Finding a sturdy pair of comfortable sneakers for traveling is no small feat. You have to find the (seemingly impossible) balance between comfort, style and versatility.
After spending years wearing sneakers that weren’t the most cutting edge, I was about to give up my search when I randomly wandered into an Allbirds store while on vacation in Austin. My feet were sore, sore, and blistered from walking up and down South Congress Avenue in my sleek but not-so-practical briefs, and I desperately needed comfort. Almost immediately after putting on the Allbirds Tree Runners I was hooked, so much so that I wore them every day for the rest of the trip. Fast forward several months later and they still haven’t let me down.
The ideal travel shoe should be comfortable enough to wear for hours without blistering, strong enough to keep feet pain-free, and light enough to carry in carry-on luggage without taking up too much space. The Tree Runners offer all of this and more. Not only are these sneakers light and stretchy enough to easily slip on and off while going through airport security, but they’re also as easy to wear as my favorite pair of Uggs (but much more functional and fashionable). ).
The shoes are true to size, too, and best of all, you won’t even need to break them in beforehand—just slip them on, tie the laces, and get started. They’re made with eucalyptus, which is known for its breathability and thermo-regulating properties, keeping your feet surprisingly cool. I would also be remiss if I did not mention the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The eucalyptus fiber is Forest Stewardship Council certified (meaning it comes from responsibly managed forests) and the laces are made from recycled plastic bottles. Additionally, the insole foam is made from castor oil, which has a lower carbon footprint than traditional petroleum-based foam, while the midsole is made from durable cane-based EVA. sugar.
Also, the midsoles make me feel like I’m walking on a real cloud. I also love the minimalist aesthetic of the shoes and the 14 beautiful color options, ranging from crisp white and baby blue to bright purple and burgundy. The classic colors pair well with almost any look, while the limited-edition varieties work well for those looking to add a pop of color to neutral outfits. Although I was a little nervous about buying a white pair, they’re so easy to clean it wasn’t an issue. Whenever I notice a stain, I remove the laces and throw the rest of the shoe in the washing machine before letting them air dry.
Even when walking around Austin in 85 degree weather, my feet stayed completely dry and odor free, even without socks (I’ve worn them both ways, although I tend to wear socks). I don’t wear them for intense exercise or for running – while they’re fantastic for walking and everyday, they don’t offer the ankle support – but other than that I rarely part with my goodies. -loved Allbirds Tree Runners. Instead, I find myself adding more pairs to my wardrobe.