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The 15 Best Slip-On Shoes for Women, According to Testers, Stylists, and a Podiatrist

You don't have to sacrifice style with these comfortable and supportive slip-on shoes

A Person Wearing Olukai Pehuea Women's Sneakers
Photo:

People / Taylor Fox

Most of us have a go-to shoe for quick errands or dog walking. It’s easy to put on, comfortable, and often uncomplicated. Slip-on shoes meet these needs perfectly, from easy-to-wear clogs and loafers to comfortable sneakers made for all-day wear, and they’re more stylish than ever.

Experts Say

“When people think of slip-on shoes, most people would associate them with the comfort of a flat [or a] slip-on sneaker with no laces. However, a slip-on can reference a few different styles. The definition of a ‘slip-on’ shoe can be a sneaker with or without laces, a loafer, a dressy flat, or even a heeled mule.”Holly Katz of the Fashion Crimes podcast

To help you find your next favorite pair, we rounded up some of the most popular slip-on styles, from booties to sneakers. We also tested 40 of the top-rated pairs in our PEOPLE Tested labs and at home for comfort, design, ease of entry, and support.

These are the best slip-on shoes for women that PEOPLE Tested.

Star Qualities
  • Comfortable right out of the box

  • Padded arch support

  • Flexible yet sturdy rubber sole

Red Flags
  • None we noted

If you're looking for a comfortable shoe, the Olukai Pehuea sneaker impressed us right out of the box with elegant construction and cushy arch support. We easily slipped on the drop-in-heel shoes and wore them upwards of nine hours a day during testing to confirm that these sneakers are not just stylish but also supremely comfortable. Their substantial arch support and breathable tops kept our feet feeling cushioned and cool even on long, hot walks.

The slip-on style didn’t slip off our heels while we walked for miles. The insole is flexible but not flimsy, with a solid rubber footbed that held up perfectly through our tests. While the price is high, after wearing the Olukai slip-on sneakers for multiple nine-hour days, we expect that these attractive, supportive, and sturdy sneakers will last for seasons to come, so they’re worth it. 

Size Range: 5-12 | Upper Material: Breathable mesh | Heel Height: Flat

Star Qualities
  • Cushy footbed

  • Outsoles provide good traction

  • High-quality materials

Red Flags
  • Often sell out in most popular colorways

While these look like a typical cute pair of slip-on sneakers, inside, they’re so much more. These shoes felt comfortable right out of the box but became even more comfortable in our tests as the supportive soles contoured to our foot shape. 

Through eight-hour days of wear, while walking, working, and standing, the Marianne slip-on sneaker provided us with crucial arch support that kept us comfortable and pain-free. We also loved the padded heels, which prevented any chafing or uncomfortable rubbing. The outsole provided grippy traction that helped us feel safe walking on any surface. From the outside, these Naturalizer sneakers look like a pair of stylish, sleek sneakers that can be dressed up or down, but once you try a pair, it’s clear that they were designed with both style and comfort in mind (and all for a super reasonable price for the quality).

Size Range: 4-12 | Upper Material: Leather, cotton | Heel Height: Flat

Feet wearing the Naturalizer Marianne Slip-on Loafers

People / Lucy Silberman

Star Qualities
  • Sturdy rubber sole

  • Cork footbed naturally molds to shape of feet

Red Flags
  • One of the most expensive options on our list

The celebrity fave Birkenstock brand is known for ultra-comfortable shoes, and it's certainly having a huge resurgence. But its range of comfortable, slip-on shoes ranges far beyond the famous buckled sandals — these canvas slip-ons are designed specifically for all-day wear and comfort, too, so they’re great for days where you’re on your feet constantly.

They have a flexible rubber sole that is comfortable and sturdy and a cork footbed that naturally molds to the shape of your feet. These shoes are pricey, but they just get better with time, so we think they're worth it.

Size Range: 5-12.5 | Upper Material: Open-pored, flexible suede and high-quality, untreated natural leather | Heel Height: Flat

Star Qualities
  • Warm and cozy

  • On-trend design

  • Great for daily wear

Red Flags
  • Limited arch support

As style and beauty expert Emily Loftiss says, “Let's be honest, when your feet hurt — all you want are your Uggs. These mini boots are all the rage. Choose from nearly 20 colors and be stylish and cozy.” Not only are Ugg's mini boots super on-trend, but they’re the same level of comfort and warmth that you remember from the slightly taller Ugg boots you probably owned 15 years ago.

While they are comfy, they do have limited arch support, so they may not be ideal for all foot types.

