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The 22 Best Sneakers for Women of 2024

Hit the road with these comfortable sneaks.

A collage of sneakers for women on a blue background
Photo:

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

If your travels typically involve being on your feet for hours at a time — whether you’re embarking on a Scottish castle tour or indulging in a night of New York bar hopping — you’ll want to pack a pair of trusty sneakers. The best are built for all-day comfort with lightweight, breathable materials and a cushioned midsole that cradles your feet to prevent fatigue while also providing ample support. Pick a pair that can be dressed up, too, (we’re thinking stylish white canvas or tan leather) and you might be able to save precious suitcase space by leaving your nicer shoes at home. We’ve compared some of the most popular sneakers on the market to find the best picks for every budget and activity, from working out to setting new trends.

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers offer exceptional, out-of-the-box comfort at one of the most reasonable price points on this list. 

What to Consider
  • Arch support is fairly limited.

Retailing for well under $100, the adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoes are loved for their cushioned comfort and true-to-size fit. They’re ideal for travelers looking for a running-inspired aesthetic that looks as good on the plane or a local sightseeing tour as it does at the gym; plus, it cuts down on the number of shoes you need to take with you. They’re lightweight and breathable with a textile upper that’s well suited to warmer climates. And, the synthetic outsole is grippy and hard-wearing enough to tackle most terrains. 

The highlight is the cloudfoam midsole and memory foam sockliner, which combine to provide just the right amount of cushioning for everyday wear. These sneakers don’t have a ton of arch support, so that’s something to bear in mind for those that need it. Wasting time on tying and untying laces is a thing of the past thanks to the shoes’ smart lace closure system — just pull them on and go whenever adventure calls. Primegreen recycled materials score sustainability points, while colorways are numerous but mostly neutral. 

The Details:
5 to 11 | Textile upper, cloudfoam midsole, synthetic outsole

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers pair a memory foam insole with a slightly elevated heel to provide flawless all-day comfort. 


What to Consider
  • Styling options are limited with just three colorways to choose from.

Although our overall winner is undeniably budget friendly, the Skechers Summits Fun Flair Sneakers win in terms of affordability. Saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality or performance, either, since these shoes feature legendary comfort and convenience. Expect all the breathability and lightness that come with a mesh upper and stretch laces for easy on-and-off at airport security. 

The insole is cushioned with memory foam for cloud-like comfort. It’s also designed to absorb shock and ward off fatigue so you can wear the shoes for hours on end while exploring new places. Other highlights include a flexible traction outsole and 100 percent vegan construction. We also like the fashion-forward aesthetic of the sneakers’ 1.25-inch heel. Colors include navy, gray, or plum, all with a contrasting white sole. Worried about them getting dirty quickly? These shoes are fully machine washable. 

The Details:
5 to 11 | Mesh upper, memory foam insole

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers offer enough tech-based comfort and eye-catching style to justify their considerable price tag. 

What to Consider
  • The fit runs small, so consider purchasing a half-size up. 

The APL Women’s TechLoom Zipline sneakers cost almost five times as much as our budget pick. However, as the brand’s most advanced running shoe to date, we think the splurge is worth it. TechLoom Ziplines surround the proprietary single-layer upper, creating an instantly recognizable look that’s sure to impress fellow sneaker aficionados at the gym or on your travels. They’re functional, too, creating lateral and longitudinal support for the whole foot. 

With ribbing along the tongue and collar, the sneakers stretch easily to fit. The FutureFoam cushioned insole provides unrivaled rebound and energy return, while a slanted shank plate adds forward propulsion to every step. Seriously into running? These sneakers will help you achieve new personal bests with an 8-millimeter drop from the heel to the forefoot that places your feet in a natural position for efficient movement. And with 49 colors to choose from (from navy/ivory to bubblegum/satin pink), there’s an option for every taste. 

The Details:
5 to 11 | TechLoom upper, FutureFoam insole

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers come in no fewer than five widths and focus on next-level shock absorption and stability. 

What to Consider
  • Color choices are both limited and fairly utilitarian. 

No matter how wide your feet are, you should be able to find a size to fit with the New Balance Women’s 928v3 Sneakers. They come in five widths ranging from Narrow to XX-Wide, with a removable PU foam footbed that can easily be swapped out for orthotics. These sneakers feature a leather upper, making them more water-resistant than many of the mesh alternatives on this list and therefore a better fit for traveling to cooler, damper climates. 

