The 9 Most Packable Shoes for Travel

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Incredibly comfortable, lightweight, and ultra-packable—3D knitted shoes are the newest must-have for travel. In addition to comfort, these shoes are sustainable, washable, and straight-up stylish. Here are our favorite pairs to pack for your next trip.

VIVAIA Evermore Sneakers

VIVAIA’s Evermore sneakers are the perfect little white shoe for summer. The all-white look gets a touch of color with a pink accent around the top of the sneaker for an extra bit of style. The knit sneakers are made from six recycled plastic bottles, and come in a package made from 100 percent recycled cardboard. Inside, an insole made from herbs adds cushioning and comfort while reducing odors.

Rothy’s The Point

Rothy’s The Point flats are our go-to wear on the plane shoe. The point silhouette gives jeans (or let’s be honest, stretchy plane pants) a touch of sophistication, and also work for dressed-up dinners at our destination. Made from a recycled water bottle thread, these 3D knitted flats have just the right amount of stress to deal with swollen feet from flying.

Post-trip, Rothy’s can be simply tossed in the washing machine to come out looking clean and new. The Points come in a beautiful array of colors in prints, including our favorite neutral blush pink, a fresh new deep teal, or a rose and purple double stitch. 

Cole Haan 2.Zerogrand Stitchlite Oxford

Cole Haan’s 2.Zerogrand Stitchlite Oxford have a stylish Oxford wingtip design with brogue details that make them look dressier than your standard sneaker. Don’t be fooled by the design though, as these knit shoes are built atop a traditional sneaker sole that offers plenty of arch support and traction. 

Weighing around 6 ounces per shoe, the Stitchlite Oxfords fold down to be nearly flat, and will fit into even the smallest carry-on.

SKECHERS Ultra Flex Harmonious

With a slip-on design and a sporty vibe, SKECHERS’ Ultra Flex Harmonious are perfect for power-walking through the airport when trying to catch your flight. The stretchy knit mesh upper is designed to be worn without socks (one less thing to pack), and combined with an air-cooled memory foam, keeps your feet from getting sweaty.

adidas Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe

Pack adidas Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoes for running and confidently wear them sightseeing too. The low-top design and wide range of cool colors mean the sneakers won’t look out of place with a nicer outfit, while the flexible, breathable knit upper and cushy midsole make these shoes comfortable for all-day wear. 

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Hoka Clifton 9 Knit Road Running Shoes

Looking for an incredibly lightweight (but still cushioned) running shoe? Look no further than the Hoka Clifton 9 Knit Road Running Shoes. The all-knit upper is supportive, yet flexible, and molds to your foot for a custom fit.

The sole features foam to cushion your feet from road runs and other hard surfaces and helps to prevent foot fatigue even after a long day.

Rothy’s The Lace Up 

For a stylish spin on the traditional sneaker, check out Rothy’s The Lace Up. These sustainable shoes have a knitted upper made from Rothy’s eco-friendly recycled yarn, as well as a footbed made from plant-based materials. A padded ankle collar helps cushion the back of your foot and prevent blisters (no break-in period is required for these shoes). 

Vessi Chelsea Boot

Boots are a versatile closet staple but are notoriously difficult to pack. These waterproof boots from Vessi have the classic Chelsea Boot look, but are made entirely from a flexible knit material that packs down easier than suede or leather. These shoes are hand wash only, which just makes them easier to clean up in the hotel sink with some travel laundry detergent after a long day of sightseeing.

Allbirds Tree Loungers

Allbirds Tree Loungers pair well with casual clothes and dressier attire, meaning you can pack less and still look your best. Made from eucalyptus tree fiber, these shoes are breathable and comfortable during hot summer days and long airport layovers.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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