Including styles that “reduce stress” on wide feet and plantar fasciitis
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/peo-podiatrist-approved-travel-sneakers-tout-265354bb9d1d4bb2b278e5aea324d6f6.jpg "Three types of sneakers displayed on a blue background showcasing different designs for comfortable travel wear")
Podiatrist-Recommended Sneakers at Amazon
- Recommended for “Long Days of Sightseeing”: Brooks Ariel GTS 24 Running and Walking Shoes, from $104 (orig. $160)
- Under-$45 Find: New Balance DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 Cross Trainers, from $43 with coupon (orig. $75)
- Breathable, Podiatrist-Worn Brand: Olukai Pehuea Li Lace-Up Sneakers, $100
- Thick, Cushioned Sole: Asics Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes, $90 (orig. $140)
- Almost Half-Off: Vionic Walk Strider 001 Sneakers, from $76 (orig. $165)
- Lowest Price of the Year: Brooks Ghost Max 3 Neutral Running and Walking Shoes, $120 (orig. $160)
- Airy Everyday Sneakers: Aetrex Carly Orthopedic Knit Sneakers, $130
- “Excellent Cushioning”: New Balance W880v15 Sneakers, $150
- Great for Long Walks: New Balance 1080 V15 Running Shoes, $170
If you’re anything like me, your vacations are less about relaxing on the beach and more about following jam-packed itineraries that result in high daily step counts.
That’s why I called on board-certified podiatrist Matthew Neuhaus, DPM, FACFAS to pick his brain on the best sneakers for summer travels. He shared the three things he looks for in vacay-ready walking shoes — “cushioning, stability, and all-day comfort,” he says — and explained that “travelers often walk much farther than they do at home, so a supportive shoe can make a huge difference.”
Neuhaus name-dropped Asics, Brooks, New Balance, and more top brands to shop this summer, so I rounded up the best sneakers at Amazon. Shop these podiatrist-approved shoes from $43 now.
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Brooks Ariel GTS 24 Running and Walking Shoes
Dr. Neuhaus dubbed Brooks GTS and Ghost sneakers as two of his “favorite travel shoes right now.” He explained, “These shoes provide excellent cushioning while maintaining enough structure to keep the foot stable during long days of sightseeing… A well-designed sneaker can reduce stress not only on the feet, but also on the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.”
These sneakers are outfitted with lightweight, nitrogen-infused cushioning that absorbs impact and adapts to the shape of your foot over time, according to the brand. They also have a patented GuideRails technology to help with alignment, pronation, and excess joint movement.
Related: The Best Walking Shoes We Tested While Running Errands, Catching Flights, and Everything in Between
New Balance DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 Cross Trainers, $43 with coupon
Our expert also highlighted multiple styles from New Balance for summer travels, specifically the 880 sneakers and 1080 models. In general, however, he appreciates the brand for a number of reasons, namely its inclusive sizing for wide feet, comfort for conditions like plantar fasciitis, and consistent ability to balance “cushioning, stability, breathability, and fit.”
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, try this best-selling pair that’s marked down to as little as $43. It has a sporty design with a thick, foam sole that multiple reviewers compare to "walking on clouds.” The sneakers also have an easy-to-slip-on design thanks to their large ankle loops that help you guide your foot into the shoe.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Matthew Neuhaus, a board-certified podiatrist, is the founder of Neuhaus Foot and Ankle in Nashville, Tennessee. He received a doctorate from the California College of Podiatric Medicine in 2000 and completed his residency training in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery with the University of Louisville afterward. Dr. Neuhaus has been in private practice for 23 years.
Olukai Pehuea Li Lace-Up Sneakers
Summer travels can also mean sweaty feet (apologies for the visual), so Dr. Neuhaus shared his top recommendations for airy kicks to help beat the heat. He told PEOPLE, “I personally wear shoes from Olukai and have found them to be comfortable, lightweight, and well-ventilated.”
This pair has a low-profile silhouette made from an all-mesh upper that’s primed for hot weather. The shoes also have a more casual look compared to the athletic models Dr. Neuhaus recommended, so you can easily pair them with palazzo pants or sundresses during beach vacations.
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Dr. Neuhaus revealed one last pro tip to help you stay comfy on summer trips: “My advice is to never travel in brand-new shoes. Wear them for at least a few weeks before your trip so your feet can adapt.”
Vacation season is finally here, which means it's time to reassess your sneaker lineup. Shop these podiatrist-recommended shoes at Amazon before your next getaway.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes |
Vionic Walk Strider 001 Sneakers |
Brooks Ghost Max 3 Neutral Running and Walking Shoes |
Aetrex Carly Orthopedic Knit Sneakers |
New Balance W880v15 Sneakers |
New Balance 1080 V15 Running Shoes |
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