Some days you just can’t be bothered with shoelaces (or if you’re like me, you don’t want to be seen still using the bunny ears lace-tying method at 34 years old). Or you’re pregnant and bending over is just too much right now. Or you need something you can slide into quickly as you race out the door to work. No matter your reasons, these are the best slip-ons for women, chosen for their versatility, comfort, durability and overall aesthetics according to PureWow editors who’ve worn them all. Plus, we asked three podiatrists what we should be looking for in a slip-on sneaker to ensure these seven styles hit the mark, and to give us some tools should we need more options. Read on for everything you need to know to find the best slip-on sneaker for you.
The 7 Best Slip-On Sneakers, Vetted by Editors Who Walk Literally Everywhere
Slip ‘em on and go
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
The Best Slip-On Sneakers at a Glance
Best Overall Slip-On Sneaker
Allbirds Lounger Lift
read more
Best Under-$100 Slip-On Sneakers
Dr Scholl’s Madison Cloud Slip-On Sneakers
read more
Best Athleisure Slip-On Sneakers
Kuru Flex Slip-On Sneakers
read more
Best Machine-Washable Slip-On Sneaker
Rothy’s The Original Slip-On Sneakers
read more
Best Drawcord Lace-Up Sneakers
Kizik London Sneakers
read more
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.
- Dr. Stella Chiunda, DPM, is an orthopedic surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. She attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham and earned her medical degree from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine at Kent State University before completing her residency at the Cleveland Clinic and Kaiser Permanente Medical Center.
How We Tested the Best Slip-On Sneakers
“Fit and comfort should be the most important factors,” says Dr. Chiunda. With that as my North star, I first reached out to the PureWow team to see what recommendations they had for slip-on sneakers than can withstand a busy NYC editor’s lifestyle with aplomb. Next, I researched the top reviewed brands and styles to see what others had to say about our team’s favorites. Specifically, I made note of the following:
- Comfort. Are these sneakers comfortable for a full day of walking or standing?
- Support. Do the soles offer enough support for those with high arches, bunions, plantar fasciitis or other common foot ailments?
- Durability. Will these sneakers last for more than just a few months with proper care?
- Aesthetics. Do they look cool? Can they be worn with a variety of wardrobe staples?
- Value. Are these sneakers worth the money given all the above factors?
Best Overall Slip-On Sneaker
What We Like
- platform adds some height
- eco-friendly
- lots of great neutral color options
What We Don’t Like
- only available in one width
- reportedly runs a little small
Allbirds
These Allbirds cuties have that classic, sleek slip-on silhouette with just enough of a boost in height thanks to an extra-thick sole. Even better? According to Associate Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera they’re wildly comfortable straight out of the box. “I couldn't believe how comfy these slip-ons from Allbirds were from the second I took them out of the box,” she tells me. “The footbed is cushy but still supportive, and I love that there's padding at the ankles to keep them from feeling too stiff.” And like all Allbirds designs, these sneakers are made using sustainable methods and eco-friend materials, like organic cotton, merino wool and a sugarcane-based green EVA midsole. They come in a range of very pretty neutral hues, including muted navy and cozy shearling, but I should note that some reviewers found the tow box ran a bit short. So if you’re between sizes, you may want to consider going up a half size from your usual when ordering.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Materials: organic cotton canvas upper with foam sole
Best Under-$100 Slip-On Sneakers
2. Dr. Scholl’s Madison Cloud Slip-On Sneakers
What We Like
- under $100
- available in standard and wide widths
- lots of great neutral color options
What We Don’t Like
- fairly small size range
- may be too wide for those with narrow feet
Dr. Scholl’s
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get comfortable support and a cute sneaker, and these Dr. Scholl’s beauties are the proof. They truly live up to their “Cloud” name with a super-cushy insole and lots of room in the toe box. They eco-friendly insoles are also anti-microbial which means they’re way better at warding off stink and odor, even in peak summer. As per Dr. Chiunda’s advice, these slip-on sneakers are fairly flexible, despite all that support, so they can comfortably move with your feet whether you’re walking, standing or just hanging out. In fact, according to one Dr. Scholl’s reviewer, they’re a fabulous option for those who work on their feet all day. “Super comfortable for 8-plus hour shifts. I can be on my feet all day and feel no discomfort. Plus, they’re quick and easy to slip on. The only thing is they do scuff up fairly quickly, but nothing too bad.” And while the roomy fit is great for anyone with wider feet or bunions, some with narrow feet felt there was too much room in the standard width unless they wore fairly thick socks.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 6 to 11
- Materials:
Best Athleisure Slip-On Sneakers
What We Like
- cool, sporty look
- hands-free design
- roomy footbed
What We Don’t Like
- only available in one width
- few color options
Kuru
For the gal who lives in leggings and tennis dresses, these Kuru sneakers have a sporty look with ample support and are totally hands-free so you can run out the door in a jiffy. “I got these for the last few weeks of pregnancy (aka when you can't bend down to tie your shoes) and they've become my go-to!” raves Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay. “The slip-on feature is seamless and hands-free, and the overall design feels just as cool as my usual Nikes. I was nervous the rigid heel would cause blisters on my ankle or Achilles, but there was zero discomfort right out of the box. Plus, they feature a special heel-hugging technology for all-day support, as well as a wide footbed that helped accommodate any sizing fluctuations I experienced due to swelling.” Plus, Kuru has a whole range of styles designed to address tons of foot issues, like plantar fasciitis or heel pain, many of which are also super-easy slip-ons.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 6 to 11
