These Slip-On Walking Shoes Are Supportive and Comfy

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Walking is an excellent way to make sure you hit your daily step count, but taking the time to lace up your shoes can slow you down. Enter slip-on walking shoes. These sneakers are a breeze to slide into, so you can get out the door fast.

The best slip-on walking shoes balance the comfort and support you need in this style of footwear, with a snug-enough fit so it doesn’t feel like your sneaker will fly off mid-stride. Slip-on shoes are also a good option for people with certain health concerns. “People who have swelling in their feet and ankles often find a slip-on shoe easier to use,” says Melissa Lockwood, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates in Bloomington, Ill. “People who have arthritis or other dexterity issues also benefit from an easy, slip-on shoe.”

Meet the experts: Melissa Lockwood, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates in Bloomington, Ill; Richard H. Graves, D.P.M., a podiatrist and founder of Sol Foot & Ankle Centers in Long Beach, California

Today’s slip-on walking shoes rival their lace-up counterparts in terms of quality and support, says Richard H. Graves, D.P.M., a podiatrist and founder of Sol Foot & Ankle Centers in Long Beach, California. “In the past, ‘slip-on’ shoes was pretty much synonymous with ‘shoes without any support,’” he says. But modern slip-on walking shoes have all the support and structure you’ll get with a lace-up shoe, Graves says.

While you look for slip-on walking shoes, it’s important to consider things like fit, cushioning, and stability, Lockwood says. Elements like a large heel tab can also be helpful for getting into and out of your shoes, she adds. With that in mind, these are the best slip-on walking shoes, based on testing and advice from podiatrists.

Orthopedic Naya Slip-On Sneakers

Lockwood is a big fan of the Orthofeet brand. “Favorite slip-on shoe—hands down,” she says. The Naya uses specialized technology that allows the back to compress slightly as you slip your foot inside and then spring back, eliminating the need for a heel tab. That makes these shoes a great fit for people who have arthritis or trouble bending over. These sneakers are also water repellent, making them a good choice on wet days, and have a stretchy upper for a comfortable fit. While the upper is snug, Orthofeet also has a Z-strap closure over the upper to allow you to adjust the fit as needed. A wide toe box keeps your toes from feeling constricted. Orthofeet allows you to customize your arch support with the help of an arch booster as needed. Choose from three colors.

What the reviews say: Fans swear these sneakers offer plenty of support, as well as provide a great fit. “The shoes fit as snug as if I had tied them with laces,” said one owner. Another happy customer raved about how these shoes save them time. “This shoe is comfy and I don’t even have to give adjusting my shoe a 2nd thought. I just jump in and go,” they said.

Tree Dasher Relay

If you’re looking for a stylish shoe you can wear just about anywhere, consider the Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay. The shoes come in a wide range of colorways to help you be as bold or beige as you want. These slip-ons are packed with options to keep you comfortable, including a seamless knit upper, lightly padded heel collar, and cushiony midsole. The sneakers also have a roomy pull tab on the upper to make it easy to slide your foot inside.

What the reviews say: Fans are all about these sneakers for everyday use. “Pavement, cobble stones, uneven ancient stairs, long walks—these shoes can handle all of these with ease and comfort,” said one. “Love the look, the feel and the comfort of these Allbirds,” another shared.

Lima Slip-On Sneakers

Even slip-0ns can be tricky for people with dexterity issues, making it important to find a shoe you can get on without needing to bend over or grip anything. The Kizik Limas use the brand’s specialized technology to allow you to slip your foot in and out without the use of your hands. The sneakers have a breathable knit upper to keep your feet from turning into pools of sweat, along with rubber traction pods for added grip as you walk around. The Limas come in a huge range of sizes, along with wide options, making it easy to find the right fit. Just be aware that Kizik suggests ordering a 1/2 size up. Choose from six different shades. Deputy Editor Emily Goldman lives in hers for walking shorter distances. “They are so so easy to slip on and go—but they aren’t as supportive as a traditional walking shoe, so they’re perfect for short jaunts!”

What the reviews say: Owners give these shoes props for their ease of use and versatility. “Comfortable to be in all day long, walking the dog, light trails, around town, or the yard,” said one owner. “Suitable for office casual.” A fellow happy customer called them, “so easy to slip on and sooooo comfortable.”

Ultra Flex Statements Sneaker

When you’re walking around, you don’t want a sneaker to weigh you down. The Skechers Ultra Flex Statements Sneaker is just 6 ounces, making it super lightweight. While this looks like a lace-up, it offers a slip-on component thanks to stretchy laces and a flexible upper. The heel tab in the back is roomy enough to fit an adult-sized finger inside for grip. These sneakers come in five neutral shades, making it easy to match your footwear to your favorite workout outfit. The memory foam insole and breathable mesh upper help keep you comfortable on your walk. Even better: These sneakers are machine washable.

“Sketchers Ultra Flex is my Disneyland shoe, and I used to have an annual pass. SO cushiony. Can wear with or without socks, are breathable, and have a memory foam insole,” Charlotte Lewis, senior commerce editor, says.

What reviewers say: “Yes, you can just SLIP into these—they look like a regular sneaker but they are already tied for you—no laces to come undone or to tie! That makes it easy to grab them for a quick walk...The convenience of the tied laces and slip-on ability outweighs anything else, and I just use them to walk around the neighborhood anyway.”

