The 9 Best Comfortable Slides, Tested and Reviewed
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A comfortable pair of shoes is a step in the right direction.
Real Simple / Kristin Kempa
Slides are one of the easiest and trendiest pieces of footwear to carry you from point A to point B. The quest for the perfect slide, on the other hand—one that marries style, support, and cloud-like cushioning—isn’t always all that simple. Some slides are too focused on fashion and style at the expense of comfort, and while this may look great for shorter stints around the pool or city, you’re going to want something truly comfortable for everyday wear.
To help, we tested countless pairs of slides to sift through the many options. We looked for shoes that are high in quality, stylish, and most of all, supremely comfortable, even after logging some serious miles. Each pair underwent rigorous testing across various terrains, from the city's bustling boulevards to tranquil nature retreats. We also spoke with stylist Janelle Tan for insight on how to pick the best pair.
Our testing led us to a selection of slides that embody both comfort and fashion. From timeless classics to innovative newcomers, we handpicked the best in footwear to guide you on your search for the most comfortable slides.
Best Overall Slides: Reef Cushion Vera Cruz Slide
What Stands Out
Exceptional comfort from the first wear, with signature cushioning and anatomical arch support.
What Could Be Improved
Expanding the style range could enhance its appeal for even more varied occasions.
The Reef Cushion Vera Cruz Sandal is a true standout and our all-time favorite for a number of reasons. First: Let's talk about cushioning. This option features the brand’s signature cushion with anatomical arch support, ensuring that feet are cradled while maintaining proper alignment. The strap is made from premium full-grain leather, which adds a touch of elegance and also ensures durability for long-lasting use.
We found the top leather soft and pliable, and the sole contoured and perfectly soft. These slides were incredibly comfortable from the first step. There was no break-in period—it felt like they came molded to our feet. The high-density rubber outsole gave us excellent traction, too, providing stability on various surfaces. They stayed securely in place whether we were traipsing across grass, cement, decking, hardwoods, or carpet. When the testing period was up, there were no signs of wear and tear despite using them for extended periods of time.
This sandal strikes the perfect balance between fashion and function, making it suitable for casual outings and even dressing up a summer outfit. So whether you're strolling along the beach, running errands, or spending the day exploring, the Reef Cushion Vera Cruz Sandal delivers an unmatched level of comfort and style that sets it apart as the Best Overall choice.
Price at time of publish: $70
Type: Two-strap slide | Size Range: 5-11 | Materials: PVC-free vegan leather
Best Budget Slides: Cushionaire Women's Lane Cork Footbed Sandal with +Comfort
What Stands Out
A comfortable cork footbed that conforms to the foot shape and gentle faux-leather straps.
What Could Be Improved
Better weather and stain resistance.
For a budget-friendly option that doesn't sacrifice comfort or style, the Cushionaire Women's Luna Cork Footbed Sandal stands out as the best choice. We found these shoes to be really comfortable: Among the most comfortable shoes we’ve ever owned. The cork footbed and suede insoles conformed to the shape of our feet immediately, with the perfect amount of support and bounce. The faux-leather straps felt gentle on the skin, too. We didn’t experience any blisters, rubbing, or discomfort of any kind.
The bottom of these slides are ridged, which made them great for walking around the city, but we wouldn’t wear them in bad weather because of the suede and open-toe design. The buckles themselves may stain the suede, too: When we adjusted the thickness of the straps, there was a black mark where the buckle had been at its original tightness. They’re great otherwise, and they were even mistaken for Birkenstocks twice. We would easily pay twice the price for a pair of these. So whether you're running errands, going for a casual stroll, or enjoying a day at the beach, these sandals offer impressive comfort without compromising on style.
Price at time of publish: $30
Type: Buckle | Size Range: 6-12 | Materials: 100% Genuine suede insoles
Best Splurge Slides: Beek Pelican Leather Platform Sandal
What Stands Out
Luxurious leather craftsmanship with a comfortable, supportive memory foam footbed.
What Could Be Improved
Reducing the weight of the sandals would make for an even lighter experience.
For those looking to invest in their slides, the Beek Pelican Sandal is the clear choice. These artisanal sandals are crafted with attention to detail and quality materials. We loved the memory foam footbed, which was both supportive and comfortable. The molded arch support ensured our feet were properly aligned and reduced strain and fatigue, even during extended wear. We appreciated that these shoes required zero break-in time and never left us with blisters, even when new.
What truly sets these sandals apart is the premium leather craftsmanship. The upper straps are made from buttery soft leather that only gets more comfortable over time, molding to the unique contours of the feet. The honey color, which is the version we tested, adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, too. We felt like we could take them from the office to a dinner reservation, but we would also choose them for a walk on the beach or to a hotel pool. They're very chic and can be dressed up or down. With 1-inch platforms, we never felt the ground through them, either, though this did make them a bit heavier than thinner slides. If you're willing to splurge on comfort, style, and craftsmanship, the Beek Pelican Sandal is the perfect choice.
