk all day in them with no problem. Compared to the Lems, the Blundstone 550 are more durable and rugged. They do get a bit hot in warmer climates, so consider the low cuts.

Caution: Blundstone is an Australian brand, and AU and US sizes differ slightly. For example, at REI the boot size on the box is AU sizing but the size selection tool on the website is US sizing. Make sure you’re ordering the right size.

Minimalist Barefoot Sandals Luna Oso Flaco Winged Edition

If you’re traveling to a warm climate and have little need to dress up, I’d recommend the Luna Oso Flaco. In another post, I chose these as the top minimalist barefoot sandal , due to their many excellent qualities for active travelers on the go.

Weighing under one pound per pair, these are lightweight as well as super-compact. You’ll barely notice them in your suitcase or backpack.

The Oso Flaco sandals are the best zero-drop option for travelers who want to connect with the earth. Their lightweight and rugged sole makes them a great choice for your adventures.

Classy Slide-On Sandals Birkenstock Arizona

Our favorite versatile slide-on sandals are the Birkenstock Arizonas. These are a classic style that has transitioned from dorky to stylish over the years.

I sometimes travel in summer with friends who also wear these shoes. We all agree that they’re ultra-comfortable and perfect for all-day treks in the city. Whether you wake up in hostels or highrise hotels, these are reliable urban cruisers.

One caveat, however: on hot, sweaty days in these sandals, my feet sometimes get blisters, so I’ll usually opt for sneakers instead. Other than that, I love my Birkenstocks for traveling.

Unbreakable Flip-Flops Rainbow Double Layer

Rainbows are flip-flops built for the long haul. But be sure to break these in before your trip. They may be uncomfortable at first, but once they mold to your feet, you’ll never want to take them off.

I know people who have worn these for years and swear by them. As with some of the other shoes on this list, these are quite flat and packable. The two shoes sandwiched together are about the thickness of a paperback book.

The Rainbow product guarantee covers all manufacturing defects for life, no matter how old. This lifetime replacement policy is another reason to love these traveler favorites.

Hiking Sandals Teva Universal

Want a more substantial and supportive sandal than the Bedrocks? I’d point you to the Teva Universal Sandal — versatile, classic, and more affordable.

These come in several neutral colors that simplify dress-up. I had a pair with copper-colored straps that paired easily with dresses I wore for a summer in Italy.

Teva Universals are lightweight and can be easily stowed. Save space by using their Velcro straps to fasten them to the outside of your backpack.

Criteria for Travel Shoes & Sandals

This list reflects several key factors you should consider before packing your suitcase with travel shoes. Some may be more relevant than others, based on your travel needs.

No matter where you’re going, your shoes must always be comfortable, especially when the steps start to pile up. Treat your feet right by carefully considering the cushioning and breathability.

An ill-fitting pair of shoes can be distracting and even painful at times, so do your do diligence as you research shoes, read reviews, and reference the sizing guide to ensure you get the right fit.

Styling is important if a shoe is to be truly versatile. I lean more towards minimalist sneakers if I’ll be going to museums all day followed by a relaxing dinner at night. Save space in your suitcase by packing a style that complements as many of your outfits and activities as possible.

We’ve done our best to pick a wide array of shoes that will look good on anyone, and have strayed away from the dorky Rick Steves dad sneakers of the past. (Sorry, Rick.)

Laced vs. Slip-On

I often pack one pair of laced and one pair of slip-on shoes for ease of use and comfort (slip-ons) and athletic performance (laced). There are other styles to consider, too, like boots and sandals, so do your research and choose what’s best for you.

I usually wear my slip-ons for more leisurely activities and wear laced kicks for more high-intensity activities that call for more foot and ankle support.

Breathability

When you’re a high-intensity traveler who puts in a lot of steps , you need a set of footwear that’ll release the body heat that your feet produce. Otherwise, you’re looking at clammy, sweaty feet that are prone to blisters. Gross.

We did our best to pick breathable shoes that will keep your feet dry and fresh as you pile up the miles, so long as you match them up with a capable pair of travel or hiking socks .

Have you ever had a pair of cheap shoes crap out on you midway through a trip? I haven’t, but I can imagine it’d be quite the pain in the butt to replace shoes in a foreign land. I don’t have such problems with my footwear since I always pick travel shoes that are durable and built for the long haul.

To ensure you buy a pair of durable shoes, read reviews, keep a close eye on the materials used to produce them, and only buy well-reviewed products from trusted brands.

Packability

As a minimalist traveler, packability is one of my top priorities. I wear my bulkiest shoes on the airplane while packing my lighter and more compact pair, as well as my sandals.

Saving space in your minimalist travel pack is a top consideration when hitting the road, so pick shoes that’ll pack down small if you intend on traveling light .

Weight and packability go hand in hand. And lighter shoes are better when you’re carrying a weekend backpack, duffle, or suitcase. Shoes tend to be among the heaviest travel items we carry.

Noel, the founder of this website, is an ultralight backpacker who nerds out over the weight of each piece of gear in his backpack. Maybe you should too.

Affordability is another key factor. I want all of the factors listed above, but not at an unfair cost. Remember that your shoes must endure cobblestones, dirt roads, train stations, and the occasional hike. That’s why you don’t see any cheap Amazon knockoffs on this list.

We did our best to recommend an array of well-reviewed shoes across a wide range of budgets.

Which Travel Shoes Will You Lace Up?

This has been my take on the best men’s and women’s travel shoes for all day walking. All of these shoes are stylish, comfortable, durable, lightweight and breathable. With any of these, your feet will thank you for making their next travel adventure as comfy as possible.

Don’t waste a single precious travel day looking for new shoes (or band-aids) because you chose the wrong footwear. This list consists of quality brands like Allbirds, Lems, Xero, Reebok, Blundstone, and others that you can rely on. Please share your experiences in the comments section.

I’ve traveled extensively in Europe wearing several of these shoes and hope my experiences will help you more comfortably navigate all those airports, train stations, and city streets that await you in the future. May all your travel adventures be low-impact, smooth sailing, and on-time!

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

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10 Best Travel Shoes for Men in 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Style Editors

Here's one more way to optimize your travel setup.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Best Travel Shoes for Men

Best Overall Travel Shoe

Lusso cloud nomad.

Most Comfortable Travel Shoes

Oofos oomg eezee low shoe.

Best Travel Loafer

Rothys the ravello loafer.

Best Travel Sneaker

Snibbs rovr.

Best Elevated Travel Shoe

Luca terra mule.

Best Beach Travel Shoes

Soludos the seville smoking slipper.

Most Underrated Travel Shoes

Hey dude men's wally stretch.

Best Dress Travel Shoes

Amberjack the original.

Most Cushioned Travel Shoes

Hoka clifton 9 sneakers.

Best Travel Boot

Blundstone blundstone #585.

The best travel shoes are a lot like walking shoes : they're built with a level of comfort so you can stand and walk in them for hours. But unlike most walking shoes, a solid pair of travel shoes is much more cushioned, and are also easier to pack into your suitcase. That means they come in clutch if you're dashing at the airport, or lounging at the hotel lobby.

What to Consider

The most important factor is a combination of comfort and support. You don't want to wear toasty slippers if you're driving in the car or trekking through the airport, and you don't need to wear some lace-up hiking boots to get the best support possible. Some travel shoes can lean more on comfort (Oofos, Hoka), while others can lean more towards support (Amberjack, Blundstone). The key is to find a happy medium here and get what suits you and the travel situation at hand the best. For example, if you're taking a long flight to another country, it's probably best to aim for more comfort-leaning travel. But if you're making a drive to a weekend getaway, a shoe with more support (and a tougher build) will likely serve as a better choice.

Packability

Unless you plan on wearing a bigger shoe en route to your destination, your travel shoes should be packable. Certain shoes fit better into different sizes of luggage. To assist in the packing process, we assessed which type of travel bag is the ideal minimal size for packing each shoe: Backpack , Carry-On , or Checked Bag . The criteria used were weight, size, and how easily each shoe could be compressed or folded without looking funky once you arrive at your destination. For example, the Amberjack Original is lightweight for a dress shoe but doesn't compress or fold up, so it should go in a carry on bag, at least.

Travel shoes should also be lightweight, and yes, boots can be lightweight too. Dodge any shoe that's got heavy outsoles and avoid materials that are thick and trap heat. Instead, opt for shoes with foam builds and breathable construction.

How We Selected

We consulted with Men's Health writers and editors on the best travel shoes for men in 2024. Experts, including our gear and commerce editor, John Thompson, reviewed a number of travel shoes and evaluated their comfort, weight, and packability. We also considered price point, as some travel shoes promise a better overall value than others

Below, we rounded up the best travel shoes for all types of jet-setting needs. The picks might not all look like they belong in the same boat, but when you see how they all fit, you'll find each travel shoe we selected serves a unique purpose. Ready to see what's in store?

As it turns out, all it took to make this cozy house slipper into a great travel shoe was a suede upgrade. Lusso Cloud has been producing a range of comfortable slippers and casual slides for years now. With a proprietary three layer sole, every pair offers foamy cushioning, along with a springy bounce. The inside contains a lush fabric that feel great on your feet.

Now that the Nomad, one of the startup's bestsellers, comes in a brushed suede upper. It has transitioned from lounge apparel to the ultimate in-transit shoes. The heel has a fold down feature, which not only turns the shoe into a mule, it makes for easy flat packing. It gives off the elevated appearance of a plain toe loafer, and who doesn't like to look their best while traveling?

After having some experience with the original model, we had to take this upgrade for a spin. After a train trip that took over an hour each way, and a few hours spend sitting at a desk, the cushioning held up strong. Where the Lusso Ckoud really shines is on the move. The specially designed outsole has a touch of bounce, similar to a running shoe, while feeling as light as a house slipper on your feet.

Read more: Best Men's Slip-on Shoes

Oofos is most known for its out-of-this-world recovery slides , but the brand has since expanded into other footwear styles. This slip-on shoe style packs top-tier cushioning with a breathable upper that can be taken on and off with ease. We like sliding these bad boys on for long flights as well as for general lounging shoes for wherever your accommodations might be (hopefully a resort somewhere exotic).

The two occasions where this travel shoe really shines is during airline travel and while staying at warm weather resorts. Whether you like to keep your toes contained during long flights or set them free, this is the right footwear for the job. The light and airy design is great for warm weather because it breaths so well and minimizes stress on your feet. If water is involved, this slip-on also dries very quickly.

IRead more: Best Travel Pants

The Ravello Loafer could be described as a house slipper disguised as a loafer, and we mean that in the best way possible. Constructed from a soft textile upper and a flexible rummer outsole, you get the cozy feel of your favorite lounge shoes, but dressier. Even though it isn't leather, Rothys checked all the necessary boxes with this loafer. It pulls off business casual and cocktail attire with ease.

This is the ideal shoe for summer destination weddings because you don't have to pack any other footwear, except maybe some sandals . You can wear this loafer while traveling, especially if a flight is involved, and you can also wear it with a light summer suits . Doing any sight seeing while you're there? This comfy slip on is supportive enough to walk around in all day.

Designed for work, yet cozy enough for play, the Snibbs ROVR is an ideal travel sneaker because it provides all-day comfort. Chef Daniel Schemtob consulted with two doctors to design a lifestyle shoe that can be worn in hot and slipper work environments. The resulting sneaker is not only optimized for restaurant workers and medical professionals, it benefits anyone who spends most of the day on their feet. For example; a tourist who wants to pack all the major sights of a city into a single trip.

A knit mesh upper is lightweight and breathable to combat sweaty feet. Under that, an EVA molded midsole provides ample cushion and bounce in every step. Designed to slip on and off, the upper hugs your foot like a sock. It can even handle those mad dashes to catch your connecting flight.

Read more: Most Comfortable Sneakers

Some brands really do make 'em like they used to. The Portuguese shoemaker is new to the American market by way of an exclusive partnership with Huckberry. A soft leather interior and padded footbed are meant to go barefoot. With a waxy finish on the upper, there is minor water resistance.

Thanks to a classic leather plain toe look, this travel slip-on works with a wide variety of looks. We like to wear it with everything, from a casual chino suit to swim trunks .

What really sets this mule apart is the crepe outsole. You typically find the material on desert boots and the odd chelsea boot , but it is actually ideal for a travel shoe. The spongy composite is shock absorbing and provides an almost sticky grip. When it wears out—which will happen sooner than later—it is the cheapest type of sole to replace.

Espadrilles are a type of footwear, originating in Spain, with a cotton canvas upper sewn to a woven jute sole. Jute is a rope made from braided plant fiber, similar to hemp. It makes for a light, durable, and supportive footbed that is breathable and naturally moisture regulating. All of these factors make espadrilles perfectly suited for warm weather travel, especially at beaches, lakes, and pools.

Soludos is one of the few major brands still selling authentic espadrilles with real jute soles. Every pair is handcrafted in a way that makes them repairable when any wear and tear occurs. The Seville Smoking Slipper has a cotton canvas upper with a classic slipper shape that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making for easy vacation styling. Stowing this slipper away is even easier, as it flattens to take up about as much room as a pair of flip-flops.

