Latest news with #OnCloud5
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Forbes
The Best Travel Shoes For Men, According To Well-Traveled Experts
The best travel shoes for men blend support, style and functionality, minimizing pain and discomfort during your next trip. After considering recommendations from foot-care experts and insights from Forbes Vetted's well-traveled staffers, a number of favorites emerged: The On Cloud 5 won as our best walking travel shoe for its ultra-soft cushioning, while the Allbirds Wool Runners stood out for its comfortable yet sophisticated design that's ideal for business travelers. The best travel shoes for men blend support, style and functionality, minimizing irritation and ... More discomfort during your next trip. 'Most men buy travel shoes based on looks—but function should always come first,' says Dr. Mohammad Usman, foot and ankle specialist and surgeon at Michigan Avenue Podiatry. 'Look for support, not just style.' All the picks in our guide offer cushioned support, reliable traction and breathable materials—plus fashion-forward designs. Here, the best travel shoes for men to shop right now. On Size range: 7 to 14 | Arch support: Yes | Colors: 16 total, including Hay/Frost and Glacier/White | Return policy: Free returns within 30 days What you'll love: Keep in mind: Swiss brand On's bestselling shoe excels in its supportive features. Its air-pocket cushioning absorbs impact, while its breathable mesh construction cools your feet. Notably, the Speedboard running along the shoe works like a springboard, helping to propel you forward, so walking long distances feels a bit easier. The Cloud 5 also earned the top spot in our best walking shoes for men guide for its abundance of trek-friendly features—we particularly like the fact that it has removable insoles and a very lightweight design. Allbirds Size range: 8 to 14 | Arch support: Yes | Colors: 6 total, including Dapple Grey and Hazy Indigo | Return policy: Returns within 30 days What you'll love: Keep in mind: Work-friendly shoes are often made of refined but heavy materials (i.e., leather) that can weigh down your feet on the go. Allbirds' Wool Runners solve this problem with their lightweight, ethically sourced ZQ Merino wool fabric. The material is naturally thermoregulating and gives this sneaker a sleek, business-casual aesthetic. It also has a cushioned midsole for extra comfort and, as added bonus, the entire shoe is machine-washable so you can toss this pair in the laundry after your trip. Kizik Size range: 4.5 to 15 | Arch support: Yes | Colors: 7 total, including Chestnut and Coronet Blue | Return policy: Free returns within 30 days What you'll love: Keep in mind: Kizik's Vegas sneaker has a springy yet durable 'Rabbit Foam' outsole and a soft leather upper that's flexible with a minimal break-in period. For days when you're stuck in long security queues, the sneaker is engineered with a collapsible rubber heel that snaps back into place when you step into it—a.k.a, it's incredibly easy to slip on and off in a pinch. Forbes Vetted engineering director Caleb King reaches for these when he wants a dressy style without sacrificing comfort. 'I wear these to the office because they are sophisticated enough to pass for work shoes,' he says. SUAVS Size range: 8 to 14 | Arch support: Yes | Colors: 10 total, including Oatmeal and Olive Green | Return policy: Free returns within 30 days What you'll love: Keep in mind: What slip-ons often lack in arch support, the Suavs Zilker makes up for with its grippy outsole that gives plenty of security and traction across all terrains. This one's particularly lightweight and slim, so its flexible body can be packed flat in your carry-on without taking up any excess space. Bonus: Its responsive, moisture-wicking fabric means you can wear it with or without socks (regardless of your foot type), and this p ick accommodates those with wide feet, too. Hoka Size range: 7 to 15 | Arch support: Yes | Colors: 3 total, including Barley/Oat Milk and Rye/Bark | Return policy: Free returns within 30 days What you'll love: Keep in mind: If your next trip involves nature trails or unpredictable terrains, the Hoka Anacapa Breeze Low has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for its extensive features that promote foot health. This includes a ventilated knit upper for optimal airflow, a grippy Vibram outsole for traction and a forked heel that allows for ease of movement on uneven surfaces. With its symmetrical foam cushioning, expect plenty of responsive toe-offs and a smooth ride overall. 'These are perfect for every stage of travel,' says Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigilotta. 