Buzz
If you're in search of an easy-to-wear shoe for around the house or quick errands, you might think comfort and support are too much to ask for. However, Dr. Howard E. Friedman, a podiatrist certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, assures that many slides provide real arch support.
Available at Zappos, Amazon, and Nordstrom. If you suffer from chronic foot pain or appreciate the convenience of a laceless shoe, these slides are worth considering. Dr. Friedman previously shared, 'For someone recovering from plantar fasciitis, I instruct my patients to wear supportive footwear all day long, starting from when their foot first hits the ground.' Slides with arch support are particularly helpful for those stepping out of bed.
To assist in finding the best slides for you, we consulted Dr. Friedman and Dr. Perkins, reviewed our previous reports, and conducted additional research on the top-rated arch-supporting slides favored by customers.
Unless stated otherwise, all sizes in this post refer to women's sizes.
1. Chaco Chillo slide
The Chaco Chillo slide has earned a strong following among reviewers, many of whom praise the brand's signature adjustable 'Z'-strap and the remarkably lightweight EVA base that can float on water, all while delivering excellent support to the foot's contours. 'I have severe plantar fasciitis,' said Kari, a Chaco reviewer. 'I bought these for wearing inside the house. The arch support is a game-changer.' Another reviewer, Looloo, mentioned, 'These help me avoid hip and foot pain, with great support.' JG wrote, 'Best sandals ever, fixed my plantar fasciitis and heel spur pain. Love them!' As with other Chaco styles, these slides come in an array of colors, from bold neons to classic neutrals, and are available in women's sizes 5-12 and men's sizes 7-15. You can find them on Amazon starting at $20.76+ for women's sizes and $29.74+ for men's sizes.
2. Oofos Ooahh slide sandal
If you're a fan of popular options like Adidas slides or similarly minimal footwear, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, a podiatrist with U.S. Foot and Ankle Specialists, recommends these biomechanically-engineered slides from Oofos. Dr. Friedman also endorses them, and they've received approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association. Their shock-absorbing padding offers relief for the feet, knees, and even the back. The thick sole supports your arches, promoting natural foot movement and reducing stress throughout the body. Plus, the materials are moisture- and odor-resistant.
3. Hoka Ora 3 recovery slide
If you're a fan of Hoka running shoes, you'll love their ultra-supportive recovery slide, which maintains a lightweight feel while aiding in injury recovery. The design allows for a smooth step transition, easing pressure on your heels and toes. The contoured footbed feels like a cushion, making it ideal for walking or running. According to Dr. Parthasarathy, it's a solid alternative to Adidas slides. You can get them from Nordstrom for $60, available in women's sizes 5-16, men's sizes 3-14, and six color options.
4. A pair of KuaiLu recovery slides
Another supportive EVA slide, the KuaiLu recovery slides come with a U-shaped cup heel that wraps around your heel for added stability and support. The insole is designed to relax your foot, alleviating pain and pressure on your arches while promoting better posture as you walk and stand. Amazon customer Surron244 shares, 'These are my favorite shoes in the world. I wear them every day without fail. I just bought my second pair. They provide fantastic support for my arches. I'll be a lifetime customer.'
5. A pair of lightweight Z-strap slides
6. A classic pair of Crocs
Crocs, whether you love them or not, come highly recommended by Dr. Chanel J. Perkins, a board-certified podiatrist in Texas. Dr. Howard E. Friedman, a podiatrist certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, also endorses them, stating that they may offer better arch support than other slide or flip-flop options. They are incredibly lightweight, easy to clean, and come in an array of colors.
7. Vionic Rejuvenate recovery sandal
Vionic is another podiatrist favorite, with the Rejuvenate recovery sandals recommended by Dr. Perkins. Featuring a molded EVA footbed with cushioning that absorbs impact, these sandals offer stability and full underfoot contact to alleviate pressure.
8. Birkenstock Arizona sandals
Both Dr. Friedman and Dr. Parthasarathy recommend Birkenstocks, with Dr. Parthasarathy especially endorsing the iconic Arizona adjustable two-strap sandal. These sandals come with a soft contoured footbed made from cork and durable EVA outsoles to offer a perfect balance of support and comfort.
9. Birkenstock Arizona EVA
If you're seeking a lighter, waterproof, and affordable alternative without compromising comfort or brand quality, Birkenstock offers a highly-rated EVA version of their Arizona slide. With adjustable straps and a contoured footbed, these sandals are a favorite among customers. Zappos customer Andria says, 'Cute, animal-friendly, and comfortable—even for someone like me with arthritis and having had several foot surgeries,' while another customer notes, 'Perfect for keeping by the back door to step outside without worrying about wet grass.'
10. Cushionaire three-strap slide
