Hillary Maglin is an associate editor and writer who's been covering travel products since 2018. Before that, she spent three years as a news, entertainment, and lifestyle writer. She has been published in Travel + Leisure, People, InStyle, and more.
Hillary covers travel, luggage, comfortable shoes, stylish travel apparel, beauty, and lifestyle products. She has written hundreds of product roundups for Travel + Leisure, People, Instyle, Real Simple, and Rachael Ray In Season. Prior to joining T+L, she was a freelance writer covering current events, pop culture, fashion, and celebrities.
Experience: Hillary Maglin joined Dotdash Meredith in 2018. She started her career as an editorial intern for Rachael Ray In Season before becoming an assistant editor and then associate editor, covering products and shopping for Travel + Leisure, People, InStyle, and more. While at Travel + Leisure, she also worked on the brand's Webby Award-nominated social media team.
Before finding her niche in product writing, Hillary spent some time on the news and entertainment side of journalism, reporting live on television and covering events like the Tribeca Film Festival, New York Fashion Week, award shows, music festivals, movie premieres, and more.
Whether you're wearing them to run through the airport, do some sightseeing on foot, or hit the gym, a comfortable pair of sneakers is a must-have travel essential. One of our favorite styles for travel is a classic and convenient pair of slip-on sneakers. We talked to Dr. Jacqueline Sutera of City Podiatry in New York City, and she gave us all the info you'll need to find the perfect comfy slip-on sneakers for your next trip.
"Slip-on sneakers are like the best of both worlds," Sutera says. "They are cushioned, lightweight, and easy to take on and off."
From cozy wool options to cool, cushioned kicks, these are the best women's slip-on sneakers to consider for your travels.
These are the best slip-on sneakers for women.
Also available at Dr. Scholl's Shoes
Why We Love It: They're ultra-comfy, yet stylish enough to wear anywhere — plus, they travel well.
What to Consider: They may cause your feet to overheat.
These cute slip-on sneakers by Dr. Scholl's are insanely comfortable. They're designed with a memory foam footbed for added support and a thick rubber sole that provides excellent traction. According to Sutera, the comfiest shoes include a deep-seated heel cup, arch support, and cushioning, and the Madisons check off every box. Plus, the padded collar provides a more comfortable feel while the flexible side panels allow you to slip them on easily, even hands-free. These also come in a variety of color and style options, so you can choose from bold camo, leopard prints, or more neutral variations like black, olive, or faux leather.
To top it off, our testers felt they were extremely versatile. "They're flexible enough to dress up or down depending on where you're going," our tester for this pair says. So whether you wear them to sightsee or to impress at brunch, they're sure to comfortably complete your look.
Sizes: 5 to 11 (wide available) | Material: Microsuede, faux leather or fabric, vulcanized rubber
Why We Love It: They're unbelievably comfy…
What to Consider: …after they've been broken in.
Vans' Classic Slip-on Sneakers have been popular for more than 50 years, and it's easy to see why. They look just as good when worn with casual jeans and leggings as they do with skirts and dresses; that versatility means you can cut down on the number of shoes you'll have to pack for a trip. Featuring elastic side panels for added comfort and easy slip-on, a sturdy textile upper and lining, and rubber sole, these kicks will last through years of wear and tear.
While our testers say the shoes feel like they're made for travel, they do suggest breaking them in before wearing them on your next trip. "I would recommend a broken-in pair for travel, one hundred percent," Travel + Leisure Associate Digital Editor Jamie Aranoff says. She loves that they're lightweight and easy to pack, as well as versatile in terms of outfit pairing. But wait to use them for trips until they are broken in, she says. The sneakers fit true to size, they are sold in unisex sizes, so be sure to check the Vans size guide to find the right fit.
Sizes: 5–14.5 (Women's), 3.5–13 (Men's) | Material: Canvas, rubber
Why We Love It: They keep your feet warm in winter weather but cooled off in hotter temperatures.
What to Consider: They don't have as much arch support as other options on our list.
Frequent fliers love to travel in comfortable sneakers from Allbirds, and the Wool Loungers are one of the brand's most popular styles. Not only are they lightweight, breathable, and super comfortable, but they're made with ZQ merino wool, which has temperature-regulating capabilities, so these will keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Merino wool is also naturally odor resistant, so you can walk hundreds of miles in them without worry of bringing odor into your bag when you pack them. Perhaps the best part is that they're machine washable, which is highly convenient for keeping them fresh and clean for years to come.
