New business travel shoes from Julius Marlow

Nancy Sinatra once belted out that her boots were made for walking, but Julius Marlow's new O2 Motion range are made for travelling.

Available in both lace-up shoes and low cut slip-on boots, and starting at $150, Julius Marlow describes the O2 Motion series as "ultra soft leather shoes that are as comfortable as sports shoes whilst still looking fashionable."

But just what makes the O2 Motion shoes more travel-friendly compared to other footwear?

For starters, the nylon shanks and non-steel eyelets won't set off metal detectors – although Julius Marlow's claim that the O2 Motions "will keep you from the embarrassment of taking off your shoes at the airport" won't fly in US airports where removing your footwear is mandatory.

Elastic gore sidings should make it easier to remove the shoes once you're settled into your seat, and slip them back on again when you touch down, even if your feet are swollen after a long-haul flight.

Julius Marlow's marketing spiel also cites "visual air pods in the heel to reduce heel shock and provide stabilising support. Durable rubber surrounds the air pods, providing comfort and durability."

"The range is designed to be lightweight, flexible and comfortable, providing men with a footwear option that they can wear with confidence for work and play."

I'll be testing out the O2 Motion shoes on some upcoming trips this month, starting with the slip-on 'Dallas' boots.

When it comes to my own travels I'm a fan of slip-on shoes, usually Ecco or Pikolinos; fellow AusBT journalist John Walton revels in his tan zip-up boots, as seen in many AusBT flight reviews (odds-on these will make an appearance in this week's review of Virgin Atlantic's new Upper Class, which John will be covering on its London-New York media trip).

The challenge is always to get slip-on shoes which are classy enough to double as dress shoes when you're on the ground, which is where these Julius Marlow's footwear could – if you'll excuse the pun – foot the bill.

We'll report back in a few weeks. If you're keen to check out the O2 Motion range for yourself, call Julius Marlow on 1800 500 165 for details of your nearest stockist.

David Flynn

David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.