The 14 best slip-on sneakers for women in 2024, according to podiatrists (2024)

Is there anything that trips you up more when you're trying to hustle out the door than wrestling on tightly laced sneakers? A comfortable pair of sneakers is a must-have, but how about comfort and convenience? Our list of the best slip-on sneakers for women has you covered. Not only are they typically less bulky than other options, but their laceless designs make them easier to get on and off — ideal for travelers, people with mobility issues and more. Still, with thousands of slip-on sneakers available, finding the right pair can feel overwhelming. We turned to the pros and asked a team of podiatrists and physical therapists which are the best slip-on sneakers for women to shop.

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Ready to go laceless? These are the 14 best slip-on sneakers for women, according to foot experts.

Best overall slip-on sneakers for women

Hoka

Hoka Ora Recovery Shoe 2

Best overall slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: 100% vegan | Colors: 5

Hundreds of shoppers and podiatrists are fans of this ultra-cushioned pair of sneakers. Dr. Hillary Brenner, a podiatric surgeon, said this pair of supportive slip-ons "is hands down my favorite. They meet all the criteria of a supportive shoe and I especially like that they make their shoes with the EVA material for shock absorption." Not only do the sneakers have the signature Hoka cushioning, but they boast a memory-foam heel for added comfort and an elastic band at the ankle that cradles the foot and keeps it from sliding around. Even better? They're made from 100% vegan materials and have a mesh upper, making them super-breathable. Plus, they weigh less than 6 ounces.

Pros

  • Very cushioned
  • Comfortable
  • Supportive
  • Shock absorbing
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Pricey

$90 at Hoka

Other top slip-on sneakers we recommend for 2024

adidas

Adidas Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe

Best sporty slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-14 | Materials: Cotton and rubber | Colors: 37

If you're looking for a great pair of athletic slip-ons, look no further. "These are great all-around slip-on sneakers for walking, light running, and weight day at the gym," said Dr. Dana Canuso, a podatrist and chemist. The Cloudfoam midsole provides ample cushioning and support, while the textured rubber outsole offers good grip. The top of the shoes has crisscrossed elastic straps that help keep them in place and offer a sock-like feel. There are also loops at the top and heel of the shoe that make these even easier to slip on and off. Shoppers rave that they were comfortable straight out of the box and had no break-in period.

Pros

  • Tons of colors
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Might be too sporty-looking for some

$72 at Amazon

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$53 at Eastern Mountain Sports

Kizik

Kizik Athens Sneaker

Editor's choice slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-13 | Materials: Foam, knit fabric, rubber | Colors: 14

After seeing that these Kizik sneakers had nearly 30,000 reviews, I knew I needed to give them a try. They may look like your average lace-up sneaker, but they're actually designed to slip on and off hands-free thanks to a structured heel cup that keeps the sneaker's shape and prevents it from curling in. These are probably the most structured and supportive sneakers I've ever worn, and they were comfortable straight out of the box, no break-in period needed. They also offer great traction, and while they're technically not waterproof, I wore them several times to walk my dog in the rain and my feet stayed pretty dry.

Pros

  • Super-supportive
  • Comfortable
  • Good traction
  • Easy to slip on and off

Cons

  • Expensive

$130 at Kizik

Zappos

Vionic Zinah Slip-on Sneaker

Best casual slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Leather, ethylene vinyl acetate | Colors: 7

Another one of Brenner’s top picks: This pair of Vionic sneakers, because "they have extra arch support and the company takes biomechanics into consideration when constructing their shoes." The versatile style will look just as good when worn with jeans and leggings as it would with skirts and dresses. The leather upper gives them an elevated feel, while the elastic panels make them super easy to slide into. Customers also love how comfortable and well-made these sneakers are.

