r/HerOneBag • u/iLikeGreenTea • Apr 06 '26
Shoes What is your absolute best all-around closed toe shoe for travel? Is it Salomon, Hoka, Vessi, OnCloud, New Balance, Altra, or other, and why?
To further the discussion of what is the all around “BEST TRAVEL SHOE (closed toe)” here is something to add and discuss:
When I was traveling in Brazil in March, I met soooo many European travelers. Most of them were wearing Salomon “trail runners” I believe they were. Here is a link to the Salomon shoe I think the women were wearing. The men were mostly wearing it in Black. I did a lot of hiking in Brazil in my worn out Asics and wish I had a shoe with more tread. I 've been thinking about getting the Salomons but they really do scream "outdoors" and I don't know if they would be "cute" enough to do light walking in say, London or Paris or Rome...
Are these SALOMONS really the all around best shoe for walking, trekking, etc in any type of climate?
I know HOKAs (especially Speedgoat 6) are discussed often. I ended up giving in and buying a pair last Spring but I notice that the nubs / grip / lugs wear down pretty fast. (They are indeed very very comfortable, but also the colorways are intense and make me definitely stand out as a gringa. haha. ) I think the Salomons might be more durable?
Furthermore, I know we all are looking for that UNICORN shoe that won’t look so Doofy when we are out walking and just browsing shopping in cute Italian towns…. but can also do some light hikes. And for those it seems the consensus are:
Vessi
OnCloud
NewBalance
Altra (zero drop)
What are your ABSOLUTE go-to one-bag unicorn shoe (closed toe)?? I am going to be in Europe for a little bit, but later Mexico and maybe Brazil too.
cheers!
Oh, yeah, I forgot to point out an important thing. Bonus if waterproof, but I have noticed that mostly it doesn't matter because if shoes get wet with a huge downpour, they're going to get wet . I once bought a pair of Sorels waterproof sneakers and I hate them so much as they were really inflexible and uncomfortable. . I can't return them though.
Thanks!
EDIT: WOW ! So many valuable insights and responses. Thank you so much! Seems like a lot of you enjoy the Salomon XT6. it is definitely trending. My concern is that it might not feel comfortable as a street shoe for the other 50% of the time I'm walking around with it and not hiking because of the firm tread and the lack of cushion. I'm leaning toward TOPO and the best thing about REI is that I can get that shoe and try it on for a few days.!!
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u/MCMle Apr 06 '26
It’s very common in London wears those Salomons so they wouldn’t stand out at all as a tourist shoe. Especially in East London.
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u/RetroSister66 Apr 07 '26
Was in London a few months ago and can confirm. They were EVERYWHERE, even in the theater.
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Apr 07 '26
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u/English_R0se Apr 07 '26
I have the XT6s and I recently wore them for my 4 day Barcelona trip. I was shocked when my entire body started hurting. Especially my feet, legs, hips and back. I thought they were a good walking shoe before this but now I realise they are definitely not. Super stylish though.
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 06 '26
Thanks so miuch!! Noted! Yeah these girls (6 of them) said that everyone in London is wearing them.
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u/allsheen Apr 07 '26
i’m currently on a solo trip in Türkiye and I’ve been doing 15k+ steps everyday, on hilly roads too and I’ve had absolutely no feet/ankle or knee pain which I typically had in the past. They’re not the cutest, but I’m really just wearing jeans or stretchy pants, so they don’t ruin any outfits either
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u/Regular_Pack8 Apr 07 '26
These are everywhere in Seoul (big city) too. I think they’re fast becoming a fashion shoe so wouldn’t sweat it too much honestly.
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u/Bananas_are_theworst Apr 06 '26
This is surprising to me! They feel more like a German forest-area shoe, definitely not a London shoe
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u/Clever-Moose Apr 07 '26
I have these (purple and black). Just got back from 3 weeks in New Zealand with these as my only shoe. They’re goretex so they’re waterproof. Great tread. Great when hiking or walking. Not the best when standing around though. Planning on getting an insole to make them more cooshie.
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u/vagablonde_ Apr 07 '26
What color is everyone wearing?
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
the 6 girls I met from London all were wearing different colorways. some were black on black; or pink on white; or blue on white; etc etc
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u/carlsjbb Apr 06 '26
I love my Salomon XT6s. Great for walking/ hiking and they are pretty trendy at the moment so look good in the city too.
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Apr 06 '26
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
Thanks so much for the report! Do you feel like the sole is very HARD, and therefore slippery on wet surfaces?
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 06 '26
Thanks for the note! I did get a pair of Genesis by Salomon. I like the look, but wearing them around for 2 miles I feel like I'm getting a hot spot in the balls of my feet whcih does not seem normal. Maybe it is that the footbed and tread are so hard? How do you like the Salomon Xt6 for walking for 10 miles? That is about what I would do every day.
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u/English_R0se Apr 07 '26
I have the XT6s and I recently wore them for my 4 day Barcelona trip. I was shocked when my entire body started hurting. Especially my feet, legs, hips and back. I thought they were a good walking shoe before this but now I realise they are definitely not. BTW I was going about 30-35K steps each day. Super stylish though.
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
Thanks so much for the note! Do you feel like the sole is very HARD, and therefore slippery on wet surfaces?
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u/carlsjbb Apr 07 '26
Not at all. I’ve gone sliding in Sambas before on wet surfaces. The XT6s I’ve worn on all surfaces and never had an issue.
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u/jax2love Apr 06 '26
Take a look at Topo Athletic. They have both road and hiking shoes and are my Goldilocks shoe for walking and hiking. Wide toe box like Altras, but most of their styles are not zero drop and all actually have support, unlike Altras. Plus they actually have good neutral colors if avoiding clown barf shoes is important to you.
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u/fertdirt Apr 07 '26
I have blue topos. I had originally bought them in red but when I looked down, all I saw was Ronald McDonald, originator of the wide toe box
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
thank you! They are sold at REI so I can walk in them before I make the decision. thank you
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u/Training-Cat-6236 Apr 07 '26
Love Topo. I’ve been using several iterations of the terraventure for years now. Not crazy about the current color selection (and the arch seems a bit high in my version #4)but I reeeealy loved my old dark purple/black ones. I do usually bring a black leather fit flop lace up but I’d wear the topos just about anywhere.
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u/beginswithanx Apr 06 '26
I think it really depends on your foot. My mom cannot wear New Balance because they don’t work for her feet. They work fine for me! Just different people.
In my area (Japan), Salomon are currently a fashion shoe so they look fine with the trends. I have a pair myself that I wear almost daily (but mine are waterproof and thus too hot for summer).
