In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsWhat Are House Shoes?The Bottom LineChoosing the Right OneOur SearchCommon QuestionsOur Trusted Expertise

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

What Are House Shoes?

The Bottom Line

Choosing the Right One

Our Search

Common Questions

Our Trusted Expertise

Photo:EatingWell / Nick Simpson

Three pairs of slippers with arch support displayed on a blue and white rug

EatingWell / Nick Simpson

You might like walking around the house with bare feet, but your feet won’t if you do it too often. In fact, spending a lot of time barefoot can cause pain for some people. “The foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, 19 muscles, and 109 ligaments, so a lot can go wrong as we overuse and abuse our feet daily,” saysDouglas Tumen, DPM, F.A.C.F.A.S., a podiatrist based in New York and author ofAsk the Foot Doctor. “Common foot pain causes include arthritis, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, neuromas, hammer toes, bunions, painful metatarsals, corns and calluses. Getting rid of foot pain often requires an overview of what could be causing your pain. [And] sometimes changing shoes and wearing arch supports can limit foot pain.”

So what shoes or slippers should you be wearing in your house? We polled podiatrists and tested quite a few pairs ourselves. Here are the top picks for slippers with arch support.

House shoes are any type of shoes that are worn specifically, and exclusively, in the home. “Slippers, slides or even a pair of sneakers,” can all be house shoes, saysAlissa Kuizinas, DPM, and founder of Doctor Ark. All of the experts we interviewed for this article agreed that all house shoes should always provide cushioning and support.

Best Overall:Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers at Amazon$85Jump to Review

Best Overall:Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers at Amazon$85

Best Overall:

Best for Sweaty Feet:Glerups Slip-on with Rubber Sole at Amazon$135Jump to Review

Best for Sweaty Feet:Glerups Slip-on with Rubber Sole at Amazon$135

Best for Sweaty Feet:

Most Luxurious:

SALE

Best Sandals:SALEOofos OOriginal Sandal at Amazon$70$47Jump to Review

Best Sandals:SALEOofos OOriginal Sandal at Amazon$70$47

Best Sandals:

Best for Plantar Fasciitis:Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers at Amazon$90Jump to Review

Best for Plantar Fasciitis:Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers at Amazon$90

Best for Plantar Fasciitis:

Best for Neuropathy:Topo Athletic Revive Slipper at Amazon$120Jump to Review

Best for Neuropathy:Topo Athletic Revive Slipper at Amazon$120

Best for Neuropathy:

Best Sneaker Style:SALEAdidas Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe at Amazon$70$49Jump to Review

Best Sneaker Style:SALEAdidas Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe at Amazon$70$49

Best Sneaker Style:

Best OverallVionic Gemma Mule SlippersPHOTO: Amazon$85 at Amazon$85 at ZapposWhat We Like:With a high level of arch support and stability, podiatrists like these for people who suffer from various foot issues.What to Know:The adjustable tab is a nice perk, but sometimes when the tab is pulled to tighten the fit, it can hang far down enough that it touches the ground.Vionic is known for being a podiatrist’s best friend (quite literally—many of their products carry the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance). And the Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers are no different. We tested these cushiony slippers and found them to be soft and durable, with firm arch support and traction. The traction in the sole makes this slipper a nice choice for a quick trip to the mailbox or when taking the garbage out.After wearing them for a few months, we found they formed nicely to the foot, and the arch remained very supportive. We also found the materials to be durable, and the plush fabric stood up to wear and tear. They continue to keep our feet warm, but not sweaty or so warm that we need to take them off.The podiatrists that we chatted with also recommend these for those with plantar fasciitis, flat feet or even someone with arthritis of the foot, as they have a high level of arch support and also create stability for the wearer. “Overall, these are comfy and cozy house slippers,” says Tumen.Available sizes:5 to 12 |Available colors:16 |Fit:True to size |Width:Medium-Wide (regular)PHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell/Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

Best OverallVionic Gemma Mule SlippersPHOTO: Amazon$85 at Amazon$85 at Zappos

Best OverallVionic Gemma Mule Slippers

Best Overall

Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers

PHOTO: Amazon

Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers

$85 at Amazon$85 at Zappos

What We Like:With a high level of arch support and stability, podiatrists like these for people who suffer from various foot issues.

