We Found the 15 Best Slip-On Sneakers After Sliding Into Dozens of Pairs

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

We love these easy-to-wear, laceless shoes for their comfort, convenience, and style

<p>Verywell Fit / David Hattan</p>

Verywell Fit / David Hattan

Whether heading to the airport, commuting to work, or just taking out the trash at home, sliding into a slip-on sneaker can save you time and effort. While they’re loved for their convenience, many laceless options also offer the perfect combination of cushioning and support for all-day comfort, walking, running, and other exercise. The versatile shoes also come in a variety of styles—from athletic-looking to office-appropriate—and cater to all different budgets.

To find the best slip-on sneakers, we sought expert advice from podiatrists Gretchen A. Lawrence, DPM, and Marlene Reid, DPM, FACFAS, and from orthopedic surgeon Christopher Hayes, MD, MS. They helped us understand that slip-on sneakers should fit well and deliver ample cushioning and support, and also be suitable for what you’ll be using them most. For instance, slip-on shoes for running will require a more durable, grippy outsole than those you’ll be wearing to run errands.

Additionally, we slid into some of the most popular shoes and tested them in The Verywell Testing Lab and in the real world by wearing them for everyday activities, as well as walking or running in them to assess their fit, feel, and performance. Our final list includes a variety of slip-on styles, representing the best options for a range of needs and activities.

Best Overall: Vessi Cityscape Classic Waterproof Shoes

Buy at Vessi.com

Pros

  • Versatile, sleek design

  • Great traction

  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Limited color options

  • Grippy outsole catches on some surfaces

A stylish, versatile shoe that’s comfy, supportive, and even waterproof, Vessi’s Cityscape Classic is an easy pick for our top spot. We think these shoes have the perfect ratio of cushioning to weight. They feel plush underfoot in the heel and footbed while still being incredibly lightweight.

We like their comfy, glove-like fit, which requires no break-in period. The elastic ankle collar allows you to easily slip your foot in. We’re also impressed with the shoe’s support and shock absorption, which helps ward off foot fatigue, even after we walk in them for hours. The outsole is extremely grippy, which is great for walking on slippery surfaces, but it does catch on certain indoor floors.

The shoe’s upper material is engineered with thousands of nano-sized holes that are small enough to keep water out but still allow sweat and heat to escape. Overall, we think the Cityscape Classic is a great value, especially for a waterproof shoe. With a sleek design, they’re perfect for work or casual wear, although we’d love to see them in more color options.

Price at time of publication: $105

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-11; Men’s 6-14 | Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking, casual wear

Best Women’s: Rykä Romia Walking Shoe

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Dsw.com

Pros

  • Supportive, comfortable fit

  • Plush but responsive cushioning

  • Sleek and stylish

Cons

  • Limited color options

You can’t go wrong with Ryka’s Romia Walking Shoe for a convenient slip-on sneaker that's comfortable and on-trend. The shoe’s lightweight cushioning provides solid arch support and springy responsiveness during walks, allowing easy, smooth transitions. It offers plush landings and good shock absorption to help protect knees and other joints. The bouncy and supportive feel makes these shoes great for casual walking and all-day wear.

We’re also impressed with the shoe’s smooth, seamless knit upper, which makes for a supportive, comfy fit. It’s also very breathable and keeps our feet cool and dry—it even kept our feet comfortable during a long day of sightseeing. We even tried walking in them without socks and noticed no irritation or discomfort. Sleek and lightweight, the Romia looks great when paired with fitness or casual attire. We only wish they came in a wider selection of colors.

Price at time of publication: $100

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-12 | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking

Best Men’s: Adidas Lite Racer Adapt 5.0 Shoes

Buy at Amazon.com

Pros

  • Pillow-like comfort

  • Budget-friendly

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons

  • Arch support is lacking

With exceptional comfort and a sleek style, Adidas’ Lite Racer Adapt 5.0 Shoe earns our top spot for men. They’re a great option for those who want a versatile, budget-friendly slip-on sneaker for running, training, commuting, or traveling. The shoe is also comfy and supportive with ultra-soft cushioning, despite a minimalist look and feel.

