The BEST Travel Boots
In search of the best travel boots? Look no further! In this post, we’ve compiled a list of the best options on the market to help you find a pair of comfortable, supportive, and durable boots that can handle the demands of your travels.
Whether navigating city streets or tackling a dusty trail, the proper travel boots can make all the difference. Your travel boots should offer a comfy, supportive ride and never be uncomfortable or cumbersome. You’ll find the perfect boots to fit your needs with our guide. Whether you need a pair of travel boots for the trail, city, or both, you’ll find what you need here.
Best Travel Boots (That Are Comfortable Walking Boots!)
Blundstone BL550
Price: $229 | Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz | Material: Leather | Waterproof: No
Pros
- Excellent Quality
- Versatility
- Comfortable
- Decent Performance Hiking
- Durability
Cons
- Non-Technical Performance
- Slip-On Style
Blundstone’s Chelsea boots are a must-have in any traveler’s wardrobe and some of the most comfortable walking boots ever. Not only are they stylish and practical, but they also offer excellent comfort and support. The BL550 model, in particular, stands out with its sturdy tread, comfortable insoles, and supportive arch.
These boots are versatile enough to be worn in various settings, from formal events to climbing mountains, thanks to their beautiful leather, durable stitching, and solid soles. They are easily the most versatile boots we own, heck we even got married wearing Blundstones in the Faroe Islands.
The slip-on fit and pull tabs make them easy to put on and take off, and applying a leather treatment can help protect them and add water resistance. Among Blundstone’s classic boot designs, the 550 and 585 are virtually identical in appearance, with the main difference being the type of leather used in the upper – the 550 features full-grain leather. At the same time, the 585 has suede nubuck leather.
Blundstone BL550
Danner Mountain 600
Price: $210 | Weight: 2 lbs 5 oz | Material: Suede Leather | Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Style
- Leather Upper
- Comfort
- Vibram Soles
- Lightweight
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Narrow Footbeds
- Lacks Ventilation
If you need a sturdier boot for outdoor adventures, consider the Danner Mountain 600 Boot. They’re capable boots that are well-suited for hiking adventures. Danner has been manufacturing boots since 1932, including some for the U.S. Marine Corps, so you can trust their expertise.
The Mountain 600 is an excellent balance between performance and style, offering a rugged, waterproof boot that can handle any challenge but with a classic leather boot appearance. Not only are they capable in the mountains, but they feel appropriate in more casual settings.
This is great since they’re so comfortable. Thanks to its shock-absorbing midsole, it is suitable for outdoor adventures and city wear. Remember that the more durable construction may require a more extended break-in period, so it’s a good idea to wear them around the house before heading out on a trip. However, the Mountain 600 has faithfully served us on mountain trips worldwide.
Danner Mountain Boots
Women’s
Men’s
Merrell Moab
Price: $145 | Weight: 2 lb. 4 oz. Material: Leather & Goretex | Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Excellent Fit
- Super Comfortable
- Waterproof
- Great Value
Cons
- Durability
- Support
- UGLY!
Merrell is a trusted and reliable brand for producing comfortable and affordable hiking boots. The Merrell Moab III is an entry-level boot great for long-distance hikes and heavy loads at an affordable price. Intelligent choices with leather, textile, and synthetic materials provide superb performance and value.
These boots are waterproof and feature rugged Vibram soles for cushioning and traction on slippery surfaces. While they may not offer much support and may not be the most stylish option for urban wear, they are well-suited for hiking on easy-to-moderate trails. Besides the terrible style, they’re an excellent fit for most outdoor enthusiasts. Of course, affordability does require them to sacrifice performance and quality.
For those who need more support or plan to tackle more advanced terrain, it may be worth considering a sturdier hiking boot. The Moab is also available in a non-waterproof, vented version for added breathability. It’s the best beginner hiking boot we’ve ever tried, and they come with almost no break-in period.
Merrell Moab III
Women’s
Men’s
Red Wing
Price: $325 | Weight: 3lbs 12oz | Material: Leather | Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Style
- Durability
- Timeless
- Comfortable
- Quality
Cons
- Price
- Not Techincal
Red Wing is well-known for producing nearly indestructible boots that can last for decades. The Iron Ranger is their classic boot. The work boots are an excellent option for city travel due to their high-quality construction, fashionable design, and comfort. Thanks to their leather construction, these boots are both comfortable and durable, although it may be worth adding some waterproofing for extra protection.