They are exceptionally comfortable, thanks to a midsole made from the brand’s proprietary Abzorb material – a blend of foam and rubber that absorbs impact through cushioning and compression resistance. A stability system known as Rollbar provides enhanced support and movement control for the heel area, while the rubber outsole is designed for maximum durability. Colors include gray, black, and white/blue, and you can also choose whether you want yours with laces or hook-and-loop straps. 

The Details:
5 to 13 | Leather upper, PU foam footbed, Abzorb midsole, rubber outsole

Best for Narrow Feet

Cariuma Oca Low Sneakers

Cariuma Triple White Premium Leather Oca Low Sneakers
PHOTO:

Cariuma

Why We Love It
  • With a wide choice of materials and colors on offer, these sneakers also feature a slim silhouette and narrow toe box.

What to Consider
  • Prices vary considerably, with the leather version of these shoes being the most expensive. 

Although the Cariuma Oca Low Sneakers aren’t made especially for narrow feet, they’re known for their slim profile and narrow toe box. They’re also available in sizes as small as 2.5, making them ideal for those with seriously petite feet. You can choose from four upper material options including canvas, suede, leather, and recycled plastic. All of them are sustainably made with a cotton canvas lining, a bio-based insole with a cork insert, and recycled plastic and organic cotton laces. 

These sneakers have become our go-to shoes both at home and while traveling around the world. They’re comfortable, beautifully made, and available in a wide range of colors to suit every occasion. Although options depend on which material you go for, examples include white leather, camel brown suede, and pink lemonade canvas. Outsoles are made from slip-resistant rubber for reliable traction on slick city streets while the fact that 10 trees are planted for each pair bought helps offset your carbon footprint.     

The Details:
2.5 to 10.5 | Canvas/suede/leather/recycled plastic upper, canvas lining, mamona oil and cork insole, rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • These classic Italian sneakers have been pairing well with most outfits and occasions since their launch in 1925.  

What to Consider
  • While these shoes are super comfortable, we do wish the shoes offered more arch support. 

The Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneakers are something of a style icon, beloved by fashion-conscious travelers for almost a century. Made famous by Kate Middleton, they’re now available in virtually every shade imaginable from peach to green safari. In their white iteration, they are the perfect finishing touch to any outfit whether you’re dressing with a nautical theme for a Caribbean yacht cruise or pairing them with a cute dress for a New York city break. 

The fact that they go with everything also means you can drastically cut down on your suitcase space by only packing one pair of shoes. The sneakers pair a breathable cotton upper and lining with a sturdy rubber outsole that also happens to be non-marking (did we mention how great they are for on-deck adventures?). They’re even machine washable on a cold cycle. The fit runs large, so consider taking a half-size down. 

The Details:
5 to 15.5 | Cotton upper and lining, rubber outsole 

Why We Love It
  • This is the lightest, most cushioned version yet of Hoka’s award-winning Clifton style. 

What to Consider
  • The sneakers do come in a wide fit, but not in every colorway.

Recognized as being beneficial to foot health by the American Podiatric Medical Association, the Hoka Clifton 9s receive rave reviews for their incredible level of comfort. Intended for all activity levels whether you’re heading out on an all-day walking tour or planning a high-intensity run, they feature a breathable engineered knit upper and a gusseted tongue that stays securely in place for unhindered, non-chafing freedom of movement. 

Comfort is guaranteed by the compression-molded EVA foam midsole, which is symmetrical throughout for neutral stability. Meanwhile, the early stage MetaRocker design (aka, a 5-millimeter heel-to-toe drop) gives you just the right level of propulsive push-off when you want to pick up speed. The outsole is made of durable rubber. Finally, these vegan sneakers come in core black, white, and beige colorways as well as gorgeous seasonal styles ranging from raspberry/strawberry to airy blue/ice water. 

The Details:
5 to 12 | Knit upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Best Arch Support

Kuru Atom

Kuru Atom Sneakers
PHOTO:

Kuru

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers use proprietary technology, including insoles with exaggerated arch support, to cater specifically to those with foot pain.

What to Consider
  • They may be unnecessarily expensive for those that don’t need such an advanced support system.

Kuru focuses on creating pain-relieving footwear for people with conditions ranging from flat feet to plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and bunions. For those that need exaggerated arch support, the Atom Sneakers are the ultimate everyday athletic sneaker. They include a specialist insole, signature heel-hugging technology that flexes with each step to provide cradling support, and a thick, shock-absorbing midsole. The toe box is roomy, and the outsole is wide enough to provide added stability. 

