Best Shoes to Wear on a Plane: Comfortable & TSA-Friendly
Published: 1 Sep 2025
Why Plane Shoes Matter More Than You Think
Planning your trip? Don’t forget your shoes.
Not the ones you pack—the ones you wear on the plane.
Uncomfortable or hard-to-remove shoes can slow you down at security, cause pain during long flights, or make you dread airport walks. And let’s be real: no one wants to take off lace-up boots in a TSA line.

The right airport shoes should be:
- Easy to slip on and off
- Supportive and breathable
- Comfortable for hours of wear
- Stylish enough to match your outfit
In this guide, you’ll find the best shoes to wear on a plane—from slip-on sneakers to comfortable travel flats. Whether you’re flying short or long haul, we’ve got you (and your feet) covered.
Let’s step into it.
1. What to Look for in Great Airplane Shoes
Not all shoes are built for flying.
Some are stylish but stiff. Others are soft but a pain at security. The best airplane shoes do more than look good—they work hard so you don’t have to think about them.
Here’s what to look for when choosing shoes to wear on a plane:
✅ Slip-On Design
Skip the laces. Slip-on sneakers, loafers, and clogs are easier at TSA and more convenient in tight airplane rows.
✅ Soft and Breathable Materials
Choose shoes made from mesh, knit, or natural fibers. These keep your feet cool and help prevent odor.
✅ Support and Cushioning
Good shoes feel like clouds. Look for memory foam insoles or rubber soles. Brands like Allbirds, HeyDude, and Hoka make comfortable travel shoes with great support.
✅ Stretch for Swelling
Feet swell in the air. A little give in your shoe goes a long way. Sock sneakers or stretchy slip-ons are great options.
✅ No Metal or Bulk
Avoid metal zippers or hardware that set off scanners. Also, skip heavy boots—they’ll just slow you down.
✅ Style + Versatility
Smart travelers pick shoes that go with everything. Think neutral loafers, white tennis sneakers, or black ballet flats that work from plane to dinner.

Real example:
A frequent flyer on Reddit said, “My go-to is a slip-on Skechers pair. I breeze through TSA, and they feel like slippers on long flights.”
Quick tip: Try your travel shoes at home before flying. Walk around, stand for a while, and see how they feel.
2. Best Types of Shoes to Wear on a Plane
Let’s talk picks. These are the top shoes to wear on a plane—comfortable, easy to remove, and stylish enough to match anything in your suitcase.

1. Slip-On Sneakers
These are a go-to for good reason. They’re lightweight, supportive, and require no laces. Great for airport security, long walks, and all-day wear.
Example: Allbirds Tree Runners or Skechers Go Walks.
2. Loafers
Want to look sharp without sacrificing comfort? Try loafers. Go for soft leather or backless versions to avoid stiffness. Break them in before your flight.
Style tip: Pair with relaxed trousers or a knit set.
3. Ballet Flats or Ballet Sneakers
These are sleek, compact, and easy to kick off mid-flight. Choose ones with a little stretch and padding for better comfort.
Look for: Foldable styles or flats with memory foam soles.
4. Clogs and Mules
Basically, elevated slippers. Easy to slide on and off, and perfect for quick bathroom trips or airport lounging.
Popular choice: Birkenstock Bostons (worn with socks for warmth).
5. Sock Sneakers
No laces, no pressure points. These shoes stretch with your feet—perfect for long flights where swelling happens.
Bonus: Most have thick, cushioned soles and a snug fit.
6. Sporty Sandals
Flying in summer? Go for sandals with straps and support—not flimsy flip-flops. They’re breathable, durable, and easy to wear through hot-weather destinations.
Top pick: Teva, Chaco, or other dad-style sandals.
7. Slides (With Socks)
The ultimate in chill. Slides are quick to remove, but wear them with socks so you’re not barefoot in security. Choose ones with arch support if you’ll walk a lot.
Best for: Short flights or warm destinations.
8. Platform Sneakers (Low-Top)
Add a little height without the hassle. Just avoid high-tops—extra laces slow you down at TSA.
Pro tip: Go for ones with cushioned insoles and minimal metal.
9. Chelsea Boots (Lightweight Only)
If you’re flying in winter or cooler weather, Chelsea boots are your friend. Choose soft, flexible styles with elastic sides.
Watch out: Avoid chunky or stiff leather styles—they’re heavy and hard to remove.
The right shoe depends on your travel plans, but these options all work for comfort, style, and security checks.
3. Real-Life Picks from Frequent Flyers
Sometimes the best advice comes from people who fly a lot. Frequent travelers know what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to airport shoes.
