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We've spent years seeking out the best slippers, testing models from Sorel, Olukai, Birkenstock, UGG, Teva, Chaco, and more to find the right pair to keep your feet comfortable and warm, outside or in.
Slippers come in every shape, size, color, and design purpose you can imagine. Allow us to help you hone in on the perfect pair!
Credit: Justin Simoni
By Amber King ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated May 25, 2025
It's no secret that a cozy, soft pair of slippers can make getting out of bed on a cold day a little bit more bearable, be it a midnight trip to the bathroom or an early morning dog walk. Sometimes, a comfy set will even carry me through a whole day, so I had no problem doing the legwork of testing out this collection of slippers so you can get down to the serious business of relaxing.
In my experience, not all slippers are made the same, but the team agrees that some of the best ones right now are coming from Olukai. The Moloa is the best slipper for most men, and the Ku'i is the best option for women. Both styles have a high-quality leather upper and shearling lining that emphasizes comfort to ensure a cozy, long-lasting slipper. For tighter budgets, the Zigzagger Moccasin for men and HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer for women offer plenty of comfort with more friendly price tags.
Since 2020, the GearLab team has tested dozens of pairs of slippers to compile a list of stand-out options for men and women that we think are worthy of gracing your feet. We judge based on comfort, warmth, and versatility. To complement your new pair of slippers on all cozy indoor adventures, be sure to visit the reviews of our favorite pajamas, yoga pants, and top-rated fleece jackets for men and women.
Editor's Note: We updated our slipper article on May 25, 2025, to update our award recommendations and give more details on who each slipper would be best for.
Insole provides excellent cushion, heel, and arch support
Quality stitch work
Hard-wearing yet supple leather upper
REASONS TO AVOID
Need to follow care instructions carefully
Weighs more than other slippers
Not the best choice for indoor use
Who this is best for: The Olukai Moloa is a Hawaiian-influenced loafer that is ideal for those who want a stylish, well-constructed slipper that can cross over into casual outdoor settings. The sturdy sole makes these feel more like actual shoes than traditional house slippers, making them a good option for those who want a comfy, multipurpose shoe. They're not the slipper I'd want to wear while lounging on the couch, but they shine in transitional moments when I want comfort, support, and enough polish to wear them if I need to pop around town for a bit.
Why we love it: “Stylish” is the perfect way to sum up the Olukai Moloa. Each step exudes coolness, making it a tester favorite. I was impressed by the hard-wearing yet supple leather upper and the genuine shearling liner inside. The insole delivers excellent cushioning, heel, and arch support, while the quality stitchwork underscores the thoughtful craftsmanship. One tester reports, “I found these awesome on casual days out, whether I was wandering a new-to-us seaside town, heading to a backyard barbecue, or dropping into an evening concert in the park.” They keep you warm on brisk evenings but don't overheat, and they're built to last — provided you follow Olukai's care instructions.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a dedicated indoor slipper, the Olukai Moloa might not be your best bet. Their structured upper, rigid outsole, and substantial weight make them less suitable for lounging, and the solid outsole makes too much noise for stealthy midnight kitchen runs. As tester Justin Simoni notes, “I love them best overall, but they're not the slipper I choose if I'm settling into the couch for a night by the fire.” In such cases, the Amazon Essentials Moccasin or Teva ReEmber Slip-Ons may be better options. But if you're willing to care for them properly and want a stylish, durable slipper-shoe hybrid that excels in outdoor or transitional use, the Olukai Moloa is worth the investment — even if it costs more than most slippers we've tested.
Walk with confidence and style in the exceptionally comfortable Olukai Moloa.
Who this is best for: The OluKai Ku'i is the ideal pair of slippers for anyone looking for exceptional comfort and support. They make a great house shoe, but I especially love them for their ability to crossover into casual outdoor wear, and anyone looking for this kind of versatility will be satisfied with the Ku'i. On chilly days, the silky-soft shearling fur and down-to-earth design make them an easy choice for lunch outings, errands, or even as post-hike recovery footwear (sweet relief). Tester Kate Pitts shares, “I can wear these slippers almost anywhere: from cuddling with my kitty at the ohana to pairing them with a cute romper to see live music.” Thanks to their premium leather upper, plush fleecy wool, and wet-grip traction, they function as both cozy house slippers and understatedly stylish shoes.