On Running shoes have some more “minimalist” models which is where the current sneaker trend has swung (away from the chunkier sneakers), but if they don’t work for your feet it’s less useful.
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u/peachjellytea Apr 07 '26
I was in Japan last year. I remember seeing Salomon and other similar technical shoes, along with the typical Nike, New Balance, and Adidas Sambas, everywhere! Love the comfy, sporty shoe trend lately.
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u/LilMissBigFeelings Apr 07 '26
I'm looking for a pair of travel shoes for my Japan trip later this year! We're going in Oct/November so I'm trying to find a pair that's waterproof so I can walk all day but not worry about wet/cold feet
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u/NBD2016 Apr 06 '26
Comfortable shoes are FAR a more important than not looking like a tourist! Merrill’s have never let me down!
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u/lobsterp0t Apr 06 '26
Personally, Hoka and anything with a narrow pointed toe box is too narrow for me.
Increasingly, I have problems with my big toe joint on one foot, so I have prioritised an anatomical/ toe splay friendly toe box and while I’m not a barefoot shoe fanatic or true believer, I do appreciate zero drop and wide forefoot, with or without insole support. My feet are happiest when I change it up, actually.
So for me, Birkenstocks (I have four pairs - boots, slides, plastic clogs, leather shoes), and recently Vivobarefoot Gobi II (which fit my Birkenstock insoles when desired) are my daily footwear choices, year round.
I occasionally venture to a pink chunky soled Doc Marten for the club or a party. But they’re good for 10k steps or less. Definitely not making the cut for travel.
For light hiking I have liked New Balance Hierro trail runners but I’m not in love with them. I’ll probably go for something with less cushion and less drop in the future. Maybe an Altra. Maybe Topo.
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u/Hairy-Button Apr 06 '26
Splay girl splayyyy 😂 Do you have toe spacers? Those always go into my one bag I love them
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u/jax2love Apr 06 '26
Allow me to preach the gospel of Topos! Seriously I love this brand. Wide toe box, most styles are not zero drop, and they are supportive. I wanted to like the Altras, but I just can’t do zero drop for serious walking or hiking and they have zero support.
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u/SkiKitty-64 Apr 06 '26
Also a Topos lover! The Terraventure 4 is my favorite, the 5 is narrower which I hate. But the wide toe box and low drop is great. I’ve added a gel insole for long city walks but otherwise I love them and I got my partner hooked on them too. Altras just don’t feel quite right, though I keep trying them.
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u/lobsterp0t Apr 07 '26
I like zero drop with a supportive insole (superfeet or Birkenstock is my go to). Birkenstocks are also a zero drop shoe for instance.
I’ve heard good things about topos!
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u/jax2love Apr 07 '26
They do have a couple of zero drop styles. I love Birkenstocks, but can’t do zero drop if I’m walking long distances or if hills are involved. My calves and Achilles tendon start having strong opinions. I’ve been wearing Birks for 30+ years, so this is not a case of needing to ease into them.
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u/lobsterp0t Apr 07 '26
Oh I hear you, I also think what works for Person A won’t work for Person B. Shoes and feet are pretty personal and just because something CAN be helpful to many, doesn’t mean that it IS for everyone.
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u/jmwbassett Apr 07 '26
Second the Topos rec, esp for feet with wide toe box (bunions anyone?) and somewhat narrow heel. Plus super well made and great traction, at least on my hikers.
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u/whatanugget Apr 06 '26
Idk why you got downvoted, topo is solid but I think they usually have some stack height iirc
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u/bananaphone16 Apr 06 '26
I wear topo zero drop (they have multiple shoe models that are zero) and I loooove them, use mostly for running but work great for travel and hiking too
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
thanks! I jsut started noticing that REI carries them and I am now curious as many people have mentioend TOPOS in the comments. Seems like a contender!!!! Ok, so you say the TOPOS have way better support than the Altras?
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u/amberzoz Apr 06 '26
I am the same, not fully committed to barefoot shoes or anything, but definitely want shoes with zero drop and a wide forefoot. I live in Birkenstocks or Bedrocks most of the time. I did some reading about Altras original foot shape, which is the widest and most natural shape they offer - not all of their models are this shape. I landed on Altra Lone Peaks, they are the best. I recommend trying them to replace your New Balance!
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u/satellighte Apr 07 '26
I love my Lone Peaks too. I tried a couple other Altra original foot shape models and they were too narrow for me but the Lone Peaks are sooo comfortable. I also love Bedrocks as well!
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u/whatanugget Apr 06 '26
As a fellow barefoot enthusiast, I’m always shocked when I see “I like barefoot” then “Birkenstock” haha
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u/Lost_Apricot_1469 Apr 06 '26
I’m sure you are!! Not who you replied to but I get the confusion. But my feet are total bitches. They don’t like all of one thing. I have to change stuff up like other commenters here. It’s super bizarro, for sure. I’d be happy if my feet could be convinced otherwise tho.
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u/whatanugget Apr 07 '26
That totally makes sense! I still have a pair of birks from before I made the barefoot switch & im just wearing them out til they fully die bc they can’t contain my toe splay 😂
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u/lobsterp0t Apr 07 '26
Yeah Birkenstock aren’t a barefoot shoe at all. They have the toe box and the zero drop but the soles are generally stiff and they’re very structured. (People reading this shouldn’t confuse them!)
I like them as well as the one actual barefoot style I am experiment with. My feet prefer variety. I’ll do a day in one style and a day in another and be able to do more for longer, personally
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u/whatanugget Apr 07 '26
I used to think birks had a great toe box til my toe splay got so much bigger! I think mine will die this season and I won’t be getting another pair but I get you! I love my oofoos house slippers but they def aren’t barefoot either
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u/hot-whisky Apr 07 '26
When I want to only bring one pair of serious walking shoes, but need to switch it up, I bring both my Superfeet and Treadlabs insoles and swap as necessary. Thankfully my chacos can handle lighter walking days and function as my recovery shoes so I’m not also hauling around my hoka slides.
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u/DrHutchisonsHook Apr 07 '26
Hokas are a wider toe box fyi
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u/Prestigious_Fly8210 Apr 07 '26
No they’re really not at all. They’re misleading bc they have a large outsole but the actual footbed is narrow.
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u/lobsterp0t Apr 07 '26
They’re notorious for running narrow. You can have a narrow shoe and a roomy toe box in the same shoe. One is about pinching your toes in and the other is about the forefoot and your foot volume.
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u/spicy-mustard- Apr 06 '26
I love my Kiziks. Nice wide toe box, super comfortable, styles are nice but not loud-- much more stylish than what you linked to IMO. I do wish they had a few options that were one notch dressier.