The nitrile cork outsole provides support and a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for various activities, from sightseeing to errands. However, it’s important to note that Red Wing boots are expensive and not designed for performance in mountainous terrain. If you require a travel boot for hiking, consider other options on the market.
Red Wing Iron Ranger
Women’s
Men’s
Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX
Price: $165 | Weight: 1 lb 15 oz. | Material: Leather/ GoreTex | Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Ultralight
- Performance
- Flexible
- Great Value
- Comfortable
- GoreTex Liner
Cons
- Outdoor Focus
Salomon has been at the top of the hiking boot game for a long time. With exceptional quality, outstanding durability, and solid overall construction, it’s easy to see why. Consider these boots for travel if you’re after capable boots for hiking and adventure travel.
Weighing in at just under 1lb, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid hiking boots will have you walking longer and faster without even noticing. The mid-ankle design gives you great support. The improved lugs provide excellent grip and robust toe protection. Overall, these hiking boots for men and women are a fantastic option for hikers of all levels.
It’s a good boot for anyone looking to have a boot without sacrificing performance. This is a great hiking boot if you’re seeking a boot to move fast and run downhill with some ankle protection. We love these hiking boots for travel because they’re lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof. As a bonus, they have a lot of versatility after the trip.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
Women’s
Men’s
Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC
Price: $220 | Weight: N/A | Material: Wildhide Leather | Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Natural Footbed
- Style
- Quality
- Performance
- Foldable!
Cons
- No Footbed
- Wide Toe Bed
There’s a strong argument that many of the foot and joint issues that plague modern-day humans are from overdesigned shoes. Shoes cause our feet to move unnaturally and restrict natural muscle movements. The result is weak feet. Vivobarefoot crafts natural shoes designed with minimal support and allow the feet to move naturally. It’s like walking barefoot.
These new boots are naturally water-resistant. The non-slip sole and exceptional arch grip for gripping and sticking to surfaces are the most interesting. Inside the boot is an air mesh lining that allows for proper airflow. They are broad, thin, and flexible to promote the foot’s natural movement.
They’re fantastic for travel as they are lightweight (official weight not disclosed) and can fold! Yup, it’s an ankle-high boot that folds into itself and will take up minimal room in your luggage. Because there is no footbed in these shoes, they are not for everyone. We’re also uncertain about the coverage from the rugged Michelin sole that is not as widely tested as a brand like Vibram. Also, the wide toe bed for the natural movement of the toes stands out.
Vivobarefoot Tracker Esc
Women’s
Men’s
Clarks Chukka Boot
Price: $150 | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Suede Leather | Waterproof: No
Pros
- Comfort
- Style
- Decent Price
Cons
- Durability
- Zero Performance
The Clarks Desert Boot has become a fashion staple with its casual look. Comfort is pleasant in these shoes, and they’re perfect for walking around European cities in the fall or winter, as a pair of wool socks will keep your feet comfortable.
These are the best travel boots that remain affordable yet deliver a quality product. Desert Boots come in high-quality suede leather, which looks beautiful in person. Comfort is exceptional, and the slight heel distributes your weight nicely across your feet.
Be forewarned in regards to the crepe sole on these shoes. While the soles look great, they pick up dirt and offer almost no grip in wet conditions. I remember learning this the hard way after stepping on a wet tile and entering a building. Regardless still love the travel boots!
Bushacre 2 Chukka Boot
Women’s
Men’s
Hoka One One Kaha 2
Price: $240 | Weight: 2 lb. 3.8 oz. | Material: Leather | Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Excellent Comfort
- Stability
- Good Arch Support
- Traction
- Rockered Sole
Cons
- Outdoor Style
The Hoka One One Kaha hiking boots have your back if you love to hike, but your body and feet are sensitive to rough terrain. With extra plush soles and rockered bottoms, these boots will make you feel like you are walking on clouds as you glide along the trail.
While this maximalist approach may not be perfect for every hiker (the added padding can feel a little strange at first), it can give those with injuries or sensitivities the ability to get back out doing what they love most. However, that doesn’t mean that they skimp on the features.
These boots feature the Vibram MegaGrip sole, eVent waterproof sock liner, and leather uppers that keep you stylish, comfortable, and upright. The barely-there 1b 2oz overall weight doesn’t hurt either.
