The 16 Best Slip-On Sneakers for Comfort and Convenience (2024)

The 16 Best Slip-On Sneakers for Comfort and Convenience (1)

Slip-on sneakers are comfortable, go-to footwear that is extraordinarily versatile. With endless styles on the market, there's a pair of slip-on sneakers to suit every occasion—for everything from running errands to gym sessions.

"For me, the best part of the slip-on sneaker is the 'no-fuss' factor," says Zoé DuFour, an expert stylist. "They can transport you from Pilates to a girls' lunch. They look amazing with a sundress or a pair of linen slacks, therefore I will always recommend them to a client for summer travel because of their versatility. The perforated or knit ones wear well and breathe."

To find the best slip-on sneakers, we considered a range of styles, materials, and types of support for different feet. Since shoe choice is a personal preference, we chose a wide variety of options, seeking the best shoes across different categories. Our final list includes a range of slip-on styles, from lightweight loungers to stylish perforated leather designs.

Best Overall

Vessi Cityscape Shoes

The 16 Best Slip-On Sneakers for Comfort and Convenience (2)

What Stands Out

  • Despite being made of a knit material, they're 100% waterproof.

What Could Be Improved

  • They have a narrow fit and come in limited colors.

If you don't like dealing with laces, but still like the look of traditional sneakers, this pair of slip-ons is for you. The flexible knit material has a cushioned, removable insole to make you feel like you're walking on clouds. Perhaps best of all, they're 100% waterproof and breathable, so your feet won't become overheated or sweaty.

Though they have laces you can tighten for a more snug fit, they are more decorative than practical. The elastic collar around the ankle lets you slide into the sneakers—just hold the loop at the heel. The narrow fit keeps your foot in place, but the material stretches for a comfortable feel. We only wish this shoe came in more colors—the standard selection is limited to black, white, and gray, though limited edition colors appear intermittently.

Size Range: 5–11 | Material: Dyma-tex | Machine-Washable: No

What Stands Out

  • This classic slip-on is affordable and cushioned for comfort.

What Could Be Improved

  • There is not much arch support in this shoe.

When you picture a slip-on sneaker, this is probably the shoe you imagine. With a thick, flat rubber sole and canvas uppers with two elastic side gores, this style is simple enough to wear with almost any outfit. It comes in an impressive array of 22 colors, including a few with paint-splatter soles and others with tie-dye details. Some of the options also come in wide.

Keep in mind that these slip-on sneakers don’t offer much in the way of arch support. The shoes do have cushioned footbeds for some comfort, though. Also, note that this affordable model is not slip-resistant.

Size Range: 5.5–12, wide available | Material: Canvas

What Stands Out

  • They come in various colors, patterns, and materials.

What Could Be Improved

  • You may need a short break in period to wear these shoes.

With a classic skate shoe silhouette, this slip-on sneaker blends tradition with a fashion-forward chunky 1.25-inch rubber platform. Most importantly, they're still comfortable, though you might need a short break-in period to eliminate stiffness.

We love that these sneakers come in various colors and patterns for any style preference, from mauve to leopard print. They also come in many materials, including leather, suede, canvas, and non-traditional picks like raffia.

Size Range: 5–12 | Material: Leather, suede, canvas, raffia | Machine-Washable: Yes

What Stands Out

  • The leather design is ultra-durable.

What Could Be Improved

  • These shoes don’t offer much arch support.

Canvas slip-on sneakers are a classic, but can get dirty easily and wear down at pressure points. For a more durable option, try these leather slip-on sneakers from UGG. While they have a similar shape and design to canvas slip-ons, the uppers are hardy leather, which is much easier to maintain. They have a cushioned footbed for comfort, but there's not as much arch support as there could be.

The shoes, which come in black and white, also feature a beige leather heel tab and a beige leather tag along its seam with the UGG branding.

Size Range: 5–12 | Material: Leather

Best Wool

Woolloomooloo Merino Wool Slip On Shoes

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What Stands Out

  • These sweat-wicking, breathable shoes are comfortable without socks.

What Could Be Improved

  • There are no half sizes available.

These merino wool slip-on sneakers have a "digitally knitted" woven upper to ensure the material is soft yet durable, breathable yet water-resistant. (Digital knitting is like 3D printing for fabrics.) Choose from seven colors of merino wool, from mustard yellow to natural merino gray.

