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Warmth and comfort start with our feet, and when seasons change, temps drop, or we're just settling into a relaxing morning at home, there is nothing better than a soft, cozy slipper to set the mood. No matter your vibe, we've got you and your feet covered.
To find the best slippers for women today, we researched top-sellers from well-known and unknown brands alike, purchasing over a dozen pairs for foot-on testing. Our testers examined each pair in hand, soaking them under running water, measuring the thickness of their outsoles and insoles, and even placing them in a freezer to evaluate their insulation and heat retention. With valuable data in hand, we then got to “work” exploring each slipper's limits for comfort and functionality, relaxing in them, lounging on the couch, and padding around the house, garden, and neighborhood.
Our favorite overall slipper is the OluKai Ku'i. This slip-on clog style is super comfortable and well-insulated with shearling sheepskin and a durable, high-traction sole heavy enough for outdoors. Those seeking a comfy budget option should check out the HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer, which you can pick up for the price of a few lattes. It has a memory foam footbed, perfect for lounging around the house on cold days.
Comfortable fleece-lined slipper, inexpensive, memory foam heel, hard outsole for outdoor utility, easy to clean
Cons
Limited arch support, white sides of sole show dirt
Not very breathable
Chunky sole clunks on hardwood floors, not very packable
Lacks insulation, sized wide
Felt insulation packs out after several months of use, not ideal for indoor use
Takes a while to dry out, narrow fit, smaller sizing, toes get sweaty
Lacks water resistance, outsole is not very durable, lacks support
Hair and debris can stick to the fur, lacks support and a precise fit
Lacks stand-alone warmth, no traction on ice
Very slippery on ice, tight fit around the ankle
Cheap construction, packs out quickly, lacks traction
Thin sole, little cushion or arch support, runs small, synthetic liner feels sticky when wet
Packs out easily, no defined support, cheap construction
Bottom Line
With a stylish, laid-back aesthetic, the fleecy lining and cushioned footbed give the coziest fit for indoor and outdoor use, making them a versatile option for everyday wear
Boasting a cozy shearling insulation with a superior construction, this moccasin-style slipper is built to wear during the cold days of the year
This premium slipper excels in nearly every category tested and is designed for durability, ensuring it will provide comfort and support for years to come
Classy slippers made from durable wool felt, featuring a cork footbed that supports your arch and molds to a custom fit over time, hugging your feet like a bear hug
The best camp slipper has arrived, specially designed to perform outdoors, even in the coldest of weather
Another cozy moccasin with a narrow fit and excellent construction quality
A minimalist slipper designed exclusively for indoor use that utilizes natural smell-resistant materials
This high-value, well-constructed slipper is built with a memory foam footbed and cozy materials
Outstanding for maximum underfoot support, this slipper is built to wear and walk in all day long
A warm camp slipper built for both indoor and outdoor use
Another cozy cross-band slipper with a low price tag, but it lacks traction
Comfortable and classic, this moccasin features a stylish upper that hugs your foot within its cozy faux fur lining
A simple, comfortable clog with an appealing price tag and a wide fit
The OluKai Ku'i slippers are a fantastic blend of comfort and style, well-equipped to transition from cuddles on the couch to a casual outfit for a cafe. The full-grain leather upper and genuine sheepskin shearling lining look and feel luxurious, while a full fur collar insulates the slipper opening. Our lead tester said, “I loved how the silky puff of fleece lining hugged my toes; these are my first pick for all-day cozy self-care, but I found myself even wearing them out to mountain towns and surf shops.” We found the Ku'i lost little heat during our freezer test, noting the thick sterling linings retained interior heat well even after five minutes in subzero temperatures. The footbed also has a soft, felted liner, providing breathability. The result: the Ku'i slippers may be an investment, but they can serve you comfortably well over all four seasons, facilitating airflow even when temperatures rise. One notable feature of these slippers is their cushioned support and ergonomic shape that cradles the foot for all-day comfort. The modern traction on the soles provides excellent grip even when wet, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Whether you're cuddled up in front of the fireplace or running outside to take out the trash, these slippers will surely keep your feet happy.
Kate Pitts, our lead tester, was quick to say, “I love this clog slipper!” However, she also points out they are quite heavy and would be bulky for travel. Due to the stiff construction, these will take up a lot of room in a travel bag and add over a pound to your baggage weight. For something super light that's easy to take on the road, consider the HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer. If you prefer a moccasin-style slipper, theL.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasin or Minnetonka Women's Cally Moccasin both offer high-quality insulation and will be quieter when padding down the halls of your home for a midnight snack. You can't go wrong with the UGG Tasman if you want a thicker-soled clog with maximum insulation. To up the warmth, it has a fully fleeced interior, including the footbed. Overall, the OluKai Ku'i are our favorite investment slippers, perfect for anyone willing to spend more for superior comfort, versatility, and support, inside or out.
The Ku'i slippers have become a tester favorite for nearly every occasion, from enjoying a cozy cup of morning coffee to quick trips outside to feed the cat. We love that they are stylish enough to wear for casual outings at the farmer's market while also being practical for relaxing under a warm blanket. Truly, these slippers offer cozy support for a dynamic lifestyle.
The HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer stands out for its lounging performance at a very reasonable price point. During testing, these loafers quickly became our go-to options to wear around the house. We love the breathable, cozy upper and the silky memory foam midsole. Our lead tester didn't hesitate to single these out as a favorite, saying “I love how the thin rubber outsole offers just enough protection and traction to run outside to get the mail, but they don't make a peep when I am tiptoeing around the house trying not to wake others in the early morning.” The polyester materials are machine-washable, making them easy to clean after regular use, and we were pleased to see little sign of wear after multiple cycles through the washer. At just 4.4 ounces, you hardly notice these superlight slippers on your foot. This also makes them easy to throw into a bag for travel.
While the HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer is a nice home-use option, its outdoor applications are limited. The uppers are constructed from a purported “water-resistant” polyester material, but this was not our experience when faced with moisture. While walking outside in the snow, we found the upper readily absorbed moisture if we accidentally stepped in a puddle. We preferred the North Face ThermoBall Traction Mules V and Chaco Ramble Puff for walking in wet conditions. The HomeTop loafers also lack support in the heel and arch, making them a better fit for moving across halls than around the block. To their benefit, the material was only minimally packed out after three months of use. This is somewhat of a surprise in a low-cost slipper, making it a high-value, comfortable, and cute option perfect for lounging around the house. If you prefer an open-toe design that's ultra soft, tester Amber King is happy to point you to the Parlovable Cross Band, saying, “I think these make a great casual house slipper — they have the softest fluff.” However, if your floors are painfully cold and you really need something ultra-warm, check out a fleecy closed-toe slipper like the Minnetonka Women's Cally Moccasin instead.
The HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer uses an ankle-high collar, comfortable polyester upper, and memory foam insole. Its thin construction is breathable and light for all day wear, best for lounging and doing chores around the house.
The L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasins are traditional moccasins touted for their warmth, coziness, and durability. The shearling wool is plush, soft, and doesn't itch. We appreciate how easily they slip on and hug each foot as you move. The rubber nonslip outsole and memory foam midsole offer enough combined insulation, protection, and traction to comfortably walk across slippery outdoor pathways. The suede upper is surprisingly water resistant, which enables you to walk through wet grass or shallow puddles without worry. But what impressed us the most was the construction quality of these moccasins. Even after more than a five-mile walk, we saw minimal compaction to the midsole, and the outsole still looked new.
While there's a lot to love about the Wicked Good Moccasin, we think they work best as a winter option since the design is not very breathable. On warmer days, the thick insulation and closed-toe construction made our feet hot, sometimes even to the point of sweating. On days like this, we would switch to a more open slipper with a summer-weight lining like the Haflinger GZ. While the L.L. Bean Moccasin's midsole offers overall cushiony support, there's minimal structure under the foot's arch. This may prove uncomfortable for some who do a lot of standing or walking in their slippers. They also feel a little small for their size and a bit narrow in the forefoot. If your foot measures between sizes, we suggest sizing up to account for this. Without a doubt, the Wicked Good Moccasins are cozy and comfortable, offering standout construction and warmth on cold days. If you love a moccasin vibe but prefer less fluff, consider the UGG Ansley Moccasin, which provides more ventilation. An excellent budget option is the Minnetonka Women's Cally Moccasin, which sells at a reasonable mid-range price in various fun colors in sueded leather and patterned fabric.
Easily slide your feet into the super cozy L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasins. The rubber outsole is suitable for wear inside and outside the house.
Suffer from achy feet? Our most supportive shoe is the Haflinger GZ, with a cork and latex footbed that offers extraordinary arch support compared to other options in our lineup. Our testers described the experience of wearing them as “Giving your feet a daily dose of TLC from a cozy, woolly masseuse.” The cork footbeds are not only designed to cup the ball and heel of your feet, providing arch support in between, but they also mold perfectly to deliver a custom fit for each foot over time. A sturdy rubber sole ensures you can confidently strut, knowing your feet are well-protected and grippy. Our lead tester commented, “These are my favorite summer-weight slippers because the short felt is soft but doesn't trap heat when I walk.” We love how the wool adds warmth without being sticky, and as a natural fiber, it does a superior job of managing odors. If more insulation is needed, the open design is spacious enough for cozy socks, making these great slippers to use across four seasons. When you slip your foot inside, it's met with a soft, felted wool interior, and they are easy to slip on and off –- no wiggling required. Finally, the southwest detailing creates a classy look with the natural wool exterior, meaning they can even double as a soft, supportive slide for casual outings.
The Haflinger GZ slippers are not our first choice for cold winter days. They are less warm than other options due ot the open, breathable design. In our freezer tests, they lost substantial warmth compared to other options in our lineup. If you want a slipper with maximum support but still want the soft feel of fleece under your toes, we suggest the Birkenstock Zermatt Shearling. Or, if you are okay with slightly less arch support but want cushioned stability and maximum stand-alone warmth in a slip-on style, check out the OluKai Ku'i or UGG Tasman for deliciously “toasty toes” wrapped in natural fleece linings. For those who will need to pop outside on snowy days or just live in a house with cold floors, you may find the best match is a slipper that offers wrap-around insulation and a fleecy interior like the Wicked Good Moccasins by L.L. Bean.