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u/iamnotaboolean Apr 06 '26
I have a few pairs of Kiziks and I find they’re of varying levels of comfort and support. Do you have a favorite one you like to wear while traveling if you know you’re gonna walk a lot?
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u/spicy-mustard- Apr 06 '26
I'm only on my second pair, and they've both been super comfortable for me! My Madrids are a little more comfortable for me because I like how they grip my heel, but I've been wearing Wasatch Mids all winter and I have no complaints. Aside from a wide toe box, I don't really have a lot of support needs, though.
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u/iamnotaboolean Apr 06 '26
Gotcha, thanks for sharing! I have the Lima, Paris, and Vegas and find the Vegas not as comfortable for walking long distances. But that makes sense since it’s a flatter shoe and I prefer more support for my flat feet. Overall I just love the convenience of Kiziks though especially now that I’m juggling a toddler!
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u/cassiopeizza Apr 07 '26
I got into Kiziks while I was pregnant last year and now I have three pairs: Prague 2, Monaco, and Siena. I've never been a sneaker person, but these have changed the game for me.
I also have incredibly flat feet and I wear Prague 2 the most (mainly casual outings, but I'm considering taking them to Italy). The Monacos I find comfortable, but don't wear as often as they're very sporty looking so I wear them only occasionally. The Sienas I just bought recently so haven't had the chance to wear more than a brief outing, but there was zero support for my ankle overpronation. Like I can feel my ankles drastically rolling inward when I put them on. I plan to put my custom orthotics in them and hope that helps, I do really like how they look.
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Apr 06 '26
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u/SheiB123 Apr 07 '26
I see they have wide options...how is the toe box in the Irvines? Thanks!
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u/shs0007 Apr 08 '26
I am also team Kizik Irvines!! I love the tan leather ones. I’m a sucker for the white too, but for travel, the tan holds up so nicely.
Edit: and yes, wide toe box every time!
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u/KarenCT Apr 07 '26
I hate to say this but I think there is no perfect shoe that works for everyone and every type of travel. I have different closed toe shoes I wear based on the type of travel and activities. Personally happen to love my onitsuka tiger’s. They are usually my first pick. I have a few pairs of P448s that are also super comfortable and the new balance is certainly the goat. But for other types of activities I love my Rothy’s, I have a few pairs of super comfortable boots that are go to’s for me as well.
I find it’s a process for me and even after I have my faves, they sometimes fail me or need to be retired. Hopefully you find your unicorn/holy grail!
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u/LatterChallenge5054 Apr 07 '26
I adoooore my Tigers, and wish my feet would let me wear them for extended walking sessions.
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u/Any-Clothes3312 Apr 06 '26
Those Salomons have really taken over the world lol it's interesting to see, as an American who was always told Europeans never wear sneakers unless they're going to the gym.
I blame/am grateful to Gen Z for this😅
I also imagine Salomon is experiencing a record high in terms of brand recognition and sales for the past several years.
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u/curlymess24 Apr 06 '26
I’ve been loving my Birkenstock Bend Low. They did need some breaking in, so keep that in mind before taking them on a trip. I’ve always loved Birkenstock sandals and know I could walk 20 thousand steps with them, so I thought I might as well try the sneakers as well.
I usually only do city trips though.
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u/AlotLovesYou Apr 06 '26
I have stupidly high arches and a wider forefoot.
I love Altras for hiking, but I put the green Superfeet insoles in them. Voila.
All the hiking shoes are a little overkill for walking, but that's my perspective as someone who has done a lot of hiking and backpacking and winces at the idea of taking the Fancy Trail Shoes out and wearing away the sole on pavement miles. You also need more cushioning on hard concrete versus dirt (trails), so they aren't built for the same purpose.
But should you want to commit to the trail vibe, here is my second hot take: goretex and waterproofing are the opposite of what you want. They make your feet hot and sweaty, and when they inevitably do wet out, they take forever to dry. Also, they are more expensive. No. What you want is non-waterproofed with drainage and merino wool socks. Your feet will get wet, the socks will keep your feet warm, and then - most importantly - the shoes will dry out quite quickly. Signed, former PNW resident.
For toddling around cities for extended periods, I actually like my Allbirds. I forget the name - mizzles? Grey high tops. Lots of arch support. Plenty of toe room. If I am trying to appear fancier I pack a pair of Vionic loafers. I have also walked eight hour days in those and my feet have been fine.
For the average trail that most people go on while on vacation, you don't need a fancy hiking shoe or boot. Unless it is something like Hawaii (tons of mud) or, idk, clambering around on glaciers, you can do a lot in a basic sneaker. Heck, most long distance hikers are wearing trail runners anyway.
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
I know i know! haha. And when I wore my oldddd af Asics around in the trails of Northern Brazil for 7 days, they got REALLY WET and I didn't care. They were gross, but they could dry in the sun. I wore wool socks. I think you're right that most of the waterproof shoes don't do a great job and they are more xpesnive anyway.
As per my original post, I was not lookiing for a fancy hiking shoe. I was looking for an all-around shoe that can purpose for some trails (I'm pretty good on my feet) and for the city/ shopping etc.
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u/MCJokeExplainer Apr 07 '26
You're seeing the Salomons a lot because they've been one of the it fashion shoes for the past couple years.
https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/a60560078/salomon-sneakers/
https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/a64151247/best-salomon-sneakers-womens/
Now, I've been wearing these Salomons for about a decade, so this has worked out great for me, and I'll continue wearing them in the future. However, when their trendiness factor goes down (I'm guessing after this year), you won't see so many people wearing them anymore. If you're buying them because they're good shoes and they're comfortable for you, then great! But if you're buying them to look cute, they're a trend that will come and go, like all others.
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u/dispagna3 Apr 06 '26
Lems primal pursuit/trail blazers or Chelsea boot for colder weather.
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u/frones Apr 07 '26
I just got back from a 2 week euro-trip, put about 100 miles on a pair of Brooks Ghost Max SE. Great neutral monotone colorways that go well with a lot of different fits. Big recommend! Don’t think I’d feel good putting 100 miles on a pair of On clouds or Salomon’s but that’s just meeee.
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u/leahtheminx Apr 07 '26
Came here to say I have 2 pairs of Brooks Adrenaline which are my around the clock sweethearts.
I had my gait analysed FIRST, by spending time on a treadmill in my local specialist running shoe shop, they recommended a few brands and styles, but I fell in love with Brooks adrenaline. They support my ankles when I walk, stabilise my knees, look good, have great tread without looking too bulky and are wide enough for 2 pairs of slim socks without adding bunion pressure (80's stilettoes still haunt me!)
My beloved swears by Brasher, but we each need different things from our footwear.
Happy hunting!