One of the benefits of merino wool is that you can wear these shoes without socks if you so choose. The material is naturally odor resistant and breathable so your feet won't overheat. If these slip-on sneakers get dirty, just toss them in the washing machine after removing the insoles.

Size Range: 36–47 | Material: Merino wool

Best High-Top

Birdies The Falcon

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What Stands Out

  • They have an elevated design, with a high-top side and interior wedge for added height.

What Could Be Improved

  • These slip-ons are one of the higher-priced options on our list.

If high-top slip-ons sound too good to be true, look no further than Birdies The Falcon shoes. The slip-on sneakers take a cue from Chelsea boots, with a slit down the side of the shaft to better fit your foot and a white non-slip sole that keeps the casual vibe of a traditional sneaker. Inside the shoe, there's a hidden 20-millimeter wedge for a bit of added height.

These sneakers come in four suede colors: chestnut lined with faux fur (naturally, this is better for colder weather), as well as light beige, graphite, and olive hues that you can wear year-round. One of our favorite details about these sneakers is that they're water-resistant.

Size Range: 5–12 | Material: Suede

What Stands Out

  • These shoes are made with lightweight and breathable Tencel fabric to keep your feet comfortably cool.

What Could Be Improved

  • They don’t offer a lot of underfoot support.

These knit slip-on shoes feel like a comfortable slipper rather than a sneaker—they're that easy to slide on. Made from Tencel lyocell, sugarcane-based EVA, and castor bean oil-based foam, these shoes are lightweight and, as a bonus, more sustainable than others. Allbirds offers a series of rotating limited-edition colors for its shoes, but it also has three classics that are always available: gray, white, and navy.

While these sneakers are great for easygoing activities, from running errands to seeing a movie, they're not particularly supportive. Even so, they are cushioned and soft underfoot—just not necessarily the best shoe if you spend all day on your feet.

Size Range: 5–11 | Material: Eucalyptus fiber

Best for Arch Support

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit

The 16 Best Slip-On Sneakers for Comfort and Convenience (9)

What Stands Out

  • They're one of the most supportive pairs on our list, with impressive arch support and underfoot cushioning.

What Could Be Improved

  • The athletic style may not coordinate with every outfit.

Skechers Go Walk line of sneakers is a favorite of those who need solid support underfoot, and this edition specifically targets arch support. In fact, the company worked with podiatrists to design the arch, so you know you're getting the right fit.

These slip-on sneakers are made for walking, with underfoot support that adds some pep to your step with a high-rebound effect. They might not be the most fashion-forward choice (looking more like athletic sneakers than street shoes) so they may not coordinate with every outfit. Still, the comfort is worth it—plus, we love that they’re machine washable.

Size Range: 5–11, wide available | Material: Athletic mesh knit

Best Wide

Skechers Go Walk Joy Slip-On Sneakers

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What Stands Out

  • These shoes have extra cushioning and a breathable insole.

What Could Be Improved

  • Their look is less fashion-forward.

These slip-on sneakers are the king of comfort. Skechers' Go Walk Sneakers are known for their breathable insoles made from a high-rebound, heavily-cushioned material to support your feet and knees. This pair also has additional cushioning for even more plushness.

Though the sneakers are more athletic than fashion-forward, we appreciate that they come in more than a dozen colors, from everyday neutrals to vibrant hues. The soles also have a slight platform—the 1.5-inch heel height gives you a little boost.

Size Range: 5–13, wide available | Material: Synthetic mesh | Machine-Washable: Yes

Best Perforated

Sperry Crest Twin Gore Perforated Leather Slip On Sneaker

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What Stands Out

  • The perforations add extra breathability to the sneakers.

What Could Be Improved

  • The color choices are limited.

The Sperry Perforated Slip On Sneakers are a summery take on the classic shoe—they come in pastel hues and white, and the perforated leather uppers have a fun wave pattern for added breathability.

Comfort-wise, your feet are supported by a memory foam footbed atop a flexible rubber outsole with plenty of traction for daily walking and activities. We also like the double gores and heel loop for easy-on, easy-off access, and the flexibility of the leather uppers.

Size Range: 5–12 | Material: Perforated leather | Machine-Washable: No

Best for Running

Adidas Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe

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What Stands Out

  • These casual running shoes have plenty of support and cushioning.

What Could Be Improved

  • They're only available in one width.

