Best walking shoes: Top-rated stylish and comfortable shoes you can walk in all day
To keep feet happy during long days out and about, a comfortable pair of footwear is a travel necessity. Whether you’re an active adventurer, a laid-back beach-goer, or a city explorer, different types of shoes will be needed to suit the different types of activities that will come up throughout your trip.
Sturdy construction and durable materials are one way to find a solid pair of walking shoes, but often give off the immediate impression of a stereotypical tourist wandering cluelessly through the streets. To avoid the dreaded tourist’s uniform, a pair of stylish and comfortable shoes fits the bill.
From heels to loafers, sneakers to boots, we’ve scoured the web for the Internet’s favourite shoes for every occasion. Scroll through for the top-rated shoes in every category you’ll need while on vacation.
Heels: Everlane Day Heels
What it is: More than 3,700 happy customers have raved about Everlane’s Day Heel, which was specifically made for walking all day long. They have a 2-inch block heel, rounded toes, and an elasticized heel for extra comfort to take you from day to night.
Customer review: “I really love the shoes. I get excited when I wear them. Comfortable yet stylish. No need for break in. High quality. Excellent for work. I already have been thinking about different outfits to wear with them.”
SHOP IT: Everlane, ($167 ($125 USD)
Sneakers: Adidas Stan Smith Shoes
What it is: Ninety-eight per cent of shoppers agree that they’re recommend these shoes to a friend, which has helped cement the Adidas Stan Smiths as one of the most ubiquitous pairs of sneakers the world over.
Customer review: “One of the best-sellers you need to try on! Comfortable and trendy. it's a must!”
SHOP IT: Adidas, $110
Sandals: Birkenstock Arizona Leather Sandals
What it is: Birkenstock’s iconic Arizona sandals have more than 18,000 Google reviews, with a solid 4.7 star rating. These cork-soled sandals have built-in arch support for all-day comfort, and leather uppers that mold to your feet over time.
Customer review: “LOVE IT! Definitely worth the hype. I wore these almost everyday in the summer and they were super comfortable. They run true to size too.”
SHOP IT: Urban Outfitters, $145
Flats: Lucky Brand Emmie Ballet Flats
What it is: These ballerina flats have a classic look and comfortable fit, making them perfect for travel. Their compact size makes them ideal for stowing in a carry-on and slipping them on before you’re out the door.
Customer review: “Not only are they absolutely adorable but they are super comfortable. I'm on my feet most days and these flats kept my feet sore free all day. You can easily dress them up or dress them down and because of their neutral colouring, they go well with all outfits.”
SHOP IT: The Bay, $85
Wedges: Rockport Briah Perforated Leather Wedge Sandals
What it is: These stylish wedge heels have a mesh upper for breathability on hot days, as well as an adjustable Velcro strap and a padded sole.
Customer review: “Absolutely love these! I bought these after years of avoiding heels due to several injuries, and I'm so glad I did! I wore them walking around New Orleans and didn't have any nasty blisters, foot or ankle pain. The material is pretty soft, and the straps are adjustable too.”
SHOP IT: The Bay, $120
Chelsea Boots: Sam Edelman Women's Petty Boot
What it is: Make traveling through the airport a breeze in these low-heeled booties that have an inner zipper, and a stacked heel for comfort, as the 2,000+ positive reviews can confirm.
Customer review: “Elegant and comfortable. I have these in four colours. They fit my wide hard to fit feet well and look good, with slacks and casual skirts.”
SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $99
Loafers: Steve Madden Feather Loafers
What it is: These patterned loafers have a pointed toe and a bold leopard print that can spice up any outfit while you’re on the road.
Customer review: “So comfy and fashionable. Have gotten tons of compliments!”
SHOP IT: Steve Madden, $120 CAD
Athletic Sneakers: Nike Air Vapormax Flyknit 3 Sneakers
What it is: Keep your feet happy with these cushioned sneakers that have pockets of air and knit uppers that stretch and move with you through your day.
Customer review: “Light as a feather and so comfortable. I get plantar fasciitis so I only wear supportive shoes and these are my fave. They look cute too.”
SHOP IT: SSENSE, $250
Flip Flops: Havaianas Women’s Slim Flip Flops
What it is: Cult classic flip flop brand Havaianas knows how to make a pair of comfortable shoes, with thousands of 5 star reviews to back up their products. These sandals have a thick rubber sole and textured thong that can go with you from the sand to the sea.
Customer review: “Love Havaianas! You can walk for hours in these and they are still so comfy!”
SHOP IT: Amazon, $18
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