From her morning routine to walking the pup at the park, our lead tester finds the Classic Grizzly slippers provide exceptional arch support. With every step, her feet feel aligned and comfortable, reducing strain and fatigue.
Even though it's designed to be a camp slipper, the Chaco Ramble Puff turned into one tester's everyday outdoor shoe, its utility far surpassing the campground and extending to casual wear around town, travel, and even easy hiking. We tested it for three months, wearing it every day. We wore it while walking slick trails around home in Colorado, on dates to the local pub, traveling to desert locales, and as a winter bootie in the subzero winter temperatures of Toronto, Ontario. We appreciated the easy-to-use buckles that made it painless to slip on and off. At only 6.8 ounces per bootie with just a thin upper, the lightweight construction is incredibly breathable, even while the interior remains fleecy and cozy to the touch. The Ramble Puff also incorporates some arch and heel support, making it surprisingly comfortable to walk in for many miles.
While we love the outdoor utility of the Ramble Puff, we didn't wear it inside all that often. Beyond running errands and occasionally wearing it to work, this isn't the slipper we would pick for days inside or lounging around the house. We logged about 50 miles of walking in this bootie during our test period and noticed the midsole started to pack out towards the end of that stretch. However, lead tester Amber King notes, “Even considering this knock to their long-term durability and function, I love these and felt they delivered so consistently that I would still buy another pair.” If you're looking for a slightly warmer bootie with a much thicker midsole -– albeit with less traction over icy surfaces –- consider The North Face ThermoBall Traction Mules V. Or, if you just need a budget slipper for traveling and won't be spending time in the mud outdoors, consider the Hometop Curly Loafer or Dearfoams Velour Clog, which are easy to fold or roll into the nooks and crannies of a suitcase.
The Chaco Ramble Puff features a breathable, water-resistant upper and a supportive insole. It quickly became our go-to outdoor shoe throughout the fall and even into the winter.
For indoor wear only, the Glerups Slip-On is among our favorite daily slippers for women, especially among those who love a minimalist, on-the-ground feel. This model features a 0.1 mm thick outsole that protects your feet from dirt, dust, and other debris while delivering a footwear experience that feels almost like wearing nothing at all. Weighing in at just 4.2 ounces, these are incredibly lightweight and easy to pack for travel. The natural wool uppers are thin and breathable, providing excellent odor resistance that makes these an ideal choice for individuals who tend to sweat. The leather outsole lacks a traction pattern, resembling the base of a ballet slipper rather than an outdoor shoe, which facilitates quiet movement on squeaky indoor floors (although Glerups does sell a model with a rubber sole as well). Their overall construction includes high-quality stitching and sustainably sourced materials. But while the sizing is true to fit, the design is slightly narrow through the forefoot, so you may want to size up if you have a wider foot. Despite their minimal construction, these shoes performed very well during walking tests, comfortably cradling our feet without any issues of slipping.
Even though we love the minimalist design of the Glerups Slip-On, it might not be what you imagine when you think of a house slipper. While the leather outsole offers plenty of performance indoors, it is soft and will quickly break down if you wear these outdoors, especially in wet weather. After our five-mile walk, the soft outsole was indentated from small rocks, and we even noticed a few small tears in places. The all-wool uppers should be naturally water resistant, but we found they soaked through almost instantly when walking through snow and water. These slip-ons are hand-wash only and are not as easy to clean as other travel-friendly slippers that can go through a washer and dryer cycle like the Hometop Curly Loafer. If you would prefer a similarly breathable slipper with a touch more warmth and better durability underfoot, check out the Birkenstock Zermatt Shearling. They have a thicker cork outsole that is far more durable and supportive, plus they feature a cozy liner and a naturally odor-resistant upper. If you love the “barefoot” sensation that allows you to feel grounded to the earth and appreciate the style of a moccasin slipper, you will also like the Minnetonka Women's Moccasin. But for a minimalist, indoor, natural wool slipper, you won't do better than the Glerups Slip-On.
The Glerups Slip-On uses a thin natural wool construction, making it very breathable. If you struggle with stinky, sweaty feet, this is the one to consider.
Credit: Amber King
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After a long day, we love to kick off our muddy trail runners, boots, or climbing shoes and slide into soft slippers. A smile spreads with every plush step.
Credit: Kate Pitts
How We Tested
To start our testing process, we dedicated several hours to researching the best slippers available on the market. We identified over 60 viable options before choosing and purchasing the most promising pairs at retail prices to eliminate any bias in our review.