Hey Dude has taken men's footwear by storm over the past couple of years. The shoes are also super easy to throw on, making them a pair of great summer shoes. Best of all is the fact it is insanely affordable too. Simply put, don't knock 'em until you try 'em.

As long as the attire is casual, there really is no wrong setting for this low-key slip-on. Relaxed vibes are practically sewn right into the sole. However, if you're headed to a watery local, like a beach, lake, or water park, then Hey Dudes really shine. The cushy sole floats in water, so that avoids any sinking mishaps. The whole shoe also dries off very quickly, so it as about as water friendly as a shoe can get.

Read more: Best Swim Trunks

Dress shoes for traveling can actually be comfortable. Take this pair of oxfords from Amberjack. Named The Original, this shoe is built with heat-activated arch support, durable outsoles, and breathable upper materials (especially suede). Best of all is the fact it can be worn with business casual fits and with more formal business attire.

Think of this travel shoe as optimizing your business trips. The dual density outsole, which is softer in the heel for cushioning and harder at the arch for support, is built to handle extensive walking. If you have to sprint to catch a train, hike from security to your gate, or show out on the dance floor, this is the oxford you want to be wearing.

Read more: Most Comfortable Dress Shoes

If you're going for cushioning, then a pair of Hoka's latest Clifton 9 running shoes will serve you right. The Clifton line has been a staple for our fitness editorsm thanks to its lightweight build and supreme level of comfort. When paired up with something dressier, like a loafer for warm weather or an oxford for cooler temperatures, you can cover pretty much any travel situation with.

It won't necessarily pack well in a travel backpack or personal item because of its high-stack cushioning, but if you wear it from point A to point B, you can also double up and have them as a walking shoe or workout shoe on your trip. In fact, it's entirely possible you could go on an entire trip with just this pair of shoes if you really wanted to one-bag-travel the whole thing.

Wearing your favorite boots while you travel is a simple hack to free up space in your suitcase. So which pair of boots are the best? We're big on Blundstones. The #585 is tough as nails, comfortable as heck (with little to no break-in period), and easy to slip on and off. As a Chelsea boot, it pairs well with jeans or chinos for an on-the-go outfits. You can get at least a week out of a couple pairs of pants and a few shirts with this single shoe.

If cold temperatures and precipitation are in the forecast for your vacation, this rugged Chelsea boot will serve you well. The upper is waterproof and the outsole provides slip-resistant traction. While this travel boot isn't insulted, when paired with a good boot sock , it is very warm. Any mud or dirt can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth, to avoid bringing any mess along for the next leg of your adventure.

Read more: Best Chelsea Boots

What Else to Consider

Versatility.

Regardless of where your personal needs lie, your travel shoes must be versatile. You don't want to wear them once on the plane and then never again on your trip. That's just dead weight. Hence the reason why our travel shoes above can feel a bit like a mixed bag. Some of our travel shoe picks are great for lounging once you get to your destination, while others are made to power through your entire trip, whether it be a formal dinner event or a day full of walking.

Read more: How to Pack Like a Pro

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The 9 Best Men's Travel Shoes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We ran 21 travel shoes through their paces

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Tripsavvy / Kristin Kempa

Traveling with more than a couple of pairs of shoes is difficult, so planning for a trip demands comfortable, practical footwear and a jack of all trades.

Different types of travelers will have different needs, and some folks may need to bring more than one pair, no matter how hard they look for the one perfect travel shoe. For example, business travelers often need a formal option but still bring athletic footwear to stay active away from home. To address as many types of travelers as possible, we’ve presented our top picks in a range of categories below.

Our testers took 19 shoes and boots and put them through their paces at home and while traveling to evaluate comfort, style, durability, and value.

Final Verdict

Other travel shoes we tested, how we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, hoka men's clifton 9 running shoe.

Marshmallow-soft cushioning

Bold and neutral colorways

Regular width runs a bit narrow

The Clifton from Hoka One One is the running shoe that made the brand the footwear juggernaut it is today, and the plush comfort of the ninth iteration of the shoe makes it our top overall travel shoe pick. The shoe provides breathable all-day comfort and does double-duty as a training and running shoe while on the road. While Hokas gained popularity with runners at first, the legendary comfort has gained the brand devotees from outside the running community, and our tester appreciated the all-day comfort of walking around a city, exercising on a rec path, and even indoors.

The shoes haven’t lost any running cred—the rockered sole makes for efficient runs, and the durable outsole helps them last for more miles, whether walking through an airport or running park paths. They’re also great for general training, so you won’t need to switch shoes to hit the hotel gym. Hokas are known for a somewhat narrow fit, but luckily the wide sizes are readily available if you have a normal to wide foot or just want a roomier fit.

Sizes: 5 to 16 (regular and wide) | Materials: EVA midsole, mesh upper | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Sustainability: Recycled materials, vegan

Tripsavvy / Mariah Tyler

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Allbirds tree dasher 2.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

Relaxed style

Carbon-neutral production

Easy to wear on long days

Lacks upper structure

Allbirds Tree Dasher is a running shoe, but the single-color all-fabric mesh upper disguises that fact enough that it doesn’t scream "running shoe" and can double as a casual fashion shoe perfect for travel. We also appreciate the company’s sustainability commitment, though you wouldn’t know from wearing it that the materials are all plant-based.

Our tester appreciated how breathable the TENCEL mesh upper (made from eucalyptus tree fiber) was and said they “almost feel like socks.” Because of this, our tester was concerned that the Allbirds might not be as supportive as a stiffer, more traditional running shoe, but we didn’t find any durability issues during testing.

At just above 10 ounces, the Tree Dashers are slightly heavier than the Hoka Clifton and don’t quite have the running pedigree of those shoes, but they also look less like a runner for those who want a less sporty look while traveling.

Sizes: 8 to 14 | Materials: TENCEL Lyocell upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole, merino wool heel lining | Weight: 10.2 ounces | Sustainability: Climate Neutral-certified, bio-based, and recycled materials

Tripsavvy / Ivy Ford

Best Budget

Vans comfycush old skool.

• Comfort 4 /5

Many fun styles/colorways

Improved, hardier model

Classic aesthetic

Mostly suited to urban terrains

While they look just like classic Vans, these are the Comfycush update of the original, which adds a springier foam midsole and padded heel collar and removes some rubber to make the shoes lighter. Our tester had owned several pairs of Vans in the past and said the Comfycush update was noticeable in terms of comfort but also made them feel more durable despite being a budget option.

The skate shoe style goes with anything (if your style is casual) and is light enough for all-day wear. The limitation of these shoes is that they aren’t great for running, though you could certainly wear them for a light workout. The waffle-pattern sole also doesn’t provide much in the way of off-road traction, but the rubber does offer good grip.

Sizes: 5 to 14.5 | Materials: Canvas upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 12 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Tripsavvy / Alessandra Amodio

Best for Running

On running men's cloud 5.

Versatile closure options

Waterproof version available

Slightly annoying design flaw

You’ve likely seen Swiss-engineered On shoes on commuters, in the gym, and at the airport, even if you don’t know the brand name. These are athletic shoes, and the brand calls itself a running brand, but the style and comfort have brought them to the masses for everyday wear and especially travel.

The Cloud 5 is the latest evolution of their core running sneaker, and our tester appreciated how lightweight they are even when running errands around town. We also liked how easily they slip on and off, which comes in handy when hustling through airport security. (The Cloud 5s come loaded with On’s speed lacing system but are also packaged with traditional laces.)

The signature CloudTec soles with their hollow cylinders are the defining characteristic of these runners and provide much of the comfort (along with the Zero Gravity foam midsole). But as anyone who’s worn On Cloud’s knows, these holes and the trench down the midfoot of the sole can pick up debris, such as rocks, while walking or running.

Sizes: 7 to 14 | Materials: Recycled polyester upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Sustainability: 44 percent recycled materials

Best Hiking Shoe

Altra lone peak 7.

• Cushioning/Knee Protection 4.4 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Responsiveness 3.8 /5
• Stability 5 /5

Wide-foot friendly

Burly, all-terrain traction

Lack of incline is particular

Our outdoor gear editor calls these kicks the best travel shoes he's owned. And for good reason. These zero-drop shoes are super comfortable and allow room for foot swelling during long flights or road trips. They also serve as a do-everything shoe as certain colors look good enough for casual office and dining settings, and the trail-running nature of the shoe makes them ideal for hiking and off-road running. (They'll also work for running on pavement.)

The zero-drop (there is no difference in height from your heel to your front foot) may not be for everyone, but we dig the minimalist feel and design. But if you're looking for a shoe you can wear from the plane to the trail, we can't think of a better option.

Sizes: 7 to 15 (regular and wide) | Materials: Altra Ego midsole and Maxtrac outsole | Weight: 11 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Blundstone Men’s Classic 550 Chelsea Boots

• Durability 3.5 /5

Timeless aesthetic

No break-in period

Easy to slip on and off

Can’t be re-soled

Tasmania, Australia’s Blundstone has been making boots like these for 130 years, so their classic Chelsea boots provide a proven, stylish design and a record of craftsmanship and quality. Unlike some urban boots that require weeks of heavy use to conform to your foot, our tester appreciated the “out of the box” comfort of the Blundstone Chelsea boots.

That comfort is thanks to a Shock Protection System (SPS) paired with a comfort footbed (they come with two different footbed options to select the one best for your foot shape). A TPU midsole paired with extra foam padding in the heel strike zone sets the Chelsea boots apart from many other urban boots that look cool but skimp on comfort.

Because of their classic style and comfort, these boots can be the only footwear you need for a trip. They obviously come up short for any athletic pursuits, though the lugged outsoles are capable enough for light hiking. But packing a lightweight pair of trainers might be the only addition to your luggage if you continue to train or run while on the road.

Sizes: 4 to 14 | Materials: Leather upper, TPU outsole | Weight: 16.9 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Best Hiking Sandals

Teva hurricane xlt2 sandals.

Active, capable fit for sandals

Solid traction

Limited to recreational activities

Sandals, in general, don't make great travel shoes. They might be comfortable for passing out on an airplane, but they show their shortcomings when walking between terminals or around a city. Teva first solved this problem in the 1980s with its distinctive hook and loop strap system, which secures the rugged sole to the foot and makes them an all-day option well-suited to warm temperatures and time in and around water.

The Hurricane is a classic Teva style, and the XLT2 is the latest update, incorporating recycled materials and comfort upgrades in the heel strap and sole. Our tester loved the fit of their hiking-shoe-like soles out of the box, which only improved with break-in time.

They're great for beach vacations, and our tester gave them a go on a trip to Los Cabos, Mexico. Our tester appreciated their versatile comfort, especially on beach walks in coarse sand where bare feet hurt and flip-flops don't provide enough structure. The tester's biggest challenge was dialing in the strap system, and we recommend leaving the heel strap alone once you've found the ideal setting.

While the Hurricanes are great for travel, walking, light hiking, and water sports, they're limited in cooler temperatures, though you can always wear warm socks with them (embrace the dad look) to extend their practical range. They also aren't always appropriate for more formal occasions, dinners, and such, so you likely will need to travel with another piece of footwear unless you're on an exclusively casual trip.

Sizes: 5 to 17 | Materials: REPREVE polyester webbing, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10.3 ounces | Sustainability: Recycled polyester webbing, recyclable, vegan

Tripsavvy / Jason Horn

Best for the Environment

Allbirds wool runner mizzles.

• Quality 4.5 /5

Thoughtful protective coating

Sock-like comfort

Relaxed athleisure appearance

Wool can get bunched up

Allbirds footwear is generally sustainability-first, and these wool casual running shoes are no exception, with recycled and bio-based materials throughout. They also offer great casual style and, as our tester exclaimed, "the comfort of a slipper without having the appearance of a slipper."

Allbirds calls these runners, but they're more like casual sneakers in a runner's style. For a running shoe, the soles are basic and smooth, and the soft wool upper lacks structure and support (though our tester noted that they lace up very securely). While you could run in them, and the SweetFoam midsole provides enough cushion, these are probably best for walking, an occasional light run or hike, and low-intensity training. Because of the slipper-like upper, our tester pointed out that the shoe developed some folding and wrinkling, and high-intensity exercise would likely only exacerbate the issue.

While merino wool is excellent for natural breathability and antimicrobial properties, it might not be your first choice for durability and weather protection. Thankfully, Allbirds addresses this with a bio-based waterproofing treatment to help keep your feet dry.

Sizes: 8 to 14 | Materials: ZQ-certified wool upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Sustainability: Climate Neutral-certified, bio-based materials, recycled materials, FSC-certified rubber

Best Splurge

Apl techloom tracer.

• Comfort 4.3 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

A trainer at the core

Sturdy construction

Cool, understated aesthetic

Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) is a “luxury performance” brand that sells $400 basketball shoes (banned by the NBA!) and a wide array of running and training shoes with premium proprietary materials and premium price tags to match.

Even though the TechLoom Tracer is more of a performance training shoe, you can see a bit of the basketball shoe roots in the shoe’s profile. While distinctly a sneaker, it may appeal to folks who like Nike style but want something more subdued and comfortable. (The APL logo is tastefully small and keeps the look neutral.)

