Flying can be stressful and uncomfortable enough as it is, and when it comes to packing the right set of clothes, passengers must think not just about style, but also about comfort. One item to be aware of is what type of footwear to bring on a plane. While there are plenty of appropriate and comfortable choices, experts advise against wearing a few shoes that may prove to be more bother than benefit.
Footwear to Avoid When Flying
Although different airports and airlines have different rules and regulations, there is a general consensus of what type of shoes should be avoided when flying. Below is a list of the footwear that experts recommend avoiding when on a plane:
High Heels: While they may add a little glamour and femininity to any outfit, high heels can be a definite hindrance and source of pain when on a plane. Lets face it, you’re probably not going to get any extra leg room just because you’re wearing high heels! Additionally, the added strain caused by the heel height puts extra stress on your feet, ankles and back and will result in general discomfort.
Heeled Boots: Similarly, heeled boots belong in the same “avoid” category as high heels. Not only do the heels carry the same issue of added discomfort if worn for extended periods of time, but the boots themselves could also be difficult to remove if the airport requires a security check.
Open-Toed Shoes: An open-toe shoe may prove to be detrimental to your hygiene as well as to your comfort. A study conducted by microbiologists found that tray tables on airplanes may contain particularly-dangerous bacteria that open-toed shoes can make you vulnerable to. Additionally, open toed shoes may cause your feet to overheat on the plane, making it even more uncomfortable on the flight.
Sandals: Similarly to open toed shoes, sandals can also cause your feet to become too hot and you to sweat more than necessary. Depending on the airline, these may additionally require you to remove them during the security check, making them an unnecessary hassle when flying.
Why Wear the Right Shoes When Flying?
When getting ready for a flight, comfort should be the primary focus. Being uncomfortable for the duration of the flight is one of the things people dread most. For that reason, one should make sure to wear shoes that are comfortable and provide adequate support during the flight.
In addition to comfort, wearing shoes that are sensible can also be a safety precaution. Shoes that adequately fasten or close the feet can provide better protection for the feet in case of turbulence. Additionally, some jets require that passengers stow away their carry-ons during take-off and landing, meaning it would be better to be wearing shoes that can be easily removed and stowed as opposed to boots or closed shoes.
Suggested Shoes to Wear When Flying
The type of shoes that one wears when taking a flight is often overlooked, but wearing the right shoes can make all the difference! There are a variety of comfortable and fashionable shoes that can work for a flight. These can range drastically depending on the duration of the flight and the airline you are flying with. The following are a few suggestions of shoes to wear while taking a plane:
Trainers or Sneakers: It goes without saying that athletic shoes are probably the most comfortable choice when it comes to taking a flight. Trainers or sneakers fit loosely, provide great support and are also easy to take off during the security check. Consider wearing fashionable pairs so that you can maintain a stylish look throughout the flight.
Foldable Ballet Flats: To add a little style to the outfit, yet maintain comfort and convenience, foldable ballet flats can be a great pick! They are easy to slip off and stow away into your bag when needed, while also providing great comfort in a very small package. Make sure to pick highly-breathable materials and designs that don’t cause chaffing.
Slip-Ons: Slip-on shoes don’t require the hassle of tying or untying shoelaces during either the security check or the flight. This makes them a great choice for convenience and comfort. Consider picking materials that provide extra cushion for the feet or uppers that breathe to prevent foot-sweating.
Shoes to Wear on Board
When deciding what type of shoe to wear for a flight, it is also important to consider another item, the flight socks. These specially-made socks can provide an extra cushion and help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition in which blood clots form in the veins. For comfort, the socks should be made of breathable and fast-drying materials.
Additionally, some airlines have begun operating barefoot sky cabins, in which passengers are allowed to go barefoot during their flight. However, it is recommended to bring a pair of flight socks just in case; this way you can ensure top-level of comfort and hygiene.
Considering the type of shoes to wear when flying can have a major impact on the comfort and even safety of your flight. It is ideal to wear shoes that are comfortable, easy to slip on and off and provide cushion for the feet. It is best advised to avoid high heels, heeled boots, open-toed shoes and sandals when taking a plane. Try to pick out shoes that are breathable, appropriately fasten up, won’t cause chaffing and most importantly, will be comfortable for the whole ride. Lastly, don’t forget to bring along a pair of flight socks to prevent DVT and keep the feet clean and dry. This way, you can enjoy your flight and look stylish at the same time!