We then evaluated each pair, assessing their construction quality straight out of the box before putting them through an extended testing period of three months. Each pair was put through the daily rigors of a slipper and judged based on how comfortable and supportive it was to our feet. In addition to regular wear, we placed each slipper in the freezer to evaluate its insulative warmth and breathability. To compare house slippers with outdoor-built ones, we tested their water resistance by running them first under the faucet and then by wearing them outside during stormy conditions. To assess support and walkability comparatively, we walked at least five miles in each pair outside. Finally, we weighed and measured the slippers to evaluate their packability. After conducting rigorous side-by-side tests, we scored their overall performance across all key metrics. This thorough research and testing now ensures we can provide you with valuable insights and recommendations to simplify your buying process.
Testing the L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasins for water resistance. In addition to wearing them outside in the elements, we ran each pair under the faucet to compare them side-by-side.
Credit: Amber King
Our slipper selection was tested and assessed using six performance metrics:
Comfort (30% of total score weighting)
Insulation (20% weighting)
Breathability (20% weighting)
Construction Quality (15% weighting)
Walking Performance (10% weighting)
Packability (5% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
“Work hard, play hard – rest well, be well,” reflects lead tester Kate Pitts about her commitment to finding and sharing the best women's slippers. With over a decade of experience as a National Park Service Ranger at Rocky Mountain, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Haleakalā, Kate knows a thing or two about tired feet, seasonal changes, and the cozy comfort of a great pair of slippers once she hits the couch. After a recent transition to wilderness guiding in the Rocky Mountains and desert southwest, she combines her extensive outdoor expertise with gear testing across various wilderness settings. When not hiking in the great outdoors, she enjoys teaching yoga and pampering her feet. As a yoga instructor, she also understands that healthy feet are crucial for overall body well-being, and your slippers are an investment in self-care.
Amber King is a seasoned product review editor with over ten years of gear-testing experience. Working from home, Amber considers herself a “slipper snob,” wearing her collection of slippers all day, whether at home or her co-working space, and often to a cafe, pub, or on a walk from there. She has headed up reviews of several other categories of footwear, including our reviews of women's trail running shoes and winter boots for women. She also worked for years as a manager at Patagonia and other outdoor retail stores selling high-performance and athletic gear, including footwear.
The weight of a slipper can make a big difference on how it feels on your feet. The UGG Tasman is supportive and insulating, but is also one of the heavier slippers we tested.
We absolutely loved the versatility and performance of the Chaco Ramble Puff, especially for outdoor adventures.
We backed up our real-world testing with laboratory-style measurements, including measuring the difference in internal temperature after a stint in the freezer.
We feel thankful to “test a good rest” while trying out slippers that show our feet appreciation for the journeys traveled.
Analysis and Test Results
You've come to the right place for trusted, unbiased advice on finding your next pair of slippers. As an essential piece of household footwear, a good pair of slippers will help keep your feet and floors clean while also aiding in regulating temperature loss. Slippers should be lightweight and cozy enough for lounging, yet versatile enough to wear briefly outdoors when you need to grab the mail, take out the trash, or say hello to a neighbor.
Our review examines all types of slippers available on the market. While most of our selection consists of indoor slippers, we've also included a few outdoor-ready options to provide a comprehensive overview for your shopping needs. When considering your purchase, consider where and how often you plan to wear your slippers before setting your budget. That said, a few stood out for their exceptional overall value.
What's the Best Value?
You don't have to break the bank to find a great pair of slippers! We've tested many affordable options that are perfect for the budget-savvy. While we don't focus on price when scoring, we believe in making wise spending choices. After all, the best product for your needs may not be the most expensive, and extra dollars can always go toward other important gear you might need. We made sure to look closely at slippers that are budget-friendly but still perform beautifully.
After comparing various brands, the Curly Fur Loafers provide excellent value. With a cozy blend of softness, comfort, traction, and affordability, they have become one of our favorite house slippers.
Credit: Kate Pitts
At the top of our list is the HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer. This cute, full-polyester slipper offers better construction quality than other low-cost options and performed impressively even after several rounds in the washer and dryer. The upper is warm and breathable, while the thin memory foam outsole provides just the right amount of underfoot protection. It scores amongst many top performers yet comes in at a fraction of the price. Of the camp slippers, The North Face Thermoball Mules are well constructed, very warm, and more affordable than the Chaco Ramble Puff.
Although they lack the grip of the Chaco Ramble Puff (back), the warm, well-cushioned North Face ThermoBall slippers are still a fan-favorite, especially in the winter.
Credit: Amber King
Comfort
Comfort is essential. A good pair of slippers should be something you look forward to slipping your feet into. They should be lightweight, with even weight distribution across the shoe. Additionally, they must provide support exactly where you need it. To assess comfort, we tested these slippers by “lounging on the job” for hours and thoroughly examined factors such as material softness, supportive design, fit, ease of slipping them on, and weight distribution.
Topping the charts for comfort are the Wicked Good Moccasins. This super cozy moccasin-style slipper features an incredibly soft and warm shearling wool liner. You can put it on and take it off quickly given its slip-on design, while the memory foam offers decent underfoot cushioning.
Cozy, long wool fibers like those found on the L.L. Bean Wicked Good Slippers top the charts when it comes to comfort.