Hoka One One Kaha
Women’s
Men’s
Lowa Renegade GTX
Price: $245 | Weight: 2 lb. 7 oz. | Material: Nubuck Leather / Cordura nylon | Waterproof: Yes
Pros
- Lightweight
- Excellent Performance
- Comfortable
- Style
- Phenomenal Quality
Cons
- Clunky
- Outdoor Style
The Lowa Renegade GTX is popular for travel boots due to its versatility and durability. One of the main features that make these boots suitable for travel is the Gore-Tex lining, which provides waterproof protection and breathability to keep your feet comfortable and dry in various weather conditions. The boots also have a sturdy leather upper and a supportive, cushioned insole, making them suitable for prolonged walking or hiking.
Renegades are a boot ready to tackle the trail with excellent construction and support. These boots protect your feet and can handle hundreds of miles on the trail. They have a classic, rugged look that makes them a suitable choice for various travel situations.
They also come in multiple colors and styles, so you can choose a pair that best fits your style. Overall, the Lowa Renegade GTX is a reliable and fashionable choice for travel boots.
Lowa Renegade GTX
Women’s
Men’s
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II
Price: $79 | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Leather/Mesh | Waterproof: No
Pros
- Cheap!
- Not Bad Looks For Price
- Comfort
Cons
- Quality
- Performance
- Style
These Columbia boots are about practicality and comfort. The Newton Ridge Plus is a blend of leather and synthetic materials good for breathability and waterproofing. We consider them some of the best comfortable walking boots. What we love about these travel boots is the price for the level of performance.
Synthetic boots may not have a classic look, but they weigh less and have more flexibility than the more expensive leather boots. With a low price point, these boots are a clear winner.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II
Women’s
Men’s
Those Are Our Favorite Comfortable Travel Boots
There you go, everyone! We’ve gone over the most crucial boot topics to consider when prepping for travel and highlighted those topics in our list of the top 10 best travel boots.
Our list included boots for city-centric travelers, hiking trail hogs, or even those of you right in the middle. So, grab your boots, strap them on, and enjoy your trip!
What to look for in a pair of travel boots?
Support
A sad reality of traveling is that you won’t have room to bring several pairs of shoes and boots to fit every occasion. Whatever pair of boots you settle on, you’re bound to spend a lot of time in them and cover a fair number of miles. So, as you may have guessed, those boots must be comfortable and supportive!
Please pay special attention to the boots’ outsole and footbed material to gauge their comfort and durability. We are particularly fond of Vibram outsoles as they provide a nice comfortable ride, but they also hold up very well to wear and tear and allow the boots to last as long as possible.
Utility
Of course, your specific travel goals will also play a role in the type of travel boot that best suits your needs. Perhaps you’re planning on spending most of your days jetting from sight to sight in the big city. Maybe some time in galleries and museums, interspersed with street walking to find the best eateries and views. Or perhaps you have a certain penchant for remote mountain trails and exploring the great outdoors in every country you visit.
Whatever your preference, take the time to consider your future activities and pick a travel boot that will offer the highest level of utility in that department. A swish leather boot may not serve you well for rock scrambling, and a heavy-duty outdoorsman boot may raise a few eyebrows at your luxurious dinner after a day of exploring.
So, you get the idea, make your travel boot agree with your activities. Or better yet, opt for a boot that can be at home almost anywhere! Specifically, look for durable boots that offer good arch support, can be cleaned without hassle, and, more importantly, are waterproof and stylish.
Waterproofing
Regardless of your activity of choice, waterproofing is one essential characteristic we highly recommend for any travel boot. A stylish boot for city travel is not immune from the occasional rainfall, and there’s nothing worse than sloshing around town on your vacation with wet boots!
This is equally true if you’re out in the countryside, soaking up the views. So, take the time to ensure that your travel boot incorporates some waterproofing treatment. At the very least, treat the boots yourself with one of the many waterproofing agents you can purchase online or at a sporting goods store.
Style
There are dozens if not hundreds, of boots out there that can cover the three points described above. But the best travel boots accomplish that goal more by being presented stylishly and attractively. Boots that are as slick as they are sturdy and just as much at home in a high-end restaurant as they are exploring a national forest are the cream of the crop in the boot world. Therefore, the style is the fourth and final point we looked for while compiling our top choices for the best travel boot to provide you with a boot that will keep you looking good wherever you go!