As Cliff Clavin famously said in the series finale of the classic sitcom Cheers, the meaning of life just might be comfortable shoes. At least it certainly feels that way when you need relief from uncomfortable ones. Save the travelers in your life from footwear woes by giving them a gift that can provide comfort well into the new year: a new pair of travel shoes. Whether they like a little sparkle with everything they wear or are looking for practical sneakers, there’s something for everyone in this gift guide.
Hyper Arch Motion Sneakers
You can feel good about giving the travelers in your life Hyper Arch Motion sneakers for their next trip. These shoes are sturdy yet lightweight, so they feel good on and are easy to pack. Their upper is comfortable and breathable, which means they can expand if feet swell on long flights. Available in black, gray, blue, purple, pink, or white, these sneakers also have “Re-Memory Foam” insoles for optimal arch support. Shop Now: Hyper Arch Motion, $99.95 at the time of publication
Birkenstock Franca Vegan Footbed Sandal
Birkenstock has been making high-quality shoes for adventurers for centuries, and they keep changing and improving with the times. These modern, eye-catching footbed sandals are just right for vegan travelers to wear on flights or throughout a long, busy day exploring their favorite cities. These shoes are backless and easy to slip on, which is helpful when travelers must take their shoes off in the airport security line, and they have a comfortable, supportive footbed to help keep feet healthy and comfortable. Shop Now: Famous Footwear, $109.99
Kizik Women’s Madrid Eco Knit Sneakers
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Kizik’s bold knit sneakers are practical and fun at the same time. They are available in regular and wide sizing options, and they come in a wide variety of colors such as sage, clay, and pebble grey. These shoes are breathable and offer strong support for frequent travelers who are often on their feet. Also, you can feel good about buying them as a gift because they are eco-friendly; the knit upper is even made from recycled plastic bottles. Shop Now: Kizik, $99
Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Water Resistant Soft Ground Hiker
If you’re shopping for a traveler who loves to go hiking and exploring the great outdoors, his versatile pair of hiking shoes from Vivobarefoot will likely be a much-appreciated present. They help travelers keep their feet planted firmly on the ground even in uneven terrain, and they are also created to protect a hiker’s feet in most weather conditions. Shop Now: Vivobarefoot, $230
Betsey Johnson Aron Loafers
If there’s a business traveler on your list who always likes to finish their look with a little pizazz, Betsey Johnson’s oh-so-sparkly loafers will be a thoughtful gift. These shoes have a classic penny loafer silhouette, but the many rhinestones all over the exterior are a vibe of their own. They are comfortable, and they slip on and off easily which is convenient during all kinds of travel. Shop Now: Betsey Johnson, $99
Xero Shoes Dillon
Here are some shoes that allow your feet to feel free and move as they would naturally without the constraints of a heavy, stiff pair of shoes. Instead, these Xero lightweight shoes allow comfortably free movement during one’s travels, and they’re sturdy enough for everyday wear. The wide toe boxes give toes plenty of room, and the low soles help with optimal posture and balance. Shop Now: REI, $99.95
NAOT Calm Slippers
Sometimes a traveler just needs some slippers that are warm, fuzzy, and comforting after a long travel day. These slippers are the ideal choice for relaxing in a hotel room. They are lined with a cozy fleece and have a padded insole for extra support and softness. Shop Now: NAOT, $74.95
VIVAIA Square-Toe Mary-Jane
Here’s a pair of shoes that’s suitable for both business travel and a personal vacation. You can easily dress them up or down, and they’re available in a wide variety of colors. These Margot Mary-Jane shoes have an adjustable strap and a roomy, comfortable square toe. They’re also eco-friendly with a knit upper that’s made from recycled plastic bottles.
Credit: forbes.com