Best Overall
Lululemon Restfeel Men’s Slide
ProsGreat for recovery after runs or workoutDual-density offers extra support and comfortWater-resistant foam materialMinimal, sleek designConsNot as much as arch support as othersOver the past few summers, we tested more than 30 different slides for men, but Lululemon’s silhouette rose to the top during our trials. It earned the highest ranking for its excellent cushioning, recovery aspect, and water-resistance. I’ve worn this slide a few summers in a row and the design always protects your feet from heated pavements and rough poolside surfaces. Our editors love its solid strap grip, which cushions the top of your foot and prevents slipping.
Not only does this slide feel incredibly comfortable to walk in, it also makes for a great recovery shoe for runners. We found that it provides soothing comfort after you recoup from a half marathon or intense Crossfit session. That’s because it was made with dual-density cushioning, which blends a softer foam for comfort with a firmer foam for support. Plus, it has a clean, minimal design that’s stylish enough for those early coffee runs.
Read More: Best Sandals
Best Recovery Slide
Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3
ProsTargets arch and heel areas for recoveryBest for use after intense runs and post-exercise sorenessIdeal option for wider feetAvailable in over a dozen colorsWhen it comes to giving your feet the TLC they need after a tough run or long day of standing, the Hoka Ora Recovery Slide is up for the job. The cushioned silhouette is made up of a dual-layer construction that provides targeted support where you need it most, such as the arch and heel areas. This helps in maintaining proper alignment and reducing strain on the muscles and joints. Also, the upper strap is designed with four air flow channels to keep your toes cool as a cucumber.
Our fitness editors tested this pair right after running the New York City Marathon and found that it helps ease post-exercise soreness. This slide slips on easily, cradling your feet in comfort with its generously sized midsole. Plus, the contour of the footbed is roomy enough to accommodate guys with wider feet. This style comes in over a dozen colors, but the vibrant orange is our favorite.
MaterialMATRYX® upper, Sugarcane EVA midsole, EVA outsoleAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Slide with Arch Support
OOFOS OOahh Slide Sandal
ProsHelps avoid conditions like plantar fasciitis and general foot painMoisture and odor-resistant materials keep funk at bayHave a marshmallowy feelReduces stress on sore feet, knees and lower back regionConsNot the most stylish slideA slide with arch support can help avoid foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, hammertoe deformity, tendonitis, or just general foot pain, according to Schaeffer. Enter the OOFOS OOahh Slide, which has a proprietary foam that cradles and supports arches, providing relief and comfort for your feet. Based on our extensive testing, we found that this unique material minimizes stress on sore feet, knees and lower back region, and also enhances foot alignment and cushioning.
Our editors tested this slide out by walking and standing in it all day, and its arch support is no joke. It feels like you’re stepping on marshmallows, so you can handle extended periods without discomfort. Yeah, it gives an orthopedic vibe that’s not very stylish, but its chunky, non-slip build makes it an excellent choice for wearing in wet environments like the shower and at the beach.
Plus, this design is crafted from moisture and odor-resistant materials, so you won’t have to worry about sweaty feet or bad smells—just round-the-clock freshness.
Read More: Best Flip-Flops with Arch Support
Best Classic
Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Oiled Leather
ProsClassic silhouettePairs nicely with laid-back vacation fitsSnug footbedRecommended by board-certified foot surgeonConsNot as quick-drying as other picksThis iconic silhouette received our stamp of approval for its perfect blend of comfort, versatility in styling and remarkable durability. I’ve been sporting these since my teen years and paired it with many fits. It has a solid cork footbed and contouring for our arch and toe box that makes it wearable for hours of walking on vacation.
What really sold me on the Arizona model is the snug footbed, constructed by cork and latex. It’s smooth and supportive, shaping to your feet and making you feel like you’re walking on sponges. Aside from providing supreme support, the unique material blend helps to alleviate foot pain and fatigue. Plus, the adjustable straps ensure a secure fit without chafing or irritating your skin, so you can wear them for long strolls in the park.
Looks-wise, this slide timeless. The suede upper isn’t quick-drying like others on the list, but pairs well with a bunch of laid-back vacation fits. In terms of styling, you can wear it with a Hawaiian shirt and shorts or a t-shirt and breezy linen pants.
