After taking more than 3.5 million steps during trips this year, our writer selected their top picks, ranging from ‘barefoot’ designs for café hopping to cushioned sneakers for exploring castles.
Under various terms and privacy policies, National Geographic participates in multiple affiliate marketing programs and earns a commission on certain purchases. As a travel journalist, I’ve walked nearly 3.5 million steps across numerous countries in 2024. One key takeaway from my journeys is that footwear plays a crucial yet often overlooked role in the travel experience.
“Having a cushioned sole and offering excellent support, these shoes are ideal for walking on uneven surfaces,” says Chelsea Loren, a photographer collaborating with hotels and tourism boards globally. “I prefer these for a more fashionable choice that pairs well with jeans or a dress, allowing me to maintain comfort without sacrificing style.” We also like that this model is available in both nylon and leather versions.
I’ve worn these shoes across several continents, often walking for hours without noticing how many miles I’ve covered. They are lightweight and adapt easily to various environments, making them a staple in my suitcase. The Ecco Soft 7 tends to be wider than most shoes, so they might not be suitable for travelers with narrow feet.
The Danner Arctic 600 is a top choice for Leah Iverson, a hiking guide with the touring company Tauck, who has led groups globally. She appreciates the side zippers, which make it easy to put the shoes on and take them off, especially when it’s cold and you don’t want to remove your gloves. Allbirds offers some of the lightest travel shoes available, and the SuperLight Tree Runner might be the lightest of them all.
The Xero Prio features a “FeelTrue” sole designed to enhance ground sensitivity and a wide toe box for natural toe spread. Customers praise its lightweight and flexible design. We also appreciate the 5,000-mile sole warranty—if the soles wear out, you can replace them at a 60% discount off the retail price. However, the minimalist design may require some adjustment. We advise against transitioning directly to zero-drop shoes if you usually wear heavily cushioned footwear.
