Comfy shoes that don’t kick fashion to the curb

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I feel bad for the walking shoe. A running shoe can be a walking shoe, but a walking shoe can’t be a running shoe. Sticking up for the walking shoe, I argue that it has its distinguished features and no running shoe can take its place. 

Whenever I travel or traipse around Manhattan for a weekend, I do a lot of walking. And not only because I’m intimidated by foreign public transit systems, but because I’m bad at them and will end up not at my destination.

Over my last few forays in New York and travels abroad, I tested out a few walking shoes. I distinguish a walking and running shoe by its look (and function). A running shoe was built for running, and it looks like that. If you’re not running, and you’re wearing a running shoe, you look like a tourist. My abominable transit skills should let others know I’m a tourist, not my shoes. 

Here are five shoes that are comfy, easy to take on and off at airports and, best of all, don’t look horrible. Some of them are more stylish than others.

Why I love them: They are super unique-looking and so I’m not just another foot in Converse (though I love and live in Converse). They stay on my feet well, but I can easily slip them on and off with the ribbon pulls. This is useful for airport scans and overall laziness. Also, they make me an inch taller. 

Details to note: The shoes’ sides are lower than most runners, so socks may appear more than you bargained for. I wear the shoes with these no-show socks and everything is splendid.

Where to buy: Sorel (Women’s) | Sorel (Men’s – different in appearance)

Why I love them: They’re the most comfortable shoes; they’re made from eco-friendly materials like eucalyptus tree fibre, sugarcane and recycled plastic bottles, and they can be tossed into the washing machine when dirty (remember to remove the insole). Try them and tell me I’m wrong.

Details to note: I have the white ones and they’re no longer white, even after washing them multiple times. No regret, but I may consider getting a black pair next time.

Where to buy: Allbirds (Women’s) | Allbirds (Men’s)

Why I love them: ECCO does comfy things. These shoes are a bit on the more expensive end, but they’re leather and built to last. They have elastic lacing so they’re easy to pull on and slip off. They’re nice and lightweight.

Details to note: Considering they’re leather, you can’t just toss them in the wash. ECCO recommends a few affordable cleaning products (scroll down on the page).

Where to buy: ECCO (Women’s) | ECCO (Men’s)

Why I love them: They’re pillows. Supportive pillows. though. They’re stretchy so it’s easy to walk in, but they’re a supportive stretch so I can go the distance. They’re also washing machine friendly, just remember to take out the insole. I like to wear them with socks but they’re super comfortable without.

Details to note: They run a bit wide. 

Where to buy: Skechers , DWS (Women’s) | Skechers , Amazon (Men’s)

Why I love them: I haven’t tried these, but the other shoes are all pretty much over $100 and it’s nice to have a range of price options. The shoes have great reviews, most saying they’re comfy and true-to-size. Laura on Amazon said, “Light weight shoe but full of comfort. I take a 9 1/2 shoe and ordered a 10 but should have stuck with my typical size of 9 1/2. I’ll add an insole and it should be OK but I suggest ordering your regular size. Nice looking shoe as well.”

Details to note: You may want to wear a no-show sock with these slip-ons.

Where to buy: Amazon (Women’s) | There aren’t men’s versions, but these Feethit sneakers are also a well-reviewed option for $59.99

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