'Their ventilated upper keeps my feet cool, and the cushy midsole makes it easy to walk for miles in pain-free comfort.' Here at Forbes Vetted, our fashion team has researched, written on and tested a wide variety of footwear, from the best workout shoes for men to the best casual shoes for men. When assembling this list, we researched bestselling men's sneakers from top-rated brands like On, Allbirds and Hoka. 'When traveling, we often double or even triple our normal step count, which can exacerbate underlying foot problems,' says Dr. Matthew Conti, foot and ankle surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery. Before making a purchase, here are some important factors to consider that can minimize injury risks: 'Appropriate arch support is essential for travel,' says Dr. Conti, who recommends avoiding flimsy footwear that lacks cushioning. The Kizik Vegas' almost spring-like cushioning, for example, offers a blend of comfort and support. 'Cushioning is essential to maintaining the foot in a neutral position, which results in proper alignment and reduces stress on muscle groups,' notes Dr. Mohammad Usman, foot and ankle specialist and surgeon at Michigan Avenue Podiatry. Choosing the right fabric for your shoe can be the difference between constant irritation and redness or a blister-free journey. This is especially true if you're prone to hammer toes: a.k.a., corns that develop on your toes due to over-straining muscle groups, says Dr. Usman. He suggests you go for materials that rub minimally against your feet. 'I highly recommend mesh fabrics,' he says, 'as these can regulate temperature and reduce moisture, which has an added benefit of preventing fungal infections.' Our mesh-filled favorite on our list, the On Cloud 5, fits the bill and is known for its breathability. Certain foot types may need special attention. According to Dr. Usman, those with flat feet should 'look for shoes with motion control features, rigid heel counters and firm arch support to prevent excessive inward rolling of the ankle.' The Hoka Anacapa Breeze Low, for instance, offers an array of heavy-duty features to enhance foot stability while on uneven terrain. Alternatively, for feet with high arches, shoes with ample cushioning should generally suffice, he says. If you have wide feet, you'll likely need something something flexible like the Suavs The Zilker. 'Those with bunions will also need a wider toe box to prevent the toes from chafing against the top of the shoe,' Dr. Conti adds. To learn more about your foot type, talk to your podiatrist for a personalized evaluation.
National Geographic
12-03-2025
- National Geographic
The best slip-on shoes for women in 2025
By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, National Geographic will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below.* Nothing beats slip-on sneakers when you're facing a long line at airport security or when you're running late for a tour. These days, there's no shortage of options, but it's important to find a pair that balances ease with good support and comfort. To help travelers find the right pair of slip-on shoes, we analyzed top-rated options and spoke with footwear expert Yash Mehta, a spine and sports medicine specialist in Virginia. Our top pick, the Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneaker, stands out for its cushioned midsole and structured heel cup, making it one of the most versatile options. If you have other needs, keep reading. Whether you need a lightweight travel shoe, waterproof protection, or arch support, we've found a slip-on shoe to a variety of needs. The best women's slip-on shoes A good slip-on sneaker should fit securely, feel comfortable, and provide support for hours of exploring. Look for stretchy knit uppers for a snug fit, cushioned insoles for shock absorption, and slip-resistant outsoles for stability on different surfaces. Breathable materials help prevent overheating, while lightweight designs make packing easier for travel. Best overall slip-on shoe for women: Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneaker Photograph courtesy Kizik Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneaker Buy it now at Kizik Why we like it: The Kizik brand is known for its hands-free footwear design, and the Athens is one of its most popular models. The step-in design is pretty smooth, and the breathable stretch-knit upper allows for a snug but adaptive fit. With responsive cushioning and a high-density foam midsole for shock absorption, the Athens is made to reduce foot fatigue during long days of walking. We like that the insoles are washable and that the 'Rabbit Foam' outsole gives even more cushion to the shoe. The structured heel cup offers stability, which helps prevent the shoe from slipping off with each step. We also appreciate that the Athens has built-in arch support, making it a solid option for travelers who need extra comfort throughout the