Tested: The Best Men’s Slides for Taking It Easy

Everyone deserves some freedom in their footlocker. Some flock to moccasins, or loafers – but spring is coming fast, and fur-lined footwear can be far too hot for trotting. After a long day of cramming your feet into rigid and restrictive shoes – be they boots, oxfords, or sneakers – you need to let your feet breathe. Even sandals can pinch the skin between your toes and get in the way of your comfort. No, you need something so soft, so very gentle that it’s almost imperceptible. After wrenching off your work boots, you’ll want to slide into your next pair of shoes. The hard work is done. It’s time to relax, spread your toes, and unwind with our hands-on guide to the best men’s slides.

How We Tested

As we do with all of our guides, we start off by surveying the landscape to see what’s hot at the moment, combining our research with personal experience to narrow down our selection to only the best of the best. This takes hours of online research, talks with colleagues, and our knowledge as an authority in the style space coming together before we’re left with a collection we can stand by.

After getting our hands on the slides we wanted to test, we got to work inspecting each pair off of the foot, taking a close look at the build quality and overall construction. Then, we spent some quality time walking around, paying close attention to how the cushioning felt on the feet, whether the straps were irritating or snug, and how good the traction was. We’re testing slides here, after all, and one of the biggest conveniences of the style is how easy they are to slip on and off. But not all slides are made equal, so we made sure to test the convenience of each pick and what their strengths are. Style is another crucial component (especially now that slides are as popular as they are), and you’ll see each pick paired with the same pants to keep things on an even playing field.

Measurements: I’m 6’2″ and wear a size 10.5/11 shoe, which puts me in sort of an in-between zone that can be hard to fit. Slides also vary quite a bit when it comes to fit, so to be safe, I went with an 11 for each pick in the guide. Also, each of the size ranges listed is for men’s US sizes.

What to Look for

Upper: Casual slides that can take more of a beating will feature synthetic materials and sometimes waterproof capabilities, but more high-end choices favor leather and similar premium materials. The closure is also an important factor to consider as well, as single-piece straps are convenient, but don’t offer adjustments like velcro or buckles do.

Cushioning: More often than not, the cushioning across the board is supposed to be thick and comfortable, with EVA being a popular choice among the aforementioned casual slides. Cushioning is especially important if you plan on rocking your slides outdoors for long stretches of time, as you need enough support to keep your feet from getting sore.

Outsole: A classic rubber sole with good traction is ideal if you plan on rocking your slides outside for the most part, but if you just plan on wearing them inside/post-workout, this isn’t quite as important. Luckily, many modern slides (like Nike’s Calm Slides) come with a solid tread pattern on the outsole for traction, even if they aren’t meant to be worn outside.

Style: Slides are technically any laceless shoes that can easily be taken on and off without ankle support, usually a strap or two, and sometimes using a single piece of foam. Most of the variation in style, similar to the material, will be found in the strap(s) of the slide. More streetwear-leaning picks will have multiple straps (and a busier upper in general), while casual slides will usually have a simple strap.

Breathability: Depending on what the slides are built for, certain designs will have ventilated uppers – usually using perforations/holes (think Crocs) for foam picks. Other silhouettes like the Adilette slides or Birkenstocks will naturally leave some part of your feet exposed and use some variation of the strap.

adidas Adilette Slides

Best Classic Slides: The staple of the Adidas slide collection, the Adilette obviates those uncomfortable little rubber prods, in favor of an untextured but contoured footbed. These classics have been around since 1972. Rock the three stripes poolside, without worry, thanks to the quick-dry lining, or during a chill day at home.

Few slides are as instantly recognizable as the adidas Adilettes, and the classic black and white colorway (in our opinion) is the quintessential look. Starting out as a shower slide in the ‘70s, these slides have been iconic for nearly five decades, and they aren’t going anywhere any time soon. You’re getting a contoured EVA footbed with a polyurethane outsole and a PU-coated synthetic bandage upper with the unmistakable three-stripe pattern. Considering that these were originally designed to be shower shoes, they’re equipped with quick-dry lining and make for really solid water shoes. Style-wise, these are also some of the most versatile slides to pair with and make for a great lowkey addition to a casual fit. 

While I can go on all day about how classic these slides are, I have to be honest about the comfort here. Compared to pretty much every other pick in the guide, these don’t have nearly as much cushioning or arch support and can get pretty uncomfortable (especially without socks) if you wear them for too long. These are best for quick trips around the block, chilling at home, or going to the pool/beach. These are also super easy to slide on and off, which gives them extra points in the convenience department. At the end of the day, most people use these as their beaters, and I think that’s what they’re best for. 

