We tested over 50 pairs of sandals to find the best slides.

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Travel + Leisure

As a travel writer and mom who’s constantly on the move—navigating airports, exploring new cities (and, yes, squeezing in pool time between assignments), I rely on shoes that are equal parts comfortable, stylish, and easy to pack. Slides are a staple in my travel wardrobe because they’re so versatile: I’ve worn them to the beach, to dinner, through customs, and even on walking tours when I needed something more supportive than flip-flops but less fussy than sandals with straps.

This guide is the result of our team’s extensive hands-on testing. At Travel + Leisure, we evaluated more than 50 pairs of slides in real-world scenarios—from sandy beaches to hardwood floors, concrete sidewalks, and slippery hotel pool decks. We looked closely at fit, comfort, support, quality, and durability, and I personally wore some of these slides everywhere from work events and errands in Los Angeles to a resort vacation in Mexico.

If you want a slide that checks every box, our best overall pick is the Reef Cushion Vera Cruz, which stands out for its all-day wearability, supportive sole, and sleek, travel-ready design. Read on for more of our top-tested picks.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: SALE Reef Cushion Vera Cruz Slide at Amazon $70 $49 Jump to Review Best Splurge: Beek Slide Sandal at Nordstrom $260 Jump to Review Best Traction: Adidas Adilette Boost Slides at Amazon $48 Jump to Review Best Clog: Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog at Backcountry $160 Jump to Review Best Arch Support: Chaco Lowdown Slide at Amazon Jump to Review Most Versatile: Crocs Miami Toe Loop at Amazon $40 Jump to Review Best Value: SALE Cushionaire Women’s Lane Cork Footbed Sandal at Amazon $50 $35 Jump to Review Most Packable: Message Mullen Slide at Wearmessage.com Jump to Review Best Sporty: Nike Offcourt Adjust Women’s Slides at Famousfootwear.com Jump to Review Best Sustainable: SALE Rothy’s The Summer Sandal at Nordstrom $139 $99 Jump to Review

Best Overall

Reef Cushion Vera Cruz Slide

Credit: Reef $70 $49 at Amazon $70 at Nordstrom $70 at Backcountry Why We Love It

• These great overall slides are instantly comfortable with no break-in period, supportive with a secure fit, and versatile in styling for everyday wear.

What to Consider

• The floral insole design may not appeal to minimalists or those who prefer a cleaner look.

Some slides need time to soften up, break in, or mold to your feet—but not these. From the very first step, our tester described them as feeling pre-broken in, with no hot spots, blisters, or pinching. The upper leather is soft and pliable, and the contoured sole delivers a just-right balance of support and cushion. Even better, they stay securely on your feet without feeling tight, solving any potential slipping-off issues. The sole is approximately 1.25 inches thick, with a lightweight but sturdy feel and subtle anatomic contouring around the arch that keeps every step stable and supported. 

Our tester wore these shoes everywhere—from work to the ballpark to dog walks and around the kitchen—and reported solid traction on all surfaces, including tile and carpet. The price feels well-matched to the quality and comfort, and the neutral color makes them a versatile staple. The only downside: the floral “footprint” printed on the insole felt unnecessary to the otherwise minimalist design. Still, these slides quickly became a favorite—and inspired our plans to order a second pair in another color.

The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Rubber and plastic

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Best Splurge

Beek Slide Sandal

Credit: Beek $260 at Nordstrom View on Beekshop.com Why We Love It

• These elevated slides are gorgeous and versatile with soft, high-quality leather, zero break-in time, and supportive soles for all-day comfort.

What to Consider

• The real leather stretches significantly with wear, so sizing down is smart if you plan to wear them often.