day. Keep in mind: The back of the shoe has a firm structure that may require a short break-in period for some wearers. Product details: Material: Knit upper, removable insole, 'Rabbit Foam' outsole | Weight: 10.4 oz. | Sizes: 6-13 Best walking slip-on shoe for women: On Cloud 5 Photograph courtesy On Running On Cloud 5 Buy it now at On Running Why we like it: The On Cloud 5 is a lightweight yet cushioned shoe designed for all-day wear. It has the brand's signature 'CloudTec' cushioning, a sole construction that compresses on impact. According to the company, this technology helps reduce muscle fatigue and even lower heart rate. We like that the speed-lacing system makes it really easy to slip into. It feels secure around the midfoot, giving walkers a sense of stability without restricting movement. The breathable mesh upper helps with airflow, preventing overheating in warm climates. The grippy outsole offers good traction on urban streets and light trails. Keep in mind: The fit runs narrow, so those with wider feet may need to size up. Product details: Material: Recycled polyester upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 7 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 ( These are the best men's slip-on shoes for travel ) Best running slip-on shoe for women: Nike Pegasus EasyOn Photograph courtesy Nike Nike Pegasus EasyOn Buy it now at Nike Why we like it: Although slip-on shoes aren't recommended for running, Nike's Pegasus EasyOn combines the performance of a running shoe with the ease of a slip-on, which may be a good option for travelers who don't want to skip out on a light jog while traveling. The EasyOn lacing system allows the heel to collapse when you slip your feet in, and a tab cinches the elastic laces in place. The shoe also features the updated version of Nike's React foam cushioning. According to Nike, the 'ReactX' has a lower carbon footprint and better energy return than its predecessor. The engineered mesh upper, which is breathable, helps prevent overheating, and the waffle pattern on the rubber outsole helps increase traction without reducing flexibility. Keep in mind: The snug fit may require sizing up, especially for those who prefer a roomier toe box. Product details: Material: Engineered mesh upper, ReactX foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 9.3 oz | Sizes: 5-12 Best dress slip-on shoe for women: Rothy's The Loafer Why we like it: Unlike traditional loafers that can feel stiff, Rothy's Loafer is flexible and easy to pack. It has a seamless knit upper that the company says is made from recycled plastic bottles, which contribute to a breathable and comfortable experience. These loafers are also made to fit well. The textured knit structure is a little stretchy so they already feel snug, but they're also made to mold to your foot over time. Beyond aesthetics, this loafer is machine-washable, a rare feature for dress shoes. Even better, Rothy's factories have earned the True Platinum sustainability certificate. Keep in mind: Reviewers tend to order a half size larger. Product details: Material: Recycled plastic upper, according to the brand; removable insole; rubber outsole | Weight: 8.2 oz. | Sizes: 5-13 ( Here are 9 of the best walking shoes for women ) Best tennis slip-on shoe for women: Kizik Lima Slip-On Sneaker Photograph courtesy Kizik Kizik Lima Slip-On Sneaker Buy it now at Kizik Why we like it: The Kizik Lima Slip-On Sneaker is built for active travelers who need a secure yet effortless fit. The structured toe box and reinforced heel cup help ensure stability when you're running around the court or keeping up with fellow travelers. Kizik's springy heel easily bounces back into place after you step into them, reducing the need to adjust the fit. You can walk for a good distance in these low-profile slip-ons, thanks to the breathable mesh upper and cushioning. Compared to the Kizik Athens, the Lima has a snugger fit and more structure, making it a better choice for activities that require stability and lateral movement (e.g., tennis, pickleball). Keep in mind: The cushioned sole is thicker, which some may find slightly bulky. Product details: Material: Breathable mesh upper, cushioned insole, rubber outsole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 5-13 Best waterproof slip-on shoe for women: Vessi Boardwalk Slip-On Shoes Photograph courtesy Vessi Vessi Boardwalk Slip-On Shoes Buy it now at Vessi Why we like it: The Vessi Boardwalk Slip-On Shoes are our favorite waterproof slip-ons. They're made with a flexible polyester and nylon blend called 'Dyma-tex,' which is 100-percent waterproof. In addition to its waterproof features, the Boardwalk has a comfortable elastic ankle collar, a flexible sole, and a cushioned midsole. The breathable knit upper is made with temperature-regulating