The Last Thing You Need Is Blisters While Traveling—These Are the Best Women's Sneakers for Every Type of Trip

Travel + Leisure

09-06-2025

Why We Love It
We were able to wear these for a full day at Disney right out of the box with zero discomfort.
What to Consider
The textile upper is too thin for cold weather.
The standout feature of the Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 Shoes is the midsole made from Boost, the brand's proprietary technology that uses expanded thermoplastic polyurethane particles to provide unrivaled energy return and cushioning with every step. Flexible and durable enough to withstand miles and miles of impact in a wide range of conditions, this Boost midsole enabled T+L editor Erin Cavoto to wear the shoes right out of the box for a full day at Walt Disney World with no repercussions. In her words, 'Not only did I walk over 20,000 steps, I spent most of the day on my feet in lines and never experienced any foot, leg, or back pain.' She also managed to avoid blisters despite being prone to them in other sneakers.
The Primeknit textile upper is designed to conform to your foot, stretching with every movement and providing excellent breathability. We liked the socklike, tongueless construction and the fact that despite its lightness, the material felt both thick and durable. However, we wouldn't recommend it for colder climates since it offers very little insulation. Other features include a molded heel counter to keep your foot securely in place as you walk and a rubber outsole for reliable traction on a variety of wet and dry surfaces. We found the fit true to size and were impressed with how little wear the soles of the shoes showed after testing. There were a few scuff marks on the light-colored fabric, but generally they resisted dirt better than expected.
The Details: Sizes 4.5-12 | Lace-up | Textile upper, thermoplastic polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Why We Love It
These sneakers feature a unique technology that allows the heel to snap back into place after you step into them, without having to adjust it by hand.
What to Consider
The leather is less shiny than expected, which could be a pro or con depending on taste.
Available in ivory white or black with a white sole, the Kizik Women's Vegas Sneakers are game changers when it comes to step-in technology. We love that you can step straight into the shoes without untying them or bending over to pull them on, because the flexible heel is designed to compress and then snap quickly back into place. They're also very versatile, with a premium, full-grain leather upper that you can dress up or down for a wide range of occasions, making these our go-to sneakers for trips when suitcase space is limited.
Other features include the brand's Rabbit Foam outsoles, which blend bounce-back with durability for supportive cushioning with every step. We found them comfortable from the outset with zero break-in required and loved that the sole, while thick and bouncy, did not feel too chunky. The shoes conformed well to our arches, and with rubber traction pods on the toe and heel areas, we feel confident wearing them on a variety of wet and dry surfaces. Ideal for shoes that are best worn without socks, the insoles are both removable and washable.
The Details: Sizes 6-13 | Slip-on with laces | Leather upper, foam outsole, rubber traction pads Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Sorel $95 at Amazon $66 at REI $95 at Nordstrom
Why We Love It
Classic with a trendy twist, these sneakers score points for practicality since they're waterproof and wipe clean easily.
What to Consider
We recommend sizing up if you're between sizes, and there could be more arch support.
The Sorel Ona Ave Women's Low Waterproof Sneakers look like your classic court sneaker, upgraded with a three-quarter-inch platform sole, making them a great platform option for when you need a little lift. They come in a range of styles, with upper materials varying slightly between colorways. Some of the colorways are predominantly leather, some are predominantly suede, and others combine both with patches of houndstooth textile. Whichever you choose, the upper features waterproof bootie construction which we tested in wet grass, mud, and snow with no issues. We love that the waterproofing makes them easy to clean, too.
Our test pair required some breaking in because the left shoe was a little too small. Despite this, we managed to wear them in until they were comfortable without developing blisters—but would recommend sizing up if you're unsure of the correct size or have unevenly sized feet. Otherwise, the sneakers' removable EVA insole, molded rubber midsole, and foam injected outsole provided ample cushioning and energy return. They don't offer much arch support, though, which was fine for us but may be an issue for some.
