25 PAIRS OF COMFY SHOES THAT’LL HELP YOU KEEP UP WITH YOUR TRAVEL GROUP THIS FALL
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. Water-resistant Dr. Scholl's slip-on sneakers you can slide on and off in a snap whether you're going through security or just don't have the patience to fuss with shoelaces. Travelers swear by them for their wide toe box, cushioning, flexibility, and removable (aka replaceable) insoles, which one reviewer with plantar fasciitis calls a game changer!
Promising reviews: "These shoes were recommended as comfortable walking shoes. They absolutely are the best! I bought these shoes to have a stylish, casual shoe for a NYC/DC seven-day tour. I walked an average of 7–8 miles a day, even in a downpour. Not a single blister or pain of any kind. If you are searching for stylish, casual, and comfortable, then these are it. Easy on and off, water-resistant, and coordinates with all outfits." —S. Lee
"Travel tested and approved — LOVE!! My hairdresser friend recommended these since she’s always on her feet. They were so reasonable, so I ordered them for my South Africa honeymoon trip. They were INCREDIBLE!!! My feet never hurt, and I walked a ton of miles in them. They also went with a ton of outfits, so I was very happy!!! I highly recommend!" —Leah Gwin Hoefling
Get them from Amazon for $34.95+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide sizes, and in 26 designs).
2. Waterproof Columbia hiking boots with reinforced toes, heel barriers, and an extended outsole that guards key wear points, so once you break them in, you can wear them for years and years of adventures to come.
And here's what BF editor Jenae Sitzes — who owns these boots — has to say:
"Reviewers swear these don't even have a break-in period, making them a great pickup for that last-minute outdoorsy trip where hiking and rough terrain are on the docket. Note that it's recommended to go up a half size in these boots to accommodate thicker hiking socks, and I found that to be true when I picked up these shoes myself — I'm normally an 8 but found an 8.5 in these to be totally comfortable. I also found that they hold up well even on my first hike — though I did admittedly still have some soreness around my heel area, this was after a hard, 7+ mile hike with lots of rocks and climbing, so I don't blame the shoes. They felt comfortable right out of the box and super supportive when I was clamoring over rocks and rough terrain. And though I only stepped in water a couple of times briefly, my socks stayed dry too. I got the brown color with red laces as pictured above, and they're even cuter in person, which is just another plus."
Promising review: "I bought these for my two-week national park road trip. Used them almost daily on hikes and several more times after the trip. These shoes are extremely comfortable, stiff around the ankles, and they saved my feet on many occasions. They are def waterproof, slip-resistant, and offer great grip while hiking. Totally recommend!" —Marta
Get them from Amazon for $24.31+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and 21 colors).
3. Reebok Club C Sneakers that 1) are hella comfy and 2) match just about everything so you have no excuse to pack several sets of shoes when one can do the job.
I have three pairs of these babies because they're just so comfortable straight out of the box. You don't have to worry about blisters, and they don't look out of place with dresses and skirts. They're also simple enough to slip on and off when going through the airport, so they check all of my travel boxes!
Promising review: "Love these shoes! I saw them in store at UO, but they didn't have my size. Obviously, I turned to Amazon because what doesn’t this site sell, and lo and behold, y’all had it. I try to pair these with almost every outfit because they’re so comfy and stylish! Recently went to Philly, where I had to walk everywhere because we didn't rent a car, and these were the only pair of shoes I brought (I travel light). These didn’t cramp up my feet at all as I walked over seven hours daily over the course of five days. Definitely recommend! But one thing hurts my heart...the creasing at the front of the shoe that comes with loving these shoes so much.😢" —Alli J
Get them from Amazon for $32.20+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in various colors/patterns).
4. Some versatile Chelsea boots with a slight heel and easy pull-on/off design so you stay comfortable without having to rely on sneakers every day.
Promising review: "I took these boots across three countries over 10 days as my only pair of shoes and they were not only comfortable and versatile but held up well to cobblestone and even a couple of afternoons of rain. I would definitely recommend and may even buy a second pair as a back up. Another thing I like about these for travel is they are easy to pull on and take off, since they have no laces or zipper." —Penny F.
Get them from Amazon for $55.86 (available sizes 6–11 and in six colors).
5. Square-toe Rothy's May Janes knit with the brand's supremely comfortable signature thread (which is spun from plastic bottles) that's freaking WASHABLE!!! The second they get ~funky,~ you can just pop out the cushy insoles and toss the shoes into the washing machine for a refresh.
They're also outfitted with the brand's In Love Insole which offers heel-to-toe cushioning.
Promising reviews: "I’m already contemplating my second pair. Bought them before my vacation and wore them everywhere; super comfortable and wore well with everything." —Valencia R.
Get them from Rothy's for $159 (available in women's sizes 5–13 and in six colors).
6. Some Birkenstock Bostons that've been gracing peoples' feet since 1979. If that's not a track record, idk what is.
Promising review: "I am a long-time Birkenstock fan. I have considered these clogs for a few years and finally sprung for them. The soft footbed was a new adventure, but based on the reviews, I gave them a try. Pure heaven! Soft, supportive, and totally dorky! If you are going to wear Birks, you have to decide to overlook the style issue and just stomp out there with pride. I actually had several people compliment them. I love them!" —Zappos Customer
Get them from Birkenstock or Zappos for $160 (available in women's sizes 4–4.5 to 12/12.5 and men's sizes 6/6.5–17/17.5, in regular/wide and medium/narrow widths, and in seven colors).
7. Or some lookalike suede clogs 👀 which go for only $40 if budget is a concern.
Promising review: "I love these! I was hoping they could compare for the Birkenstock brand, and I'm so glad they can! I debated whether to purchase these, but when they arrived, I was pleasantly surprised. They look and feel just like my Birkenstocks for a fraction of the price. I will definitely be buying them in the other colors. Their fit is accurate as well. I wear a size 10, and ordered a size 10. I have about 1/2 inch of the shoe behind my heel. I would say they are a perfect fit!" —Alicia Lewis
Get them from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–14 and in seven colors).
8. Allbirds Tree Runners should you be the type of person who says "It's only 25 minutes away?? We can totally walk there!" even if you forget you're spending time in the suburbs and not NYC.
Promising review: "I love my Allbirds. I had foot surgery on one foot three months ago. Just went on a week-long cruise and wore them every day. They were so comfortable. I want a pair in every color." —Diana G.
Get them from Amazon (available in sizes 5–11 and in eight colors) or Allbirds for $98 (available in sizes 5–11 and 14 colors).
9. Stylish waterproof leather boots that can handle everything from cobblestones to backwoods. The design offers sealed seams and Thinsulate insulation, so your tootsies will stay dry and warm no matter your destination.
Promising review: "Absolutely love these boots! I needed a pair of sturdy hiking boots that looked cute, would last a long time, were water resistant, and would wipe off easily after a muddy day. I wore these for roughly two miles of hiking and maybe two miles of walking to break them in before wearing them for a nine-mile hike in the Appalachians. I was so impressed with how comfortable they were, just the right amount of grip. They were warm, and they kept my feet dry and my ankles supported. 10/10 I would buy these again and will definitely be buying a second pair once the first pair is worn out." —Emma
Get them from Amazon for $63.17+ (available in sizes 5–11 and three colors).
10. Some Dansko Britney clogs which are SO durable and comfortable, one reviewer says they wore the same pair for 13 years!
BuzzFeed Shopping contributor Rachel Dunkel says:
"The level of comfort in every Dansko shoe is nearly incomprehensible. The insole is somewhat hard, but in a remarkably good way that almost massages the arches of my feet when I walk. It's a unique feeling that requires a little getting used to, but once I did, holy moly, it was an eye-opening experience of what shoes can be. I know that sounds dramatic, but I'm not alone — the cult-status of Danskos is real and well-deserved. If you've been struggling to find a shoe that fully supports your feet all day, give these a try. They definitely don't look like they'd be the most stable, but I never feel more sure-footed than when I'm in my Danskos. These are my newest Danskos at a year and a half old, but looking at the sole, leather, and sturdy buckle, you know they're just at the beginning of their long life. I've yet to try Dansko's original clogs, but am running out of excuses not to!"
Get them from Amazon for $89.90+ (available in sizes 4.5–12 and four colors).
11. Aussie-adored, beat-'em-into-the-ground Blundstones that'll still bounce back after countless romps through mud puddles, snowbanks, and even cow manure.
Promising review: "I first heard of Blundstone from a friend of mine when I was living abroad in Korea. Three years later, and I now own two pairs! These boots fit the needs for everyday purposes. Not only are they beautiful, but they are also equipped with a thick sole and a soft inside for the perfect comfort level. I have worn these traveling through airports for long periods of time and have never had an instance where my feet started to bother me. I would recommend these boots to anyone. Well worth the money!" —MN22
Get them from Amazon for $134.96+ (available in sizes 5–14 and in 18 colors).
12. Some faux-shearling Sorel boots with molded EVA footbeds and microfleece lining that'll make it feel like you're wearing slippers.
Promising review: "These boots are so comfy and warm! There’s no breaking-in period. They fit like high-top tennis shoes. I’m normally a size 6 but had to go with size 7. They are super cute!" —DealTracker
Get them from Amazon for $40+ (available in sizes 6–11 and six colors).
13. Super springy Hoka Clifton 9's which provide soft and even cushioning so your feet won't be any worse for wear even after a day of 20,000+ steps.
Promising reviews: "I searched 'good walking shoes' for my trip to Japan. Hokas were in many of the search finds. I'm glad I was able to try them and see if I liked them. I got the Clifton and Bondi styles. I used both for my trip to Japan, alternating both pairs for our seven-day trip. The Cliftons were much more comfortable. I use them for treadmill and outdoor runs and love them. I wasn't much a shoe wearer for anything but the gym but I do like using them for long travel, car rides, and being out for long hours." —Lani
Get them from Amazon for $204.99+ (available in sizes 6–11 and 18 designs) or Hoka for $145 (available in sizes 5–12 and 21 designs).
Want more? Check out a full review of Hoka sneakers here!
14. Cute and casual Sperry sneakers with a delightfully durable design that includes rustproof eyelets, an elastic back that won't be easily ruined when you kick them on and off, and a lightweight removable footbed that also offers excellent arch support.
Promising review: "I love my pair of shoes!!! Traveled a lot on them and have never experienced any sort of discomfort! Love them and would buy them again!" —Marielys Padua
Get them from Amazon for $42.49+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide sizes, and eight colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
15. Simple flats that are easy to slip on and off at the airport and take up next to no room in your bag so you can go ahead and pack that sweater that you def won't need on your Caribbean trip but... like... what if you do and then you regret not bringing it??
Those 48,000+ 5-star ratings don't lie!
Promising review: "I bought these for traveling as I wanted something comfortable and easy on/off for the airport. They totally exceeded my expectations! These flats are very comfortable. Fit is great. I have a wide foot and the wide width in my size was perfect. The snakeskin print looks very nice in person." —Allyson Cohan
Get them from Amazon for $20.09+ (available in sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and 22 styles).
16. Dr. Martens Chelseas which can not only keep up with daily wear for more than a decade (I attest to this!) but also add some serious edge to your silk midi skirt + sweater combo.
I am obsessed with Dr. Martens — thanks, in part, to four years at a Doc-lovin' liberal arts college. I own a shameful number of Chelseas, platforms, and 1460s — some of which I've retired but will never have the heart to part with. These boots last foreverrrrrrr. And the ones I don't wear anymore are still in perfectly good shape, they're just from phases I've grown out of (namely florals). My favorite ones I've been wearing for 10 years now and the soles and leather are still in incredible condition. Like all Docs, these require some break-in, but once that's over, they'll treat you well.
Promising review: "I work as a barista, so I'm on my feet a lot. I wore them out for the first time during my shifts, and there was no discomfort around my ankles, heels, or toes! I'm a true 9.5, so I order all my Docs in a size 9, and it fits perfect! Also, these shoes go great with everything and will give you a great confidence boost. Buy them! (:" —elizabeth v.
Get them from Dr. Martens for $210 (available in sizes 5–12 and in various colors and leather types).
17. Hunter Rain Boots made from 100% waterproof rubber, so you can splish and splash in every puddle you come across. The pull tab also makes them easy to pull on and off!
Promising review: "I love these and use them almost daily for walking my dogs around our yard. They are super comfortable and fit perfectly. They are really easy to get on and off. Seem to be constructed very well and I expect that they will last a long time. I chose these short boots rather than the tall because they are ideal for all seasons." —N. Weiss
Get them from Amazon for $69+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 29 styles). You can find the original tall style here!
18. Everlane Italian leather "glove" flats that've won over thousands of reviewers thanks to their buttery soft leather design, which eventually molds to the wearer's foot for a custom-like fit.
Plus, they even have tiny side vents to keep your feet from sweating during long walks!
Promising review: "These shoes are so comfortable, they can take me all through the work day, to dinner and running errands on the weekend! You don't really see the rubber sole, so they look more dressy. When I travel and need a more formal evening look but still need to walk, I attach jeweled shoe clips and tada! I have these in six colors and am on the waitlist for another color. These are that good!" —StyleAndComfort
Get them from Everlane for $95+ (originally $138; available in sizes 5–11 and eight colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
19. Lightweight New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainers because we're in an era where "mowing the lawn" dad shoes are trendy!!!
Promising review: "New Balance is my go-to brand. They fit well, and are comfortable to walk in. They're the one brand I can wear that truly fits my wide feet; they're sturdy, and hold up to constant wear. This particular pair is a double-winner — the expected high-quality product, and I got a huge discount for buying a 'used, like new' pair from Amazon. They're in mint condition, and were packaged well. Glad I went for the sale!" —Knitting Granma
Get them from Amazon for $53.97+ (available in sizes 5–12, including narrow and wide sizes, and three colors).
20. Converse Run Star Hikes with futuristic details like a two-tone exaggerated outsole, rounded heel, and chunky platform that'll lend you a few extra inches.
I have these in two colors and I love them!! The chunky sole gives you extra support and the jagged two-tone design not only looks cool, but offers added traction.
Promising review: "I wore these for my album release party where I had to load in gear and be on my feet all day. They are really supportive and comfortable. As a bonus, the high ankle makes my ankles feel so much more supported throughout the day." —Dorothy P.
Get them from Converse for $110 (available in sizes 4.5–14.5, four colors, or your own custom design).
21. Teva quilted slip-on shoes that are basically like a sleeping bag for your foot. The uppers are made from recycled ripstop and the heel collapses so you can also wear them as mules.
Promising review: "Need to quickly go outside? Use these. Camping? Perfect when you’re at camp and can just relax. I use both normal mode and with the back folded down, can’t say which one I prefer, depends on my task while wearing them. But they’re really comfortable and keep my feet warm but not too warm." —E. Cornett
Get them from Amazon for $34.95+ (available in sizes 4–14 and 24 colors).
22. Square-toe Vagabond booties with an angular chunky heel so comfortable and easy to walk in, you won't even miss your sneakers.
Promising review: "I am a huge fan of boots. I own pairs from Frye, Madewell, and Vagabond. So far, these are my favorite boots! I love the design. They are cool and easy to put on. The material is excellent. I wear these with jeans, dresses. I wear them to work, to go out on the weekends when I am trying to look cute. These boots are also affordable compared to similar style boots like Vince. If you are looking for versatile, comfortable, and high-quality boots, look no further." —Karango
"I bought these boots in late 2019 and since then I have worn them over 500 times, so they are very well loved. These boots are comfy, cute and they are very versatile. Vagabond leather is high quality and I have several pairs of shoes from there that have held up well over the years. As soon as my current pair of these boots are done, I’m going to order them again." —Maddycollier
Get them from Vagabond or Nordstrom for $200 (available in sizes 5–12).
23. Water-repellent, stain-resistant, ultra-flexible pointed Vivaia ballet flats that not only require zero break-in, but they get the stamp of approval from one BF writer who claims to be "allergic to ballet flats"!!! 😂
Here's what BF writer Emma Lord has to say:
"You probably recognize the brand name from a bajillion Instagram posts that are like 'I DANCED THE NIGHT AWAY IN THESE HEELS!!' for the heeled version of these, but damn if they aren't right. These didn't cut into the back of my heel at all, and felt comfy enough that I walked as easily as I would in my usual sneakers, if not easier since these are SO so lightweight. I took these on a recent trip to London where I was walking 20,000+ steps a day, and can confirm they hold up in rain (boy howdy did we get a lot of it). Plus, anytime muck got on them it was easy to scrub it off with soap and water. I'm so excited to have finally found a pair of flats comfortable enough to trek in that I am truly sitting on my HANDS trying not to buy them in every color."
Promising review: "Needed a pair of quality nice-looking shoes to go on my 2-week trip to Europe…I gave these a try and they did not disappoint! Walking 8-10 miles a day was a breeze. Comfortable, high quality, stylish, padded, waterproof, stretch to your foot to give it a perfect fit, and did I mention comfortable! Get them! You will not be disappointed!" —Me D.
Get them from Vivaia for $79+ (originally $97; available in sizes 5–11 and in 45 styles).
Check out the Instagram-famous Vivaia heels for more options!
24. Handwoven leather loafers you can slip on and off in a second. No more trying to find a quiet street corner so you can bend over to tie your shoe without interrupting the flow of sidewalk traffic.
Miuccia Studio is based in Indonesia and specializes in the *dreamiest* handmade shoes and bags.
Promising review: "Love love love these!! I’ve been looking for the perfect pair of mules for months. I’m so happy I ordered these. They go with everything and are super comfy. Shipping was right on time if not a little early." —Stacie Carlson
Get them from Miuccia Studio on Etsy for $76.50 (originally $90; available in European sizes 36–43 and six colors).
25. And patent leather or suede knee-high boots that are available in EIGHT DIFFERENT CALF WIDTHS if you've been struggling to find a pair that fit correctly for oh...idk...your whole life!!!
DuoBoots is a trailblazing women's footwear brand that started offering boots in different calf widths back in the 1970s.
Promising review: "It is quite liberating to find a company that actually sizes your boot properly from foot to knee. They are beautiful and made from soft leather. They also fit like a glove and are very comfortable." —Deborah S.
Get them from DuoBoots for $405 (available in sizes 5–12, calf widths 30–50 cms, petite, standard, and tall fits, and in three colors).
You with your new shoes: