There are many ways to travel. There are those who see vacations as absolute relaxation, lying in the sun and never taking off their all-inclusive wristbands. And then there are those who prefer to feel the energy of their destination , wander its streets , and learn about its culture step by step.
If you've made it this far, we assume you're one of the latter. And if you're going to be spending hours walking, you need to know how to choose travel shoes without your feet suffering. Keep reading and we'll tell you everything you need to know to make the right choice for your next getaway.
What should a sneaker have for comfortable travel?
Let's say there are three key things that measure the comfort of a shoe when we travel: the cushioning, the upper, and the sole.
Cushioning is one of the most important aspects. We might think that the thicker the sole, the more comfortable the shoe, but nothing could be further from the truth. Thickness isn't always synonymous with good cushioning. What's truly important is that it incorporates technologies designed to absorb the impact of walking, especially if we're going to spend hours walking around streets, museums, or airports .
The cushioning should also adapt to your gait, as a pronated gait is not the same as a supinated or neutral one. Understanding these differences is key when it comes to long walks, especially if you want to avoid strain or discomfort from prolonged foot strike.
The upper often raises more questions . It's a part that frequently goes unnoticed because we tend to be swayed by appearances . However, when it comes to the shoe's upper, the material and breathability are key factors. A lightweight upper that allows the foot to breathe will make all the difference on long journeys or in destinations with high temperatures.
Finally, the sole should facilitate the natural transition of the gait, that "rolling" of the foot that makes walking more fluid. When this happens, the load on ankles and knees is reduced, which is essential if you're going to be covering many miles during your trip.
Recommended models for travel
With all that said, it's time to get practical. We've selected several models that work really well when the plan is to walk for hours without sacrificing style. These are shoes designed to accompany you through airports, on endless routes through the city center, or on getaways where you don't want to worry about your feet.
Below, we've listed some options that combine comfort, stability, and design so you can choose the one that best suits you and your travel style.
New Balance 2002R Protection Pack Rain Cloud
The Protection Pack Rain Cloud shoes are a well-balanced option for traveling without sacrificing comfort. Their midsole with cushioning technology helps absorb impact on long walks, crucial when you're spending hours exploring a city. Furthermore, their structure provides heel stability and good support, which is appreciated on uneven surfaces. The "Protection Pack" finish adds that urban touch, allowing you to wear them for sightseeing or going out to dinner without needing to change your shoes.
Within the brand's catalog, different lines coexist with different technical approaches, something that is clearly appreciated when better understanding the New Balance models and their particularities in terms of cushioning and stability.
Puma MagMax Nitro 2 New Gray
The The Puma MagMax Nitro 2 New Gray are a great option if cushioning is a priority for your travels. They incorporate impact-absorbing technology, which is especially appreciated when you're spending hours walking through streets and airports. Their lightweight design promotes a smoother, more comfortable stride, while the fit keeps your foot securely supported. Plus, their gray color scheme makes them easy to coordinate with any outfit during your trip.
ASICS Gel-NYC Mineral Beige
The ASICS Gel-NYC Mineral Beige are a great option for trips where you'll be walking for hours. They incorporate GEL technology that helps absorb impact with every step, reducing fatigue as the day gets longer. Their design combines stability and comfort, key for long walks around town . Plus, their neutral color scheme makes them easy to pair with any travel outfit.
ASICS GT-2160 Black Pure Silver
The The ASICS GT-2160 Black Pure Silver are a very reliable option if you're looking for stability throughout your trip. Their design is intended to offer good support and a controlled stride, something you'll appreciate when you spend many hours walking. They incorporate cushioning that helps reduce the impact with each step, maintaining comfort even at the end of the day. Furthermore, their black and silver color combination makes them easy to pair with any getaway outfit.
Nike Calm 001 Slide Light Smoke Gray
And because it can't all be hiking and excursions, if your trip also includes moments to disconnect near the sea or the pool, you need something lighter. The Nike Calm 001 Slide Light Smoke Grey are perfect for those plans where comfort is key without sacrificing style. Their minimalist design and ergonomic structure offer relief to your feet after long walks, while their neutral grey finish easily complements any summer look . A practical option to fill your suitcase without any hassle.
How to choose according to your destination and type of trip
Getting lost in the streets of a European capital is not the same as taking a rural getaway or spending several days near the beach. The destination dictates the pace, and your choice of sneakers should adapt to that.
If you're going to be walking around town for hours, prioritize models with good cushioning and stability. For more relaxed trips, combining short walks with rest breaks, you can opt for more versatile and lightweight options. And if your plan includes warm weather, pay special attention to breathability and materials that don't trap heat.
Ultimately, choosing shoes for a trip isn't just about looks. It's about finding a model that suits your travel style, your pace, and the distance you'll be covering. If you choose the right pair, your feet will thank you from the first day to the last.
You can discover and purchase all the models we've featured in this article at Newcop. In addition to our online store, always available for you to place your order whenever you like , you can also take advantage of your trip to visit us in person.
We're in Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, and Dubai, where you can see the styles up close, try them on, and choose the one that suits you best. If you're ever in one of these cities, come and visit us. We look forward to seeing you.
