Travel + Leisure Editors Reveal the Comfortable Shoes They Swear By for Airports--Shop Sneakers, Clogs, and More
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The Ultimate Guide to Editor‑Approved Shoes for Airports: Comfort Meets Convenience
When a trip stretches from one continent to another, your feet can become a major source of discomfort. That’s why Travel + Leisure’s editorial team has assembled a definitive list of the most comfortable, practical, and stylish shoes that make navigating airport terminals a breeze. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key recommendations, features, and buying tips found in the original article, along with additional details from the linked product pages.
Why Shoe Choice Matters at the Airport
Airports are a unique environment: long security lines, constant walking, and often cramped spaces between rows. The article explains that the right pair of shoes can reduce fatigue, ease the strain on knees and hips, and even help you slip through security faster when you’re wearing a supportive, lightweight pair. Key attributes highlighted by editors include:
- Supportive arch and cushioning – Essential for long flights and layovers.
- Lightweight construction – Prevents extra weight and makes carrying a bag easier.
- Breathability – Helps manage sweat and keeps feet fresh.
- Easy‑to‑clean materials – Protects your footwear from spills and dust.
- Non‑aggressive soles – Slip‑resistant for wet or uneven surfaces.
Editor‑Approved Picks
Travel + Leisure’s picks span three price tiers—budget, mid‑range, and premium—ensuring every traveler can find an option that fits their style and wallet.
1. Budget (Under $80)
| Brand | Model | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skechers | Go Walk 5 | $59 | Ultra‑light mesh, cushioning, perfect for walking long distances. |
| New Balance | 990v5 | $80 | Classic design, supportive, great for those who need a bit more structure. |
Both products receive high marks for their breathable uppers and comfortable heel support, making them ideal for short hops or extended layovers. Skechers’ Go Walk 5 also features a flexible sole that adapts to uneven floors—an important benefit in crowded terminals.
2. Mid‑Range ($80–$150)
| Brand | Model | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nike | Air Zoom Pegasus 39 | $115 | Responsive cushioning, durable outsole, sleek design. |
| Adidas | UltraBoost 22 | $140 | Primeknit upper, Boost cushioning, lightweight. |
| ASICS | Gel‑Kayano 29 | $150 | Advanced stability, Gel cushioning, excellent for travelers with a slight pronation. |
These shoes strike a balance between performance and comfort. The Nike Pegasus offers a familiar running‑style shoe that’s easy to slip on at security, while Adidas’s UltraBoost delivers the signature Boost foam for a plush feel. ASICS adds a layer of stability, beneficial for those who walk long distances with luggage.
3. Premium ($150+)
| Brand | Model | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks | Ghost 15 | $160 | Soft cushioning, roomy toe box, adaptable for various terrains. |
| New Balance | Fresh Foam 1080v12 | $170 | Ultra‑soft Fresh Foam midsole, sturdy outsole, breathable design. |
These high‑end shoes provide the pinnacle of comfort technology. The Brooks Ghost 15 is praised for its neutral cushioning and supportive fit, while New Balance’s Fresh Foam 1080v12 offers a plush feel that’s surprisingly lightweight.
In‑Depth Product Insights
Skechers Go Walk 5
The linked product page notes that the Go Walk 5 features a responsive “Flex‑Fit” sole that adapts to the foot’s natural motion. It also highlights the “Smart‑Fit” lacing system that distributes pressure evenly across the mid‑foot. The shoe’s mesh upper is engineered with moisture‑wicking technology, keeping feet dry throughout a busy terminal.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
The Pegasus 39 page emphasizes its “Zoom Air” unit in the forefoot, providing a responsive “bouncy” feel that eases the impact of each step. The shoe’s “Fly‑knit” upper ensures breathability, while the rubber outsole delivers grip on slick surfaces—useful for wet runways.
Adidas UltraBoost 22
Adidas underlines the UltraBoost’s “Boost” foam midsole, known for its excellent energy return. The shoe’s Primeknit upper is designed to adapt to the foot’s shape, offering a sock‑like fit. The product page also lists the shoe’s “Eco‑friendly” manufacturing process, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.
Brooks Ghost 15
The Ghost 15 page stresses its “DNA LOFT” cushioning—a combination of soft foam and responsive material that balances comfort with a supportive feel. The shoe’s “Glycerin‑Free” construction ensures a smooth ride without the stickiness of older cushioning systems.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12
Fresh Foam 1080v12’s page highlights its “Fresh Foam” midsole, engineered for maximal comfort. The shoe’s “Torsion System” improves stability during the foot’s natural pronation. The “Woven‑Tensile” upper delivers durability while allowing airflow.
How to Pick the Right Pair for You
- Assess your gait – If you’re neutral, the Pegasus or Ghost 15 works well. Pronators may lean toward the Kayano or Fresh Foam 1080v12 for added stability.
- Consider the trip length – Long flights benefit from extra cushioning (Adidas UltraBoost, Brooks Ghost). Short hops may get by with lighter models (Skechers Go Walk).
- Fit matters – Try on shoes in the afternoon when feet are slightly swollen. Check that the toe box feels spacious and the laces (or slip‑on) hold snugly without digging in.
- Test the sole – Walk on a smooth surface to feel how the sole reacts. Slip‑resistant tread is crucial for wet or tiled floors.
Quick Buying Guide
- Budget: Skechers Go Walk 5 – $59, best for budget travelers who value lightweight comfort.
- Mid‑range: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 – $115, ideal for those who prefer a sleek, performance‑inspired shoe.
- Premium: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12 – $170, the top pick for maximum cushioning and durability.
Final Verdict
Travel + Leisure’s editorial team has distilled the vast array of shoes on the market into a concise, actionable list that caters to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a budget‑conscious backpacker or a luxury jet‑setter, there’s a pair of shoes on this list that will keep your feet comfortable from check‑in to boarding. By prioritizing support, breathability, and lightweight design, these editor‑approved shoes transform airport walking from a potential chore into a stress‑free part of the travel experience.
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/editor-approved-comfortable-shoes-for-airports-october-2025-11840827 ]