What to Know:The adjustable tab is a nice perk, but sometimes when the tab is pulled to tighten the fit, it can hang far down enough that it touches the ground.

Vionic is known for being a podiatrist’s best friend (quite literally—many of their products carry the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance). And the Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers are no different. We tested these cushiony slippers and found them to be soft and durable, with firm arch support and traction. The traction in the sole makes this slipper a nice choice for a quick trip to the mailbox or when taking the garbage out.

After wearing them for a few months, we found they formed nicely to the foot, and the arch remained very supportive. We also found the materials to be durable, and the plush fabric stood up to wear and tear. They continue to keep our feet warm, but not sweaty or so warm that we need to take them off.

The podiatrists that we chatted with also recommend these for those with plantar fasciitis, flat feet or even someone with arthritis of the foot, as they have a high level of arch support and also create stability for the wearer. “Overall, these are comfy and cozy house slippers,” says Tumen.

Available sizes:5 to 12 |Available colors:16 |Fit:True to size |Width:Medium-Wide (regular)

PHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell/Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

Seated person strapping on Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a carpet

Feet walking in Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on blue rug

Feet crossed, wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a blue carpet

Feet wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a blue carpet

Hand strapping on Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on foot

Feet wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a blue carpet

Feet wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers crossed to show soles on a blue carpet

Seated person strapping on Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a carpet

Feet walking in Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on blue rug

Feet crossed, wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a blue carpet

Feet wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a blue carpet

Hand strapping on Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on foot

Feet wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers on a blue carpet

Feet wearing Vionic Gemma Mule Slippers crossed to show soles on a blue carpet

Best for Sweaty FeetGlerups Slip-on with Rubber SolePHOTO: Amazon$135 at AmazonView on Glerups.com$135 at Backcountry.comWhat We Like:Odor-resistant and quite durable, these slippers also have a wide toe box, which is nice for everyone, especially those with wide feet.What to Know:Stick to this rubber-soled version, not the leather-sole version, for the best traction. Also, not the best fit if you have a high arch.These wool slippers are perfect not only to keep your feet warm, but they’re also A+ for breathability and odor-resistance—key when you have sweaty tootsies. While they also come in leather soles that provide the same upper slipper (meaning they’re just as breathable and odor-resistant), the rubber soles of these Glerups Slip-On Rubber Slippers are great for traction, providing support and stability. One thing to note: During testing, we found that this style doesn’t provide a ton of elevation from toe to heel—so if you have high arches, it may not be right for you. If you have wide feet, however, the toe box provides a ton of room. Our testers noted that they’re of “very good” quality and should last a long time. “These would be a great option [for a house shoe],” says Kuizinas. “They have a wide toe box, are relatively flat and have just enough cushioning to feel comfortable without compromising foot function.“During testing, we initially thought these slippers could be too restrictive. After wearing them for a few weeks, though, these slippers grew on us. They continue to have good support, they’re warm but not overly and the rubber sole has excellent traction.Available sizes:6 to 11 |Available colors:23 |Fit:True to size |Width:RegularPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

Best for Sweaty FeetGlerups Slip-on with Rubber SolePHOTO: Amazon$135 at AmazonView on Glerups.com$135 at Backcountry.com

Best for Sweaty FeetGlerups Slip-on with Rubber Sole

Best for Sweaty Feet

Glerups Slip-on with Rubber Sole

Glerups Slip-on with Natural Rubber Sole

$135 at AmazonView on Glerups.com$135 at Backcountry.com

What We Like:Odor-resistant and quite durable, these slippers also have a wide toe box, which is nice for everyone, especially those with wide feet.