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Comfortable
  • Designed by podiatrists

Cons

  • Expensive

$120 at Vionic

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$120 at Amazon

Vionic

Vionic Women's Brisk Jada, Charcoal, 6 M US

Best cushioned slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Rubber, mesh and synthetic fabric | Colors: 5

This pair of sneakers was designed by a team of podiatrists, so they're supportive and comfortable enough for a day on your feet. They sport a sleek, stylish, breathable mesh upper and three-zone comfort to provide stability with a deep heel cup, ample forefoot cushioning and tons of arch support. "They also have a no-tie lacing system that allows you to slip the shoes on and off without having to tie and untie the shoes each time. Yet they still provide enough support to help control foot motion while walking," said Dr. Dave Candy, physical therapist and owner of More 4 Life. Even better, they even have an American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance.

Pros

  • Cushioned
  • Provides stability
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

Cons

  • Pricey

$75 at Amazon

Zappos

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit

Best slip-on sneaker with arch support

Sizes: 5-13 | Materials: Synthetic textile, rubber | Colors: 15

If you require shoes with some extra reinforcement in the arch, Canuso loves this pair of Skechers because "they are cute and offer great arch support — perfect for everyday wear!" Made with the brand’s patented comfort pillar technology, they are designed "to react to your every step for ultimate comfort." They feature a dual-density outsole for extra support and stability and a reinforced toe to protect your feet from the elements. They're also machine-washable.

Pros

  • Ample arch support
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Some shoppers say they aren't the most durable

$88 at Zappos

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$45 at Amazon

Easy Spirit

Easy Spirit Traveltime Mule

Best backless slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-12 | Materials: Suede, mesh, rubber | Colors: 27

If you prefer the ease of backless sneakers, check out this pair by Easy Spirit. The sporty kicks feature a flexible outsole and a cushioned insole for added comfort. Brenner is a fan because "the treads on the bottom of the shoe are sturdy, the material on the top of the shoe is soft and they have a wide chunky heel." The lightweight slip-ons come in 31 styles and come in regular, narrow, wide and extra-wide sizes. Reviewers say they last for years.

Pros

  • Supportive
  • Cushioned
  • Great traction

Cons

  • No back

$41 at Amazon

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$41 at Macy's$45 at Kohl's

Zappos

Topo Athletic Rekovr 2

Best wool slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 6-12 | Materials: Wool, rubber | Colors: 2

Super-soft wool will keep your feet cozy at campsites and warm in winter. Not only are these lightweight, breathable and super comfortable, but they boast a high-traction outsole and a cushioned insole. Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, DPM recommends these because they have wide toe boxes and are designed to be worn without socks, unlike most other sneakers. "They have a textured insole designed to stimulate the nerves of the feet which helps improve blood flow and increase muscle strength in the feet," she said.

Pros

  • Warm
  • Comfortable
  • Wide toe boxes

Cons

  • Expensive

$120 at Zappos

Sizes: 7-15 | Materials: Canvas, rubber | Colors: 1

Prefer a shoe with a little added security? Check out this pair with a wide strap that keeps them in place. These cotton canvas sneakers boast extra-grippy vulcanized rubber soles that make them ideal for exploring different terrains. The slip-on silhouette makes them easy to take on and off, and the hook and loop strap allows you to customize them for the perfect fit. They're also less than $50 a pop, which is one reason why they made Kuizinas' list of top picks. "These shoes have all the features of a healthy shoe and are a very good price," she said.

Pros

  • Extra grippy for traction
  • Supportive
  • Strap keeps them in place
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Not the most stylish

$46 at Splay

YHOON

Yhoon Walking Shoes

Best lightweight slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Woven textile, rubber | Colors: 15

More than 11,000 Amazon shoppers have given these sock-like sneakers their seal of approval, including nurses, teachers and essential workers. And doctors love them too. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Polina Zaydenberg said the sole offers excellent shock absorption. "The platform is great for heel pain and metatarsalgia [pain in the ball of the foot]," she said. Zaydenberg also raved about the roomy toe box, a must if you have bunions or hammer toes.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Not super durable

