What’s not to love about the slide? There are all sorts of reasons to love this sandal type: For one thing, most slide sandals are comfortable enough to wear right out of the box (sometimes, with no breaking-in period required). They’re also usually made of soft, supple leather or other easy-to-use material, and they can be worn so many ways and with so many different outfits. In other words, they’re versatile. And while they look great peeking out from under a short summer dress when you’re headed to happy hour or dinner in the city, they also look just as perfect when you’re wearing them outside of work hours (say, for instance, on a trip to the beach with your family or friends!)
What are Slide Sandals?
Slide sandals are a popular summer style of sandals. They are comfort-focused, with simple designs that make them easy to wear on the go.
You will see slide sandals styled in a variety of ways, but they all have one thing in common, their open-toe and backless design. You will generally find them with either one strap or two straps that run across the shoe, with either a solid or adjustable Velcro or buckle closure.
You may also hear them referred to as “sliders” because you slide your feet in and out of them, hence the name “slides.” There are no toe loops or fasteners and no irritating thongs between your toes like you would find on flip-flops. Slide sandals generally offer a wider and more roomy fit than most other sandal designs.
History of Slide Sandals
The slide sandal can be traced back to Ancient Rome and Ancient Egypt, and Greece, where they were first brought in. However, they became popular in the United States in the 19060’s when more vibrant designs, colors, and cheery motifs were added. Across the world, the brand Birkenstock from Germany created one of the first fitness slides with contoured cork footbeds and buckled closure leather straps. Another German company, Adidas, also created the famous Adilette pool slide.
The beach slide really made its mark on fashion history in the mid-1990’s when brands like Fubu, Tommy Hilfiger and Polo Ralph Lauren brought high-end versions of these shoes for men and women.
Today you can find slides for every occasion and budget. You can find them at stores like Payless, Nordstrom Rack or shop designer brands like Gucci and Prada. There are even slides that have Swarovski crystals embedded on them.
Uses of Slide Sandals
Slides are mostly casual footwear. They’re not really something you’ll wear with a suit, but they do have some versatile designs that can be worn with more formal attire. Slides are considered to be among the most comfortable shoes and are great for people who spend long hours on their feet. They’re also a good choice for those seeking shoes for swollen feet
Most slides have sporty and athletic styles, which makes them a perfect fit for the beach and pool, or for lounging at home. They’re also ideal for wearing after playing sports and working out, because they allow easy access to your feet.
Slides have grown in popularity in recent years, so while they still aren’t as common as sandals or sneakers, you can find plenty of fashionable options.
Why Choose Comfortable Slide Sandals
The slide sandal is usually a more comfortable style of sandal. This is because they have a single strap and open heel, so the fit is not as snug as other styles of sandals.
Not all styles and models of slide sandals are very comfortable, and because this is a leisurewear sandal, you want it to be comfortable.
Features such as a cushioned and contoured footbed that provides comfortable support and shock absorbency system, and smooth and comfortable straps, along with a roomy fit, all make for a very comfortable slide sandal.
Most well-known brand quality slides sandals offer many comfort features in their slides.
You can use your slide sandal as a more comfortable alternative to slippers in summer or just casual wear at home. Your feet still need good cushioning and support, even from a sandal.
Features of a Good Comfortable Slide Sandal
The slides can be made of EVA, neoprene, rubber, foam, leather, or synthetic materials.
The slides may have velcro straps or buckles. Some are slip-on while others will have a heel strap. There are also some models that have a backless design.
The uppers can be lined in soft fabric that is breathable.
There should be some form of cushioning for shock absorption and comfort.
The soles should provide traction to prevent slipping.
Slides with more contoured footbeds will provide more support for your arches and heels. The footbeds should also be breathable.
There should be plenty of colors and sizes available with narrow and wide width options to choose from.
Reviews: The Best Comfortable Slides
Slide Sandals for Comfort
Who says sandals can’t be both comfortable, and look good? With the Dr. Comfort Kelly and Connor sandals, you get both, with sandals that provide casual style with orthotic support for a variety of foot conditions. The sandals have adjustable leather uppers for the perfect fit, a biomechanical supportive footbed design, with dual-density foam cushioning for comfort and support, an integrated post and shank in the sole structure for stability, as well as an anti-microbial top cloth made to reduce friction. These are great looking sandals that will help you look your best while providing maximum comfort for your feet.
Sandals for Plantar Fasciitis
Birkenstock’s Arizonia sandals are made with soft leather uppers and two buckle closures to ensure the perfect fit. The suede lined footbed has a contoured cork design that provides arch support, and latex foam cushions the feet as you walk. Birkenstock is known for making some of the most comfortable sandals in Germany, and this Arizona sandal is sure to keep you happy on your feet all summer long.
Recovery Slide Sandal
Taking a stroll in your OOFOS slide sandal is the perfect way to recover from a workout, injury or foot operation. That’s why this slide style is our most popular. You get all the arch and heel support you need plus tons of cushioning in a style that looks so good you’ll want to wear it everywhere. Foot doctors recommend the rocker sole design that takes the pressure off your feet and joints, and the OHOOFOAM material that molds to your unique foot shape for personalized relief from day one.
Slide Sandals for Flat Feet
The Vionic Kiwi is a very comfortable, orthopedic-style sandal that offers adjustable closures with soft suede uppers and a padded lining. It features a cushioned footbed lined in soft fabric that massages the feet as you walk. The outsole is a durable TPR rubber one that helps with stability and traction. This model comes in a variety of colors and can be purchased in several different widths.