materials that make this slip-on shoe lightweight—ideal for travel and all-weather walking. Keep in mind: The soft knit upper lacks the structure of other sneakers, so some travelers may feel this slip-on lacks the support they need. Product details: Material: Dyma-tex upper, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 6.7 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 Best slip-on shoe with arch support: Oofos Oomy Zen Photograph courtesy REI Oofos Oomy Zen Buy it now at REI Why we like it: The Oofos Oomy Zen stands out for its arch-supporting design and impact-absorbing cushioning. The contoured footbed, a signature Oofos design, actively cradles the arch. Additionally, the Oofos' Oofoam technology is made to reduce impact with each step, which the company says can minimize joint stress. We like that the seamless knit upper provides a lightweight, sock-like fit, while the Zen bands across the heel and instep help ensure a secure feel without unnecessary pressure. Keep in mind: Because the soles are made of Oofoam technology, these shoes may wear out quicker than those with rubber outsoles. Product details: Material: Knit upper, Oofoam sole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 6-11 ( The best walking shoes for every kind of traveler ) Best slip-on shoe for travel: Allbirds Lounger Lift Photograph courtesy Allbirds Allbirds Lounger Lift Buy it now at Allbirds Why we like it: The Allbirds Lounger Lift is designed for travelers who need a lightweight, packable shoe that doesn't sacrifice comfort. The wool-blend upper provides a soft, breathable fit while naturally wicking away moisture, making it a great choice for warm or humid climates. We also like the padded heel collar for extra comfort. The Lounger Lift has a slightly elevated sole, giving the shoe a fashionable edge without reducing comfort. The midsole is made with sugarcane-based 'SweetFoam' that provides a nice bit of cushioning. With a minimalist look, these slip-on shoes pair well with lots of outfits, making it an even better choice for saving valuable suitcase space. You can also throw them in the washing machine—great for long trips when you need to freshen up. Keep in mind: These shoes run small, so go up a half size for the best fit. Product details: Material: Cotton canvas upper, 'SweetFoam' sugarcane midsole, merino wool insole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 5-11 Best slip-on shoe for airport security: Teva ReEmber Slip-On Why we like it: Teva ReEmber Slip-On is one of our favorite travel shoes. They're as comfortable as indoor slippers but just as durable as an outdoor shoe with a rubber outsole for traction. Plus they have a collapsible heel that's easy to step into. The cushioned EVA midsole is made to absorb shock while you're rushing through terminals. The quilted ripstop upper provides lightweight warmth, while the fleece lining adds extra coziness for frosty mornings or chilly airplane cabins. We also appreciate that these slip-ons incorporate recycled materials, according to the brand. Keep in mind: The insulated lining makes these slip-on shoes warm, so it may not be the best choice for hot weather destinations or travelers who prefer wearing slip-ons without socks. Product details: Material: Recycled ripstop upper, recycled polyester microfiber lining, according to the brand; rubber outsole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 6-15 Best commuter slip-on shoe: Hoka Transport Why we like it: The Hoka Transport is designed for city folk who need a supportive, impact-absorbing shoe for getting around town. Built with Hoka's signature thick cushioning, these slip-on shoes help reduce foot fatigue from long days of walking. The quick-toggle lacing system makes it easy to pull on and off while ensuring a secure fit, offering a practical alternative to the classic sneaker. The Vibram EcoStep Natural outsole, which the company says is made with 90-percent oil-free components, provides really good traction on wet or slick streets. The Cordura upper is made to resist abrasions, yet it's breathable. We also like that the Transport incorporates sustainable materials, including a 30-percent sugarcane EVA midsole, according to the brand. Even better—this shoe has received the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for good foot health. Keep in mind: The structured fit may run slightly narrow, so travelers with wide feet may want to size up. Product details: Material: Cordura upper, compression-molded EVA midsole, Vibram Ecostep Natural outsole | Weight: 9.1 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 ( These are the 8 best Hoka shoes for walking ) Best all-day wear slip-on shoe: Merrell Jungle Moc Photograph courtesy Merrell Merrell Jungle Moc Buy it now at Merrell Why we like it: The iconic Merrell