$28 at Amazon

Nordstrom

Balenciaga Speed 2.0 Lurex Sock Sneakers

Best designer slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 6-12 | Materials: Textile upper and lining/synthetic sole | Colors: 1

Upgrade your wardrobe with this stylish designer pair. Spending almost $1,000 on a pair of sneakers may sound absurd, but Marian Yau, a principle podiatrist and nail surgery expert, said these luxe Balenciaga sneakers are well worth the price. "They are great slip-on shoes because they feature a lightweight silhouette, with a responsive foam midsole and a breathable mesh upper. One of my patients swears by them for their painful feet," she said. The Italian-made shoes have an ultra-cushioned platform to add some height and a sock bootie design that goes up to the ankle. They're only sold in full sizes, so the brand recommends going up a size if you're in between.

Pros

  • Comfortable
  • Well made
  • Cushioned

Cons

  • Very expensive

$995 at Nordstrom

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$995 at Neiman Marcus

Slow Man

Slow Man Sock Sneakers

Best breathable slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Mesh, phylon | Colors: 23

If your feet tend to overheat, choose a ventilated option like these. Not only does the mesh upper make them quite breathable, but they also feature a perforated arch for even more ventilation to keep your feet cool and dry. The outsole has an air bubble and a chunky rubber sole, which Zaydenberg said is "a great shock absorber" and provides "plenty of cushioning." She also loved that it has a wide toe box that accommodates those who have bunions and hammer toes. Shoppers say these are easy to slip on and off and comfortable for long days on your feet.

Pros

  • Cushioned
  • Comfortable
  • Breathable
  • Supportive

Cons

  • Shoppers say they're not super-grippy

$29 at Amazon

Nike

Nike Go FlyEase Easy On/Off Shoes

Best slip-on sneaker for people with limited mobility

Sizes: 5-16.5 | Materials: Mesh fabric upper, rubber | Colors: 3

These innovative sneakers are designed to be fully hands-free. Made with a heel that pivots open, you can step in and out of them without the need to grip them at any point. "A great feature is the secure and comfortable fit, while the flexible sole design makes the shoes easy to put on and take off," Yau said. "Featuring a bi-stable hinge, the shoes are also ideal for a variety of activities due to their ability to move between two positions. Keeping your feet cool and comfortable is easy with the adjustable strap and breathable upper. I highly recommend these."

Pros

  • Super-easy to put on and take off
  • Comfortable
  • Supportive
  • Breathable

Cons

  • Expensive

$125 at Nike

Zappos

Xero Shoes Sunrise

Best flexible slip-on sneaker

Sizes: 5-12 | Materials: Microfiber, rubber | Colors: 2

These slip-on Xero sneakers also made Kuizinas' list because they are "soft, comfortable, provide a wide toe box and flexible sole to allow for natural foot movement." You can wear them two ways: Either pull the back of the shoe up over your heel and wear them like a regular shoe, or fold down the back and slide in. The ultra-lightweight sneakers weigh less than 5 ounces and are so flexible they can be folded in half or rolled up, making them a superb option for travel.

Pros

  • Can be worn two ways
  • Comfortable
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Very casual looking

$70 at Zappos

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$70 at Xero

How we chose the best slip-on sneakers for women

We turned to the pros and asked a team of podiatrists and physical therapists about the best slip-on sneakers for women, because who would know better than experts in the field?

Factors to consider when choosing a slip-on sneaker

  • Arch Support: Experts agreed that this is the most important consideration for slip-on shoes. "Arch support is probably the first thing to consider when looking for a comfortable slip-on sneaker. If you're going to be using it for walking or other activities, you want to make sure that the shoe is giving you enough arch support for your foot type," Candy said.

  • Cushioning: The next key to a good slip-on sneaker? One that's properly cushioned. "A soft material and padded insole are key to selecting a shoe that provides cushioning," Yau said. EVA cushioning in particular will give you the comfort you need when spending all day on your feet: Brenner said this material works so well because "it not only adds cushioning in the shoe but it also helps with shock absorption."