The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Lace-up | Leather, suede, textile upper, EVA insole, molded rubber midsole and outsole | Waterproof Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Why We Love It
Durable, lightweight, versatile, and always in style, these sneakers have been on trend for over 100 years.
What to Consider
They can take some breaking in before they are fully comfortable.
Converse's Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas High-tops started out as an elite basketball shoe in 1917. In the decades since they've become a cross-cultural icon—instantly recognizable by their Chuck Taylor ankle patch and All Star license plate, their contrasting laces, and rubber toe caps. I've owned a pair for 20 years and feel as at home in them now as a work-from-home mom as I did as a teenage emo kid. Though definitely a casual shoe, the fact that I've worn them for everything from backpacking trips to rock shows, dog walks, and kids' playdates shows their versatility.
The high-tops do require a breaking-in period, and the canvas can feel stiff at first. But once they've molded to your feet, they're comfortable enough for hours of wear even without any real arch support. OrthoLite cushioning gives some energy return, and if you tie the laces just right, you can slip them on and off without undoing them every time. I love their durability. My current pair have put up with four years of near-constant wear, and although the white parts are a bit grubby, they're still structurally sound. They come in almost every color and even offer a fun customization option.
The Details: Sizes 5-18 (regular); 5-15 (wide) | Lace-up | Canvas upper, rubber sole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Hoka View on REI $170 at Nordstrom View on Zappos
Why We Love It
With their next-level cushioning and stacked yet lightweight sole, these shoes are ideal for running long distances.
What to Consider
Size up if you're between sizes.
T+L updates writer Anne Taylor calls the Hoka Bondi 9 Sneakers 'the most comfortable walking shoes I've ever worn.' As great as they are for walking, they're purpose-built for high-impact running on hard terrain with a supercritical foam midsole and a rearfoot-focused Active Foot Frame—features that essentially translate to plush cushioning and fully supported landings. We found them comfortable right out of the box and loved the springiness of the thick, padded sole. The arch support was great, and we never experienced any pain or rubbing while wearing them.
We also like that the shoes are lightweight despite their exaggerated stack height. They come in wide and extra-wide versions, which we can confirm provide ample room in the toe box without feeling too clunky. Other running-oriented features include a 3D-molded collar for reliable ankle support, a structured knit upper for breathability, and Durabrasion rubber patches on high-wear zones to increase longevity. Overall, we feel this is a high-quality shoe that will last a long time. Colorways range from neutrals to bright designs like lavender and orange.
The Details: Sizes 4-12 (regular); 5-12 (wide and extra-wide) | Lace-up | Polyester upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Amazon $90 at Amazon View on Zappos View on Ryka.com
Why We Love It
These sneakers are built for long walks, offering reliable comfort at a reasonable price point.
What to Consider
We found the laces a little stiff, although this does help to keep them securely tied.
Though some people use running shoes for both running and walking, they're actually built differently, and the Ryka Podflow Walking Sneakers are designed especially for fitness walking and walk/run interval workouts with articulated pods in the EVA foam midsole and rubber outsole providing targeted support. 'The pods on the bottom are unique, adding noticeable stability and cushioning for walking long distances,' says senior testing editor Jackie Cucco, who owns these sneakers. She found the shoes comfortable from the moment she put them on, with a light, bouncy feel and ample arch and heel support. She also liked the ankle support provided by the higher-than-average padded collar.
The laces are quite stiff, which can make them tricky to tie; however, it also keeps the tongue securely in place. The sneakers have been lab-proven to provide a high energy return and a smooth heel-to-toe transition, while the uppers are made from a breathable mesh fabric with reflective accents to make you more visible to traffic after dark. The shoes come in black, yellow, blue, or white (all with a white sole), and we think that the fit is true to size. Overall, this is a comfortable, specialized shoe that offers impressive quality for under $100.
