Sure, flip flops or sandals may be the easiest choice to hurry up and take the dog outside or to go run some errands when the baby doesn’t want to be put down while you lace up your sneakers, but they aren’t the only option when it comes to convenience. Slip-on sneakers are a great way to have the comfort and support of a sneaker without the hassle of laces. That’s why I reached out to two podiatrists, Dr. Brad Schaeffer and Dr. Jackie Sutera, to find out what slip-ons strike the perfect balance between comfortable and supportive.
The 13 Best Slip-On Sneakers, According to Podiatrists and PureWow Editors
Slip ‘em on and go!
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Published Apr 23, 2024
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Paula Boudes for PureWow
The Best Slip-On Sneakers at a Glance
1
Best Platform Sneakers
Vionic Kearny Sneakers
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2
Best Slip-On Sneakers for Travel
APL Techloom Bliss
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3
Most Popular Slip-On Sneakers
Vans Classic Slip-Ons
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4
Best Recovery Slip-On Sneakers
Hoka Restore TC
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5
Best White Slip-On Sneakers
Skechers Arcade Meet Ya There Sneakers
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Meet the Experts
- Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, is an NYC-based podiatrist and foot surgeon who specializes in women’s foot care. Dr. Sutera earned her medical degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in Manhattan. She performed her residency at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in Queens, where she served as chief resident.
- Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM, is a Board-Certified Foot Surgeon with the ABFAS at his NYC podiatry office, Central Park SOLE. Dr. Schaeffer earned his medical degree from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. He spent three years as a resident at Hoboken University Medical Center in the Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgical residency program.
How I Chose the Best Slip-On Sneakers
After consulting with podiatrists Dr. Schaeffer and Dr. Sutera about what to look for in slip-on sneakers (and what their favorite brands), are I was able to narrow down a solid list to recommend shoes that will fit comfortably and protect your feet. I also checked in with other PureWow staffers to get the scoop on what pairs they love.
These sleek slip-ons are lace-free and have a bit of platform for style. They have stretch panels along the upper to allow your feet to move normally and avoid stiffness. The footbed is cushioned and has plenty of built-in arch support to cradle your arches and absorb shock from each step. “They are so comfortable—no bunching of the toes or slipping of the heel,” says one Vionic customer. “[It’s] hard to find a fashionable shoe in a wide size. I have plantar fasciitis and the arch support helps immensely.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13
- Promising Review: “I bought one pair to try on after being unable to decide on a color. They were slip-on ready right out of the box, no socks and so comfortable! Very nice looking, went back and now I have one in every color!” — a Vionic customer
Not only are these great for slipping on in a rush, like when you’re trying to get through TSA as fast as possible, but they’ve got a stretch rebound Techloom upper that makes them comfortable and stretchy while you sprint to your gate, not to mention an elastic panel across the instep so your foot doesn’t slip out when you’re taking a step. “[They’re] so comfy and easy to just step right in as I'm walking out the door,” says Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera. “Plus, the elastic band in place of laces is a game-changer when I'm in a rush (especially in places like the airport) and it never feels too tight.” The Propelium cushioned insole is designed for comfort and durability as opposed to other materials that don’t last as long, like EVA.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Promising Review: “Awesome shoes to throw on for running out, walking, heading to the gym, etc. [They’re] super comfortable [and have] more support than the average slip-on shoe. Worth every penny.” — a Zappos customer
Whether you’re skateboarding or just wearing these for casual looks, they’re a favorite among many, including Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth. “I wear these old-school cuties everywhere and love them. They're not super supportive, so if you have foot issues I'd highly recommend adding an insert, but I didn't have any break-in period with these and find they fit true to size. And rumor has it these are going to be the next It throwback shoe once the Adidas Samba hype has died down,” she says. High arches likely won’t find these shoes comfortable, but if you have flat feet or just are looking for a solid pair of casual slip-ons that have a durable and sturdy sole, these are great.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13.5
- Promising Review: “I have several pairs of Vans and the slips-on are my favorite. [They’re] true to size and comfy to wear.” — a Vans customer
The stretchy upper paired with the EVA foam midsole make these sneakers a great pick for recovery. Whether you just ran a marathon or are on your feet all day at work, these slip-on sneakers are squishy and very lightweight. The inside is lined with a knit sock, so you can forgo your own when wearing these. They’re a little flashier than many other slip-on sneakers, but if you like a little flair, these are a great pick.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 15
- Promising Review: “These shoes are so comfortable! I put them on, and I never want to take them off. This is my second pair of Hokas and I highly recommend anyone that has feet issues to purchase a pair. Also, the customer service at Hoka is first class!” — a Hoka customer
We all need a cute white pair of sneakers in our arsenal, and these slip-ons have laces—that you don’t have to tie. The midsole is amply cushioned, but there’s also a removable arch support insole that will keep your arches comfy and lifted when you’re wearing them. These are machine washable and made of vegan materials, too.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5.5 to 9
- Promising Review: “I was looking for a spring shoe that would be cute and comfortable and these are it. I have arthritis in my leg, and they support my leg great.” — a Skechers customer
Calling all walkers: If you’re looking for a pair of sneaks that support your feet and don’t come untied every couple of miles on your walks, these laceless slip-ons are for you. The heel collar is lightly padded to offer a bit of ankle support and the flexible cushioned insole is comfortable when you’re on your feet for hours. The upper is super stretchy with a pull-on tab so the fabric doesn’t roll when you slip your foot into them.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Promising Review: “[They’re] super cute, bought them for a fashionable, comfortable option to wear to the gym and as I have nerve issues these have enough give to wear and not have any issues while on the treadmill.” — an Allbirds customer
Don’t let the zipper fool you, you can still slip in and out of these sneakers without bending down to zip and unzip. While the zipper is functional (if you prefer to unzip when you take them off), the stretch panel on the opposite side of the upper should provide enough stretch to step in without struggle. The platform is about one-and-a-half inches tall but is lightweight and easy to walk in. The footbed is padded well with the brand’s algae-infused Bloom foam and the material is anti-microbial and anti-odor (no stinky feet here!).
