The Top 3 Comfortable Walking Shoes for Overseas Travel

Every seasoned traveler knows that few things are as important as the shoes on your feet. From navigating cobblestone streets in Europe to trekking through the beautiful nature in Japan, the right footwear can be the difference between a memorable journey and a painful one. With so many options on the market, finding a pair that balances support, breathability, and aesthetic appeal is essential. In this guide, we break down the top three walking shoes specifically designed for the rigors of overseas travel. Whether you are exploring ancient ruins or walking miles through city parks, these top-rated picks are the ultimate companions for your next trip to Japan and other countries.

Tips for Choosing the Best Walking Shoes for Japan Travel

Why Your Footwear Choice Can Make or Break Your Japan Trip

When you travel, the last thing you want is foot or ankle pain, or even blisters, from long walks. Thus, a good pair of footwear that supports arches and heels is important for reducing stress and cushioning your feet and knees. The shoes will also absorb shocks in the heel and under the ball of your feet.

The 7 Essential Factors for Picking an Overseas Walking Shoe

• Fit: Even if the walking shoes are well-designed for comfort and durability, they must fit your feet well to maximize their benefits.
  • When wearing shoes, a good fit means there should be a finger’s width between the heel and the end of the shoe. Ensure that you can wiggle your toes, too!
  • If your feet feel cramped or bulge over the sides of the shoes, consider getting a pair of wide-fitting shoes.
  • Ensure that the shoes are suitable for your orthopaedic needs and foot shape.
• Arch Support: Understand Your Arch Type. The shoes and insoles must match your arch type.
• Cushion: Only the toe area should bend when the shoe is pushed up on the forefoot area. The arch shouldn’t bend. Moreover, wear it to see if your feet feel supported.
• Traction: The shoes should grip the surface properly.
• Take terrain into account: Road shoes feature cushioning designed to absorb shock from harsh surfaces and durable rubber to withstand abrasion. Trail shoes have lugs on the outsole to add traction on uneven surfaces.
• Check for removable insoles: A great feature if you want to add custom orthotic insoles to a shoe.

The Best Walking Shoes for Japan

If you are after comfortable walking shoes for long-distance walking, read on for our our recommendation for the best shoes to wear in Japan. No matter which country you visit, we are confident that the shoes we introduce in this article are the most comfortable shoes.

The Top Three Walking Shoes for a Japan and Overseas Trip

In addition to the brands we will discuss in more detail in this article, other brands that are highly regarded for hiking and long walks include:

• Merrell has great, heavy-duty shoes, albeit they are usually heavier. The company excels at crafting well-padded walking and hiking boots/shoes, offering a wide range of wide-fit shoes.
• Keen offers great all-rounder shoes that are great for long walks.
• Allbirds are great for casual walking shoes.
• On is most known for its CloudTec cushioning, made with lightweight EVA foam.
  • We especially recommend the On Cloud series for everyday walking and running.
• Frankie4s offers comfortable and stylish women’s footwear that is also good for foot health (i.e. prevent and relieve heel, arch, and forefoot pain, as well as plantar fasciitis).

^{Please note that we receive a small commission from Amazon for any referred sales.}

Top 3 Walking Shoes for Overseas Travel: A Comparison

Brand	Series Pick	Best For…	Key Feature
Hoka	Bondi Series	High-arch support & wide feet	Superior plush cushioning
Brooks	Ghost Series	Neutral arch & versatility	Smooth transitions & breathability
Salomon	X Ultra Series	Hiking & rough pavements	Exceptional durability & traction

Why These Three Brands Rank Top for Walking All Day in Japan

1. Hoka: The Cushioning King

Hoka is the go-to brand for travelers who prioritize shock absorption. Their signature plush midsoles make them a favorite for long shifts and even longer sightseeing days.

• Top Choice: The Bondi Series is perfect if you have high arches or need extra room, offering a “cloud-like” feel that protects your knees and joints.
• Best for Japan: Walking through the vast temple grounds of Kyoto or the urban sprawl of Tokyo.