Credit: Amber King
The Haflinger GZ is one of the most comfortable slippers in terms of foot support. Arch support is built into the footbed, making them ideal for people with high arches or a history of plantar fasciitis. These slippers are also well suited to people with wider feet. The cork will naturally sculpt to your foot over time, offering the coveted comfort of a custom insole.
The felted material of the Grizzly is ultra-soft, but not fleecy, making this slipper ideal for summer or paired with socks
Credit: Kate Pitts
The OluKai Ku'i offers one of the most balanced options, walking the line perfectly between its ultra-soft interior, a well-cushioned anatomically shaped footbed, and all-day breathability. One of our testers commented, “My toes voted on the Ku'i, scoring them a full ten for being silky-soft.” The premium shearling lining is one of the softest materials in our lineup, while the felted liner ensures this cozy slipper is both comfortable and breathable. However, the pair can run a bit small, so size up if you have a wider foot.
The Ku'i slippers hug the feet just right, offering comfort and support without pinching or slipping. They hug your feet and feature a springy sole that keeps your feet happy.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Birkenstock Zermatt is another pair featuring a cozy shearling wool liner with superior underfoot support in the heel and under the arch. The L.L. Bean doesn't have the same support but is far cozier than the Zermatt, which lacks insulation across the upper.
We love the Birkenstock Zermatt for its ultra-stable design, lightweight feel, and its stylish appeal.
Credit: Amber King
The UGG Tasman has a wide, well-cushioned footbed, and the interior is fully lined with a soft, cozy fleece. And because it's a classic clog-style slipper, it slides on and off more easily than the L.L. Bean moccasins will.
Although the Tasman lacks arch or heel support, its cushioning is comfortable for longer walks, office wear, or gardening tasks. We measured it as one of the most insulating shoes, and the shearling fleece is warm and cozy in the early morning chill.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The UGG Ansley is a lighter-weight alternative to the Tasman. It is similar in design to the Wicked Good Moccasins but has slightly less insulation, a touch less stability, and a slimmer fit than the Tasman or the Wicked Good Moccasins.
The UGG Ansley Moccasin provides excellent coziness and comfort for all-day wear. The suede upper is flexible while the sole offers stability and protection when heading out the door.
Credit: Amber King
The HomeTop Curly Loafer and Glerups Slip-On are comfortable house slippers. They are very soft and come with thinner materials and soles than many others. This makes them among the best options we tested for sprawling in a recliner or padding quietly down the stairs. The HomeTop Loafer wraps around your foot and sits softly when you cross your legs. The Glerups might appeal to those wanting something lightweight without heavy insulation. They feature a soft felt wool upper that snuggles the foot but forgoes any fur or fleece to add extra warmth. The Glerups are a minimalist alternative to the overly plush slippers we often lean toward out of habit, something we appreciate as temperatures change throughout the year. Unfortunately, neither the HomeTop nor the Glerups offer much in the way of support underfoot. But they are both very lightweight and easy to pack, and since they each distribute weight evenly across each slipper, you will find it far easier to tiptoe around the house when trying to go unnoticed.
Throughout the day, whether reading a book, baking cookies, or practicing yoga in bed, the HomeTop Curly Fur feels soft, weightless, and warm.
Credit: Kate Pitts
For those who want an ultra-cozy house slipper or a minimalist town shoe, the Minnetonka Cally Moccasin is fully lined with soft faux-fur. The sole is thick enough to protect your feet from sticks and stones but thin enough for those who prefer a “barefoot feel” to grip the earth on a long walk.
Our testers found that the Minnetoka does run small, so if you have wide feet or are in a half-size, then you should size up.
Credit: Kate Pitts
We also love the criss-cross design of the Parlovable Cross Band, which features silky faux fur and proved to be one of the softest slippers in our tests. The open-toe design is impressively cozy. However, they don't offer much support. The Dearfoams Velour Clog is the way to go for more cushion. It molds to your foot shape with memory foam and provides insulation against a cold floor. It is also especially comfortable if you have a wider forefoot.
The cross-band style slippers we tested, like the Parlovable Cross Band, have long faux fur that feel heavenly to slip into.
Credit: Amber King
Insulation
When choosing a slipper that meets your needs, insulation is an important factor to consider, as the level of warmth affects your overall comfort. We tested a variety of insulation strategies to identify options suitable for everything from summer slides to cozy, year-round slippers. We evaluated the insulative properties of each slipper, noting factors such as the type of insulation used, insulation density, sole thickness, and coverage at both the toe and heel.
We performed a freezer test to verify our qualitative observations on insulative warmth objectively. Using an infrared thermometer, we measured the temperature inside a slipper before closing off the opening and putting it into a temperature-controlled freezer for five minutes. After removing the slipper, we measured the temperature again and charted the change before and after to calculate heat loss. This gave us a good idea of which slippers would hold heat longer than others. Our last and final test was to wear each slipper outside in cold weather and note which ones felt subjectively warmer.
To test the insulating ability of each slipper, we measured the temperature before and after putting all the slippers into a controlled-temperature freezer for five minutes. We then observed which slippers were able to retain the most heat.