Size Range: 5-12 | Upper Material: Dyed sheep fur | Heel Height: 1 inch

Star Qualities
  • Slipper-like feel

  • High-traction outsoles

Red Flags
  • Might not be appropriate for more formal occasions

You probably know at least one person in your life who is a huge fan of these famous North Face slip-ons. If you’re looking for a pair of slip-ons that seamlessly transition from indoors to outdoors while keeping your feet warm and comfortable, these highly rated shoes are for you.

They have a slipper-like feel paired with high traction outsoles that you can safely wear in all different conditions. While super cute, the slipper style might not be appropriate for work and more formal occasions.

Size Range: 5-11 | Upper Material: 100%-recycled ripstop upper finished with durable water repellent (DWR) | Heel Height: Flat

Editors Say

"There are few things better than taking off hiking boots after a long hike and slipping your feet into these North Face slip-ons at the campsite. Not just for outdoor enthusiasts, these ultra-warm shoes are perfect for trekking to the mailbox or wearing around the house as slippers. I even wear mine to the spin studio so I can slip into my cycling shoes quickly before class." — Kayla Kitts, shopping editor

Star Qualities
  • Stylish, trendy shape appropriate for office or casual outings

  • Extra cushioned heel pads

  • Great value for the quality

Red Flags
  • Some wearers wish they had more support

These loafers are a favorite shoe of celebrity stylist Liv Schreiber, who says she often gets compliments on her favorite pink pair. "I have the hot pink Wren Loafers and the cow print Cora Loafers from Hush Puppies,” Schreiber says. “They're under $100 and beyond comfortable. Pair with jeans and a neutral sweater if you choose vibrant colors. I've actually been stopped in the street wearing my hot pink pair.”

We love the stylish, trendy shape that can take us from the office to any casual setting. These slip-ons also feature extra cushioned heel pads to help prevent rubbing and blisters. While we think they are a great value for the quality and style, some shoppers note that they wish these shoes provided more support.

Size Range: 6-12 | Upper Material: Leather, nubuck, or suede | Heel Height: Flat

Star Qualities
  • Excellent arch and heel support

  • Rocker bottom

Red Flags
  • Closed heel

Podiatrist Timothy Oldani, DPM, FACFAS, says that his number one recommendation for professionals who are on their feet all day long is these clogs, particularly when it comes to those in the medical profession because of their construction, design, and overall support. 

“These clogs have been a favorite of nurses and operating room workers for years. This is because of the immense support provided through the arch and heel. They also feature a rocker bottom design that helps to limit pressure on the toes and ball of the foot,” Dr. Oldani says. “These do have a closed heel, but the design allows for motion up and down without any side-to-side movement of the heel when walking." While they are one of the more costly options on our list, if you're on your feet all day, they are most definitely worth it.

Size Range: 4.5-13 | Upper Material: Waterproof leather | Heel Height: 1-1.75 inches

Star Qualiites
  • Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)

  • Lightweight and slip-resistant sole

Red Flags
  • Not the most stylish-looking shoes

These slip-ons are a go-to choice of fashion stylist Liz Teich, who names them as the most comfortable shoes that she owns. "I've been recommending them to everyone I know, including my clients. It comes in a few colors, but the mauve knit has been my go-to pick for fall because it looks so great paired with the monochromatic pink pieces that have been trending [this past] season,” Teich explains. “If you tend to wear black leggings, the black slip-ons are so chic and elongating to wear as well."

We also appreciate the lightweight, slip-resistant sole, and the molded footbed that just gets more comfortable over time. While these might not be the most stylish shoes you can buy, they are accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association for "promoting good foot health."

Size Range: 4-12 | Upper Material: Microfiber | Heel Height: 1 inch

Best for Seniors

Naot Spring 1000

Naot Spring 1000
PHOTO: Naot
Star Qualities
  • Footbed conforms to your foot shape

  • Great arch support

Red Flags
  • One of the more expensive options

Though Dr. Oldani didn’t recommend these specifically for seniors, he did note they are great shoes for those with bunions or hammertoes, both of which can be more common in those with aging feet. “These clogs have the classic Naot cork and latex foot bed, which conforms to the foot with every use and provides excellent support through the arch,” Dr. Oldani explains.

While these are pricey, like other shoes from the brand, these are accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association for "promoting good foot health."

Size Range: 4-11 | Upper Material: EVA | Heel Height: 1.25 inches

Star Qualities
  • Timeless design

  • Great traction

  • Feel more weighty and substantial than some other shoes we tried

Red Flags
  • May take some time to break in

It doesn’t get more classic than Vans slip-on sneakers (and yes, they come in leather, too!). They have a stylish and timeless design that is ideal for anyone searching for a slip-on shoe that can more easily transition from casual settings to something a little more professional.