The Details: Sizes 5-12 (medium); 6-12 (wide) | Lace-up | Mesh upper, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Allbirds $119 at Amazon View on REI $98 at Allbirds
Why We Love It
These sneakers manage to be comfortable enough to wear all day without sacrificing style points.
What to Consider
They're only available in whole sizes, and we found that light colors stain easily.
If you're looking for a well-made sneaker that's as good for the environment as it is for your feet, check out the Allbirds Women's Couriers. Made from all-natural materials, they offer a slightly retro vibe in a range of neutral, multitonal colorways that pair well with most outfits and look athletic without being too sporty. The sugarcane-based SweetFoam midsole provides all-day cushioning and support with enough energy-returning bounce to keep foot fatigue to a minimum, while a soft lining makes them comfy with or without socks.
We found them comfortable right out of the box with no breaking in period required. Allbirds only offers whole sizes, which can be an issue for some feet, but we were especially pleased with the fit of this pair, which hugged our heel securely. The upper is made from breathable, durable organic cotton and eucalyptus fiber, while the outsole harnesses the grippiness of natural rubber. Our only criticism: light colors get dirty quickly and are difficult to spot clean, so consider opting for a darker shade if you're headed somewhere wet.
The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Lace-up | Cotton and eucalyptus fiber upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Zappos $160 at Brooksrunning.com
Why We Love It
Maximum cushioning makes these shoes a supportive, fatigue-beating option for long days on your feet.
What to Consider
They're not breathable, and the sizing tends to come up small.
The Brooks Ghost Max L Sneakers are a special, leather-upper edition of a brand favorite. We liked the added durability and ease of cleaning provided by the leather but found that it negatively impacts the shoes' breathability, so we would not recommend them for especially warm or humid climates. The overall quality is excellent, however, and we found the sneakers comfortable after a minimal break-in period. At no point did we experience rubbing, blisters, or hot spots, and we found the arch and ankle support good.
The sneakers offer the brand's highest level of cushioning with a high stack for maximum protection and decreased pressure underfoot. The rocker construction reduces impact on your ankles and knees by allowing for easy, assisted transitions with every step. When we wore them on slippery terrain on the way back from the gym, we were impressed by the level of stability and traction the sneakers afforded. Two points to consider: their bulky build can take some getting used to, and we had to size up to get the right fit. Color choices are limited to black or white.
The Details: Size 5-12 (medium and wide) | Lace-up | Leather upper, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Vans $85 $65 at Amazon $60 at Zappos $55 at Vans.com
Why We Love It
Iconic style aside, we were impressed with these shoes' sturdy comfort, especially around the heel area.
What to Consider
They can feel a bit sweaty when worn without socks.
As their name suggests, the Vans Classic Slip-on Sneakers are another instantly recognizable icon. First launched in 1979, they're synonymous with skateboarding but are also an on-trend pick for any casual activities. Choose yours in the original black/off-white iteration, or choose from a wide range of other checkered colorways. These shoes are built to last with sturdy, low-profile canvas uppers and waffle-cut rubber outsoles that provide reliable traction whether you're on a skate deck or sidewalk.
T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker says they're heavier than other slip-on styles she owns, but that she quite likes the extra heft because it makes them feel more substantial. She also commented that the padded collar 'is way softer on the foot than canvas, which meant the shoes did not create the insane blistering I've gotten with similar styles from other brands.' They are comfortable from the get-go, albeit with a bit of breaking in required to loosen up an initial feeling of tightness. Elastic side accents allow you to slip the shoes on easily, although care is needed to ensure the heel goes on properly.
The Details: Sizes 5-19.5 | Slip-on | Canvas upper, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Why We Love It
These sneakers offer comfort, versatility, and anti-odor technology for well under $100.
What to Consider
After a year of wear, we've noticed some buckling at the join of the sole and upper.