Beyond their comfy, lightweight feel, our testers love the Wool Loungers' temperature-perfecting qualities. "They're very comfortable for all-day movement and won't make your feet overheat… and I was impressed at how warm my feet were walking around in 40-degree weather!" our tester commented.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Merino wool
Related: The Best Water Shoes for Women
Why We Love It: They're comfortable right out of the box and won't cause blisters.
What to Consider: Although they're cushioned, they are a bit stiff.
Ugg is known for producing comfortable, high-quality shoes, and these slip-on sneakers are no different. The travel-ready shoes have an ultra-cushioned footbed and a terry-cloth lining that is super soft on your feet. The cotton upper is breathable so your feet won't overheat, and the durable sole provides excellent traction on all types of terrains. The crepe rubber outsole adds major flexibility, so these shoes will stay comfy even after hours on your feet.
And while they're on the stiff side, our testers rave about the fact that Ugg's Bren Slip-ons don't rub the way other shoes do. "I didn't get blisters, [and] every new pair of shoes gives me blisters," our editor noted. "I expected these Uggs to do some damage because they felt hard, but my feet didn't experience any changes at all."
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Material: Cotton, canvas, rubber
Why We Love It: The perforation allows for airflow and keeps your feet from getting sweaty.
What to Consider: They will likely have to be replaced after a few seasons of wear.
These sleek slip-ons by Ilse Jacobsen boast a fashion-forward design thanks to the scalloped perforations on the upper, which also work to wick away sweat and keep your feet cool. Speaking of the upper, it's comfortable for all-day wear, while a flexible rubber sole offers excellent mobility in every situation.
Though they are quite stylish and packed with features, our testers are most impressed by how good the shoes feel on their feet. "They're well cushioned and comfortable for a lot of walking, yet they are more adaptable to different outfits and occasions than tennis shoes," one tester commented. "They're also super lightweight, so they wouldn't weigh down your suitcase." She also notes that the sweat-wicking perforation feature works best when you're on the go, since there's more airflow.
Keep in mind the shoes do run small, so the brand suggests you order the next size up from your normal size.
Sizes: 6 to 12 | Material: Synthetic, leather, rubber
Why We Love It: They're comfy enough to buy in several of the 83 available colors.
What to Consider: The sizing is inconsistent between styles.
If you prefer the ease of backless sneakers, check out this pair by Easy Spirit. The sporty kicks feature an insole that's made extra comfortable by shock-absorbing cushioning. The outsole boasts ultra-flexible rubber with ridges, adding outstanding traction and making the shoes an excellent option on all types of terrain, from airport terminals to national parks. The upper is constructed with a rounded toe, while a soft, padded collar ensures comfort from the moment you slide your foot inside.
And if you ask our editors, they'd agree this pair is one of the comfiest, most practical options on our list. "I love that I was able to get a perfect fit, since the manufacturer offers narrow and wide options for each size," said our editor. "Also, if you wear orthotics, you can remove the shoe's insert and replace with your own orthotic." She does suggest wearing them with socks, though, to prevent your feet from sweating.
Sizes: 5 to 12 Wide | Material: Leather, rubber
Related: The Best Waterproof Walking Shoes for Women
Why We Love It: They mold to the shape of the wearer's feet, so they'll always feel personalized for you.
What to Consider: They may pinch and rub your heels until they're broken in.
"Accommodate the forefoot with materials made of soft, forgiving leather," Dr. Sutera says. "Shoes that are not made of a forgiving material and are not the proper width will compress and squeeze the forefoot." This pair by Naturalizer is the perfect comfy leather pick for a more elevated look. The non-slip outsole adds stability to the sophisticated sneaker, while the elastic side panels make them easy to take on and off. Other features that make these the ideal choice for comfort are a luxe terry lining, removable footbed, and Contour+ technology, which uses foam cushioning that sculpts and conforms to the unique shape of your foot. The sneakers even include a hidden, 1-inch heel for a subtle added lift.
Our testers found even more details to love. "I love the sleek look, perforated details, neutral color, cushioning, thick sole, and easy slip-on style," Associate Editorial Director of Travel Commerce Susan Brickell. "The luxe leather exterior makes them easy to dress up or down, but since they have a sportier feel, I paired them with cute jumpsuits, as well as with blouses and denim. They look much more expensive than they are."
