LifestylePlane etiquette debate: To remove shoes or not to remove shoes?

Plane etiquette debate: To remove shoes or not to remove shoes?

Taking off shoes on an airplane can elicit various reactions from fellow passengers.
Taking off shoes on an airplane can elicit various reactions from fellow passengers.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Matej Kastelic
Iwona Kołczańska

13 August 2024 18:33

Removing shoes on an airplane has sparked controversy for years. Recently, a Reddit user shared their advice on this subject, causing quite a stir. "Selfish and stupid," some internet users judged.

"Taking off your shoes on a plane is the only way to fly - at least for those like me, who are always hot. I know many people get cold on planes. Still, for some of us it's the opposite," the user wrote, citing the limited ability to regulate temperature, which forces finding alternative ways to cool down.

Controversies among passengers

The proposal to remove shoes was met with mixed reactions. Some passengers showed clear opposition, emphasizing that it may be unpleasant for other people in the cabin. "It solves your personal problem, but creates a problem for everyone around you. Selfish and stupid. What a combination," commented one user.

However, it didn't bother others, as long as the feet did not emit unpleasant odours. Some even suggested a compromise, suggesting 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. Experts from "Condé Nast Traveler" 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 through 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.

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