SLIP AND SLIDE
The (Actually) Stylish Slip-On Shoes We’re Sliding Into This Summer
From Birkenstocks to penny loafers, these are all the best slip-on shoes worth buying right now
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Sun: out. Slip-ons: slipped on.
As the weather warms up and vacations commence, we’re breaking out all kinds of slip-on shoes from Birkenstocks to penny loafers. But, besides exuding a laid-back, summer-friendly vibe, the best slip-on shoes also bring convenience: Airport security, beach-to-restaurant transitions, and pool party arrivals all get smoother thanks to slip-ons’ namesake functionality.
If you’re looking for a footwear refresh this spring, read on. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best slip-on shoes for men, including everything from clogs to sandals to smoking slippers.
The Best Slip-On Shoes for Men
Best Loafers: G.H. Bass Larson Weejuns
Best Clogs: Fear of God California Loafers
Best Slip-On Sneakers: Vans Classic Slip-Ons
Best Sandals: Birkenstock Boston
Best Sustainable Slip-On: Cariuma Canvas Slip-On
Best Beach Shoes: Sanuk Sidewalk Surfer
Best Smoking Slippers: Ralph Lauren Purple Label Alonzo
Best Slippers: Glerups Wool Slip-On
Best Boat Shoes: Timberland 3-Eye Boat Shoes
1. G.H. Bass Larson Weejuns
Best Loafers
Loafers are having a moment right now, and these G.H. Bass Weejuns — the original penny loafers — are leading the charge. The brand has a huge selection of Weejun loafer styles (see them all here), but these Larsons are the classic choice. Pair them with shorts and a linen shirt during a hot day, or wear them with slacks and a polo on date night.
Buy G.H. Bass Weejun Loafers $175
1. Fear of God California Loafers
Best Clogs
Fear of God calls these slip-ons “California Loafers,” but they’re really closer to clogs. The sleek, modern kicks are all rubber — which means they can get wet and be wiped down — and the minimal look works flawlessly with muted basics like tees and chinos, jeans, or shorts.
Buy Fear of God California $195
3. Vans Classic Slip-Ons
Best Slip-on sneakers
More than 45 years after its release, Vans’ Classic Slip-On is still the best slip-on sneaker around (and a staple in our spring/summer footwear rotation). They’re comfortable, casual, and ridiculously easy to pair with any personal style. White or black are the most versatile choices for the skate sneaker, but we also love the throwback look of the checkered Slip-On.
Buy Vans Classic Slip-On $59.95
4. Birkenstock Bostons
Best Sandals
Somewhere between a sandal, a clog, and a sneaker is the Birkenstock Boston. They came raging back into style a few years ago, and haven’t left since. And, thanks to the shoe’s ultra-supportive contoured footbed and durable construction, we’ve been wearing the same pair constantly over those same few years.
5. Cariuma Canvas Slip-On
Best sustainable slip-on
Want some easy slip-ons that go easy on the planet? Check out these canvas kicks from Cariuma. The brand uses 100% vegan materials and organic cotton, and they promise to plant two trees in a Brazilian rainforest with each shoe purchase. But, even without their sustainability, the Cariuma slip-ons are still a great summer shoe with a low-key skater-inspired look and a comfortable footbed.
Buy Cariuma Canvas Slip-On $79
6. Sanuk Sidewalk Surfer
Best Beach Shoes
Instead of another pair of flip-flops for beach days, consider these best-selling Sidewalk Surfer shoes from Sanuk. Favorited by surfers, the breathable slip-ons feature a collapsable heel, a contoured footbed, and antimicrobial technology for sock-free use.
7. Ralph Lauren Purple Label Alonzo
Best Smoking Slippers
No one needs a pair of smoking slippers, but, for weddings, dressy occasions, and other special events during the warm months, we certainly want them. This pair from Ralph Lauren’s high-end Purple Label (IYKYK) showcases a classic smoking slipper look with a cotton velveteen upper, piping, and a small heel.
Buy Ralph Lauren Purple Label Alonzo $595
8. Glerups Wool Slip-On
Best Slippers
Finding all-season slippers is tough, but these cult-favorite Glerups fit the bill. Their cozy wool construction keeps you warm in the winter and, in the summer, it regulates heat and wicks sweat. We also think the slippers’ minimal style makes them one of the best-looking pairs on the market.
9. Timberland 3-Eye Boat Shoes
Best Boat Shoes
This year, traditional boat shoes are out, and chunky, colorful boat shoes are in. These Timberlands are a great example of the latter with a hefty lug sole and a tri-color upper. As with other boots from Timberland, the boat shoes are very durable, although these are meant for wearing with chinos or shorts in the city (not construction work).