Best Travel Footwear for Your Adventures

These shoes are made for walking, trekking, paddling, or simply loafing. Whatever your travel plans entail, having the right footwear tailored for your activities is crucial.

In this guide, we review a variety of shoes that will help you stay comfortable and stylish during your travels. From heavy-duty hiking boots designed to tackle the elements to sleek sandals perfect for sun-soaked beaches, we have you covered.

For Everyday Travel (Formal): Ridgemont Outback II Shoes

Ridgemont Outbacks are the perfect companions for travelers in need of comfortable shoes that still convey a hint of formality. Crafted from waxed leather, these boots blend style and functionality, suitable for both exploring Sarawak’s national parks and enjoying a night out in Singapore.

Notable features include:

• Waxed cotton padding around the ankle
• Metal eyelets for secure lacing
• Thick padded insole for comfort
• Grippy rubber outsole

However, be mindful that depending on your adventures, the white side stripes may not stay clean for long.

• Plus points: Stylish, sturdy, multipurpose
• Worth noting: Unisex design available in various colors
• Price: GBP135, US$135.00
• Rating: Quality 9/10; Practicality 9/10; Value 8/10

For Everyday Travel (Casual): Vans UltraRange Trainers

Vans, the ever-popular skate brand, has stepped into the travel footwear market with their UltraRange trainers. Designed for those who embrace exploration, these trainers are incredibly comfortable with an internal sock-like fit that allows for easy on-and-off wear.

Key attributes include:

• Light and breathable mesh upper
• Selection of bold colors

These trainers may not match the sleekness of Vans’ classic styles, but they offer practicality and versatility, making them ideal for travel.

• Plus points: Breathable and stylish
• Worth noting: Unisex with a variety of colors available
• Price: GBP75, US$80, €100
• Rating: Quality 9/10; Practicality 9/10; Value 8/10

For Serious Trekking: AKU Alterra GTX Boots

If your journey leads you to mountainous terrains, investing in quality trekking boots is essential. The durable Alterra GTX boots from AKU are designed specifically for challenging landscapes and uncertain weather.

Features of these boots include:

• Chunky tread for superior grip
• Shock-absorbing insole for comfort
• Gore-Tex lining to keep feet dry

Furthermore, the elasticated tongue helps prevent chafing and provides extra support.

• Plus points: Available in male/female fits and various colors
• Worth noting: Best for trekking, not mountaineering
• Price: GBP199, US$250, €250 approx
• Rating: Quality 9/10; Practicality 8/10; Value 8/10

For Splashing About: Keen Newport Hydro Sandals

Keen Newport Hydro sandals excel during various water activities, comfortably protecting your feet whether you’re paddling or rafting. With a quick-dry lining made from Cleansport NXT, these sandals effectively combat dampness and odor.

Additional benefits include:

• Enclosed toes for extra protection
• Wide range of color options

• Plus points: Versatile for both land and aquatic environments
• Price: US$100, €99, GBP79
• Rating: Quality 9/10; Practicality 9/10; Value 8/10

For Day Hikes: Asolo Greenwood GV Boots

Perfect for exploring trails and hills, the Asolo Greenwood GV hiking boots combine lightweight construction with ample padding. Designed with a medium-depth tread, they provide comfort without the heaviness of traditional trekking boots.

Waterproof Gore-Tex linings are an additional feature that proves helpful in muddy conditions.

• Plus points: Available in a variety of sizes and two widths
• Worth noting: Both male and female versions available
• Price: €237, GBP190, US$250 approx
• Rating: Quality 9/10; Practicality 9/10; Value 8/10

For Lounging Around: Mammut Sloper Flops

Whether you’re at the beach or setting up your base camp, Mammut’s Sloper Flops are a great choice. Lightweight and compact, they are easy to tuck into your backpack.

Features include a comfortable insole and grippy rubber outsole, designed to keep your feet comfortable and secure.

• Plus points: Fabric wicks away sweat
• Worth noting: Ideal for relaxation; not for active pursuits
• Price: GBP40, €49
• Rating: Quality 9/10; Practicality 8/10; Value 7/10

For Tackling the Trails: North Face Flight RKT

For those who partake in trail running or marathons, the North Face Flight RKT shoes provide excellent performance. Constructed with ultrarunner Rob Krar’s expertise, these shoes help enhance your running experience.

Characteristics include:

• Feather-light construction for quick movement
• Exceptional cushioning for greater comfort

• Plus points: Optimal for roads and well-groomed trails
• Worth noting: May not perform well on slippery terrain
• Price: GBP115, $150
• Rating: Quality 10/10; Practicality 7/10; Value 7/10