Why we love it: No other slipper rivals the premium comfort, style, and support offered by the OluKai Ku'i. They feature a springy and supportive midsole, and chic yet casual styling that's easy to wear with just about anything. Their shearling liner and breathable footbed create an excellent balance of insulation and airflow, making them suitable for most climates. These slippers scored especially high in our heat retention tests and will definitely keep your toes toasty through the winter. I feel like my feet are wrapped in a cocoon of warmth as soon as I put them on. However, I have yet to overheat while wearing them thanks to one key design detail. The upper is fully lined with shearling, but the footbed uses a short, felted wool that allows for greater breathability. You don't get to squish your toes into the plush, squishy warmth of a full shearling liner, but this makes them suitable for all but the warmest environments.
Should you buy it? Although I love the OluKai Ku'i overall, they do come with a few trade-offs that you should consider if you're thinking about buying them. The sturdy, grippy sole, while perfect for stepping outside, makes them less suitable for cuddling up on the couch, and they can be noisy on hardwood floors. As Kate notes, “It's hard to walk around unnoticed in these, so if you have a partner, roommate, or baby that may be sleeping and easily woken, I would pick up something softer for indoors.” If quiet, soft-bottom slippers are more your style, and you don't plan to wear your house shoes outside, there are other options that might work better for you. Lastly, for those who like to travel with their slippers, the Ku'i feel a bit too bulky to toss in your bag. But hey, who said they couldn't be your go-to airport shoe?
Each step feels plush and springy in the stylish, silky-soft OluKai Ku'i.
Faux materials aren't as durable as the real thing
Who this is best for: The Zigzagger Moccasin is a classic house shoe that fits the bill for anyone seeking a cozy and budget-friendly slipper. I found these slippers ideal for lazy Sunday relaxation sessions, the kind where you don't want to leave the house. The faux fur lining provides exceptional warmth, and the soft microsuede upper is comfortable and flexible, letting toes move freely. While breathability isn't a strong point, these slippers shine in their ability to provide cozy warmth when temps drop, so if you run cold, these are a good option. A fellow tester also called the Zigzaggers out for their style, saying, “I think they may be one of the best-looking men's slippers I've found, if the moccasin style is your jam, and they come at an incredibly reasonable price.” The one caveat is that I'd recommend these primarily for indoor use, as the upper seems less durable than some options. But if you're after warmth, comfort, and value, and like the moccasin look, these belong on your shortlist.
Why we love it: The Zigzagger Moccasins certainly surprised me with their comfort and warmth, especially considering their low price tag. The synthetic fur lining keeps my feet warmer than most other slippers in the lineup, and I reach for these specifically when the weather turns to its worst outside. The creamy soft microsuede upper feels luxuriously supple, but it feels a bit delicate at times. That said, I appreciate the wraparound outsole, which protects more exposed base or toe areas and prevents scuffing. I don't recommend doing yard work in these, but this feature at least allows for occasional outdoor use.
Should you buy it? If you tend to run warm or worry about sweaty feet, the Zigzagger Moccasin may not be the best match. They don't ventilate as well as options made from natural materials or synthetics with less fluffy linings. Durability could also be a concern — the faux materials aren't as long-lasting as the real thing, especially if you like to wear your slippers outside for errands or chores. However, for indoor use during cold months, they hold up well and should carry you through countless game nights and long winter weekends. If you know you're not too hard on your shoes, and warmth and comfort outweigh ventilation for you, the Zigzaggers are a strong contender.
The rugged good looks of the Zigzagger Moccasin are an excellent budget buy.
Fleece can act as a magnet to hair and other debris
Sloppier fit
Who this is best for: The HomeTop Curly Fur Loafers provide all-day indoor comfort and are an excellent choice for anyone seeking warm, lightweight, and affordable slippers that they don't plan to wear outdoors. The fury brushed fleece upper cradles your feet like a favorite sweater, offering cozy insulation without sacrificing breathability. I like to slip them on straight out of bed and then wear them throughout the day. They lack the support of some of the other indoor/outdoor crossover models we tested, but for an indoor option, we were surprised by the relatively sturdy outsole. That and the thoughtful construction make this slipper stand out as one of the best indoor options we've tested, especially for the price.