2. Brooks: The Stability Expert

Brooks is highly recommended by podiatrists for its biomechanical design and variety of widths, making it ideal for those who find standard shoes too narrow.

• Top Choice: The Ghost Series is a “do-it-all” shoe. It provides neutral support and excellent ventilation, keeping your feet cool during humid summer travel.
• Best for Japan: Navigating the flat, paved streets of Osaka or the historical districts of Kurashiki.

3. Salomon: The Rugged Specialist

For travelers moving beyond city centers into nature or rainy coastal areas, Salomon offers unmatched protection and grip.

• Top Choice: The X Ultra Series provides the stability of a hiking boot with the weight of a sneaker. Its Gore-Tex options are essential for keeping feet dry on rainy days.
• Best for Japan: Climbing to the “Castle in the Sky” (Bitchū Matsuyama Castle) or walking the potentially wet trails in Kamikochi.

Choosing the Right Fit: Hoka vs. Brooks vs. Salomon

While all three brands are top-rated for comfort, they each have a distinct “foot feel” and sizing philosophy. Use this guide to match your foot shape to the right brand.

1. The Width & Toe Box Comparison

• Brooks (Best for Specific Widths): Brooks is the industry leader for travelers with very narrow or very wide feet. They offer a massive range of Narrow (2A), Wide (D), and Extra Wide (EE) options.
  • Note: The toe box tends to be a bit more traditional and snug, so if you have bunions, opt for their wide-width models.
• Hoka (Best for “Plush” Volume): Hoka shoes generally have a higher “stack height” (more foam), which can make the shoe feel roomier overall. Their Bondi Series is particularly famous for its generous internal volume.
• Salomon (Best for a “Locked-In” Feel): Salomon typically has a narrower, more athletic fit. This is intentional to prevent your foot from sliding on uneven trails, but it can feel tight for casual walking.
  • Pro-Tip: Always look for the “Wide” version of the X Ultra series if you plan on wearing hiking socks.

2. Arch Support & Foot Type

• High Arches? Go with Hoka. The rocker-bottom sole and deep cushioning cradle high arches, reducing pressure on the ball of the foot.
• Flat Feet? Go with Brooks. Their “GTS” (Go-To-Support) technology uses GuideRails to keep your feet in a neutral position, preventing the overpronation that often causes travel fatigue.
• Neutral Feet? Go with Salomon. Their chassis system provides a stable base that doesn’t over-correct your stride, making them perfect for varying terrains from city pavement to forest paths.

3. The “Lacing” Convenience

• Salomon’s Quicklace™: This is a game-changer for traveling in Japan. You can tighten or loosen your shoes with one pull, and there are no laces to trip on. It makes the constant “shoes off” transition at temples and traditional restaurants much faster.
• Brooks & Hoka: Both use traditional laces, which allow for more “zonal” tightening (e.g., keeping the heel tight while leaving the toes loose).

Quick-Glance: Which Travel Shoe is Right for You?

Brand & Model	Best For…	Foot Type	Key Travel Benefit
Hoka Bondi 9	Maximum Cushioning	High arches / Wide or rigid feet needing extreme shock absorption	“Cloud-like” shock absorption for hard pavement over 20,000+ step city days.
Hoka Arahi 8	Lightweight Stability	Flat feet or runners who overpronate	H-Frame stability technology prevents foot and ankle roll when legs tire on cobblestones and tour days
Hoka Clifton 11	The “Daily Driver”	Neutral arches	Balanced, light, and smooth for all-day city walks.
Brooks Ghost 18	The Neutral Workhorse	Neutral / Heel strike	Daily trainer that seamlessly shifts from airport terminals to morning road runs
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25	Support & Stability	Mild to moderate overpronators, low arches, or weak ankles	GuideRails® technology to prevent ankle/knee fatigue.
Brooks Glycerin 23	Premium Plushness	Neutral to high arches looking for plush nitrogen-infused foam	Nitrogen-infused foam for a luxury “mattress” feel.
Salomon X Ultra 5	Technical trail hiking, daypack trekking, and rugged terrain exploration	Neutral / High Arch	Advanced Chassis stability and waterproof Matryx upper protect against sharp rocks, scree, and rain
Salomon Speedcross 6	Technical Grip	Wide Options	5mm lugs for mud, loose gravel, and steep forest trails.
Salomon Genesis 2	The Trail Hybrid	Wide / Neutral	Durable Matryx® upper that stays looking new longer.