We put the classic Vans sneakers to the test, wearing them for up to 10 hours at a time. We were surprised at how comfortable these were, and also the weightiness that made them feel more substantial than some other slip-ons we’ve tried. We didn’t experience any blisters but did note a little rubbing on the back of the heel after a long day of breaking them in. The outsoles provide grippy traction, which might also contribute to the shoe’s stiffness at first, but we didn’t mind the lack of bend in the footbed because of the shoe's solid and sturdy feel.

Size Range: 5-17.5 | Upper Material: Leather | Heel Height: Flat

Editors Say

"I have been wearing Vans slip-on sneakers for more than 20 years. They're my go-to sneaker for just about any occasion and outfit, from dresses to jeans to leggings. As a short woman, I love my checkerboard platforms which offer double the height of the classic sneakers with the same level of comfort." — Kayla Kitts, shopping editor

Star Qualities
  • Comfortable medium weight

  • Supportive foam inserts

  • Felt stable on various outdoor surfaces

Red Flags
  • Slightly heavier than some other options we tested

For comfortable sneakers or shoes that are particularly good for your feet, Dr. Scholl’s is famous for good reason — and our tests proved that to be true. The Madison Slip-Ons feature supportive foam inserts and offer great arch support (which was much appreciated by our high-arched testers). 

They’re a pick from Loftiss, who loves these slip-ons in the nude colorway and notes that Dr. Scholl’s shoes are designed for optimal comfort: “Dr. Scholls has sustainable insole technology with anatomical cushioning, comfort, and support,” she says. Through weeks of walking, we found that these sneakers delivered on their promise of comfort. The Madison sneakers have slightly more weight to them than some of the other options, but that, along with the grippy outsoles, made them feel more comfortable when walking outdoors, Even walking on snow, we felt stable and confident in these slip-on sneakers.

Size Range: 6-11 | Upper Material: Faux leather, fabric, canvas, mesh, or microfiber made from recycled bottles | Heel Height: 1.25 inches

Star Qualities
  • Three-zone comfort promotes foot stability, alignment, and support

  • Designed by podiatrists

Red Flags
  • Not suitable for all occasions

Vionic is known for ultra-comfortable, wearable footwear, and this particular shoe was even designed by podiatrists. Every pair of Vionic shoes comes with “three-zone” comfort, which promotes stability and natural alignment. This is particularly great for people with flat feet, high arches, bunions, heel spurs, and lower back pain.

These shoes do have a casual style, so they may not be suitable for formal office environments.

Size Range: 6-12 | Upper Material: Textile and man-made upper | Heel Height: Flat

Star Qualities
  • Cushy footbed

  • Available in multiple colors and patterns

Red Flags
  • One of the more expensive options

With over 33,000 reviews, Birdies are regularly called "cloud-like" when it comes to comfort — and they’re stylish, too. If you need a comfortable flat that can be as cozy as a slipper but also professional and formal enough for a work or social setting, these are your best bet.

They come in a variety of materials including vegan velvet, leather, suede, and basket weave, and sizes (including wide) from 5 to 13. While they are a bit pricey, we think the quality, comfort, and style are worth it.

Size Range: 5-13 | Upper Material: Vegan velvet, leather, knit, suede, basket weave | Heel Height: Flat

Star Qualities
  • Leg-lengthening fit

  • Sneaker-like comfort

Red Flags
  • Might be a bit difficult to walk in at first

If height is what you’re after, these Dr. Scholl's wedges will give you just the right boost while prioritizing all-day comfort and support as well. The wedge style gives them a leg-lengthening fit, and the cushioned insoles give them sneaker-like comfort. Plus, they still look just as casual and versatile as a regular pair of slip-on sneakers.

The heel might feel a bit more difficult to walk in than flat sneakers, at least at first.

Size Range: 6-11 | Upper Material: Faux leather or fabric upper | Heel Height: 2-inch hidden wedge

Best for Flat Feet

Kuru Stride

Kuru Stride
PHOTO: Kuru
Star Qualities
  • Heel-to-toe drop designed for comfort and support

  • Lightweight and breathable

Red Flags
  • Some may find that the heel slips off while walking

Specifically designed for arch support, these sneakers feature an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, which serves to even out pressure across the foot for optimal comfort and support, no matter how flat your feet may be. They’re also lightweight and breathable, which makes for a more comfortable experience, especially in warm weather (or if you tend to get sweaty feet). One downside is that some wearers may find that their heel slips out of the shoe as they walk, depending on their gait.

