Every editor knows that style and function have to go hand in hand. With booked-and-busy schedules, the best styles serve as functional sight seeing gear as much as outfit-enhancing shoes. Unless your itinerary includes trekking the Alps, they should just as easily work with a poplin skirt as they would stretchy leggings.
With brands like Miu Miu and Dries Von Noten giving sneakers a luxurious update, supportive footwear has made strides in the fashion sphere. Whether you’re traveling for work or to fulfill your wanderlust, check out the most comfortable travel shoes below. Here’s to inspiring a future vacation or two.
Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper’s BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
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Best Travel Sneaker Overall
Veronica Beard Riviera Sneaker
These slim-fit, retro-inspired sneakers are trending right now, and they happen to be ideal for travel. Their lightweight nature makes them easy to pack, and they won’t drag your feet down through long hours of wear. This espresso hue serves as a neutral base for any outfit, too, and the suede exterior adds that high-end appeal.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Espresso, Coconut, Chamomile, Black & more
Materials: Leather
Best Packable Sneaker
Alo Sunset Sneaker
Fashion and luxury commerce editor Sarah Maberry has been traveling “nonstop” in these Alo Sunset Sneakers since its release. “Not only are they super comfortable and easy to style, they pack down nicely should you need to slip them into your luggage,” she says. A recovery foam insole softens each step on harsh concrete as well.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: Sandstone, Black
Materials: Suede
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Best Low Profile Travel Sneaker
Tory Burch Field Sneaker
It’s all in the name: the Field Sneaker is meant to be worn while out on excursions. One of the buzziest newcomers to the sneaker scene, these Tory Burch trainers boast stylish suede, a cushioned footbed, and a gripping sole, all meant to make your strolls feel like a walk in the park.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Dark Olive, Cave Blue, Light Cream & more
Materials: Polyester, suede, leather
Most Versatile Travel Sneaker
Larroudé Stella Sneaker
Not pictured: the second set of red laces that comes with this sneaker purchase. It can be handy to have two different options while traveling, slightly changing up your look without packing an extra pair of shoes. The black patent leather seamlessly works with any outfit, too.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black Metallic, Seaweed Suede, Navy Suede & more
Materials: Patent leather
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Best Sporty Travel Sneaker
Alohas TB.56 Sneaker
Another stand-out low profile sneaker, the Alohas TB.56 shoe adds a casual sporty-chic vibe that’s fitting for both long travel days and casual coffee runs. They also come in a cream color that would suit any summer holiday.
Sizes: 5-11.5
Colors: Brown, Cream
Materials: Leather, rubber
Best Unisex Travel Sneaker
Adidas Samba LT Sneaker
Sambas feel like a no-brainer for travel. While there isn’t a ton of arch support, the insole is removable should you wish to add your own. They go with every outfit and remain comfortable for an entire day’s wear. The fold over lip adds a laid-back appeal that’s not quite as present in the original silhouette.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Black, Cream White, Earth, Blue, Scarlet
Materials: Leather, rubber, synthetic materials
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Best Classic Travel Sneaker
New Balance 574 Sneaker
I didn’t hesitate for a second when I purchased these shoes for my travels. Now, some eight years later, they have taken me from New York to Paris to Japan and plenty of cities in between. Despite logging over 1,000 hours of walking, the sole remains intact, the suede still looks clean, and the structure hasn’t broken down.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Cloud/White, Gray/White
Materials: EVA, suede, rubber
Most Practical Travel Sneaker
Asics GEL-1130 Premium Sneaker
When dad sneakers initially gained popularity in the 2010s, not many would have predicted them to become mainstays in the fashion sphere. But here we are, and these highly functional sneakers remain a must-have in today’s shoe closet. Gratefully so, as they’re incredibly comfortable, breathable, and uniquely stylish.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Cream/Kale
Materials: Textile, rubber
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Best Cushioned Travel Sneaker
Toteme Sporty Sneakers
Temperatures are cooling, which means a cushioned sneaker should be on your radar. A rather thick TPU rubber sole adds a protective layer between you and the cold ground. The quilted upper is monogrammed, albeit discreetly.
Made entirely out of supple calf leather, the Prada sneaker counts as a viable investment piece. You’ll get ton of wear out of them, find immense comfort in the soft embrace, and already have plenty of tops and bottoms to style them with. The sleek silhouette and lightweight design allow you get your steps in without any discomfort.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Brown
Materials: Calf leather
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Best Investment Travel Sneaker
Miu Miu Tyre Sneaker
Miu Miu has been releasing one stylish sneaker after another. From its collaboration with New Balance to these retro-inspired, highly practical shoes, you really can’t go wrong with any of its options. If you’ve grown tired of its more popular styles, we invite you to take these off-white shoes with on your next adventure.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Off White, Beige, Green, Grey, Pink, Yellow
Materials: Recycled polyamide, calf leather
Most Polished Travel Sneaker
Common Projects Retro Sneaker
Every once in a while, you’re going to need a more polished option while visiting cultural hotspots. These leather shoes take you to the opera house, the museum, and even spontaneous coffee dates. While they may not be your first choice for hiking up a mountain, they make a fine travel sneaker for everything else.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: White/Black
Materials: Leather, rubber
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