Why we love it: Putting on the HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer almost feels like stepping into a cloud. A fellow tester notes, “The memory foam insole is a godsend after a long day working on my feet.” The upper effectively traps heat to keep your feet toasty throughout the day, and though it is quite cushy, it remains durable enough for regular indoor use. I also love how lightweight and un-shoe-like they are. It doesn't make for great dog walking footwear, but it sure is nice to wear them while cuddling on the couch. For a budget-friendly model, this one delivers exceptional performance and comfort that we don't usually see in this price range.
Should you buy it? While the HomeTop Curly Loafers offer impressive comfort and warmth, there are a few things to note if you're considering these slippers. The brushed-fleece upper tends to attract hair, crumbs, and debris. They are machine washable, but you might end up having to wash them more often than you'd like to. As we mentioned above, the fit is a bit sloppier due to the lack of rigidity in the upper fleece material, making it less ideal for outdoor use. If you like to walk the dog, take out the trash, or run the occasional errand in your house shoes, a firmer option with outdoor-ready soles might be more appropriate. However, slippers like this usually come at a significantly higher price. If affordability and cozy indoor wear are your priorities, the HomeTop Curly Loafer is hard to beat.
These lightweight loafers are perfect for indoor duties.
Who this is best for: The UGG Ascot is ideal for anyone looking for a structured, stylish slipper that transitions easily between lounging on our favorite recliner and running errands downtown. With supportive suede panels and a narrow form that enhances walkability, this loafer-style design works particularly well for those who value a more tailored, masculine aesthetic. We must admit that we felt a certain panache when wearing the Ascot, as if we should also be sporting a dinner coat and smoking a pipe. Something tells us this is intentional by the designers.
Why we love it: These finely made slippers feature a gorgeous, durable suede upper and a warm blended lining that pampers the feet. The design holds its shape well, offering a bit of structure that feels supportive without being stiff. Whether out and about or relaxing at home, the UGG Ascot delivers a versatile look that's equally refined and functional. The overall build quality and walkability make it stand out in our lineup.
Should you buy it? The Ascot will appeal to a certain wearer, but may not be right for everyone. If you need a roomy, breathable slipper or prefer all-natural materials, it may fall short. The narrow fit limits indoor comfort for some, especially for those with wider feet, and while it is definitely warm, the liner is not 100% wool. This surprised me; given the price, I would have assumed UGG would use premium materials, including a fully wool lining. If you're seeking a more relaxed fit and premium shearling, there are alternatives to check out that tick these boxes. However, if you're partial to the structured and polished style of the UGG Ascot, these slippers will keep you comfy no matter where you end up wearing them.
We can't deny we feel a little fancy in the UGG Ascot, even if we're just starting the second season of our favorite show while eating takeout past our bedtime.
Supportive cork platform custom molds to foot shape
Liner and footbed covered in soft, felted wool
Natural wool odor management
Grippy traction
High-quality construction
Breathable upper
REASONS TO AVOID
Limited warmth
Not great for travel
Who this is best for: Happy feet do not all come from the same mold, and the Haflinger GZ is perfect for wearers who need serious support and a custom feel from their house slippers. Whether you deal with plantar fasciitis, high arches, or simply need a high amount of structure for all-day comfort on your feet, this clog-style design molds over time to offer a highly personalized fit. Reviewer Kate Pitts shares, “I have high arches, and out of all the slippers we tested, my feet felt the best after walking distances in the GZ.” The clogs are light on insulation, so they may be a good choice for those who run warm. Overall, if you are seeking reliable structure and breathable construction, the GZ is a standout.
Why we love it: This slipper's cork platform and sculpted footbed are designed to cup the heel and support the arch, making it the most customizable fit in our women's lineup. The upper and liner are made of soft, felted wool that feels gentle on bare skin and offers natural odor resistance and sweat-wicking comfort that makes them uniquely suited to summer weather, but is still warm enough to make a smooth transition between seasons. The high-quality construction, stylish stitching, and grippy traction add to its appeal. Its breathable design makes the GZ a great option for year-round wear, offering just enough warmth in cooler months without overheating when it's mild. And if you're worried about cold feet, you can size up and add thick socks.
Should you buy it? If your idea of a perfect slipper includes plush fleece and maximum insulation, the Haflinger GZ might not be your match. Its open-back clog design offers easy slip-on and off and greater breathability, but it doesn't retain warmth as well as slippers with full heel coverage. The substantial outsole and heavier weight also don't make it my first choice to pack in a suitcase. While there are cozier alternatives that are built for warmth and softness, as well as lighter, more packable options, I still like the GZ for its true versatility. It is super comfy, very supportive, and feels more shoe-like than a lot of other slippers I've worn. So if this sounds like you're jam, you'll likely be very happy with the GZ.