MaterialUpper material: Oiled leather, Insole: Natural leather, Footbed material: CorkAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Innovative Design
Adidas Adilette 22 Slides
Now 30% Off
Credit: Eli SchmidtProsFuturisitic silhouette with sleek linesLooks great with casual wear and athleisureLightweight ConsNot ideal if you want a minimal slideInspired by space exploration, these Adidas slides have a futuristic style that pushes the fashion envelope forward. We love its sleek lines, bold colors, and contemporary patterns that just look cool, and pair well with all sorts of fits. The lightweight design means they’re easier to walk in than other slides on the list, while their plush cushioning ensures a soft landing for your feet.
When it comes to styling these slides, the key is to embrace their forward-thinking aesthetic, while maintaining an effortless vibe. Our editors have paired them with casual staples like jeans and a T-shirt to add a modern twist, and used them as a statement piece with athleisure wear (think hoodie and joggers). By carefully selecting different textures and colors, you can highlight the futuristic elements of the slides, while ensuring your look remains polished and stylish.
Best Designer Slide
Burberry Furley Check Slide
ProsTimeless, luxury designWorks with casual and dressy fitsConsExpensive, but will never go out of styleThe market is chock full of designer poolside slip-ons, but none are quite as timeless as Burberry’s Furley Check Slide. The brand’s iconic print is instantly recognizable and carries a sense of luxury and prestige. In other words, you’re not just sliding into any ole’ pair; you’re stepping into a legacy. Of course, the price tag is not cheap, but it matches the top-notch comfort that’s delivered in its cushy footbed.
Whether you’re hitting the beach or grabbing dinner at a resort, the Burberry offering keeps you looking effortlessly sharp. Our fashion editors found that the slide goes perfectly with a solid color swim trunks or a monochromatic look. Pro tip: keep your outfit simple (NO PATTERNS!) to avoid clashing and to let the check be the focal point.
MaterialSynthetic upper, lining and soleAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below
Best Cushioned Slide
The North Face Never Stop Cush Slides
ProsPlush cushioned feelTopography texture on footbed prevents slippingFoam padding on strap is super comfyGreat for lifestyle and campingConsDesign may not be for everyoneThese slides from The North Face are hands down the most cushioned pair we’ve tested, living up to the name. The sole feels incredibly soft with its contoured EVA footbed, keeping your dogs pampered wherever you wander. On top of the plush feel, the outsole has a cool and grippy texture to stop any potential slip and falls.
Whether it’s walking, standing, or lounging in them, our testers can’t stop praising its responsive, bouncy cushioning that provides better support by adapting to your feet’s movements. You barely feel each step, and the matte strap leaves enough wiggle room without being too loose.
Best Slide with Double Strap
Reef Oasis Double Up
Now 25% Off
Credit: eli schmidtProsTwo straps ensure secure fitSquishy footbedTwo-tone color combination and rounded toe silhouetteConsNot ideal if you prefer one strapDouble straps means extra support and comfort. That’s why we love the Reef Oasis slides. Unlike Birkenstock’s Arizona model, which also has two straps, this pair has a water-resistant build that can get wet without being ruined. In other words, you can wear it at water parks or during boat rides this summer.
We found that your feet stay locked in place all day and have more arch support than others on the list. The footbed is designed with an extra squishy feel and a deep heel cup for added stability as you step in and out of the water. As for style, the two-tone color combo on the upper and bottom gives this slide a fresh trendy vibe, while adding some serious flair to your swim trunks and shorts.
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Best Budget
Under Armour UA Locker IV Slides
ProsSuper affordableMolds to the shape of your footSolid grippy outsoleExceptional traction and cushioningConsShould only be worn for shower and poolYou don’t have to shell out big bucks to get a solid pair of slides. Enter Under Armour’s offering. The sports-apparel company has you sorted with a budget-friendly option that features a drop-in EVA footbed, which molds to the shape of your foot and offers excellent shock absorption. This reduces the impact on your feet and joints with each step. Also, despite its cushioned footbed, the locker slide is a relatively lightweight construction that moves easily with your during those long walks on the beach.
We found the fit is just as cozy as more expensive options on the list. During our testing, we found that its grippy outsole did a great job at preventing slippage on wet surfaces, whether you’re in the shower or poolside. Sure, this may not be the most stylish on the list, but the ergonomic design earns bonus points for its killer traction and cushioning.