  • Design: A wide toe box and a flat, flexible sole are also key, according to Kuizinas. "It is best to avoid slip-on sneakers that have stiff or rigid soles as these will end up feeling uncomfortable when worn for walking, even if they have a lot of cushioning," she said. As for outer soles, look for "natural or synthetic rubber soles that will give the shoe long-lasting wear and anti-slip wearability," said Canuso. "Stay away from single molded plastic soles which are both slippery and tend to lose their shape quicker."

Slip-on sneaker FAQs

How should slip-on sneakers fit?

With normal lace-up styles, you have the ability to make them as tight or loose as you like, but since slip-on sneakers don’t give you that option, it's important to make sure they fit properly from the start. "An ideal slip-on shoe should fit snugly, but not so tightly that it restricts movement. During walks, you shouldn't be able to move your foot because they are too loose," Yau said. Added Kuizinas: "Slip-on sneakers should fit snugly around the heel and mid arch so that the shoe does not slip off, but they should have plenty of room around the toe box area. Ideally, you want about 0.5 to 1 centimeters of additional length from the ends of the toes, and around the sides of the toes, to allow for the necessary motion of lengthening that occurs while walking."

Should you wear socks with slip-ons?

You may think slip-on sneakers function more like a pair of flats and you don’t need to wear socks with them, but most of the experts we talked to recommended wearing socks. "They can help prevent blisters and prevent your shoes from getting too stinky — remember, it's easier to wash your socks than your shoes," Candy said. Yau agreed: "Wearing socks with slip-on shoes helps prevent blisters and unwanted rubbing. In addition, socks absorb sweat and keep feet dry. Wearing socks with slip-on shoes prevents your feet from being stressed by adding another layer of cushioning."

Are slip-on sneakers good for walking and overall foot health?

According to Brenner: "Yes, as long as they meet the criteria of having a wide chunky heel [and] good arch support. You also don’t want them to bend in half like a burrito and most importantly make sure the shoe fits properly." While great for everyday errands and walks, they're also ideal to wear around the house instead of slippers, as they give you more support.

Canuso said slip-ons are also ideal for people with mobility issues or those who have trouble with laces. "They are also a great idea for those with hip or knee problems that cannot bend down and put on their own shoes," she said.

Our panel of experts

The 14 best slip-on sneakers for women in 2024, according to podiatrists (2024)

FAQs

What brand of shoes do podiatrists recommend for walking? ›

Some of my patients are fiercely loyal about their shoes! Among the brands I hear about the most from my patients are Naot and Birkenstock sandals, Hoka One One and the Swiss brand, On Cloud X shoes for running and walking plus the ever popular New Balance shoes for running and walking.

What is the best sneakers to wear when you re on your feet all day? ›

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 (Women's, Men's)

The recently released and extremely popular Fresh Foam X 880v14 features a breathable, recyclable mesh upper that lets your feet stay cool while walking or standing, along with a supportive foam midsole and rubber outsole that prevent slips and trips.

Are slip on shoes good for your feet? ›

A slip-on shoe must provide the correct support underneath the foot too. Many styles are made from thin material and provide no added protection along the sole of the shoe. This can lead to arch and heel soreness as well foot pains from the excessive pressure and reduced shock absorption.

What is considered the best walking shoe? ›

7 Best Walking Shoes in 2024
  • Best overall. Nike Motiva.
  • Best comfort. Allbirds Tree Runners.
  • Best for standing all day. Hoka Transport.
  • Best arch support. Skechers Arch Fit 2.0.
  • Best for travel. On Cloud 5.
  • Best slip-resistant. Hoka Bondi SR.
  • Best rocker. KEEN WK400.
5 days ago

What do podiatrists think of Skechers? ›

Sketchers DO NOT have appropriate stability in the upper fabric and the heel counter to complement an orthotic. As such, you will probably find the orthotic redundant, or in worse case contributing to the cause of injury. Remember, an orthotic does 50% of the work. The shoe does the other 50%.

