Flying regularly can be exciting when you're discovering new destinations and earning money while traveling. Though a flight attendant's job comes with perks, it also requires a lot of standing and schlepping carry-on bags through the concourse.
The type of footwear you wear for this type of work is important, especially if you stand for long hours on international flights and walk long distances from gate to gate. What you wear at the airport will likely differ from the uniform you wear inside the airplane, so comfort is crucial while on the clock.
With a job that requires customer service and addressing emergencies, flight attendants need footwear that promotes comfort, functionality and mobility. In fact, a 2024 study in California found that flight attendants will complete all their duties despite discomfort while complying with the airline's image standards.
To get you ready for take off, we spoke with three experts who are always on duty when flying, as well as a veteran for all things traveling, footwear and tips when serving passengers.
What shoes are flight attendants required to wear?
"The shoe you wear to the airport is different from the pair you wear when you get to the airplane. The reason behind this practice is the idea that your heel can mess up the carpet," says ex-VVIP private jet flight attendant, Danielle Styron.
Sytron recommends comfort and functionality when it comes to choosing the right shoe and says to opt for leather material, since it lasts longer and doesn't scratch, plus a soft shoe for the airplane.
"Flight attendants need comfortable shoes and something you will not sprain your ankle if there is turbulence," she adds.
"Most airlines are very selective about the shoes we wear. They usually have to be closed-toe, polished, a neutral color, (black or navy in most cases) and simply styled. For women, heels can’t be above a certain height, and they can’t be too flat. In most cases, flight attendants can switch to more comfortable shoes once on the plane for service," explains flight attendant Sean McFarlane.
Also, shoes must be free of logos and designs, preferably leather-like or patent-made.
"In the winter months, a leather-boot-style shoe may be worn to and from the aircraft," shares flight attendant Mallorie Hammond. If pants are part of your uniform, "you can choose a shoe with a heel of at least 1/4 inch up to 3 inches."
However, she continues, "If you choose the dress option, you have to choose a shoe with a heel height of at least 1 inch up to 3 inches. After take-off, we can change into what we call our in-flight shoes, and those can be a simple, classic-style shoe."
However, each airline has different rules in regards to footwear guidelines, says Styron.
Best shoes for flight attendants, according to experts
Shoes for women
All-day essential: Nike Cortez 23 Premium Leather
- Very comfortable
- Stylish
- Can run small
Sizes: 5-9 | Colors: 13 | Material: Leather | Good for: Traveling (after work)
While these are not necessarily part of a flight attendant uniform, Sytron suggests packing a pair of white sneakers when you travel because they are versatile and casual. The pair has a soft leather that doesn't crease and a sleek design that pairs well with most laid-back pieces. And if you're done with the chunky era, this is a soft jumpstart to the slim sneaker trend.
First class calls: Clarks Freva 55 Court
- Comfortable heel
- Soft leather
- They run narrow
Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 3 | Material: Leather | Good for: During flights and between flights
Hammond recommends comfort all the way and says she loves this pair. "If choosing a higher heel option, I like to look for shoes with thicker heels [like this one]. Those tend to be more comfortable." They have a block heel and are made from a soft leather that is easy to move around.
Handle turbulence: Rothy's The Flat
- They are washable
- Feel comfortable
- Get dirty quick
Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 9 | Material: Knit | Good for: During flights
These Rothy's flats are great because "You can go to dinner or explore the city, since they are washable and can be folded," says Styron. This pair is a favorite among Shop TODAY editors because they are easy to remove and easy to clean. Plus, they come in multiple colors and sizes, and removable insoles that you can wash.
First in flight: Clarks Krystine Lily
- Comfortable footbed
- Great quality
- Toe box can be narrow
Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 3 | Material: Leather | Good for: During flights and between flights
Hammon recommends this pair as an in-flight option since it has a shorter heel, but it still looks elegant. The timeless design can take you from first class to the concourse comfortably. It features the brand's Contour Cushion technology that delivers underfoot traction and feels flexible.
Shoes for men
Classic service: Bruno Marc Slip On Dress Loafers
- Feels comfortable
- Great fit
- Leather can peel off
Sizes: 6.5-15 | Colors: 3 | Material: Vegan leather | Good for: During flights and between flights
McFarlane says he usually buys on Amazon for all his work shoes. This pair from Bruno Marc is comfortable, and a shopper noted that these are a great deal if you need something luxurious and without the hefty price tag.
Luxury business: SVNKE Slip-On Loafer
- Very light
- Easy to slip on
- Snug fit
Sizes: 7-15 | Colors: 5 | Material: Polyurethane | Good for: During flights and between flights
This slip-on style is great for men and comes in a durable material that will avoid discomfort and blisters. McFarlane recommends this pair for its elegant aesthetic and high-quality material. One shopper said this pair of top-notch for the price and very versatile for many occasions.
Ready for altitude: Cole Haan Grand Atlantic Oxford
- Has arch support
- Very comfortble
- Fits true to size
Sizes: 7-13 | Colors: 7 | Material: Leather and EVA | Good for: During flights and between flights
Curtis says that "shoes must be solid black with no branding, and have solid black soles." So, he opts for this pair when flying for its stylish and comfortable design. They feature arch support and are made with an EVA sole that's ideal for most weather conditions. "Most days we are on our feet for an average of 8 to 12 hours a day," he says.
Frequently asked questions
Comfort is the main concern. "If choosing a higher heel option, I like to look for shoes with thicker heels. Those tend to be more comfortable. I also look for shoes with memory foam soles for added comfort. We are on our feet for most of our duty days so finding the right shoe is very important," shares Hammond.
As for McFarlane, a professional loafer without laces is the best option. "It can be a challenge to find dress shoes that align with company standards while seeking comfort, but purchasing separate insoles are a huge help. We are on our feet for 8 to 14 (sometimes more) hours a day working, walking through airports, " he adds.
Aside from your in-flight shoes, experts recommend you pack other pairs for your layover. Sytron recommends packing a pair of flats, kitten heels for a night out and white sneakers for casual outings.
"The type of shoe I usually choose for work is comfortable enough to not need an in-flight change of shoes when doing service. Any shoes I pack other than the work shoes I wear are usually for my layover," says McFarlane.
How we chose
Our flight attendants shared the best footwear choices and what to wear when getting through airport security and traveling. In addition, they shared specific features to look for in shoes and what to consider when working long hours while standing.
Meet the experts
- Justin Curtis is a U.S.-based international flight attendant for a commercial airline.
- Sean McFarlane is a flight attendant for a commercial airline.
- Mallorie Hammond is a flight attendant for United Airlines who has been flying the friendly skies for 13 years. When she is not working, you’ll still find her on a plane traveling with her husband and two kids.
- Danielle Styron is an ex-VVIP private jet flight attendant and co-author of "The Mile High Club: Confessions of a Private Jet Flight Attendant," which will be available in July.
