12 Comfy Walking Shoes I Recommend to Every Traveler as a Gear Tester and Former Travel Agent

Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, August 24th 2025 at 3:48 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Travel + Leisure’s Definitive Guide to the Most Comfortable Walking Shoes for the Jet‑Setter

When the next holiday is on the horizon—whether you’re jet‑setting to Paris, trekking through the Amalfi Coast, or simply wandering the streets of a new city—your shoes are the unsung heroes of a great trip. The recent Travel + Leisure feature, “The Comfortable Walking Shoes & Gear Tester’s Travel Agent Picks,” dives deep into the world of footwear, combing the market for shoes that promise blister‑free, all‑day comfort without sacrificing style or durability. The article is a blend of expert testing, real‑world usage, and insider insights, and here’s what you need to know.

1. The Testing Methodology: From the City to the Trail

The gear tester, who’s worked as a travel agent for more than a decade, took the “shoe test” approach seriously. Over a month, he strolled more than 200 km in three distinct environments:

Urban Commutes – Walking in bustling city streets, hopping over uneven sidewalks and staircases.
Light Trekking – Hiking on gravel trails and light forest paths for longer distances.
Rest Stops – Sitting on benches or resting on train platforms, testing the shoes’ ability to stay comfortable even after hours of inactivity.

He recorded key metrics for each shoe: sole grip, arch support, breathability, weight, durability, and price. Importantly, he also factored in how the shoes felt after a full day of travel—whether they developed pressure points, how well they held up in humidity, and whether the wearer experienced any discomfort or fatigue by the end of the day.

2. The Ten Shoes that Made the Cut

The article lists ten models, grouped into three tiers based on price and performance. Each entry includes a short summary of its standout features, the overall score from the tester, and where to buy it. Below is a quick recap of the finalists:

Rank	Shoe	Tester Score (out of 10)	Price Range	Highlight
1	New Balance 990v5	9.6	$175	Classic “dad‑shoe” meets high‑tech support.
2	Brooks Ghost 14	9.5	$150	Cushioning that’s both plush and responsive.
3	Hoka One One Bondi 7	9.3	$180	Ultra‑cushioned “cushion‑in‑a‑shoe” for long walks.
4	Adidas Ultraboost 22	9.0	$220	Mem‑Strap technology for a snug, breathable fit.
5	ASICS Gel‑Cumulus 24	8.8	$140	Gel cushioning for a smooth stride.
6	Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40	8.7	$130	Versatile runner that feels like a walking shoe.
7	Skechers Go Walk 5	8.5	$80	Ultra‑light, breathable mesh and flexible sole.
8	Allbirds Wool Runners	8.3	$95	Sustainable, breathable, natural‑material comfort.
9	Merrell Trail Glove 6	8.0	$120	Minimalist for those who prefer natural foot motion.
10	Keen Targhee III	7.8	$110	Great for uneven terrain, durable rubber outsole.

2.1 The Luxury Tier

New Balance 990v5 – The tester praised its combination of a supportive EVA midsole, a padded collar, and a durable leather upper. The shoe scored high on grip even on wet sidewalks, and its “Tru‑Flex” outsole made stair climbs feel effortless.
Adidas Ultraboost 22 – The “Boost” foam offers a springy return, while the knit upper gives a sock‑like fit. The shoe’s sole, made from a rubber blend that holds up well on cobblestones, was a standout for city travel.

2.2 The Performance Tier

Brooks Ghost 14 – The Ghost’s “DNA‑PWR” cushioning system keeps the heel soft without sacrificing forward roll. Its breathable mesh reduces moisture buildup, a common culprit for blisters.
Hoka One One Bondi 7 – Though the Bondi is heavier than other models, its maximalist cushioning makes it perfect for long days of walking. The rocker design helps transition smoothly from heel to toe, reducing foot fatigue.

