Listen to your feet when it comes to slip-on shoes.
Actually, that’s the advice for any type of shoes — though especially for exercise — according to Dr. A. Holly Johnson, an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. “A lot of finding the right shoes is intuitive,” Johnson says. “If a shoe feels comfortable when you try it on, it’s probably OK for your feet.”
The inverse is also true, she says: Don’t expect a tight or uncomfortable shoe to grow less so over time. This is particularly true for the kind of slip-on footwear appropriate for low-impact athletic use that seems to be popping up everywhere.
“There have been some developments in that area that have changed an age-old category,” Williams continues. To wit, both Kizik and Skechers now have a structured heel cage that compresses and re-forms to the foot.
Those two are not alone in the category. Every retailer from Adidas to Zappos has a foot in the game, which makes figuring out which option is best even tougher. “What people want most with this type of shoe is the ease of putting it on and taking it off,” says Ann Williams, an?independent shoe designer at Schwilliamz?Creative Consultants in?Wellesley,?Massachusetts, but that can’t come at the price of fit. “For manufacturers, the inclination is to prioritize the ease of use, which seldom translates to the right sizing. It’s important that slip-ons are not too big, which forces you to clench your toes to keep your heel from sliding out, and that causes foot fatigue and other problems.
Williams recommends looking for a heel cage that conforms to your foot, elastic laces or some sort of stretch material like a technical knit, neoprene or Lycra that will keep a shoe snug to your foot, especially if you plan to use them for much more than a brisk walk. “You want some way to cinch them,” she says, “whether through the materials or lacing.”
Johnson imparts similar wisdom, adding that arch support, cushioning and breathable material are important considerations. “True hands-free slide-in shoes are great for people with back or hip problems who have trouble bending over,” she says, “but they shouldn’t come at the expense of cushioning and support.”
Whether you’re grabbing a pair for low-impact exercise or for easy summer travel, here are the best slip-on shoes you can buy right now.
Best overall slip-on shoes
The originator of the true hands-free step-in heel cage, Kizik offers plenty of support, a soft foam and rubber outsole for cushioning and traction, and a roomy toe box. A breathable upper keeps feet cool, and even after things inevitably heat up, the insoles pop out for a quick wash.?
They’re water-resistant yet highly breathable so your feet stay dry whether you’re walking in wet grass or working hard. Thanks to a knit upper, they’re light but still offer plenty of cushioning and support, and the stretchy collar provides a light hug of a fit, making them comfortable and ensuring they won’t fly off if you break into a run.?
Best slip-on shoes for bare feet
The Restore have a knit sock inside that’s easy to slide into and also hugs your foot, feels comfortably snug and is easy to clean. The knit outer allows feet to breathe, and it’s complemented by stretchy areas to secure the fit, while sugarcane-based foam in the insole and outsole provide cushioning with a nod toward environmental responsibility.
At first sight, these Nikes appear as if they’ve broken in half, but that’s what they’re supposed to look like. The heel on the FlyEase pivots so that the shoe opens completely, allowing you to truly just step in, which is particularly useful for those with a bad back or trouble bending to even pull the tab on a standard slip-in.
Most versatile slip-on shoes
Flip the heel liner up and crank the dial on the lockdown system to tighten the laces and the SlipSpeed are fit for training. When done, push the liner down and slide into the clog-like upper for a soft and comforting recovery shoe. Foam midsoles provide cushioning while venting and a heat-reactive material helps keep feet cool.
A product of the California skater scene that also defines the vibe, the throwback Vans come in a wide range of colors and designs, from straight-laced to funky. The padded collar keeps it from sliding off and a cotton lining and foam insert provide more breathability and support than you might expect just by looking at them.
Best commuter slip-on shoes
A seamless, one-piece upper gives the Relay a socklike fit and a unique look that can pass as more of a casual shoe. Padding on the heel collar holds your foot in place, and the knit material — made from eco-friendly materials — is breathable for additional comfort. A flexible, dual-foam midsole also provides soft, durable padding.???
The stretchy uppers provide a socklike fit, while a breathable insole helps your feet stay fresh. High-rebound cushioning and integral foam padding add support and shock absorption so they remain comfortable throughout the day, and they come in a range of styles from sporty to subdued.?
Best multipurpose slip-on shoes
The Jungle Moc do it all. They're comfortable enough for all-day wear any time of the year — the suede upper is warm and weatherproof in winter but breathes enough that it’s not a toaster oven for your feet — great for walking and light activity. Yet they also have the traction and protection to make for a decent hiking shoe and enough class to pull off a casual night out.
Sturdy built-in arch support that conforms to your foot makes the Atom suitable for a wide range of adventures, from long walks in country to city commutes to light runs. The lightweight knit upper has a stretchiness to it that allows it to both breathe and provide comfortable foot-hugging support.