The shoe is very structured compared to most running shoes and casual sneakers, which is a boon to performance and will likely help the shoes hold their shape over time and use, though dedicated runners may want to stick to actual running shoes. The aggressive lacing system also allows you to crank down a secure fit, making them an excellent option for people needing to stick with high-intensity training even while traveling. Our tester noted that the shoe initially felt stiff but broke in over the first few wears to settle into more all-day comfort.

The biggest hang-up on these shoes is the price tag. But if you don’t mind the spend and need a travel shoe that can stand up to wear and high-intensity training, the TechLoom Tracers may be worth the investment.

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Materials: Propelium midsole, Lycra collar, TechLoom upper, rubber outsole | Weight: 7.1 ounces | Sustainability: Not listed

Tripsavvy / Karen Chen

Setting the bar for comfort, the Hoka Clifton 9 is the newest version of one of the brand's classic running shoes. It doubles as a trainer and you'll appreciate it under your feet on those notoriously long travel days. Our runner-up, the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 , is a stylish and sustainable pick.

Adidas Men's Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe : A good all-around athletic shoe, but our tester struggled to put them on and didn't appreciate slippage in the heel during use.

York Athletics The Henry Runner : Billed as the only shoe you need, these sneaker hybrids were comfortable, but our tester didn't love the "restaurant worker" appearance of the all-black model.

Kuru Atom Shoes : An all-around casual sneaker that didn't differentiate itself from its competitors in our testing.

Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe: A Crocs-style sneaker designed by a sports podiatrist to provide comfort in a simple, injection-molded design. A more practical choice for athletic types who like the comfort of Crocs but want more of a sneaker for travel.

Thursday Boots Low Top : These dressed-up leather sneakers provide versatility in where and how they can be worn, but our tester didn't love the breathability and lack of support from the insoles.

Olukai Mōlina : We loved this waterproof hiker that's stylish enough to wear out but capable enough for rugged hikes. It may get warm/sweaty in certain environments.

Cole Haan Men's Howland Penny Loafer : An attractive shoe that's great for more formal trips but not ideal for all-day walking comfort.

ECCO Men's Sandals Multisport Outdoor Shoes : Though billed as a "multisport" sandal, our tester didn't feel they lived up to the billing in terms of fit and capability.

Our testing pool included more than a dozen testers from different areas of the country who tested 21 shoes close to home and on the road, from city streets to sandy beaches. We tested a range of footwear, from boots to penny loafers to running shoes, and evaluated each pair for the same criteria, including comfort, style, versatility, value, and quality.

What to Look For in Travel Shoes

Type of shoe.

For many people shopping for a travel shoe, the type of shoe they need will be the easiest way to narrow their search. If you normally travel by plane with nothing more than a piece of carry-on luggage and need a single shoe you can wear for travel, business meetings, and everything in between, a neon running shoe might not fit your needs. Conversely, a fashion-first boot isn't a great fit if you only travel for pleasure and like to stay active away from home. Weather is another easy way to eliminate contenders. If you live and travel in cold and snowy regions, boots are likely the only option, while tropical travelers will want to consider sandals or other lightweight, breathable options. Broadly speaking, most footwear that's in the running for a good travel shoe falls into a few categories: athletic sneakers, formal shoes, sandals, and boots.

For most people in the US, a reasonably fashionable sneaker is acceptable in most social settings and can serve multiple purposes for commuting, eating out, and more active pursuits. For this reason, our top recommendations tend to favor this footwear style since it can accommodate a broader range of travelers' needs.

Sport sandals are a great vacation option as they are walkable and play nice in the water while letting your feet breathe. In colder climates, boots are your best option, and they generally do double-duty as a more formal option for business travel. If you're mainly shopping for business trips, you may want to consider sacrificing some comfort to look the part, though, if you can afford the space, consider carrying two pairs of shoes: one for exercise and comfort while commuting and the other when you need to dress things up. Your feet will thank you.

Depending on the style, most shoppers can expect to pay between $70 and $200 for a good travel shoe. Cheaper options are available, but the savings will often be at the cost of comfort, style, or both. More expensive options usually fall into the formal shoe or boot categories, where you’ll pay a premium for style and quality. For the casual athletic footwear featured prominently in our top picks above, expect to pay between $90 and $150.

Wearability

Most sneaker-style shoes are fairly comfortable directly out of the box and don’t require much break-in. If they aren’t reasonably comfortable on first wear, there may be a fit issue, and your best bet is to try another model that fits your foot better. If you have a store nearby where you can try several pairs of sneakers to compare fit and comfort, do it, even if you ultimately buy online.

Boots, especially leather fashion-first options, require more break-in and may not feel plush until you’ve logged some serious miles on them. That said, if comfort is a top priority for you, consider a boot with sneaker-like comfort, such as the Blundstone Chelsea boots we recommend above.

If you’re looking for footwear that can handle your athletic pursuits in addition to providing comfort on the road, you may want to start with sport-specific footwear such as the Hoka Clifton or On Cloud 5s we recommend above. They’re running shoes that happen to make great travel shoes as well.

Unsurprisingly, a good travel shoe is generally a lighter model. The caveat is that most of a shoe's weight comes from the midsole, which is the powerhouse of comfort and support. Therefore, the best travel shoes strike the right balance of weight and comfort. Not all manufacturers or retailers publish weights, but the Hoka Clifton 9 , for example, tips the scales at 8.7 ounces each. In comparison, the Blundstone 550 Chelsea comes in at about twice that (16.9 ounces to be exact, which for a sturdy boot is more than reasonable). Pro tip: If a weight is listed it is generally for a single shoe unless otherwise specified. Keep in mind that weight increases or decreases according to size.

Some people would say to bring as many as you can carry, while the more minimalist traveler might say you should only bring as many as you need. The ideal scenario, of course, is to have one pair of shoes that work for all occasions, and this is easier to do in certain climates and for certain types of travelers. Because shoes are generally space-eaters in luggage, we recommend trying to bring two to three pairs of footwear at most, if possible. Usually, most travelers can get by with two: one pair of sneakers for activewear and comfortable travel, and another pair to dress things up as needed. As veteran travelers, we can confidently say that you’ll be glad if you can minimize your outfits and footwear (and thus luggage weight and volume) while traveling.

Cleaning and care of footwear is going to be unique to the types of materials used, and you should always consult manufacturer recommendations for cleaning since they know exactly what materials are at play and what cleaning methods will be effective.

As a general rule, leather footwear needs fairly regular cleaning and treatment to get the best comfort and to extend the life of the shoes or boots. Saddle soap is a great all-around cleaner and conditioner that provides some water resistance.

Sneakers tend to use a mix of materials and are harder to clean, but there are lots of generic sneaker cleaners on the market. We like Pink Miracle for our sneakers, but you’ll want to be sure it works for your particular brand and model.

Simple footwear such as Crocs or Kane’s Revive shoes have the advantage of both not really showing dirt in the first place and being very straightforward to clean when they do. If you don’t want to go that bare bones for your travel shoes, look for shoes that are darker in color or are straightforward to clean and, ideally, stain-resistant.

Shoes and boots that slip on and off easily are your best bet for dealing with TSA protocols. We highlight this aspect of several of our picks above, including the On Cloud 5 running shoes and the Blundstone Chelsea boots. The worst choices for the airport are boots and shoes with complicated laces or those that need to be laced tight since you’ll need to undo them on one side of security and redo them on the other. It’s also nice to be able to easily kick shoes on and off when you get a moment to kick back.

Justin Park is a veteran traveler who has visited five of the seven major continents and used to log nearly a half-million miles in air travel annually for business. He considers himself a minimalist in travel but isn’t scared to check a bag and usually travels with two pairs of shoes. His current go-to travel shoes are Danner Trail 2650s , which are comfortable and sporty enough for hiking and running but not quite a sneaker in terms of style.

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The Very Best Workout Shoes for Men

For cross-training, hiit workouts, weight lifting, and more..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best (less expensive) overall
• Best for weight lifting
• Best trendy
• Best for everyday wear
• Best for tennis and pickleball
• Best for outdoor
• Best for running

I have been using workout shoes for as long as I can remember, and those shoes have evolved over the years from the pair of beat-up Nikes I wore in high school to the Asics and Converses I had for the weight room and gym throughout college and after. Nowadays, I have a rotating cast of different pairs because most workout shoes are built for specific activities, like running , weight lifting , basketball , tennis , or hiking , among others.

Finding a good do-it-all sneaker is a harder task than it seems. Though wearing your running shoes for all your workouts might not be the worst crime in the world, it should be avoided as much as possible, because the vast majority of running shoes are built specifically for forward movement, and their constructions don’t provide the stability needed for lateral movement that a basketball or tennis shoe would lend. ( It’s the perfect recipe for a rolled ankle. )

In testing numerous pairs over the past decade, I have learned a good workout shoe meets a few key criteria: It is cushioned and grippy and gives extra support without just propelling you forward. Even though there are differences between the type of support you need depending on the activity you do most often, most of these sports share similar movements that require the same thing: a stable, comfortable base for a variety of forward and lateral movements. That’s why a lot of the shoes in this list are cross-trainers; they lend stability and are made to move, push, jump, and jog in.

Based on my personal testing (using them in gyms and in weight rooms) and the recommendations from the experts I spoke to for this article — including personal trainers, weight-lifting coaches, fitness writers, and product designers who have spent hours working out in gyms and fitness classes — these are the best all-around men’s workout shoes. I’ve noted where each of these shoes excels most: be it for jogging with a mix of HIIT, lots of heavy weight training, or hitting the trails for a sweaty uphill hike. And when it comes to style, don’t fret — a few of the pairs I featured below can double as the pair you lift in but also wear to a weekday-night bar hang with friends. (And if you’re looking for something to run in, check out my guide to the best running shoes .)

What we’re looking for

A supportive build is crucial for running, moving side to side, and for any workout involving weights. I look for features like flat soles, secure, non-flimsy upper constructions around the forefoot, and reinforcements around the shoe’s tongue, the toe box, and your ankle — all of which will help to give you a stable base to push off from, and thus help prevent foot or leg injuries. (“Rule No. 1 in fitness is don’t get hurt and rule No. 2 is reread rule No. 1,” says trainer and entrepreneur Percell Dugger , who says the right shoes are critical to following these rules.)

Shoes more geared toward weight lifting will have a flatter, denser midsole with less cushion, while some of the running-focused shoes on this list will have a thicker midsole with a plusher feel. Louis Coraggio , a health coach and the founder of Body Architect and TrampoLEAN, says good workout shoes should feel comfortable right away — they shouldn’t feel as if you have to break them in. At the end of the day, it comes down to what’s most comfortable for you, and I’ve included for each shoe on this list how much cushion you can expect by rating it from heavy to light.

Good workout shoes will provide solid traction to keep you on your feet, whether you’re doing box jumps, lunges, or jogging on pavement. I’m looking for shoes with good “tires” that are suited to their activity: Some outsoles have balder rubber bottoms, built for flatter gym surfaces, while others in this list have deeper lugs that can handle surfaces like asphalt and dirt trails.

Best workout shoe overall

Support: Thick upper construction | Cushion: Medium | Outsole: Maximum grip

I’ve been wearing the Metcons for gym workouts for the past four years, and besides some light tread wear on the soles, they’ve held up to all types of workouts, including weight lifting, rowing, HIIT sessions, and treadmill warm-up runs. The Metcon’s stable sole and accommodating fit make it my top recommendation for any sweat session — minus training for a marathon.

While some folks opt to wear running shoes for lifting and cardio, most fitness pros I spoke to say it’s worth investing in a pair of shoes better suited for all-purpose workouts — like Nike’s Metcon. Sean Sewell, a personal trainer who runs the gear-review site Engearment , says that while running shoes have “a bit of a lift in the heel that helps for comfort when running,” that can make it hard to achieve “proper alignment” in other kinds of workouts. Todd Brandon-Morris, the founder of inclusive fitness brand Out-Fit , says the Metcon should be “the standard for any versatile athlete” because they’re “firm enough for heavy weight lifting” but also great for jumping and running. Sewell tells us they’re also very popular in the CrossFit community: “They are lightly cushioned and have little to no heel lift, making them good for proper biomechanics when performing deadlifts, squats, swings, and snatches,” he says, adding that they have “good tactile feedback too.”

“For general gym-training purposes, I’ve been wearing Nike Metcons for years,” says Dr. Clinton Lee , a Brooklyn-based certified strength and conditioning specialist. “They’re lightweight, and many models have a relatively flat sole (which I prefer for lower-body training), and they look good. There are options to get previous editions from outlet stores for inexpensive prices, and Nike always has new iterations popping up in case you want something more recent.”

Best (less expensive) overall workout shoe

Support: Wide, stretchy toe box with laced, socklike tongue | Cushion: Medium | Outsole: Medium grip

The Nike Free was my main workout shoe for about five years, and I’ve used various versions of it since the Nike Free Flyknit was released in 2013. The Nike Free Run 5.0 is similar to its predecessors: It has a stretchy fabric upper, a relatively low profile, and a medium amount of cushion. If you want an easy shoe to wear to the gym for all types of sports and the occasional run — at an affordable price — I highly recommend the Free Run 5.0. (Plus, I always spot it on sale for well under $100.)