The sneakers enhance your athletic performance, too, with a propulsive 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop and an airy mesh upper for ultimate breathability. Best of all, they don’t look like specialist shoes. Instead, they offer on-trend styles in a range of fashionable colorways with base shades ranging from jet black to cloud gray or electric grape. In line with the brand’s inclusive approach to footwear, the Atoms also come in medium and wide widths. 

The Details:
5 to 12 | Mesh upper, rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • With a close-to-the-ground design and largely recycled materials, these sneakers help wearers feel more connected to nature. 

What to Consider
  • These are specialist shoes meant for experienced barefoot athletes rather than for cushioned everyday use. 

If you like to maintain your workout routine on the road and know what to expect from barefoot shoes, you’ll love the ultra-packable Primus Lite IIIs from Vivobarefoot. They’re meant to provide natural strength, balance, and mobility for a wide variety of training styles from crossfit to HIIT workouts, and are also suitable for experienced barefoot runners. 

The polyester and polyurethane upper is both lightweight and breathable, with recycled elements and animal-free construction. Meanwhile, the Active Ortholite Performance Insole is made from 98-percent recycled PU foam, for a thin layer of cushioning that maintains your connection with the ground. The same is true of the synthetic rubber outsole. It’s flexible enough for the shoes to roll up neatly in your suitcase, but it’s also reinforced with a protective, puncture-resistant finish. Colors include obsidian, navy, bright white, and safety yellow. 

The Details: 5.5 to 11.5 | Polyester and polyurethane upper, synthetic rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • A timeless design and chic, neutral colorways make these sneakers a stylish pick for any occasion.

What to Consider
  • Colors may vary slightly from pair to pair due to the natural processing techniques used for the leather. 

If you’re hoping to reduce your packing list by finding a pair of sneakers that go with everything and can transition seamlessly from daytime pool sessions to evenings at the beach bar, you’ll love the Pehuea Lī ‘Ili sneakers from OluKai. They come in three neutral shades (white, dark java, and tan), fit true to size, and pair equally well with jeans, dresses, and shorts. And they’re made of supple full-grain leather in a classic silhouette that can easily be dressed up or down. 

We also love the versatility of the collapsible drop-in heel, which transforms the sneakers into slides for on-and-off convenience while traveling. The footbeds are anatomically contoured for comfort and support, and you can even remove and wash them if they start to look grubby. Got a yacht trip planned? These sneakers with their non-marking Wet Grip rubber outsoles will be more than welcome onboard. 

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather upper, rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers combine OluKai’s trademark comfort with increased airflow and the convenience of a collapsible heel. 

What to Consider
  • Their mesh construction means they’re best suited to warmer weather. 

Love the idea of OluKai’s Pehuea Lī ‘Ili sneakers but want something a little more suited to casual summer travels? Opt for the brand’s Pehuea sneakers instead. They feature a slip-on design with a collapsible heel that takes convenience to the next level, and they’re comfortable right out of the box. They look great, too, and will quickly become your go-to shoe for everything from long transit days to shopping excursions and city sightseeing. 

Uppers are made from lightweight, breathable mesh, giving your feet room to breathe in humid climates. And if they do get a bit sweaty, no problem: just remove the insoles and throw them in the wash. The midsole is cushioned with above-average arch support while the outsole is made from grippy, non-marking rubber. Expect a true-to-size fit and choose from a range of colors including black, bright white, and blush-colored cork. 

The Details: 5 to 12 | Mesh upper, rubber outsole

Best Sustainable

Allbirds Tree Runners

Allbirds Women's Tree Runners
PHOTO:

Dick's Sporting Goods

Why We Love It
  • Made with responsibly sourced and recycled materials, these carbon-neutral sneakers are as good for the environment as they are for your feet. 

What to Consider
  • The sneakers come in whole sizes only, so finding the perfect fit can be tricky for those who typically fall between sizes. 

Planet-conscious shoppers should check out allbirds, a certified carbon neutral business that balances its emissions by supporting renewable energy and land conservation projects. The Women’s Tree Runners are one of the brand’s best-loved styles, channeling the kind of classic chic that goes with just about anything. Uppers are made from responsibly sourced eucalyptus fiber, which is lightweight, breathable, and naturally thermoregulating for comfortable feet throughout the day. 