What to Know:Stick to this rubber-soled version, not the leather-sole version, for the best traction. Also, not the best fit if you have a high arch.

These wool slippers are perfect not only to keep your feet warm, but they’re also A+ for breathability and odor-resistance—key when you have sweaty tootsies. While they also come in leather soles that provide the same upper slipper (meaning they’re just as breathable and odor-resistant), the rubber soles of these Glerups Slip-On Rubber Slippers are great for traction, providing support and stability. One thing to note: During testing, we found that this style doesn’t provide a ton of elevation from toe to heel—so if you have high arches, it may not be right for you. If you have wide feet, however, the toe box provides a ton of room. Our testers noted that they’re of “very good” quality and should last a long time. “These would be a great option [for a house shoe],” says Kuizinas. “They have a wide toe box, are relatively flat and have just enough cushioning to feel comfortable without compromising foot function.”

During testing, we initially thought these slippers could be too restrictive. After wearing them for a few weeks, though, these slippers grew on us. They continue to have good support, they’re warm but not overly and the rubber sole has excellent traction.

Available sizes:6 to 11 |Available colors:23 |Fit:True to size |Width:Regular

PHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

A person wearing Glerups Slippers in a living room

A person wearing Glerups Slippers showing the bottoms

A person walking in a living room while wearing Glerups Slippers

A person wearing Glerups Slippers while sitting in a living room

A person wearing Glerups Slippers in a living room

A person wearing Glerups Slippers showing the bottoms

A person walking in a living room while wearing Glerups Slippers

A person wearing Glerups Slippers while sitting in a living room

Most Luxurious

Dearfoams Fireside Shearling Slippers

$75$30 at Amazon$40 at Target$40 at Walmart

What We Like:Despite the fuzzy and warm look of these slippers, the shearling actually keeps your feet cool in warmer months and warm in cooler months.

What to Know:If a super-supportive slipper is what you need, this probably isn’t the slipper for you.

These shearling slippers are warm, cozy, and—surprisingly—work both for hot and cold climates. The shearling is moisture-wicking, making it great for those who have sweaty feet, or walking around in warmer temps. We tested other Dearfoams in the past and found this to be very accurate. While there are more supportive slippers out there, these luxury choices still get a seal of approval from Tumen as a comfy option. “They’re a nice, stylish choice [and] comfy,” he says. However, if you’re suffering from certain foot conditions—like flat feet or plantar fasciitis—another option may be better for you.

After wearing these slippers for a few months, we found them to be extremely supportive. “I was at a four-day conference and on my feet all day from about 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. I came home and wore these slippers for a full day and my feet felt restored,” saysBrierley Horton, M.S., RD, senior editor for EatingWell. Their open-toed design makes them wearable in both warm and cooler weather, and their rubber sole offers traction on wooden floors and stairs.

Available sizes:6 to 11 |Available colors:7 |Fit:True to size |Width:Regular and wide

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers on a rug

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers showing the bottoms

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers while sitting in a living room

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers on a living room rug

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers on a rug

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers showing the bottoms

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers while sitting in a living room

A person wearing Fireside by Dearfoams Women’s Cairns Shearling Slide Slippers on a living room rug

Best SandalsOofos OOriginal SandalPHOTO: Amazon$70$47 at Amazon$60 at Zappos$60 at Nordstrom

Best SandalsOofos OOriginal Sandal

Best Sandals

Oofos OOriginal Sandal

OOFOS OOriginal Sandal

$70$47 at Amazon$60 at Zappos$60 at Nordstrom

What We Like:A great value for the price. Plus, we tested—and love—these for both house shoes and walking sandals.

What to Know:Look elsewhere on this list if you want a house shoe that’ll keep your feet warm.

We also tested these Oofos Ooriginal Sandals alongside 35other sandalsand (perhaps to no one’s surprise) found them to be among the most supportive. “I recommend them to patients for everything—poolside, beach, locker room, house shoes and more!” says Sharkey.

