I found a pair of really comfortable walking shoes but they have a small gel insert in the heel area. Do you think I can pass security at the airport with them?
Posted by
Freedonia
15003 posts
If it's permanently attached,yes. If it's removal, no.
Posted by
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
368 posts
I thought this was an absurd question until I looked it up. The TSA really does not permit you to wear gel insole on an airplane...
Wow. :-)
Posted by
Dallas, Texas, USA
70 posts
Directly from the TSA website:
Gel shoe inserts - Gel shoe inserts are not permitted, but shoes constructed with gel heels are allowed and must be removed and screened. Read more on our shoe screening policy.
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#11
Posted by
Atlanta
43 posts
I had no idea they were not allowed. Were they not at one time allowed under the liquids policy? I was stopped on a Paris to Stuttgart flight because I kept setting off the metal detector. I was hand scanned and they said it was my shoes but never said anything about the inserts. (I was never stopped with them in the US but will know for next time and substitute some foam ones for my gels.) Thanks for the heads up!
Posted by
Sneads, FL
67 posts
Wow, I had no idea you couldnt have gel inserts in your shoes. On my last 3 trips to Europe I have passed through security with insoles in my shoes with no problems.
Posted by
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX, USA
251 posts
I just went in June and had stick on gel arch supports in my shoes. They were clearly visible to the screener but I never had anyone say one word about them. I knew the rule but I figured if they didn't like them they could just pull them out. It was worth it to me to try and it worked.
Posted by
Tacoma, WA, USA
671 posts
Good reminder about the rule. I thought all shoes had to be removed in the US, not just those with gel.