Midsoles are both contoured and cushioned to provide just the right amount of support for extended wear, and are made from sugarcane-based green EVA foam. Similarly, insole material is based on castor bean oil while each pair of laces repurposes a single plastic bottle. There are lots of colorways to choose from, some with contrasting soles and others with uniform color throughout. Whichever you choose, the fact that the sneakers are machine washable keeps them looking brand new for longer.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Eucalyptus fiber upper, SweetFoam midsole, castor bean oil-based insole, merino wool heel lining

Why We Love It
  • These specialist running sneakers are packed with technical features and have recently been redesigned to be more eco-friendly. 

What to Consider
  • If you often run in wet conditions, consider forking out a bit more for the waterproof version of these shoes. 

The On Running Cloud 5 sneakers are the latest iteration of one of the dedicated running brand’s best-selling styles. Changes include an improved fit and a transition to 44 percent recycled materials. They’re built for cloud-like lightness, with breathable uppers made of antimicrobial mesh that keeps odor-causing bacteria at bay. A 7-millimeter heel-to-toe drop provides propulsive power for increased forward momentum and speed, while the molded heel design keeps feet firmly in place.

One of the best features is the patented CloudTec midsole, which offers multidirectional energy return and uses Zero-Gravity foam to provide durable, cushioned comfort even during high-impact activities. We like the idea of the shoes’ convenient speed lacing system which allows you to pull them on and off without having to tie laces. But if you prefer to keep things traditional, your purchase comes with a set of classic laces as well. Colors are varied (though mostly neutral or pastel) and include denim, rose, and mulberry. 

The Details: 5 to 11 | Mesh upper, CloudTec midsole

Why We Love It
  • Purpose-built for training athletes, these sneakers focus on stability, support, and cushioning that’s as long-lasting as it is responsive. 

What to Consider
  • These are specialist shoes with a price tag to match.

If you’re serious about your gym workouts, then Nike’s Metcon 9 sneakers are the shoe for you. Built specifically with lifters and trainers in mind, they feature an exaggerated Hyperlift plate in the heel that forces weight down and out for unparalleled stability while squatting or dead-lifting. Rubber wrapping around the side of the sneakers adds heavy-duty durability for high-abrasion activities like rope climbing; while also adding structure and support to the lightweight, breathable mesh upper. 

By combining layers of soft and dense foam, the midsole provides ample cushioning while also standing up to repeated compression. The rubber outsole is meant to give faultless traction on all kinds of surfaces. You won’t have to worry about trailing laces anymore, either, thanks to the sneakers’ secure lace lock system. Colorways are multi-hued and attention grabbing (think black/fireberry/metallic gold or jade ice/black/mineral white). Note that the full size range is only available in select colors. 

The Details: 5 to 15 | Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber wrap and outsole

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers are built to withstand the elements while providing support and protection on the trail.

What to Consider
  • While we love the statement-making ombre colorways, some may wish for a wider choice of neutral options.

The Keen Women’s NXIS Speed sneakers are the ideal compromise for travelers who want the protection and support of a dedicated hiking boot but still need to adhere to luggage weight restrictions. They are the brand’s lightest ever hiking shoe, with breathable performance mesh uppers and a no-nonsense speed lacing system. The mesh is made extra durable for outdoor use with TPU reinforcements in high-wear areas and a PFAS-free, durable water-repellent coating. 

Eco Anti-Odor technology keeps your feet (and your suitcase) fresh. Comfort is key, too, with a split toe cap that prevents stubbed toes on the trail while maintaining your natural dexterity; a generous toe box; and a removable insole with good arch support. No matter where your hiking adventures take you, these sneakers are built for all-terrain traction with a deep-lugged, multidirectional rubber outsole. Colors range from practical black to lavender or fjord blue ombre.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Mesh upper, TPU reinforcements, PU insole, rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • These platform sneakers make a definite fashion statement whether you pair them with leggings, cropped jeans, or even a bodycon dress. 

What to Consider
  • The fit runs small, so we recommend ordering a half-size up. 

Although they boast a grippy rubber sole and supportive full lace closure, the Puma Cali Wedge Women’s Sneakers aren’t meant for the trail. Instead, these are shoes for the urban fashionista, with an extreme wedge sole and overt branding in the form of a gold metallic Puma side tab and woven Puma tongue label. Whether you choose yours in all white or black with a white sole, they’re designed to elevate your look, elongate your legs, and provide a focal point for your Instagram travel stories. 

