9 Travel Heels You Can Actually Walk In
We know what you’re thinking: heels and travel just don’t mix. Well, think again. Now don’t get us wrong, we love a good sneaker as much as the next traveler. But sometimes, you need a little extra lift in your step. Which is why we’ve scoured the globe—and by globe, we mean internet—to find the nine best heels to channel your most glamorously jet-set (but also pain-free!) self. Read on to discover new heights in travel-friendly footwear.
Best Platform Espadrilles
Sam Edelman’s silver-tone Catherine Espadrilles are the perfect way to add some oomph to your vacation look. In addition to the on-trend metallic hue, the pair features braided leather vamps and lightweight jute soles that add height, but not clunk.
Best Mules
Call us lazy, but we are here for that no-lace lifestyle. The cushioned sole and stacked block heel on G.H. Bass & Co.'s Nikki Mule mean you can comfortably sightsee without having to rest your feet every 10 minutes. The leather and suede uppers and slightly pointed toe add a touch of cowgirl flair—just the thing to elevate your everyday jeans and tee.
Best Pumps
These sexy and versatile vintage-style pumps from New York-based M4D3 mold perfectly to your feet and come in a fantastic color range, from metallic gold to dusty pinky lavender. Their suede-covered block heels allow you to safely explore the ins-and-outs of your most recent travel destination—and the retro slip-on design will inevitably earn you lots of compliments along the way. Warning: Helen fans often end up buying more pairs in different colors.
Best Flatforms
A cross between a flat shoe and a platform, the flatform is the warm-weather footwear choice of cool girls everywhere. This pair by Vince comes in everyone's favorite neutral—blush—and has adjustable ankle straps for a comfy custom fit and platform soles that give you a boost without extra stress on your feet. Psst: they're currently on sale for more than $100 off.
RELATED: The Best Walking Sandals for Travel
Best Wedge Espadrilles
Looking for a shoe that channels all the best things about your breezy island vacation? Then look no further than these sky-high espadrilles from Soludos. Linen uppers and a rubber sole guarantee a lightweight feel, while the woven jute wedge provides optimal comfort and height. Plus, you can style extra-long ankle ties any way you want.
Best Booties
These mid-heel, faux-leather booties serve up comfort and style in equal measure. The wide ankle and block heel make for easy wear, and, should you go the route of the snakeskin, the pattern adds a fun twist to any outfit. Pair with a shift dress or wide-leg jeans to play up the mod vibe.
Best Clogs
When sourcing a list of the best travel-friendly heels, how could we not include a clog? Swedish Hasbeen's classic Mirja sandals feature a breathable criss-crossed front, a stabilizing ankle strap, and an impossibly light lime-tree wood heel (with rubber underneath for traction). Uppers made from untreated Italian leather may feel stiff right out of the box, but they soften with wear.
Best Loafers
Whether you’re shopping in Shibuya or hitting up every institution along New York's Museum Mile, Monki’s striped platform loafers are your go-to shoe. The menswear-inspired slip-ons have a glossy surface and a penny front. How would we wear them? Easy—with anything and everything.
RELATED: 9 Ballet Flats We’re Loving Right Now
Best Slings
If we handled the marketing for Barcelona-based brand About Arianne, we'd give these super-cute vegan sling-backs the tagline, "Pairs perfectly with jeans and slip dresses." (Because they do.) Everything about these cotton shoes are effortlessly awesome: they slip on for easy wear (no ankle strap to futz with) and have hexagonal heels that are easy to walk on—and look cool as hell.
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