Here’s what they swear by:
🧳 Slip-On Skechers (Reddit Favorite)
“I wear Skechers slip-ons for every flight. They slide off at TSA and feel like pillows on my feet.”
– Reddit user, r/Travel
These shoes are light, cushioned, and perfect for long walks between gates. A great pick for anyone who wants comfortable shoes for flying without spending a fortune.
👟 Allbirds Tree Runners
“My Allbirds are my ride-or-die travel shoes. Super breathable and I’ve never had sore feet after wearing them on long flights.”
– Travel blogger
These eco-friendly sneakers are made with eucalyptus fiber. They’re soft, stretchy, and great for hot or cold destinations.
🥿 Rothy’s Ballet Flats
“I love my Rothy’s on short flights. They’re washable, stylish, and fold easily in my bag.”
– Frequent flyer, Instagram comment
These flats are flexible, breathable, and come in neutral colors that match almost anything.
👞 Birkenstock Clogs or Slides
“Birks are my go-to. I wear them with socks on flights and they double as my walking shoes at my destination.”
– Solo traveler, forum post
Supportive and easy to wear. Just make sure your pair has a soft footbed and secure straps.
🧦 HeyDude Slip-Ons
“So light it’s like wearing slippers—but they have actual grip. I pack these for every trip.”
– Nomad lifestyle YouTuber
These shoes are ultra-light, breathable, and easy to fold into your bag when needed.
Tip: Don’t wait until flight day to test your shoes. Walk around in them for a day first. Make sure they don’t rub, slip, or feel too tight.
4. Shoes to Avoid (and Why)
Not all shoes belong on a plane. Some look great but make flying miserable. Others can slow you down or even create problems at security.
Here’s what not to wear on a plane—and why:
❌ High Heels
They may look sharp, but they’re terrible for air travel.
- Hard to walk in
- Bad for circulation
- Unsafe in emergencies (they can damage the evacuation slide)
Better option: Low-profile loafers or platform sneakers with support.
❌ Heavy Lace-Up Boots
Boots take forever to unlace at TSA and often trigger metal detectors. They’re also bulky and uncomfortable to wear for hours.
Better option: Lightweight Chelsea boots with elastic sides or clogs.
❌ Flip-Flops or Slides Without Socks
Easy to slip off, yes—but zero support. Also, walking barefoot through TSA or airplane bathrooms? No thanks.
Better option: Wear slides with socks or go for sporty sandals with proper soles.
❌ Tight or Brand-New Shoes
Feet swell in flight. Tight shoes will pinch, rub, and cause blisters.
Better option: Break in your shoes before the trip or wear sock sneakers that stretch.
❌ Shoes with Metal Details
Metal zippers, studs, or even nails in the sole can set off security alarms. That means delays, extra checks, and frustration.
Better option: Choose TSA-friendly shoes with soft soles and no metal parts.
Remember, comfortable travel shoes should make your trip easier, not harder. Skip the fuss, and your feet will thank you.
5. How to Style Airport Shoes with Outfits
Looking good at the airport doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. The right airport shoes can pull your whole outfit together—if you pair them right.

Here’s how to style your travel shoes for both comfort and confidence:
👟 Slip-On Sneakers
- Style with: Joggers, a fitted tee, and a denim jacket
- Why it works: Clean, sporty, and perfect for long walks
- Best for: Casual travelers, parents, anyone flying economy or business
🥿 Ballet Flats or Foldable Flats
- Style with: Leggings, a long cardigan, and a scarf
- Why it works: Comfy and polished without trying too hard
- Best for: City trips, short flights, or stylish solo travelers
👞 Loafers
- Style with: Knit lounge sets or relaxed trousers with a blazer
- Why it works: Looks dressy but feels like slippers
- Best for: Business travel or anyone heading straight to a meeting
🩴 Slides (With Socks)
- Style with: Oversized hoodie and leggings or a matching airport set
- Why it works: Ultra-casual, but smart with socks for warmth and hygiene
- Best for: Short flights, warm destinations, quick security checks
🥾 Chelsea Boots (Lightweight)
- Style with: Black leggings, a long coat, and a crossbody bag
- Why it works: Chic and weather-friendly without too much weight
- Best for: Fall/winter travel or unpredictable weather
✈️ Pro Styling Tips:
- Pick neutral shoes like white, black, or beige—they match everything.
- Layer smart. Pair your shoes with comfy layers that are easy to remove or adjust.
- Skip belts or fussy outfits. Make getting through security as smooth as possible.