The thick fur lining of the LL Bean Wicked Good Moccasins did a fantastic job of retaining internal heat.
We used an infrared thermometer to track the heat retention of each slipper.
Topping the charts for their insulation are the UGG Tasman, OluKai Ku'i, UGG Ansley, and L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasin. All are built distinctively, yet each provides a similar level of warmth. One thing these shoes have in common is a thick sole that provides ample insulation as a barrier between your feet and the chilly ground. The Tasman has a large sole underfoot (2.2 mm), the Wicked Good Moccasins have a thinner sole (1.1 mm), and the Ansley is right in between (1.6 mm). The L.L. Bean moccasins have much more insulation than either of the UGG options, while the Ansley features thicker fur than the Tasman. The clog-style Tasman and Ku'i offer more space than the tighter-fitting Ansley moccasin but provide insulation with a puffy fleece lining.
The degrees Celsius lost from each slipper during our five-minute freezer test. Slippers with fewer degrees lost hold more heat than those with a higher number. (Note: The Parlovable Cross Band was not tested due to its inherently open-toe design.)
Credit: Kate Pitts
These observations were verified during our freezer tests. The Tasman and OluKai Ku'i lost only 3.3 degrees and the Wicked Good Moccasins only 3.9 degrees Celsius after five minutes in the freezer. The UGG Ansley actually had the best performance in this test, losing only 1.5 degrees Celsius. These top results are all in comparison to other slippers that lost between 5-8 degrees Celsius during the same time.
We love the cozy fur lining and overall insulation of the top-rated Ansley Moccasin.
Credit: Amber King
The amount of fleece lining will impact how much warmth sits next to your skin. Natural materials like wool are both insulative and breathable. Testers appreciated how the shearling lining of the OluKai Ku'i feels like a cozy, soft cloud on a chilly day, yet still ventilated well.
The fur band surrounding the entrance to the Ku'i slide-on keeps heat from escaping and warms the back of the foot.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Camp slippers, by design, are built to keep your feet warm outdoors. The North Face Thermoball and Chaco Ramble Puff are specifically built to perform in cold environments, losing 3.2 and 4.7 degrees Celsius, respectively, in our freezer test. We wore the Chacos almost every day through the fall and winter, and they became our go-to outdoor shoes when hanging around a campfire. The Thermoball slippers offer more stand-alone warmth than the Ramble Puff because they have more insulation and a thicker sole, so they are a great choice for cold nights at camp.
Heel thickness contributes to stand-alone warmth, so we measured the thickest part of each sole with a caliper. Some of the thickest slippers include (left to right) the UGG Tasman, Birkenstock Zermatt, and North Face Thermoball.
Credit: Amber King
Breathability
No one enjoys having hot, sweaty feet. To assess the level of breathability you require, consider your personal needs, how you plan to use the slippers, and the climate in which you'll be regulating your foot temperature. Slippers with thinner uppers, naturally odor-resistant materials, and a design that promotes airflow are generally the most breathable options.
To assess breathability, we conducted the same freezer test we used to gauge insulation but analyzed the data differently. We sealed off the opening of each slipper and measured the temperature before and after a designated time in a temperature-controlled freezer. Pairs that held the least amount of heat were deemed the most breathable. We also wore each shoe around the house and outdoors in warm weather, noting those with the best airflow and whether or not we were plagued with sweaty feet.
A lineup of slippers, ready to test. We used an infrared thermometer to measure the change in temperature before and after sealing them in a freezer.
Credit: Amber King
One of our most breathable shoes is the Haflinger GZ, which has a wool-felt upper and footbed liner. In addition to the breathability of the thinner wool material, the footbed is open, and its slip-on clog style ventilates from the back, keeping feet dry. The shoe's natural materials (thin wool felt and cork) also offer natural odor control. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the all-polyester and memory foam HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer — no natural materials in sight — came in as a top performer for breathability as well, primarily due to its high-lofted upper and low-cut, slip-on design.
The Classic Grizzly's felted wool offers a premium balance of insulation and breathability. With an interior roomy enough to accommodate socks on chilly days, these are among the best slippers for all-seasons.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Another pair you'll never have to worry about your feet breathing in is the Glerups Slip-On. It has a thin lanolin wool upper and a large opening around the ankle, offering ample ventilation. The Birkenstock Zermatt Shearling has a thicker outsole but also uses a slim felt wool upper for a wonderfully breathable slipper. Both of these models score at the top of our list in this metric.
We measured the comparative upper thickness during our breathability tests. The thinner the upper, the better it breathes. The Birkenstock Zermatt (along with the Glerups Slip-On, center) have a thin upper, making them among the most breathable contenders.
Credit: Amber King
We also wholeheartedly recommend cross-band style slippers. The Parlovable Cross Band combines ultra-soft insulation with an open toe and heel concept that provides ample ventilation. The UGG Talsman also breathes well, which is surprising given its plush cushioning and hearty insulation. During all-day wear, we noted that the slip-on design of the clog nicely balances the insulation, allowing it to thermoregulate well.