Available sizes:5 to 18 |Available colors:16 |Fit:True to size |Width:Regular

A pair of Oofos Ooriginal Sandals on a rug

A person wearing Oofos Ooriginal Sandals on a rug

A person wearing Oofos Ooriginal Sandals while sitting in a living room

The bottoms of a pair of Oofos Ooriginal Sandals on a rug

A pair of Oofos Ooriginal Sandals on a rug

A person wearing Oofos Ooriginal Sandals on a rug

A person wearing Oofos Ooriginal Sandals while sitting in a living room

The bottoms of a pair of Oofos Ooriginal Sandals on a rug

Best for Plantar FasciitisOrthofeet Charlotte SlippersPHOTO: Orthofeet$90 at AmazonView on Orthofeet.comWhat We Like:They check all the boxes for plantar fasciitis—support, cushioning, softness, and roominess for toes.What to Know:Colors are limited, and you’ll probably need to purchase these online as they’re not often stocked in stores.If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, a condition where inflammation runs from heel to toe and causes pain, the Orthofeet Charlotte slippers are an excellent choice and will surely help your feet. “They provide arch support, have a relatively wide toe box and a soft lining to provide a lot of comfort to the feet and to help offload painful plantar fasciitis,” says Kuizinas. “Orthofeet Charlotte [slippers] are also extremely well cushioned,” says Tumen. During testing, we found these slippers also work very well for flat feet—they have just enough support, but it isn’t overly noticeable on a flatter foot. You can also adjust the support level with one of the two sizes of inserts that come with the slipper. And the fact that you can tighten or loosen the top of the slipper is also something we really like.If you like to shop for shoes in person, know that these are not easy to find in stores. Purchasing online is your best bet.Available sizes:5 to 12 |Available colors:3 |Fit:True to size |Width:Regular, Wide, Extra WidePHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell/Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

Best for Plantar FasciitisOrthofeet Charlotte SlippersPHOTO: Orthofeet$90 at AmazonView on Orthofeet.com

Best for Plantar FasciitisOrthofeet Charlotte Slippers

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers

PHOTO: Orthofeet

Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers

$90 at AmazonView on Orthofeet.com

What We Like:They check all the boxes for plantar fasciitis—support, cushioning, softness, and roominess for toes.

What to Know:Colors are limited, and you’ll probably need to purchase these online as they’re not often stocked in stores.

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, a condition where inflammation runs from heel to toe and causes pain, the Orthofeet Charlotte slippers are an excellent choice and will surely help your feet. “They provide arch support, have a relatively wide toe box and a soft lining to provide a lot of comfort to the feet and to help offload painful plantar fasciitis,” says Kuizinas. “Orthofeet Charlotte [slippers] are also extremely well cushioned,” says Tumen. During testing, we found these slippers also work very well for flat feet—they have just enough support, but it isn’t overly noticeable on a flatter foot. You can also adjust the support level with one of the two sizes of inserts that come with the slipper. And the fact that you can tighten or loosen the top of the slipper is also something we really like.

If you like to shop for shoes in person, know that these are not easy to find in stores. Purchasing online is your best bet.

Available sizes:5 to 12 |Available colors:3 |Fit:True to size |Width:Regular, Wide, Extra Wide

PHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell/Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

A person wearing Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers on a rug

A person putting on Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers

A person placing an orthotic insert into the Orthofeet’s Charlotte slippers

A pair of Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers on a rug

A view of the bottoms of a pair of Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers

A pair of orthotic inserts for Orthofeet’s Charlotte slippers

A person wearing Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers while sitting in a living room

A person wearing Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers on a rug

A person putting on Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers

A person placing an orthotic insert into the Orthofeet’s Charlotte slippers

A pair of Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers on a rug

A view of the bottoms of a pair of Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers

A pair of orthotic inserts for Orthofeet’s Charlotte slippers

A person wearing Orthofeet Charlotte Slippers while sitting in a living room

Best for NeuropathyTopo Athletic Revive SlipperPHOTO: Amazon$120 at Amazon$120 at ZapposView on Roadrunnersports.comWhat We Like:This slipper is designed to be a recovery shoe for runners and other athletes so that 3D Wave Sense Insole technology will gently massage your foot. Just be sure to go sockless with these.What to Know:If the price feels a little steep, you could opt for a running or walking shoe instead, according to podiatrists.Peripheral neuropathy in your feet can feel like burning, numbness, tingling or shooting or stabbing pain in the toes and heel in particular. It shows up when damage is done to the peripheral nervous system. “Generally speaking, for neuropathy you want to have less cushioning to help feet hit the ground surface better,” says Kuizinas. She recommends the Topo Athletic Revive, a recovery shoe that features a wide toe box and “enough support and cushioning to feel comfortable and provide relief for sore foot muscles.” The textured, rubber sole provides great traction and stability, and the upper part features a polyester fleece for comfort and warmth. The slipper also features the brand’s “3D Wave Sense Insole,” for optimal comfort along the bottom of the foot (and is designed to be worn without socks). Tumen notes that “for patients with neuropathy the most important factor is to wear a house shoe all the time and avoid being barefoot.” He often recommends wearing running sneakers in the house for excellent support, good cushioning and stability. Which brings us to our next house shoe…Available sizes:6 to 10 |Available colors:2 |Fit:True to size |Width:RegularPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

Best for NeuropathyTopo Athletic Revive SlipperPHOTO: Amazon$120 at Amazon$120 at ZapposView on Roadrunnersports.com

Best for NeuropathyTopo Athletic Revive Slipper

Best for Neuropathy

Topo Athletic Revive Slipper

Topo Athletic Women’s Revive

$120 at Amazon$120 at ZapposView on Roadrunnersports.com

What We Like:This slipper is designed to be a recovery shoe for runners and other athletes so that 3D Wave Sense Insole technology will gently massage your foot. Just be sure to go sockless with these.

What to Know:If the price feels a little steep, you could opt for a running or walking shoe instead, according to podiatrists.

Peripheral neuropathy in your feet can feel like burning, numbness, tingling or shooting or stabbing pain in the toes and heel in particular. It shows up when damage is done to the peripheral nervous system. “Generally speaking, for neuropathy you want to have less cushioning to help feet hit the ground surface better,” says Kuizinas. She recommends the Topo Athletic Revive, a recovery shoe that features a wide toe box and “enough support and cushioning to feel comfortable and provide relief for sore foot muscles.” The textured, rubber sole provides great traction and stability, and the upper part features a polyester fleece for comfort and warmth. The slipper also features the brand’s “3D Wave Sense Insole,” for optimal comfort along the bottom of the foot (and is designed to be worn without socks). Tumen notes that “for patients with neuropathy the most important factor is to wear a house shoe all the time and avoid being barefoot.” He often recommends wearing running sneakers in the house for excellent support, good cushioning and stability. Which brings us to our next house shoe…