- Materials: mesh and synthetic suede upper with a rubber sole
Best Machine-Washable Slip-On Sneaker
4. Rothy’s The Original Slip-On Sneakers
What We Like
- under $100
- machine washable
- lots of great neutral color options
What We Don’t Like
- reportedly run a bit narrow
- only available in one width
Rothy’s
Ever since launching in 2016, Rothy’s has made a name for itself with its ridiculously comfy shoes you don’t have to be precious with. Even Meghan Markle is a fan of the brand’s OG flats. “I am consistently impressed with Rothy’s shoes, both for the comfort level and ease of care,” says Director of Special Projects and Royals, Rachel Bowie. “I’ve had multiple pairs of shoes, flats and sneakers, for a few years now and they still look brand new.” The knit uppers, made from recycled water bottles, are particularly notable for their comfort right out of the box, so you don’t have to worry about blisters or skin irritation. They’re also incredibly breathable and can be tossed in the wash once you remove the midsole (though Rothy’s recommends skipping the dryer), a bonus for those who don’t want to bother with socks. Associate SEO Editor Marissa Wu is also a fan of these easy slip-on kicks. “They’re easy to pair with lots of outfits, washable, made of recycled plastic and have a sturdy footbed, which is essential for my flat feet,” she explains. “I’d say they run a little narrow but the material is super flexible so for me it’s a good compromise between style and comfort”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 13
- Materials: not listed
Best Drawcord Lace-Up Sneakers
What We Like
- look more like a classic sneaker
- available in standard and wide widths
- roomy toe box
What We Don’t Like
- limited color options
- not great for standing all day
Kizik
Kizik sneakers have a unique design that allows you to slip them on and off, totally hands-free, without damaging the back of the heel over time. There are multiple styles to choose from, but Executive Editor Alexia Dellner is partial to the London for its comfortable, breathable mesh upper and roomy footbed. “They're sooooo comfy!” she raves. “They also have the added benefit of being very pregnancy-friendly (I can slip them on without having to bend over, or ahem, ask my husband to put them on for me). I have wide feet and a high arch (lucky me) so it can be hard to find sneakers that don’t squeeze in the wrong places and aren’t a size too big. The Kizik London sneakers manage to cushion my feet without feeling tight, and I didn't need to size up like I sometimes have to with other shoes.” Indeed, reviews suggest these run true to size. Per one reviewer with self-proclaimed wide, flat feet, “These are great. [The] sneakers are comfortable and supportive and easy to slip on, which is great when you’re out the door walking the dogs at 5:30 am.”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 6 to 13
- Materials: knit and leather upper with a rubber sole
Best Slip-On Sneakers for Travel
What We Like
- 100-percent vegan
- machine washable
- great for running or working out
What We Don’t Like
- high price point
- only available in one width
APL
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 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, and has the added bonus of being 100-percent vegan. These shoes can also double as workout or running sneakers, making them even more versatile for a vacation.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Materials: Techloom knit upper with a rubber sole
Best Timeless Design
7. Vans Checkered Slip-On Sneakers
What We Like
- under $100
- wide range of sizes
- classic look
What We Don’t Like
- not a ton of support
- only available in one width
Vans
I’ve wanted a pair of black-and-white checkerboard Vans since middle school, and two years ago I finally indulged my inner tween and bought them. And they were 100 percent everything I hoped they’d be. There’s a reason Vans slip-ons are considered such a classic—they have a sleek, unfussy look that pairs just as well with jeans as it does with dresses or trousers. And they require little to no breaking in, which is a major bonus for my blister-prone feet. Of course, if the iconic checkerboard print isn’t your vibe (in any of the 15 different color variations), the solid-colored version is just as comfortable. I will admit, however, that these sneakers do not have a ton of built-in support. So if you have bunions or other issues you may want to go a half size up to better fit your own more supportive insoles.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 5 to 17.5
- Materials: canvas upper with a rubber sole
What Is the Best Overall Slip-On Sneaker?
This is really going to come down to the individual—for some a super-cushy sole will always reign supreme, while others might prioritize the timeless vibes of checkerboard Vans. All the slip-on sneakers on this list come highly recommended by editors with a variety of needs and wants. I suggest making note of exactly what features you love most in the sneakers you already own, then seek those out in a slip-on pair.
What to Look for When Shopping for 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.
Test Them with a Bend and Snap. 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.
Support Is Just as Important as Comfort. “Look for not only a comfortable sneaker but also one that offers support,” Dr. Sutera notes. “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.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Brand of Sneakers Is 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.”
If you have particular foot concerns, such as plantar fasciitis or high arches, chat with a podiatrist to find the best slip-ons for your needs.
What Are the Most Comfortable Slip-On Sneakers?
Honestly, that depends on you. Podiatrists generally recommend that the most comfortable slip-ons prioritize soft, breathable fabrics, sturdy arch support and cushion.
Should Slip-On Sneakers Be Tight or Loose?
Slip-ons should be snug, but not too tight, says Dr. Chiunda. When you try them on, shoes should stay firmly on while walking without pinching your toes or causing pain. Look for options with a little breathing room to accommodate foot swelling that can happen when feet get warm. You should also prioritize stretchy materials that form to your foot. Lastly, check for stability in the sole. To do this, hold the shoe at the widest part of the front with your other hand on the heel, says Dr. Chiunda. Then twist the shoe. If it twists easily, put it back. You want one that resists the twist and protects your foot when walking.