Costing 2.5 times less than our overall winner, Dr. Scholl's Madison Lace Sneakers are an affordable option for anyone who appreciates sustainably-made versatility. They come in a wide choice of colorways, all with a contrasting chevron stripe on the side. Depending on which you choose, the upper is made of either faux leather or fabric, all with a lace-up front for a secure, adjustable fit. We like how they're comfortable to walk in while also having a versatile look that you can dress up for office-wear or work trips with the right outfit.
The double-layer EVA midsole gives just the right amount of cushioned support, and a platform sole is made from flexible, grippy rubber. Despite the sole's 1.3-inch height, strategic coring keeps the shoes lightweight. Two final features that we particularly like: the sidewalls are treated with an easy-clean repellant while the insole uses antimicrobial technology to keep odor at bay. Our pair still looks clean and smells fresh even after nearly a year of consistent use. We have noticed some buckling where the sole meets the upper after 10 months of wearing the shoes.
The Details: Sizes 6-11 | Lace-up | Faux leather or fabric upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Vince $265 at Amazon $250 at Nordstrom $250 at Zappos
Why We Like It
Comfortable, cute, and beautifully made, these slip-ons are well worth their higher price tag.
What to Consider
We think they may be too narrow for those with wide feet.
Crafted from genuine Italian leather, the Vince Warren Platform Sneakers exude quality with a sturdy build and uppers that seem to repel water and mud. They're durable, cute, and easy to slip on without using your hands thanks to the elastic goring on either side. A padded heel collar offers some protection at the back of your foot; however, it wasn't enough to stop us from getting a blister the first time we wore them when the fit felt narrow and tight. After testing these, we'd say it takes around three wears to break them in, and then they became more comfortable with each wear.
The sneakers have a cushioned insole that molds to the shape of your foot to provide support. The 1.5-inch rubber platform is hollow, keeping the shoes lightweight and making it possible to wear them for hours with no fatigue. We love that the soles kept us steady on our feet while out and about in rainy Seattle and that the platform upgrades the overall look so that we can wear them as easily for an outing with friends as we can for running errands. The sneakers run true to size and come in black or white with other colors available in suede and nubuck variations.
The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Slip-on | Leather upper, rubber sole | Water resistant Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: DSW $85 $76 at Amazon $90 at Zappos $90 at Journeys.com
Why We Love It
These shoes stand out for their timeless vintage style and all-day comfort.
What to Consider
Size up if you're between sizes, especially if you have wide feet.
With a white or off-white leather upper and colored accents on the logo and heel collar, the Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Shoes are inspired by classic '80s tennis shoes. We love their versatile retro look and were surprised to find that they were comfortable from the first wear despite initial misgivings due to their relative flatness. Updates writer Anne Taylor says, 'These sneakers have always felt comfortable on long walks and for all-day wear. Although they don't have much built-in support, my feet never feel tired or sore at the end of an outing.'
We especially like the soft, removable EVA foam sockliner and the lightweight cushioning provided by the EVA midsole. The outsole is made from diamond-patterned rubber for traction on wet or polished surfaces. Overall, we feel this is a high-quality shoe with a substantial build and no signs of wear and tear after months of frequent use. The white color inevitably attracts dirt; however, the sneakers are easy to wash or wipe clean. The fit is generally true to size although we suggest that those with wide feet try a half size up.
The Details: Sizes 5-15.5 | Lace-up | Leather upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: REI $155 at REI $155 at Backcountry $155 at Hoka.com
Why We Love It
These sneakers are lighter than hiking boots while still offering plenty of cushioning, support, and grip.
What to Consider
We didn't find them very breathable.
Sneakers that are specially designed for the trail like the Hoka Women's Anacapa 2 Freedom Sneakers can be a great alternative to heavy, suitcase-hogging hiking boots. Despite having laces, these are designed as slip-ons with a special heel that flexes and springs back into place for getting them on and off hands free. Stretch gusset upper construction offers a socklike fit that made our feet feel snug and eliminated the risk of chafe-causing movement, while the ample cushioning reduced strike impact and helped with joint pain in our hips, knees, and ankles.
