From Terminal to Trail: The Footwear That Masters Modern Travel

When it comes to travel, footwear isn’t just about comfort—it’s your silent co-pilot, carrying you from airport lounges to alleyway cafés, from sun-bleached ruins to walks that end up being a mile longer than you planned. In the overflowing landscape of travel gear, the right pair of shoes blurs the line between performance and style, urban exploration and off-grid adventure. Simply put, when you’re on the move, the right travel shoes can make or break your trip. 

We’ve pulled together what we think is some of the most interesting footwear out there right now. We’re talking pairs that blend form and function, with materials that can handle the rough stuff but still look sharp for that spontaneous fancy dinner or cocktail. Think form-meets-function silhouettes, materials born from tech labs and artisan workshops alike, and soles engineered for long-haul living. Whether you’re packing light, planning hard, or winging it entirely, these options will introduce you to those rare finds that punch above their weight. Every great journey starts from the ground up—and your feet deserve the best.

LUCA Drift Outdoor Mule (US$125)

The LUCA Drift Outdoor Mule delivers effortless indoor/outdoor versatility, with smart-casual styling and top-notch craftsmanship. Made by hand in Portugal, the mule combines an Italian full-grain leather upper with removable cork insoles and a springy crepe rubber outsole. The wide toe box will have your toes sighing in comfort, while the lined design can be worn without socks. So whether you’re kicking back in your accommodation, heading for evening drinks, or enjoying lunch out, this mule steps easily between a range of travel environments.

Lems Primal Eco (US$130)

The Lems Primal Eco is a barefoot shoe built with a zero-drop platform to help correct posture and promote a mid-foot strike. The wide toe box offers plenty of space for your toes, while the cork insole helps keep you cool and comfy. The shoe’s upper features up to 50% recycled materials, with mesh paneling boosting ventilation. But arguably the most useful travel-friendly feature is the proprietary IBR outsole that is both lightweight and flexible, allowing the shoe to pack up small when luggage space is at a premium.

Bedrock Sandals Cairn Evo 3D PRO Sandals (US$140)

An adventure sandal that’s ready for outdoor pursuits and urban exploration alike? Bedrock Sandals took up the challenge and created the Cairn Evo 3D PRO, a tough, grippy, and versatile sandal that can take you from trail hikes to boat trips and city pavements with ease. The sandal’s G-hook-and-loop heel strap system provides a secure fit, while the improved 3D footbed features zero-drop anatomical molding and a refined toe-triangle for better support. The Vibram® Megagrip rubber outsole offers trusty grip too, so you can head out confidently across diverse terrains.

Lems Trail Blazer Shoe (US$145)

Want a tough trail shoe with a zero-drop design and ample space for your toes to spread? Check out the Lems Trail Blazer Shoe. The shoe is a wide-fit spin on the Lems Trailhead, providing extra space without sacrificing support. The Trail Traction Outsole features recessed grooves and singular lugs for dependable traction, while the microfiber and air mesh upper offers breathable, moisture-wicking comfort. Versatile for everything from hikes to everyday runs, this is a handy addition to your travel packing list if you’re seeking outdoor performance and comfort in one.

norda 008 Slide (US$145)

The trail running footwear experts at norda know that recovery is vital after intense trail runs. So they designed the 008 as a premium recovery slide to keep feet happy both before and after runs. However, there’s no reason not to enjoy the footwear’s benefits on your travels too, giving your feet some TLC on trips. The slides feature a dual-density foam construction, with denser foam and arch support in the footbed and midsole for comfort, durability, and protection. The foot strap uses a softer foam for comfort and fit. And last but not least, the custom Vibram® ECOSTEP soleplate uses recycled materials and provides great traction and durability compared to conventional recovery slides. As an added bonus, the footwear also comes with a packable tote, so you can stash the slides (or other items) separately from the rest of your gear.

Bedrock Sandals Mountain Clog (US$160)

Bike rides, hikes, trips to the local cafe…the Bedrock Sandals Mountain Clog happily takes it all in stride. The multifunctional clog packs a wide range of features into its comfy design, including a durable suede upper, cushioned midsole, and grippy Vibram® Megagrip outsole. The zero-drop design helps support natural movement and the adjustable strap system lets you tailor the shoe to your ideal fit. The clog also features a climbing rubber toe cap for added protection against scrapes, whether you’re exploring the outdoors or venturing in urban settings.

LUCA Leather and Suede Runner (US$195)

Seeking a comfy everyday sneaker that steps things up on the style front? The LUCA Leather and Suede Runner keeps your feet comfy all day long while adding a dash of elevated style with its Italian leather and suede upper. Handcrafted in Portugal, the sneaker has a cushioned and responsive EVA foam midsole, a removable cushioned insole, and a Vibram outsole. Great for airport treks and laid-back sightseeing alike, this handsome sneaker moves easily between everyday and travel use, helping you get the most out of your gear.

LUCA Suede Terra Low Sneaker (US$195)

Having a shoe you can dress up or down makes a big difference in keeping packing to a minimum. Enter the LUCA Suede Terra Low Sneaker, which pairs expert craftsmanship with stylish design and everyday comfort. The shoe is handmade in Portugal using Italian full-grain leather and suede, with springy Lactae Hevea rubber soles. A cushioned Italian leather insole and anti-slip Italian leather lining add to the refined comfort. So whether you’re walking for miles or getting spruced up for a night out, this handsome shoe will work hard in your travel wardrobe.

norda 005 (US$325)

Yes, the norda 005 is expensive. No, it doesn’t apologize for that. This isn’t your everyday trail trainer—it’s a purpose-built machine, engineered with one mission: to be the fastest, lightest, most stable trail running shoe ever made. Every detail is dialed for race day, and it shows.

At the heart of the 005 is an Arnitel® midsole, a high-performance platform designed for max energy return without compromising stability. It’s snappy, responsive, and feels alive underfoot. The upper? That’s where things get wild. norda paired open mesh Bio-Dyneema®—yes, the ultra-lightweight, ultra-tough fiber known more for sailing and space tech—with recycled materials for a breathable, drainable shell that won’t quit. The result is a featherweight build that still takes a beating.

Slide your foot in, and the microsuede tongue molds to your shape, cutting down on hot spots and heat buildup. The proprietary fit lock system keeps your foot locked in through switchbacks and descents, while an updated heel collar with bigger pods improves lockdown and comfort—and helps keep trail debris where it belongs: outside.

Underneath it all is a single-piece Vibram® Megagrip Elite soleplate—the grippiest, lightest compound Vibram has ever developed, and this shoe is its global debut. Race-tested, mud-approved. All of this tech, all of this performance, weighs just 214 grams. That’s carry-on territory. That’s pack-it-and-forget-it until it’s time to fly.

The norda 005 isn’t built for everyone. But it really is the very best of footwear technology.