They’re made from synthetic leather with perforated accents that fulfill the dual purpose of looking good and adding breathability. These sneakers are as comfortable as they are attractive, and are easy to walk in whether you’re hopping from one restaurant to the next or traipsing through the airport. 

The Details: 5.5 to 11 | Synthetic leather upper, rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • First launched in 1917, Chuck Taylor All Stars have since become some of the most iconic sneakers in existence. 

What to Consider
  • With no real arch or ankle support, these are definitely fashion sneakers rather than serious athletic shoes. 

We challenge you to name a sneaker more instantly recognizable than Converse’s Chuck Taylor All Star High-Tops. For decades, they’ve been the casual footwear of choice for every cool kid in town, and revisiting the look is a great way to give your wardrobe a touch of retro chic. Many special editions have come and gone since the sneakers’ creation in the beginning of the 20th century, but the classic choice is still the original unisex high-top. 

Choose yours in old-school black, red, or optical white. Or, keep it fresh with newer colors including electric purple and lemon chrome. You can even use the brand’s virtual design feature to create your own custom pair from scratch. All options feature the same durable canvas upper with the iconic Chuck Taylor ankle patch and All Star back tab. The stiff canvas can take some breaking in — but once that’s done, OrthoLite cushioning and airflow-inducing eyelets make for shoes that are as comfortable as they are cool. 

The Details: 5 to 15 | Canvas upper, OrthoLite midsole, rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers offer full waterproofing while remaining flexible and light enough to run freely. 

What to Consider
  • The reduced amount of rubber in the sole affects their durability.

If you’re the kind of athlete or adventurer who can’t be kept down by bad weather, Nike’s Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX sneakers will be your new best friend. They’re designed for serious runners, with a lightweight profile and an 8.5-millimeter heel-to-toe drop providing plenty of forward propulsion. They’re also highly protective with a fully waterproof GORE-TEX layer, an ankle gaiter to keep splashes and debris out, and reflective details for improved safety when road running in the dark or on gloomy days. 

Comfort is a priority too, with a Nike React foam midsole offering responsive cushioning along the length of the shoe for added energy return and stability. The rubber outsole wraps around the front of the sneaker to protect your toes and provide extra grip on technical trails – but is reduced through the heel for a smoother ride on the road. We also love the unique, vibrant, and multi-hued colorways on offer. You can even design your own. 

The Details: 5 to 12 | Mesh and GORE-TEX upper, Nike React foam midsole, rubber outsole

Why We Love It
  • These sneakers feature a classic, versatile style that’ll pair well with every outfit in your travel wardrobe.

What To Consider
  • They only come in three colors.

These classic white sneakers from Cole Haan will pair perfectly with every outfit, from a floral maxi dress to jeans and a leather jacket. With a clean, streamlined silhouette, the Women’s Grand Crosscourt Sneakers are stylish enough to be a natural addition to any travel outfit, but are also practical and comfortable enough to wear for hours on your feet. Beyond their versatile style, the leather uppers are naturally breathable and the lightweight EVA outsole provides excellent traction and optimal cushioning.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Rubber sole, EVA outsole

Why We Love It
  • They come in a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from.

What To Consider
  • The 1.5-inch platform may be too tall for some.

Not only are these sneakers super cute and extremely comfortable, but they’re also sustainably made, featuring an eco-conscious fabric toe-box, heel made from recycled materials, and linings and upper made from recycled bottles. Despite the somewhat high 1.5-inch platform, these shoes remain incredibly lightweight and flexible, featuring antimicrobial and anti-odor Insole Technology with anatomical cushioning and arch support, so they’ll stay comfortable no matter how many miles you clock while wearing them.

The Details: 5 to 13 | Faux leather, canvas, ripstop from recycled plastic bottles, or partially recycled neoprene fabric

Why We Love It
  • These chic suede sneakers will earn you major style points.

What To Consider
  • They only come in one color and a limited range of sizes.

Veja’s Campo Bicolor Leather Low-Top Sneakers offer travelers the perfect combination of comfort and style, with their sleek low-top design and unique yet versatile color scheme. With a rubber sole for added traction and a leather and suede upper, these classic sneakers feature a round toe and flat heel. Veja is a Certified B Corporation, meaning they focus on ethical manufacturing and environmentally-friendly practices, so you can look as good as you feel about this purchase.

The Details: 5B to 10B | Leather and suede upper, recycled polyester lining, rubber sole

Why We Love It
  • On’s shoes are extremely popular right now and these sneakers feature their easily recognizable silhouette. 