Example:
Going from Boston to Miami? Wear light layers and slip-on sneakers. Add a long-sleeve tee for the plane and pack sandals in your carry-on for arrival.
With the right outfit, your comfortable travel shoes will look intentional—not like an afterthought.
6. Travel Shoe Hacks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Great shoes make flying easier. But smart shoe hacks? They make you feel like a seasoned pro.
Here are real-world tricks travelers use to stay comfortable, save space, and move faster—from TSA lines to touchdown.
🎒 1. Wear Your Heaviest Shoes on the Plane
Packing boots or chunky sneakers? Wear them, don’t pack them. You’ll free up luggage space and stay within airline weight limits.
🧦 2. Pack Foldable Slippers or Flats
Keep a pair in your personal item. Switch into them mid-flight to give your feet a break, especially on long-haul flights.
👣 3. Slides + Socks = Genius Combo
It’s the quickest way through TSA, and your feet stay clean. Use this trick if you’re wearing sandals or anything open-backed.
👟 4. Use Shoe Bags (or Even Shower Caps)
Protect your clothes from dirt by wrapping your shoes before tossing them in your suitcase. Travel shoe bags or even disposable caps work well.
🧽 5. Choose Easy-to-Clean Shoes
Spills, airport grime, and weather happen. Shoes like Allbirds, Rothy’s, or Tree Skippers can be tossed in the wash or wiped down easily.
🧳 6. Bring Compression Socks for Long Flights
Feet swell. Ankles ache. Compression socks help reduce swelling and improve blood flow—especially if you’re wearing slip-on sneakers or flats.
🧼 7. Use Dryer Sheets in Your Shoes
Toss one inside each pair before you pack. Keeps your suitcase smelling fresh and your shoes from picking up weird smells.

These small steps make a big difference. Whether you’re hopping on a 1-hour flight or a 12-hour haul, the right shoe strategy keeps you comfortable and stress-free.
7. Pick by Season or Destination
Not every trip is the same—and your airport shoes shouldn’t be either. The weather, your destination, and even the airport itself can all impact what you should wear.
Here’s how to choose the best shoes for travel based on the season and where you’re headed:
🌞 Summer Travel
- Go for:
- Sporty sandals with straps
- Breathable slip-on sneakers
- Lightweight flats like Rothy’s or Allbirds Tree Breezers
- Sporty sandals with straps
- Why: Hot airports and sweaty feet don’t mix. These styles keep things cool, light, and clean.
❄️ Winter Travel
- Go for:
- Lightweight Chelsea boots
- Wool-lined sneakers like Allbirds Wool Runners
- Insulated clogs or mules (with socks!)
- Lightweight Chelsea boots
- Why: You want warmth without bulk. Look for easy-on styles you can still get off at TSA.
🌧️ Rainy Destinations
- Go for:
- Quick-dry slip-ons
- Water-resistant travel sneakers
- Rubber-soled loafers
- Quick-dry slip-ons
- Why: Wet feet are a fast way to ruin your day. These shoes keep you dry and moving.
🏖️ Beach or Island Trips
- Go for:
- Slides with arch support
- Sport sandals like Tevas or Chacos
- Neutral flip-flops (only if you pack backup shoes)
- Slides with arch support
- Why: You need airflow and quick changes. Just remember: flip-flops are terrible for TSA.
🌆 Urban Exploring
- Go for:
- White tennis sneakers
- Sock sneakers
- Supportive loafers
- White tennis sneakers
- Why: Cities mean lots of walking. You want comfortable travel shoes that don’t scream “tourist.”
✈️ Quick Tip: Departure vs. Arrival Weather
If you’re flying from cold to warm or vice versa:
- Layer smart with removable jackets or socks
- Pack a second pair of shoes in your carry-on if the climates clash
- Use versatile shoes that work in both places (e.g., Tree Runners or loafers)
Choosing the right shoes for your destination means you’ll be ready when you land—no matter the weather or terrain.
8. Extra Features That Make a Big Difference
You’ve got the style and comfort covered—but what about the extras?
Some travel shoes come with features that make flying even smoother. These aren’t always obvious, but once you try them, you won’t want to fly without them.
🧼 1. Machine-Washable Materials
Shoes get dirty fast—especially in airports. Brands like Allbirds and Rothy’s offer washable options so your shoes stay fresh, trip after trip.
🧦 2. Odor-Resistant Linings
Nobody wants smelly shoes mid-flight. Look for anti-microbial linings that keep your shoes (and bag) from getting funky.
Good to know: Many sock sneakers and slip-ons use natural fibers that fight odor.