Quick Recommendation

• For Max Pavement Comfort: Choose the HOKA Bondi 9 or Brooks Glycerin 23.
• For Pronation & Joint Support: Go with the HOKA Arahi 8 or Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25.
• For Rough Trails & Hiking: Pick the Salomon X Ultra 5 (rugged hiking) or Salomon Genesis 2 (agile trail running).

Hoka: Maximum Cushioning for High-Volume Sightseeing in Japan

Exceptional Cushioning That Appeals to a Wide Range of Foot Types and Ages, Lightweight, Superior Support, Slip-Resistant, and Design Variety

Hoka is the brand we often opt for when it comes to long trails. The shoes are exceptionally lightweight, though they offer plush cushioning. But this doesn’t mean that the shoes’ stability is compromised. In fact, Hoka shoes provide remarkable shock absorption, reducing the strain on the feet and joints. Your feet will be well-supported, even when walking on uneven surfaces.

Moreover, the brand offers a variety of designs that cater to a wide range of preferences, allowing you to express individual styles in comfort. 

Founded in 2009 in France, Hoka is a leading shoe brand recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association. The company’s products have been reviewed by APMA’s podiatrists to ensure that they promote foot health. Engineered to provide superior support for your feet, most people find Hoka’s shoes comfortable to wear for long walks.

If you work on the front line of the healthcare industry, you might also consider buying a pair of Hoka shoes. The brand is loved by nurses and clinical staff whose work requires physical strength and endurance. Hoka’s comfortable shoes can also help reduce fatigue from long shifts on foot!

Hoka Arahi Series: Long runs and Flatter feet

Most testers find the Arahi surprisingly sleek and agile compared to typical stability trainers. You can expect a secure midfoot wrap with zero pinching or awkward arch intrusion. Blisters, rubbing, or foot sliding are unlikely thanks to the refined flat-knit upper and dual-sided tongue gusset. Furthermore, due to its stabilizing foundation, your ankles and knees won’t tire out as quickly over long distances.

The best news is that the breathable knit upper keeps air flowing constantly so your feet stay cool under pressure!

• Hoka Arahi 8 Best For: Walkers and runners needing moderate overpronation support, travelers with flat arches, and long urban treks.
• Key Materials: Zoned flat-knit breathable upper, soft EVA foam midsole, and supportive high-density J-Frame™ rubberized foam base.
• The Travel Advantage: HOKA’s J-Frame™ design acts like a subtle guardrail, preventing your foot from rolling inward as your muscles fatigue without forcing an unnatural stride. This makes a massive difference when you’re standing for hours or navigating uneven cobblestones and stairs on travel days.
• Performance Review: During testing on flat but hard-packed surfaces in Osaka’s Umeda district, the Arahi provided incredible structure underfoot while remaining delightfully lightweight. The secure upper lock kept our feet firmly in place, and the supportive base kept fatigue from setting into our calves and arches through thousands of daily steps.
• Verdict: The premier option for anyone who needs dedicated arch and pronation support wrapped in a light, protective, and comfortable package.