Other Slides We Love
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Best for Lounging
Crocs Unisex-Adult Mellow Recovery Slides
ProsSquishy comfortGreat for recovery after a run or long-haul flightDeep, cupped footbeds ConsMay seem bulky to someCrocs’ Recovery Slide is basically the cloud couch of footwear. As soon as I step into it, my feet sink into this squishy LiteRide foam, a proprietary blend of closed-cell resin and EVA, that feels like it was made for doing absolutely nothing, and loving every second of it. This minimalist slide isn’t just Crocs trying to be stylish; it’s Crocs going full comfort mode.
The wide, pillowy footbed cradles my arches, cups my heels and gives enough life under the ball of my foot to make everything feel supported but still relaxed. I first wore this slide after a red-eye flight from LA to NYC. My feet were swollen and it made the walk from baggage claim to rideshare feel like I was gliding on padded flooring.
One tester even said he forgot he was wearing it halfway through a lazy Sunday. That’s the vibe. The mellow, slightly oversized shape may look a little bulky, but it adds to the whole off-duty energy. If you’re after a slide that’s built purely for max chill, this is the one.
MaterialEthylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)Best Closed-Toe Slide
Salomon RX SLIDE 3.0 Unisex Sportstyle Shoes
ProsCoverage from dirt, debris, and shaped objectsGrips the surfacesPerfect for quick grocery runs and strolls through the parkConsNot ideal if you want your toes outNot every slide requires your feet to be on full display. Salomon’s closed-toe style is designed with a rubber cap toe that actually protects your feet from dirt, debris, and sharp objects, making it ideal for short summer hikes. At first glance, it looks like a recovery shoe. But after testing it across a few unpredictable summer days, we found it does way more than that. I’ve slipped this pair on for quick grocery runs, dog walks, and strolls through the park. The cushy foam rubber midsole is the star of the show: it’s thick, plush, and springy underfoot, making every step feel like you’re walking on a padded track.
One tester described it as “a bounce house for your feet”—ideal for tired legs after a gruesome workout, but just as useful for airport sprints or lazy-day errands. The outsole adds a surprising amount of function, too. Made from Salomon’s treaded rubber, it grips well on slick surfaces like wet pavement or dusty campground floors without leaving scuffs behind indoors. It even handled loose gravel and smooth stone better than most recovery slides, giving testers solid traction where others tend to slip.
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Best for Vacation
APL Men’s Big Logo TechLoom Slide
ProsBreathable mesh strapRaised embossed APL logo offers a sleek lookLightweight yet comfortable on cobblestonesConsNot the most water-resistantInstead of settling for flimsy poolside flip-flops, our Deputy Editor Christian Gollayan wears this slide everywhere on vacation. From beach towns to sightseeing tours, it’s held its shape and support after multiple days of walking 10K+ steps in the heat. No break-in period, excessive sweating or slipping around. The wide strap looks sleek with the raised APL logo, and the breathable mesh keeps your feet cool and dry whether you’re rocking them barefoot or with socks (yep, they look great both ways).
Gollayan called out how the strap hugged his foot just right without any pinching or rubbing. Just a secure, glove-like fit that stayed locked in from cobblestone streets to shorelines. Underfoot, it only gets better. The molded footbed, wrapped in antimicrobial mesh, lightly massages your feet with every step. The midsole? It feels extra cushy like you’re walking on marshmallows. And the outsole, with a waffle-like grid pattern, gave Gollayan just the right amount of traction, especially on slick hotel floors or wet pool decks.
Frequently Asked QuestionsAre Slides Suitable for Outdoors?Slides can be worn outdoors but may not be ideal for rigorous activities. They are best suited for casual wear, poolside lounging, short walks, etc.
Are Slides Good for Walking Long Distances?While slides can be comfortable for short walks, some can lack the support needed for longer distances. For extended walkin, look for slides with arch support and squishy cushioned footbeds like REEF’s Oasis Double Up or OOFOS OOahh Slide.
How Do You Clean Slides?Cleaning methods vary by material. Most slides can be wiped down by a damp cloth. Rubber and EVA slides can be rinsed with water, while leather styles may require special cleaners.
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As the Style and Commerce Editor for Men’s Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.
Christian is the deputy commerce editor at Men’s Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.
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