Packable Shoes

[Tarheel55]

This may be an odd questions but I am looking for a pair of packable shoes to go to the gym or just provide a more casual option.

I am looking at the allbirds or suavas. Has anyone had any experience or a better option?


Thanks

[jessmakes]

For what it’s worth, I would consider the all birds as decent walking shoes, but would not consider them as a regular gym shoe. They just don’t offer enough support...

[smallbug]

I recent bought a pair of allbirds ballet flats. I really like them for walking.
Since these are the ballet flats, I don’t think they would do well as a gym shoe. I can say my experience buying them was nice and their standard shipping was quick.


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[Bogiesan]

Lemsshoes.com

[anna2222]

https://xeroshoes.com/shop/

[one acorn]

I have an older pair of Merrell “barefoot” running shoes (similar to these Women’s Vapor Glove styles: https://www.merrell.com/US/en/barefoot-1/) that take up very little space and have been great for both trails and treadmills (when I’m stuck at the hotel on work trips). I also second the Xero Shoes recommendation. I have several pairs of their sandals, which are so easy to pack! And they have great runner/hiker options that offer a bit more cushion than the Merrells.


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[BWeaves]

Allbirds have a stiff heel cup that does not fold down. I don't think of them as packable, and they don't have enough support for the gym or walking. I like the idea of wool shoes and I have many wool clogs, but I find Allbirds don't have enough toe room and the tongue wrinkles up, and the heel cup is too stiff.

[ClicketySnap]

These are made with a wider toe-box and a thin, minimalist sole and won't suit everyone, but Xeroshoes are definitely a packable option for footwear. I've travelled with both the Lena's (casual canvas shoes) and the Prio's (more of a running shoe) and really enjoyed how flat they packed in my bag.

Again, wide toe-box and barefoot design make them not suited for all feet.

[Elisa_eh]

If you’re interested in barefoot shoes (which in my opinion are the peak of packability), my favourite brand is Vivo Barefoot.
Pictured: as comfortable on the icy streets of Berlin as muddy dog walking in the Dandenongs

A friend got me interested in them when I was travelling in Germany - they’re relatively well known there - and I’m hooked.
The shape fits my feet perfectly (way better than Xero) and some of their styles look really cool (as a young person I feel I have some authority on that [emoji6]).

If I needed a gym shoe this would be it:
https://www.vivobarefoot.com/au/wome...s?colour=Black

Or for travelling I would pick this:
https://www.vivobarefoot.com/au/wome...s?colour=Black

Of course, barefoot shoes take some getting used to and for some people they’re not an option, but I’m a convert. They’ve genuinely changed my lifestyle, both travelling and at home.

PS. In contrast, my German friend buys super cheap slip-ons from Kmart, Target and similar stores and just throws them out when she doesn’t need them or can’t afford the weight. Her travel style is very different to mine!


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[NWhikergal]

For casual wear, I am a fan of a Seattle company, Luna sandals Award Winning Running and Outdoor Adventure Sandals - Made in USA . I have had their more minimalist mono sandals for several years, but I recently tried their more plush mono gordo winged edition sandals (isn't that a mouthful!), and while they are less packable, they sure are comfortable. For someone who has not converted to all barefoot style shoes, they are a great way to begin transitioning, and I find them comfortable for all day wear.