Can anybody recommend a pair of mens shoes that will pack down super small? Travelling with hand baggage I often find myself wearing the same dress shoes for 3 days straight, and I'm sure someone must make some trainers that will squash down to minimal size. No need for them to be performance - just so I can take a stroll

Any ideas?

Old-style Converse maybe? I keep a pair or well-soled water shoes in my GHB. They're pretty small but the rubber makes them heavier than a converse-style shoe.

Had a similar thought: old style/classic "Keds" sneaker in the low cut style. Will crush down small, but still be good for walking etc.

I'm of the generation that grew up in sneakers, the basic simple canvas and thing rubber soles. Should work for you.

Sperry Topsider or clone?

Thanks guys - Cons might be the solution.

Izzy - my dress shoes are pretty comfy, but I just find it nice to change them , and if I get to wear shorts or hit the gym even my sense of the aesthetic gets a bit offended by black leather lace ups :-)

Birkenstocks and Tevas do it!

Birks and Tevas would be great! Especially in the heat. More support in Birks that old-style runners.

Even a fairly stout show that doesn't fold up well will occupy minimum space if you fill the interior with small stuff you are planning to carry along - socks, handkerchiefs, lip balm, etc.

Not sure what you are using them for, sedentary or active, but Sanuks are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. I wear the Hey Jutes

You might consider any of the versions of the Japanese tabi sock/boot.

In its simplest and lightest form you get a cotton canvas form-fitted sock that is split to alloy you to slip on sandals over. The tabi socks I used had a double layer of canvas on the bottom and were suitable for padding around the house or airport.

There is also the jika-tabi which is a heavier version of the tabi but with a thinnish, but tough, rubber sole that is intended for outdoor wear. They are apparently quite popular with farmers and many construction workers.

jika-tabi can be anything from a form-fitted slipper suitable for going out to get he morning paper to very heavy units which pretty much have the same protective properties as a heavy work boot.

These are also marketed to westerners as 'ninja boots' and are sold at martial arts schools.

All of these are light weight, and fold into a compact package.