Thousands of online shoppers claim these shoes are the “best” for travelling. Photo / Provided
Few things ruin a day of travel than a gnarled blister in a pair of shoes.
Charming towns or delightful walking tours can turn into pure agony as your feet rub and rub.
So it’s no surprise that travelers who have found a great pair of travel shoes are quick to share it.
Thanks to the power of the internet, one of these shoes seems to be making waves on Amazon. Best of all, they’re only $30.
The Tiosebon slip-on sneakers have received over 19,000 positive reviews from Amazon buyers who describe them as the “best walking shoes ever”.
The secret seems to be in the mesh; a material that makes shoes easy to slip on and off (a blessing to airport security), skin-friendly, and breathable on hot, sweaty days.
A cushioned memory foam insole also provides arch support for long days on your feet, making it popular with teachers and nurses.
Many reviewers said the shoe is perfect for travel as well.
“I was looking for stylish slip-on sneakers [shoes] it would allow me to do day hikes in Europe, and these shoes feel like walking on a cloud,” wrote one user.
During a two-week trip to Israel, a traveler said at least 10 women in her tour group asked where they could buy the shoes.
A third person said the brand became their “favorite walking shoe” after wearing them on a trip to Disney.
The low price may court cynicism however, many reviewers said the shoes were better than more expensive alternatives.
“This is the first pair of shoes I’ve found, including high end shoes, that hold up and my feet don’t hurt at the end of the day,” wrote one reviewer, who walks 11-13 km to work each day.
Kiwi buyers will need to consider global shipping costs, but even then the price will be under $60.
Prices for All Birds’ “everyday sneakers” (another favorite among travelers) start at around $170.
However, as with everything, you will get what you pay for.
Since Tiosebon shoes are made from man-made materials like nylon and polyurethane and use an elastic mesh to hold your foot in place, they are not ideal in cold or wet weather and can wear and tear further. quickly than top quality shoes.
Things to Consider When Buying Travel Shoes
Versatility
Why pack five pairs of shoes when you can only pack two? Instead of having walking shoes, city sneakers, running/hiking sneakers, nice dinner boots, etc., consider buying a shoe that can serve two (or more) purposes.
Materials
Whether your shoe is quick to dry or slow to get smelly, soft to wear or difficult to machine wash, all depends on its composition. The material will also indicate its durability and reaction to certain weather conditions.
What do you do
Sturdy, waterproof boots might be great for a hike but not so practical for walking around a city. Likewise, if you take your shoes off often (in airports or around beaches), a laceless option may be perfect.
Where you go
If your destination is cold and rainy, you will need very different footwear than on a hot tropical island. Check the general climate and weather during your stay and consider what qualities your feet will need.