Price at time of publish: $280
Type: Slide | Size Range: 5-12 | Materials: Soft leather-wrapped molded memory foam footbed
Most Supportive Slides: Chaco Women’s Lowdown Slide
What Stands Out
Anatomically contoured LUVSEAT footbed for superior arch support and comfort.
What Could Be Improved
Including a back strap for additional security during more vigorous activities like hiking.
When it comes to finding the most supportive slide for your feet, the Chaco Lowdown Slide is our No. 1 pick. These slides are engineered with a focus on providing optimal support and stability, making them a top choice for those who prioritize foot health. Its LUVSEAT footbed is anatomically contoured to provide arch support and align the feet properly, promoting a healthy gait and reducing the risk of discomfort or fatigue. So whether you have high arches or need extra support, these slides have got you covered.
We found these shoes to be so comfortable that we would even recommend them for long walks—we didn’t experience blistering, redness, or foot pain of any kind, and they felt broken in right away. The adjustable polyester jacquard webbing upper ensures a secure and customized fit, so you can say goodbye to sliding or slipping, and the non-marking ChacoGrip rubber outsole offers excellent traction on various surfaces, ensuring stability with every step. While these do look sporty, we wouldn’t recommend them for hikes considering the lack of a back strap, but they would be a fine choice for a day at the lake or boating because they dry really quickly.
Price at time of publish: $65
Type: Lowdown slide | Size Range: 5-12 | Materials: Adjustable polyester jacquard webbing with injection molded ladder lock buckle and synthetic trims
Most Secure Slides: Message Mullen Slide
What Stands Out
Exceptional foot security and comfort, suitable for a variety of activities and settings.
What Could Be Improved
Initial tightness of the compression knit strap could be adjusted for immediate comfort.
For those who prioritize security and stability in their slides, go for the Message Mullen Slide, handmade in Portugal. They are thoughtfully designed to provide a secure fit that ensures your feet stay comfortably in place, even during your most active moments. We found these shoes to be so supportive and secure during all of our daily adventures—we wore them for plane and car travel, sightseeing, beach walks, errands, driving, brunch dates, outdoor walks, and more. They’re functional, and they look cool.
These slides feature a compression knit strap, which felt tight at first before expanding and molding to our foot like a glove, offering a secure and locked-in feel. The dreamy design not only provides security but also adds a trendy and modern element to the slide's aesthetics. The upcycled cork footbed was beyond comfortable and provided optimal arch support and cushioning, which is essential for long-lasting comfort. And if they get dirty, you can throw them in the washer—yes, seriously. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and leave them out to air dry.
Price at time of publish: $150
Type: Slide | Size Range: 36-46 EU | Materials: Upcycled wine barecork footbed
Most Versatile Slides: Quince Nappa Leather Double Buckle Slides
What Stands Out
Luxuriously comfortable footbed with high-quality Nappa leather construction.
What Could Be Improved
The light-colored material could be more durable to maintain its appearance over time.
When it comes to versatility, the Quince Nappa Leather Double Buckle Slides shine. They effortlessly adapt to a wide range of styles and occasions, making them a true wardrobe staple for those who value flexibility. Crafted from high-quality Nappa leather, we found that they were also durable, promising long-lasting use, and the double buckle straps provide adjustability for the perfect fit.
We were particularly taken with the material used on the footbed, which felt plush and velvety, like heaven for your feet. After walking for hours, we felt no pain, cuts, or irritation. With the soft material and light colorway, we expected at least some wear, but there was none. If anything, the straps softened and became even more comfortable. We thought these were very similar to Birkenstocks—and perhaps a little more comfortable—but at half the price. The Quince Nappa Leather Double Buckle Slides are equally at home by the beach, on city streets, or at a casual dinner, making them a versatile companion for any occasion.
Price at time of publish: $70
Type: Double buckle slides | Size Range: 5-10 | Materials: 100% full-grain Nappa leather upper with suede insole
Best Sporty Slides: Adidas Adilette Boost Slides
What Stands Out
The Advanced Boost technology footbed that offers exceptional comfort and support in active scenarios.
What Could Be Improved
The design could be tweaked to offer a broader appeal beyond just sporty contexts.
For those who lead an active lifestyle and want slides that can keep up, the Adidas Adilette Boost Slides take the crown as the best sporty choice. These slides are engineered with performance in mind, making them the ideal companion for post-workout recovery or outdoor adventures. Thanks to the Boost technology footbed, we found that they were shockingly comfortable. We didn’t expect them to not be comfortable, but we were pleasantly surprised by how supported our feet felt. The thick cushioning and inner grip kept our feet secure and in place, and we experienced no rubbing, chafing, or blisters. There was no break-in time, either—they were ready to wear right out of the box.