🌱 3. Eco-Friendly Materials
Sustainability is a bonus. Many comfortable travel shoes now use recycled plastic, eucalyptus fiber, or sugarcane foam—better for your feet and the planet.
🎯 4. Arch Support & Memory Foam Insoles
Don’t settle for flat soles. Shoes with real arch support or memory foam cushioning help during long walks or flights.
Especially helpful for: Older travelers, long-haul flights, or anyone with foot pain.
🛫 5. TSA-Friendly Design
Metal-free soles, no zippers, and slip-on access mean faster security checks and less stress.
💼 6. Multi-Use Styling
The best shoes work for more than just the plane. Choose a neutral color and a simple design, and you’ll wear them again for dinner, city walks, or tours.
These little upgrades make a big difference when you’re walking miles, standing in lines, or trying to stay comfy at 35,000 feet.
9. Final Checklist Before You Pack
Before you zip up that suitcase, stop and ask: Are your plane shoes ready for takeoff?
Use this quick checklist to make sure your shoes won’t slow you down—or wreck your feet—on your next flight.
✅ Can you slip them on and off easily?
Skip the laces. TSA lines move fast. Your shoes should too.
✅ Are they lightweight and breathable?
Hot, sweaty feet mid-flight = miserable. Go for mesh, knit, or natural fabrics.
✅ Do they have enough support?
Look for memory foam soles, arch support, or cushioning that lasts all day.
✅ Will they be comfy if your feet swell?
Slight stretch or flexible materials help when your feet puff up in the air.
✅ Are they TSA-friendly (no metal, no fuss)?
Avoid shoes with zippers, studs, or thick soles that trigger scanners.
✅ Do they match more than one outfit?
Neutral colors like black, white, or beige keep packing simple and smart.
✅ Have you worn them before the trip?
Test them first. Don’t find out they hurt at 35,000 feet.
Pro tip: If your shoes tick all these boxes, you’re ready to fly—comfortably and confidently.
10. Conclusion: Comfort and Style Can Travel Together
You don’t have to choose between looking good and feeling good when you fly. The best shoes to wear on a plane give you both.
From slip-on sneakers to travel-friendly loafers, there’s a style out there that fits your trip, your outfit, and your feet. You just need to pick smart.
Think:
✔️ Easy on and off
✔️ Support where it counts
✔️ Styles that work from gate to destination
So next time you pack, don’t just throw on any pair. Choose comfortable travel shoes that make every step—through security, across terminals, or on the plane—feel easy.
Your feet deserve it. And so do you.
Want to help pick the perfect pair? Drop your favorite travel shoe brand in the comments. Let’s help more travelers step up their airport game.
11. FAQs About What Shoes To Wear On A Plane
The best shoes for long flights are slip-on sneakers, sock sneakers, or cushioned flats. They’re easy to remove, breathable, and offer enough support for hours of sitting or walking. Look for soft materials that adjust to swelling feet.
Yes. Flight safety experts strongly advise against synthetic leggings, high heels, or metal accessories. Synthetic fabrics can melt during a fire and cling to the skin. Heels or metal parts can damage evacuation slides and slow you down in emergencies bartonassociates.com+1reddit.com+2nypost.com+2. Stick to natural fabrics, slip-on flats, or trainers—safe and practical choices for any flight.
You can, but it’s not recommended. Flip-flops lack support and expose your feet to germs, while heels are hard to walk in and unsafe in emergencies. Choose comfortable, secure shoes instead.
Not always—recently, the TSA ended its “shoes-off” travel policy at U.S. airports, letting many passengers keep shoes on during screening vogue.comnypost.com+13tsa.gov+13bartonassociates.com+13. However, not all airports or security lines follow this yet, so it’s smart to wear TSA-friendly shoes—slip-on or easy-off styles—to be prepared for either scenario.
Most travelers do well with 2 to 3 pairs: one for the plane, one for walking, and one for going out. Make sure your airport shoes are versatile enough to double for day trips or casual outings.
Yes—always wear socks, even with slides or sandals. Airports and planes can be cold, and going barefoot through security is unhygienic. Compression socks are a smart upgrade for longer flights.
Usually, yes—unless you have TSA PreCheck. To save time, wear shoes that slip on and off easily, without buckles or thick soles. Avoid metal details that can trigger scanners.
TSA stands for the Transportation Security Administration. It’s the U.S. agency that handles airport screening and security. If your shoes have metal, are hard to remove, or slow you down, TSA might flag you for extra checks. That’s why TSA-friendly shoes—like slip-ons or metal-free sneakers—make flying faster and easier.

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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks