The first thing you notice when you slip these on is how ridiculously comfortable they are. For the specific task of a long flight, it’s one of the best shoes you can own. The merino wool feels amazing and handles temperature swings like magic—warm enough in a cold cabin, breathable enough in a hot terminal. The clean look is a huge plus, too, as it blends in far better than bulky athletic sneakers. Here’s the deal, though: that comfort is shallow. The insole is thin and offers very little arch support—something I hear over and over from travelers. After a few hours of walking on hard city pavement, especially uneven surfaces like cobblestones, the lack of structure becomes apparent and foot fatigue sets in. But the absolute deal-breaker, the critical flaw every traveler must know, is its relationship with water. It is a sponge. A single, unexpected rain shower will leave you with squelching, heavy, and cold shoes that sideline them for the next day of your trip.