These slides felt amazing right out of the box—buttery-soft leather, a true-to-size fit, and zero break-in period. I even wore them on a resort vacation in Mexico after slipping in the spa and bruising my foot, when they were the only shoes I could comfortably wear to dinner while still looking polished. The padded leather strap feels incredibly soft against the top of my foot—there’s no hardware to dig in or chafe—and the thick sole offers plenty of support. I’ve worn them to the pool, to casual lunches, to nicer dinners, and even for sightseeing. That said, I’ve learned a lesson: the real leather upper has stretched quite a bit over the past three months of regular wear, and now they feel oversized to the point where my feet slip through. I love them enough that I'll actually take them to a shoemaker to be sized down, and the quality is worth investing in. If I could do it again, I’d order a half size down to accommodate the stretch. They’re definitely an investment, but the comfort, versatility, and quality offer solid value.

The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Leather and rubber

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Best Traction

Adidas Adilette Boost Slides

Credit: Amazon $48 $43 at Amazon $35 $30 at Zappos View on Dicks Sporting Goods Why We Love It

• These slides are supremely comfortable, delivering sneaker-like support and traction in a secure, stylish design.

What to Consider

• The top strap applies a bit of pressure, and while it's not uncomfortable per se, it may be noticeable for those highly sensitive to fit. 

These slides are a standout for everyday comfort and performance, and may just be the best pair our tester has ever worn. With a true-to-size fit and sneaker-like cushioning (made from the same material as Adidas Boost soles), they deliver all-day support without rubbing, slipping, or needing a break-in period. The thick sole offers shock absorption and keeps you from feeling the ground beneath, while the grip inside the footbed keeps feet locked in place, even during quick errands, rainy walks, or busy days around Manhattan. The secure fit and surprisingly sneaker-level traction make them more stable than many other slides on the market, and after three weeks of daily wear, they showed no visible signs of wear and tear. Versatile enough to wear after workouts, at the beach, or even post-shower at the gym, these slides are well worth their full price—and an absolute steal when on sale.

The Details: Sizes 5-19 | Synthetic and textile

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Best Clog

Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog

Credit: Nordstrom $160 at Backcountry $165 at Zappos View on L.L. Bean Why We Love It

• These shoes are incredibly supportive, well-made, and require minimal break-in time.

What to Consider

• The suede lining can cause painful chafing on hot, humid days when worn without socks.

For first-time Birkenstock wearers, this shoe is a revelation in comfort and support. Our tester, a sneaker devotee who usually avoids slides, was impressed by how secure and stable these felt—no slipping or sliding even during long walks. The soft footbed, a cushier version of the brand’s original sole, required virtually no break-in time and offered standout arch and toe support, making them feel more comfortable with each wear. While the suede interior can cause painful chafing in humid, sock-less conditions (as one sweaty walk to yoga proved), that’s more of a suede-meets-sweat issue than a flaw in the design. The materials and construction—from cork soles to durable hardware—live up to the Birkenstock hype, and the style is ideal for everyday casual use. The price point makes them a splurge, but one that feels justified for anyone prioritizing foot health and lasting comfort.

The Details: Sizes 4-4.5 and 12-12.5 (narrow or regular) | Suede, cork, EVA

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Best Arch Support

Chaco Lowdown Slide

Credit: Amazon View on Amazon View on Chacos.com Why We Love It

• These slides are lightweight, supportive, quick-drying, and comfortable enough for sensitive feet, with excellent traction and no break-in period required.

What to Consider

• They can be noisy when walking, and the lack of a back strap limits their use for hiking or more active wear. 

These sporty, supportive slides live up to the Chaco name, offering impressive comfort and durability—even for wearers with plantar fasciitis. The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit, though pulling it tight may leave some extra material hanging. Still, once secured, the sandals stay firmly in place with zero slippage, making them ideal for walking around town, lounging by the lake, or casual office days. The footbed features solid arch support and requires no break-in time, and the lightweight, quick-drying construction makes them a go-to for warm-weather wear and water activities. The traction is excellent even in rainy conditions, and after extended testing, they showed little to no wear. While they’re not built for hiking or running due to the lack of a back strap, they’re a strong choice for anyone who wants low-profile sandals that don’t aggravate sensitive feet. Just note: they’re a little noisy on hard surfaces and carpet.

The Details: Sizes 5-12 | Polyester webbing, proprietary Luvseat footbed, rubber compound

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Most Versatile

Crocs Miami Toe Loop

Credit: Crocs $40 $36 at Amazon $40 at Nordstrom $40 at Zappos Why We Love It

• These sandals are lightweight, quick-drying, grippy on wet surfaces, and stylish enough for errands.