Verdict: These are some of the most iconic slides of all time, and likely what came to your mind when you read the title of this post. While they may not be the most comfortable, they’re oozing with timeless style and make for the perfect beaters.

Crocs Mellow Recovery Slide

Best Indoor Slides: Founded in 2002, Crocs began with the goal of creating foam shoes meant to be worn on boats. These first iterations were built to float in the water and prevent slipping while still keeping your feet comfortable. However, the company had a rocky start, even though the novelty of these unique foam clogs was appreciated by the general population. After years of volatility and struggling to establish an identity, something interesting happened – Crocs became cool. Now building upon their new image, these recovery slides blend classic Crocs support with modern style.

Now that Crocs has established itself as a label to be taken seriously (and we’ve all realized how comfortable they are), the famous foam clog has received a variety of redesigns and collaborative takes. The label’s take on the recovery slide employs the proprietary LiteRide foam for a noticeably softer feel than the Croslite that’s usually used in the brand’s silhouettes (especially with socks off). I’ll expand on the roomy fit more below, but I personally enjoyed the extra room mixed with the incredibly soft footbed, and it made these feel a lot more like slippers (which is great for a pair of slides you’re usually wearing indoors). This extra room is bolstered by the incredibly soft cushioning here (it’s comparable to HOKA’s slides, but not quite as soft – more on that below), and they truly feel like dependable post-workout slides.

I have to say that these just ran way too wide and way too long (I’m a size 10.5, and these are size 11s). I’m assuming this is a design choice on Crocs’ part (it’s advertised as having a roomy fit, and they recommend going a size down), as the slides are billed as recovery slides, and it wasn’t necessarily uncomfortable, but it wound up making my feet look way bigger, and they didn’t feel very secure. As for how easy they were to wear, I found that they’re quite similar to HOKA’s recovery slides (which we’ll get into below), and I had no problem taking them on and off quickly (with and without socks).

Verdict: While these definitely have a Crocs-like look and feel, the use of LiteRide foam results in a much softer footbed compared to the OG clog, and makes for an incredibly comfortable pair of indoor slides (or poolside slides, as they’re waterproof as well).

Nike Calm Slides

Best Summer Slides: Slides and mules are dominating the fashion scene at the moment, with many labels putting a unique twist on these relaxed silhouettes, and combining the world of athleisure with city-friendly design. At the beginning of last summer, Nike dropped the Calm Slide, which became a seasonal hit, because it’s the perfect poolside companion and a minimal, casual slide.

These dropped very recently, just last summer, and quickly became such a success that Nike followed them up shortly after with the Calm Mules. But this is a slide guide, so we’re here testing out the Calm Slides, a pair of soft slides made with a single piece of foam on top of a rubber outsole. With socks on, these felt a lot more comfortable than they looked, and the footbed gave me enough cushioning while walking around (enough to feel confident rocking them around town). Without socks, you can definitely feel the lined texture on the footbed, but this is to keep you steady if you choose to wear them around water and get them wet. As for the functionality of these slides, they’re very similar to Crocs’ slides and HOKA’s recovery slides as far as cushioning goes, but have a more streetwear-friendly look that wouldn’t look out of place in public. They’re finished with debossed Nike swooshes on the side, with a sort of toothy trim peaking up from the outsole, and as far as looks go, these were among one of my favorites.

As a size 10.5/11 shoe size, I went with the 11s here to be safe, and I found that even those were still a little too small. I definitely recommend going at least a half size up, and maybe even a full size if your feet run wide (Nike’s silhouettes tend to run a little narrow). Putting these on and taking them off is quite easy as well (even with the tighter fit).

Verdict: I was surprised at how versatile these slides were, providing support while still having a city-friendly look that easily pairs with a variety of outfits. They’re also some of the most stylish foam slides you can get, and avoid that sort of plastic-y look that others can suffer from.

HOKA ORA Recovery 3 Slides

Best Recovery Slides: Yes, HOKA is mainly known for its running shoes, but that means the HOKA ORA Recovery 3 Slides have some activewear flair. The brand has improved upon its previous slides, adding better airflow and dual-layer construction. These slides are perfect for a post-run cooldown, but if you find yourself needing some slides that can keep up with a brisk pace, then these are worth a look.