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 11
- Promising Review: “I love these shoes! I’m a teacher and usually wear Hokas. I’m able to wear these cute Dr. Scholl’s all day, just like my Hokas. I’ve gotten many compliments on them, too.” — a Dr. Scholl’s customer
The top of these sneakers fits like a sock, keeping your ankles and feet protected from getting wet. The material is 100 percent waterproof, thanks to the very small pores on the shoes. But don’t worry, they’re still breathable to let out heat to avoid feet sweat. They have a very slim silhouette so if you prefer something very understated, these are for you. The insoles are removable and the whole shoe is made of vegan materials.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Promising Review: “[I] love these shoes; very comfortable. Living in Western Washington where it rains 95 percent of the time, it’s awesome to not have wet socks after being outside for several hours. They were a bit snug at first but after wearing them for a bit they adjusted.” — a Vessi customer
I’m a huge Cariuma fan, and so are several of our editors. The brand does a great job at constructing a durable and comfortable shoe that’s versatile and sleek. These slip-ons have a canvas upper and sturdy leather sole. While the footbed doesn’t provide a ton of support, it’s padded for comfort, and reviewers note that the edges of the shoes don’t rub against your skin uncomfortably. They come in a multitude of colorways and upper materials from leather to canvas.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13
- Promising Review: “These slip-on sneakers are easy to put on without having to bend over. The foot just slides in with ease [and they have] great traction. [The] toe base [is] not too narrow… Just an all-around versatile, great sneaker.” — a Cariuma customer
Don’t worry about your heel wearing down in these slip-ons because, if you haven’t seen the commercials for the hands-free design, you can slip these on with the heel popping right up to where it belongs, no bending, readjusting or hands needed. The upper is said to be very breathable and the foam outsole and traction pods on the bottom make walking in them a breeze.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13
- Promising Review: “I recently had toe surgery and after wearing that special shoe the foot doctor gives you, I needed something with support yet comfortable. This shoe did it…I was hesitant on a slip in shoe, but it’s great. I like the idea I can still tighten it up with laces.” — a Kizik customer
From plantar fasciitis to foot pain to high arches, these shoes are designed solely—pun intended—for comfort and support. They have an orthotic insole for cushioning and impact absorption, along with an arch booster underneath for added support. The toe box is also a bit wider to ease pressure on bunions, hammertoes or swollen feet and the stretchy upper is also water repellant. Some reviewers note they can feel a little clunky, but if you have foot problems, are worth it.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 12
- Promising Review: “These shoes are amazing. I am a 6 1/2 W or WW depending on the shoe and have high arches. I have struggled to find comfortable well-fitting shoes my entire life…These shoes are so comfortable and required no break in, just step in and go.” — an Orthofeet customer
Washable sneakers are the way to go if you are constantly wearing the same pair of shoes or are using them for something like gardening or yard work. They’re made with eco-conscious materials like certified cotton and are totally vegan. The footbed is twill covered over a layer of soft-yet-sturdy EVA cushioning.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 12
- Promising Review: “I was wanting a casual slip-on and this [pair] is perfect! [They] fit well [and have] good support. I liked [them] so much I bought a second pair.” — a Vionic customer
Comfy slip-ons are one of my go-tos, and these even have an air-cooled memory foam insole to cradle the shape of your foot while keeping your feet from sweating and sliding around. The stretch fit upper is made to have a sock-like effect and hug the top of your feet for a more contoured fit. They’re 100 percent vegan and they’re even machine washable.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 7 to 9
- Promising Review: “They are my go-to sneakers when going shopping or wearing them to my doctor appointments. I love the classy style and how comfy they feel. Usually, I need to break my shoes in before they are comfortable, but no need too with these.” — a Skechers customer
What to Look for in Slip-On Sneakers
When you start shopping for the perfect pair of slip-on sneakers, Dr. Sutera has a few suggestions for what to look for and what to avoid. “Look for not only a comfortable sneaker but also one that offers support,” she tells me. “The sole should allow natural motion and not be too stiff or too flimsy. Slip-on sneakers should have a cushioned sole with arch support.” Want an extra tip? “Test the shoe by bending and twisting it. The forefoot should bend to allow flexibility while walking but you should not be able to completely twist the shoe (the motion looks like you're wringing out a wet towel),” she says.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Brand of Sneakers Are Good for Your Feet?
Both Dr. Schaeffer and Dr. Sutera agree that Vionic, Skechers and Hoka are all fantastic brands to shop for slip-on sneakers and regular sneakers alike. They focus on supportive and sturdy shoes to ensure your feet are going to stay comfortable and not hurt after wearing them.
Are Slip-On Shoes Good for Your Feet?
If you’re looking for the most optimal support your feet, no, slip-ons aren’t the number one style you should be considering. But sometimes, convenience is necessary, and as long as you’re taking into consideration qualities like a cushioned insole, sole construction and a sturdy heel, you’ll find a good fit for your feet. “The biggest design flaw [of slip-on sneakers] is that the heel counter, which is the back part of the shoe, is too flimsy, and then your heel falls out and the slip-on sneakers become a hazard,” says Dr. Schaeffer. “Also, slip-on sneakers don't necessarily have the best insoles in them, so that's why I really recommend putting a Dr. Scholl’s insole in there, like their new 24-Hour Energy Multipurpose Insoles which are game changers. They're designed to provide more support and energy return with their Boosting Beads technology, which I love.”
Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.