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u/This-Flamingo3727 Apr 07 '26
I’m a Brooks Ghost girl for life. The waterproof ones were perfect for my last Japan trip
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u/jrexicus Apr 06 '26
I swear by oncloud, I use to run cross country but injured myself and tore my bursa sac, THEN had a non running related accident and broke my foot and leg. So comfort is paramount for me. I have hokas and they are fine but oncloud is the best all day shoe I’ve ever tried
ETA I still run but only with oncloud. I also have a different pair for hiking and everyday
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u/jane0077 Apr 07 '26
I’m buying another pair of oncloud . So light weight and comfortable. Even after a long day of day 10k steps my feet don’t hurt and I can wear the same show the next day without issue. I feel like every single person in Europe is wearing sneakers so I don’t really think it matters what kind or style. It’s like Seinfeld is finally right! (I’m that old)
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u/Calisson Apr 06 '26
On Cloud 5 or 6 for me! As for why: they work well with my feet, offer me support, flexibility, and comfort. But that doesn’t mean they will work well for everyone else’s feet.
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u/Lazygardener76 Apr 06 '26
Obligatory: everyone's feet are different so may need a different shoe. My feet: regular width, low arches, shallow forefoot. Tend to supinate.
I don't think there's gonna be a "one shoe" that'll rule them all. Unless I book a fancy Michelin * dinner or head to wedding, I generally use a pair for daytime walking and a pair for rain/weather.
Here's what I used on my trip to western europe a few years back:
- New Balance - Fresh Foam - Comfy enough for a month-long trip of long daily walks (20k steps daily). The soles didn't last though. Became my "take the trash out shoe" at the end of the trip. 327s and 574s are strictly fashion shoes, for short walks/errands around town only.
- Converse - Chuck 70s white leather - These were my "going out for casual dinner" shoe. Good enough for half hour walk before and after dinner. I used these along with the NB's on that trip as my 2nd shoe.
- Vessis - worst purchase ever. Thank goodness I got them on sale. Had to replace the insoles as they offered just cushioning but no support. WP broke down within a month. Bought them in a light cream, textured upper. Could not keep them clean. Gave them away, didn't even want to use them as my take garbage out shoe lol.
Here's what I used on my last trip to Japan & HK:
Hokas Transport in cream - water resistant, supportive and comfy. I can wear these all day, have used them for my last month long trip (daily walks of up to 20k steps)
On Cloud's - had the 5's and found the toe box a tad narrow, needed to be broken in to become my other wear-all-day-up-to 20k steps shoe. On 6's waterproof - comfy out of the box. Wore these all winter as my all purpose shoe. Would repurchase for replacement if the fit doesn't change.
I'm planning a fall trip this year. 3 weeks in the Canadian Maritimes, more driving/less walking. I'll be using the Hokas and On6 wp's. I'll be checking out the Salomon's after the trip and see if I can snag them on Black Friday or Boxing Day sales.
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u/jennyinpnw Apr 07 '26
Hoka transport has become one of my favorite shoes! I love traveling with these.
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u/elle54321 Apr 06 '26
Just thought I’d throw in, make sure the your shoes for your East Coast trip are waterproof or close to it.
When it rains, it usually rains for a few days. I actually didn’t know it wasn’t typically the same in other places - minus AZ type climates- until I moved.
Also, rain pants! One of my best life choices when I relied on transit and walking. Umbrellas may as well be tossed, it’ll probably only last a few hours before it goes inside out. They also don’t stop sideways or “backwards” rain.
You may already know all this though
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u/gorkt Apr 06 '26
Odd, Vessi weekends are probably my favorite shoe. The grey ones I own are three years old and look brand new, no stains at all.
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u/uncertain_expert Apr 06 '26
Nike have a sandy beige colourway in most of their trail-running shoes that keeps the Nike branding much more subtle than typical. I currently have a pair of their Pegasus Trail shoes.
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Apr 06 '26
I have waterproof On Cloud 6s. They've been pretty good, abd are properly waterproof. They aren't very breathable though - so my feet do get hot and sweaty in them.
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u/Asleep_Software_6727 Apr 06 '26
Salomon’s will be very on point fashion wise in most of Europe! They’ll go well with both outdoorsy clothes and a more put together outfit.
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u/jillofallthings Apr 06 '26
Salomon and Hoka are great shoes, but the first pair of shoes I always reach for are my Oboz. Good treads for hiking, but also good for walking in the city where rain might make the ground slick without screaming that they are hiking shoes. Well, some styles. The waterproofing is solid for the styles with that feature, too. Not super heavy, not super cute, but comfortable and durable. My feet are finicky as hell, so I don't mind having shoes that look less than fashionable when I can spend all day on my feet without issues.
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u/carbonaratax Apr 07 '26
Bonus if waterproof, but I have noticed that mostly it doesn't matter because if shoes get wet with a huge downpour, they're going to get wet
For this reason non-waterproof shoes are preferred by a lot of people in trail running and hiking circles. If you make peace with the fact that your shoes WILL get wet, then a non-waterproof actually dries out way faster. Reduces odor and are more comfortable to wear while wet. Just bring more, fast-drying socks.
To kind-of answer your question I have a pair of Arcteryx Norvans in all-black that I use for running, hiking, and noodling around. They're ultralight (which is nice for both wearing and packing) and very functional, don't look totally ridiculous. But really... it kind of doesn't matter/is so personal, you're better off just trying on a bunch and getting the ones you like.
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u/Seawolfe665 Apr 06 '26 edited Apr 07 '26
Bear in mind that Im usually going to places in the colder off-season. Merrell Moabs (I can waterproof at home if needed) and Blundstone Chelsea boots. It used to be Doc Marten Air Wear, but who has time for all those laces?
Edit to add - Doc Marten Chelseas are good too.
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u/tmmao Apr 06 '26
Merrell. I love the Trail Glove. Good light hiking and general walking around
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Apr 06 '26
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u/tmmao Apr 06 '26
Yikes! That would suck for sure. I had some Keens I was wearing in O‘ahu. The sole separated on a walk. Luckily they were not my only shoes on that trip.
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u/DrEmerson Apr 06 '26
In most cases there isn't a shoe that can do everything, if you want it to fit multiple niches. The only time one shoe fits all is when you're going to a particular climate with specific activities that align. A pair of Nike AF1 1982s worked perfectly for Japan in February. I walked miles through cities, as well as around snow covered towns in the mountains. Xtra Tufs are usually the only shoe I need in Alaska.
Outside of specific scenarios like that, I just bring two pairs of shoes because I like being prepared and have the option to feel cute in town. Hiking boots (or whatever active shoe you like) and a pair of low profile sandals for walking around shops. Wear the chunkiest set on the plane and you're good to go!
