Are loafers good for walking?

“The short answer is yes — loafers can be good for walking, as long as they're the right type of loafer,” explains Pledger. “Slip-on loafers are easy to put on and take off, and they're ideal for walking, because they provide good support and stability. Lace-up loafers, on the other hand, are more difficult to put on and take off, and they're not as stable. So if you're looking for a loafer to walk around in, make sure you choose a slip-on style.”

Should I wear socks with loafers?

According to Pledger, this depends on the type of loafer. If you're wearing a slip-on loafer, you don't necessarily need to wear socks, although it's always an option. However, if you're wearing a lace-up loafer, it's best to wear socks so your feet don't slip around inside the shoe.

What are the different types of loafers?

“There are many different types of loafers, but the most common are tasseled, penny, and moccasin styles,” explains Pledger. “Tasseled loafers have a long strip of leather that hangs down from the tongue, and they're often considered to be more formal. Penny loafers have a small coin-shaped piece of leather on the top, and they're typically worn for casual occasions. Moccasin loafers are made with soft, supple leather, and they have a very relaxed look.”

The 12 Best Women's Loafers of 2023

Packing light while traveling is key these days — and the right pair of versatile and comfortable shoes can be the difference between a checked bag and a carry-on. Sneakers and flats tend to be our first thought when it comes to travel-friendly footwear, but a stylish loafer might be a better option if you’re in search of something that can handle hours of exploring on foot and look just as good with more formal attire come evening.

Looking to invest in a new pair of loafers for travel? We’ve rounded up some of the best options on the market right now — including my personal favorite, the Coach Crosby Driver, which has taken me from caverns in Australia to five-star dinners in Europe. Whether you’re looking for a stylish designer shoe for your next weekend in Paris or you want something cheap and chic you can throw in your carry-on without worry, our list has something for every kind of traveler.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Coach Crosby Driver at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Amazon Essentials Women's Loafer Flat at Amazon

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Best Sustainable:

Vivaia Square-toe Loafers at Vivaia.com

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Best for Walking:

Dr. Scholl's Shoes Webster Loafer at Amazon

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Best Chunky:

Clarks Airabell Slip Loafer at Amazon

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Best Penny Loafers:

Sperry Seaport Penny Loafer at Amazon

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Best Designer:

Gucci Jordaan Bit Loafer at Nordstrom

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Best for Wide Feet:

Toms Redondo Loafer Flat at Amazon

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Best Water-resistant:

Rothy’s The Loafer at Rothys.com

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Most Comfortable:

Sam Edelman Loafer at Amazon

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Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos

Why We Love It

This high-quality loafer will last for years, thanks to its sturdy leather, rubber construction, and craftsmanship.

What to Consider

The soft leather will expand over time and might start to feel a bit loose.

The Coach Crosby Driver is my personal favorite travel loafer — in fact, I’ve recently repurchased the same pair after wearing out my first pair over the past five or six years of almost daily use. This high-end loafer is made to take a pounding and can easily withstand hiking through mountain ranges, walking the beach, and putting in thousands of cobblestoned steps without becoming tattered or ratty-looking, thanks to the pebbled leather outer and thick rubber sole.

The Crosby Driver is also supremely comfortable and takes no time at all to break in. The soft, pliable leather molds to the shape of your foot, while the cushioned insole offers enough support to provide stabilization and impact resistance whether you’re trekking through the city or exploring the wilderness.

Price at time of publish: $165

The Details: Leather, rubber | 5 to 11 | 9 ounces per pair

Amazon

View On Amazon

Why We Love It

Besides the great price point, this pair is ultra-minimalist and stylish.

What to Consider

It might not offer the best support for long-term wear.

This no-frills, easy-going loafer can be tossed into your carry-on and thrown on when you need something a little more professional while on the road. The budget-friendly loafer by Amazon Essentials is crafted using a mix of real and faux leathers and suedes to achieve a comfortable and breathable shoe while the built-in “heel pillow” comfort technology helps protect your feet from walking impact. This option is available in a huge variety of colors, including powder pink, metallic gold, and basics like black and beige. It even comes in larger sizes as well as wide sizing options.

Price at time of publish: $23

The Details: Leather, polyurethane | 5 to 15 | 4.8 ounces per pair

Vivaia

View On Vivaia.com

Why We Love It

This comfy, sustainable option is made from post-consumer plastic bottles.

What to Consider

They run small and might not be best for wider feet.

The Vivaia Square-toe Loafer is crafted using a total of six post-consumer plastic bottles for a much more eco-friendly and sustainable approach to casual footwear. The square-toe loafer features an elegant knit upper that looks formal enough to wear to a five-star hotel dinner or reception while the anti-slip rubber outer and deodorizing cushioned insole ensure you’ll be able to wear the loafer for hours without experiencing foot pain or questionable smells. We also love this loafer for travel, because it can be thrown in the washer and hung to dry and can even get twisted up in your carry-on without cracking or creasing.