2.3 The Budget‑Friendly Tier

Skechers Go Walk 5 – An excellent choice for travelers on a tight budget. Its “Memory Foam” lining and “Go Cushion” technology deliver a comfortable feel that lasts for 200 km.
Allbirds Wool Runners – Made from merino wool and eucalyptus tree fiber, these shoes are sustainably produced and keep feet cool and dry. The tester noted they performed well in mild climates but were less suitable for hot, humid destinations.

3. How the Tester Picks a “Travel‑Ready” Shoe

The gear tester’s final recommendations go beyond just performance. He explains what makes a shoe travel‑ready:
- Packability – Shoes that can be compressed into a carry‑on or a small suitcase pocket without crushing.
- Weight – Lighter shoes reduce the overall luggage weight, which can be a factor in airline baggage fees.
- Ease of Maintenance – Materials that can be wiped clean with a damp cloth or a quick rinse.
- Versatility – Shoes that can transition from a city stroll to a light hike without the need to change footwear.

The top picks—New Balance 990v5, Brooks Ghost 14, and Hoka One One Bondi 7—check all these boxes. They are stylish enough for a dinner, durable enough for a 10‑km hike, and lightweight enough that you can slip them into a duffel without extra bulk.

4. Tips for Buying the Right Shoe for Your Trip

Know Your Terrain – If you’re planning a mountain excursion, consider a shoe with a stiffer sole (e.g., Merrell Trail Glove 6). If you’re mostly on paved surfaces, a breathable mesh shoe is preferable.
Test in Advance – Try on shoes with the socks you’ll wear on the trip, and walk around the store. Pay attention to any pressure points or hot spots.
Bring a Backup – Even the best shoes can develop blisters. Packing a second pair or a quick‑fix bandage kit can be a lifesaver.
Check Return Policies – Travel can change plans unexpectedly; some retailers offer a 30‑day return window if the shoe doesn’t fit after the journey.
Look for Travel‑Specific Deals – Many brands have a “Travel” collection (e.g., Adidas Ultra‑Boost Travel), which often comes with extra features like anti‑slip soles or moisture‑wicking linings.

5. Final Verdict: Which Shoe Should You Bring?

If budget allows, the New Balance 990v5 is the gold standard for travelers who want a balance of support, durability, and style. For those who prefer a lighter, more responsive feel, the Brooks Ghost 14 or Hoka Bondi 7 are excellent alternatives. On a tighter budget, the Skechers Go Walk 5 or Allbirds Wool Runners deliver surprisingly robust performance for a fraction of the price.

Remember, the best walking shoe for your trip depends on your destination, personal foot anatomy, and how long you plan to be on your feet. Whatever your choice, investing in a good pair of shoes can transform a chaotic, blister‑laden trip into a memorable adventure.

6. Where to Buy

New Balance 990v5 – New Balance website, Amazon, DSW
Brooks Ghost 14 – Brooks Running, REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods
Hoka One One Bondi 7 – Hoka, Running Warehouse, Zappos
Adidas Ultraboost 22 – Adidas, Foot Locker, ShoeMall
Skechers Go Walk 5 – Skechers, Walmart, Target

(All links lead directly to the product pages on the respective retailer sites.)

7. A Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Shoe	Ideal Use	Key Feature	Price
New Balance 990v5	City walking & light hikes	Arch support + durable leather	$175
Brooks Ghost 14	Long day touring	Gel cushioning + breathable mesh	$150
Hoka Bondi 7	All‑day walking	Maximalist cushioning	$180
Adidas Ultraboost 22	Fashion + function	Boost foam + knit upper	$220
Skechers Go Walk 5	Budget travel	Memory foam + lightweight	$80

Travel + Leisure’s in‑depth testing underscores a simple truth: the right walking shoe can be the difference between a trip filled with fatigue and a journey brimming with exploration. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a weekend wanderer, the shoes highlighted in this article are a solid foundation for every adventure. Happy walking!

Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/comfortable-walking-shoes-gear-tester-travel-agent-picks-11796130 ]

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