Chris Chung , a New York–based running-and-fitness-content creator, says lifting in the Nike Frees feels “almost like wearing a sock.” Chung uses an older model of the Nike Free — the Flyknit 3.0 — but the knit upper of the latest version, the 5.0, offers the same flexibility and socklike feel. “I like to have more freedom in my feet when I’m lifting,” says Chung, who prefers a more flexible sole that allows him to feel the ground. “It feels more natural to me.”

Best workout shoe for weight lifting

Support: Wide toe box and lacing reinforcement| Cushion: Light | Outsole: Medium grip

Altra shoes are known for two main features: a generously wide toe box that allows you splay out your feet, and a zero-drop heel, which means your heel and toe are level within the shoe. Many customers love the brand for this one-two punch of comfort, especially for hiking and outdoor pursuits. But it turns out that this design is perfect for the weight room, too. I’ve been testing the Solstice for a full year now (I even reviewed it previously as an editor at Outside ), and its wide and flat base gives me — and my legs — confidence during heavy lifts. It also has a rubbery reinforcement cage around the forefoot and laces, which keeps my feet even more locked in.

When it comes to lifting weights, Dugger and many other experts say you want a shoe with as much of a barefoot feel as possible. This allows you to fully plant your feet into the ground, which helps avoid injuries. “Research has shown that a lot of shoes with very thick soles can weaken your ankles over time,” explains Dugger, who adds that “injuries like ankle sprains and knee problems all start with your feet and footwear.” The Solstice XT 2’s lightly cushioned sole and zero drop are just what you need for that barefoot feel.

Best trendy workout shoes

Support: Tight speed-lacing system | Cushion: Heavy | Outsole: Medium grip

As I spend time in gyms around New York City, I always try to keep track of the workout shoes I see most often. Right now, On is by far the most popular brand, which has been our observation for the past couple of years: When my colleagues reached out to fitness influencers and experts to find the next status gym sneaker for men, On Running’s Cloud line was the clear choice when it came to both style and substance. The Cloud 5 is still the statusy workout shoe I see the most. Master personal trainer Ariel Brill told us that these “are my favorite for running,” adding, “I ran a marathon in this exact pair and I felt like I was truly running on a cloud, when in reality, I was on hard pavement.” While these are branded as a running sneaker, many find they also make a great all-purpose gym and training shoe. As style editor Ted Stafford told us when we asked him about status gym sneakers, “Guys who are looking for a training sneaker with the latest innovation for comfort and performance should try On Running training sneakers as soon as they can. They’ll be hooked.” A few associates at Fleet Feet in New York told me that the On Cloud 5 is one of the most popular shoes they sell. They did say that the “cloud”-shaped cushions are polarizing, and that customers often either try them on and love them or hate them. So before you buy these, my advice would be to make sure you’re shopping at a place with a flexible return or exchange policy.

The Cloudstratus is similar to the Cloud 5 above, but it’s built with slightly more cushioning that will favor runners. That extra oomph in the sole makes it a comfortable option for all types of gymgoers, though. Ralph Lauren creative producer Yale Breslin says the Cloudstratus are his go-to shoes for a variety of workouts thanks to their plush cushioning. “The sole gives a little bit of bounce, which makes what I think is the most mundane activity a little more fun,” he says. “Plus, in a plethora of black tank tops and black shorts at Equinox, these stand out.”

Best workout shoes for everyday wear

Support: Wide toe box, high, cushioned heel counter | Cushion: Heavy | Outsole: Medium grip

While I don’t recommend working out in running shoes, I do make some exceptions — like the Clifton 9. It’s the first gym shoe I recommend to people if they’re looking for more cushioning, or if they tell me they want a comfortable shoe for walking . It has a thick sole that’s easy on my knees and it’s relatively low to the ground, so it provides more side-to-side stability than a taller, higher stacked running shoe (so I haven’t worried about rolling an ankle). I’ve put in over 100 miles in the Clifton 9 for distance running, and while its cushioning has lost its springiness a bit, I started using them solely for walking or running errands, and they’ve been easy on my feet. The Clifton 9 should fit most people, but it’s also available in wide sizing .

Support: Thick tongue | Cushion: Heavy | Outsole: Medium grip

A pair of 990s is suitable for just about everything: travel , date night , walking around , and the gym. Its cushioned midsole and discreet dad-sneaker look make it a shoe you can dress up or down and wear for both relaxed and more active pursuits. I reach for my 990s when I want to give my feet a break after a long day of being stuffed into stiff dress shoes. And because I like to wear them for so many different occasions, I try to keep them clean by using them strictly for gym sessions and not outdoor workouts, where they’d likely get grimier. The 990s will fit most feet; they come in a ton of sizes and widths . (We also selected the 990v5 as the best women’s workout shoe for everyday wear .) Strategist writer and self-described gym rat Tembe Denton-Hurst likes her 990s because they offer “incredible support and are super-comfortable to walk in.”

Support: High ankle support | Cushion: Medium | Outsole: Medium grip

While a pair of classic Dunks may seem more fitting for wearing out, it also fits the bill as an ideal gym shoe: It has a low profile, ample cushioning, and support — particularly around the ankle. Lee prefers doing squat workouts in Jordan 1s and Nike Dunks in various colorways. “Not for any performance-related purposes,” he tells me. “It’s just that they’re fun, I love the way they look, and for the amount of time I spend in the gym, I need something different than typical sneakers or weight-lifting shoes, so I rock these for the fashion aspect.”

Support: Thick, cushioned heel counter | Cushion: Medium | Outsole: Medium grip

Brooks is known primarily for its running shoes, but the brand also makes more casual models, such as this suede pair for walking. Since the Addiction Walker isn’t meant for running or quick movements, it’s highly cushioned and offers a supportive feel. Coraggio likes it for everyday workouts. “I have low arches and tight calves that have forced me to be very foot-conscious since I was 12 years old,” he tells me. “I am very focused on gait and foot mechanics.”

Best less-expensive workout shoes for everyday wear

Support: High laces lend ankle support | Cushion: Medium | Outsole: Medium grip

Another sneaker that also appeared in our status gym-shoe roundup, the high-top Converse All Star has a cult following among weight lifters due to its completely flat sole. (It’s also the only weight-lifting shoe we heard about multiple times.) When I know I’m going to be weight lifting and not doing any cardio-related exercises, I throw on my Chucks. Product designer Amardeep Singh also uses his flat-soled All Star high-tops for weight lifting: He prefers the ’70 model featured here, which has a thicker sole, telling us you’ve “got to keep it flat if you’re lifting.” Sewell seconds the Converse recommendation, adding that they’re the next best thing to going barefoot (which he says “allows for the most beneficial alignment of the body if you really want to train hard with heavier weights”). There’s killer value here: It’s good for your wardrobe (and your wallet) that one of the best weight-lifting shoes is also an iconic, classic sneaker.

Support: Reinforced toe, flat sole | Cushion: Medium | Outsole: Medium grip

I’ve been alternating daily between two pairs of Fe Lo 1920s for two years, and I wear them mainly for walking around the city but also for weight lifting. They’re flat to the ground and don’t have much ankle support, but if you’re looking for a super-affordable gym shoe that you can beat up (and slide into your bag ), I recommend the Fe Lo. The primary areas of wear are in the heel counter, which is thin and has frayed but hasn’t caused any irritation against my heel.

Strategist U.K. contributor Anna Fielding is a fan of these stylish, affordable trainers from Feiyue that have their roots in versatile movement. “The trainers originated in 1920s Shanghai, where they were adopted by martial arts practitioners ,” she wrote. “These days parkour enthusiasts use them too, as do Chinese schoolchildren doing PE lessons and Shaolin monks. They are lightweight plimsolls, with a canvas body and a cushioned sole . They have bounce. They have grip. And unlike other plimsolls, they’re actually supportive.” Feiyue’s Fe Lo sneakers have a canvas upper that won’t bust open like a flimsy running shoe upper might. “You can easily wear them without socks, and — good for the sockless to know — I’ve also found they stand up to repeat washing-machine cycles,” Fielding continues. “They stay looking fresh, whites white and colours sharp, longer than any pair of Converse. They don’t fall to pieces, as Keds can, even if you treat them badly and kick them off without bothering to undo the laces.”

Best workout shoe for tennis and pickleball

Support: Low profile and cushioned collar | Cushion: Medium | Outsole: Heavy grip

Tennis shoes naturally make up some of the best all-purpose workout shoes. That’s because the sport requires both forward and lateral movement, and shoes that have a durable construction and thick tread to meet the demands of shuffling around the hard court. The Gel-Resolution is my top pick for the best men’s tennis shoe , and it got nods from five experts I spoke to for its versatile fit. Unlike other tennis shoes, the Gel-Resolution should fit anyone comfortably regardless of the width or volume of their feet. NYU’s head tennis coach, Horace Choy, said the Resolution is “very popular” with his team in part because the shoe’s low profile means you’re “closer to the ground, which I personally think makes you feel a little faster.” The Gel-Resolution is a relatively light shoe, and its secure fit allowed me to change up my game by playing faster and more aggressively. I also recommend this shoe for pickleball, which incorporates many of the same movements as tennis.

Best workout shoe for outdoor pursuits

Support: Zero heel-toe drop, wide footbed | Cushion: Heavy | Outsole: Lugs with high grip

Altra is known for its shoes with a “zero-drop” design (meaning the heel-to-toe drop is flat) and wide footbed, which allows your toes to splay out — two features intended to boost comfort. The brand’s most popular model is its Lone Peak, designed primarily for hiking , but I prefer the nimbler Outroad 2 — which has a slimmer footbed than the brand’s other models — for trail runs and walking on dirt and gravel trails. While the outsole has big lugs for gripping loose terrain, I’ve found that the Outroad doesn’t feel out of place on shorter road runs too.

Best workout shoe for running

Support: Cushioned tongue and collar | Cushion: Heavy | Outsole: Grippy tread for road running

Yes, you don’t want to use running shoes for all of your workouts, but if you’re looking for a basic running shoe that can also handle other activities from time to time, the Pegasus is your pick. In my guide to the best running shoes , I recommended the Air Zoom Pegasus if “you’d rather not think too much about your running shoes.” It’s been a staple of Nike’s running lineup ever since it was introduced nearly four decades ago, and its cushioning comes from a layer of the brand’s proprietary React foam in the midsole. It’s a workhorse of a shoe that is meant to be used for logging miles with daily training, so it will more than satisfy the occasional road run in addition to other aerobic workouts.

Other workout shoes we’ve written about

Our experts

• Yale Breslin, Ralph Lauren creative producer • Ariel Brill, personal trainer • Sanibel Chai , former Strategist junior writer • Louis Cheslaw , former New York Magazine associate editor • Horace Choy, NYU’s head tennis coach • Chris Chung , running-and-fitness-content creator Louis Coraggio , health coach and founder of Body Architect and TrampoLEAN • Tembe Denton-Hurst , Strategist writer • Percell Dugger , strength coach and founder of Fit for Us • Anna Fielding , Strategist contributor • Karen Iorio Adelson , former Strategist senior writer • Steven John , runner and Strategist contributor • Dr. Clinton Lee , certified strength and conditioning specialist • David Notis , former Strategist writer • Sean Sewell, personal trainer and owner at Engearment and Mountain Fitness School • Amardeep Singh , product designer • Ted Stafford , Men’s Health fashion director

Additional reporting by David Notis .

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The 15 Best Packable Running Shoes for Travel

If running is part of your daily routine, then it pays to invest in packable running shoes. After all, there will always come a time when you find yourself away from the comforts of home. With packable running shoes, you can always be ready to run whenever and wherever you may be.

Here are the 15 best packable running shoes for travel.

Saucony Men’s Liteform Miles Running Shoe

These are amazing shoes that are comfortable on the feet. They have memory foam in the soles that make running and walking a lot more tolerable. Light and breathable, the shoes provide a snug fit without being tight.

This running shoe has perhaps the most flexible outsole you’ll find. Made out of Triflex rubber compound, it yields benefits such as good traction and ground contact. The overlay, meanwhile, is designed to reduce wear and tear and prolong the shoe’s usability.

This running shoe is ultra-lightweight, so you will hardly notice it on your feet. The upper mesh is breathable and offers lots of airflow. This is an excellent running shoe to have if you live in a generally warm and dry climate.

Nike Odyssey React Flyknit 2 Men’s Running Shoe

This shoe offers a flyknit and synthetic rubber that is flexible, breathable, and lightweight. The midsole, meanwhile, offers synthetic material for superior support and durability. And because it comes from one of the revered brands in athletic wear, you can be assured of the quality of this running shoe.

The main difference of the React 2 from its predecessor is the flyknit upper. Form fitting, the upper stretches enough to fit the foot. It holds the foot securely while offering superior breathability.

The midsole is practically the same with plastic support for a firm and responsive platform. There is also extra rubber on the outsole designed to reduce strain on the feet and joints. This Nike shoe is very lightweight as well.

adidas Pureboost Go Shoes Men’s

This is a versatile shoe that you can use for running, walking, or even while strolling around the park. Comfortable and well-cushioned, the adidas Pureboost offers superior responsiveness. Its modern look may appeal more to the younger generation, but you won’t go wrong with this lightweight running shoe coming from the brand with three stripes.

The Pureboost Go features adidas’ Boost midsole designed to provide superior responsiveness. The midsole is noticeably wider compared to other running shoes from the brand, and it comes in handy when walking or running around busy areas.

The upper is made of flyknit material and offers superior breathability. Meanwhile, there are stitch reinforcements that can be found in the midfoot upper for significant support to the foot. It also offers a snug fit. This shoe is lightweight at around 10 ounces.

This shoe has a minimalistic modern look that makes it very versatile. You can use it for your daily runs or for a stroll in the mall.

Allbirds Wool Runners

Many runners have dubbed the Allbirds Wool Runners to be the most comfortable pair of running shoes around. Allbirds has only been operating for less than three years, but it has made a mark with these comfy and lightweight shoes.

The shoes are made of wool. To say that the shoes are super comfortable to wear would be an understatement. The insoles are soft that you won’t have to wear socks. The wool is also designed to reduce odor and wick in moisture.

These shoes are lightweight, too. To give you a better appreciation of how much these shoes weigh, each shoe is about .75 pound less than a Converse Low Top. This makes the Allbirds Wool Runners an excellent walking shoe too.

Xero Shoes Prio Running

Xero is a brand that made a name for itself in the production of huaraches and sandals . The Prio is thus the first performance running shoe of Xero and is marketed toward both hardcore and casual runners.

These running shoes are ideal for travel as you can pack it to the size of a baseball. It features a removable insole, giving users the option to run more barefoot. The shoe is lightweight at 9.3 ounces without the insole, making it more travel-friendly.

It is also made of vegan-friendly materials, including a nylon mesh and a couple of layers made of matte faux-leather, which is remarkably durable. It also features an inverted V strap, which is adjustable and lets users lock down the shoe for a snug fit.

New Balance Minimus 10V1 Trail

New Balance is one of the more reputable makers of running shoes. The Minimus 10V1 is a pair of trail shoes with a sleek and thin design that is a marked departure from the neon colors of many trainers. It is comfortable to wear with antimicrobial treatment to reduce bad odors.

This shoe is arguably the best for light trail running. It has a midfoot wrap that keeps the foot in place while its foam provides superior lightweight support. The outsole has flex grooves that are strategically placed for a natural run. The upper material, meanwhile, gives it a look that is distinct from its predecessor.

For more similar footwear, check out our guide to the best minimalist barefoot running shoes .

Hoka One One Hupana Wool

This shoe is a good everyday running shoe that you’ll find comfortable to wear all day long. It has a design that is a bit muted compared to other Hoka One One shoes.

The word Hupana means ‘spring back’ in Maori. Its outsole and midsole are made of RMAT material that comes from rubber EVA foam and noted for its durability and responsiveness. It is lightweight, too, at around 9 ounces.

This shoe feels smooth and responsive. It sustains a comfortable level of cushioning. The wool, meanwhile, naturally wicks moisture, and it provides antimicrobial properties to minimize foot odors.

You may also be interested in these awesome waterproof running shoes from our list. Be sure to browse them and pick your favorite pair.

New Balance 890V7

If you are serious about your workouts, then the New Balance 890V7 should be on your shortlist.

The 890V7 looks good and stylish, but wait until you wear them. Lightweight but offering superior protection, it can be an excellent choice for daily training. It features a flexible outsole and featherweight midsole for a clean and fast transition. The result is a shoe that is very responsive to any pace.

This budget running shoe features a single-layer knit fabric in the upper part. It is breathable and drains well. It wicks moisture while providing enough wiggle room for the feet.

Altra Escalante Racer 19

The Altra Escalante is a basic version of the Escalante road shoe featuring a firm midsole and a lightweight knit mesh upper. It is appropriate for people who are training for a marathon. Lightweight, comfortable, and durable, this is one of the best packable running shoes for travel.

The Altra Escalante Racer is around 8 ounces light, which makes it ideal for travel. It has a firm and thin midsole that gives responsive cushioning. Built into the midsole and outsole are grooves that are designed to let the feet flex naturally.

The outsole, meanwhile, is made of rubber that holds up well. It provides superior grip even when one is running on wet pavement. This is the type of shoe you will want to have when running on rainy days.

Feel free to combine them with some of the top running pants from our list.

Vivobarefoot Primus Trail FG

This is the shoe you will appreciate wearing when hitting the trails. Weighing 9.7 ounces, it is lightweight and thus a good pair to have when travelling. The mesh is breathable and delivers superior comfort. Its sole is designed to provide ample traction on rocky trails.

It also has a high abrasion rubber outsole that can handle wet ground and dry surfaces. The insole is around 3mm thick and should protect your feet well. It is also removable, so you can wear the shoe barefoot. The running shoes are tightened by Mountain Laces that have a toggle for adjusting the fit.

Be sure to also browse our list of the top running hoodies that will keep you warm and comfortable.

APL Techloom Phantom

Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) may be a relatively new brand in the athletic footwear industry, but its Techloom Phantom is a solid choice for a pair of running shoes. It is a low-cut running shoe that features the brand’s 3D Stretch TechLoom technology. Designed to move well with your feet, the Techloom Phantom is a good pair to have in your luggage as they will let you take a quick run wherever you may be.

The Phantom’s outsole is made of a proprietary material called Propelium that cushions the heel well so that you can run longer. Its tread pattern or grip sole is designed to provide superior traction. The midsole, meanwhile, gives superior comfort while maintaining the structural integrity of the shoe. The shoe is also designed with Techloom knit, which makes it breathable and comfortable to wear.

Reebok Fast Flexweave

The Reebok Fast Flexweave has a sleek look, but make no mistake about it— it offers a good fit and is very comfortable. Lightweight and flexible, it offers superior arch support. This pair of shoes are ideal for everyday walking or working out in the gym.

Its midsole is made of 3-D foam that provides superior and precise cushioning. You’ll love how stable and flexible you will be on this shoe. The low-cut heel design, meanwhile, facilitates quick transitions. The upper is breathable and stretchable as well. Weighing around 8 ounces, this running and gym shoe is light and easy to carry around.

New Balance Fresh Foam Lazr V2 HypoKnit

Under 10 ounces and $100, the Fresh Foam Lazr from New Balance is a definite steal. It has a sleek upper which is made from Hydroknit that tightens around parts of the feet requiring added support.

The outsole of the Lazr V2 HypoKnit is designed to provide stability and flexibility to the wearer. The midsole is data-inspired and aims to provide superior support. Meanwhile, the multi-layered upper gives excellent cushion.

The Lazr V2 Hypoknit weighs in at 9.7 ounces (size 10 for men), which makes it a good choice for people who are always on the go.

Under Armour SpeedForm Slingshot 2

Affordable, good-looking, and versatile, the SpeedForm Slingshot 2 from Under Armour is another excellent option for runners who want a travel-friendly pair of running shoes. It features a modern lacing system that secures underneath the midsole for a secure fit. It works well with the external heel counter of the shoe for a good lockdown.

Like its predecessor, the Slingshot 2 is constructed with Under Armour’s SpeedForm technology. This can give users the confidence to run on any terrain. The upper of the shoe is breathable while the outsole wraps the foot for a snug fit.

Puma Hybrid NX Shoes

Last but not least is this Puma shoe, which is very lightweight yet provides enough cushion for running. Its midsole has good cushioning and high rebound for hitting the track. It has foam and beads in the heel to provide a soft landing spot.

The upper is semi-knitted and breathable. It also has a flexible structure, which makes packing of the shoe even easier. The lacing system is customizable and comes with a short tongue. The outsole is made of 100% rubber and provides maximum grip.

The Right Packable Running Shoes

In choosing running shoes for travel, the first thing to consider is the ‘packability’ of the footwear. This may refer to the weight of the shoes. You obviously don’t want shoes that are heavy, as this can add up to the weight of your luggage. Shoes that are less than 10 ounces are considered lightweight.

You will also have to take into consideration the size of the shoes. It should not take up too much space in your bag. Collapsible shoes are ideal as you can squeeze them into your bag and let you pack other essential items.

The versatility of the shoes may also affect your buying decision. Running shoes that can also serve you well for a trip to the mall are always a great choice. Finding running shoes that can work well with your tux may be far-fetched but try to look for footwear that you can wear for a better part of your trip.

The packability of the shoes is just half of the story. There are other factors that can come into play when choosing running shoes for travel. One is the performance of the shoes. When we say performance, we refer to how well the kicks address your needs. Whether it is for training for an upcoming marathon or simply continuing your cardio workout program, think of your fitness goals and how well-suited the running shoe you have in mind is in achieving that objective.

Of course, you should also pay attention to the other parts of the shoe, like the midsole or the foam material between the upper and outsole. This is the part of the shoe that cushions the feet from impact forces. Look for a midsole that is neither too firm nor too soft. The outsole is the part of the shoe that comes in contact with the ground. Often made of rubber, it should be durable aside from providing traction without adding extra weight. There’s also the upper, or the part of the shoe that covers the entire foot. Look for a shoe with an upper that is durable and breathable.

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The 10 Best Men’s Travel Shoes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

For sleek and lightweight shoes that are also comfortable for travel, check out these options from Hoka to Vans.

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Travel + Leisure / Mariah Tyler

No matter where your travels take you, a pair of comfortable shoes is a necessity. For cold- and warm-weather trips, you’ll be thankful to have supportive footwear with you for walking through the airport and sightseeing.

When it comes to recommending the best men’s travel shoes, Travel + Leisure ’s team of expert product testers tried 20 pairs of comfy kicks. Whether we were walking, commuting, running, or working out, we evaluated each pair based on comfort, quality, value, and fit to compile our list of options below. We love the supportive fit and minimal design of the Hoka Clinton 8 sneakers for all types of travel activities. If sneakers aren’t your jam, we also have picks for comfy boots for the cold and cushioned sandals for tropical vacations.

Best Overall

Hoka one one clifton 8.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Responsiveness 5 /5
• Stability 5 /5

There is plenty of support and cushioning, and the minimalist design makes these a versatile pair of daily walking or running shoes.

These are performance shoes designed for running.

Hoka sneakers are known for being some of the best on the market, and we think so, too, after testing and loving the Clifton 8 running shoes. From heel to toe, the design of the sneakers is simple, lightweight, and, most importantly, extremely comfortable after we put some serious miles on them  around the city over a six-month period. The mesh upper is breathable for days when your feet get a little sweaty, and the padded tongue adds extra cushioning, so it doesn’t dig into the top of your foot. Hoka’s signature Meta-Rocker sole provides the foundation for an ultra-comfy sneaker, as the curved design feels supportive and bouncy, and the EVA midsoles have just the right amount of cushioning for a soft and absorbing feel for walking long distances.

When it comes down to quality, we’re confident these shoes will last for plenty of trips that are walking-heavy. The Hoka Clifton offers a lightweight and comfortable way to easily navigate a city or explore your own town.

The Details: 8 to 12.5 | Mesh, EVA, rubber

Travel + Leisure / Mariah Tyler

Best Budget

Vans comfycush old skool.

• Comfort 4 /5
• Quality 5 /5

These casual sneakers have just the right amount of arch support.

It might be difficult to slip these shoes on and off.

We’re happy to report that the Comfycush Old Skool sneakers have the same casual style as traditional Vans but boast built-in arch support that thoroughly impressed us with their comfort. Even after wearing these regularly for six months, the sole feels thick and supportive and the canvas upper fits snugly without feeling too tight. The high quality immediately stood out to us and the shoes felt more durable than other Vans we've tested.

The laces can be tied nearly up to the ankle, so they’re not the easiest shoes to slip on and off. However, we love that even with the laces tied up, the tongue doesn’t pinch or cause any discomfort, and we’re fans of the secure fit for walking long distances. While most Vans styles can cost over $100, we love that the Comfycush Old Skool sneakers are wallet-friendly and come with ample cushioning.

The Details: 3.5 to 13 | Canvas, cotton, rubber

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

Best Sustainable

Allbirds tree dasher 2.

The upper, midsole, and sole are all made using eco-friendly materials with a minimal carbon footprint.

They don't feel like heavy-duty shoes you would want to wear walking for miles.

We’re big fans of Allbird’s transparency when it comes to the sustainable materials and methods they use to make their products, including their Tree Dasher 2 sneakers. From heel to toe, these lightweight walking shoes are made with environmentally-friendly materials like a eucalyptus tree fiber upper, a sugarcane-based green EVA midsole, and an  FSC-certified natural rubber  outsole. We love that they're light enough that you could pack these without taking up too much weight in your luggage. Plus, after wearing these regularly for six months, we found them to be extremely comfortable, easy to take on and off, and they don't hurt on long flights.

Besides the sustainability factor, we love that the sneakers are super breathable, making them the ideal closed-toe shoe for tropical climates. While the soles are very soft and cushioned, we wish there was a tad more support for  walking long distances , but we were plenty comfortable while wearing the sneakers to work and running errands. When it rained, the upper did an excellent job warding off the elements, so we didn’t feel any dampness. After trying several pairs of Allbirds sneakers, these stood out for their breathable and sustainable design for traveling.