Made with recycled materials, the soft upper is stretchy and comfortable. The material hugs the foot for a supportive fit while still allowing for plenty of flexibility. Plus, the shoe has a wide toe box, offering plenty of room for toes to spread out. The tabs on the heel and tongue make it super easy to put them on and take them off. We love that the insole has antimicrobial properties, helping to keep feet smelling fresh.

With limited arch support, this trainer isn’t the best option for distance running. However, we like it as a comfortable and affordable option for shorter runs and gym workouts. The pair’s sleek, modern look makes them perfect for casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $70

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Men’s 6.5-14 | Materials: Textile upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Running, training

Best Budget: Sketchers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Walmart.com

Pros

  • Lightweight and flexible

  • Comes in three widths

  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Can be squeaky at first

Whether you want a slip-on sneaker for work, casual wear, or exploring a vacation destination on foot, Skechers’ Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe is a budget-friendly sneaker that offers the perfect combination of style and comfort. Weighing less than 6 ounces, the Go Walk Joy is one of the lightest shoes we’re testing but still doesn’t skimp on cushioning. The foam insole feels responsive and supportive with each stride. We initially noticed that the rubber soles were squeaky on some indoor surfaces, such as wood floors, but the noise stopped after the bottoms got scuffed.

The shoe’s soft upper is designed with flexible mesh fabric that stretches for a snug, supportive fit. The shoes feel extremely breathable, and our feet never get too hot, even during long walks. It also comes in narrow, regular, or wide, so no matter your foot shape, it’s easy to find a size that works for you.

Price at time of publication: $60

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-13 | Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking, travel, all-day wear

Best for Walking: Allbird Women's Tree Dasher Relay Walking Shoes

Buy at Allbirds.com

Buy at Nordstrom.com

Pros

  • Responsive for walking or running

  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Good shock absorption

Cons

  • Limited color options

  • No wide sizes

Allbirds’ Tree Dasher Relay shoe is a lightweight, responsive shoe that doesn’t compromise on stability, making it a nice option for fitness walkers who want a convenient, slip-on sneaker.

Thanks to their impressive shock absorption, we never feel any knee or other joint pain when wearing these shoes during walks. Their handy pull tab and flexible upper make it easy to slide in and out of them. The removable insole feels flexible but still provides ample arch support. We also like that the rubber traction pads on the outsole deliver traction right where it’s needed, while the flared heel enhances the shoe’s overall stability.

The Tree Dasher Relay feels very breathable and has minimal seams, which helps protect against blisters. We also love that they’re constructed with renewable materials, such as a one-piece upper made from FSC Certified eucalyptus trees. They also feature a Merino wool heel lining that adds even more support and helps to lock your foot in place.

In terms of sizing, the shoe doesn’t come in extended widths, so it may not be the best option for those with wide feet. We also wish they came in a larger variety of colors.

Price at time of publication: $135

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-11; Men’s 8-14 | Materials: Eucalyptus pulp, castor bean insole, Merino wool, natural rubber | Best For: Walking, running

Best for Wide Feet: Kizik Men's Athens

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Kizik.com

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable upper

  • Available in wide sizes

  • Good traction

Cons

  • Not easy to clean

If you need extra room to accommodate wide feet, Kizik’s Athens shoe is a popular favorite suitable for both exercise and casual wear. The roomy toe box offers plenty of room for those with issues with bunions or swollen feet, and they also come in wide sizes if you need more space. The shoe features Kizik’s patented heel rebound technology, which allows you to step on the heel of the shoe as your foot slips in, and the heel springs back for a hands-free experience. Meanwhile, the laces still let you adjust the fit if necessary.

The cushioning of these shoes feels plush and supportive without being either too squishy or too firm. We also find that the shoe provides good shock absorption, even toward the end of long walks. When it comes to traction, these sneakers have plenty of grip on their rubber soles, so we don’t have any issues keeping steady on slick surfaces.

While we wouldn’t wear these shoes for running, we recommend them for fitness walking or all-day casual wear. We also think these are great walking shoes for travel, especially in hot conditions when you want a lightweight, breathable shoe. We love that they come in various neutral and fun colors, although we found that the light colors aren’t easy to clean.

Price at time of publication: $124-$129

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Men’s 5-15; Women’s 5-13 | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking, casual wear

Best Lightweight: OluKai Pehuea Slip On Sneakers

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Zappos.com

Pros

  • Very lightweight and breathable

  • Stylish

  • Versatile shoe for traveling

Cons

  • No wide widths

Need a lightweight slip-on shoe for travel?  OluKai’s Pehuea Casual Shoes are perfect for warm-weather vacations or casual summer wear. We’re impressed that these shoes provide cushioned comfort despite their minimalist design. They feel comfortable right out of the box, with no break-in period needed. We should note, however, that they aren’t available in wide widths, so they may not work for those who’ve had issues with blisters or bunions and need a wide toe box shoe.

The shoe is also very breathable, making it a comfortable option for extended periods of wear in warm weather. We tried wearing them without socks and didn’t notice any discomfort or irritation that could cause blisters. We also like their drop-in heel design, which allows us to wear them as both regular sneakers or as clog-style slide-ins when the heel is down.

Whether you’re wearing them to work, out on the town, or to your favorite vacation spot, the stylish Pehuea will keep your feet comfy and cool.

Price at time of publication: $100

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-11 | Materials: Mesh and leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking, casual wear

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Orthofeet Kita Hands-Free Women's Athletic Sneakers

Buy at Orthofeet.com

Pros

  • Excellent support for plantar fasciitis

  • Comes in three different widths

  • Good stability and traction

Cons

  • Limited color options

  • Pricier than others

If you have a history of plantar fasciitis, you can protect yourself by wearing a slip-on sneaker with good support and ample cushioning in the heel area, like Orthofeet’s Kita Hands-Free Shoe. While these shoes are pricier than others on our list, they perform well on both treadmill and outdoor walks, providing excellent stability and comfort and making them well worth their price point.

They feature Orthofeet’s patented slip-on system, eliminating the need to bend down and put on or take off shoes with your hands. When we first stepped into them, we were impressed with the shoe’s customizable fit. They come with an orthotic insole, fitting spacers, and an arch booster insert so that you can find the right level of support—which is crucial for keeping plantar fasciitis at bay. The upper material feels soft and smooth, with no irritating seams to cause chafing or blisters.

What’s more, the Kita’s cushioning provides plenty of shock absorption and overall comfort, making it a good choice for walking and other low-impact exercise. We also like the sturdy rubber outsole, which delivers good traction on a variety of surfaces. Great for all foot sizes and shapes, the shoe comes in a wide range of women's sizes and widths. However, we’d love to see more color options beyond a handful of neutral hues.

Price at time of publication: $155

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-12 | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking, low-impact exercise

Related: The 7 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Cushioned: Kizik Women's Roamer Hands-Free Shoe

Buy at Kizik.com

Buy at Nordstrom.com

Pros

  • Responsive cushioning

  • Very comfortable fit

  • Good traction

Cons

  • Heavier than some other options

Slip-on sneakers can sometimes offer inadequate cushioning, but that’s certainly not the case with Kizik’s Roamer shoe. We like that the plush midsole provides just the right amount of comfort, arch support, and responsiveness. The heel is also well-cushioned, which makes each step feel comfortable. Additionally, the outsole is wide and grippy, providing good stability and traction on various surfaces.

We’re very impressed with the shoe’s fit, which is snug and supportive. Made with four-way stretch knit fabric, the upper moves with your feet for incredible all-day comfort. The toe box is wide, with plenty of room for toes to splay out.

The shoe’s impressive cloud-like comfort does add some weight, though, so these shoes feel a bit heavier than other slip-on pairs we’re testing. But we like that this pair still feels breathable and doesn’t cause our feet to overheat despite all its cushioning, even when strolling on city sidewalks in hot weather. We love these shoes for fitness walks or casual wear when you want your feet to feel comfortable and supportive but still look stylish.

Price at time of publication: $149

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-13; Men’s 4.5-13 | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking

Best Casual: Vans Classic Slip-On Shoe

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Zappos.com

Pros

  • Sleek, timeless style

  • Comes in wide sizes

  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Not suitable for walking long distances

  • Lacking arch support

A tried-and-true favorite, Vans’ Classic Slip-on Shoes have a timeless style that pairs well with almost anything. The iconic shoe’s sleek, low-profile upper make them easy and convenient to wear. Beyond their cool design, the shoes keep your feet comfy and blister-free, thanks to a seamless fit and padded collar. Meanwhile, the waffle rubber outsole enhances the overall comfort, as well as its durability.

While they’re great for casual wear and strolling around town, these slip-ons are not the best choice for walking long distances. In that case, a shoe with better arch support and more cushioning, like Kizik’s Roamer or Allbirds’ Tree Dasher Relay, would be a more suitable option. Still, we love the Classic Slip-on as a comfortable, versatile wardrobe staple. And with a budget-friendly price plus dozens of colors and patterns, you may even want to pick up more than one pair.

Price at time of publication: $50

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Men’s 6.5-16; Women’s 5-17.5 | Materials: Canvas upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Casual wear

Related: Tested and Approved: The 10 Best Comfort Shoes for Walking and Running

Best for Recovery: Topo Rekover 2

Buy at Zappos.com

Buy at Campsaver.com

Pros

  • Great for recovery

  • Roomy toe box

  • APMA Seal of Approval

Cons

  • Not suitable for walking long distances

After a long run or other hard workout, slipping into a supportive, comfy recovery shoe can help soothe and restore your tired feet and muscles. Topo’s Rekover 2 shoe delivers post-exercise comfort and relief but also works well as a comfy casual shoe.

The best aspect of these shoes is their therapeutic foam insole, which features ridges that gently stimulate the foot to aid in recovery. When first slipping on these shoes each morning, we appreciate their light massage, which motivates us to keep wearing them all day. This pair is extremely sturdy on indoor floors and pavement, thanks to the grippy Vibram rubber outsole.

With a soft merino wool upper, this APMA-approved shoe is designed to be worn without socks. Topo shoes are known for their roomy toe box, and we’re impressed with all the space that allows toes to splay naturally and comfortably.

Since it’s designed as a recovery shoe, the Rekover 2 is not the best choice for fitness walking, especially for long distances. However, it’s ideal for sliding into once you return home from a long training session.

Price at time of publication: $120

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Men’s 8-13; Women’s 6-11| Materials: Merino wool upper, foam midsole, Vibram rubber outsole | Best For: Recovery, casual wear

Best with Arch Support: KURU ATOM Slip-On

Buy at Kurufootwear.com

Pros

  • Built-in arch support

  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Sleek, streamlined design

Cons

  • No wide sizes

Some slip-on sneakers don’t have proper arch support, so you may have to add your own custom orthotics, according to Dr. Reid. However, that’s not the case with Kuru’s Atom Slip-on Shoe, which features built-in arch support that conforms to the shape of your feet. The shoe’s stellar support makes it a smart choice if you’re seeking relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms or hoping to prevent a recurrence.

With comfy cushioning and a flexible design, the shoe works for a range of activities, including walking, running, and all-day casual wear. The slip-on design features convenient front and back pull tabs, making it easy to get into and out of the shoe. We love the upper’s knit material, which offers a sock-like feel but allows for ample airflow. Although the wide box is roomy, the shoe doesn’t come in extended widths, so it may not be suitable for those with wide feet. However, if you need good arch support and want to avoid bulky, orthopedic-looking shoes, they’re a sleek, comfortable option.

Price at time of publication: $145

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 6-11; Men’s 7-13 | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking

Best for Narrow Feet: Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Grateful

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Zappos.com

Pros

  • Excellent arch support

  • Budget-friendly

  • Machine-washable

Cons

  • May be too stiff for some

Another great option from Skechers, their Go Walk Arch Fit shoe offers a sleek, low-profile design that works well for those with narrow feet. The toe box of these shoes isn’t as wide as other slip-ons we’re testing, making it a good option for those who worry about their feet sliding around too much. We also like that the shoe’s ample cushioning helps hold our feet securely in place while providing good responsiveness during walks.

What really sets these shoes apart from some other basic slip-on sneakers is their patented Skechers Arch Fit insole system with podiatrist-certified arch support. We noticed the arch support right away when first wearing these shoes and like how it contours to the shape of our feet. However, some wearers who don’t need as much support in that area might find them a bit too stiff.

We’re impressed with the shoe’s upper, which feels smooth, soft, and breathable, with no irritation or uncomfortable rubbing. Even better, like many Skechers shoes, these can be machine-washed if they need to be freshened up.

Price at time of publication: $85

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-11 | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole | Best For: Walking, casual wear

Related: The 12 Best Arch Support Running Shoes for More Pain-Free Miles

Best for Seniors: Orthofeet Francis Walking Shoes

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Orthofeet.com

Pros

  • Excellent arch support

  • Good traction and stability

  • Available in three widths

Cons

  • Material is not very breathable

Older adults need supportive and comfortable shoes to help address any mobility issues, as well as durable and grippy to promote good balance. Orthofeet’s Francis No-Tie Shoes check all these boxes and more, making them excellent walking shoes for seniors looking for a convenient but comfortable slip-on sneaker. The shoe’s removable orthopedic insole offers good arch support, while the multi-layer foam cushioning helps to reduce muscle fatigue in the legs and feet. Plus, the shoe’s bungee lace closure makes them super easy to get on and off.

A spacious toe box helps alleviate pressure on swollen feet, bunions, and hammertoes. Meanwhile, the stretch knitted fabric upper gently hugs the foot for a secure fit without feeling too tight or irritating. However, some wearers wish the material was more breathable.

Another APMA Seal of Approval winner, the Francis is comfortable and sturdy for walking and other low-intensity workouts. The sole’s mild rocker shape also helps to propel you forward, putting some spring in your step. Additionally, the rubber outsole provides good traction and enhances the overall stability, helping older adults stay steady on their feet.

Price at time of publication: $145

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-12 | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Walking, casual wear

Best for Running: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 Running Shoes

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Walmart.com

Pros

  • Excellent cushioning and support

  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Secure, flexible fit

Cons

  • Lacking in lateral support

  • Pricier than others

If you want a running shoe that’s comfy and convenient, check out Nike’s React Phantom Run Flyknit 2. Although it looks like a casual wear shoe, it has the support and protection needed for a daily trainer. Breathable and lightweight, this sock-fit running shoe features durable cushioning that absorbs impact and provides soft comfort underfoot. It’s also very responsive, so you’ll get springy returned energy with each stride.

The shoe uses a laceless, elastic design intertwined with the upper, so it flexes with your foot, but feels secure as you run. The tabs on the heel and tongue make it easy to get on and off.

Molding around the heel enhances the locked-in feel, while targeted rubber on the outsole delivers reliable traction. But the pair’s lateral support is somewhat lacking, so they’re not as versatile for cross-training activities as some of Nike’s other running shoes, like the popular Pegasus 40. However, the Phantom Run Flyknit 2 can hold its own against other top running shoes, and we recommend it for runners of all levels looking for a neutral training shoe.

Price at time of publication: $140

Key Specs: 
Size Range:
Women’s 5-12; Men’s 8-13 | Materials: Flyknit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Best For: Running

We Also Tested

  • Skechers’ Slip-ins: Ultra Flex 3.0 - Brilliant is another popular lace-free option from the brand that’s well-cushioned, flexible, and breathable. While we like its overall fit and comfort, we found it difficult to get the right fit and felt they were too narrow.

  •  Adidas’ Ultraboost Light is a lightweight, responsive running shoe that’s suitable for short or long distances. While the shoe’s high heel tab makes it easy to slide into them, they’re actually a lace-up shoe, so they’re not as convenient as the laceless options included here.

How We Selected and Tested the Best Slip-On Sneakers

To find the best slip-on sneakers on the market, we considered the top-performing shoes from other categories we’ve researched and tested for other Verywell Fit roundups, such as best cushioned walking shoes and best walking shoes. We also sought expert advice from Gretchen A. Lawrence, DPM, a podiatrist in Shelby, North Carolina, Marlene Reid, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist in Naperville, Illinois, and Christopher Hayes, MD, MS, an orthopedic surgeon with Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center.

With their advice in mind, we researched dozens of slip-on sneakers from reputable brands and evaluated them for fit, comfort, support, durability, cushioning, materials, design, breathability, price, and more. We also consulted the American Podiatric Medical Association’s list of products that have earned their Seal of Acceptance for quality options to consider.