Hoka Bondi Series: Superior cushioning and Good for wide feet

The Bondi series is known for its comfort, and the Bondi 9 elevates that experience with a 43 mm stack height and a lighter, bouncier supercritical EVA foam midsole. If you need maximum impact relief, the Bondi 9 is an ideal choice thanks to its softer footbed and smooth, natural rolling ride. Furthermore, the shoes work well for flat feet if you want a neutral, max-cushioned shoe with its wide base and Rearfoot-Focused Active Foot Frame offer soft, stable support for low arches. Bondi 9 is also great for those who suffer from joint fatigue, plantar pressure, or standing for long hours on unforgiving concrete surfaces.

• Hoka Bondi 9 Best For: High-mileage walking, all-day standing work, and travelers seeking maximum cushion and joint protection.
• Key Materials: Structured 55% recycled knit upper, plush padded ankle collar, and a bouncy supercritical EVA foam midsole with Active Foot Frame™ support.
• The Travel Advantage: The ultra-cushioned 43 mm stack combined with HOKA’s Active Foot Frame™ cradles your foot deep within the midsole. This delivers a stable, cloud-like ride that absorbs harsh pavement shock, essential when logging 20,000+ steps on the hard pavement of Tokyo or Osaka.
• Performance Review: During our testing across the vast, gravel-heavy grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Bondi 9 felt like “walking on clouds.” The breathable mesh kept our feet from overheating in the afternoon sun, and the wide base offered incredible stability even when our legs began to feel the “travel fatigue” of a 14-day itinerary.
• Verdict: The best choice for travelers who prioritize maximum shock absorption and want to end a long day without aching feet.

Hoka Clifton Series: Long walks

Compared to the Hoka Bondi, the Clifton is lighter and has a lower stack height. It is also more flexible and suitable for long and easy runs.

If you’re looking for a smooth, effortless glide on every stride, the Clifton 11 is an outstanding choice thanks to its refined engineered mesh upper and plush, cloud-like step-in feel. The shoe is ideal for travelers who needs consistent impact protection for long daily walks or standing on hard surfaces all day. The best news is that the newly upgraded upper mesh maximizes airflow to keep your feet cool and dry in warmer weather!

Most people find the Clifton 11 exceptionally comfortable right out of the box. You can expect a gentle, snug midfoot hold with zero break-in period required. Sore spots, heel slipping, and midfoot irritation are non-issues thanks to the redesigned plush sockliner and padded heel collar. Plus, the signature rockered geometry absorbs harsh impacts so your feet, ankles, and knees feel fresh even after hours on your feet.

• Hoka Clifton 9 Best For: Neutral runners/walkers, long city tours, and those who want a “do-it-all” travel sneaker.
• Key Materials: Breathable engineered mesh upper, plush sockliner, molded EVA foam midsole, and strategic durabrasion rubber outsole.
• The Travel Advantage: The Clifton strikes the perfect balance between weight and protection. It is significantly lighter than the Bondi but still features Hoka’s signature “meta-rocker” geometry, which helps propel you forward as you walk, reducing fatigue on your calves and feet when navigating endless city streets, airport terminals, or historic cobbles.
• Performance Review: During our testing in the sprawling Hakata district of Fukuoka, the Clifton 11 delivered a remarkably light yet protective ride. The upgraded mesh upper held the foot securely without squeezing, and the plush underfoot foam cushioned every footstrike, making 15,000-step days feel completely effortless.
• Verdict: The ultimate choice for travelers and daily walkers who want a lightweight, ultra-comfortable trainer that keeps feet energized from morning to night.

Brooks: Superior Stability and Custom Width Options

Outstanding Breathability, Wider Range of Widths, Relatively Inexpensive, Excellent Stability

The best choice for individuals with flat feet who need extra stability and support is Brooks. It is another brand recommended by Podiatrists. The shoemaker also has a wider range of widths. With narrow, wide, and extra-wide shoes on offer, the brand is also recommended for those who find regular-sized shoes uncomfortable. But note that Brooks tend to have narrower toe boxes. If you have a wider foot or toe deformity, try on the shoes first to determine which width best fits your feet.