Available sizes:6 to 10 |Available colors:2 |Fit:True to size |Width:Regular

PHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

A person walking on a rug with Topo Everydaywear Slippers

A close up of the Topo Athletic 3D Wave Sense Insole technology

A view of the bottoms of a pair of Topo Athletic Women’s Revive

A pair of Topo Athletic Women’s Revive on a rug

A person wearing Topo Athletic Women’s Revive while sitting in a living room

A person walking on a rug with Topo Everydaywear Slippers

A close up of the Topo Athletic 3D Wave Sense Insole technology

A view of the bottoms of a pair of Topo Athletic Women’s Revive

A pair of Topo Athletic Women’s Revive on a rug

A person wearing Topo Athletic Women’s Revive while sitting in a living room

Best Sneaker StyleAdidas Puremotion Adapt Running ShoePHOTO: Amazon$70$49 at Amazon$25 at Adidas.comView on Belk.comWhat We Like:If you aren’t a slipper wearer, these shoes are a great athletic-looking alternative and work for a variety of foot types and conditions.What to Know:They may not stand up to wear and tear as well as other house shoes on this list.These Adidas Puremotion Adapt shoes feature a laceless design, a snug fit and a “cloudfoam” insole for comfort. “These are great for any foot deformity that requires a stretchy material to accommodate the foot shape—think bunion, hammer toe,” says Sharkey. “They are also great for those with neuropathy because they offer the comfort of a slipper with the stability of a full shoe and the ease of slipping on and off.” But also—as Canuso points out—they work for a number of people who are looking for a more athletic option as a house shoe, offering “a nice amount of cushion and support, while allowing the feet to stretch the shoe in a way that best fits each person’s individual foot type and shape.“Available sizes:5 to 12 |Available colors:45 |Fit:True to size |Width:RegularPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick SimpsonPHOTO: EatingWell / Nick Simpson

Best Sneaker StyleAdidas Puremotion Adapt Running ShoePHOTO: Amazon$70$49 at Amazon$25 at Adidas.comView on Belk.com

Best Sneaker StyleAdidas Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe

Best Sneaker Style

Adidas Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe

adidas Women’s Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe

$70$49 at Amazon$25 at Adidas.comView on Belk.com

What We Like:If you aren’t a slipper wearer, these shoes are a great athletic-looking alternative and work for a variety of foot types and conditions.

What to Know:They may not stand up to wear and tear as well as other house shoes on this list.

These Adidas Puremotion Adapt shoes feature a laceless design, a snug fit and a “cloudfoam” insole for comfort. “These are great for any foot deformity that requires a stretchy material to accommodate the foot shape—think bunion, hammer toe,” says Sharkey. “They are also great for those with neuropathy because they offer the comfort of a slipper with the stability of a full shoe and the ease of slipping on and off.” But also—as Canuso points out—they work for a number of people who are looking for a more athletic option as a house shoe, offering “a nice amount of cushion and support, while allowing the feet to stretch the shoe in a way that best fits each person’s individual foot type and shape.”

Available sizes:5 to 12 |Available colors:45 |Fit:True to size |Width:Regular

A person walking on a rug while wearing Adidas Puremotion shoes

A person wearing Adidas Puremotion shoes in a living room

A view of the bottoms of a pair of Adidas Puremotion shoes

A person putting a pair of Adidas Puremotion shoes on a living room rug

A person walking on a rug while wearing Adidas Puremotion shoes

A person wearing Adidas Puremotion shoes in a living room

A view of the bottoms of a pair of Adidas Puremotion shoes

A person putting a pair of Adidas Puremotion shoes on a living room rug

The Bottom Line: The Best House Shoes and Slippers with Arch Support

The best overall house shoe when it comes to arch support, traction and comfort is a slipper: theGemma Mule from Vionic(view at Amazon). But if you aren’t a slipper wearer—yet you need or want a dedicated house shoe—then we recommend theAdidas Puremotion Adapt sneaker(view at Amazon) as it’s easy to slip on and off and comes in a variety of colors to suit your personal style.

Choosing a House Shoe or Slipper

The podiatrists we interviewed recommend looking for cushioned, comfortable house shoes with a supportive arch, a toe box (if not open-toed) that leaves plenty of toe room and some traction on the sole.

Arch Support

“For those with flatter foot architecture or a history of foot pain, choosing a house shoe with arch support is important. The more the foot is supported, the less fatigue and pain will occur,” says Sharkey. Even if you don’t have a flat foot per se, arch support is valuable. Look for a house shoe or slipper that supports theentirearch, says Canuso.

How can you tell if your shoe has a good arch? Look and feel. “There should be a visible arch support on the outside sole of the shoe as well as extra padding on the insert of the shoe at the arch,” says Canuso. If the slipper doesn’t offer the arch support you need, “Look for a house shoe that can accommodate an insert or orthotic for support,” says Sharkey.