The Classic Grizzly slippers adapt to your foot shape over time, while the midsole provides excellent arch support, reducing aches and fatigue if you are on your feet.
Strong stitch work and excellent high-quality construction
Insole has good arch and heel support
Comfortable wool-polyester inner liner is very warm
REASONS TO AVOID
Concerns about outsole durability
Not appropriate for outdoor activities
Lacks weather resistance
Who this is best for: The men's Sorel Falcon Ridge II is an ideal pick for anyone who wants an indoor-specific slipper that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing elegant design. With all-over suede construction, decorative stitchwork, and a cozy wool/polyester liner that spills out from the collar, this slipper is pretty eye-catching from the start. But after wearing them for a few weeks, I found that they also stood up to the various comfort and warmth tests I put them through. As one of my fellow testers shares, “These wear as beautifully as they look, surprising me with their all-over coziness.” If you're after a slipper that feels just as good as it looks and supports your feet through long days indoors, this model is worth considering.
Why we love it: The Falcon Ridge II stands out for its high-quality construction and comfort-oriented slip-on design. While it doesn't have a heel collar to truly lock in your foot, the insole offers impressive heel and arch support, and the slight rise at the back of the slipper holds your heel in place enough to feel secure. The outsole is made of a pliable gum rubber that offers the kind of soft flexibility ideal for cozy evenings, but because it is softer than most synthetic rubbers, it is best for indoor-only use. In this case, the slip-on design is especially convenient for swapping between indoor and outdoor shoes throughout the day. The rubber is quiet and grippy on hardwood floors, while the memory foam cushions each step even more, so I never worry about clack-clacking around the house late at night and waking up family members who are light sleepers.
Should you buy it? If you plan to venture outdoors, this slipper may fall short. The outsole is relatively thin, and natural gum rubber is prone to wear faster than synthetic alternatives. Additionally, the suede upper lacks protection against the elements and is harder to clean if you do end up wearing them outside. These slippers require proper care to last, and because of this, I generally prefer not to wear them out and about like I would some other options I tested. However, for an indoor slipper, I still found these incredibly supportive, and they are quite a bit less expensive than some of the crossover options included in this review. So if you're not the type to wear your lounge clothes out of the house (not for everyone, I know), then the Falcon Ridge III is one of my favorite slippers.
We enjoy lounging around the house in the pliable upper and extremely warm liner of the Sorel Falcon Ridge II.
Who this is best for: The Glerups Slip-On with Leather Sole has a nimble design that is a great choice for anyone who wants indoor footwear that is more than a sock, but much less than a shoe. The design is great for minimalists and frequent travelers. The feather-light slippers are so easy to pack that I found myself tossing them into my bag for everything from hotel stays to weekend visits. They offer a comfortable in-room option for those who just want a little something between their feet and the floor. The low heel collar makes them easy to slip on and off and increases breathability. If you desire a slipper that is hardly there, this is the one.
Why we love it: These slippers excel in ventilation and comfort, with a thin wool upper that naturally resists odors and keeps feet from overheating. They don't offer much by way of structure, but sometimes that's exactly what we want. Our reviewer notes, “If you fall asleep in bed while watching a movie with these on, I think you probably won't even notice they're still there.” The thin leather sole mimics the feel of a ballet slipper, offering subtle structure without weight. For indoor-only use, the design is both functional and elegantly simple, making it a standout for those who value portability and breathability above all.
Should you buy it? The Glerups are a great choice for indoor use, but they should pretty much never be used for outdoor activities, even if it is just a quick mail run. The leather outsole lacks protection and starts to show signs of wear relatively quickly if you wear them often; I tracked 5 miles of walking in my pair, and already noticed small debris embedded in the soft sole. If used on abrasive surfaces like concrete or gravel, you would likely see holes develop. These are also hand-wash only, which is even more reason to keep them inside. So, while it may not be for everyone, the minimalist design is very appealing for certain users. If you value natural materials, a breathable, non-bulky design, and a barely there feel, the Glerups are a wonderful option.
The natural wood upper and thin leather outsole of the Glerups Slip-On is perfect for those that a looking for a super-flexible slipper that breathes better than most.
