Ahhh, comfy slippers, the best part of coming home. Nothing truly says, “It’s time to kick back and relax,” quite like kicking off your sneakers and swapping them for a pair of home slippers—that, along with taking your bra off at the end of a long day and settling into the couch for an evening of binge-watching. These simple pleasures are something we all can agree on.
Now, here’s where the debate starts: Slippers with socks? Or without?
There are two types of people in the world: those who keep their bed socks on during the transition from outdoor to indoor shoes, and those who ditch them in between, sinking their toes into the pure ecstasy of soft slippers.
But this age-old controversy may hinge on more than just a matter of personal preference. Those who feel the need to keep their socks on with their slippers may be wearing house shoes that underdeliver in one way or another.
With Vionic’s slippers, crew socks are a mere redundancy—totally unnecessary for achieving peak comfort and performance. But unfortunately, we can’t say the same about every type of slipper you might encounter.
If you want to get the most out of your relaxing time, consider the benefits of sockless slipper-wearing, how to find slippers that allow for this level of freedom, and the most important slipper categories to pay attention to.
So, slip into something a little more comfortable, and let’s dive in!
Free the Feet: Why It’s a Good Idea to Give Your Feet a Break
First things first: do you wear socks with slippers? It’s okay if the answer is yes. You don’t have to switch things up if you don’t want to, but it’s important to recognize the benefits you may be missing out on if your toes are always trapped inside your socks.
Here’s a look at why it’s a good idea to give your feet a break from socks:
Let your feet breathe
If your feet are stuck in socks and shoes all day, they’re practically screaming for air by the time you come home. You know that satisfaction you get from swapping a tight-fitting pair of pants for sweatpants you can practically swim in?
Your feet need that same kind of liberation, too—even podiatrists agree! Aside from the odor, wearing socks all day could cause athlete’s foot or perhaps infection.1
Improve your circulation
Are your socks too tight? Depending on the type you wear every day, they could be causing poor circulation by restricting the arteries that allow for proper blood flow to your feet.
This is definitely something to avoid. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to do so. Start by ditching the socks when you’re hanging out at home, and consider purchasing better-fitting pairs to wear for the rest of the day.
Prevent odor transfer
So, you’ve been out and about all day, running to catch the bus, climbing flights of stairs, and speed walking to pick up takeout for lunch. Whatever your daily activities are, your socks have likely accumulated a fair amount of sweat and grime.
The smell alone is unpleasant enough, but transferring the odors to your slippers only makes things worse. If you take your socks off, give your feet a quick soak and pat down to dry before stepping—barefoot—into your slippers, you leave the smelly scents behind.
Get the full slipper experience
Never underestimate the healing powers of slippers. It’s basically like having two supportive, squishy clouds under your feet. This wonderful invention should be enjoyed to the fullest extent.
If you can’t relate, try on a plush pair of terry cloth slippers with biomechanically contoured arch support (sock-free). You’ll know exactly what we mean—and might never wear socks with slippers again.
The benefits are convincing, but are there any drawbacks of wearing slippers without socks? The potential pitfalls of barefoot slippers only arise if you’re wearing poorly constructed house shoes that weren’t designed to support this kind of lifestyle. In those instances, you might have sweaty feet and subsequently smelly slippers.
With Vionic’s slippers, however, that won’t be a problem.
What to Look For When Buying Slippers
If you’re still steadfastly supporting Team Socks in this debate, you might need to rethink the kinds of slippers you’ve been buying. There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to choosing the right ones for you. So, to be sure you’re getting the perfect blend of style, comfort, warmth, and foot support, tune in closely to the following tips.
If you’re in the market for a new pair of slippers, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Proper fit
It’s helpful to remember that sizes will vary depending on the brand you opt for, but as a general rule of thumb, your slipper size will often correlate with your shoe size. Some prefer a larger fit, but if your feet have too much wiggle room, you risk losing support.
Take special care when purchasing snug-fitting slippers since they may cause unwanted friction and blisters on your heels—only exacerbated by a pair of thick socks.