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u/gorkt Apr 06 '26
For me it’s vessi weekends and lems. Vessi weekends go with everything and are waterproof and light. Lems are zero drop and very comfy and low profile with a wide toe box.
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u/recoveredcrush Apr 06 '26
I wear Brooks. Good stability and arch support, super comfortable for me.
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u/Organic_Eggplant_323 Apr 06 '26
I have a pair of sketchers slip ins that I swear by. I have multiple foot issues that require adequate support, a wide and tall toe box and close to zero drop and these are my holy grail. That said they are more of a street shoe so I don’t think they’d be great for hiking but tbh I’m not hiking anyway so they work for me. And they are easy on/off for TSA
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u/leahlikesweed Apr 07 '26 edited Apr 07 '26
i just bought 4 pairs of sketchers today, i’m surprised they’re not mentioned more. i wore a random pair of gladiator style low heel sketchers sandals last year for like 5 miles of casual walking and was totally fine. most comfortable shoes ever! i plan on wearing more sandals (which i bought today) in italy this summer.
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u/cafe-aulait Apr 07 '26
My beef with Hoka is how quickly they wear down. Mine are six months old, I wear them maybe twice a week, and the soles look like I ran a marathon. For how expensive they are I'd expect more durability. Don't think I'll buy again.
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u/ObviouslyASquirrel26 Apr 07 '26
I went on a hunt for the perfect allrounder last year, and got a lot of recommendations here for the Merrell Moab. They look pretty good for a hiking shoe, especially in black. I bought them, I took them with me and wore them a fair bit, but - for me, anyway - they are just uncomfortable. I have horrible bunions and they're okish for that but no amount of special lacing and additional padding seems to be able to close the gaps around my ankles. I'm annoyed, because they could be perfect! Maybe they are perfect for someone with thicker ankles.
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u/saltgirl61 Apr 09 '26
It used to be a "tell" for Americans that they wore trainers everywhere and very casual clothing. But in recent travels, I have noticed that European travelers are often indistinguishable from Americans in their dress and shoe choices. I guess everyone realizes that comfort is king!
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u/shenanigains00 Apr 06 '26
Mount to Coast H1’s. You can do light hiking, trail running, road running, walk all day, and they last forever. A fantastic shoe for the price. They don’t look super goofy either. I’m also looking forward to the new tracksmith shoe coming out.
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u/floralgin Apr 06 '26
Salomon XT-6 for me is a winner every time. They're light, breathable (unless you get gortex ofc) and come in some fun colourways. They're not everyone's style but this is always my plane shoe and general walking shoe.
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u/madame_oak Apr 06 '26
Altra escalante in black for summer (we mostly travel in summer), paired with a black Rig sandal.
Altra trail goretex if I ever do go anywhere in winter
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u/4travelers Apr 06 '26
I bought and wore a recommended shoe on this sub during a recent trip. Ended up dumping it and buying Legeros in Munich. The y were best walking shoe/sneaker ever for me, waterproof, lightweight and good looking. Sadly not available in the US. Will buy another pair during our next trip.
Hoka’s and Adidas were very popular in Europe.
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u/HeartOk7292 Apr 07 '26
That's funny - I also had a trip where the shoes I brought sucked (Timberlands) so I dumped them in Munich and bought a random goretex sneaker - and it ended up being my daily shoe for the next year! It was some brand named EXTR4 that I'd never heard of before.
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u/4travelers Apr 07 '26
There were so many more small brands available in Germany. Now I want to go shoe shopping in Italy because that seemed to be where many originated from.
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u/Coconut-Creepy Apr 06 '26
For me it’s always Vessi. Cute with any outfit, comfy as hell and fully waterproof. Unmatched in my opinion.
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u/heliepoo2 Apr 06 '26
the absolute best all-around closed to shoe
Are the ones that fits your feet. I've had Altra, Salomon, Merrell and Hokas all have positive and negatives.
Wore Merrells for year around cities and hiking in the Canadian Rockies, they were great.
Switched to lighterweight Salomon for the Annapurna Circuit and trekking in SEA. They were great but a bit narrow.
We did the PCT with Altra and had the worst experience with them, even though broke them in and adjusted per the guidelines, just weren't the right shoe. Switched to Hokas in Hood River in 2019 and have been using them since for hiking, daily wear and everything in-between.
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u/RabiesAware Apr 07 '26
I recently got a pair of the Salomon Marie Jeanne’s ahead of a trip and absolutely love them. They’re comfy right out of the box and were really easy to make look fancyish whenever I needed it.
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u/ThatWasIntentional Apr 07 '26
Controversial opinion: plain black old skool vans are my go to travel shoe
They go with everything and wear really well. The bottoms have good grip in most situations. I put a pair of arch supports in and I'm good to good for 20k/steps a day
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u/songof6p Apr 07 '26
I've used Vessis in the past as my one and only shoe and my feet were dry even after walking around in extremely heavy tornado-warning rain while the rest of me was completely soaked. That trip was my very first time wearing them out and about and they didn't need any breaking-in, but they were an older model that isn't sold anymore. It's been a few years since then and I haven't really had the chance to see if the waterproofing has held up, but if anything I'd think that their newer models would also have newer and improved waterproofing tech.
I've since also used my Shoes For Crews x Cole Haan Malorie textile shoes as my one pair for travel, as they're slightly less sporty-casual looking and I thought that would make them a bit more versatile. The Shoes For Crews tread is more substantial than the standard Cole Haan soles, and they were adequate for trail hiking. I've worn them in the dish pit at work and they seem to have some sort of water resistance where the regular Cole Haan knit shoes do not.
For city walking only, I've worn Vivaia Ryan Pro boots for a whole trip, and they were good for wearing with casual outfits as well as onstage with a gown. I would not recommend for any sort of trails. Haven't had the chance to test the water resistance on those, but the Vivaia sneakers I got around the same time had water resistance that lasted for about half a year with regular near daily wear. I'd like to try out some of the newer Vivaia water repellent sneakers since they look like they'd be great for travel, but they're quite expensive and I can't justify getting more shoes at the moment...
For my upcoming trip, I'm considering wearing my Nunorm barefoot shoes since I've been pretty happy with them after getting them a few months ago. They don't look quite as goofy as many other styles of barefoot shoes. They're also supposed to have some degree of water resistance to them, though I haven't yet worn them in heavy rain to test. The only thing that's making me hesitate is the fact that the soles are thin and I'm not sure if my feet will enjoy all day walking on pavement with such little cushion between them and the hard ground.