Who this is best for: The Teva ReEmber Slip-Ons fit right in during casual outdoor hangs and social gatherings where style and light function meet. With a distinctive retro-modern look that echoes vintage trail sneaker vibes, these slippers will suit anyone who wants a laid-back yet eye-catching shoe to wear in or out of the house. Tester Justin Simoni raves, “Retro-hip is back, and I'm here for it!” The design includes thoughtful touches that make the slippers more outdoor-friendly than other models, like toebox reinforcements and a treaded sole for basic terrain. They are perfect for car camping or lounging around a fire pit.
Why we love it: The ReEmber features a quilted upper in several great colors, paired with a shoe-like outsole that enhances its durability. I particularly like its collapsible heel design, which you can choose to wear folded down as a true slip-on shoe or flip it up to lock in your heel for a bit more stability. Overall, this combination of features blurs the line between slipper and sneaker, offering a stylish, outdoorsy look while still feeling relaxed.
Should you buy it? The ReEmber Slip-Ons teeter on the edge of functioning as real shoes, albeit super comfy ones, but they may not be ideal for indoor-only use. The sole doesn't have a lot of flexibility, and the textured tread picks up more dirt than your standard slipper. The quilted upper, while stylish, looks warmer than it is. If you run warm, you might like this; if not, these slippers are best paired with a thick pair of socks. If you're focused on indoor coziness, you'll probably want something with more warmth and softness for lounging at home. But if you kick off your slippers to curl up on the couch anyway, these Teva slip-ons could be a great way to combine lounge-worthy comfort with style and function.
The Teva ReEmber Slip-Ons feature a collapsible heal, allowing them to be worn either as slip-ons or conventionally, as well as tread on the gum rubber outsole for walking around the neighborhood.
Who this is best for: The Chaco Ramble Puff is ideal for those who want a slipper that's as functional outdoors as it is indoors, and adds a kick of quirky style to your look. If you've spent time in a chic mountain town, you know puffy jackets are ubiquitous, and Chaco channels the style and warmth of this outerwear into a slipper form. The quilted nylon upper looks like a puffy jacket for your feet and fits right in whether enjoying après-ski vibes or lounging fireside at a lodge. The rugged sole and cinch strap around the ankle provide excellent stability for more vigorous walks, making this slipper especially great for active wearers.
Why we love it: Although we wouldn't necessarily tag it as a true walking shoe, these Chacos have a surprising level of walkability for a slipper. Beyond that, the insulation is warm enough to keep feet comfortable in chilly temps, and the puffy, stylish look turns heads in casual winter settings. One tester even said, “I found them so comfortable they became my go-to winter shoe when running around town,” highlighting their versatility beyond the campsite or couch.
Should you buy it? If your primary need is indoor lounging, the Chaco Ramble Puff may fall short. The sole is burly enough that I wouldn't want to get too cozy in them, and they're generally less plush than many home-centric options. The more textured tread is great for providing outdoor traction, but it tends to track in dirt. I think of them more like my “easy” shoes for when I'm feeling too lazy to put on real shoes, but I know I need enough support to spend the whole day out and about. So if you're looking for something that excels outside and only occasionally steps indoors, it's a solid choice.
The Chaco Ramble Puff booties are perfect for keeping your feet toasty while outside -- so much so, you may displace you wanting to wear most anything else, outside or in!
Credit: Amber King
A selection of slippers is put in the freezer to test how warm they all stay after being exposed to controlled cold conditions.
Credit: Amber King
How We Tested
Gearlab teams have been testing slippers since 2020, the year when slippers became truly important. We've worn over 60 pairs in search of the best ones, and took notes to share so you can find the right ones for your feet. Our current selection includes two dozen slippers across the men's and women's categories and represents some of the top products we've found. Together, my fellow testers and I have worn these slippers inside and outside, on our downtime, after an adventure, or after particularly difficult work weeks standing on our feet.
I've put them on after waking up, worn them while making breakfast, and running outside to catch the bus to deliver a forgotten lunch. Dogs were walked, and neighbors were visited to deliver mail received in the wrong mailbox. I walked miles in each pair, and some lucky pairs even came along as camp shoes on backpacking trips. I analysed fabrics and outsole materials to note limitations and ongoing care requirements. As always, we perform lab testing in addition to using the products in real life. To measure the warmth offered by the insulation in each pair, I implemented an objective Freezer Test. Utilizing a controlled environment (the freezer) and an infrared thermometer, I measured the starting air temperature in each pair and then sealed the foot opening to mimic the presence of a foot. After chilling the slippers for 5 minutes, I removed them from the freezer and re-measured the interior air temperature again. From there, I slipped them back on while still frigid to observe how fast they warmed up. Daily wear gave me an idea of how breathable they are when used on the move. By combining objective and subjective data, I was able to gauge each slipper's insulating qualities and present my findings in a more applicable way.