The sneakers were comfortable right off the bat. We were impressed with the arch support, too, although the ankle support cannot compare to that of full-height hiking boots. The rocker style adds propulsion to every step, helping to save energy out on the trail, and the Vibram Megagrip outsole offers maximum traction on all kinds of wet, dry, uneven, or loose terrain. We liked the sneakers' solid build and appreciated that they still looked brand new after several test hikes.
The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Slip-on | Mesh and nubuck upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Why We Love It
As well as being fully waterproof, these sneakers prioritize lightweight, cushioned comfort.
What to Consider
We feel they're not quite as stylish in person as they look online.
If you're headed somewhere with an abundance of precipitation, the Vessi Cityscape Classic Sneakers could be your new best friend. That's because their Dyma-tex construction is 100 percent waterproof, keeping your feet dry no matter how much it rains or how wet the ground is. They're designed for a lightweight, narrow fit (we found them a little snug in the toe box, with a socklike feel that took some getting used to but that we ultimately loved). Use the reflective pull tab and elastic ankle collar to pull them on and off with ease.
These sneakers stood out for their all-day comfort, providing plenty of lightweight support and preventing foot fatigue even after hours of walking. We found them responsive and especially liked that they didn't chafe even when worn over bunions. They're breathable in hot weather and don't seem to generate any odor. There were a couple of downsides: we didn't love the aesthetic and found the white color we tested got dirty quickly. Finally, the grip is so good that it caught and caused us to stumble a few times on smooth surfaces.
The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Slip-on | Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Waterproof Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: New Balance $140 at Amazon $140 at Zappos View on Newbalance.com
Why We Love It
These shoes feature Stability Plane technology to help correct overpronation and relieve stress on knees and hips.
What to Consider
Although we love their athletic design, they're not versatile enough for smart occasions.
Those that struggle with overpronation—the excessive inward rolling motion of the foot as it makes contact with the ground—should try the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14 Running Shoes. The sneakers' design prioritizes support and stability, and although it can feel strange at first (almost like your feet are being forced to roll outward), we found that it helped to reduce the strain on our hips and knees significantly. The design is also lightweight enough to prevent fatigue, with a mesh upper that's both breathable and quick drying.
We thought the shoes were exceptionally comfortable with plenty of padding on the inside of the heel and tongue. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers the brand's highest level of cushioning for superior shock absorption and a cloudlike feel underfoot, while the rocker profile puts a spring in your step and gives you the energy to walk all day. We didn't have any issues with blisters or hot spots and liked that the traction was sufficient to feel confident on wet, slippery surfaces. We love the overall aesthetic with colors ranging from black to pale yellow.
The Details: Sizes 5-12 (narrow, standard, wide, extrax-wide) | Lace-up | Synthetic upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Nordstrom $120 at Amazon $120 at REI $120 at Zappos
Why We Love It
From days at the office to vacations, these shoes are a versatile option for every occasion.
What to Consider
The toe box can feel a little tight for those with wide feet.
With the right outfit and accessories, you can wear OluKai's Pehuea Li 'Ili Leather Sneakers for almost any occasion from city sightseeing to luxury resort stays. As well as being timelessly stylish, we find them durable, comfortable and easy to slip on, with a buttery full-grain leather upper and a specially designed drop heel that allows the shoes to convert instantly from sneakers to slides. A patterned design on the heel area elevates the overall look by adding an element of subtle interest.
The interior is lined with soft glove leather that feels great whether you're wearing socks or not, and the compression of the cushioned midsole is inspired by the sensation of walking barefoot in wet sand. We love the overall fit and just-right amount of arch support, although we would caution those with wide feet about the toe box which can feel a little too cozy at times. Finally, the rubber outsole features butterflyfish-inspired siping for grip on wet surfaces. Color choices are meant to offer maximum versatility and include white, black, and ash gray.