Size Range: 5-12 | Upper Material: Synthetic knit | Heel Height: Flat

Add to Cart

Searching for slip-on shoes for women? You might also be interested in the following PEOPLE-Tested products that won us over in our testing. Add them to your cart to complete your look.

What to Know About Slip-On Shoes for Women

Support

The first and most important quality to consider in a slip-on shoe is its support. “Ideally, the slip-on shoe will be just as supportive as a regular tennis shoe,” Dr. Oldani explains. “It will provide good support through the arch with an insole material that is semi-rigid, such as cork or dense rubber.” For those who need more arch support, the Vionic Supportive Walking Sneakers are a great option.

Sole 

A firm outer sole is also key, according to Dr. Oldani, as it helps limit the motion of the joints when walking. “It should also provide adequate shock absorption under the ball of the foot. Essentially, the slip-on shoe should be very similar to one's normal shoes,” he says. For outdoor use, a grippy outsole is important to make sure that you don’t slip on various terrains. Some slip-on shoes for women, like The North Face Slip-On, offer helpful traction on the bottom of the shoe to help you avoid slipping.

Secure Fit 

Of course, the best part of a slip-on shoe for women is the convenience of being able to easily put it on your feet, but this doesn’t mean it should feel flimsy. “The shoe or sandal should still be secure to the front part of the foot to avoid a lot of motion or slippage with walking, which could lead to blisters,” Dr. Oldani explains. 

Allbirds Wool Loungers

People / Julia Warren

Behind the Scenes

To find out which slip-on shoes for women are truly the best of the best, we put over 40 pairs of the most popular shoes to the test in our PEOPLE Tested labs and out in the real world.

  • Evaluation: We started by inspecting each pair of slip-on shoes straight out of the box, noting the material and amount of bend in the arch and outsole.
  • Comfort Level: We then put the shoes on, noting the initial comfort level and ease of entry into the slip-on shoes. 
  • Long-Term Wear: We continued to wear the shoes over two weeks for at least five hours per wear, walking in them on various surfaces including grass, pavement, and snow. We gained insight into each shoe's comfort, style, and feel during this time.

We then included some of our favorite picks, along with high-rated and expert-recommended shoes, to create a comprehensive list of the best slip-on shoes for women. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the benefits of slip-on shoes for women?

    Slip-on shoes for women aren’t ideal for every situation. However, there are certain conditions when they are a great option.


    The first group who benefits from slip-on shoes are people who have Achilles tendon issues or posterior heel spurs, for example. “This is because of the open-heeled nature of many slip-on shoes — there will be no pressure on the Achilles or heel spur. This will lead to much more comfort in these situations,” Dr. Oldani explains. "Those with plantar fasciitis, or plantar heel pain, will usually see worsening of their pain with walking or standing when barefoot. I recommend most people with plantar fasciitis never go barefoot,” he says, so slip-ons can be a good choice.


    Oldani says that slip-on shoes are a great option for wearing around the house and providing arch and plantar fascia support without having to wear a typical shoe. Plus, they weigh less than a typical shoe. “They will tend to be lighter in weight, which can be an attractive characteristic for those that are on their feet all day,” Oldani says. If you're looking for a lightweight slip-on shoe for women, we love the Naot Okahu Shoe.


  • Can you wear socks with slip-on shoes?

    As a general rule, socks are a great way to prevent excess sweating, odor, and blisters whether you're wearing sneakers or slip-on shoes for women. 


  • Are slip-on shoes professional?

    There are slip-on shoes for women that are appropriate for almost every profession and occasion. In fact, for some professions, they are ideal. Dr. Oldani notes specific slip-on shoes as ideal options for nurses and doctors, for example, like the Dansko XP 2.0 clogs.

Why Trust PEOPLE?

Olivia Muenter is a writer who has written for numerous outlets such as Refinery29, Glamour, and Byrdie. She is also a co-host of the lifestyle podcast Bad on Paper. For this piece, she aimed to cover retailers of all types for people of varying household incomes. For criteria, she evaluated specific, expert-backed recommendations from celebrity stylists, fashion pros, and podiatrists. She also combed through manufacturer insights, customer reviews, shoe materials, versatility, and design.

This story was updated by Cai Cramer, a PEOPLE commerce staff writer who covers products across the beauty, fashion, health, and lifestyle spaces. She added real-world testing insights on the comfort, feel, and support of the best slip-on shoes for women from our PEOPLE Tested lab.

Our Expert Panel

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

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