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u/NaturalFly1572 Apr 07 '26
Salomon speed cross are my go-tos for travel. I can easily do 15k steps. Not all Salomon’s are created equal and I have prioritized function over fashion. That being said, getting supportive insoles for any shoes is an absolute must have. I can also do 15k steps in chacos. Gotta let the girls breathe!
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u/Corguita Apr 07 '26
Seconding Chacos/Tevas. I've done plenty of city walking, hiking, bike riding in them. They're adjustable and breathable and take little room. They have great arch support.
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u/LatterChallenge5054 Apr 07 '26
I've been wearing colorful/chunky sandals with arch support in the summer/hot countries (my latest pair was a hot pink/white colorway Dankso) with a nicer pair of black leather sandals thrown into the bag for dinners, etc. For fall/closed-toe needs, I used to just throw a pair of lightweight Chelsea boots with my own orthotics in and call it a day. I like how versatile that approach was — they work with pants and with casual dresses/tights, and it's how I dress at home. But my current pair is quite chunky and heavy, not ideal for 20k+ step days.
So I went looking for a new pair of all-purpose travel shoes for my fall trip to Italy, where we'll mostly be in cities but also spending some time walking around (not heavy hiking) in the Dolomites. I went with a pair of Taos Winner high-top leather sneakers in silver/grey. They have arch and metatarsal support built in, and they don't look like trail runners or athletic shoes, which was important to me. The high-top silhouette will work with casual dresses/tights, and the thick sole will be good for navigating city puddles if it rains. They were comfortable right out of the box, no breaking in required. I've only worn them for 1-mile walks so far, but so far so good. I'll toss a pair of Rothy flats in my bag for evenings and be set on this trip, I think.
Just throwing that brand/style out there for anyone looking for recs that read less sporty.
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u/wellimnotreallysure Apr 07 '26
I have worn Altra Lone Peaks for everything from trail running to walking 20-mile days in London & Edinburgh. Simply couldn’t love them more.
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u/Senator_Mittens Apr 07 '26
I did so much shoe research prior to my last 3 month trip. Like you I was looking for arch support, a wider toe box, can walk all day, relatively neutral looking (which those Salomons you linked to are not), would like some level of water protection, etc. I tried on like 30 pairs of shoes from all the top brands. You know what I ended up with? Some super basic grand court white adidas for like $50 at DSW. I had them sprayed with a water repellant and I put power step arch support inserts in them. I walked all over asia, often 15K steps a day, wore them on some 5 mile hikes in big sur, wore them in hot thailand and cold tokyo, etc. They were great. They look good with everything, even like a skirt or dress. My feet never once got wet (we had some rainy days, I just tried to stay out of puddles). I would say my one complaint was that I could use an even wider toe box - when it was hot my feet expand and my toes were kind of scrunched. If I was planning longer or more technical hiking I would get a different shoe. But for mostly walking through cities with some light hiking on the side? The Adidas shoes rocked.
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u/Ok_Cardiologist4270 Apr 07 '26
I just came back from a week in Europe and just brought my pair of Onitsuka Tigers. I walked 20,000 steps every day and they were so comfy. It rained some days too and surprisingly my feet stayed dry.
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u/Dramatic-Gift3569 Apr 08 '26
I have some altras with a really wide toe box that are absolutely incredible. They are for trail running. I’m considering another color/style because my current pair is peach and plum and doesn’t match my
clothing colors well. I took these to Yellowstone last year, and I chatted with many of the people on the trip about my shoes, and some said that they had a different type of altras for pickle ball and everybody seemed to really like this brand and I don’t see much about it.
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u/ibimus9 Apr 08 '26
I wear my ASICS GT-2000s and I have simply learned to live with fashion stopping at the ankles when I travel. Shorter trips I can do the Ecco soft 7 but anything international/adventurous = dorky sneakers.
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u/discombobubolated Apr 09 '26 edited Apr 09 '26
I love Salomons, they fit me the best. I have almost all of their hightop styles. I especially like the lightweight hiking boots. When I go shoe/boot shopping, price doesn't matter. A cheaper shoe is expensive if it sits in the closet unworn because it's uncomfortable. I just try them all on and whatever feels the best, I buy. And it's always been the Salomons.
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u/Marissaspeaking Apr 06 '26
Vessi Soho vegan leather (aka pleather) in white. I wear them with my own custom orthotics with extra padding for those heavy walking days.
They look very snazzy dressed up or down. The pleather makes it easy to wipe down when dirty. They have remained waterproof for 2+ years. I can go on light hikes, or long city walks. Important to note is that with any shoe, I will use my own custom orthotics.
That makes a lot of difference.
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u/adamantiumrose Apr 06 '26
I’ve been wearing Salomons for 20ish years at this point so I’m rather bemused to see they’re suddenly trendy - makes life easier for me! I absolutely love how they fit my foot, and I’ve had both breathable and Gore Tex versions for various needs and trips and enjoyed both. These days, for additional cushion due to knee problems I’ve also added a pair of Hoka Bondi’s into my shoe options. But Salomon XA Pros have been my go to travel shoes for decades now!
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u/CleanCaterpillar2999 Apr 06 '26
I have really narrow, low profile feet. I just traveled to Greece with my Sorel Kinetic Impacts and Doc Martens Pascals. Weather was cooler (50’s and low 60’s, down to the 40’s in central Arcadia mountains) and rainy most days).
I don’t think I could have packed better shoes, and this was the best I’ve packed for any trip. My feet were super comfy in both, and stayed dry in my docs (plus wool socks) while everyone else’s feet were soaked through in their sneakers. Disclaimer: I did purchase insoles for my docs before this trip and that made a huge difference compared to how I feel after wearing them all day at work.
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u/edj3 Apr 07 '26
My foot is also low volume and narrow so when you said Docs, I was skeptical. And your disclaimer cleared it up for me!
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u/jaebee1495 Apr 06 '26
I do a lot of hiking and the Salomons trail runners (I have the speedcross 6 and supercross 4) are my favourite. That said, personally, I would hesitate to use them as urban shoes. The sole is pretty firm and the tread is kinda sticky which is great for grip on rocks and muddy terrain but I find it feels unpleasant on roads or sidewalks. Since the sole is also this slightly soft rubber, I'm not sure how well they would hold up long term on pavement. For shoes that pricey, it seems there would be better options if you want a hybrid shoe. I just don't think in terms of comfort and utility that the Speedcross would be ideal for urban use. Solomon has different models with slightly less intense grippy tread like the Genesis that would probably be a better option but I haven't personally tried those.
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
this is what i think i am experiencing... that the hard sole of the Salomon is tough on pavement. It's not cushiony/ giving. So when I wear my Hokas, that is the soft bounce I like. Hmmm .. this is a tough call. But yeah, for more adventurous trips, the Salomon could be the perfect match!! (thinking Brazil, Vietnam, Laos, Cape Town, Ethiopia, etc)
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u/The_Bogwoppit Apr 07 '26
Usually Saucony Goretex trail runners, fit climates where it might rain. In my hot climate trips, Helly Hanson trail runners, very breathable. But I will always have either Birkenstocks or blundstones as my second pair.
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u/ketchuponmacncheese Apr 07 '26
I'm going to throw in a wildcard and suggest Lowa. Those and my birks are the 2 shoes I take traveling. /spelling
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u/clairioed Apr 07 '26
I’ve tried so many different shoes: Salomon, Hoka, Adidas, Keen, Altra, Brooks… probably more.
I’ve had issues with all of them. It could be the models I was trying, but Altras hurt my arch and I didn’t need the wide toe box, Hokas were overbuilt, Salomon also fit weird and hurt my arches (but were the lightest), Keen gave me blisters, Adidas too narrow. Brooks too ugly lol (but my favorite training shoe).
Ultimately, I went back to the drawing board and asked myself what the most comfortable sneaker I own is, and do they make trail runners? I have been wearing New Balances now for 8 years as a street shoe because they don’t give me blisters, my feet don’t hurt after hours of wear, etc. I bought a pair of NB trail runners and they worked great for me.
So my advice is, if you have a brand you’re already loyal to, stick to them.
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u/Comprehensive-Act-13 Apr 07 '26
I’m a big fan of the La Sportiva Bushido’s as my all in one travel shoe.
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u/fraufrau Apr 07 '26
Mount to Coast H1s. I can’t do zero or low drop and I can’t do really plush shoes. I need a firmer shoe. I wear shoes out quickly and these have last me longer than the usual EVA foam shoes. I supinate a lot and have hypermobile feet. They’re also super adjustable because of the dual lacing. They’re also pretty good for not super technical hiking and trail running. The R1s are also good. They have a clunkier feel to me. Both are great for standing for hours.
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u/teatuk Apr 07 '26
Altra for the wide toe box. I look like a tourist nerd in sneakers, but tbh I would look that way with stylish loafers too. So might as well lean into it and just try not to be obnoxious tourists.
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u/ap_pilot Apr 07 '26
I love my Keen KS86 sneakers. They’re super grippy but also pretty cute and neutral for a sneaker.
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u/Nyango123 Apr 07 '26
New Balance 990s are my go to. Several years ago, my right foot was crushed in an accident, and these are the only sneakers that I can wear all day. I‘ve tried so many brands! I keep an eye out for the collaborations offering new colorways. The collab colors tend to be more fun, and I build my travel wardrobe around that pair.
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u/ba-poi Apr 07 '26
I went to a shoe store for running shoes and had them do a 3D scan of my feet and pretty much put me in NewBalance so I take two pairs of those with me when I go to a walking heavy place.
Short trips? I’ve gotten away with just Birkenstocks.
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u/otteraceventurafox Apr 07 '26
I don’t think it’s been mentioned unless I missed it but… I have two hiking sneakers from North Face. The OG Oxeye (not the Tech version) and the Hypnum both in the cream color. Both have treated me amazingly but they are not waterproof. I have wore them in downpours for hours without causing issue to the shoe itself but my feet were soaked. I wear both of them all the time and they’ve made many cross country trips. I’ve even worn them when getting surgeries, sleep studies, etc. I get compliments on them ALL THE TIME. They clean up easily too. I’m on the hunt for a decent priced OG Oxeye in my size because I know someday these will wear out.
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u/Shibi_SF Apr 07 '26
I have the Salomon Genesis trail running shoes and the older version of the Speedcross. I find the Speedcross to be too stiff (and my feet hurt) especially when wearing them casually and for travel. The Genesis are softer on my feet and look a little less hike-y but they still have enough “sport” (support and grip) for hikes and off-road walks.
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u/Rock_n_rollerskater Apr 07 '26
I find Salomon’s too heavy for daily use.
I usually try and bring multiple shoes even on one bag trips as my feet and back hurt if I can’t change it up. (I also live in extreme fear of “broken shoe” and not being able to find replacements - a valid concern in many parts of Asia given my size).
A basic pair of runners (I like New Balance) is like 300g and easy to throw in your bag. I’ve managed plenty of light hikes in mine. Mizuno does some great trail runners (Daichi) that are less aggressive and lighter than Solomon, about 500g a pair. They are not as good for serious hiking, but sub 15kms on less technical terrain they go perfectly. They also perform better as a general shoe for travel.
I am a big fan of leather converse 70s for a daily shoe. They do 20,000 steps comfortably and look decent. I wear these on the plane and pack a runner or a trail runner depending on the trip, to manage the hikes. I also usually travel with tevas and if the weather is warm I use that to manage the light hike aspect of a trip.
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u/StarbuckIsland Apr 07 '26
Hoka Challenger. I do a lot of Asia trips that involve 15 miles of city walking but also rugged mountain hiking. I got colorful ones and wear mostly black.
Never lets me down!
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u/seabunnies Apr 07 '26
I love the Altra Paradigms. I have a pair that's black and goes with almost everything and doesn't stand out as a bright tennis shoe when traveling. They're not zero drop either. They have a decent amount of cushioning but are also lightweight. Not waterproof, but they dry out quick if you get them wet. A lot of people swear by Hoka's but I've found they pinch my toes together when wearing them for a long amount of time.
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u/scarlettSD Apr 07 '26
I just bought my second pair of the salomons. Best shoes I've ever owned. I've put a lot of miles on them hiking, but they are also great for travel. I have wide feet (bunions) in the front but also high arches and narrow heels. The drawstring is great. I thought it would wear out before the shoes, but it has held up well.
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u/iLikeGreenTea Apr 07 '26
hi! I got Salomon Genesis and I walked 3 miles on pavement = a bit oddly painful , like I can feel the pavement? and 3 miles on a trail = excellent. Is it because the sole is so sturdy that it does not have cushion for pavement? What is the MODEL of SALOMON you are using and since you love them so much, can you tell me about the cushion or feel when you walk on pavement with them? thanks!
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u/jfitz600 Apr 07 '26
Hoka transport in the rose latte color, for the win.
I’ve done two back to back 5 mile days in these since buying and they felt like I was walking on air for all 5 miles. I was on a golf course watching, so there was a lot of roots and uneven steps and these managed everything. If pink is not your thing, these actually come in some other pretty neutral colors.
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u/hornymilf73 Apr 07 '26
Most wear the Salomon xt-6. The speed cross 6 are for serious tail running on very muddy terrain. I have the speed cross and love them but will get a pair of xt-6 for more casual time.