The thinnest slippers are typically the most breathable. The Glerups shine in this category for their thin yet warm design that keeps feet dry.
Credit: Amber King
Finally, we must shout out to the outdoor-ready Chaco Ramble Puff. This fully enclosed bootie utilizes a highly breathable fleece construction, with ventilation occurring through the material. We wore these outside almost every day in all types of weather, and our feet stayed dry and comfortable, even when temperatures spiked.
From walks through the woods to hanging by the campfire, we're impressed by the breathability and overall versatility of the Chaco Ramble Puff.
Credit: Amber King
The OluKai Ku'i strikes a commendable balance between insulation and breathability out of our fleecy clog options. The wool fleece naturally breathes, but the design helps as the footbed has a thinner lining.
Fleece lines the upper foot while the footbed is a thin, felted wool that keeps the bottom of the foot (the part most likely to sweat) ventilated and dry while walking or on warmer weather days.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Construction Quality
Construction quality is crucial in determining how well a slipper is made and how durable it is in various conditions. We meticulously examined the stitching, insole, midsole, and outsole materials and took important measurements like outsole thickness. We tested each pair under a faucet to evaluate water resistance and wore them outside in the snow and on wet grass. Each pair was worn for at least five miles, allowing us to observe any material compression or wear by the end of the testing period. Additionally, we identified which slippers are machine washable and which require hand washing, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed choice for your lifestyle.
High-quality craftsmanship creates long-lasting slippers with thick, durable soles that show minimal compaction over time. The Haflinger GZ is designed for durability, featuring water-resistant felt, odor-resistant natural materials, and a sturdy, grippy sole.
The Classic Grizzly cork footbed resists rapid compaction and molds to your foot over time, enhancing comfort during extended wear.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The Wicked Good Moccasins showed little to no wear after walking over rocks, gravel, wet grass, mud, and more. The suede upper offers respectable water resistance while the natural materials underfoot are nice and durable. We never worried about venturing outside or through a puddle in these versatile moccasins from L.L. Bean.
This suede outer of the Wicked Good Moccasin is surprisingly water resistant, allowing you to walk through wet grass or through shallow puddles without worry.
Credit: Amber King
The UGG Tasman performs similarly but offers less water resistance than the Wicked Good Moccasins. For example, the Wicked Good Moccasins stayed drier much longer than the Tasman when walking through the snow.
We love the Ugg Tasman for many reasons, but the fact that they are hand-wash only is not one of them.
Credit: Amber King
If you want a slipper with an excellent cushion that doesn't compress over time, the OluKai Ku'i is one of our favorites for extended walking on chilly days. The leather upper is weather-resistant, durable, and well-stitched. The most visible signs of wear are the white soles, which show dirt if you wear them in muddy areas.
The Kui'i features durable and stylish stitching, a premium leather exterior, wet-grip traction, and above-average springy cushion.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The cork outsole of the Birkenstock Zermatt is incredibly durable and showed no signs of wear after our tests. Given our tester's thorough background using Birkenstock footwear, we expect the Zermatt to have a similarly long lifespan.
The cork construction of the insole on the Zermatt is robust and stable for all-day wear or regular walks.
Credit: Amber King
Both outdoor options, The North Face Thermoball and Chaco Ramble Puff, excelled in this metric. Our lead tester commented, “I logged over 50 miles in the Chaco — they are ideal for a busy outdoor life.” After that lengthy test period, the Chaco's soles were packed down a bit, but their traction showed little wear and tear. If you don't cover long miles in your slippers, it will take far longer to wear down the cushioning.
Some neighborhood walks offer better views than others, and some slippers performed better than others after many morning rambles.
Credit: Amber King
Walking Performance
A good walking slipper provides a stable, nonslip platform, stays securely on your foot, and offers a comfortable fit for all-day wear. Ideally, it should also be suitable for outdoor use when necessary. Our testers walked between 5 and 50 miles in each pair, evaluating their comfort, fit, traction, and support in indoor and outdoor settings.
The standout in this metric is undoubtedly the Chaco Ramble Puff, which is not your traditional slipper construction. This bootie is built for wearing outdoors and around the campsite. The lightweight, breathable upper flexes and moves with the foot while offering ample support underfoot. The rubber sole provides excellent traction, sticking to super wet and slippery surfaces. While this was our favorite for walking performance, it's not a slipper we would wear indoors.
While the Chaco Ramble Puff isn't your traditional indoor slipper, it's built for use outdoors. It breathes well while keeping your foot warm, even in the snow.
Credit: Amber King
As the most supportive shoe in our lineup, the Haflinger GZ has built-in arch support, something people managing conditions like plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, or high arches will appreciate.
The felted wool material wicks sweat, making it one of the more aerated slippers for long walks. An insert extends from the heel to the arch, making it an ideal choice for anyone who needs arch support.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The OluKai Ku'i footbed features a cushioned rebound suitable for long walks, and its contoured design supports all-day comfort. Its traction is also ideal for outdoor walking.