Top-notch materials
Terrycloth, suede, leather, cotton—these are just a few materials commonly used to make slippers. Sinking your bare feet into soft, plush fabrics is one of life’s greatest pleasures, though some people prefer slippers with more structure, like leather.
Odor-resistant technology
Slippers without socks are an excellent choice but with an important caveat: the materials used must be carefully designed to avoid the smelly situation that can result from sweaty feet. Vionic’s slippers are treated with antibacterial, odor-resistant Ecofresh, so you can safely enjoy sock-free comfort.
Durable sole construction
If your home is lined with hardwood, tile, or marble floors from corner to corner, the outsole really matters. Hard floors can be a common cause of pain in your feet, legs, and even lower back.
Podiatrist Steve Rosenberg explains that the rigidity of some surfaces increases the need for shoes with arch support and outsole stability, such as Vionic’s sturdy slippers.2
Full-foot support
Support is a necessity across the board, regardless of what type of flooring you spend most of your time on. Stable, well-cushioned feet are happy feet.
Vionic slippers feature EVA midsoles which help absorb shock while still maintaining the soft comfort of a slipper. Additionally, you’ll find that a well-built slipper will last you much longer than flimsy ones that lose all their cushioning in a few week’s time.
Stylish designs
Yes, slippers can be stylish footwear, too—even if you and your dog are the only ones who see them. Whether you prefer simple, cozy, and elegant, or something more robust with bright colors and unique patterns, there’s bound to be a pair out there that fuels your fashion fire.
Be careful if you find your perfect style match—you might just end up living in them!
Categories of Slippers You Should Know
The features of a good slipper don’t change. However, the shape can vary greatly, from classic slip-ons to breathable toe post slippers.
These common slipper categories are all well-suited to sockless comfort—and in some cases, they quite literally require it:
Moccasin slippers
This closed-heel option could double as a street shoe for quick errands or a stroll to the coffee shop. Because of its full-foot coverage, it can quickly lead to overheating toes and sweaty soles if you leave your ankle socks on.
Clog slippers
This is another semi-closed-heel slipper that offers a bit more breathability out of the back.
Toe post slippers
Behold: the flip flop version of loungewear! These are an excellent option for warmer climates and anyone who loves the breathability of an open-toed shoe. Thanks to the toe post, a cozy sock isn’t even a viable option.
Classic slip-on slippers
Like a hug from an old friend, these fan favorites are usually open in the back and closed around the toe. Their plush-lined interiors are perfect for slipping your bare feet into as long as that cozy fabric is resistant to sweat and smells.
Cross-strap sandal slippers
If flip flops aren’t your thing, but breathability is, Vionic’s sandal-like slippers will be your dream come true. Akin to Nike slides or Birkenstocks, these plush-lined comfy slippers have adjustable straps across the arch that provide a snug fit, a lot of freedom for your feet, and a cozy base.
Skip the Socks and Shop Vionic Slippers
If you’re a true connoisseur of coziness, you know that slippers can make or break the entire lounging experience. If you’re looking for a pair that’s wonderfully complete all on its own—without the need for a slipper sock—take a browse through Vionic’s collection.
You’ll be immediately drawn to the plush materials and stylish designs, but over time, you’ll be most impressed by the podiatrist-designed foot and arch support. Vionic offers an array of slippers for every type of lounger. From moccasins to toe post slippers, we’ve got what you need to relax in and around your home.
And for moms on the move and young work-from-home professionals, you’ll want to get your hands on the best house slippers for women—available only from Vionic. Start shopping today!
Sources:
- Colleen Travers. “14 Ways Podiatrists Say You’re Killing Your Feet”. The Healthy. . Apr. 29, 2021, https://www.thehealthy.com/foot-care/ways-podiatrists-say-youre-killing-your-feet/
- Steve Rosenberg. “When Your Feet Hurt, Everything Hurts. Ouch!”. HuffPost. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/when-your-feet-hurt-every
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