Jumpstart Lace Slip On Sneaker

Walking around all day is a great way to stay active, but it can be mayhem for your feet. The Ryka Jumpstarts are specifically designed for a woman’s foot with a narrower heel and roomier toe to enhance fit, no matter how long you cruise. Stretchy laces that crisscross the upper also work to keep your feet in place. The Jumpstarts have a stretchy, soft upper and padded heel to keep your feet comfortable all day. Tabs at the heel and tongue make it easy to slip these sneakers on and off. The shoes come in a range of neutral shades, so you can wear them to work. Mackenzie Dunn, senior commerce manager, says her mom loves the brand. “My mom is an avid walker and adores her Ryka shoes. They have the ideal level of cushioning and support for any terrain and come in sleek silhouettes,” she says.

What the reviews say: Owners who walk all day say these sneakers are up for the task. “I walk a lot and these shoes are cute and comfy and easy to get on and off,” a fan said. “They go with so many outfits and I absolutely love them,” shared another.

Embark Moc Moccasin

Trail walking requires different footwear elements than trekking down the street. The Merrell Embark Moc Moccasin features a grippy lug to help you cruise over rocks and uneven territory with ease. The outsole is also made with rubber for enhanced stability over wet and dry surfaces. Enjoy a neoprene lining for added stretchiness in the upper. This sneaker has a large heel tab that’s big enough to fit several fingers inside. The Embark even has built-in odor control to avoid eau de sneaker from building up over time. The foam midsole is lightweight to avoid dragging you down as you rack up the miles.

What the reviews say: Owners enjoy the lightweight feel and comfortable grip. “These are lightweight, comfortable for walking, and have enough room for a thin sock or can be worn sock-less,” shared one fan. “I bought these shoes to match my spouse. I didn’t realize they would be like walking on pillows,” another said. “What a great shoe.”

Atom

Looking for a classic walking shoe you can slip on and enjoy across a range of scenarios? Meet the Kuru Atom. This sneaker is technically a lace-up but features specialized technology to allow you to slip your foot in and out without needing to retie your shoes. The shoes are relatively lightweight at 10.6 ounces and have a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet from turning into puddles of sweat. Choose from medium and wide sizes, along with your pick of eight colors.

“Perhaps the most comfortable slip-on sneakers I’ve ever tried, Kuru’s Atom shoes feature laces that you can set and forget, and simply slip on the sneakers,” says Emily Goldman, deputy editor. “I wore these for months while commuting to work, and loved how supported my feet felt. I really loved that I didn’t need to tie and untie them—what convenience!”

What the reviewers say: “I have multiple foot problems from a bunion, arthritis, and much-needed arch support. This is the only shoe that addressed all of the problems. Very light and comfortable and supportive.”

Cloud 5 Waterproof Sneakers

On wet, drizzly days, you want footwear that won’t leave your feet a soggy mess by the end of your walk. The On Cloud 5 Waterproof sneakers repel water to keep your toes nice and dry during your workout. These sneakers feature laces, but they’re stretchy to allow you to slip in and out with ease. Even though they’re waterproof, the Cloud 5s are still breathable with an antimicrobial mesh upper. The Cloud 5s also have a distinctive style that makes these work as both an exercise and everyday shoe. Choose from 13 different shades.

What the reviews say: Shoppers swear these sneakers are truly waterproof. “I’m a hairdresser and I can spill water on my shoes all day long,” said one. “I can also finally walk in the rain without my toes getting wet while wearing my favorite shoes.” A fellow fan shared, “I walk seven-plus miles a day (most days) on concrete five to six days a week and these shoes are amazingly comfortable.”

Are slip-on shoes good for walking?

They can be. Many slip-on shoes designed for walking have good support and cushioning to keep users comfortable as they stride—it all depends on the style you choose.

“These newer slip-on walking shoes have more of a structure like a conventional shoe, as well as the appearance that it’s been laced up,” Graves says. They also feature “the added advantage of being able to put it on without having to bend down and use the hands.”

How to choose the best slip-on walking shoes

Consider these factors when choosing the best slip-on shoes for walking:

Support. “Much like other types of shoes, the ‘twist test’ is critical,” Lockwood says. She recommends holding the shoe end to end and trying to twist it across the middle. “There should not be much give (or twist) in a good, supportive shoe,” Lockwood says.

Ease of use. While slip-on shoes are convenient at baseline, it’s helpful to have features that make it easy to get into and out of them. “One that has the ‘tag’ in the back will allow a patient to hold on to it while slipping their foot in,” Lockwood says.

Size. You’ll want to make sure the shoe has a snug-ish fit. It’s important to strike a balance between a snug feel while still allowing room for a little movement. “People should look for a shoe that fits their foot well without feeling like the foot is moving around inside once it’s on,” Graves says.

Cushioning. You should expect the same level of cushioning in your slip-on walking shoe as you would get with a lace-up pair. Meaning, your feet should feel sore after a walking session. “Look for a shoe that offers support and stability that rivals what a conventional shoe can offer,” Graves says.

How we chose the best slip-on walking shoes

To choose the best slip-on shoes for walking, we consulted Melissa Lockwood, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates in Bloomington, Ill., and Richard H. Graves, D.P.M., a podiatrist and founder of Sol Foot & Ankle Centers in Long Beach, California. We also tested the Kizik pairs ourselves, and looked at the most popular slip-on walking shoes on the market and analyzed each based on elements like supportive features, cushioning, and size options.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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