The only thing that could be improved is arch support, which could easily be solved by sizing up and putting in arched insoles.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Out of the best indoor options, we heartily recommend the UGG Tasman and the Birkenstock Zermatt. The Tasman has extra support under the heel and cradles the entire foot while walking. If you size it correctly, it comfortably stays on the foot, and the thick outsole offers excellent protection from wet and snowy sidewalks. The Zermatt is similar, except its support is primarily under the ball of the foot with a specific cradle for the heel. If you've ever worn a Birkenstock shoe, you know the outsole eventually molds to your foot shape over time, making it more and more comfortable with every step. Both are excellent options if you are on your feet all day and need supportive slippers.
The traction of different slippers should be considered when looking for a shoe that is non-slip or can perform outdoors. Look for a rubber sole (for durability) with flat, yet sticky lugs, similar to the outsoles here.
Credit: Amber King
Packability
Another consideration is how easily a slipper can fit into a small backpack or suitcase. We squished several slippers into our checked bags for airline travel during our testing period. We noted how well each slipper could nest into one another, bend, and fold for optimal packing performance.
Lightweight slippers with a flexible sole and a slim profile are the easiest to pack. Slippers like the Glerups Slip-On, Chaco Ramble Puff, and HomeTop Curly Fur Loafer top our list for easily packable slippers.
With a thin profile and an easy to roll up design, the Glerups aren't just breathable, but they are highly packable too.
Credit: Amber King
The Glerups have the thinnest profile with a very flexible leather outsole, fitting easily into small spaces. The Ramble Puff bootie has a similar design with a slightly thicker profile but could almost be rolled up and would still find its shape easily again once you arrive at your destination. The Minnetonka Cally Moccasin folds into a fairly flat profile without crumpling when you unpack your luggage to lounge in your vacation rental.
With a thin sole, the Minnetonka Cally is easy to tuck into a carry-on bag to wear at lounging or hitting the town in style on your next trip.
Credit: Kate Pitts
How to Choose Slippers for Women
What Materials Are Best?
Slippers come in myriad materials, each offering different benefits, insulation, and support. Here are a few popular options:
Fleece: Soft and insulating, it is perfect for snuggling up during chilly evenings, although it can be less breathable than wool fibers.
Wool: Naturally breathable and moisture-wicking; a fantastic choice for both warmth and comfort.
Leather: Quality leather or suede can improve durability and is a good choice if you often wear your slippers outdoors.
Memory Foam: Offers cushiony support for the footbed, adapting to the unique contours of your foot for comfort tailored to your sole.
Rubber Soles: Ideal for outdoor use, providing walking support, durability, and traction.
Fabric Soles: Quiet as a mouse and help keep those in the house asleep if you need a midnight snack. Great choice for inside use because they don't make noise on hard floors and feel softer for snuggling on the sofa.
No need to sweat over stuffy shoes! We evaluated various materials for insulation and breathability to help you find what feels light on your feet.
Credit: Kate Pitts
How Much Support Is Needed?
Are you upping your step count in your slippers? If you walk a lot in your slippers, consider options that provide arch support and cushioning. This is especially important for those with foot issues who want to pamper their feet. Some slippers even come with special insoles for added comfort.
Opt for nonslip soles if you plan to wear your slippers outside or on slippery surfaces. This crucial feature adds safety to your choice so that you can walk from home and into the outdoors with confidence. If you want a slipper for ambling around the climbing crag on a chilly day or hitting a short trail while car camping, consider slippers with thicker soles and traction appropriate for rocky, uneven terrain.
It's hard to do better than the HAFLINGER Gz Classic Grizzly slippers for extra support and extreme comfort.
Credit: Kate Pitts
What Style Will Work Best?
Slippers aren't just about keeping your toes toasty; they can also add a special touch to your personal style. They also function differently, depending on the materials, traction, and opening available for your foot.
Slides: Easy to slip on and off; great for casual lounging. When built with a raised lip and supportive sole, these can double as house slippers or casual shoes.
Moccasins: A versatile choice that can be styled from casual to “relaxed-fancy” in any season and accommodates a variety of materials and aesthetics, from colorful Southwestern motifs to an elevated denim, soft suede, or classic corduroy.
Booties: Perfect for those who love a little extra ankle warmth and support and a highly functional winter or camp-ready slipper design. This is what you will want to grab when you tug off your ski boots.
Open-toe: These options will be the most breathable and likely preferable if you live in a warmer climate or need summer slippers. These are often lightweight, packable, and easy to throw in your carry-on.
Camping: Camp slippers have enough traction to take you from tent to trail. Many are lightweight and packable, and some have special insulation, like down, to make them extra warm for cold nights while car camping.
Our testers have a good habit of slipping into comfort after the outdoor gear has been stored away for the next adventure.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Conclusion
Nothing beats the relief of a favorite pair of slippers when unwinding after a long day of work or play. Our team put the top slippers for women to the test, pushing their limits when it comes to lazy days on the couch, managing chores around the house, working from home, or stepping out of a sleeping bag to brew the morning coffee at camp. We've done the “hard” work to help you find the perfect pair of slippers for keeping your toes warm and your feet cozy all year.