Cushioning and Comfort

“Cushioned house shoes will aid in shock absorption—and less shock traveling through the joints equates to less aches and pains,” says Sharkey. Soles are a good indication of cushioning, something that’s needed for most of us but is even better for people with certain conditions. “Forthose with diabetes, arthritis or anyone with painful calluses, the thicker the sole of the house shoe, the better to protect the foot from hard floors,” says Tumen. In colder months, you may want to look for insulated or lined house shoes to keep your feet warm.

Fit and Traction

Fit and traction are very important here! In fact, fit is almost as important here as it is when selectingwalking shoesor running shoes. “You should never choose house shoes that do not feel comfortable, or do not fit your feet well,” says Kuizinas. So make sure not to go too large or wide in sizing and look for a roomy toe area.

Traction, while sometimes overlooked in a house shoe or slipper, is also helpful. “Good traction will prevent accidental slips and falls. This is especially important for older individuals and those who have impaired balance or decreased sensation in the feet from neuropathy,” says Sharkey.

The best house shoes for plantar fasciitis and neuropathy. Plus best sneaker style house shoe.

Our Search for the Best House Shoes and Slippers

To determine the best house shoes for various feet, we talked with multiple podiatrists, and with their experience and expertise, determined the shoes and slippers worth recommending. Some of the recommended house shoes and slippers were also tested in our lab and we’ve included those insights. Also, all house shoes on this list have undergone (or are currently undergoing) long-term testing so that we can share insights on how the slippers perform over time.

What causes foot pain, and how can I get rid of it?

Every podiatrist we interviewed said the causes of foot pain are vast and varied—from injury to overuse to irregular movement patterns, arthritis and deformities. “It is impossible to pinpoint a specific cause of all foot pain,” says Kuizinas.

Are house shoes good for your feet?

“House shoes are a much better option in the home than walking barefoot,” says Canuso. “A significant amount of stress is put on your feet while doing everyday activities such as cooking, laundry and cleaning, and your feet and body need support while performing these tasks.” Also, as we age, we lose the natural padding on our feet, says Tumen, so house shoes are a great option for walking around the home.

Most podiatrists also agree that house shoes provide relief and support for wearers who have certain conditions—including flat feet, plantar fasciitis, arthritis and more. “For example, someone suffering from heel pain may want to wear an arch support slipper or shoe around the house to reduce tension on their heel. Someone with arthritis may want to wear a stiff-sole shoe around the house to prevent unnecessary joint movement. And some people prefer to wear house shoes for warmth and comfort in the colder months,” says Kuizinas.

How long do house shoes and slippers last?

As with all things, there is an expiration date for house shoes and slippers. They don’t last forever. “But depending on the material that the slipper is made from and the amount of wear and tear from simple home activities, they can last years,” saysWenjay Sung, D.P.M., podiatrist at USC Arcadia Hospital in Arcadia, CA.

“If a house slipper is made of rubber or a latex-type material, I usually say two to three years because the amount of activity at home is generally not too abrasive to the slipper and the durable material will help it sustain normal wear and tear from home activities,” says Sung.

If the house slipper is made of a cloth-type material, Sung says it’s best to replace them every six months to a year. “The rationale for replacing cloth-type slippers more frequently is that build-up of bacteria and fungus from sweat, dirt or a combination thereof can deteriorate cloth-type slippers more rapidly with normal wear and tear,” says Sung.

Some European and Australian brands are made of foam composites that have microbial-resistant properties. As a result, these house shoes and slippers are quite durable and can last for several years.

Samantha Leal, a contributing writer for EatingWell, has more than 14 years of experience writing about wellness and health and has contributed to places like Well+Good, Refinery29, Glamour, Teen Vogue, VinePair, Wine Enthusiast and more. For this article she interviewed a few podiatrists to come up with their recommendations for the best house shoes and slippers.

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