The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Slip-on with laces | Leather upper, rubber outsole White sneakers are the perfect addition to any casual outfit. Credit: Travel + Leisure
White sneakers are a staple in any wardrobe. Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Amazon $100 at Amazon $100 at Nordstrom $110 $99 at Zappos
Why We Love It
A slim silhouette and retro styling makes these sneakers compatible with everything from jeans to dresses.
What to Consider
Lighter colors tend to get dirty quickly and can be difficult to clean.
Available with leather, metallic leather, or suede uppers, the Naturalizer Shay Lace Up Sneakers combine a low-profile silhouette with a chunky platform sole and retro-inspired accents on the side, tongue, and heel. We love the high-quality feel of the material and think the slim silhouette is flattering enough to pair well with dresses and skirts as well as your everyday jeans and leggings. Essentially, they're the ideal sneaker to pack if you only have space for one pair in your suitcase.
We thought they felt a bit narrow, which made them feel tighter than other sneakers, but we eventually got used to the snug fit and loved that it prevented our feet from sliding around. They're also available in a wide cut for those that worry about pinching in the toe box. The cushioned footbed features Contour+ technology for bouncy, all-day comfort and abundant arch support, while the nonslip outsole keeps you steady on a variety of surfaces. Colorways range from pewter to champagne, but we found that the lighter colors tend to get dirty quickly and were difficult to clean.
The Details: Sizes 5-12 (regular); 6-12 (wide) | Lace-up | Leather or leather and suede upper, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Adidas $150 at Adidas.com $85 at Stockx.com View on Net-a-Porter
Why We Love It
Offering casual comfort and an iconic look, it's easy to see why these sneakers are a brand classic.
What to Consider
They come up large and have no arch support.
Originally designed for indoor football pitches, the Adidas Samba MN Shoes have become a streetwear fashion staple and are instantly recognizable by their iconic stripes and tan gum soles. The latter is one of our favorite features, offering a secure, steady grip and flexible feel. We loved the stylish leather material that elevated any outfit. The overall quality was impressive, and we liked that they came with both black and white laces for switching up your look.
The sneakers are completely flat. However, while they're probably not the most supportive pick for a full-day walking tour or amusement park visit given their lack of arch support, we found them comfortable for everyday wear and never experienced any rubbing, blisters, or pain. We did find that we occasionally had to adjust the tongue, which tended to slip to one side. That's probably because the shoes come up large and were slightly too wide in our regular size. We agree with Adidas' recommendation to purchase a half size down.
The Details: Sizes 5-14.5 | Lace-up | Leather upper, gum rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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Credit: Atoms $145 at Nordstrom View on Atoms.com
Why We Love It
Breathable uppers and an antimicrobial, odor-resistant lining make these a top pick for warm weather.
What to Consider
We experienced some rubbing at the back of one of our heels.
Want to avoid sweaty feet this summer? The Atoms Model 000 Sneakers are designed for flexible breathability with a knit yarn upper and a cutout sole that keeps weight to a minimum. We like the simplicity of the design, which pairs well with most casual outfits, and the fact that the unique stretch laces allow you to pull the sneakers on and off without having to tie them every time. For the most part we found them very comfortable and were able to wear them for extended periods without sweating or overheating even in hot weather.
We liked the cloudlike cushioning and ample arch support afforded by the two-part EVA foam and rubber sole. We also appreciated the inclusivity of the shoes being available in quarter sizes, making it possible to achieve an almost custom fit. However, we did experience some rubbing on one of our heels (though we appreciate this is unlikely to be a universal issue). A copper-threaded lining claims to kill bacteria to keep the shoes smelling fresh, while the traction was excellent on a range of surfaces. The shoes are machine-washable and come in a range of neutrals as well as a neon yellow option.
The Details: Sizes 5-16.5 | Slip-on with laces | Knit upper, EVA and blown rubber midsole, rubber outsole Credit: Travel + Leisure
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The shoes in this article were chosen according to the results of several different sneaker tests conducted by the T+L team, dating back to 2022. Each pair was tested in a similar way, whereby we wore them for at least three periods of two hours or more over the course of two weeks. We made sure to wear them for different activities and on a variety of terrains to get a complete sense of their fit, comfort, material and construction quality, support, cushioning, and traction. We also considered the sneakers' style and versatility. We chose our favorite pairs based on comfort, fit, quality, support, and value. After our initial testing period, we continued to wear each pair for a minimum of six months to determine durability. We will continue to update this article as we test even more pairs of sneakers.
Sneakers cover a broad spectrum of different styles and purposes. It's important to consider your requirements carefully before deciding on a pair. Some are intended specifically for athletic use with technical elements designed to give you the edge whether on the track, the trail, or training in the gym — though "sneakers" shouldn't be confused with actual tennis shoes. These range from an exaggerated heel-to-toe drop for extra propulsion to antimicrobial, moisture-wicking materials.
Others are meant for casual comfort with a cushioned midsole and slip-on convenience, while some (like the Puma wedges listed above) are more statement-making fashion pieces. If you plan to use your sneakers for travel, comfort, lightness, and breathability are key factors to consider. Versatility is important, too, because sneakers that go with everything and can be dressed up or down eliminate the need to pack a different pair of shoes for every occasion.
The best pair of sneakers is the pair you actually want to wear. After all, it doesn't matter how good they look in the box: if they chafe or cause your feet to sweat, they won't make it out of your suitcase. Look for lightweight, breathable materials that can adapt to a range of temperatures. A roomy toe box is key for avoiding uncomfortable pinching; and while the ideal amount of arch and ankle support depends on your chosen activities and personal preference, it's important that your sneakers meet these requirements. A cushioned midsole is a great way to prevent foot fatigue and increase energy return, too.
When looking for the perfect pair of sneakers, you'll want to pay close attention to what they're made of. If you plan to do a lot of walking or exploring in your shoes, opt for naturally breathable materials like leather, canvas, nubuck, and suede. Also consider the sole: we suggest choosing EVA whenever possible. A rubber-like material that's softer than rubber, EVA is more flexible and adds padding to the sole, making it ideal for sneakers you plan to wear often.
Frequently Asked Questions As a general rule of thumb, a good pair of shoes should last for between 300 and 500 miles of wear (approximately 8 to 12 months of frequent use). If you only wear yours occasionally, their lifespan will obviously be a lot longer. Keep an eye out for wear and tear that goes beyond the superficial, including worn tread patterns, outsoles that no longer sit flush on an even surface, tears or holes in the interior lining, compression or creasing of the midsole, and any noticeable decline in comfort or support.
Care instructions vary considerably depending on how your sneakers are made and the materials they're made from. You should always consult the manufacturer's instructions before cleaning them. Sneakers with fabric uppers (mesh, cotton, and polyester) are sometimes machine washable. You should use a cold, delicate cycle and avoid using potentially damaging fabric softeners, then leave the shoes out to air dry.
Other sneakers have removable insoles that can be washed, while uppers should be spot cleaned with a damp cloth. Canvas sneakers can be cleaned with regular soap and water and a soft toothbrush; or with a Magic Eraser sponge made of melamine foam. Magic Erasers are also great for removing stubborn stains from the rubber soles of most sneaker types. Leather and suede uppers usually require a specialist cleaning product. You can use waterproofing sprays like Nikwax to extend the lifespan of most fabric and leather shoes.
T+L contributor Jessica Macdonald lives in sneakers and has worn them on her travels to more than 50 countries. She typically wears her Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars on the plane and for everyday sightseeing and packs her Nikes for more strenuous athletic activities. The products in this article were chosen according to the results of tests carried out by the T+L team.
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