Taking off shoes on planes: Divisive travel etiquette debated
Removing shoes on an aeroplane has sparked controversy for years. Recently, a Reddit user shared their advice on this subject, causing quite a stir. "Selfish and pointless" - some internet users judged.
"Taking your shoes off on an airplane is the only way to fly. At least if you run hot like me. I know a lot of people get cold on planes, but some of us are the opposite," the user wrote, citing the limited ability to regulate temperature, which forces one to find alternative ways to cool down.
Controversies among passengers
The proposal to remove shoes was met with mixed reactions. Some passengers showed clear opposition, emphasising that it may be unpleasant for other people in the cabin. "It solves your personal problem but it creates one for every single person around you. Selfish and dumb. What a combo," commented one user.
However, it didn't bother others as long as the feet did not emit unpleasant odours. Some even suggested a compromise, recommending travelling in sandals.
How to dress for a flight?
Besides the debate about removing shoes, the discussion also included advice on appropriate attire for a flight. "Condé Nast Traveller" experts advise avoiding stiff denim clothes or old tracksuits on long journeys. They instead recommend leggings, comfortable tracksuit sets, and light, easy-to-remove footwear.
They also suggest avoiding belts and shoes with difficult-to-untie laces to make it easier to pass security checks. In summary, the key to a comfortable journey is a thoughtful choice of clothing that won’t restrict movement or cause thermal discomfort.
In the interest of shared comfort, it's certainly worth considering both your own comfort and the well-being of other passengers.