Price at time of publish: $89

The Details: Plastic bottles, rubber | 5 to 10.5 | 9.2 ounces per pair

Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Webster Loafer

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Drschollsshoes.com

Why We Love It

Sometimes you need a little extra support, and this pair offers all the orthopedics without sacrificing style.

What to Consider

This pair makes a small squeaking noise when walking, and some might find it annoying.

Looking for a loafer you know will support your feet properly while putting in thousands of steps exploring? The Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Webster Loafer was designed for long hours shuffling between museums and exploring city streets with comfort insole technology and anatomical cushioning that helps to provide superior heel, toe, and arch support all day long. The elegant loafer looks nothing like a traditional orthopedic shoe because of the minimalistic silhouette and variety of colors and materials, including black pebbled leather, patent leather, and leopard print.

Price at time of publish: $85

The Details: Faux leather, synthetic materials | 6 to 11 Wide | 1.7 pounds per pair

Amazon

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Why We Love It

This chunky slip loafer combines contemporary trends with classic style for a stand-out shoe that is just as comfortable as it is cool.

What to Consider

The two-inch heels make these shoes quite heavy.

The Clarks Women's Airabell Slip Loafer offers the same sensibility and versatility as a regular loafer with a little extra style infused into each shoe. The chunky loafer features a two-inch heel that will give you some lift without having to navigate stilettos or platform heels while on the go. The soft synthetic outsole also provides ample support for the heel and foot, making it a great option for those who are looking for a supportive shoe that doesn’t skimp on current fashion. This option also comes in brown and navy, but we happen to like the all-black monochromatic option the best.

Price at time of publish: $95

Materials: Suede, ethylene vinyl acetate | Sizes: 5 to 12 extra-wide | Weight per pair: 2 pounds per pair

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dillards.com View On Sperry.com

Why We Love It

This timeless pair of penny loafers is crafted from buttery-soft leather that will only look and feel better with age.

What to Consider

This pair runs small, so it might be smart to size up.

The Sperry brand is synonymous with high-quality boat shoes and summertime footwear, and the Seaport Penny Loafer is just as noteworthy. The classic silhouette is crafted with the same buttery-soft leather as the Sperry boat shoe, while the thick rubber sole was designed to withstand uneven city streets and sidewalks. The full-length cushioned memory foam insole and flexible Strobel construction will also help to ensure that this shoe remains comfortable for hours on end. We also love that the ultra-soft leather material molds to the foot and won’t result in blisters or rubbing while breaking them in.

Price at time of publish: $105

The Details: Leather, rubber | 5 to 12 | 10 ounces per pair

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom

Why We Love It

This classic pair of designer loafers was made to last for decades with proper care and maintenance.

What to Consider

The stiff leather exterior can be a little hard to break in at first.

The Gucci Jordaan Bit Loafer has been a staple in the fashion industry since it was first released over sixty years ago — and for good reason. The slim leather silhouette and striking gold horse-bit hardware were designed and crafted in Italy and were made to last for decades without losing their refined shape and texture. The universal design is ideal for transitioning from daytime to evening without sacrificing sophistication, but the best part is that this loafer will never go out of style and only gets better looking with age and patina.

Price at time of publish: $920

The Details: Leather | 4 to 12

Amazon

View On Amazon

Why We Love It

This lightweight canvas design expands comfortably, making it a great option for wide feet or those who are prone to swelling.

What to Consider

The thin canvas design might rip or tear with age and wear.

The Toms Women's Redondo Loafer Flats are one of our favorite loafers for travel for so many reasons, but the shoe really stands out for those who have wide feet or experience swelling while traveling. The breathable canvas outer material was designed to expand and cushion the foot without being too constricting, while the slip-on design makes it easy to pull this pair on and off as you navigate TSA screenings or walk on the beach. The minimalist modern design is also a great option if you’re hoping to pack just one or two pairs of shoes for your entire trip.

Price at time of publish: $50

The Details: Synthetic | 5 to 12 | 1.5 pounds per pair

Rothy's

View On Rothys.com

Why We Love It

This water-resistant loafer can withstand rain and ocean water and was made to be thrown in the washer as needed.

What to Consider

The sizing runs small; it might be smart to size up.

Looking for a loafer that won’t shrivel or stain in a rainstorm or while walking on the beach? Rothy’s The Loafer can handle all of that and then some. The water-resistant loafer features a lightweight knit upper that is breathable and comfy, while the machine-washable and moisture-wicking design ensures you won’t have to face sweaty feet or any odors that might arise from wearing your shoes by the water. This loafer also features material spun from plastic water bottles, with over thirteen bottles' worth per pair.

