WOMEN'S TRAVEL SHOES BUYING GUIDE
Your trip is around the corner; better get packing! All the essentials: toothbrush, extra socks, aeroplane magazines. What else? Don’t forget that crucial part of your travel kit: reliable shoes. How do you decide which pair(s) to bring?
We think the best women’s travel shoes are the ones you want to keep putting on every morning, day after day of your trip. But the exact shoes you should bring depends on the activities you’re most excited about. Do you dream of wandering through a tropical jungle? Pounding the pavement in a dense urban centre? Strolling around sprawling museums? Or maybe just kicking back on a sandy beach? The possibilities are endless.
So, which pair of travel shoes should you choose? Find the statement below that best describes you.
Walking Sandals
"I want comfortable, walkable sandals that let my feet breathe while still protecting my toes."
When the weather is warm and there’s a lot of ground to cover, we recommend the women’s Howser Harvest sandal. Inspired by our laid-back, indoor-outdoor the Howser slip-on, the Howser Harvest sandal runs with the idea of comfort, but it’s ready for action too. The sturdy sole and protective KEEN toe bumper will have you feeling surefooted on dirt paths or cobblestone streets. Plus, the feel-good cushioning means your feet will still be up for walking at the end of the day. As a bonus, this women’s walking sandal is made with upcycled materials that divert waste from landfills.
KEEN fans say:
“Very comfortable from the first day! Have worn in/out all day on errands, etc. I do need to wear orthotics in all my shoes, and although they show in the back of shoes, they are still a great fit!” — Anna
“My Howser Harvest sandals are very comfortable, supportive, and airy…and pretty cute too. Just what I wanted.” — Linda
Casual Walking Shoes
"I’m looking for a casual, comfortable lace-up shoe with plenty of traction for being out and about all day."
Check out the women’s NXIS EVO waterproof hiking shoe. This light, fast hiker offers a high level of traction and stability, so it’s an ideal travel shoe for hiking, sightseeing, or a combination of the two. Because no terrain is the same, the NXIS EVO is prepared for anything, from tarmac to footpath to scree slope. Wear them in the airport, wear them in the city, wear them in the middle of nowhere — wherever you go, your feet will be glad they’re along for the ride. They’re even waterproof in case of mud puddles and sudden downpours. The toe protection and famous comfort fit combine to keep your feet safe from annoying bumps and squeezes (because happy feet can go so much farther).
KEEN fans say:
“I have A LOT of KEEN hikers. These are the best by far, featuring the classic wide toe box, ultra-supportive footbed, perfectly perfect width, and good looks. I could wear these all day and night and walk cross-country and back.” — Anita
“I am so happy with these — wore them straight from the box and every day since. Found them true-to-size with good room in the toe box.” — Lynn
Another option is the women's Jasper suede sneaker. With a look inspired by climbing approach shoes, the Jasper is a durable, versatile shoe that can be the only pair you pack. The rope-like laces extend along the entire top of the shoe, so you can adjust the support to trek up a mountain (or hoof it to the nearest cafe). The suede upper holds up to scuffs and scrapes as you hop curbs and meander down sidewalks. And the cushy footbed feels good while you’re exploring ruins, cruising down the boulevard on a rented bike, or pausing to have an ice cream and look at your travel apps.
KEEN fans say:
“They're very comfortable and stylish, great for a walk or casual day out. The wide toe box is awesome too. These are my new favourite shoes.” — Kelly
“I am a long-time KEEN fan. I purchased Jaspers for an upcoming trip to India where I will be doing a lot of walking. I just received my Jaspers and started walking my dog to break them in before my trip. They require no break-in. They are comfortable right out of the box — they are great! Looking forward to many miles in my new Jaspers!” — Deb
Slip-On Clogs
“I want an easy clog to slide on and off — something super comfy that lets my feet know they’re on vacation.”
Some trips are all about trying to see as much as you can; others are all about getting comfortable with the view right in front of you. When it comes to travel shoes that pack light and have you breathing a sigh of relief, we love the women’s Shanti slip-on clogs. They’re a perfect après shoe to slip into after a full day in hiking boots or walking shoes. They’re also water-friendly and delightful for lounging near the ocean (or in a hot tub). The foam footbed has a subtle texture that treats your feet to a mini-massage. Plus, they keep your toes fully covered and protected (because here at KEEN, we don’t believe in stubbed toes).
KEEN fans say:
“I love the look of these: sleek, influenced by an eastern aesthetic, very lightweight, and an easy slip-on for dog-walking and beach-going.” — Mabby
"The Shanti is comfortable, durable, and easy to slip on and off. They have a nonslip sole which makes them much safer than other similar sandals." — Laura
Also try the women’s Yogui slip-on clogs. Like the Shanti, the Yogui pampers your feet with a roomy fit and a massaging footbed. They’re made of injection-moulded EVA that’s soft, cushiony, and super lightweight. They’re also water-friendly, so you can wear these at the river, in the shower, or at the hotel pool. And they keep your toes safely covered while still allowing air to circulate around your foot. Slip them on barefoot or with socks; either way, your feet will appreciate the TLC.
KEEN fans say:
“This shoe is amazing. It supports my feet quite nicely. Looking for lightweight, comfortable shoes to do just about anything, go anywhere? This is your shoe.” — Tadav33
“I have a high arch and these are perfect for me! Highly recommend for people with high arches.” — Mary S.
Everyone travels differently, and everyone has their own idea of what makes a perfect trip. That’s why KEEN offers a range of multipurpose sandals, slides, and trainers that take care of your feet while you’re taking in the scenery.
