20 Best Women’s Slip-On Shoes for Long Flights and Longer Walks
For travelers without TSA PreCheck, wearing shoes that easily slide on and off makes navigating airport security checkpoints a tad more efficient. Let’s face it, we’ve all been the passenger with mere minutes to make it to the gate on time, and some footwear just isn’t meant for beating the clock (hiking boots, strappy sandals, most lace-ups). Beyond efficiency, those who have their hands full—traveling with kids comes to mind—or who face mobility challenges may also appreciate this type of travel-friendly shoe.
As a travel writer, I've faced this dilemma before, and have a few personal favorite pairs to share, but I've also asked fellow frequent fliers what women's slip-on shoes they can't live without. When possible, we lean toward sustainability as well as versatility for those tricky packing scenarios when there is simply no space for an extra pair of kicks in your carry-on.
Whether your priority is fashion, comfort, or function, here are 20 shoes that pair well with most any travel itinerary, starting with a few of my own go-to's. (For even more styles, check out our roundup of the best men's slip-on shoes.)
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Lale Arikoglu.
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Cole Haan Cloudfeel knotted Espadrille
When it comes to women's slip-on shoes, I love an espadrille, and the Cole Haan Cloudfeel checks all the boxes for me. The Angora leather is a cross between classy and casual with a neutral color, complementing a variety of different outfits. Many espadrilles don’t have much support in the footbed, so the comfort in this one surprised me and sustains for the entire day.
Rothy's The Driver
I didn’t know I liked loafers until I met Rothy’s Driver, which I might just declare my favorite shoe. My list of reasons for loving these is endless: 17 plastic bottles go into making the Driver; you can throw them in the washer and they come out like new; they can be worn all day, for any occasion; and the bold color options are even more stunning in person (Dragon Fruit is my go-to).
Allbirds Wool Runners
Loving the shoe's versatility and ease, Kristin Sluyk, a travel professional with The Decker Royal Agency, can’t say enough about the Wool Runners from Allbirds, which, while not technically a slip-on, are easy enough to take on and off (I'm a fan of them as well). As an Ayurvedic yoga teacher, she’s also keen on a sustainable product. “The shoes can be dressed up or down and are so flexible that they practically pack flat if needed.” Another perk: The sneakers are machine-washable.
Sanita Ellis clog
Clogs are having a moment. Sanita’s Ellis style emphasizes quality craftsmanship and comfort that will make you wonder how you rock a walking tour in almost two-inch heels. This is because your feet are being supported by a padded instep and microfiber insole. I wasn’t surprised to learn Sanita is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. (A note when buying: Half sizes should size up.)
OluKai Pehuea Lī ‘Ili leather sneaker
Champion free diver and native Hawaiian Kimi Werner may spend her days on the water with guests at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, but when her feet need respite she turns to OluKai. “I love the shoes and Olukai’s efforts to be earth-friendly,” says Werner, who grew up in Maui and loves the brand’s Ho’opio sandals. “But it’s the love, respect, and the way they give back to Hawaiian culture that makes me feel connected to the brand.” All of OluKai’s shoes are made with a drop-down heel, allowing for the entirety of its collection to slide on and off with ease and add more ankle support when you need it.
Koolaburra Koola Mini II
I often travel with my teenager who puts comfort and efficiency over everything. When I learned Ugg has a budget-friendly line called Koolaburra, I praised the shoe gods. The popular Ugg Classic Mini II, which is practically sold out or backordered in every size (and $150) has a twin in the Koola Mini II ($85). In my opinion, quality and fit are the same, the only difference seems to be that the Koola uses faux fur.
Nike Go FlyEase
Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, better known as JetSetSarah, travels at least twice a month as a journalist and can’t get enough of the Nike Go FlyEase shoe. “I can take them on and off without bending down,” Greaves-Gabbadon says. “They are perfect for the airport while being supportive and cushy enough for walking around all day.” The heel and sole of the shoe shifts open in a way that truly makes for a hands-free fit.
Kane Revive Active Recovery shoe
Kane is another brand committed to the planet and purposely made for tired feet. The aptly named Revive is an active recovery shoe made to help feet and leg muscles recover. Of course athletes love this shoe, but the comfort and breathability (and huge array of color options) also delight travelers (like me!) who spend hours on their feet exploring new cities.
Sabah
A longtime Traveler favorite, Sabah shoes are all handmade in Turkey (sabah means “morning” in Turkish) and are designed to mold to your feet, meaning they only get comfier over time. They're also incredibly durable and the leather gets softer and better looking with age. Choose from patterns and colors like zebra print, a soft camel shade, or this bold blue.
Gucci Princetown Loafer Mule
You can't get more timeless than a Gucci mule. Available in six colors (red, sand, and cream among them) and made from butter-soft Italian leather with the gold horsebit detailing the brand is known for, it's the ultimate plane-to-meeting-to-dinner shoe. (Which also helps if you're trying to pack light.) They do, however, run small, so make sure to order your pair half a size up.
Sabah Condesa Pink Baba
These cheery slip-ons' vibrant pink hue was inspired by the bold, colorful walls found throughout Mexico City. That inspiration was carried across the globe to Istanbul, where these beauties are handcrafted with the softest leather and finest materials.
Soludos Dali Espadrille Flat
Soludos makes the kind of espadrilles that immediately have you dreaming of a trip to Europe—no surprise, considering that the founder Nick Brown keeps returning to the continent, everywhere from Italy to Croatia, for inspiration. Made from durable canvas with jute-wrapped soles, they come in neutral colors like navy, grey, and white. The comfortable shoes also slip on and off easily, even after a long-haul flight.
Vans Slip-On
Once reserved for skaters, the iconic Vans slip-on has become ubiquitous among laid-back travelers. Made from sturdy canvas and that signature thick, rubber sole, the design has barely changed since the shoe's creation in the '70s—but now there are plenty more colors to choose from, including neon orange, blush pink, and deep navy.
Rockport Perpetua Perforated Loafer
Soul Naturalizer Kemper Slip-On Sneaker
With a memory foam insole and arch support, these wear-with-everything women's slip-ons are made for long days on your feet. Among the glowing reviews, you'll find plenty of reports of the all-day comfort these casual shoes give.