Brooks usually has a more traditional look than Hoka. But don’t be deceived by their ordinary look. Brooks is one of the top biomechanical shoes you could come across! Some even said they feel like a part of them when worn.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS: Specialized Support for Overpronation

Furthermore, due to its balanced shock absorption and gentle alignment support, your knees, hips, and lower back won’t feel as drained after a long day on your feet. The best news is that the newly refined upper wrap offers breathable comfort while keeping your foot locked in securely on every step!

• Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 Best For: Travelers with flat feet, overpronation, or high-step travel itineraries, and anyone needing reliable, unobtrusive alignment support.
• Key Materials: Soft engineered mesh upper, supportive heel counter, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam midsole, and holistic GuideRails® support technology.
• The Travel Advantage: The GuideRails® system is like having training wheels for your feet. Instead of forcing your foot into a specific position, it only intervenes when your stride shifts out of its natural path, perfect for when your form starts to break down after a 20,000-step day in Osaka.
• Performance Review: During our testing in Okayama‘s humid summer heat, the ventilation stood out as the standout feature. The sizable holes in the mesh upper kept our feet dry and cool. The wider base provided a very stable platform when navigating the crowded stairs and platforms of major Japanese transit hubs.
• Verdict: The ultimate Go-To Shoe for travelers and runners who prioritize smooth alignment, plush underfoot comfort, and all-day joint protection.

Brooks Ghost: The Versatile “Do-It-All” Shoe for Neutral Arches

Sore spots and lace pressure are kept at bay by Ghost 18’s plush flat-knit tongue and soft OrthoLite X-60 sockliner. Furthermore, due to its well-balanced cushioning and Segmented Crash Pad base, your legs stay protected without ever feeling like you’re sinking into soft foam.

Just note that because the Ghost series is particularly suitable for heel strikers. This means that it probably won’t be ideal for mid-to-forefoot strikers as the forefoot cushioning is less than that of average running shoes.

• Brooks Ghost 18 Best For: High-mileage days (20,000+ steps) and travelers with arch pain.
• Key Materials: Triple-jacquard engineered air mesh upper, flat-knit tongue, OrthoLite X-60 sockliner, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam midsole, and Segmented Crash Pad rubber outsole.
• The Travel Advantage: While technically a running shoe, the Ghost 18 offers the neutral support needed for steep climbs like the hike to Bitchū Matsuyama Castle.
• Performance Review: We found the crash pad in the heel reduced leg fatigue significantly during a full day in Himeji. It handles asphalt and temple gravel with equal stability.
• Verdict: If your itinerary is packed with walking, your feet will thank you for the extra cushioning.

Brooks Glycerin Series: Corrective shoes and Long runs

Consider the Brooks Glycerin series for a pair of extremely comfortable shoes that can push the limits over long distances. The Glycerin provides a truly adaptable fit, with plenty of room in the toe box. The long lacing helps keep the foot securely in place with the ankle locked properly. The outsole offers incredible grip on wet floors and light trail paths.

Please note that the sock-like upper may not fit everyone. If the shoe is too tight or loose, go for the standard Glycerin.

• Brooks Glycerin 23 Best For: Travelers who prioritize a plush, soft feel, those with neutral arches, and those covering long distances on hard pavement.
• Key Materials: Triple-jacquard warp-knit upper, padded heel collar, DNA TUNED nitrogen-infused foam midsole, and durable RoadTack rubber outsole.
• The Travel Advantage: The Glycerin features a wider platform than many standard walking shoes, which provides a stable, “planted” feel when navigating crowded Japanese transit hubs. If you opt for the StealthFit version, the sock-like upper makes it incredibly easy to slip on and off—a major plus for visiting temples or traditional tatami restaurants.
• Performance Review: During our testing on the historic, stone-paved streets of Kanazawa, the “plush” transitions were the standout feature. The nitrogen-infused foam is remarkably responsive; it doesn’t just sink, it “nudges” your foot into the next step. Even after 10 hours of exploring, the heel padding prevented any friction or blisters, and the outsole provided a confident grip on rain-slicked surfaces.
• Verdict: The most luxurious ride in the Brooks family; it is the ultimate “recovery” shoe that keeps your legs feeling fresh day after day.