It should come as no surprise that HOKA’s slides are some of the comfiest you can get, as the label has been building an untouchable reputation for making high-quality footwear that’s more supportive than just about anything else out there. The third iteration of the label’s recovery slides has an injection molded EVA midsole and outsole, with vertical slits on the top for air control/breathability. On top of that, they have a wide base and the label’s Active Foot Frame for a stable feel that most other slides don’t really have, along with a high footbed with the most cushioning I’ve ever felt in a slide (seriously, these feel incredible). While these are advertised as recovery slides (and do a good job of aiding in post-workout/run recovery), the futuristic look makes them more city-friendly (which I think the Crocs Recovery Slides were going for, but missed the mark a bit). The Meta-Rocker geometry here also helps quite a bit with making strides feel more natural (almost like a pair of running shoes) and gives these an edge/support that not a lot of other slides have.

Wearing these barefoot, I found that you kind of get that squeaking sound, and it got a little hot on the soles of my feet. Besides that, though, wearing these without socks was incredibly comfortable, and it made me appreciate the deeper heel cup and arch support a lot more. The fit here was absolutely perfect for me, though, and made taking them off and putting them on a breeze.

Verdict: HOKA’s legendary support and cushioning meet the slide silhouette here, and it makes for the perfect post-workout pick. These also have the most cushioning (by far) compared to the rest of the picks in the guide, which is great if you need extra support.

Chaco Lowdown Slide

Best Outdoor Slides: Although slides are usually meant for comfort, that doesn’t mean certain picks will be uncomfortable in other conditions. The Chaco Lowdown Slide is one such example, providing great arch support in a lightweight form. They’re just as useful for a day working from home or around a campfire, with a durable and soft EVA outsole.

If you’ve spent any time with rock climbers, hikers, or just outdoor enthusiasts in general, you’ve probably seen them rocking a pair of Chacos. They’re pretty simple when you break them down, equipped with an adjustable polyester jacquard webbing with a buckle and synthetic trims up top, the label’s proprietary LUVSEAT footbed, and a ChacoGrip rubber compound outsole. While these are technically sandals (as a lot of other slides could be considered, like the Adilettes, for example), they have the same easy-wearing features that your average slide has, and the footbed is surprisingly comfortable (especially with shoes off). With socks on, the fit can be a little tight, and it doesn’t look quite right compared to the sockless look. Speaking of the style, these aren’t quite as versatile as something like the HOKA recovery slides, but that’s fine because these are purpose-built for tackling the outdoors, and clearly favor function over style. 

Much like the Adilette slides, these are designed to handle water with ease, and Chacos especially have a more stripped-back/rugged design that’s meant for the outdoors. That means you’re not getting the same cushioning you would from picks like HOKA’s Recovery Slides or even the Crocs slides. Also, these are definitely best worn without socks (from both a functional and style perspective).

Verdict: This silhouette has such a unique look, and while that may make it a bit harder to style with (especially with socks), they’re tried and true outdoor sandals that will be with you for years.

Birkenstock Kyoto

Best Slides Overall: While a comfy slide is great for many uses, having some sandal features can make the shoes more versatile. The Birkenstock Kyoto Olive shoes are a great middle ground between the two, featuring the brand’s signature cork footbed, and a supportive suede upper. So these can be easily taken on and off like a slide, but have no problem spending the day on your feet without being uncomfortable.

Although the Boston is certainly the most popular Birkenstock silhouette at the moment, many of their other offerings are just as stylish and very much slept on. Take the Kyotos, for example – you’re getting the same long-lasting and supportive cork footbed that Birkenstock is known for, with a suede and nubuck leather upper. What sets this particular silhouette, however, is that the two leather flaps overlap and use a velcro strap for an adjustable fit. This results in a more streetwear-friendly look (not too different from Suicoke’s signature look, which we’ll get into below), and makes for easier adjustments, especially compared to the buckles on the OG Arizona silhouette. Other than the very stylish look here, Birkenstock’s cork footbed still feels incredible (even when not fully broken in), and it’s finished with EVA sole. The use of suede also makes the upper feel a lot softer on the feet, which is especially nice when wearing barefoot. 

As is the case with every other pair of Birkys, it takes some time for the cork footbed to mold to your feet, and this is usually best to do while barefoot so the contour is more accurate. But the footbed still feels super comfortable even before breaking in, and it doesn’t take too long for them to fit your feet. While these aren’t quite as easy to take on and off compared to classic slides, they’re still super convenient and easy to wear, and adjustments are super simple with the velcro strap.

