9 Best Slippers for Your Feet, According to Podiatrists
Updated: Jan. 27, 2021
Treat your feet well with these podiatrist-recommended slippers and slides.
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Keep your tootsies cozy
Our feet are entering new territory these days, thanks to shelter-in-place requirements. “For most people, working from home is a new situation,” says Robert Fridman, president of the Northeast Division of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and podiatrist at Foot Associates in New York City. “It is commonplace to walk barefoot or in socks at home. The issue is our feet are not used to this for an extended period, and the lack of support can lead to issues.”
What issues exactly? Walking on hard floors without proper support—in socks or bad slippers—can lead to poor circulation, joint pain, plantar fasciitis, and even fractures, explains Velimir Petkov, board-certified podiatrist at Premier Podiatry in Clifton, New Jersey. “Your feet’s fat pads diminish over time, which is known as fat pad atrophy and can lead to increased pressure, pain, or burning sensation,” he says.
However, a good pair of supportive slippers can help. Just be sure to choose based on fit, comfort, and ergonomics—only then should you consider style, warns Petkov “Buying a pair of slippers should be an investment in your foot health, as much as it is a fashion statement choice. I am a big fan of choosing slippers that cradle and support your heel, as plantar fasciitis is the number one complaint that brings patients to my office.”
Other important qualities your slippers should have, says Fridman, are good arch support, cushioned forefoot and heel, and a sturdy, but mildly flexible construction. If you’re not sure where to find slippers that fit your feet, don’t worry: These podiatrists helped us find the best choices on Amazon.
Vionic Women’s Indulge Sadie Mule Slipper
$36- $90, depending on size and color
Fashion meets function with this slipper, which earned the slipper the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Approval. “The footbed has been designed by podiatrists to provide stability,” explains Petkov. “The adjustable strap ensures that they will fit properly on your foot. And the outer sole is rubber which makes them ideal if you need to walk outside for a few minutes to grab your mail or throw the trash out, too.” Be sure to check out the best walking shoes for your feet.
Crocs Unisex Classic Blitzen III Clog
$17-$72, depending on color and size
While you might not make friends wearing these out in public with socks, they’re great for home use. “They tick all the boxes in terms of comfort and good ergonomics for your feet, and they’re inexpensive and are easily washable,” says Fridman. “Many surgeons, myself included, wear the medical version of Crocs in the operating room for these exact reasons.” Choose from black, light grey, brown, navy, slate grey, burgundy, or pink.
Orthofeet Orthopedic Leather Women’s Slippers Charlotte
$90
You’ll have ample amount of time to decide if you like these slippers, thanks to a generous 60-day test period offered by Orthofeet. “These slippers have an ergonomic sole with air cushioning that increases the comfort level,” explains Petkov. “I love that the designers haven’t forgotten about the insoles, too, which feature anatomical arch support and different layers for added softness.” Bonus: They come in wide sizes, too.
Steggman Women’s Wool Felt Clog with Cork Sole
$115-$130, depending on color and size
Handcrafted in the USA, these clogs are made out of one piece of wool, and the seamless design eliminates the possibility of chafing or rubbing. “This pair of slippers provides excellent support due to its anatomically correct footbed and included metatarsal pad,” says Petkov. “The heel cup is deep and helps keep plantar fasciitis flares down. These slippers provide a sturdy feel and the rubber traction sole is great if you need to walk outdoors for any reason.”
Hoka One One Men’s Ora Recovery Slide Sandal
$78- $116
These might not look like your traditional warm, fluffy slippers, but that doesn’t mean you should write them off. “There’s a reason distance runners love to use recovery sandals after a race—they’re light, breathable, supportive, and cushioned, with enough of a heel drop to relieve tired calf muscles,” explains Fridman. This pair may be ideal after a long day on your feet at work, too. “They do have a chunkier look, which some people find unattractive, but you’re wearing them at home, so that is not an issue. This is actually what I personally wear at home.”
Ugg Women’s Fluff Yeah Slide Slipper
$100
Slip on this plush pair and let your feet enjoy the comfort and fluffy feeling. They come in 16 different colorways, so you’re bound to find one you like. “The ankle strap will help keep your foot from sliding around,” explains Fridman. Unlike most open back slippers, the strap also allows your foot to relax instead of working overtime to keep the shoe on your foot. And it doesn’t hurt to feel like you’re walking on clouds.
Sorel Women’s Nakiska Slipper
$51- $90 depending on size and color
If you’re sensitive to the cold, these suede slippers with a faux fur lining will heat you right up. “These have a nice EVA-footbed for increased cushioning and a natural rubber sole to provide traction to prevent you from slipping,” says Fridman. The footbed is removable, too, so it can be replaced with custom orthotics if need be. They’re a great combination of warmth and comfort.
Oofos Recovery Sandal
$25- $116, depending on size and color
These aren’t your typical pair of flip flops, which can be pretty harmful to your feet. Wearing this pair of sandals in the house as your slippers can do your feet a favor. “The foam in Oofos has a lot of absorption and can really help reduce stress on the feet, knees, and lower back,” says Fridman. “It has a higher arch support, which may be advantageous to some people looking for a more snug feel in the arch. The thong version is not as durable as the slide version and has a tendency to rip over time, so I recommend the slides.”
Orthaheel Relax Slippers
$60
Adjust the strap on these slippers for a fit unique to your foot. This feature ensures that your slippers aren’t too tight or too loose. “The midsole is made of EVA, which helps with shock absorption when walking around on hard floors,” says Petkov. “They are relatively open and can give you that barefoot feel without compromising comfort and foot health.” Plus, the interior has been treated with antibacterial and odor-resistant Ecofresh, to help keep your slippers smelling fresh and clean.
- Robert Fridman, DPM, president of the Northeast Division of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, New York City
- Velimir Petkov, DPM, board-certified podiatrist at Premier Podiatry, Clifton, New Jersey
Originally Published: April 27, 2020