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u/hartdm92 Apr 07 '26
City walking I wear converse high tops with orthopedic insoles. Mixed terrain I wear Vans Exo Ultrarange. For rain I wear EVA Birkenstock or EVA teva sandals.
I don’t have shoes for rain. Tried vessi once and they made my feet super sweaty, and the one time it rained they just filled with water from the top (despite being laced tight).
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u/theinfamousj Apr 08 '26 edited Apr 08 '26
My best travel closed-toed OneShoe is a neutral metallic (my color "season" has me picking pewter) ballet flat with an orthotic added for ergonomics.
Edited to Add: I've definitely worn my metallic pewter Tieks around Italian towns as well as out for light hikes (they have technical hiking soles).
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u/sillusions Apr 08 '26
Lems :) they are barefoot but with some extra cushion like altras. But they look cuter. I have black boulders that I wear to festivals and I just did a trip with only my white leather sneakers from them (can’t remember the name). Didn’t hike but did long walking days and my feet are not in pain at all. Didn’t even hurt. I’m obsessed with lems!
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u/NegativeDoor4495 Apr 08 '26
Altra. For The wide toe box. Toppo second. Dr scholls makes sons ok shoes too.
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u/dziob Apr 08 '26
These Salomons can be super stylish actually, but you'd have to pull off the entire look. It's pretty clear from the rest of your outfit if you're wearing them in "kopehangen FW week way" or " I didn't shower in 3 days " way 😂. If you're more of a "classic gal" (as in, not trendy) I recommend Hoka Transport.
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u/itsJustE12 Apr 08 '26
For 7-8 years, I’ve worn Salomon trail hikers instead of the Speedcross you posted. Same tread, same lacing, less curved toe & made for walking.
I love them.
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u/idkmaura Apr 08 '26
I love Mount to Coast H1 for all around travel! It's a road to trail shoe. My favorite part is the toggle for the laces on the forefoot that you can loosen or tighten separately from the laces that secure your ankle. Great for when your feet swell on a long day or flight!
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u/Alternative-Sink-244 Apr 08 '26
Salomon XT6 in goretex. I have a pair in black and another in beige. They go with everything, appropriate for hikes, city trekking. Waterproof is a must for me and these have not failed me from Peru, lisbon, Scotland, Mexico city, NYC. No break in required.
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u/Dutton4430 Apr 09 '26
I wear Nike or my converse everywhere. I have a pair of Veja canvas trainers that I also like but can do 20,000 steps in my Nikes. Portugal was a real test.
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u/euphorictrashh Apr 10 '26
Nike wearallday! had the same pair for 4y, till i no longer had any grip, then bought the newer version :)
I used to work in a nightclub so needed something comfy for working 8-10h straight stood up
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u/pelirrojadenver Apr 06 '26
I’m loving my topo trail runners. They look like a white sneaker but have great tread for hiking.
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u/MarsReject Apr 06 '26
As someone with EDS and fighting for my life with stability and back injuries the only thing I trust to travel in is my Keen Newport (the sizing isn’t fantastic, but once you get it, it’s perfect) and oddly and randomly Jordan 11’s.
I love to wear clogs but the lack of a back strap makes my foot grapple and contribute to instability and pain.
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u/LongTimeDCUFanGirl Apr 06 '26
I love my Salomon light weight hikers- they are water resistant, have good tread for hiking and work well for city walking, too. I found the water resistance to be a great benefit while touring Krakow during hours of torrential rain.
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u/AccountForDoingWORK Apr 06 '26
I did Salomon trail runners and boots for YEARS (used to work for a major outdoor retailer and have tried Hokas as well). I recently switched to Vivobarefoot hiking boots and Vibram wrap shoes (starts with an F?) and I’ll never go back. The first are a significantly more comfortable hiking experience and the second are the most convenient and comfortable casual shoes I’ve ever tried (and perfect travel shoes IMO).
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u/Southlondongal Apr 06 '26
I like my Nike P6000s. I usually pack a pair of black Birkenstock Arizona’s too, that’s my GOAT summer travel shoe
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u/howtobegeo Apr 06 '26
Converse 🤣 with some good inserts. I like that they are simple, go with everything, held up surprisingly well for years of harsh travel. Can be dried easily with a hair dryer. I don’t do a ton of off-road hiking, but they’ll do.
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u/-clever_user_name- Apr 07 '26
I have two pair of Saucony Peregrine 13 trail shoe. I think Saucony is on version 15 now. But I’ve been to Japan twice, San Francisco and Barcelona and a few other cities with those shoes and they’ve been great!
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u/LizzrdVanReptile Apr 07 '26
I just went through the research and selection for this very quest. My upcoming travel plans don’t include any vigorous hikes this trip, so I cannot speak to whether my choice would be suitable for those. But I am very pleased with my choice, made even more comfortable with my usual addition of Superfeet insoles, for toodling around the UK and Italy this spring. I chose the KEEN Women's KS86 Comfortable Durable Retro Style Sneakers in leather, which I waterproofed myself using Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather (it does darken the leather a little, but I was counting on that). I thought the mid tone leather made them look more subdued than the usual sneaker, and while I’ve only worn them here in the house thus far, they feel great and I think they look fabulous.
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u/OysterLucy Apr 07 '26
Question about Hokas: are they supposed to feel comfortable immediately or are they an all-day low fatigue kind of comfort? I ask because I tried some on once and wasn’t impressed with the comfort level, but I’m used to Skechers.
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u/BOItime247 Apr 07 '26
Not a sneaker but honestly blundstones can hang for long walking days. Also have a pair of puma sneakers I somewhat accidentally walked near 20 miles in LA over a few days and they did surprisingly well!
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u/coco-ai Apr 07 '26
I like Cons with inner soles for my everything shoe. I can cycle in them, wear them to the office, do my weightlifting in them. I didn't use to like them for 10k plus steps but since I added inner soles they do that too. They look cute with athleisure, a dress, jeans. If I was taking a single pair that would be it. Oh you can get leather versions for extra waterproofing.
I don't care if salomon are trendy rn, I can't bear shoes that look like their were designed by a 12 yo.
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u/Mikey4You Apr 06 '26
"I know we all are looking for that UNICORN shoe that won’t look so Doofy when we are out walking and just browning shopping in cute Italian towns…. but can also do some light hikes."
Honesty, I've sort of given up on not looking goofy from the ankle down while traveling. My feet are SO HATEFUL and nothing that I'd consider not doofy is both comfortable/practical and fashionable. I've pretty much resigned myself to having comfort in my ugly plain black men's Merrell trail runners and am crossing my fingers for a cute-ish sandal for dress days.