The 10 Best Kids’ Slippers for Indoor and Outdoor Fun, According to a Podiatrist
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Finding the best kids’ slippers involves a thoughtful balance of comfort, safety, and style. In the world of children’s footwear, the best slippers for kids go beyond mere aesthetics, even though little animals and fun prints are adorable. It’s important to take into account factors like sizing, materials, support, and durability.
Double board-certified podiatrist Dr. Audey Nassar explains that in an extensive slipper market, it’s important to find high-quality children’s slippers, as low-quality slippers can cause discomfort and increase the risk of slips and falls. “Poorly made slippers often lack proper support for the arches, potentially leading to lasting foot issues,” he says. “You don’t need to spend a ton of money, but beware of construction and materials when buying kids’ slippers. Poorly constructed slippers wear out quickly, becoming unsafe, and ill-fitting slippers can cause foot pain and alter a child’s walking pattern.”
Some brands that Nassar suggests looking into for supportive slippers for kids include Garnet Hill, Bombas, The North Face, and a cult-favorite for men’s slippers and women’s slippers, L.L.Bean. All of these brands carry comfortable, warm, and cute slippers that will make kids want to wear their slippers inside and outside the house.
Parents seeking the ideal pair for their little ones should prioritize a secure fit and non-slip soles so that fast little feet don’t slip or trip on surfaces. Kids’ slippers should ensure safety and convenience, with a touch of style so that they enjoy wearing them, and they’re not left to collect dust under the couch.
From first-time walkers to experienced cruisers, Nassar, along with some tiny testers, helped us find the best kids’ slippers on the market.
Colors available: 3 colors available
Material: Suede leather and rubber sole
Special features: Padded insole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “We have the pink Charley slipper and love how comfortable and warm it is. Fits a bit on the small side, but other than that it’s perfect! Well made and will last a long time!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $41.31
Colors available: 9 colors and motifs
Material: Sweater fleece upper, suede bottom
Special features: Bungee back cinches
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
L.L.Bean Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What testers say: “I bought these for my son, who has special needs and is not always steady on his feet. He wasn’t able to wear other slippers because they were either too awkward to walk in, causing him to fall, or too hard to keep on his feet. These are perfect for him! How they adjust to stay on his feet is what he needed! They are well made and very durable as well. I will order them again and again.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $34.95
Colors available: Available in 10 colors and prints
Material: Rubber and recycled polyester
Special features: Water resistant
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Dicks Sporting Goods Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “Love them, great looking, super comfortable and warm!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Colors available: Available in blue and black
Material: Fleece upper and rubber sole
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “My child loves these slippers. She says they are very soft and comfortable. And they seem to be holding up very well, even being worn every day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $39.99
Colors available: three colors available
Material: Dyed Sheep Fur
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I love these. They’re cute and comfy. Easy to get on, and so so fun!!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $45.50
Colors available: six colors and prints available
Material: Textile and rubber
Special features: Machine washable
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “These are wonderful kids slippers. They do run a little large but I think that is ok as they are WELL MADE and the rubber sole appears to help these slippers last for the long haul. My nine-year-old son loves these slippers. The outer fleece is pretty rough but repels minor spills, while the inner lining is soft, warm, and cozy like momma’s sheepskin slippers which were FAR more expensive. All in all, I am very seriously considering buying another pair a size larger just in case because they are that awesome.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $32.00
Colors available: available in seven colors
Material: Merino Wool upper and Rubber sole
Special features: machine washable
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “My granddaughter loves her Allbirds! So easy to get on and to wash.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $32.50
Colors available: available in three colors
Material: Faux fur upper and rubber sole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “Got three pairs of these for my kids for Christmas and they are perfect. They are soft and warm. I especially like the bottoms are finished with a sole, so the kids don’t slip on wood floors.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $13.94
Colors available: Available in two colors
Material: Slipper: Shell: 50% acrylic, 30% nylon, 20% merino wool; lining: 71% viscose 25%, polyester, 4% elastane
Special features: Stay-put grips, cushioned footbed, foldable, machine-washable
What testers say: “We love these slippers for our little guy. The grip is perfect for the wild runs around the house, they keep his feet super warm but not sweaty. They look adorable. Buy ’em!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $26
Colors available: 10 animal styles
Material: Boiled wool
Special features: Latex grips
Garnet Hill Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
What testers say: “Cutest slippers ever. We couldn’t get them off the boys and the three-year-old doesn’t like anything on his feet. The moose was spectacular and the turtle (for the 18-month-old) was just right.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $60.00
What to Look for in Kids Slippers
When it comes to finding the best pair of slippers for kids, there are several factors to consider to ensure comfort, safety, and durability. Here are some key aspects to look for:
- Material and lining: Opt for slippers made from breathable materials to keep your child’s feet comfortable and prevent sweating. Nassar recommends fabrics like cotton or wool to keep the feet comfortable and regulate temperature. Fleece-lined slippers can be a good choice for colder seasons.
- Size and fit: Make sure the slippers are the right size for kids’ feet. Slippers that are too tight or too loose can be uncomfortable and may even pose a tripping hazard. Look for slippers with a secure closure mechanism such as Velcro or elastic bands to ensure a snug fit. Also consider slippers with a roomy and well-constructed toe box to allow natural movement of the toes, preventing discomfort and potential foot issues, recommends Nassar.
- Closed backs: Closed backs ensure a secure fit and reduce the risk of tripping or slipping, explains Nassar. “Closed backs offer better stability, especially for active kids. Secure slippers are essential for active play, enabling children to move comfortably and engage in various activities,” he says. Ill-fitting or insecure slippers may lead to discomfort and potential issues like blisters.
- Type of sole: Choose slippers with a non-slip sole to prevent accidents, especially if your child will be wearing them on slippery surfaces like hardwood floors. Soles made of rubber or TPR (thermoplastic rubber) are good options for traction.
- Warmth: Consider the climate in your area and choose slippers that provide the right level of warmth. Fleece-lined or wool slippers are great for colder weather, while lighter materials may be suitable for warmer climates.
- Easy to clean: Kids can be messy, so choose slippers that are easy to clean. Whether they’re wearing them in the house or outside, looking for machine-washable or wipeable materials can save you time and effort in keeping the slippers looking fresh. Merino wool is typically machine-washable and can extend the life of slippers.
How We Chose the Best Slippers for Kids
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
With considerations for the best kids’ slippers ranging from warmth to support, we consulted double board-certified podiatrist Dr. Audey Nassar to help us find the best kids’ slippers that are cute, comfy, and functional. He broke down what was important to look for and the brands he recommends. Through Nassar’s recommendations, customer reviews, and personal experience (writer Zoe Roscoe has an 11-month-old and many tiny testers in her life), we found the best kids’ slippers that guarantee both comfort and durability for the active and growing feet. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Audey Nassar is a double board-certified podiatrist certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Dr. Nassar specializes in complete condition and also treats an array of ankle issues.
Meet the Author
Zoë Roscoe is a New York-based fashion and lifestyle writer. Roscoe’s work has been featured on Apartment Therapy, Living Cozy, The Spruce, and more. Roscoe has years of experience covering topics related to footwear, and she used her expertise in the industry to pen this article on the best kids’ slippers.