What to Consider
  • They are on the pricey end of the spectrum for a pair of sneakers.

When it comes to trendy women’s sneakers, there is perhaps no brand trending more right now than On. And of their bestselling women’s shoes, the Cloudtilt model might just be the trendiest option on the market. Ultra-lightweight and highly cushioned, these sneakers have an instantly identifiable look and are made for ultimate performance. With a mesh upper made with 100 percent recycled polyester and CloudTec Phase® technology for smooth weight transfer, you really can’t go wrong with snagging a pair of these.

The Details: 5 to 11 | 98 percent recycled polyester

Tips for Buying Women’s Sneakers

Think about how you plan to use them

Sneakers cover a broad spectrum of different styles and purposes. It’s important to consider your requirements carefully before deciding on a pair. Some are intended specifically for athletic use with technical elements designed to give you the edge whether on the track, the trail, or training in the gym — though "sneakers" shouldn't be confused with actual tennis shoes. These range from an exaggerated heel-to-toe drop for extra propulsion to antimicrobial, moisture-wicking materials. 

Others are meant for casual comfort with a cushioned midsole and slip-on convenience, while some (like the Puma wedges listed above) are more statement-making fashion pieces. If you plan to use your sneakers for travel, comfort, lightness, and breathability are key factors to consider. Versatility is important, too, because sneakers that go with everything and can be dressed up or down eliminate the need to pack a different pair of shoes for every occasion. 

Prioritize comfort

The best pair of sneakers is the pair you actually want to wear. After all, it doesn’t matter how good they look in the box: if they chafe or cause your feet to sweat, they won’t make it out of your suitcase. Look for lightweight, breathable materials that can adapt to a range of temperatures. A roomy toe box is key for avoiding uncomfortable pinching; and while the ideal amount of arch and ankle support depends on your chosen activities and personal preference, it’s important that your sneakers meet these requirements. A cushioned midsole is a great way to prevent foot fatigue and increase energy return, too.

Consider the materials

When looking for the perfect pair of sneakers, you'll want to pay close attention to what they're made of. If you plan to do a lot of walking or exploring in your shoes, opt for naturally breathable materials like leather, canvas, nubuck, and suede. Also consider the sole: we suggest choosing EVA whenever possible. A rubber-like material that's softer than rubber, EVA is more flexible and adds padding to the sole, making it ideal for sneakers you plan to wear often.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long can I expect my sneakers to last?

    As a general rule of thumb, a good pair of shoes should last for between 300 and 500 miles of wear (approximately 8 to 12 months of frequent use). If you only wear yours occasionally, their lifespan will obviously be a lot longer. Keep an eye out for wear and tear that goes beyond the superficial, including worn tread patterns, outsoles that no longer sit flush on an even surface, tears or holes in the interior lining, compression or creasing of the midsole, and any noticeable decline in comfort or support. 

  • How do I care for my sneakers?

    Care instructions vary considerably depending on how your sneakers are made and the materials they’re made from. You should always consult the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning them. Sneakers with fabric uppers (mesh, cotton, and polyester) are sometimes machine washable. You should use a cold, delicate cycle and avoid using potentially damaging fabric softeners, then leave the shoes out to air dry. 


    Other sneakers have removable insoles that can be washed, while uppers should be spot cleaned with a damp cloth. Canvas sneakers can be cleaned with regular soap and water and a soft toothbrush; or with a Magic Eraser sponge made of melamine foam. Magic Erasers are also great for removing stubborn stains from the rubber soles of most sneaker types. Leather and suede uppers usually require a specialist cleaning product. You can use waterproofing sprays like Nikwax to extend the lifespan of most fabric and leather shoes.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear with a focus on clothing and luggage for more than 10 years. She’s put her own sneakers to the test on countless adventures across six continents. For this article, she spent hours scouring customer and industry reviews to find the best women’s sneakers currently on the market. Category winners were selected from a long list of more than 40 pairs for their superior combination of quality, comfort, and value for money. 

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Edited by
Sophie Mendel
Editor Sophie Mendel at a restaurant
Sophie Mendel is a Commerce Editor at Travel + Leisure with Dotdash Meredith where she assigns, edits and publishes the product reviews and recommendations that help guide travelers toward the best shoes, apparel and accessories for their needs. Sophie has traveled to 50 countries and has lived in five, and is bilingual in English and Spanish. She has more than five years of experience as a writer, editor and copywriter.
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