The Best Shoes to Wear Through Airport Security

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Navigating airport security can be a stressful ordeal, but choosing the right footwear can help make the experience just a little bit easier. You don’t want to be that traveler that holds up the entire security line because your boots set off the security alarm or you can’t get your complicated shoes off fast enough. 

Your shoes will carry you from your home to your destination, so be sure to pick footwear that’s not only TSA-friendly but also comfortable to wear during your entire journey. We’ve put together expert tips on which shoe to wear to the airport, along with recommendations for editor-approved options. 

Tips for Choosing the Best Shoe to Wear to the Airport

When you’re deciding which shoes to wear to the airport, there are a few things to look for:

1. Only wear shoes you’ll wear again on your trip
2. Don’t wear shoes or boots with lots of metal, as they can set off scanner alarms
3. Pick footwear that is easy to take on and off (although this is less of a concern if you have TSA PreCheck and can leave your shoes on during screening)
4. Choose shoes that will be comfortable on the plane
5. Wear shoes that are comfortable for walking, as you may have to walk long distances between gates
6. If you’re short on packing space, wear your bulkiest boots on the plane
7. Headed on an important hiking trip? Always wear your hiking boots on the plane in case your luggage gets lost. You don’t want to have to try to break in a new pair of boots on a bucket list hike. 

Rothy’s RS02 Sneaker

I wear Rothy’s RS02 Sneaker on literally every trip that I go on, and have been stopped multiple times in the airport by strangers asking me where I got my shoes. These sneakers are the perfect travel shoe for several reasons:

1.  They’re machine washable, so I throw them in the wash after every trip, and they never look dirty or smell
2. Made from a stretchy knit material (derived from recycled plastic bottles), they comfortably accommodate swollen feet during flights 
3. Their flexible design allows you to slip them on and off easily without untying them, ideal for airport security
4. The cushioned insole provides comfort and support for long days on your feet

I’m particularly enthusiastic about Rothy’s latest version, which has a partially perforated upper to enhance airflow and is great for summer trips. 

The RS02 sneakers are available in a men’s version as well. 

OluKai Lae’ahi Lil’li Leather Sneakers

If you don’t have TSA PreCheck, or if you’re traveling back to the United States from another country, you should be prepared to take your shoes off at airport security. This won’t be a problem if you’re wearing OluKai’s Lae’ahi Lil’li Leather Sneakers, which feature the brand’s trademarked collapsible drop-in heel. This unique design looks normal when you’re wearing the shoe but allows the heel to fold down to convert it into a mule so you can slide them seamlessly on and off to pass through airport security.  

These full-grain waterproof leather sneakers are waterproof, so you can confidently pack these for trips with rain in the forecast. Our tester raved about the shoes’ microfiber lining, which was breathable (so you don’t have to be that person taking their shoes off on the plane) but still felt cozy and comfortable. 

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OluKai makes a women’s version of these shoes, called the Pehuea Li’lli Sneakers. 

Toms Classic Alpagarta

One SmarterTravel editor recommends wearing Toms’ Classic Alpagarta shoes for any type of travel, but especially for flying. The slip-on design makes the shoes easy to take on and off, allowing you to breeze through security.

Made from a soft textile fabric, the Alpagartas are very lightweight and comfortable on long flights, and the latex arch insert gives great support for walking once you get off the plane. 

The Alpagarta style is available in men’s as well. 

Viscata Rubina Espadrille Flats

Whether you’re flying first class (or just want to look like you are), sometimes you need a dressier shoe that will carry you through to a nice dinner or meeting at your destination when you land. Don’t sacrifice comfort for style—just opt for Viscata’s Rubina Espadrille Flats.

The slip-on design is ideal for passing through airport security, and the minimal heel adds just the right amount of lift without being uncomfortable. These espadrilles are handmade in Spain, and I can verify that you’ll fit in while wearing them in Europe. 

The canvas material is breathable and doesn’t require a breaking-in period. It can also be wiped down for easy cleaning.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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