What brand of sandals do podiatrists recommend? ›

Outsole Material: EVA

Do podiatrists recommend Birkenstocks? Birkenstocks have many characteristics that podiatrists look for in a sandal, including a deep heel cup, adjustable strap, and firm footbed. The cork material used in Birkenstocks is also a plus, as it's both comfortable and supportive.

Are Skechers good or bad for your feet? ›

As a consequence, Skechers can cause ligament and muscle stresses and strains. The memory foam could take on the 'memory' of a poor gait style causing destabilising foot, ankle, knee, hip and lower back pain.

What sneaker has the best arch support? ›

Designed to minimize impact as your feet hit the ground, MBT's Huracan-3000 Running Shoes are our top pick for runners who need great arch support and protection against knee pain. During testing, we were impressed by how well this shoe absorbed shock, taking the load off of our joints.

Are Crocs good for your feet? ›

Lack of Support – While they may be comfortable, Crocs are far from the most supportive type of shoe. They provide very little support to your ankle and your arches, which can lead to soft tissue injuries. If your foot isn't supported in the midfoot area, you'll be at an increased risk for heel pain.

Are you supposed to wear socks with slip-on sneakers? ›

Most people choose to wear some kind of socks with Vans slip-ons, whether they're no-show or statement, mainly to make them as comfortable as possible and to control smells. In addition, it's much easier to wash socks than shoes so it makes sense to wear them.

Are slip on shoes bad for plantar fasciitis? ›

This advice is particularly stressed towards female patients as their footwear choices are usually worse than males. Shoes which often make plantar fasciitis worse are flat slip on shoes or pumps.

Can slip on shoes cause plantar fasciitis? ›

They can easily cause that painful over-stretching of our plantar fascia – especially when walking long distances or standing. Ballet flats aren't the only shoe that can cause plantar fasciitis – flat flip flops, casual sneakers, flat sandals, gladiator sandals, etc. can also be culprits.

What is the No 1 shoe? ›

Nike is the most popular sneaker brand in the United States, followed by Adidas and New Balance.

What shoes can you walk in all day? ›

Compare
Blister Protection
Best Women's Overall: Hoka Bondi 7 Shoes$190 at Amazon4.5
Best Men's Budget: Asics Gel-Venture 8$50 at Amazon4
Best Women's Budget: Sketchers Go Joy Walking Shoe$65 at Amazon4.5
Best for Overpronators: Saucony Omni Walker 3$53 at Amazon4
6 more rows
5 days ago

What brands are good for walking? ›

  • Hoka Transport. Best walking shoe overall. ...
  • Nike Pegasus 40. Best Nike walking shoe. ...
  • Skechers GO WALK Arch Fit Motion Breeze. Best walking shoe for arch support. ...
  • Danner Trail 2650. Best for trail walks. ...
  • Merrell Moab 3. Best walking shoe for comfort. ...
  • Reebok Nano X3 Adventure. ...
  • KEEN WK400. ...
  • Allbirds Tree Runners.
5 days ago

Why do podiatrists like Hoka? ›

Beloved by style-seekers and podiatrists alike, the brand has a wide range of models to choose from, all of which fit expert recommendations for supportive footwear: They won't fold in half if you try to bend them, they have removable insoles, and they have firm heel counters.

Do podiatrists recommend New Balance shoes? ›

One of the primary reasons podiatrists recommend New Balance shoes is their exceptional arch support. Proper arch support is vital for maintaining the natural alignment of the foot and preventing issues like overpronation (inward rolling of the foot) or supination (outward rolling of the foot).

Why do podiatrists recommend Brooks? ›

Why do podiatrists recommend Brooks? Podiatrists recommend Brooks, especially for running, because it is a trusted brand whose high-quality, durable shoes are designed with runners' specific needs in mind. Sutera prefers Brooks shoes because they are well-cushioned and supportive, with a very strong heel counter.

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