Salomon: Rugged Durability for Trails and Rainy Weather

Exceptional Durability, Lightweight, Grip, Long Hikes, and Gore-Tex

Salomon is another brand we love for comfortable travel walking shoes that are suitable for rainy days, long walks, and rough pavements. Many experienced backpackers love Salomon for its comfort. Many of Salomon’s trail shoes are designed for rocky, mountainous terrain and offer ample cushioning.

Furthermore, it is another brand recommended by those working in the physical therapy field.

However, if you have a wide foot, remember to opt for their wider-width model, as Salomon’s fit can be narrow, depending on the series.

Salomon Speedcross series: Exceptional traction, supportive with arch support and a wide shoe box

The Speedcross series is one of Salomon’s top-sellers. The Speedcross 6 is renowned for its arch support feature and is particularly suitable for individuals with wider feet. The shoes are lightweight and comfortable, making them ideal for everyday use or running on trails. These shoes feature a sticky grip that allows you to wear them on rough surfaces. Your steps are grounded when walking through mud and creeks.

Like many other Salomon shoes, the Speedcross 6 features a Quicklace system that makes it easy to get your foot into the shoe. The laces won’t come your way when kept in the lace pocket.

Please note that while the Speedcross 6 is great for cold weather, you wouldn’t want to wear it on a hot summer day. The shoe’s breathability isn’t its strength. Furthermore, these shoes wouldn’t suit midfoot to forefoot strikers either.

• Salomon Speedcross 6 Best For: Trail running, steep mountain temple hikes, and navigating mud or loose gravel.
• Key Materials: Recycled material upper with anti-debris mesh and a high-traction Mud Contagrip® outsole with 5mm deep lugs.
• The Travel Advantage: The Quicklace™ system is paired here with a dedicated lace pocket, ensuring that your laces never snag on roots or undergrowth. The “Anti-Debris Mesh” is a functional travel hero. It prevents tiny stones and sand from entering the shoe, which is a common annoyance when walking the gravel paths of places.
• Performance Review: During our testing on the damp, root-covered trails between Kurama and Kibune in Kyoto, the Speedcross 6 provided incredible “bite.” While other sneakers slipped on the wet leaves, these stayed grounded. The “Anti-Debris Mesh” is a functional travel hero. It prevents tiny stones and sand from entering the shoe, which is a common annoyance when walking on gravel paths or beaches of places like Amanohashidate.
• Verdict: The ultimate choice for the adventurous traveler; it’s a rugged, high-performance tool that handles the “wilder” side of Japan with ease.

Salomon X Ultra series: Supportive shoe for backcountry hiking adventures

If you plan to hike during your trip, consider getting a pair of shoes from Salomon X Ultra series. The series is one of the top favorite among hikers. The X Ultra offers an exceptional blend of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for a wide range of purposes. The shoe’s high stability and support can handle moderate to challenging terrain. It has proper underfoot support, durable traction, and usually fits comfortably. Those with a high arch would find these shoes comfortable to wear as well.

You might think the Gore-Tex feature means that the foot can get hot and/or the wet foot can get stuck inside the shoe. However, this assumption isn’t true based on the many positive feedbacks!

The drawback is that the width remains narrower than that of other models. Also, try not to wear low-cut socks as the extended heel tab can rub.

• Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex Best For: Rainy coastal walks, uneven temple paths, and light mountain hiking.
• Key Materials: Abrasion-resistant Matryx® woven upper, waterproof GORE-TEX membrane, EnergyCell™ EVA midsole, and All-Terrain Contagrip® rubber outsole.
• The Travel Advantage: The Quicklace™ system is a “Japan travel hack.” It allows you to tighten or loosen your shoes with one pull, making the frequent “shoes-off” transitions at temples and ryokans incredibly fast and hassle-free.
• Performance Review: During our testing in the misty, damp terrain of Oirase Gorge and the steep ascent to Takeda Castle, the stability was unmatched. The “Active Support” wings kept our ankles secure on loose gravel, and the Gore-Tex kept our feet completely dry even during a sudden afternoon downpour.
• Verdict: The ultimate choice for adventurous travelers and hikers who prioritize maximum trail stability, bulletproof durability, and top-tier grip over soft pavement cushioning.

Salomon Genesis: Versatile Grip for Short Runs and Mixed Surfaces

The series is best known for its versatility. Genesis’s 4.5mm lugs grip and transition well on many surfaces. These shoes can handle snow and thick mud terrain. Compared to many other Salomon’s models, the shoe’s Energy Foam is lighter, softer, and more accommodating. With 4.5mm lugs, these shoes provide excellent grip on all surfaces, including snow and ice. Additionally, these shoes feature a design that protects your toes from bumping into hard surfaces. It also has a quick lace system. The quick lace will secure your foot into the right position with minimal effort!

The last thing to note is that some users may find the Genesis ‘pinchy’ at the toe box. Try on the shoes and walk downhill to see if your toes scrunch.

• Salomon Genesis Best For: Mixed terrain (pavement to light trail), travelers with slightly wider feet, and those who prioritize a “natural” foot feel.
• Key Materials: Woven Matryx® textile upper with Kevlar yarns, EndoFit™ internal sleeve, Quicklace® closure, livelier OptiFOAM midsole with Active Chassis™, and All-Terrain Contagrip® rubber outsole.
• The Travel Advantage: The Matryx® upper is a game-changer for international trips. It is a weave of synthetic fibers that is nearly impossible to tear on sharp rocks or temple steps, yet it’s incredibly lightweight. This means the shoe stays looking “new” much longer than traditional mesh sneakers, even after weeks of heavy use.
• Performance Review: During our testing in the varied landscapes of the Aomori region, the Genesis was the standout for “all-day comfort.” The Energy Foam is softer and more “bouncy” than the X Ultra, which we found much more comfortable for the long walk through the forest paths in Hakkoda Mountains. The 4.5mm lugs provided enough grip on muddy sections without feeling “clunky” when we transitioned back to the city’s paved streets.
• Verdict: The ultimate choice for adventurous runners and hikers who want a tough-as-nails, grounded, and precise technical shoe that excels whenever the pavement ends.

The Top Three Best Walking Shoes for an Overseas Trip FAQ

What are the best walking shoes for a trip to Japan?

The top three recommended brands for a Japan trip are Hoka, Brooks, and Salomon. Hoka is best for maximum cushioning on paved city streets, Brooks offers excellent stability for various foot widths, and Salomon provides the best traction and durability for rainy weather and mountain trails.

How many steps would I take a day when travelling overseas?

Most travelers easily exceed 20,000 steps per day when exploring Japan. It is essential to wear supportive footwear that cushions the heel and supports the arch to prevent foot fatigue and blisters.

Are Hoka shoes good for wide feet?

Yes, Hoka’s Bondi series is specifically highly regarded for individuals with wider feet or high arches. They offer superior cushioning and a roomy interior that prevents chafing during long sightseeing days.

Should I choose Brooks or Salomon for flat feet?

Brooks is generally the better choice for individuals with flat feet. Models like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS feature specialised stability technology (GuideRails) that help keep the foot in a neutral position and prevent overpronation.

Are Salomon shoes waterproof for rainy travel days?

Many Salomon models, such as the X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex, feature a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane. This makes them an exceptional choice for maintaining dry feet during rainy seasons or when walking through wet, uneven terrain.

Tips for Planning Your Next Japan Trip