These shoes are made for walking; or trekking; or paddling; or just loafing. Whatever you get up to on your travels, you need footwear that’s tailored to your task.
In this set of gear reviews, we test a range of shoes that are certain to help you find your feet on the road, from heavy-duty hiking boots that can take on the elements to slim sandals perfect for sun-baked shores.
For everyday travel (formal): Ridgemont Outback II shoes
Ridgemont Outbacks are the ideal companion for travellers who need a comfortable everyday shoe that still retain a hint of formalwear. The waxed leather boots are versatile both in terms of style and function; they’ll stand up to a day meandering through Sarawak’s national parks while still looking smart enough to not draw stares on a night out in Singapore.
Other features include waxed cotton padding around the ankle, metal eyelets for the laces and a thick padded insole. The outsoles have a grippy rubber base and white side stripes to keep you on trend – although depending on your adventures they might not stay white for long.
Plus points: stylish, sturdy, multipurpose
Worth noting: The Ridgemont range is unisex and available in various colours, plus a version especially for motorcyclists
Cost: GBP135, US$135.00
Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 8/10
More info: ridgemontoutfitters.com
For everyday travel (casual): Vans UltraRange trainers
Perennially hip American skate brand Vans have stepped into the world of travel footwear with their UltraRange, designed for those who ‘embrace a life of exploration’. The first thing to note is the trainers are gloriously comfortable, with an internal sock-fit construction that means you can slip them on barefoot after a morning at the beach and spend the afternoon exploring a city without fear of blisters.
They’re also light and breathable with a mesh upper, and while the shoes aren’t quite as sleek in design as the brand’s more traditional ranges, these are more practical, versatile and – thanks to a selection of bold colours – travel companions aren’t going to struggle to spot you in a crowd.
Plus points: breathable trainers that look cool
Worth noting: the UltraRange is unisex, with a wide range of colours available
Cost: GBP75, US$80, €100
Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 8/10
More info: vans.com
For serious trekking: AKU Alterra GTX boots
If your journey takes you into the mountains you need boots to protect against rough landscapes and bad weather. Step forward the heavy-duty Alterra GTX trekking boots from AKU. The outer sole has a chunky tread with cleats that face backward for grip and protrude slightly to improve traction over a wider surface area, while the insole’s shock-absorbing layer impressively cushions feet through the whole stride.
On top, the boots’ uppers are made from fabric and suede, and the elasticated tongue avoids chafing and provides additional support around the ankle – ideal on uneven ground. Further protection comes from a thick rubber strip across the toes to fend against stubbing, and a Goretex lining to help keep out water should the elements take a turn for the worse.
Plus points: available in male/female fits and various colours
Worth noting: ideal for treks but not mountaineering (eg with crampons)
Cost: GBP199, US$250, €250 approx
Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 8/10; value 8/10
More info: aku.it
For splashing about: Keen Newport Hydro sandals
Whether you’re paddling in the shallows or rafting down mighty rapids, the Newport Hydro sandals protect your feet during any aquatic activity. A long-term traveller favourite, they’re comfortable to wear and bridge the tricky water-land gap with more elegance than most amphibious footwear on the market.
Originally invented by Keen in the early 2000s, this version of the Newport has triathlon-style elasticated laces and a quick-dry lining made from a material called Cleansport NXT to combat bacteria and the unpleasant odours often found in damp shoes – a definite plus on long journeys.
Plus points: toes are enclosed to protect against bumps on dry land or riverbeds
Worth noting: a wide range of colours available
Cost: US$100, €99, GBP79
Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 8/10
More info: keenfootwear.com
For day hikes: Asolo Greenwood GV boots
Asolo’s Greenwood hiking boots are perfect for exploring hills and trails. In testing, we found them immediately impressive, thanks to their relatively low weight and generous padding with ankle cuffs cut low at the back.
The medium-depth tread is enough for hiking without being too heavy or aggressive, while the sole has just the right amount of flex so feet don’t feel restricted (as they might in more sturdy trekking boots) or unbalanced (as they might in trainers), while waterproof Goretex linings help when trails get boggy.
Plus points: available in a wide range of sizes and two widths
Worth noting: we tested the female version; male versions also available
Cost: €237, GBP190, US$250 approx
Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 8/10
More info: asolo.com
For lounging around: Mammut Sloper Flop
Call them sandals, jandals, flip-flops or thongs – a pair of Sloper Flops from outdoor gear manufacturer Mammut is just the ticket when you and your feet need to relax, whether it’s at base camp after a trek or on the beach after breakfast.
Features include grippy rubber outsole, comfortable suede-like fabric insole and a small instep support, plus straps with colourful canvas on the outside and ventilated padding on the inside. They’re slim and light too, so they can slide easily into your backpack.
Plus points: fabric on the insole and under the strap ventilates and wicks away sweat
Worth noting: well suited to relaxation but not so good for active pursuits
Cost: GBP40, €49
Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 8/10; value 7/10
More info: mammut.com
For tackling the trails: North Face Flight RKT
With overseas marathons one of the travel trends of 2018, a trusted pair of running shoes are rivalling beach sandals as an essential second set of travel togs. The Flight RKT trail shoes from North Face are great for those who intertwine travel and trail racing, being well-suited to the world’s warmer climes.
The shoes, which were developed in tandem with ultrarunner Rob Krar, are feather-light, provide exceptional cushioned support and could double as trainers for a day of sightseeing. Our tester liked the breathability of the footwear, but noted the mesh fabric could prove problematic in cold, wet climes.
Plus points: These best-in-class shoes will shave time off your PB
Worth noting: Perform exceptionally on roads and well-groomed ground, though would likely struggle on slippery or rocky terrain
Cost: GB115, $150
Rating: quality 10/10; practicality 7/10; value 7/10
More info: northface.com
More travel gear reviews:
How we review products
Our opinions are by definition subjective. Our testers (male, female, young, old) trial products in the real world, then give their honest opinion and scores for quality, practicality and value: 5/10 = mediocre; 6/10 = fair; 7/10 = good; 8/10 = very good; 9/10 = excellent; 10/10 = perfect. We don’t include anything that scores less than 5/10.
We aim for gender balance, and over a year cover an equal number of male- and female-specific items. We state where kit is available in male and female versions, or for everyone, unless it’s obvious.
Prices are quoted in at least one major currency. Where possible we include other currencies. We take prices from manufacturers’ websites; information was correct at the time of publication, but you may find different prices online or in specialist stores, particularly after a period of time when products are discounted.
Manufacturers supply Lonely Planet with test products for review. We do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
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