Verdict: Birkenstocks are not only some of the most comfortable and durable sandals/slides you can get, but offer a modern look that’s very much in style at the moment. These also offer a style that’s similar to the Bostons but different enough to maintain its own unique look.

Suicoke KAW-CAB

Best City Slides: While nothing is stopping you from rocking some slides around town a little longer than your trip to the store, you may want something a little more fashionable if that’s the case. SUICOKE’s KAW-CAB Webbing Trimmed Shell Sandals are perfect for such occasions while also featuring a durable shell and velcro straps. Additionally, the EVA footbed has antibacterial properties, so prolonged wear isn’t an issue.

The Japanese brand Suicoke really pioneered this style of slide, and worked closely with the Italian label Vibram to create a custom footbed that’s featured in each pair of slides from the brand. The KAW-CABs are perhaps the most iconic silhouette from the label and continue to influence the world of streetwear (spawning quite a few copycats as well). They feature that unmistakable nylon upper with two velcro straps, a custom Suicoke EVA antibacterial footbed, and a Suicoke original sole. As for the cushioning, the footbed feels like a nice middle ground with just enough give to feel supportive and honestly feels a lot like Birkenstock’s cork footbed. With socks off, you can feel more of the raised details under the foot and heel, and the nylon upper is surprisingly soft. Personally, these are my favorite slides in the guide and have such a futuristic look that’s hard to deny. 

There’s a lot of debate about socks or no socks when it comes to slides, but it’s especially heated when it comes to this style of slide. Personally, I think, both looks and feel-wise, that socks are the way to go here. Don’t let the look here fool you, as these are incredibly easy to wear and adjust, and I had no problem putting them on and taking them off.

Verdict: The air of mystique around Suicoke and their apparel is a big part of what makes them such a legend in the streetwear scene, and this silhouette, in particular, has been a huge influence in the fashion world.

Slides Comparison chart

WHAT MAKES IT A SLIDE?

Well, simply put, the name gives you everything you need to know. Slides are shoes you can slide your foot easily in and out of, making them ideal for quick trips or lazy days. Although we can trace slide-adjacent shoes back to ancient civilizations, it was German brands adidas and Birkenstock that really launched the shoe’s popularity in the West. Generally speaking, since slides are designed for easily accessible comfort and mobility, they’re not meant for more active situations or prolonged wear. Sandals, on the other hand, will usually have more support with thicker soles and more straps. Some labels may call their slides sandals and vice versa, so look out for the defining slide features to make an assessment.

Barefoot or Socks?

There’s a lot of debate surrounding whether or not you should rock slides with or without socks, and honestly, it comes down to the silhouette. For picks like Suicoke’s KAW-CAB (and streetwear-leaning picks overall), socks generally look better than no socks and cut down on potential wear and tear. But slides like the Adilettes are built to be waterproof and have a design that lends itself to bare feet.

Honorable Mentions

Few patterns are as recognizable as the Vans checkerboard, and you’re getting that with the Vans Checkerboard La Costa Slide-On Sandal. You get synthetic nubuck straps with the iconic pattern and a waffle pattern on the outsole, just like the OGs.

While we already included a pair of Birkys in the guide, the Birkenstock Arizona Essentials silhouette is a great choice if you want a pair of Birkenstocks for half the normal asking price. While you aren’t getting the classic support of the cork footbed, the EVA they use is still comfortable, and makes these waterproof.

If you want a nice blend of streetwear with that classic slide style, Saturdays NYC’s Banya Slide is the perfect fit. You’re getting a ballistic nylon strap with a suede trim and a custom-molded pebbled rubber footbed.

Gucci Slides are some of the most iconic slides of all time – you’ve seen your favorite celebrities and rappers rocking them, and they’re the ultimate symbol of luxury. But there’s no denying that $400 is a pretty steep asking price for a pair of slides, so we’re shouting them out here instead of including them in the guide.

The California from Fear of God is a super stylish slide designed in our hometown of Los Angeles and handmade in Italy. Boasting an incredibly minimalist design, it boasts a super lightweight construction that’s soft, flexible, and durable.

Tested: The Best White Tees for Men

Now that you’ve got some slides, you’re going to need a shirt that’s also easy to wear. That’s why our best white t-shirt guide is worth a look.