Additionally, we tested some of the slip-on sneakers ourselves by walking and/or running in them on treadmills, roads, sidewalks, and paths and wearing them for everyday activities. We paid close attention to the shoe’s fit, ensuring no rubbing, irritation, or discomfort. During our walks and runs, we considered how supportive and responsive the shoe felt and how the shoe’s design, materials, and weight affected our overall comfort and performance. We then rated each pair from 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (excellent) based on fit, comfort, responsiveness, stability, blister protection, and overall value. Finally, we combined the expert advice, our research, and our real-world findings to offer our top recommendations. We continue to test these shoes at home and will update this list if new insights arise.

What to Look For in Slip-On Sneakers

Fit and Sizing

Slip-on sneakers should be well-fitting to your foot type since loose-fitting shoes can cause trips and falls, while tight shoes can cause circulation and wound problems, Dr. Hayes says. It’s harder to accomplish that “just-right” fit with slip-on shoes since they often don’t have laces to adjust the fit. However, some models come in narrow or wide widths so you can get a shoe that works for your foot shape and size.

When trying shoes on, they should feel snug at the front of your foot while still having room to wiggle your toes. Your heel should feel locked in and secure, and not be sliding back and forth or up and down.

Comfort and Support

Look for slip-on sneakers that prioritize comfort with generous arch support and cushioning. The shoe’s midsole should have plenty of cushioning for shock absorption and to keep your feet comfy and energized throughout the day. Look for insoles that contour to the shape of your arch. If the support is not adequate for your unique arch, you may need to remove the insole and use your own custom orthotics or inserts.

Materials

Choosing slip-on sneakers made of high-quality, durable materials, such as rubber for the outsole, will improve your overall comfort and help reduce injury risk. If you plan to run or walk in them for long periods, look for shoes made with breathable materials that can help with moisture and odor control. For upper materials, knit, mesh, leather, and wool will feel soft, smooth, and help prevent chafing. Some shoes, such as Adidas’ Lite Racer Adapt 5.0, have antimicrobial insoles that help keep foot odor under control.

Additionally, you should consider the season and potential weather conditions. For hotter weather, you’ll want a well-ventilated, breathable shoe but for cooler months, you may need a slip-on sneaker with a leather or wool upper, such as Topo’s Rekover 2. If wet weather is a concern, consider a waterproof shoe like Vessi’s Cityscape Classic or one with a lightweight upper that dries quickly.

Intended Purpose

Are you planning to walk a lot or run in the shoes, or are they just for casual wear? You should definitely consider what you’ll be doing in the shoes to find the right pair for you. For instance, if you’re just wearing them around the house, you won’t need as much cushioning, support, and traction as you would if you’re running in them. Examine the tread or sole of the shoe to ensure it offers enough grip and stability for your activities, recommends Dr. Lawrence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are slip-on sneakers good for walking?

Slip-on sneakers can be worn for a variety of activities, including walking. However, if you want to walk in slip-on sneakers, it’s important to make sure the shoe has generous arch support and cushioning to help reduce risk of injury. Additionally, it should fit snugly at the ankle to prevent sliding, and be wider at the toe box to allow toes to splay, says Dr. Lawrence. Shoes that are specifically designed for walking, like Orthofeet’s Francis, will offer the right fit and stability.

Do you need to wear socks with slip-on shoes?

Wearing socks with slip-on shoes is a matter of personal preference, but there are many benefits to having an absorbent, wicking layer between your skin and the shoe. A good pair of socks will pull sweat away from the feet, helping to reduce friction and prevent blisters or chafing. Socks will also help with odor control, keeping your shoes smelling fresh for longer. If you plan to go sockless in a pair of slip-on sneakers, be sure that it has a seamless design or smooth interior to prevent irritation.

Do slip-on shoes have good arch support?

Like regular laced sneakers, slip-on shoes have arch support variation, ranging from narrow shoes with no arch support to ones with deep heel cups and high support, according to Dr. Hayes. A shoe like Orthofeet’s Kita provides arch support right where it’s needed. On the other hand, a thinner, less cushioned shoe like Vans’ Classic Slip-on would probably not be a good option for someone with flat feet or high arches. If you typically use custom orthotics or inserts in your shoes to get the right arch support, look for slip-on shoes that have a removable insole or are deep enough to accommodate them.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing running shoes and knows what features to look for to determine the best running shoes for various needs.

Related: The 14 Best Slides of 2023