Jungle Moc has been a reliable slip-on shoe for more than 20 years. It's designed for all-day comfort, with key features, including strong arch support and a slip-resistant outsole. The water-resistant suede upper looks good and has elastic side panels that keep the shoe secure while you're walking around. This slip-on shoe is comfortable too, with a cushioned heel and a molded EVA footbed that soaks up shock during long days of sightseeing. Travelers get plenty of traction from the M Select Grip outsole, plus odor control built into the footbed. Keep in mind: Because the upper is made of suede, these slip-on shoes may not be the best option for warmer weather. Product details: Material: Suede upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10.9 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 ( Shoe inserts may be one of the best travel hacks. Here are our favorites .) How we chose the best hands-free shoes for women We researched top-rated models, analyzed expert insights, and sifted through hundreds of customer reviews to find the best slip-on shoes. Whenever possible, we tested the shoes ourselves to evaluate fit, cushioning, slip resistance, and support. Here's what we inspected: • Third-party reviews: We went through expert insights and customer feedback to assess each shoe's comfort, durability, and real-world performance. • Brand reputation: We selected shoes from trusted brands known for their high-quality materials and long-term reliability. • Key features: We picked shoes that offer hands-free convenience without sacrificing comfort, focusing on secure fits, cushioned midsoles, breathable materials, and slip-resistant outsoles to ensure all-day wearability. Tips for buying slip-on shoes Fit and support Slip-ons lack laces, which means they often don't provide the same level of support and stability as lace-up shoes. 'If the foot is not fit securely with laces, the heels can slip, and this puts more stress on the muscles of the foot to provide stability, which can lead to fatigue,' says Mehta. To avoid this, look for slip-ons with elastic side panels, cushioned heel collars, or reinforced midsoles. Our top picks, the Merrell Jungle Moc and the Vessi Boardwalk may be good choices for you. Arch support & cushioning Many slip-on shoes lack the structure needed for long-distance walking, which can lead to plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and Achilles tendonitis. 'Unless they are designed with specific arch support, most slip-ons don't provide enough for extended wear,' says Mehta. If you're planning to wear slip-ons all day, choose models with a contoured footbed, firm midsole, and built-in arch support to help reduce strain. Memory foam and EVA-cushioned insoles can also add comfort and shock absorption. Fortunately, travelers have more than a few to choose from, including our top picks the Oofos Oomy Zen , the Hoka Transport , and the Teva ReEmber . Breathability & foot swelling Air travel and warm climates can cause foot swelling, making tight-fitting shoes uncomfortable. 'Tight footwear can restrict the blood flow to your feet, leading to more swelling and discomfort when you travel,' Mehta explains. To prevent this, opt for breathable materials like mesh or soft leather, and look for slip-ons with some flexibility to accommodate foot expansion. If you're traveling, choose slip-ons with stretchable uppers or adjustable fit features for added comfort. We like the Kizik Athens , On Cloud 5 , and the Nike Pegasus EasyOn . Frequently asked questions Are slip-on shoes good for your feet? Slip-on shoes can be good for your feet if they offer proper arch support, cushioning, and a secure fit. However, many lack the structure needed for all-day wear, which can contribute to foot fatigue or stability issues, especially for those with high arches or flat feet. What is the difference between slip-in and slip-on shoes? Slip-on shoes have elastic panels or stretchable uppers that secure the foot without laces, while slip-in shoes typically feature a collapsible heel or backless design, like mules, that are even easier to step in and out of. Are slip-on running shoes good for running? Most slip-on shoes are not ideal for running because they lack adjustable laces for a secure fit and stability. Running shoes have structured support to prevent slipping inside the shoe and reduce the risk of injury. However, some performance-oriented slip-ons, like the Nike Pegasus EasyOn , combine some running shoe features with the convenience of a slip-on design. Iona Brannon is a travel writer and photojournalist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Follow her on is a travel writer and photojournalist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Follow her on Instagram *Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