Price at time of publish: $169

The Details: Recycled plastic, rubber | 5 to 13

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom

Why We Love It

This versatile shoe comes in over a dozen different colors and textures.

What to Consider

The rigid sole should be broken in before wearing all day.

These loafers are so comfortable you'll want to collect these shoes in a variety of fun colors made from leather, textile, or even suede. Once you break these shoes in, you'll want to live in their comfortable, cushioned soles. Featuring a cute and stylish front gold buckle, these slip-ons are the perfect statement shoe that will go with everything from skirts to jeans keeping you looking your best on the go. Plus, the shoes come in a huge variety of sizes that includes both wide and regular styles so you can find your perfect fit.

Price at time of publish: $150

The Details: Leather or textile | 5 to 13 Wide | 9.2 ounces per pair

4.5

Bloomingdale's

View On Bloomingdales View On Freepeople.com View On Ghbass.com

Why We Love It

This is a high-quality, hand-sewn shoe without the luxury price tag.

What to Consider

They run large and may stretch.

For a simple and elegant every day loafer, the Whitney Weejuns from G.H. Bass has you covered. Not only are these high quality and elegant shoes, but they're also incredibly comfortable with a thick and supportive sole. These loafers feature a heel that's less than one inch tall, giving you just the right amount of height without making you uncomfortable throughout the day. Their somewhat plain design also makes for a perfect shoe to elevate your daytime look to a classy evening shoe — saving you packing space on your next vacation.

Price at time of publish: $155

The Details: Leather | 5 to 11 | 9 ounces per pair

Amazon

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Why We Love It

They're simple, yet versatile.

What to Consider

They do feature a one-inch heel, so may not be great for walking long distances.

Get ready to meet your favorite new shoe with this simple pair of loafers that goes with absolutely everything. With a soft exterior and thick block heel, you'll happily wear these shoes to the office, out to dinner, and everywhere in between. This shoe also comes in narrow, medium, and wide sizes, so you can find your perfect fit. For such a subtly elegant and budget-friendly shoe, you'll happily click "add to cart" for every color of these loafers.

Price at time of publish: $99

The Details: Leather | 5 to 13 | 12 ounces per pair

Tips for Buying Women’s Loafers for Travel

Consider use and material

First, think about the material. “Loafers are usually made from leather, but they can also be made from other materials, such as suede or fabric. If you're planning on doing a lot of walking in your loafers, then I would recommend choosing a pair made from leather,” says Dr. Daniel Pledger, podiatrist and founder of ePodiatrists. “That will help to prevent blisters and keep your feet comfortable.”

Prioritize comfort

You’ll also want to think about the size and fit of the loafer. “It's important to choose a pair that fits well, as ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters and other foot problems,” says Pledger.

Think about the style of the loafer

“Don’t forget to consider the style of loafer you want and how they will fit in with the rest of your wardrobe,” says Pledger. There are three main types of loafers: tassel, penny, and slip-on. Tassel loafers are a classic style, and they usually have a leather upper with a decorative tassel on the front. Penny loafers are another classic style. They usually have a leather or suede upper and a band of leather across the top. Slip-on loafers are the simplest style, and as the name suggests, they simply slip on your feet. They're usually made from suede or fabric, and they don't have any laces or straps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are loafers good for walking?

“The short answer is yes — loafers can be good for walking, as long as they're the right type of loafer,” explains Pledger. “Slip-on loafers are easy to put on and take off, and they're ideal for walking, because they provide good support and stability. Lace-up loafers, on the other hand, are more difficult to put on and take off, and they're not as stable. So if you're looking for a loafer to walk around in, make sure you choose a slip-on style.”
Should I wear socks with loafers?

According to Pledger, this depends on the type of loafer. If you're wearing a slip-on loafer, you don't necessarily need to wear socks, although it's always an option. However, if you're wearing a lace-up loafer, it's best to wear socks so your feet don't slip around inside the shoe.
What are the different types of loafers?

“There are many different types of loafers, but the most common are tasseled, penny, and moccasin styles,” explains Pledger. “Tasseled loafers have a long strip of leather that hangs down from the tongue, and they're often considered to be more formal. Penny loafers have a small coin-shaped piece of leather on the top, and they're typically worn for casual occasions. Moccasin loafers are made with soft, supple leather, and they have a very relaxed look.”

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure writers are shopping, fashion, and product experts who use personal experience and customer recommendations to choose the best items for shoppers. For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis spoke to Dr. Daniel Pledger, podiatrist and founder of ePodiatrists, and she and Taylor Fox used their experiences as loafer enthusiasts and travel writers to curate the best options to suit most needs.

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