Good news for everyone who dreaded going through security checks: it is now possible to keep your shoes on during checks at certain airports in this great country! No more ballet of passengers in socks and the acrobatics of hastily retightening your laces, a step forward that will delight all rushed travelers who care about comfort.
Great news for all air travelers tired of juggling their laces in crowded airport lines! Starting July 10, 2025, you will be able to keep your shoes on during security checks at American airports. This advancement, made possible by the modernization of security, promises to transform the boarding experience and make it much more pleasant. In this article, find out why this measure is being implemented, what it concretely means for your next trip, and some tips on how to choose your shoes for flying… or for exploring your destination right after leaving the terminal.
A revolution in airport security
Since July 10, 2025, passengers departing from airports in New York, Los Angeles, or other major American hubs are rejoicing: the era of having to remove shoes, wedged between the plastic bin and the fatigue of an early morning flight, is over! This measure, announced by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, aims to streamline checks while ensuring security. Thanks to innovative technological advancements, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) is deploying devices capable of detecting potential threats without you having to remove your sneakers, boots, or heels.
Why did this rule exist?
Let’s go back a few years. It was in August 2006 that wearing shoes became suspect, following a foiled bombing attempt where explosives were hidden… under a passenger’s feet. Since then, except for a few exceptions for children or seniors, everyone had to perform the little dance of shoe removal at every boarding. In Europe, the rule has varied depending on the technology of the scanners installed and, at times, the type of shoes: small trainers allowed, but platform soles mandatory in the removal zone! For those still looking for the ideal pair for worry-free travel, useful advice is available to choose the perfect shoe.
Modernized checks, relaxed passengers
The real miracle is the time and comfort gained: no more bending down, picking up scattered socks, or participating in the shoe bin lottery. The priority remains security, but it becomes significantly more discreet and less intrusive. The TSA promises that these new scanners ensure the same effectiveness as before, with improved flow for the security lines. Some American airports are already benefiting from this new equipment, awaiting widespread implementation across the country. Will the lines finally shorten? This is the bet of this technological reform, which will undoubtedly boost the morale of rushed travelers or large families.
Will it soon be adopted in all airports?
If the initiative currently only concerns certain major airports, it should, according to the TSA, be quickly adopted nationwide. This could inspire other global destinations to opt for less burdensome and more effective checks. Will these technological advancements signal the end of involuntary stripteases at security? For those already planning their next round-the-world trip — from the Creole trail in Guadeloupe to the forests of Palawan — this little revolution comes at just the right time.
How to choose your shoes for traveling?
Although going through security is set to be simplified, it is never unnecessary to opt for comfortable and versatile shoes. For outdoor enthusiasts, it is better to choose suitable walking models that are durable yet easy to wear in all situations. Those exploring secret cities, like a hidden village in Marseille, will also appreciate being able to leave the terminal ready for adventure, without having to stop to put their shoes back on.
A reimagined airport experience
Less stress, more speed, and goodbye to endless waiting lines at the scanners: keeping your shoes on during checks symbolizes a modernized travel experience. Innovation in security serves comfort, so that every flight starts off with a small step towards vacation… without even needing to remove your shoes!
