What are the best backpacking shoes?
March 21, 2025
From city-hopping staycations to travelling abroad, your backpacking footwear can make or break your experience. You'll want to find something sturdy and breathable for long periods of walking, yet stylish and versatile enough to suit different outfits and occasions.
Whether you’re an experienced traveller or first-time backpacker, this guide will help you find the best hiking boots, sandals and shoes for your adventure.
Best sandals for backpacking
Sandals are a great addition to your backpack. They are light and compact so can fit in easily, plus they give you an extra footwear option on your travels. Here are some of our top picks:
Free Spirit Frisco Womens Beige Easy Fasten Sandal
Part of the Free Spirit collection at shoezone, these stylish women's beige sandals will pair with a variety of outfits while still keeping you comfortable.
The multi-layer cushioning supports your feet and offers joint protection and the TPR outsole provides non-slip traction for added safety. They also have easy fasten straps for quick and hassle-free fitting.
Osaga Vista Mens Brown Easy Fasten Sandall
With their timeless design, supportive sole and thick grip, these Osaga sports sandal are a great alternative to traditional backpacking footwear. The open-toe style is ideal for warmer weather, while the touch fasten straps keep your feet secure on long walks.
You can pair the sandals with shorts or trousers as the neutral brown colouring suits a variety of outfits. The leather material also ensures the shoe is extra durable.
Skechers Go Walk Flex Womens Black Toe Post Sandal
You can't beat a lightweight pair of flip-flops for hanging around the campsite or strolling along the beach - and these women's Go Walk Flex flip flops by Skechers offer just that.
The sleek and sporty design means you can throw them in your bag when you need an extra footwear option. They have a Goga Mat insole for ultimate comfort and are machine washable so you can easily clean them. Pair them with shorts, skirts or swimwear – a completely versatile backpacking shoe for your trip.
Best hiking boots & shoes for backpacking
Any backpacking adventure is sure to involve lots of walking, so it’s important to bring a good pair of boots with you. Below we’ve rounded up some of the best hiking boots for backpackers.
Urban Territory Hank Mens Brown Hiker Boot
Looking for hiking boots which are lightweight, comfortable and durable? You’re in luck as these Urban Territory hiker boots are just for you.
The boots have a durable outsole that is gripped to help keep you steady on your feet, along with a padded ankle collar for comfort. When you're working up a sweat on long or uphill hikes, the mesh material allows for a breathable fit.
Skechers Outdoor Escape Plan Womens Navy Shoe
Hiking shoes don’t just have to be practical – they can be stylish too. That’s why the Skechers walking shoes are one of our favourite backpacking shoes.
They come in a fashionable blue and navy combo, so you’ll look just as good as you feel when out on the trails. The sturdy build is perfect for securing feet in place and preventing any slips and trips.
Don’t forget, it’s best to break in your shoes before you head off on your backpacking adventure – nobody wants blisters on a long walk!
Skechers Slip Ins Dynamite AT Mens Navy Trainer
If you’re not a fan of mid-height hiking boots, the Skechers trainers is a great alternative.
Lightweight and breathable, these sporty hiking shoes include a thick grip sole and memory foam footbed for ultimate comfort.
Whether you’re exploring a new city or hiking up a mountain, these sturdy shoes are sure to keep your feet dry and protected. For advice on how to look after your walking shoes, check out our useful hiking shoes guide.
Best shoes for backpacking
From comfy slip-ons to lightweight trainers, there’s a variety of backpacking shoes to choose from. Deciding which pair to take depends on the type of trip you are planning. So, which ones are the best shoes for your backpacking needs?
Free Spirit Cleveland Womens Navy Easy Fasten Shoe
The Cleveland navy leather shoe – designed by Free Spirit – combines style and comfort for everyday wear. These shoes have an easy fasten strap, multi-layer cushioning, a breathable insole and a non-slip outsole.
The rounded toe ensures your feet aren’t squished when walking, while the light and flexible design makes them easy to wear and even easier to fit in your backpack. You can wear the shoes with shorts and trousers or dress them up with a nice skirt.
Skechers Arch Fit 2.0 Mens Navy Vegan Trainer
Trainers are a great option for backpacking shoes, as they are extremely versatile. You can wear them on hikes through nature or when exploring a city.
The Skechers Arch Fit 2.0 trainers work with a range of looks and can easily be worn day or night. The lace up fastening makes them ideal for walking as they keep your feet secure and the podiatrist designed shape offers extra support. Plus, they have an air-cooled memory foam insole, will reduce shock and increase weight dispersion!
Skechers Summits Top Player Womens Navy Trainer
Add some style to your backpacking footwear with these stylish Skechers women's trainers. They are perfect for any summer adventure and look super flattering with denim jeans, shorts, or dresses.
These Skechers trainers are designed with a memory foam insole for comfort, a slip on design for easy wear, and a gripped outsole for stability. Plus, they are machine washable so you can keep them fresher fof longer.
Go ahead and give yourself the gift of all-day comfort with these women's trainers.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.