Sizes: 4 to 12 Wide | Material: Suede, leather
Also available at Steve Madden
Why We Love It: They're dressy enough for work but casual and comfy enough to walk the dog.
What to Consider: They're not made for wider feet.
These Steve Madden slip-ons have a 1.25-inch platform that will give you the perfect amount of lift while still being a breeze to walk in. Along with a padded collar that won't cause blisters, the sneakers also boast a lightly cushioned insole and a durable rubber sole. And don't worry about slipping when you've got these on — the outsole offers stellar traction and durability.
"These were truly comfortable right out of the box," Jamie Hergenrader, Editorial Director of commerce content at Travel + Leisure says. "No breaking in, no rubbing, no pain. I also like the style. They pair well with jeans or an even more casual look with leggings. The first time I put them on, I needed to use my hands to guide them onto my feet, but after a couple more wears, I was able to slip them on hands-free." Our testers did say the shoes got a little hot but added that it wasn't a deal breaker.
Sizes: 5 to 14 | Material: Suede, Leather, Rubber | Color Options: 36
Why We Love It: They have ample cushioning and supportive arches.
What to Consider: They're on the pricier side.
Splurging on a pair of sneakers may seem excessive, but these luxe Vince sneakers are well worth the higher price point. Besides the gorgeous style that you'll want to show off from the plane to the city streets and everywhere in between, these shoes also feature a soft and supple lining and a comfortable insole. Your feet will also remain blister-free thanks to elastic insets that won't rub or chafe.
And according to our testers, the comfy-yet-stylish Vince Blairs are worth the price tag. "I love these shoes for the airport," T+L's luxury and experiences editor Maya Kachroo-Levine says. "They're the perfect Sky Club shoes, ideal for a chic lounge moment but also easy to slip off when going through security. But also, they are perfect for a long day of walking, which you wouldn't necessarily expect from the more elevated slip-on sneakers." Order the sneakers in black or white for a crisp and classic look, or try out a beige- or pink-hued version of the shoes.
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Material: Calfskin, leather, rubber
Related: The Best Walking Shoes for Travel
Why We Love It: They're super supportive and have a removable sole so you can customize your pair.
What to Consider: They have tight toe boxes that may cause blisters before broken in.
According to Sutera, most people benefit from shoes with extra arch support. "Some shoes have this raised padding on the insoles inside the shoe, which helps elevate and neutralize the inside of the mid foot," she says. "This is important because if the arch is abnormally flat, many problems can occur or be made worse, such as bunions, hammertoes, tendinitis, fasciitis, or back, hip, and knee pain." That said, consider checking out these Ecco slip-on sneakers. The plush cushioned footbed provides comfort and stability, while the woven design adds a cool high-fashion twist. The shock-absorbing sole makes long days of standing or walking a breeze, and they're likely to hold up for years. But more than anything else, you'll love how supportive they are and how soft the supple leather is against your feet.
If extra arch support isn't for you, feel free to switch things up in the name of comfort like our testers. "While it took a week to really break them in, I realized the inlay sole was designed to be removable for a more customized fit," Brickell says. "That did the trick! Once I removed the sole, they were much more comfortable and a better fit." Our testers recommend pairing the shoes with sundresses or your favorite denim.
Sizes: 4-4.5 to 12-12.5 | Material: Leather, Rubber | Color Options: 6
Why We Love It: They're water repellant.
What to Consider: They can feel very tight and at first.
These L.L.Bean slip-on sneakers have a lugged outsole that provides excellent traction, making them a great option to wear on hikes and other outdoor excursions. The elastic goring keeps your feet from slipping out when walking, while the rubber toe bumper prevents you from stubbing your toes on even the rockiest terrains. One of the most interesting features, however, is the shoes' stretchy collar, which hugs the ankle and keeps debris out.
The shoes certainly impress in the durability department, but our editors say it's the shoes' design that stands out most. Our testers loved that the shoes are made for hiking but are more attractive than other sneakers or hiking boots: The stylish kicks are suede but still meant to repel water. They also appreciated the color options, which add a fun element to super functional shoes. Our testers added that the shoes can be a bit tight at first, but they quickly loosen up and fit perfectly.
Sizes: 6 to 11 | Material: Suede, leather, rubber
Why We Love It: They expertly take on rain, light snow, and chilly temperatures.
What to Consider: They're best for shoppers with wider feet.