The Details: 8 to 14 | FSC-certified Tencel Lyocell (eucalyptus tree fiber), sugarcane-based green EVA, FSC-certified natural rubber

Travel + Leisure / Ivy Ford

Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles

• Quality 4.5 /5

They feel like wearing cozy slippers with arch support.

There was a small break-in period.

Allbirds continued to impress us during testing, so our next category winner goes to the brand’s Wool Runner Mizzles. Over a period of six months, these became a go-to everyday shoe as they're comfortable for whatever you have planned. Arguably the best part of these cozy kicks is that the upper is made with a plush ZQ merino wool that gives you the feel of a slipper without the appearance of a slipper. These sneakers don’t have the traditional sporty look of a running shoe — they look a bit more elevated or professional. And with ample arch support, cushioning, and traction on the bottom, these are the perfect shoes for wearing while walking around a city or for a  nice dinner .

At first, the tongue of the shoe dug into the top of the foot, but with just a few wears, the upper stretched out a bit, and it became a non-issue. However, we were pleased that the shoe fits true to size and continues to contour to the shape of the foot as more miles get put on the sneakers.

The Details: 8 to 14 | ZQ-certified merino wool, sugarcane-based green EVA, FSC-certified natural rubber

Best for Walking

On cloud 5 shoe.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

The shoe is very lightweight and easy to slip on and off at the airport.

After six months of heavy, everyday use, the shoes began to break apart.

We think the On Running Cloud 5 sneakers are the best pair of kicks to slide on for comfort and support on the go. We found that the flexible polyester upper allows the shoes to easily slip on and off, making them the ultimate airport footwear. Plus, the brand’s Zero-gravity foam midsole and rubber sole have the perfect balance of support and flexibility. These are lightweight shoes made with high-quality materials, so they look stylish as well. While these sneakers are technically designed for running, we think they are best as walking shoes for travelers looking for a shoe with a more relaxed fit. Because of the lightweight materials, these are super easy to pack in a suitcase or backpack for saving weight and space in a carry-on.

The Details: 7 to 14 | Recycled polyester, Zero-gravity foam, rubber

Best for Workouts

Apl techloom tracer.

• Comfort 4.3 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

The soles feel very supportive, and the shoe itself is designed for low- to high-intensity workouts.

The shoes were a bit stiff at first.

We love a versatile pair of shoes like the APL Men’s TechLoom Tracer that combines comfort and support for a range of activities like walking, running or strength training. While these are technically performance sneakers designed for workouts, we found the kicks to be exceptionally supportive for walking through the city and traveling during a  weekend getaway .

And when you want to get in a quick workout at the hotel gym, we think the stiffer ankle and heel cushioning certainly helps with stability and support for leg day. Although the shoe has a solid amount of stiffness, APL’s Propellium EVA midsole and rubber outsole provide plenty of cushion and shock absorption. We found these sneakers run true to size, and the breathable lycra upper is flexible for foot width but also fits those with narrow feet perfectly, too.

The Details: 7 to 15 | Lycra, rubber

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Blundstone Men’s Classic 550 Chelsea Boots

• Durability 3.5 /5

The leather and sturdy construction feel premium and durable.

The boot can’t be resoled.

To avoid frigid toes while  traveling in the cooler months , a pair of 550 Blundstones will do the trick. Crafted with a water-resistant leather upper and elastic sides for breathability, we were immediately impressed by the durable design of these boots. The construction of the boot allows for extreme comfort right out of the box with no break-in period. We found the boots run true to size, and because of the elastic sides, they fit nicely around the ankles without any tightness or discomfort. After wearing the boots in the mud in the countryside and during a rainstorm without any damage to the materials or wet feet, we’re confident these Chelsea boots will stand the test of time. The biggest drawback for us is that the shoes can’t be resoled, so you’ll want to make sure to take good care of them to prolong their longevity.

The Details: 4 to 14 | Leather, rubber

Best Sandals

Teva hurricane xlt2 sandals.

The straps are super comfortable, and the soles have the same support as sneakers.

We wish there were half sizes available.

The Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals are the perfect footwear to take you from  the beach  to the river in comfort. We love that these sandals don’t have a break-in period, as they were instantly comfy while wearing them for the first time and still feel like new after wearing them regularly for six months. The quick-dry polyester straps don’t dig in or cause any redness, and the EVA footbed is both supportive and cushioned. The sole is much more like a thick, durable sneaker or a running shoe than a cheap sandal. After three days of basically constant use, including in the pool and on the beach, we saw no visible wear. While we wish these Tevas came in half sizes, we love that there are three straps on either sandal that can be adjusted to customize the fit accordingly, so for that reason, we suggest sizing up if you’re in between sizes.

The Details: 5 to 17 | Polyester, EVA foam, rubber

Travel + Leisure / Jason Horn

Best Slip-on

Kizik men's lima.

• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Value 4.6 /5

They're breathable with excellent traction.

The heel can feel a bit loose.

Kizik thought about everything when designing the Limas — from the bouncy Rabbit Foam outsoles to extra ankle padding and a spacious toe box, these are some of the most comfortable shoes we tested. After wearing around the house for less than an hour, these shoes were broken in and ready for long walks. While these slip-ons have a looser heel than most sneakers, they don't chafe or slip while you walk. The knit uppers are incredibly breathable, so your feet don't become hot and sweaty even in warm climates, but the insoles are machine washable if you do find they need a refresh. These shoes are made of durable, high-quality materials that are great for packing and sure to last for years to come.

The Details: 4.5 to 15 | Knit, leather

Most Versatile

Thursday boots low top.

Thursday Boots

• Comfort 3 /5

These unique shoes combine the functionality of sneakers with the materials of a high-quality boot.

They needed a longer break-in period than we would have liked.

We love a pair of sleek sneakers that can be paired with any outfit and this pair from Thursday Boots blends the comfort of a sneaker with the durability of a boot. The outer is crafted with Natural Chromexcel Horween leather while the interior is lined with sheepskin for a soft and comfortable fit. The low tops also sport a dual density rubber outsole that improves traction without making you feel weighed down. While we do wish the shoes had a bit more arch support, they are still comfortable once broken in. They were also surprisingly breathable, considering the thick lining, and packed well in checked and carry-on bags.

The Details: 6 to 16 | Leather and sheepskin

Other Men’s Travel Shoes We Liked

The shoes below were close to making our list but did not make the cut due to several inconveniences during testing, including issues with durability and fit.

Hylo Light :  These sneakers are beyond comfortable, and they look nice enough to wear to work or the gym. However, after wearing them every day for several months, there was a noticeable amount of wear and tear (like, literal tears) that made us skeptical about their durability.

Tropicfeel Canyon Sneaker : These shoes fit well, they have great arch support, the laces don't pinch, and they're nice and breathable. However, we noticed when walking long periods of time, the insoles would slide up and out of the shoe because they aren't fully secured inside.

T+L expert product testers tried 20 pairs of boots, sneakers, and sandals over a period of six months to find men’s travel shoes with the best comfort, fit, value, and quality. Whether we were working in the office, running outdoors, or walking through the city, we rated each pair of shoes on a scale of one to five.

After unboxing the shoes, we did a thorough examination of the quality of the shoe. We asked our testers to look at their construction and note the initial quality of the materials. Then, we wore the shoes for three separate tests to judge the break-in period, the overall comfort after several hours of wear, and the durability of the materials after wearing the shoes for at least one full day (although many of our testers wore these shoes more than what we asked for).

In the end, the highest-scoring travel shoes we tested received glowing reviews for being exceptionally comfortable thanks to arch support and cushioning, fit perfectly right away with a minimal break-in period and are made with high-quality materials meant to last over the course of hundreds of miles.

Tips for Buying Men’s Travel Shoes

Size and width are key.

It’s important to have some wiggle room in your footwear to avoid possible discomfort when you’re on your feet all day. Whether you’re buying shoes in person or online, be sure to give yourself some time to try the shoes on before you leave the house. If your toes are pushed against the front or if the sides of your feet feel pinched, allow yourself enough time to exchange the shoes for a longer or wider size for optimal comfort.

Choose the right type of shoe for your destination

While sneakers might be your go-to shoe in general, there are plenty of other shoe styles, such as comfortable men's loafers , that are supportive enough for all-day wear. If you’re heading to a tropical destination, opt for a pair of sandals, and for a cold-weather trip, be sure to bring a pair of boots or warm sneakers.

Consider packing space

Travelers who prefer a carry-on suitcase should bring lightweight shoes that are more compact, like sneakers or sandals. If you’re heading to a spot where warmer shoes will be needed, consider wearing your boots or bigger shoes while traveling to save space.

To maximize suitcase space and protect your shoes, use a travel shoe bag and place them with the soles facing outward with the uppers toward each other. To prevent creases in sneakers or shoes with a fabric upper, you can stuff socks in to keep the shape while traveling.

It’s important to always read the manufacturer's instructions before cleaning a pair of shoes. If you’re on the go and don’t have access to a washing machine, you can spot-clean your shoes using water and soap if you’re in a pinch.

We recommend prioritizing travel shoes that are versatile, light, and easy to clean. Leather shoes travel well as they're quite durable and generally easy to clean, but do note leather tends to be heavier than other shoe materials. If you're thinking more about packing space and/or you're traveling to a warm-weather destination, textile shoes are great options as they tend to dry quickly and provide both breathability and comfort.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp  is a Commerce Writer at  Travel + Leisure , where she reviews and writes about travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018 and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best men’s travel shoes, and she participated in the test for the best women’s travel shoes, too.

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The Best Travel Shoes of 2024, Tested by Experts

These shoes were made for walkin'!

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks

Best Overall Travel Shoe

New balance fresh foam x 1080 v12.

Best Vintage Travel Shoes

Reebok club c 85.

Best Comfortable Travel Shoes

Rothys slip on sneakers.

Best Travel Shoes for Walking

Allbirds tree runners.

Best Travel Flats

Birdies goldfinch.

Best Travel Sandal

Chaco z/1 classic sandals.

Best Lightweight Travel Shoes

New balance fuelcore nergize v1 sneaker.

Best Travel Fashion Sandals

Vionic rest amber backstrap sandal.

Best Versatile Travel Shoes

Brooks ghost 15 neutral running shoe.

Best Travel Slides

Birkenstock arizona soft footbed.

The fiber scientists and product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textile Lab have been testing travel gear and footwear for decades, from the best running shoes for women to walking sandals , sneakers and more. We’ve evaluated and vetted hundreds of shoe styles for their construction, durability and performance in the Lab and sent consumer testers home with travel shoes. Testers report back on their fit, style and comfort over extended periods of wear. According to our footwear experts, travel enthusiasts and testers, these are the best travel shoes for your next trip.

After our top picks, keep reading to learn about what to look for when shopping for the best pair of travel shoes.

Tackle the Trevi fountain, the Louvre and Big Ben with these New Balance sneakers that will make you want to walk for miles. Featuring a roomy toe box for wider feet, a flexible knit upper and a lightweight design , they’re the perfect pair for all types of travelers. This style is a go-to among our testers thanks to their plush cushioning. Our pros also love that they’re available in a variety of colors so you can choose one that stands out or blends into the crowd.

READ MORE: The Best New Balance Shoes for Every Lifestyle

For a trendy, vintage look, consider these classic Reeboks that our very own product analysts own and love. "I love the simple, classic look that’s easy to dress up or dow n ," says Senior Textiles Analyst, Emma Seymour. "I find them comfortable to wear, but they’re stiffer and offer less cushioning," she warns, so anyone with joint pain or sensitivity should be cautious before purchasing. Still, their goes-with-anything vibe will easily take you from planes, trains and automobiles to restaurants and bars.

We all know that classic sneakers don’t always make you look like a local (or pair well with your cute dinner outfit), so why not consider these trendy slip-ons from Rothy’s? They’re casual, super comfortable and require very little breaking in, according to our footwear experts. Better yet, they’re machine washable so they’ll look as good as new even after your trip.

A Family Travel Awards winner , these popular Allbirds will easily squeeze into any suitcase without adding much weight or taking up much precious space. Our editors swear by how comfortable they are , naming them a must-have for trips to European capitals or destinations that require a lot of walking. On top of their lightweight design, breathability and supportive cushioning, We love the Tree Runners' classic style that comes in a variety of colors.

Sneakers aren’t the only shoes that can be comfortable, we promise. For those looking for a stylish flat for chicer destinations, our fiber scientists turn to this super cute pair of travel shoes from Birdies. Perfect for evenings out to dinner or visits to museums, we're fond of the seven-layer footbed that conforms to your foot and were impressed by the shoe's support and softness. Plus, they’re available in a variety of prints, patterns, colors and even half sizes.

Featuring support that rivals some sneakers, Chacos are a go-to if you hate being stuck inside sneakers or you're heading to a warm destination but still want plenty of security. A 2024 Travel Awards Winner , testers were impressed not only by the sandals’ support but also by the shoe’s built-in traction that helps prevent slipping on a variety of surfaces . Our experts also appreciate that the straps are adjustable so you can customize the perfect fit and that they're offered in a range of colors and prints.

Whether you’re bringing a carry-on or checking your luggage, it’s best to stick with lightweight travel shoes. To keep your total weight to a minimum without sacrificing comfort, our pros suggest this versatile pair of sneakers from New Balance that weighs just 150 grams per shoe . A favorite among our pros, these travel shoes allow for freedom of movement thanks to their breathable, mesh design at the front and can be easily slipped on. They were also recommended by the podiatrists we worked with to put together our list of the best walking shoes .

Vionic shoes are popular among our Lab experts for their high-quality construction and supportive designs. We love this orthotic disguised as a fashionable sandal for all occasions, whether you want to wear them during daytime tours or out for drinks in the evening. We appreciate that the footbed is made of soft microfiber so you’re comfy at all times and that the style is available in various sizes, widths and shades.

If you like to work out while you’re on vacation or think the best way to discover a town is by foot, consider bringing the Brooks Ghost 15 along for the trip. This neutral sneaker can be used for running and walking and is a top choice for anyone seeking stability and control. Our testers loved the Ghost 15 for its cushioning, support and traction and raved about their comfort.

Birkenstocks have even around since 1744 for a reason, and our product analysts and editors swear by the brand’s shoes for those who suffer from foot pain, bunions or other common issues. The Arizona is one of the brand’s most iconic designs and will look stylish (and feel comfortable) as you make your way around a new city while letting your toes breathe. We appreciate the shoe’s durable construction, which features a supportive cork footbed and genuine leather straps . For an even lighter option that’s perfect for the pool, consider the Arizona EVA model that's made entirely from plastic.

HOKA Bondi 8

Look around and you’ll probably see someone wearing HOKA sneakers . The brand's chunky sneaker style has a huge following. Though popular among runners, this French brand is also suitable for travel days thanks to its shoes' structure and support. To keep you on the move while walking through new cities (or if you’re someone with flat feet), our experts recommend the Bondi 8 for its plush cushioning and breathable mesh upper.

Crocs Classic Clogs

It’s hard to find shoes more lightweight, comfortable and convenient than Crocs, especially if you’re headed to a beach resort or plan to spend some time by the pool. Available in tons of fun colors and designs, our pros love how easy Crocs are to get on and off as well as their waterproof design. Just keep in mind that they lack the support needed for longer walks, so it’s best to keep them back at the hotel.

Merrell Moab 3

Heading to a national park this summer? These hiking shoes from Merrell are an absolute must. A top performer in Lab tests and a favorite among our testers, the Moab 3 is both super comfy and supportive. We love that they provide stability on rocky terrains and feature mesh panels to help keep your feet cool . Best of all, they’re on the lighter side for hiking shoes, so they won't weigh you down on your future adventures.

Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt Sneakers

Our editors can't get enough of these classic sneakers from Cole Haan. They're the perfect match to any outfit , whether you're wearing a sun dress or a casual pair of jeans. We love their lightweight construction, soft cushioning and all-leather design that's built to last. They may be the only pair of shoes you'll need for a casual weekend getaway.

Asgard Chelsea Boots

Our Textiles Lab analysts rave about these small, lightweight waterproof booties that are perfect for a city break, whether you're heading to Seattle, London, Paris or another rainy destination. The waterproof design should keep your feet dry throughout your travels, and their value (under $40) is hard to beat. We also appreciate that they're available in other fun colors like red or yellow so you can match them to your raincoat .

Teva Universal Sandal

Not only are these fan-favorite Teva sandals extremely lightweight, but they’re super comfortable and perfect for all types of beachwear or water adventures . They’re available in a variety of colors and patterns, as well as a platform style for those who want a little added height. We also appreciate that they feature adjustable straps for a secure fit around your foot, whether you have wider or narrower feet. Plus, they pack down so small that they make great backpacking shoes.

Columbia Ice Maiden II

Planning a trip to a snowy destination or hitting the ski slopes ? These snow boots from Columbia are a favorite among GH Institute analysts. Not only are they noticeably lighter and more flexible than many other snow boots, but this A mazon bestseller has a wide, roomy toe box so your feet never feel cramped. Testers found that the boots offer excellent traction, generous cushioning and just enough warmth and support.

OOFOS OOahh Slide

OOFOS are technically recovery shoes that aren’t meant to be worn all day, but you'll be grateful to slip them on at your hotel after a long day of getting your steps in . We also don't see the harm in wearing them during a long flight or by the pool (just rinse them off in the shower should they get dirty). Consumer testers rave about OOFOS' arch support and comfort, as well as how easy they are to slip on and off. Plus, they're so light that you likely won't notice any added weight in your suitcase.

Blundstone Classics Chelsea Boots

The Blundstone brand hails from Australia so you can count on these rugged shoes for your next outdoor adventure. Not only are these Chelsea boots durable, but they’re made of water-resistant leather so your feet stay dry no matter the weather . Testers found this model to be both stylish and super comfortable once broken in and appreciate the built-in pull tabs to make it easier to take the shoes on and off.

ECCO Yucatan Sport Sandal

Heading to the Yucatan? Whether or not a trip to Mexico is in the books, our pros recommend these sandals for hikes, walks and outdoor activities. Those seeking arch support and stability will appreciate the sandal’s high-quality design and soft, EVA molded footbed , in addition to three adjustable straps. Our testers also claim that the sandals don’t cause blisters and have great traction on all types of terrain.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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Best travel workout shoes.

When it comes to traveling, it’s important to pack the right gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. One essential item for fitness enthusiasts is a pair of travel workout shoes. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. In this article, we’ll explore the best travel workout shoes on the market so you can stay comfortable and active while exploring the world.

What to Look for in Travel Workout Shoes

Before we dive into the best travel workout shoes, it’s important to understand what makes a good pair. When choosing travel workout shoes, look for the following features:

• Comfortable fit
• Good arch support
• Lightweight design
• Breathable materials
• Durable construction

Top Travel Workout Shoes for Men

Nike free rn 5.0.

The Nike Free RN 5.0 is a great option for men who want a lightweight and flexible shoe for their travels. The shoe features a minimalistic design with a breathable mesh upper and a flexible sole that moves with your foot. The shoe is also easy to pack, making it a great option for those with limited luggage space.

New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz v2

If you’re looking for a shoe with excellent arch support, the New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz v2 is a great option. The shoe features a cushioned sole and a breathable knit upper, which makes it comfortable for long walks or workouts. The shoe also has a sleek design, making it a stylish option for traveling.

Adidas Ultraboost 20

The Adidas Ultraboost 20 is a versatile shoe that’s perfect for both workouts and exploring new destinations. The shoe features a responsive sole that provides excellent energy return, making it a great option for running or high-intensity workouts. The shoe also has a breathable and flexible upper, which ensures a comfortable fit for long periods of time.

Top Travel Workout Shoes for Women

Asics gel-kayano 26.

The Asics Gel-Kayano 26 is a great option for women who need a shoe with excellent support. The shoe features a cushioned sole and a breathable mesh upper, ensuring maximum comfort during workouts or long walks. The shoe also has a sturdy design, which makes it a great option for those who need a durable shoe for their travels.

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 is a lightweight and stylish option for women who want a comfortable shoe for their travels. The shoe features a responsive sole and a breathable upper, which makes it a great option for running or high-intensity workouts. The shoe also has a sleek design, making it a fashionable option for exploring new destinations.

Reebok Nano 9

The Reebok Nano 9 is a versatile option for women who want a shoe that can handle a variety of workouts. The shoe features a cushioned sole and a durable upper, which makes it comfortable for both high-intensity workouts and long walks. The shoe also has a sleek design, which makes it a stylish option for traveling.

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Home » Gear » The BEST Travel Workout Equipment – Travel Fitness Gear (2024)

The BEST Travel Workout Equipment – Travel Fitness Gear (2024)

Traveling the world helps you develop in a lot of different ways. It gives you a greater perspective, opens you up to new experiences, and might even expose you to a new way to enjoy fried chicken. One thing it’s not so good at, though, is building up your fitness.

There are endless challenges in the way of staying fit on the road. You might have a dedicated exercise space, gym membership, or weekend pick-up basketball routine at home, but there is no way to find that if you’re hitting up a new town every week. You’re lucky enough if you find a hostel with a yoga space.

Plus, half the point of traveling is all the new flavors you come across. You’ve got to eat and drink your way through every new place to get a taste of it. And any half-decent street food tastes better when washed down with a few local beers.

It can add up to a disaster. Traveling for six months can wreck years of progress in the gym, and the threat of your workout regimen being taken away can hold some people back from hitting the road.

So, we’re here today to quell those fears and get you on your way with the tools you need to stay in shape while still enjoying your trip. But first, a DISCLAIMER.

Until someone finally invents a gym membership subscription that works Airbnb style or figures out a way to make 20 lb dumbbells weigh nothing at one moment and turn on the next, the truth is that you’re travel workout routine will never look like your at-home system.

And that’s okay. The whole point of flying to Namibia is that everything is different than the inside of your apartment, anyway. That shouldn’t stop you from traveling, nor should it stop you from caring about your fitness.

Because there are ways to get great workouts on the road, and there are plenty of nearly weightless travel workout equipment that will help you reach your FITNESS GOALS. So, get warmed up and meet me on the mat!

Fit Simplify Loop Resistance Bands

• Price ($) > 12
• Packed dimensions (in.) > 6 x 3
• Packed weight (lbs) > .1

Manduka eKO Superlite Yoga Mat

Running Shoes

• Price ($) > Variable
• Packed dimensions (in.) > Variable
• Packed weight (lbs) > Variable

Trideer Stretching Strap

• Price ($) > 11
• Packed dimensions (in.) > 75 x 1
• Packed weight (lbs) > .37

TRX Fitness App

• Price ($) > 5.99 per month
• Packed dimensions (in.) > NA
• Packed weight (lbs) > NA

TRX Weighted Jump Rope

• Price ($) > 19.99

Bala Bangles One Pound Weights

• Packed weight (lbs) > 2

TRX Go Suspension Trainer

• Price ($) > 199
• Packed dimensions (in.) > 53 x 2

Lululemon Workout Sliders

• Price ($) > 28
• Packed diameter (in.) > 7

Redify Adjustable Jump Rope

• Price ($) > 13

Gaaim Travel Folding Yoga Mat

• Price ($) > 21
• Packed dimensions (in.) > 68 x 24
• Packed weight (lbs) > 1.8

Travel Workout Equipment is Only The Start

Best travel fitness gear tried and tested, final thoughts on the best travel workout equipment.

While having travel fitness gear is essential, it’s only the first step. I’ve logged many trips with a jump rope in my bag; it doesn’t mean I’ve ever used it. It’s equally important to cultivate a mindset and make time for fitness. The details of that mindset are different for everyone. But generally, you should plug into the same motivation you have at home. 

If you like to rise and grind and hit the gym for a few hours before work at home, make it a part of your routine. Get your sweat on before hitting up the continental breakfast. If you’ve never gotten up early to work at home, don’t expect that you’ll magically get into it while you’re on vacation. Stick to what already works for you and do it in a different country. 

That doesn’t mean you can’t try anything new when working out while traveling . I’ve found a great way to keep up with my fitness away from my gym membership is to build my trips around exercise . When I’m in Sicily for a month, the only fitness I’m into is fitting this whole pizza into my mouth. So I try to make sure my trips include time near the beach, ski mountains, or bike routes where I know I’ll be super keen to get moving. 

Another great way to get into the travel workout mindset is to find a way to get moving and meet new people .

If you’re staying in a hostel full of stoked surfers, you’ll be more interested in getting into the water and giving it a shot than if you’re staying in an Airbnb by yourself. This brings me to the last and most important part of getting into the travel workout mindset: accommodation . 

Your accommodation will make or break your travel fitness goals. For example, if yoga is part of your daily routine at home and you go book a cramped dorm room in the tiniest, cheapest hostel in town, you’re going to have a bad time. 

It is absolutely worth it to splurge and book a place that provides the space and privacy you need to work out. Whether that means bike rental, a yoga shala, a fitness center, or a rock climbing wall, it’s the easiest way to set yourself up for success.  

When we discovered fitness resorts and wellness programs, it completely changed the game. We have curated this list of the best fitness retreats in the WORLD , to help you embrace a healthier travel experience.

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Now that we better understand the mindset, let’s get to the good stuff: travel gear .

Life as a broke backpack doesn’t include many Instagram-worthy sunsets and fancy hotels with pools and exercise rooms with power plates. And still, with a bit of grit and the right equipment, you can have your beer with no fear.  

The fitness gear we’ll look at below all weighs less than 5 pounds and all provide a better workout than relying on pushups and sit-ups to get through your vacation.

This equipment has accompanied our team across the globe, and we’ve made room for these essential pieces of gym equipment in some absolutely tiny backpacking packing lists . 

1. Fit Simplify Loop Resistance Bands

• Price ($) – 12
• Packed dimensions (in.) – 6 x 3
• Packed weight (lbs) – .1

Resistance bands are a versatile fitness equipment, especially when you’re packing light . They’re proof that no matter how minimalist you pack, there’s always space to bring your workout with you.

These light bands weigh less than a pair of underwear and bring a world of potential to anywhere on Earth where you can lay down a mat.