The single-bandage synthetic upper offers quick and easy adjustability, allowing you to slip them on and off with ease. The iconic Adidas stripes add a sporty and fashionable touch to the design, which would work for a variety of both sporty and non-sporty occasions. So whether you're heading to the gym, going for a run, or embarking on an outdoor excursion, the Adidas Adilette Boost Slides offer the perfect blend of comfort, support, and sporty style—the perfect option for active individuals seeking slides that can keep pace with their adventures.
Price at time of publish: $65
Type: Slide | Size Range: 4-10, 12-13 | Materials: Synthetic upper
Best Clog Slides: Birkenstock Boston Soft Clog
What Stands Out
Exceptional foot-conforming comfort with a stylish suede design.
What Could Be Improved
Pricing may be steep for budget-conscious shoppers.
Birkenstock’s Boston is our pick for Best Clog, thanks in part to its exceptional levels of comfort that mold to the contours of your feet. The clogs’ soft footbed features an additional layer of foam inserted between the cork layer and the suede liner, providing a cushioned yet firm support. We particularly love the extra layer of foam added to the footbed, which leads to a very minimal break-in period, unlike with some other Birkenstocks. The adjustable strap ensures a snug fit, while the durable suede leather upper offers a sophisticated look that's as suitable for office wear as it is for casual outings. We also love how supportive the soles of these clogs are without being heavy or cumbersome.
The Boston is also designed with sustainability in mind, featuring a light sole made from EVA that's flexible, durable, and cushioning. The clogs are also easy to slip on and off, making them an ideal choice for those who are always on the go. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the investment reflects the craftsmanship and the quality materials used - we noticed that even after wearing the clogs looked essentially brand new.
Price at time of publish: $158
Type: Slide | Size Range: 4-12.5 | Materials: Suede
Best Water-Resistant Slides: Crocs Women's Swiftwater Sandal
What Stands Out
Lightweight and quick-drying Croslite foam construction, perfect for water activities.
What Could Be Improved
Lack of arch support for extended wear comfort.
For water-resistant slides, the Crocs Swiftwater Sandal takes the top spot, offering exceptional protection and comfort for those water adventures or rainy days. Constructed with Croslite foam, the material is not only lightweight but also quick-drying, ensuring that feet stay comfortable, even when wet. Since they’re on the thinner side, they’re great for people who don’t like bulky shoes.
In testing, the adjustable straps provided a secure fit—we wore them to the beach, in the water, and while running errands. They felt broken in on day one, and we didn’t get a single blister. We loved how comfortable and lightweight these were, so much so that we barely noticed they were on our feet. There isn’t any arch support, but we were able to walk around all day comfortably regardless. They even held their own on slick pavement: The rugged outsole features flex grooves for improved traction on wet surfaces and peace of mind that you won’t take a spill.
Price at Time of Publish: $35
Type: Sandal | Size Range: 4-10 | Materials: Croslite foam construction with soft, flexible straps
Real Simple / Julia Warren
More to Consider
Chaco Chillos Slide: The Chaco Chillos Slide has a LUVSEAT EVA midsole for optimal comfort and proper foot alignment. These slides feature adjustable straps for a custom fit, an antimicrobial treatment for odor control, and a ChacoGrip rubber outsole for traction in various outdoor settings. We thought they were comfortable and reliable but not that fashionable. The bright colors may be a turn-off for people who prefer neutrals and, in general, a shoe they can wear with more outfits.
Reef Cushion Vista Hi Sandal: Reef’s Cushion Vista Hi Sandal offers a fusion of style and comfort with its EVA cushioned footbed and anatomical arch support, which makes it perfect for various occasions from casual to dressy. Its platform design provides a fashionable lift, catering to those who favor a little extra height in their footwear. That said, these did have a break-in period of about 20 hours, they made us hot, and the straps chafed the tops of our feet.
Final Verdict
The Reef Cushion Vera Cruz Sandal is our Best Overall choice for its blend of comfort, style, and durability, making it ideal for a variety of occasions. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort, the Cushionaire Women's Luna Cork Footbed Sandal is an excellent alternative.
Our Testing Process
In our thorough testing process, we started with a detailed examination of the materials and construction of each slide, focusing on the heels, soles, insoles, and fabrics. This initial assessment helped us gauge their quality. Next, we tested for arch support by bending and twisting the shoes, followed by a break-in period at home, where we assessed the immediate comfort, fit, and sole thickness.
