Slip-on shoes are the easiest thing in your wardrobe: step in, walk out the door. But not every slip-on is comfortable. Some pinch across the toes, some slip off at the heel, and some feel like walking on a board. Here's how to find a pair that's genuinely easy on your feet.
1. A soft upper with a little give
Stretch knit uppers gently mould around your foot, so there's less pressure across the widest part. They also breathe, which matters on warm days. Perforated leather-look uppers are a smarter option that still lets air in.
2. A cushioned, flexible sole
Bend the shoe at the ball of the foot. It should flex there, not in the middle. A lightweight cushioned sole softens each step on footpaths and shopping centre floors, and a grippy tread helps on wet tiles.
3. Room for your toes
A rounded or foot-shaped toe box lets your toes spread naturally instead of being squeezed to a point. If your feet are on the wider side, look for styles described as wide fit or roomy toe, or go up half to one size.
4. A heel that stays put
A padded heel collar and a snug, stretchy opening stop the shoe slipping off without rubbing. If you'd like more adjustment, choose a slip-on with a hook-and-loop strap over the top of the foot.
5. Truly hands-free
If bending down to fiddle with shoes is a chore, look for wide openings or a firm heel you can step straight into.
Slip-ons we love
- The Azalea Slip-On Sneaker: cushioned, secure and no laces at all.
- The Ada Knit Slip-On Sneaker: soft stretch knit, machine washable, eleven colours. It runs about half a size large.
- The Bea Wide-Fit Comfort Slip-On: an adjustable strap and extra-roomy toe box, AU 5 to 12.
- The Penny Roomy-Toe Knit Slip-On: a foot-shaped toe box and a light, flexible sole.
- The Gloria Wide-Opening Comfort Shoe: the front opens right out so you can step in without bending.
- The Rosalie Comfort Loafer: a polished slip-on loafer that's light enough for travel.
Browse every style in Comfort Shoes. Everyone's feet are different, so if you have a foot condition, check with your podiatrist about what suits you. Standard shipping is free on Australian orders over $100 and every order has 30-day returns.