What to Consider

• The firm sole isn’t ideal for long walks, the exposed strap button may reduce durability, they don’t fold easily for packing, and the fit can feel snug for wider feet or those with bunions.

We originally tested these slides as shower shoes, but these lightweight sandals proved to be a travel MVP thanks to their versatility, durability, and quick-dry design. With a slip-on style and rigid sole for traction, they offered a secure grip on wet tiles, hotel bathroom floors, and around the pool. We used them daily in the shower for two weeks without any signs of wear, and even found them stylish enough to wear out to the beach or for casual errands. While the footbed is fairly firm and not ideal for all-day walking, the sandals felt supportive enough for short outings. Bonus: they dry fast, don’t trap odor like foam styles, and don’t hang onto hair (a weird but real plus in the shower world). Though they don’t fold flat and the exposed button design could be improved, these sandals are a smart two-in-one option that helps save space and weight in your luggage.

The Details: Sizes 4-11 | EVA

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Best Value

Cushionaire Women’s Lane Cork Footbed Sandal

Credit: Amazon $50 $35 at Amazon View on Cushionaire.com Why We Love It

• These slides are exceptionally comfortable, supportive, and stylish enough to pass for pricier brands—all at a surprisingly affordable price point.

What to Consider

• The suede straps can stain from the buckle and may not hold up well in poor weather or long-term heavy wear. 

These budget-friendly slides were mistaken for Birkenstocks twice—and for good reason. With a cushiony footbed, thick rubber sole, and soft suede straps, they offer comfort and support that far exceeds expectations for the price. Our tester found them true to size with just a touch of extra room around the toes, and while the ankle buckle didn’t hit at the perfect notch, the sandals still stayed securely in place. They felt broken in right out of the box and caused no rubbing, pressure, or discomfort, even after long days walking around the city. The sturdy, ridged sole provides decent traction, though the suede straps and open-toe design make them less ideal for wet or rugged conditions. The only noticeable downside was that adjusting the buckle left a black mark on the suede, suggesting the material could be slightly upgraded—but otherwise, these slides are a total steal.

The Details: Sizes 5-13 | Suede, EVA, vegan leather

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Most Packable

Message Mullen Slide

Credit: Message View on Wearmessage.com View on Titlenine.com View on Soleamour.com Why We Love It

• These slides are incredibly comfortable, secure, and supportive with a stretchy, sock-like fit and eco-friendly construction that molds to your feet over time.

What to Consider

• The cork footbed shows visible foot imprints over time, and the price tag may be steep for casual wearers. 

These cork slides might look simple, but they’re hands-down some of the most unique and supportive slides we’ve ever worn (even rivaling our tester’s beloved Birkenstocks). Designed to fit like a sock, the stretchy knit upper molds to your foot over time, creating a snug, secure fit that never slips and requires no break-in period. Paired with a natural rubber outsole and upcycled cork footbed, the shoe offers a dreamy level of arch support, traction, and cushion that held up through months of everyday wear, from sightseeing in Hawai’i to running errands while pregnant. They also pack nearly flat and take up little room in a carry-on. Though the minimalist aesthetic can show some foot imprint over time, the slides remain durable, washable, and endlessly versatile. The price point makes them a splurge, but a justifiable one if you prioritize comfort, craftsmanship (they’re handmade in Portugal), and a refreshing alternative to mainstream slides. Bonus: Message is an eco-conscious small brand worth supporting.

The Details: Sizes 36-46 | Knit and cork

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Best Sporty

Nike Offcourt Adjust Women’s Slides

Credit: Nike View on Famousfootwear.com View on Rackroomshoes.com $40 at Nike.com Why We Love It

• These are extremely soft, supportive, and comfortable right out of the box with a customizable fit and no break-in period.

What to Consider

• The footbed retains heat and can make feet sweaty, limiting use for hot weather or extended outdoor wear. 