Showing off our dance moves while putting on and taking off the slippers while testing is all part of the job.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Slippers were tested across 6 performance metrics:
Comfort
Insulation
Breathability
Construction Quality
Walking Performance
Packability
By using a infrared thermometer, we're able to take warmth retention measurements.
These slippers retained less heat than many other slippers we tested.
These slippers retained a fair bit of heat and landed somewhere in the middle of our pack.
We employed an infrared thermometer to measure heat retained after leaving the slippers inside the freezer for a set amount of time.
Why You Should Trust Us
GearLab testers go hard on their adventures and return home ready to jump into solid recovery time. A great pair of slippers is one of our secret weapons for exceptional R&R. Justin Simoni leads up our men's slipper review. He is an avid trail runner, backpacker, and climber who dependably abuses his poor feet in many rugged outdoor environments. Once back home, he spoils them with a good pair of slippers in preparation for the next adventure. Over the last few years, he's been leading gear-testing duties for many of our outdoor and ultralight categories. He also brings a keen eye for the subtle design features that can differentiate a great product from one you'll forget at the back of your closet.
The lead tester for our women's slipper review, Kate Pitts, is an expert at managing long days on her feet. After a decade as a National Park Interpreter and Backcountry Ranger, she is now a wilderness hiking and backpacking guide in the Rocky Mountains and desert southwest. She is also a yoga teacher and fully understands the importance of balancing active pursuits with time to rejuvenate. She now channels her layered knowledge and physically demanding workload into gear-testing slippers to uncover the best options to help you relax at the end of each day. Tester Amber King collaborates on our women's slipper review, bringing over a decade of experience as a gear tester across numerous outdoor gear categories, including specialization in several footwear-related categories. Amber examines each new pair of slippers with a critical eye, only accepting the best for her own feet while working at home or co-working spaces.
How to Choose Slippers
Slippers come in a surprisingly wonderful variety of styles and materials, from heavyweight super warm shearling loafers to sock-like, pocket-packable memory foam slides and even glitzy, bedazzled accessories to match your most extravagant loungewear. All these colorful styles are accompanied by an equally broad range of sales prices to match. When choosing a pair of slippers, consider what you'll be doing in them, how warm you would like them to be, if you want to wear them indoors or outdoors — or even both — and how much support you'd like them to have. You will also want to consider materials: what would you like them made of, and how much energy would you invest in their care? Finally, you will need to assess the budget you are working with. Each point will help direct your search.
These synthetic slippers won't be damaged when getting a little snow on them.
Slippers that easily can be taken on and off are one of the features we loved to see.
These inexpensive slippers have a comfortable collar and are all around adorable.
Our tireless testers wore each pair of slippers morning, noon, and night — sometimes going the extra mile wearing them to bed!
Slippers come in men's and women's styles, with women's styles sometimes being more fashionably bold while men's styles stick to more traditional aesthetics. Some slippers are also sold as unisex, the fluid chameleons of the footwear world. There are no limits to the whimsy, utility, or extravagance used when designers introduce new styles. Feel free to have fun when you shop! But be sure whatever you select fits well. And be prepared for others to covet your choices. Our testers found the slippers that proved most welcoming and cozy overall were quickly snatched up by their partners (or if not, a second look-alike pair had to be ordered).
Men's Slippers
The GearLab experts on the men's side weren't just lounging around on the job. They threw a barrage of tests at our quiver of options, deep-diving into data, performance assessments, and scoring to determine the best slippers for men from among the bunch. The chart below summarizes their overall findings. Hover over each bar for more details on each slipper, including pricing.
Women's Slippers
Not to be outdone, our women's GearLab experts took the job of wearing their collection of comfy slippers very seriously, running the full lineup of top-selling women's models through the same rigorous testing and thorough review process as the men's. The following chart captured the comparative performances among them, producing our final recommendations for the top women's slippers.
Style
Savvy shoppers will find themselves sifting through a plethora of slipper models representing every possible style, from traditional, modern, cozy, and trendy designs to downright unexpected, creative, and silly ones. Why such a spectrum? While form and function can vary extensively, we may not all target the same balance. The common goal is to provide relative comfort and convenience, particularly if you are just shuffling about the house. However, with such a tremendous variety on the market, shoppers can select an option that meets their needs, goals, and sense of fashion.
Our sundry collection shows off just some of the different styles of slippers you'll find.
Credit: Justin SImoni
Let's talk about a few of the most common styles. Moccasins are heel-less, soft all-around, and are made of — or made to look like — leather, with a sole that's brought up the sides to meet the upper. They can work well indoors and outdoors. In contrast, clogs are slip-ons that usually feature a thick, firm sole made of rubber or cork that works well on hardwood floors, for short trips outside on sidewalks to the mailbox, or for pulling in the trash. Booties wrap your feet in warm insulation and can come up quite high around your feet. They're great as camp shoes on backpacking trips, post-ski foot relief, or between burns on the bouldering wall. Loafers have a traditional lounge-around-the-house style that works well propped up on an ottoman or while playing chess at a coffee shop. Slides are open-backed and open-toed, making them probably the easiest slippers to get in and out of for most. They work great on warmer days when making breakfast or walking the dog. Slip-ons can be considered closed-toe slides and may have a minimal heel to keep the slipper a bit more securely fastened to your foot. They're perfect all-rounders.
Clog-style slippers can be found made of wool, leather, suede and in this case: rubber!
Credit: Justin Simoni
Materials
Generally, you'll find slippers that come in either natural materials like leather, suede, and wool, or they're built of synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and faux fur. By and large, slippers made of natural materials can last long, are extremely comfortable once broken in, and have amazing breathability. Some natural material slippers utilize shearling liners. Shearling is a dense, trimmed wool still attached to the suede. It's extremely soft and makes for an opulent liner. To ensure natural material slippers have a long life, you must follow the manufacturer's guidelines to care for them correctly. Many slippers made of natural materials won't do well in a sudden downpour and probably can't be thrown in a washing machine if you get them dirty. They're also usually more expensive.
Tightly shorn sheerling makes an incredibly soft, dense liner material found in more luxury-minded slippers.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Slippers made of synthetic materials often look just as good as their non-synthetic counterparts when new and can feel just as warm and cozy. Vegans can rejoice, as even the glue of slippers is usually synthetic. Oftentimes, a synthetic slipper can feel very similar to its natural material counterpart, even if it may fall short sometimes when it comes to absolute softness and breathability (although it can be very close!). Synthetic slippers also tend not to break the bank so much, as the raw materials are cheaper to source. Moreover, many of them can be machine-washed, which is perfect if you plan to get dirty in them.
Slippers made of synthetic materials can be vegan friendly, washable, and competitively just as warm and cozy as their natural-fiber cousins, while usually costing a lot less. Quality and durability sometimes suffer.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Some synthetics may not last as long as others, although you benefit from a lower price tag with each purchase. By and large, I found that cheaper slippers are just not as durable as their naturally constructed counterparts. So, I recommend most of those designs for in-house duties only.
The memory foam in the sole of these slippers can help them mold to your feet, but the foam may in time crush out.
Credit: Amber King
Some slippers have more cushion underfoot than others. For example, memory foam is often used in soles to add more comfort with every step, reforming itself easily to match the shape of your foot. But, while this feels soft and cozy straight out of the box, such inexpensive slippers may also be prone to losing such responsive cushioning with regular use, packing down, and reducing overall support fairly quickly. Soft outsoles are often paired with memory foam core, a combination we've seen perform poorly over time. So, although they often come in fun shapes with inexpensive price tags, memory foam-exclusive designs are not likely to prove long-term success stories.
Some slippers are so spartan that they come with no insole at all, while others have a high-quality padded insole with arch support and a heel cup that helps to make them more comfortable to walk around in for long periods of time.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Similarly, a more expensive slipper may be structured more like a shoe than a cozy foot wrap, with a sturdy, treaded sole made of a hard EVA foam material. This design can, in turn, make the slipper less packable, yet it may also ensure a long and healthy lifespan and potentially more versatility in use.
Highly packable and breathable, the Glerups Slip-on with Leather Sole are some of the lightest slippers in our entire collection.