These Olukai slip-on sneakers are fully lined with shearling to keep your feet warm and cozy, and they are also waterproof if weather takes a turn while you're out exploring. The sneakers provide all-day arch support, plus they have collapsible backs, allowing you to customize how you wear them. Because they're lined with soft, fluffy shearling, you'll never need to wear socks with them. In fact, they're so comfy, you may want to buy two pairs: one for traveling, and one to use at home in place of slippers.
Though they provide plenty of warmth in cooler weather, they work well during the spring and summer months, too. "I have worn these shoes to work, walking the dog, running errands and on our spring break vacation," our product tester says. "They were easy to pack and extremely comfortable to drive six hours to Virginia Beach. All in all, great fit, and I love the arch." Our testers' only issue with the shoes is that they run a bit narrow.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Leather, rubber, shearling
Rothy's The Sneaker: These stylish shoes feature ample arch support and soft, stretchy fabric, but our testers felt the ankle rubbing was bad enough to keep them off our list. They can be comfy, but you'll have to wear a Band-aid on the back of your ankle until they're broken in.
Sanuk Pair O Dice Sneaker: Our testersloved how cute and lightweight these are, but disliked their lack of arch support or ventilation. They'd likely be fine to wear to lunch or the pool, but we'd advise against long walks in them.
Adidas Ultimafusion Sneakers: These shoes are ultra-stylish and great for packing, but our testers say the laceless knit style was surprisingly uncomfortable. If you buy these, wear them with over-the-ankle socks — otherwise they'll rub your skin raw.
To accurately review these slip-on sneakers, we purchased 15 pairs for our staff members to try out personally. Over several weeks, they tested them on various terrains and in both warm and cooler temperatures to experience the shoes the same way travelers would. Additionally, our team members wore their slip-ons for several hours at a time each day of the test, so you can rest assured that these sneakers will be nice and comfortable.
While there are plenty of slip-on shoes on the market, not all of them are made for walking (or traveling, for that matter). When searching for the perfect pair of slip-on sneakers, it's important to look for options with cushioned insoles, a snug fit, and sufficient shock absorption. Otherwise, you can expect blisters, arch pain, and a desire to get home and change into something comfier ASAP. "In general, it is best to skip over shoes with thin, flat insoles and outer soles," Sutera says. "Wearing shoes with more structure and support is not only more comfortable but healthier overall."
The softer the material, the better. Look for shoes that incorporate leather, suede, and shearling into the upper and lining, and rubber into the outsole. Knit and woven materials can offer comfort too, but typically only if other high quality fabrics are used as well. If you're prone to sweating, go for a breathable material like nubuck, canvas, or even a cotton or mesh blend. Mesh is also ideal for travel because it can accommodate any swelling that may happen during flights, says Sutera.
When it comes to slip-on shoes, sleek and snug is always best. You may be tempted to try something trendy and backless, and while backless shoes don't guarantee discomfort, you'll want to make sure they stay on your feet while walking before you commit to them. Consider also choosing something with a visibly flexible outsole, like the Ilse Jacobsen pick — it'll feel less restrictive as you move.
For this article, Hillary Maglin researched dozens of shoes to find the most stylish and comfortable options available and also interviewed a podiatrist to find out what actually makes a shoe comfortable. Then, we put 15 pairs to the test, sending them out to T+L editors for real-world insights. After several weeks of testing, the author collected detailed insights to ensure each pick in this roundup made the cut for comfort.
Up Next: The Best Hiking Shoes and Boots of 2022
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Hillary Maglin is an associate editor and writer who's been covering travel products since 2018. Before that, she spent three years as a news, entertainment, and lifestyle writer. She has been published in Travel + Leisure, People, InStyle, and more.
Hillary covers travel, luggage, comfortable shoes, stylish travel apparel, beauty, and lifestyle products. She has written hundreds of product roundups for Travel + Leisure, People, Instyle, Real Simple, and Rachael Ray In Season. Prior to joining T+L, she was a freelance writer covering current events, pop culture, fashion, and celebrities.
Experience: Hillary Maglin joined Dotdash Meredith in 2018. She started her career as an editorial intern for Rachael Ray In Season before becoming an assistant editor and then associate editor, covering products and shopping for Travel + Leisure, People, InStyle, and more. While at Travel + Leisure, she also worked on the brand's Webby Award-nominated social media team.
Before finding her niche in product writing, Hillary spent some time on the news and entertainment side of journalism, reporting live on television and covering events like the Tribeca Film Festival, New York Fashion Week, award shows, music festivals, movie premieres, and more.
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