It might seem odd to wear running shoes without laces, but this slip-on pair has a snug, sock-like feel thanks to the thick, elastic straps across the top. Adidas is emblazoned on the straps, so if you dislike branding, these shoes might not be for you. But from a design perspective, we love that these straps secure your foot inside the lightweight, breathable knit of the uppers. The shoe also comes in various colors and patterns, particularly in the straps: There's a pair with leopard print and another with rainbow camo straps.

Though the Cloudfoam cushioning in the soles makes these shoes comfortable enough for your next workout, if you're a serious runner, we'd recommend a pair with laces, as they provide more security and stability.

Size Range: 5–12 | Material: Textile

Best Cushioned

Hoka Ora Recovery 2

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What Stands Out

  • The mesh uppers are collapsible for easy storage or packing.

What Could Be Improved

  • There are no half sizes.

When you need your feet swaddled in a comfortable cushion, there's no better slip-on sneaker than the Hoka Ora Recovery Shoe 2. Among Hoka's selections, this pair receives the highest marks for plushness, reducing the impact of walking and movement on your feet and joints. The combination of compression-molded EVA midsole, memory foam heel, and slight rocking design creates incredible comfort and ease as you walk.

Style-wise, these sneakers are a touch limited in their colorways, and they have an athletic (and almost futuristic) look. But we love that the mesh uppers are collapsible, which makes these sneakers the ideal travel shoe—it's easy to stuff them in a suitcase.

Size Range: 5–11 | Material: Mesh | Machine-Washable: No

What Stands Out

  • The range of sizes is extensive and includes wide options.

What Could Be Improved

  • These shoes don't offer much arch support.

The Vans Classic Slip-Ons, also known as Vans #98, debuted in 1979, becoming one of the go-to shoes in skate culture.

These sneakers are known for their canvas uppers, white stitching, red Vans heel tabs, and checkerboard outsoles for extra traction. Just note that these shoes don’t have much arch support, so you might want to consider adding insoles, though you have to pick a thin pair—the built-in insoles aren’t removable.

Size Range: 5–17.5, wide available | Material: Canvas | Machine-Washable: No

Best for Training

Under Armour SlipSpeed Training Shoes

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What Stands Out

  • They're convertible into slides for post-training walking.

What Could Be Improved

  • In workout mode, they're not true slip-ons, as you click the laces for the ideal fit.

If you want to hit the gym with slip-on sneakers, opt for this pair by Under Armor. While they might not be true slip-ons (they have laces for a personalized fit), the rear of the shoe folds down so you don't need to lace every time you gear up. Plus there's no tying involved—just click the lace lock into place to secure your fit.

What makes these shoes stand out is the fact that they're convertible. The heel collapses, turning the sneakers into slides for recovery mode after your workout. We love the overall construction, including the cushioned sole and the interior foam padding with cooling technology.

Size Range: 5–19.5 | Material: Mesh | Machine-Washable: Yes

Best White

Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker

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What Stands Out

  • The fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles.

What Could Be Improved

  • The blue-and-white heel stripe might not suit all styles.

Let's face it: White shoes get dirty. Thankfully, Rothy's white slip-on sneakers are machine-washable, so you won't be caught in musty or dirty off-white sneakers. Plus, its flexible fabric uppers are made from recycled single-use plastic water bottles.

For those who aren't interested in white, there are seven neutral options, plus two patterns: a python and a geometric print. Keep in mind that even though the upper fabric is flexible, the shoes don't stretch out very much over time.

Size Range: 5–13 | Material: Thread spun from plastic bottles | Machine-Washable: Yes

Best Mesh

OluKai Pehuea Slip On Sneakers

The 16 Best Slip-On Sneakers for Comfort and Convenience (17)

What Stands Out

  • These slip-ons offer great arch support.

What Could Be Improved

  • Only the insole is washable.

If you want a fashion-forward pair of sneakers with a mesh upper, these slip-ons do the trick. OluKai was inspired by the sensation of bare feet in the sand, which contributed to the feel of these lightweight, airy shoes—the cushioned footbeds provide comfort and anatomical support. Plus, a portion of the proceeds from each pair sold goes to the Ama OluKai Foundation, which supports Hawaiian communities.

Beyond the breezy mesh, highlights of this comfortable shoe include a collapsible heel that converts the sneaker into a mule, washable removable insoles, and earth-toned colorways.

