Men's shoes for travel - how to choose comfortable and universal footwear?

Why is choosing shoes for traveling so important?

Traveling means long hours of walking, standing in lines, climbing stairs and carrying luggage. Improperly selected shoes can turn your dream trip into a real ordeal - abrasions, blisters, foot and back pain are the most common effects of poor choice of footwear.

The perfect travel shoes must combine comfort, versatility, lightness and appropriate aesthetics. They should be suitable both for exploring the city streets and for dinner in a restaurant.

In this guide, you'll learn the best types of shoes for different types of travel and how to pack your shoes to maximize comfort and minimize bulk.

Features of the perfect travel shoes

Comfort for hours

Shoes must be comfortable from the first moment - there is no time to break them in while traveling. Good cushioning, arch support and soft lining are essential.

Lightness

Every extra gram matters when you walk 15-20 km a day. Choose light materials and minimalist designs.

Stylistic versatility

Perfect travel shoes go well with jeans, chinos or even a smart casual outfit. The more deals they cover, the fewer pairs you have to take.

Easy to clean

Travel shoes will get dirty - choose materials that are easy to clean (smooth leather, synthetics) instead of delicate suede.

Quick assumption

At airports and hotels you will appreciate shoes that are easy to put on - slip-ons, Chelsea boots, Velcro shoes.

Suitable for the climate and terrain

The mountains require solid trekking shoes, the city - sneakers or moccasins, the beach - sandals.

The best shoes for city travel

Minimalist sneakers

When: Cities, light sightseeing, city trips
Why: Comfortable, light, universal, goes with everything.
Recommendations: Adidas Stan Smith, Nike Air Force 1 (white or black), Allbirds Wool Runners, Veja V-10, Common Projects Achilles Low.

Moccasins (loafers)

When: City trips with smart casual elements (restaurants, meetings)
Why: Elegant, easy to put on, comfortable all day long.
Recommendations: Driving loafers (the most flexible), penny loafers (classic).

Chelsea Boots

When: Colder destinations, autumn/winter, travel requiring elegance
Why: Elegant, versatile, quick to put on (elastic inserts), protect against rain.
Recommendations: Black or brown Chelsea boots made of smooth leather.

Chukka boots / Desert boots

When: Universal travel, moderate climate, smart casual style
Why: Light, comfortable, stylish, resistant to minor damage.
Recommendations: Clarks Desert Boot (classic), suede chukka in brown or gray.

The best shoes for active travel (trekking, outdoor)

Trekking low shoes (hiking shoes)

When: Mountains, trails, trekking, uneven terrain
Why: Solid grip, ankle support, waterproof, durable.
Recommendations: Salomon X Ultra, Merrell Moab, The North Face Hedgehog.

Hiking boots

When: Difficult trails, long expeditions, difficult terrain
Why: Maximum ankle support, stone protection, stability.
Recommendations: Scarpa, La Sportiva, Lowa Renegade.

Trail runners

When: Light trails, fast-hiking, mixed terrain (city + nature)
Why: Lighter than trekking shoes, better than regular trail sneakers.
Recommendations: Salomon Speedcross, Hoka Speedgoat, La Sportiva Bushido.

The best shoes for traveling in warm climates

Espadrilles

When: Summer, beach, warm climates, casual walks
Why: Light, airy, stylish, easy to pack.
Attention: Not water resistant, not suitable for long distances.

Boat shoes

When: Coast, cruises, seaside climate
Why: Seawater resistant, non-slip, stylish in a seaside context.

Sports sandals

When: Very warm climate, beach, swimming pool, relaxed walks
Why: Maximum breathability, comfort in the heat.
Recommendations: Teva, Chaco, Keen Newport (trekking sandals).

Light slip-on shoes

When: Backpacker travel, hostels, overnight stays in hostels
Why: Super light, easy to pack, perfect as a second pair.
Recommendations: Vans Slip-On, TOMS, Allbirds Tree Skippers.

How many pairs of shoes should you take on a trip?

Strategy 1: One Universal Pair (Minimalist Travel)

If you only travel with a cabin backpack, take one pair that will cover all your needs:
- City: Black minimalist sneakers or Chelsea boots
- Active: Trail runners (they also operate in the city)
- Summer: Minimalist sneakers or sports sandals

Strategy 2: Two pairs (optimal compromise)

Most travelers need two pairs:
- Pair 1: Main shoes (sneakers, Chelsea boots, hiking shoes) - worn during flight
- Pair 2: Spare pair (light slip-on, sandals, loafers) - packed in luggage

Strategy 3: Three pairs (maximum comfort)

For longer trips (2+ weeks) or mixed activities:
- Pair 1: Sneakers/Chelsea boots (city sightseeing)
- Pair 2: Hiking shoes (field activities)
- Pair 3: Sandals/espadrilles (relaxation, beach, evenings)

How to pack shoes for a trip?

Wear your heaviest shoes when flying

This saves space in your luggage and reduces the weight of the suitcase.

Use shoe bags or hotel caps

Protect your clothes from dirt from the soles.

Stuff your shoes with socks and small items

Maximize the use of space inside your shoes.

Pack your shoes sole to sole

This reduces the volume and protects against damage.

Consider foldable shoes

Some brands offer shoes that can be folded flat (e.g. Vivobarefoot).

Summary

Choosing the right shoes for travel is the key to comfort and a successful trip. Choose versatility, lightness and comfort - you will avoid foot pain and you will be able to enjoy every moment.

Remember: it's better to take one or two pairs of perfectly fitting, comfortable shoes than five pairs that will bother you.

A good pair of travel shoes is an investment that will pay off many times in the form of comfort and happy memories.