I am not exaggerating when I say that I have tested hundreds and hundreds of sneakers over the years. As a longtime health and fitness journalist, it doesn’t take long for me to separate this type of shoe into a few different categories: perfect for running, best for long walks, solid cross trainer, perfect for trails, etc. .
However, the pair I’m always looking for, the true unicorn shoe, is a solid travel sneaker. I’m talking about sneakers that aren’t too bulky and don’t take up too much room in my bag. These sneakers need to power me through holiday runs, but also function as comfortable walking shoes, with enough traction for hiking trails and city walks. Of course, it’s also a big bonus if the shoe is decently stylish and suitable for sightseeing.
With this kind of criteria, I don’t find a surplus of ideal travel sneakers (unicorn again). That’s why I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered Allbirds Women’s Tree Flyers.
Allbirds
To buy: allbirds.com, $160
I’ve been a fan of Allbirds’ sustainable shoes for years, and I’m in good company—celebrities like Jennifer Garner, Hilary Duff, Blake Lively and Mila Kunis have all been seen wearing the brand. But when I first tried the Tree Flyer in June 2022, I knew the supportive yet lightweight sneaker would be a game changer.
I decided to really give Tree Flyers a try when I packed them as my go-to sneaker on a trip to Hawaii last September. At this stage I had only worn them once so I was taking a risk by using them on holiday. Fortunately, they held on. From my flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu to running through the hills in Lanai and hiking in Oahu, they provided the ultimate in comfort.
Travel + leisure / Christine Thomasson
The very first day I arrived on Lanai, I laced up my Tree Flyers and went for a run. I felt cushioned on my feet, keeping a bounce in my step as I ran up hills nestled in the center of the island and down roads lined with hundreds of pine trees (yes, pine trees).
During the trek up the Koloiki Ridge, the tough, natural rubber tread helped me stay stable as I floated from gravel roads to dusty trails. At the top I was greeted by a vast, breathtaking view, along with a family of Bighorn sheep climbing up the canyon. Later, when I hopped over to Oahu, these lightweight sneakers continued to offer support as I explored various corners of the island.
Travel + leisure / Christine Thomasson
Even though these shoes were almost out of the box, my feet were completely blister free by the end of the trip. I was also really impressed with their versatility, thanks to a few thoughtful features.
Specially designed for distance running, the Tree Flyers have a high-performance, high-cushion outsole that’s designed to ease the miles on the body. I also liked that the lightweight, breathable woven eucalyptus fiber upper can be compressed for easy packing (without damaging the structure or support of the shoe).
What’s more, these sneakers look really cool — mine are in cream, which is a unique neutral shade with multi-colored eyelets. They are also available in nine other colors, including classic black, luxurious beige and teal. The geometric construction of the outsole has an almost futuristic feel – and it’s also a functional choice, helping to maximize cushioning while reducing weight. Plus, the sturdy FSC-certified natural rubber protector offers a contrasting bottom color.
Allbirds
To buy: allbirds.com, $160
Like all their products, Allbirds’ Tree Flyer is made with Earth-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices, meaning you can feel good about the impact of this purchase.
Allbirds customers are also raving about these sneakers – the shoe currently has more than 315 five-star reviews on their website. One Allbirds buyer shared, “I’ve worn them for two weeks now in four cities—in the rain, lots of plane rides, and running. I love them because my feet are comfortable,” continuing, “I also feel good that they’re durable.” Another shopper said, “They’re the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn. They are, quite frankly, like walking in slippers.
Allbirds
To buy: allbirds.com, $160
Having worn the Allbirds Women’s Tree Flyer for a long time on my trip to Hawaii, I can attest to their quality as well. They’re definitely not the same color as they were when I left (thanks, dusty hikes), but these sneakers have proven worthy of the title of “travel shoe” nonetheless, and will no doubt be joining me on future adventures.
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