Size Range: 5–12 | Material: Breathable mesh | Machine-Washable: Insole only

Final Verdict

Our top pick is the Vessi Cityscape Classic for its incredibly versatile and comfortable design that seamlessly transitions from workout to weekly errands. For those who want an affordable pair of slip-ons for neighborhood errands, opt for the Lugz Women’s Clipper Sneaker, which has a simple silhouette that can go with any outfit.

How to Shop for Slip-On Sneakers Like a Pro

Comfort

Comfort depends on your unique foot shape, but there are some features that can improve the overall comfort of your slip-on sneakers regardless of your foot. Look for cushioned insoles to help with shock absorption and a sturdy sole that supports your foot, like the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit. As when shopping for comfortable slides, consider where you need additional support or padding, whether on the arches for those with high feet or a larger toe box if you have wide feet.

Material

Consider whether you want your shoes to be lightweight, waterproof, or have a particular finish—materials will come into play in all cases. We recommend breathable materials for good ventilation, as your feet can get hot as you walk around. Sometimes you'll have to make a tradeoff for a specific look, like leather, which is undeniably stylish but can get stuffy on warm days.

Style

Slip-on sneakers come in many styles, from casual street shoes to high-fashion options. Consider your existing closet and the occasions you'll wear slip-on sneakers the most. For those who like minimalist styling and only need slip-ons for running errands, opt for a simple, single-toned shoe, like the Lugz Women’s Clipper Sneaker. But if you have a colorful, eclectic style, feel free to explore with bright shades, patterns, and funky design features.

Sizing and Fit

"Shoes that are too big or too small can cause rubbing in certain areas, which increases your risk of forming a blister," says Sondema N. Tarr, DPM, a podiatrist and owner of Direct Podiatry Arizona. You can measure your shoe size at home and compare those measurements to the size chart to find the right fit. We also recommend browsing the reviews, as some may note that the shoe runs slightly large or small, depending on the brand and style.

Questions You Might Ask

Are slip-on sneakers good for walking?

Slip-on sneakers can be decent for walking, but it depends on their construction. "Shoes should have a sturdy yet slightly cushioned sole that's unable to be folded on itself at the arch. This provides the foot with added support to walk for long distances pain-free," says Dr. Tarr.

Ultimately, though, laces are the way to go. "In general, when possible, laces are best," says Sean Peden, MD, an assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Yale University. Dr. Peden notes that "some people are limited and have trouble lacing due to joint stiffness or lack of flexibility," which is when slip-on sneakers can come in handy.

How long do slip-on sneakers last?

The lifespan of your slip-on sneakers depends on their quality of materials, amount of wear, and how you maintain them. If your slip-on sneakers are high quality, they may last some time. But if they're low-quality, they could wear down quickly. On average, a pair of everyday sneakers can last about 500 miles.

Do you wear socks with slip-on sneakers?

Ultimately, whether you wear socks with your slip-on sneakers is determined by your personal preferences. Socks can prevent blisters from forming on your feet, and they can be moisture-wicking. That said, some slip-on sneakers, like the Woolloomooloo Suffolk Merino Wool Slip On Shoes, are designed so they can be worn barefoot—in this case, the shoe will be breathable.

How should slip-on sneakers fit?

Slip-on sneakers should have about one finger's width of extra space between the top of your toes and the edge of the sneaker, which gives your feet space to swell and move a bit throughout the day. Having room (but not too much room) in the toe box also helps prevent blisters. You can check for this space by pressing on the box of your shoe and assessing the amount of room between your big toe and the upper.

Alternatively, you can push your feet to the front of the shoe and stick a finger between your heel and the shoe—there should be a finger's width of space there. As for your heel, it should not slip in and out of the shoe while walking.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Stefanie Waldek. Stefanie is a contributing writer for Real Simple with nine years of writing experience and four years of experience reviewing products. To find these recommendations, Stefanie spent hours researching slip-on shoes, relying on her experience as a travel writer who walks fair distances over varied terrain while comparing materials, design, price, and style. She also spoke with Zoé DuFour, an expert stylist; Sondema N. Tarr, DPM, a podiatrist and owner of Direct Podiatry Arizona; and Sean Peden, MD, an assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Yale University.

The 16 Best Slip-On Sneakers for Comfort and Convenience (2024)
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