If you’re looking for a pair of slides that feel like a plush reward after a long day on your feet, the Nike Offcourt Slides are a dream come true. With a soft, foamy footbed and wide, padded strap, these shoes were designed with comfort in mind—and it shows. The fit runs true to size, and while there are no half sizes, the velcro strap offers precise adjustability for a secure feel. Our tester reported zero break-in time, no rubbing, and impressive support for a house slide. The downside? The ultra-cushioned, porous footbed tends to trap heat—making feet feel sweaty, even indoors—which raises concerns about odor and long-term wear if used outdoors or in summer heat. Still, for lounging around the house, running quick errands, or post-workout recovery, they’re a cozy, budget-friendly pick.

The Details: Sizes 5-11 | Synthetic and foam

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Best Sustainable

Rothy’s The Summer Sandal

Credit: Rothy’s $139 $99 at Nordstrom View on Zappos View on Rothys.com Why We Love It

• These shoes offer supportive, cloud-like comfort with a stylish woven design, plus no break-in period and excellent versatility for travel.

What to Consider

• They run slightly large, and the sole may feel slippery on certain surfaces. 

Stylish, versatile, and surprisingly supportive, these woven sandals feel like they were made for travel. Although T+L writer Rosie Marder recommends sizing down a half size, the shoes were comfortable straight out of the box, with no break-in period and zero foot pain— even after a full day walking around in Florida. The cushioned footbed and superior arch support were especially appreciated by Marder, who has flat feet and bunions, and often struggles to find pain-free sandals. The woven upper is both soft and luxe-feeling, and the design works with everything from poolside looks to sundresses. While the sole may be slightly slippery on some surfaces and long-term durability is still to be tested, the shoes held up beautifully over several wears. Lightweight, machine washable, and easy to pack, they’re a strong contender, even with a splurge price point.

The Details: Sizes 5-13 | Recycled plastic bottles

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Best for the Beach

Freedom Moses Freedom Slides

Credit: Freedom Moses View on Freedomoses.com Why We Love It

• These are supportive, stylish, and easy to slip on, with years of proven durability, decent traction, and lots of color options.

What to Consider

• They are slightly stiff underfoot for all-day wear, and the best color selection requires meeting a shipping minimum on the brand's site. 

After five years and three pairs, this rubber slide has earned its place as our go-to sandals for the beach. Lightweight, durable, and endlessly versatile, it’s ideal for everything from dog walks in New York City to beach trips in Costa Rica. Though the sandals run in dual sizes (like 6/7), T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker found them true to size with no overhang or slipping, and no break-in period required, even straight out of the box. The slightly textured rubber footbed and wide faux buckle straps provide a secure, chafe-free fit, and the tread offers decent grip on sand, cobblestones, or wet sidewalks. One strap did eventually break after two years of near-daily wear, but for their wallet-friendly price point, they more than earned their keep. They’re not as cushioned as a recovery slide, but they outperform flip-flops in comfort and don’t cause between-the-toe blisters. Bonus: they come in a range of fun colors and even arrive with a light, pleasant scent.

The Details: Sizes 4/5-11/12 | PCU

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Best Dressy

Sarah Flint Arabesque Slide

Credit: Sarah Flint View on Sarahflint.com Why We Love It

• These have premium leather construction, cushioned comfort, and an elevated design that’s versatile enough for weddings or nights out.

What to Consider

• They run small and may require sizing up for the right fit, especially if you prefer extra room. 

If you’re looking for slides that feel as luxe as they look, these elevated leather sandals might just be your new go-to for dressier occasions. Crafted entirely from premium leather—including a two-tone upper that adds visual interest—they strike the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. T+L associate editor Anna Popp noted that the slides felt pre-worn in the best way, with buttery-soft leather and targeted cushioning at the heel and ball of the foot. While they don’t offer structured arch support, the padding is generous enough to keep feet feeling fresh through dinners, events, or neighborhood strolls. The slight block heel adds polish without sacrificing comfort. Just be aware: these sandals run small. You’ll likely want to size up by a half or full size for a better fit. At a higher price point, they’re an investment— but one that feels worth it for timeless, versatile, and ultra-wearable style.

