The best slip-on sneakers for women in 2025, according to podiatrists. (Amazon)
Whether you’re wearing them for running errands or hitting the gym, a comfortable pair of sneakers is a must-have in any closet. Slip-on sneakers, specifically, are a popular go-to, and we can see why podiatrists recommend them. For one, slip-on sneakers are easy to get on and off thanks to their laceless design — plus, they're less bulky. These features make them 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.
Some of their top picks, outlined below, feature padded insoles for extra cushioning, while others offer smart details like shock absorption, ample arch support, and breathable fabrics. From supportive kicks to designer options and backless styles, there's bound to be an option that fits your style and footwear needs on our list.
Ready to go laceless? These are the 14 best slip-on sneakers for women, according to foot experts.
Update, July 1, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. After further testing, we named the Kizik Athens the best overall slip-on sneaker and also added the Vionic Carson sneaker to the list.
Sizes: 5-13 | Materials: Foam, knit fabric, rubber | Colors: 8
After seeing that these Kizik sneakers had so many positive 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, with 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.
Sizes: 5-14 | Materials: Cotton and rubber | Colors: 39
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 podiatrist 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.
Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: 100% vegan | Colors: 2
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.
Sizes: 5-13 | Materials: Leather, rubber | Colors: 2
Vionics are another one of Dr. Brenner's top picks because "they have extra arch support and the company takes biomechanics into consideration when constructing their shoes." This versatile style will look just as good worn with jeans and leggings as it will with skirts and dresses. The leather upper gives them an elevated feel, while the elastic panels make them super easy to slide into.
Sizes: 5-12 | Materials: Synthetic textile, rubber | Colors: 3
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.
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.
Sizes: 5-12 | Materials: Suede, mesh, rubber | Colors: 44
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 44 styles and come in regular, narrow, wide and extra-wide sizes. Reviewers say they last for years.
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.
Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Vegan materials | Colors: 6
Another pair that I've tested and loved are these waterproof kicks from Vessi. The upper is made with the brand's patented Dyma-tex technology that uses thousands of nano-sized pores that are small enough to keep water out but large enough to let sweat and heat escape. I've worn them in downpours and had my feet stay completely dry inside. In addition to their cushioned interior and incredibly lightweight design, these have an elastic ankle collar that helps keep them in place and reflective pull-tabs that make them super easy to get on and off.
Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Woven textile, rubber | Colors: 13
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.
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.
Sizes: 5-11 | Materials: Mesh, phylon | Colors: 21
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.
Sizes: 5-16.5 | Materials: Mesh fabric upper, rubber | Colors: 4
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."
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.
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? After learning their tips and tricks for shopping for a comfortable and supportive pair, we also tested a few pairs ourselves and asked our team of experts which pairs they recommend themselves.
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."
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."
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."
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.
Dr. Hillary Brenner, podiatric surgeon
Dr. Dave Candy, physical therapist and owner of More 4 Life
Dr. Dana Canuso, podatrist and Chemist
Marian Yau, principle podiatrist and nail surgery expert
Dr. Polina Zaydenberg, board-certified podiatrist
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The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
