


7 Comfy Shoe Trends the Most Stylish Travelers Will Be Wearing This Fall--Starting at $40


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Fall 2025 Shoe Trends for the Modern Traveler
An in‑depth look at the styles, materials, and packing hacks that will keep you looking chic while you’re on the go.
When the crisp air of September rolls in, travelers are already planning their itineraries and outfits. In Travel + Leisure’s latest feature, “Fall Shoes Trends: Travel Outfit Style Tips 2025,” the editors sift through a sea of sneakers, boots, and sandals to pinpoint the footwear that will dominate the season—and that will also make packing a breeze. The article, which runs under a half‑hour of reading time, mixes trend‑setting recommendations with practical packing advice and links to the very products that will define the look.
1. The 2025 Fall Shoe Palette
Chunky “dad” sneakers are back, but with a modern twist. Brands like Adidas and Nike have released versions that use recycled nylon and plant‑based foam, giving the chunky silhouette a lighter, more sustainable feel. Color blocking is the rule of the season: think muted navy paired with a bright accent stripe, or earthy terracotta against a crisp white base.
Leather ankle boots remain a staple, but 2025’s iterations are lighter and more travel‑friendly. Everlane’s “Recycled Leather Boot” blends classic silhouette with a cork‑sole that resists scuffs and water. For those who prefer a bit of edge, Allbirds has released a “Cork‑Leather Hybrid” that can be worn both on cobblestones and on train platforms.
Slip‑on espadrilles make an unlikely hero. They’re airy, breathable, and can be slipped off quickly at security checkpoints. Vessi, the waterproof sneaker brand, has added an espadrille‑style collection that retains its water‑repellent qualities.
Loafers with hidden pockets are a nod to practicality. The Rothy’s “Travel Loafer” not only offers a sleek, recycled‑polyester construction but also includes a small, discrete pocket for passports or boarding passes—an ideal solution for frequent flyers.
Platform sandals get a subtle makeover. While the bold platform trends of the past decade fade, a small, neutral‑colored platform can add height without overwhelming a sophisticated travel ensemble. Brands like Birkenstock are testing “Compact Platform” models designed specifically for light trekking and urban exploration.
2. The Travel‑Friendly Checklist
The article distills several key attributes that every travel shoe should have:
- Weight – A pair that weighs under 250 g is ideal. Vessi and Allbirds typically hit the sweet spot with their lightweight construction.
- Durability – Abrasion‑resistant outsoles and reinforced toe caps keep shoes looking new on back‑streets and airports alike.
- Quick‑Drying – Rubber or silicone‑based soles, as seen on Vessi and Adidas UltraBoost, dry in minutes, preventing mildew during a rainy leg of the trip.
- Versatility – Shoes that can go from a hotel lobby to a city café without looking out of place. The article lists the Adidas Continental as a prime example: it pairs with jeans and tailored trousers, as well as with a midi dress.
- Comfort – Arch support, memory‑foam insoles, and ample toe room are non‑negotiable. All articles that mention Rothy’s and Allbirds point out their built‑in cushioning technology as a standout feature.
A handy packing tip the editors share: roll your shoes instead of stacking them. This method frees up space and keeps the soles flat, preventing scuffs.
3. Styling Hacks for a Polished Look
The article’s styling section is perhaps the most valuable for the fashion‑savvy traveler. Here are the key takeaways:
- Chunky sneakers + tailored trousers: The contrast between the bulk of the shoe and the sleekness of a high‑waisted pair of trousers creates a balanced look. Pair with a tucked‑in blouse for a polished office‑to‑evening flow.
- Ankle boots + maxi skirt: The length of the skirt balances the height of the boot, while a subtle heel (if the boot has one) lifts the overall silhouette.
- Loafers + jumpsuit: A monochrome jumpsuit, finished with loafers, can be worn straight through the day. Add a statement necklace for a night‑time upgrade.
- Espadrilles + oversized sweater: This combo keeps you warm and comfortable in cool evenings, while the slip‑on nature makes it easy to slip off after a long flight.
Color coordination is also crucial. Neutral shoe colors (black, brown, tan) provide the most versatility, while a pop of color (red, mustard, teal) can become a conversation starter. For those who want to keep things subtle, the article recommends layering with a lightweight scarf or a structured tote that mirrors the shoe’s hue.
4. Sustainable Footwear: Green is the New Black
The Travel + Leisure piece spends a few paragraphs highlighting brands that are doing their part for the planet. Allbirds and Everlane both focus on recycled and plant‑based materials. Veja, a French sneaker brand, uses organic cotton and wild rubber sourced from the Amazon. The article even links to a Gucci collaboration with Adidas, where the limited‑edition sneakers feature a vegan leather lining.
Beyond material choice, the editors note that fewer, higher‑quality shoes that last longer reduce waste. A “buy‑once‑last‑forever” philosophy is especially relevant for globetrotters who rarely shop for new shoes between trips.
5. Packing the “Essentials” Footwear Set
What are the three pairs that every traveler should pack? The article offers a concise answer:
- A lightweight, waterproof sneaker – e.g., Vessi or Allbirds – for daytime exploration and airport transfers.
- A versatile loafer – Rothy’s or Gucci’s new travel loafers – to pair with business casual or evening wear.
- A durable ankle boot – Everlane’s Recycled Leather Boot or Allbirds’ cork‑sole boot – for colder or uneven terrain.
The editors also recommend a shoe bag with removable compartments to keep the different styles separated. For those who travel by car, a small travel organizer with shoe pockets can be tucked into the backseat for easy access.
6. Quick Take‑aways
- Chunky sneakers, ankle boots, espadrilles, and loafers are the headline trends for 2025’s fall.
- Sustainable materials and quick‑drying technologies are key selling points for travel footwear.
- Versatility and comfort trump style alone; a shoe that can go from a café to a conference is invaluable.
- Styling hacks include pairing chunky sneakers with tailored trousers, ankle boots with maxi skirts, and loafers with jumpsuits.
- Pack three essential pairs: a waterproof sneaker, a versatile loafer, and a durable ankle boot.
In the Travel + Leisure article, readers are directed to specific product pages—such as the Adidas Continental, Everlane Recycled Leather Boot, and Rothy’s Travel Loafer—so that they can purchase or learn more about the shoes that are set to define fall 2025. The editorial tone balances trend‑setting enthusiasm with practical advice, making it a handy resource for anyone looking to stay stylish and comfortable on their next adventure.
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/fall-shoes-trends-travel-outfit-style-tips-2025-11801801 ]