Over an extended period, the slides were worn multiple times for at least two hours in various settings, such as while traveling, shopping, or walking, to evaluate comfort, support, versatility, and durability. We also checked the traction on different surfaces and observed any post-wear effects, like blisters or foot pain. This comprehensive approach enabled us to give accurate, reliable, and real-world insights into the comfort and quality of the slides.
Real Simple / Elena Garcia
How to Shop for Slides Like a Pro
Style
Slides offer a diverse range of styles to suit various tastes and occasions. Classic slides feature a simple and timeless design with a wide single strap across the foot. They are versatile, suitable for casual or even dressier occasions. Sporty slides are designed with durability and traction in mind, making them ideal for post-workout recovery or outdoor adventures. Fashion-forward slides prioritize style, often incorporating trendy designs, materials, or embellishments.
Material
Slide materials impact comfort and style. Leather offers durability and elegance, while synthetic options, like EVA or PVC, are affordable, lightweight, and easy to maintain. Suede adds a luxurious feel but requires care to prevent water damage and scuffing. Textile materials, such as canvas or woven fabrics, provide breathability and versatility for casual or summer wear.
Rubber is durable and water-resistant, making it suitable for beach trips and rainy days. Cork footbeds offer natural cushioning and arch support, molding to your feet over time. And mesh materials offer breathability and lightweight comfort, ideal for active pursuits and warm weather.
Sizing
Finding the right slide size is crucial for comfort. Some slides fit true to your regular shoe size, providing a comfortable fit, while others may require sizing up or down depending on the brand and design. It's essential to consider factors like men's vs. women's sizing, half sizes, and width options to ensure a proper fit. Keep in mind that some brands use European sizing, so it's helpful to consult conversion charts for accuracy. Customer reviews often offer valuable insights into sizing recommendations, so reading feedback can be beneficial. Whenever possible, trying slides in-store can provide the most accurate fit, ensuring that your chosen pair offers the comfort and style you desire.
Questions You Might Ask
What slides have the best support?
When it comes to slides offering exceptional support, the key factors to look for are a well-designed footbed and arch support. These elements are crucial for maintaining proper alignment and cushioning your feet. Slides with contoured footbeds that provide arch support tend to be the best choice for those seeking superior stability.
“Pick something that doesn’t have a flimsy sole, something that’s a little chunkier,” Tan says. Anatomically designed footbeds help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your feet and lower limbs. Look for slides with cushioned insoles that offer comfort without sacrificing stability.
Adjustable straps or bands can also enhance support by allowing you to customize the fit to your liking. A secure fit ensures that your feet are held in place, reducing the risk of discomfort or instability. Keep in mind that individual preferences and foot anatomy can vary, so it's essential to try on different slides to find the ones that offer the best support for your unique needs. Whether you have high arches, flat feet, or specific support requirements, prioritize slides with features that cater to your comfort.
Are slides comfortable for walking?
Slides can be comfortable for walking, but their level of comfort largely depends on the design and features. Slides are inherently easy to slip on and off, making them convenient for casual outings and quick errands. However, not all slides are great for extended walks. To make sure you’re comfortable all day, look for cushioned footbeds that provide support and shock absorption. Arch support and proper alignment are crucial for comfort during prolonged walks, and adjustable straps allow you to customize your fit and make sure you don’t slip out midstep.
It's important to choose slides with features that align with your walking needs. While slides excel in convenience and breathability, they may not offer the same level of support as athletic or walking shoes. Consider the intended use and duration of your walk when selecting slides, and opt for pairs designed with comfort and support in mind if you plan to go for long walks.
How can you make slides more comfortable?
In addition to making sure you have the right size, cushioned footbeds, arch support, contoured footbeds, and adjustable straps, consider your materials carefully. “Pick something that’s made from real leather,” Tan says, “so it’s soft and molds quickly to your feet. This will make a huge difference for walking.” Gradually breaking in new slides can also help them adapt to the shape of your feet. You can even insert orthotic or cushioned insoles for added comfort and support, and moisture-wicking socks can keep your feet dry and reduce friction, especially on hot days.
Take Our Word For It
This article was written by Elizabeth Loomis, a seasoned writer who has spent years covering lifestyle topics that have given her a discerning eye for fashion, trends, and lifestyle. From her time reporting on the latest trends in interior design for The Zoe Report to her work exploring the dynamic world of beauty for InStyle, she's developed an understanding of how aesthetics and functionality can merge to create standout products. Her expansive coverage of lifestyle topics for Well + Good, The Spruce, and other lifestyle publications has further enhanced her sense of the beautiful, the functional, and the unique. To compile this list, she spoke with stylist Janelle Tan and combed through countless products to bring you the best of the best. Taylor Rock, senior commerce editor for Real Simple, also contributed to this roundup.
What Is Real Simple Selects?
Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn't an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.
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