Resistance bands can help you stretch deeper and use your body weight against you, turning a simple Pilates routine into a sweat-inducing, challenging workout. While these won’t rip up your muscles like a set of dumbbells, the functional equipment has done wonders for my mobility, and resistance bands flys still leave me sore in the morning. 

There are thousands of hours of free workout content available on YouTube to show you how to make the most out of resistance bands.

If you’re heading outside the reach of the internet, spend a few weeks before your trip studying the basics and mapping out your routine, and you can keep your workouts going without missing a beat. You can always stay connected and on top of your workouts with these great travel Wi-Fi routers .

2. Manduka eKO Superlite Yoga Mat

A 6 X 8 space and a yoga mat are all you need to improve your body. The only trouble is, yoga mats can be pretty unwieldy. They don’t fit easily in a suitcase, and many travel mats sacrifice your knees to save a few ounces. This Manduka option is the exception to the rule, offering excellent comfort and still weighing less than two pounds . 

While it is a super-lite mat, there is just no way to make yoga mats smaller. I usually just throw my Manduka mat into the water bottle pocket of my backpack and carry it onto the plane, and no flight attendant has ever batted an eye.

It doesn’t even count as a personal item, and the value of traveling with a yoga mat is well worth a few side eyes while I cram it into an overhead bin. 

Sure, you can always hope that your accommodation is the only hostel in all of South America that stocks fresh, clean yoga mats that don’t smell like other traveler’s sweat. Or you can bring your fortune with you and squeeze in a stretch in the bus terminal while you’re at it. It’ll feel weird, but no one cares.

3. Running Shoes

• Price ($) – Variable
• Packed dimensions (in.) – Variable
• Packed weight (lbs) – Variable

If you want to workout while traveling, a comfortable pair of travel shoes is not up for debate. Unfortunately, it’s common knowledge that the easiest way to pack light is to leave a few pairs of shoes behind. Unless you’re just rolling a suitcase from the airport to a taxi to your hotel and back again, you likely won’t have room for dedicated workout shoes.

Talk to many broke backpackers about travel shoes, and they’ll likely give you some version of this same advice! T he maximum pair of shoes you bring is 3 . Flip flops, shoes you can walk around a city and eat a nice dinner in, and one weather-resistant pair for intense hiking.   

Many hardened travelers will widdle that number down to two, either by skipping the snow hikes altogether, or deciding they don’t give a fuck, and they’re wearing hiking boots to dinner. I like to sneak my running shoes in as my everyday city pair by opting for a fashionable, rugged shoe.

My favorite recommendation for that is the Nike ACG line . This subset of shoes is usually water resistant , comfortable enough to hike in all day, and stylish enough for a night out in Budapest. I wouldn’t run a marathon in these heavier shoes, but they’ll help me sneak in a 5K on the beach. They’re stable enough for HIIT workouts. 

4. Trideer Stretching Strap

• Price ($) – 11
• Packed dimensions (in.) – 75 x 1
• Packed weight (lbs) – .37

Stretching is a vital part of travel workouts. After a few long layovers and some bumpy bus rides, you might be able to get straight back onto the squat rack in your early twenties, but not forever. Sneaking in a stretch while traveling supports quicker adjustment to new time zones and builds strength.

These polyester stretching straps are more durable than the resistance bands we looked at earlier, but at the cost of some stretchability. They won’t work the same for strength-building exercises, but they will offer a more formidable hold . It’s perfect for taking your stretches deeper. 

Loop these straps around your arch and work towards greater hamstring, glute, and quad flexibility from anywhere. These bands won’t make her dance, but they will help you connect to your body in new ways, bridging the gap between your shoulder joints and helping to straighten things out.

5. TRX Fitness App

• Price ($) – 5.99 per month
• Packed dimensions (in.) – NA
• Packed weight (lbs) – NA

You can’t travel with a personal trainer, but you can travel with a personal training plan .

The TRX Fitness App is one of the best fitness apps for travelers . It provides access to the TRX training club, hundreds of hours of videos, and support to get the most out of your TRX. YouTube has some workouts, but they won’t take you nearly as far as these science-backed programs . 

The app features full-length classes from professional trainers and programs that help you build strength over weeks, months, and years. Unfortunately, the app is subscription-based because you can’t own anything these days, but that comes with its own perks. You can sign up when you hit the road and cancel when you’re back within range of LA Fitness.

Each suspension trainer purchase comes with a code for six free months of the app. If you time it right, you can use the app across your entire semester abroad without breaking out your credit card. Remember to download videos before take-off, so you can have on-demand workouts ready no matter where you are.

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Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

6. TRX Weighted Jump Rope

• Price ($) – 19.99

Don’t let the term ‘weighted’ scare you off from this jump rope as a travel partner. Each handle of the rope only adds 9 ounces of weight. It’s one of the best travel workout equipment that feels like nothing in your pack but starts to add up after a few minutes of jumping. 

Weighted jump ropes, in addition to the obvious benefit of increased resistance, help your jump activate different muscles. With just half a pound in each handle, your arms might surrender to the jump before your legs. Each handle’s extra weight is removable to get your reps in with or without the extra oomph. 

The 10-foot cable can be adjusted to fit from armpit to armpit of any jumper. Partners can travel with one rope and find the perfect size adjustments for two workouts.

And it’s much more than a simple travel workout. I never leave the country without a solid jump rope, which also doubles as my makeshift laundry line or a keen strap for taxi roof racks. 

Renting workout equipment on-site can be a smarter choice sometimes, especially for larger and heavier gear. Let’s help you learn exactly what not to pack in your carry on !

7. Bala Bangles One Pound Weights

• Packed weight (lbs) – 2

Unfortunately, there is no way to pack dumbbells without adding serious weight to your luggage. A pound is a pound, no matter how round.

If you still want to add some extra oomph to your workouts, consider these Bala Bangles. It’s one-pound ankle and wrist weights that help you beef up body workouts without undue strain on luggage limits. 

You can even hook these bangles up to your ankles to put some extra work in on travel days. However, we can’t promise you the TSA isn’t going to have a few questions. The weight bands are pretty straightforward, coming in 1 and 2 lbs weights that hook up around your extremities.

It’s not something you can build a workout plan around, but rather use as support. One pound doesn’t sound like much, and it won’t put a significant strain on your packed weight. But strap these suckers on for a few sets of burpees and forward lunges, and you’ll really start to feel the heat. 

8. TRX Go Suspension Trainer

• Price ($) – 199
• Packed dimensions (in.) – 53 x 2

TRX has revolutionized travel workouts. As long as you can find a sturdy place to set them up, this system helps elevate bodyweight training and allows you to work your entire body anywhere on Earth. From minute back muscles to hip and pelvic stabilizers, there’s a TRX method to reach every muscle group. 

The driving force behind TRX is suspension training , which is the idea that the human body needs to move all over the place.

Many traditional training methods only focus on large muscle groups and heavy weights. They don’t really consider the stabilizing muscles, core strength, and joint strength necessary for truly functional movement. The TRX is here to address all that.

By performing normal, bodyweight exercises like pushups, rows, and shoulder presses lifted off the ground, your body will shimmy and shake before eventually locking into place. It’s a great way to work out, whether you’re traveling or not. But lucky for us, the whole system weighs less than a pound. 

9. Lululemon Workout Sliders

• Price ($) – 28
• Packed diameter (in.) – 7

Who knew that two discs the size and weight of a pair of breast implants could change everything. These sliders help encourage functional movement by getting your core involved in everyday movements. It’s exactly the kind of thing you should take with you on your travels, with maximum effort at minimal packed weight. 

Deploy your sliders on carpet, wood, and linoleum, and move up and down the room without lifting your feet. There are all sorts of easy applications that help you change up a bodyweight workout. Slide instead of stepping back into the lunge position. Amp up your mountain climbers, and add movement to planks to help wake up your shoulders. 

The whole idea of the sliders is to get your body working better together. Instead of throwing your weight around, starting in your legs and arms, sliders force your core to activate each movement and build strength in your strike zone. The tools can look slightly gimmicky until you get on the floor and feel your glutes start to burn. 

10. Redify Adjustable Jump Rope

• Price ($) – 13

Jump ropes rank just under exercise bands in terms of travel-ready workout equipment. At a minimal cost and minimal additional weight, you can get your cardio in, pump up your calves, and improve your balance in 20 minutes or less.

Jump ropes are also incredibly simple workout tools, with plenty of great options well within any broke backpacker’s price range.

This Redify two-pack means you can order one for home and one for the road. You’ll be hopping and bouncing your way to a lower weight at the end of your trip no matter how many extra desserts you treat yourself to. Some exercise gurus say that 10 minutes of jump rope is equivalent to 30 minutes on a treadmill . So if you bounce around for half an hour, it’s like running a marathon!

Jump roping might seem like only a lower-body workout. That’s certainly the primary muscle group worked, bringing great strength and endurance to your ankles, calves, knees, and leg muscles. But you can’t overlook how in-tune every part of your body has to be to hit each jump in stride. This is a great exercise to improve your coordination and get your body in tune .  

11. Gaiam Travel Folding Yoga Mat

• Price ($) – 21
• Packed dimensions (in.) – 68 x 24
• Packed weight (lbs) – 1.8

Yoga mats are such an essential piece of travel equipment that we had to look at two options. A lot of hotels, hostels, and camping sites have extra space to work out, but not a lot of them are easy on your knees. Bringing a yoga mat helps you out with much more than a downward-facing dog. 

While a yoga mat isn’t a workout on its own, it’s quite literally the basis for every complete workout possible.

This Gaiam mat makes it happen by folding up and compacting better than most mats out there. You can easily squeeze this one on top of your carry-on backpack and it unfurls like a map to guide you toward better fitness. 

This mat is so thin that it can slide into the hydration bladder holder in most backpacking backpacks. It’s not like you had big plans for that storage space, anyway. Pack up this folding Gaiam traveler, and you’ll never be too far from a moment of recentering and rebuilding. 

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When you’re scraping together a few coins for a papi pollo, it might feel like you’re a world away from a proper exercise routine. You might not have access to a fancy gym or a spacious hotel room, but you’ve got something better! CREATIVITY and Lululemon workout sliders. 

Whether you’re on a Thai beach, wandering through the alleyways of Marrakech, or chilling in a dodgy hostel, there’s always a way to stay fit. Bodyweight exercises are your best friend – squats, pushups, and burpees don’t cost a dime, and you can do them anywhere.

The best travel workout equipment we’ve looked at is all geared towards enhancing those body workouts. And not because adding on two one-pound weights will magically turn a squat into a superset. We’re not fake gurus trying to sell you a dream.

The real benefit of traveling with workout equipment is to help break the monotony of normal bodyweight exercises . Light, portable, and inexpensive fitness gear is your ticket to maintaining your gains without breaking the bank.

Staying active while traveling on a shoestring budget might not sound glamorous. However, it’s the kind of adventure that leaves you feeling like a warrior. It’s all about embracing the grind, and there’s a certain satisfaction in not giving in to the travel slump. Sure, it’s not always comfortable or convenient, but neither is sleeping on an overnight bus. 

And the best part? Keeping up with your workout routine abroad is like a stealthy act of rebellion. You’re showing that you can live large on a tight budget while still prioritizing your well-being. It’s a big middle finger to the idea that staying fit is all about fancy gyms and pricey protein shakes. It turns a six-month sabbatical into another way of life. 

In the end, travel fitness is about flexing your imagination, not your wallet. So, grab your budget-friendly gear, adapt to your surroundings, and make space for your workout, no matter where you are. 

Now, if you’re gearing up for an awesome trip, check out the Broke Backpacker’s ultimate travel resources . They’ll help you squeeze every drop of fun out of your adventure! Cheers :))

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Three Ways to Pack Workout Shoes Without Wasting Space

Sneakers, tennis shoes, running shoes—whatever you call them, there’s no getting around the fact that they take up more than their fair share of suitcase real estate. But you don’t have to abandon your resolve to stay fit and healthy in the pursuit of packing light. Here are three ways to save space and make sure you have shoes that will support you however you choose to work out when you’re on the road.

See recent posts by Christine Sarkis

Option #1: Find Sneakers That Pack Flat

One look online at Nike’s Flyknit line inspired me to go to a store and spend five minutes compressing the shoe from all angles. I was really impressed by the degree to which these shoes could be flattened to take up only the space of the sole. These are a great option for anyone looking to do full workouts while traveling, as they offer the support of a running shoe but can be wedged along the sides of an already-full suitcase.

From $43 at Amazon

Option #2: Travel with Undercover Workout Shoes

I’ve heard that, because of wear patterns, you’re not supposed to use the same shoes for general use and exercise. But for travel, we can be a little flexible on that point. Sneakers with retro styles offer both street cred and basic exercise support, making them the perfect undercover workout shoes. You could, for instance, hit the gym and then take in a museum, all in the same shoes. I would advise showering in between activities though.

From $20 at Amazon

Option #3: Wear Double-Duty Light Workout Shoes

Not everyone exercises the same way. For gym-eschewing power walkers and long-distance urban trekkers whose legs are strong and hearts are healthy, a shoe that supports intensive walking without advertising itself as a sneaker might be just the thing. You probably shouldn’t attempt a gym-style workout in these shoes, but they will treat your feet right for those long days of vacation walking.

From $35 at Amazon

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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