Credit: Amber King
Some slippers are soft, flexible, and constructed in a way that makes them easy to pack down. These can make good choices for travel and/or camping. Usually, the sole, upper, or both are made of a lighter, thinner, and/or more compressible material that is often synthetic so that they can take a little more abuse when crammed in a suitcase or shoved in the bowels of a backpack.
These sliders feature a wool/synthetic liner, and a soft and supple suede upper.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Sizing
Generally, size your slippers the same as your shoes. A too-small slipper isn't very comfortable, so if you're between sizes available, size up. Most slippers don't have laces to secure them to your feet but may have a stretchy opening to keep the slipper from flying off. Most slippers we've tested are easy to get on and off. This is one of the hallmarks of what makes a slipper a slipper!
Slippers -- especially for indoor use -- can be sized a little looser than dress or active shoes. Too-tight of a slipper won't be as comfy, and may be harder to slip on and off.
Credit: Amber King
Slippers made of natural materials with unlined uppers may stretch slightly, so don't worry if they come out of the box feeling a little tight: they'll soon conform to your feet. Some slippers are narrower than others, which I talked about in more detail in individual reviews. Narrower styles usually include moccasins and loafers, while wider styles usually include clogs and slides.
Some slippers have a looser fit which may be attractive for purely indoor use to allow your toes to spread out.
Credit: Nolan Anderson
Warmth
Some slippers are warmer than others. Slippers that cover more of the foot will be warmer, while slippers with open toes will allow more air to make contact with the front of your feet. Slippers with low or no heel coverage also allow the back of your feet to breathe. Some slippers, especially booties, have a generous amount of insulation that can cover all but the bottom of your foot. Liners in the upper and footbeds made of wool, shearling, or fleece can also add a good amount of insulation to help keep you warm on cold winter nights.
Liners make all the difference when it comes to how warm a slipper can feel against your feet. Some come with an overwhelming amount of lining material that literally overflows from the collar of the slipper!
Credit: Amber King
Indoor or Outdoor?
Some slippers are best worn indoors, while others are almost shoe-like, with burlier rubber soles that hold up to the outdoors. Indoor slippers are usually much softer, with less form and support in the insole. They're perfect to curl up on your couch or even your bed, as there aren't too many acute angles to get in the way of your comfort.
Slippers made to wear indoors may feature an open toe, and some more fun, playful stylings.
Credit: Amber King
Slippers made to be worn outside may have a rubber outsole to help with durability and grip so that simply walking around the neighborhood doesn't put a hole in them. Slippers geared for outdoor-first use will have a stiffer upper and may look and feel almost shoe-like; many feature arch support and a heel cup, with an outsole that may even have a slight tread on them. They'll work great for patio hangs, but you probably don't want to wear them on your freshly washed duvet.
Rubber outsoles with substantial tread are a good indication that a slipper makes a good outdoor slipper.
Credit: Amber King
Cost
You may have a budget in mind when shopping around for the perfect pair of slippers, and you may have noticed that the price can vary wildly. Many of the pricier slippers are more fashionable and use natural materials. They're also often more durable and long-lasting. If you're wearing your slippers out and about, a more expensive, outdoor-oriented pair may be where you should put your hard-earned money.
More expensive and fashionable slippers like these head-turners are a great pair to wear out of the house.
Credit: Amber King
Worthy, budget-minded slippers do exist, and our testing found many pearls. These slippers tend to use more synthetic materials to keep costs low. Most of these slippers still retain a ton of warmth, even if they may not have the extra softness that natural wool will provide. If you only wear slippers in the comfort of your home, you probably aren't too worried about impressing your social circles with the fanciest indoor slips, so I would suggest going with a high-value slipper that doesn't exhaust your paycheck. These are usually ideal for curling up on the couch to binge-watch your favorite series, especially if you have a dog with a penchant for destroying footwear.
Some of our favorite slippers aren't necessarily the most expensive, especially for indoor shoes we may be getting a little dirty and want to be able to throw into the wash without fear they'll fall apart.
Credit: Justin Simoni
Conclusion
Slippers keep your feet feeling comfortable and warm when your shoes come off, and having a pair to wear is one of the easiest ways to help you relax after a hard day's work at the office or out on the slopes. Our survey of the best slippers out there is now complete, and it's time for you to decide on the pair that's right for you. We've walked miles and miles and watched numerous movies to bring this selection to you so you can enjoy similarly pampering footwear.