The Details: Sizes 4 to 12.5-13 | Nappa leather

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Other Slides We Liked

A few slides below didn't quite make our top list, but they are still options worth considering.

Reef Cushion Vista Hi Sandal: Supportive, true to size, and comfortable enough for hours of walking once broken in, some initial strap chafing and a strong out-of-the-box odor may detract from the otherwise solid quality.

Quince Nappa Leather Double Buckle Slides: These budget-friendly slides are impressively comfortable and Birkenstock-adjacent, with a velvety soft footbed, secure fit, and versatile style that works with everything from dresses to sweatpants, though the slightly snug sizing and cheaper-looking buckle hardware are minor drawbacks.

Crocs Women’s Swiftwater Sandal: We liked these lightweight, flexible Crocs slides since they felt broken in from day one and never caused rubbing or blisters, even on wet pavement or at the beach, but they lack strong arch support.

Our Testing Process

To find the best women’s slides, we conducted hands-on testing designed to reflect real-life scenarios: running errands, commuting, dining out, lounging at home, walking on the beach, and traveling. Each pair of slides was worn on at least two separate occasions, for a minimum of two hours per wear—and in most cases, much longer. We also spent at least an hour breaking them in at home to evaluate initial comfort and fit before testing them out in the world.

For each pair, we carefully examined the materials and construction—including the heels, soles, interior lining, and exterior straps—and evaluated whether they felt high-quality or prone to early wear. We tested flexibility and arch support by bending and twisting the shoes to simulate real-life use. During wear tests, we paid close attention to how the slides felt underfoot, how secure they stayed during movement, and whether they caused any discomfort, rubbing, or blisters.

We also evaluated traction across a variety of surfaces—tile, wood floors, concrete, wet pavement, and more—and noted how well the shoes performed in terms of grip and weather resistance. Finally, we considered versatility, style, and overall value. Could they go from the poolside to dinner? Did they hold up after repeated use? Our testing is ongoing, and we’ll continue evaluating each pair for long-term comfort, durability, and wear-and-tear throughout the season.

Tips for Buying Comfortable Slides

Choose features that signal comfort

When I’m shopping for slides—whether for travel, daily errands, or just lounging at home—I always look for thoughtful design elements that signal real comfort. That includes features like contoured footbeds with arch support, cushy midsole padding (bonus points for memory foam or EVA), and soft, padded straps that won’t dig into the tops of my feet. I’ve worn plenty of slides that looked comfortable but left me with blisters or sore arches within hours. Now, I always read the specs to see exactly what’s built into the shoe—and if comfort features aren’t called out directly in the description, they’re probably not a priority in that design.

Materials make a difference

Comfort is key, but construction matters just as much. I’ve learned that cheap foam and flimsy plastic might feel great on day one, but they’ll break down quickly with regular wear. I now pay close attention to what the shoes are made of—real leather stretches and molds to the foot beautifully (though it can stretch too much if not sized properly), and rubber or EVA soles tend to hold up better on varied terrain. If I’m investing in a pair of slides I plan to wear on repeat, I'm looking for materials that offer both comfort and durability over the long haul.

Consider style and intended use

Slides come in so many forms, and not every pair is right for every activity. I have sporty slides I swear by for post-workout errands and pool days, while my sleek leather pairs are perfect for travel days when I want something I can wear straight from the airport to dinner. If you’re packing light or planning ahead for a trip, think about where you’ll wear them most. Do you need traction for sightseeing? Padding for long walks? Or a minimalist look that still works with dresses? Identifying your own priorities will help you pick a pair that’s right for your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure contributor Alesandra Dubin is a seasoned travel and lifestyle writer and professional product reviewer. As a frequent-flier mom of twins long past the days of sacrificing comfort for fashion, she’s always on the hunt for stylish, supportive shoes that can handle real-life travel. For this story, she drew on her own extensive experience with slides worn everywhere from airports to beaches and incorporated exhaustive testing insights from the T+L team to highlight the most comfortable, durable, and versatile women’s slides.

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