Best Spa Slippers

Buying guide for best spa slippers

Written by devangana

Updated September 2022

Whether you are stepping out of the shower, cozying up with a blanket and a good book, or enjoying a self-care day a pair of spa slippers can elevate the experience.  Although they are called “spa slippers”, you need not spend a fortune going to an actual spa to give yourself a similar sense of luxury.

There are many reasons you might be seeking the perfect pair of spa slippers. Changing into spa slippers as soon as you walk into the door is a ritual some people perform as a matter of culture; others do this to prevent germs, mud, and muck from street shoes dirtying up their floors. Putting on a pair of spa slippers can also be a signal to your body that it is time to de-stress and retreat into “home” mode.

We know there are hundreds of spa slippers out on the market designed to meet every possible need, style, and price. The options can seem endless. Let our shopping guide help you make the best choice.

Spa slippers are not for relaxing alone; if you will be doing a lot of housework while wearing your spa slippers, choose a spa slipper made with fatigue-reducing memory foam.

Key considerations

Purpose

What is the main reason you will be wearing spa slippers? That is the first consideration before buying a pair. Will you be buying these for wear at a hotel, salon, or spa? Whether the spa slippers are for your customers or your personal use, you will want the best in comfort and quality.

Inside your home

If you plan to use your spa slippers only for your short trek from the shower to your bed, absorbent, quick-drying fabric is key.

Do you have hardwood floors? If so, you may plan to wear your spa slippers all the time while at home. In this case, look for a pair that has quality insulation that will keep your feet warm and have excellent traction.

Travel

If you plan to travel with your spa slippers, and mainly want them to keep your feet protected and warm in hotels or on airplanes, find a light pair with a flexible sole. An inexpensive, cotton mesh style will be easy to pack and won’t break the bank if you accidentally leave them behind.

Shoeless homes

Some cultures call for the removal of outdoor shoes upon entrance to the home. These families usually offer a pair of spa slippers to guests upon arrival, often set in a basket, by the front door. In this case, you will want to choose washable, inexpensive spa slippers.

Fashion

If fashion is your main reason for wearing spa slippers — perhaps you love to match them to your robe or pajamas — then style choice and color will be your main considerations. After all, spa slippers are primarily for self-pampering, so you should like how they look and feel on your feet.

Slipper style

Sandal-style slippers are popular, but won’t work for everyone. If the area between the big toe and second toe is easily irritated, or if bunions or other foot ailments are an issue, an open, toeless or slip-on style may be best. Similarly, those with back issues may prefer a style with memory foam and a high degree of support, most likely found in slide-style slippers. Sock-like designs have a cozy feeling, and are ideal for those who don’t like the feel of a shoe while relaxing. They also come in a variety of designs and quirky prints.

Washability

If you plan to wear your spa slippers with a pair of socks, you will have less of a need to wash your slippers than if you plan to wear them on bare feet. If you like the ease of throwing your spa slippers in with the wash, double check the care tags to make sure this is not going to ruin them. If your spa slippers will take a beating by everyday wear or occasional outdoor use, slippers with “spot clean only” recommendations may not be sufficient to clean them to your liking. Look for slippers that can hold up to machine washing if easy care if very important to you and you want your slipper to last for a long time.

Features

Style and color choices

Spa slippers come in such a wide variety of styles, designs and colors, you are sure to find a pair that matches your needs and preferences. Some spa slippers made with bamboo or ribbon-like embellishments could even pass for regular sandals. If you enjoy matching your spa slippers to your outfits or personality, you will want to take your time perusing all the choices. Start by looking at makers known for their novel or themed designs.

Traction

Spa slippers with well-made rubber soles offer strong traction against potentially wet tile floors in the bathroom, smooth hardwood floors found in spas, or poolside areas. The bottom of the slipper should be made of rubber or otherwise “grippy” material. Good traction is particularly important to check for when purchasing spa slippers that are made of soft, sock-like material. Often, traction “dots” are attached to the bottom of this type of ballet-style or sock-style slipper. However, not all of these traction “dots” are created equal — check to be sure the traction passes muster when worn against slick floors. For those with physical limitations or any kind of compromised mobility or balance, this is vital.

Adjustable fit

One could be susceptible to discomfort or injury if the spa slippers they choose do not have the correct fit. A common mistake is to purchase spa slippers that are too large, mistakenly thinking that “large” translates into extra comfort. However, if the fit is too large, the wearer may accidentally step out of the slippers while walking, leading to tripping or causing a fall. Consider that some spa slippers will stretch out after a few months of wear.

Heel and arch support are considerations that often are forgotten when it comes to choosing spa slippers. Since comfort is often the key decision upon which a purchase of spa slippers is made, important fit considerations get tossed by the wayside. The same fit considerations you give to regular shoes should be applied to your search for proper-fitting spa slippers. Simple fit tests like toe wiggling space and walking across the room without stepping out of the slipper are recommended.

If you are prone to heel blisters, try a scuff, toe thong, or mule style that leaves the heel open. If you are worried about stepping out of your spa slipper, a ballet style or moccasin is the best choice. Be mindful that some material, like poly/cotton blends may stretch out, while suede or wool will keep its shape.

Durability

If you plan to purchase spa slippers that will last several years, special care should be taken to investigate the quality of materials used. Be prepared to pay more for spa slippers with reputations for their use of high-quality, durable materials, or are offered with a money-back  guarantee. Often, these are made with top-notch materials like lambswool, water-proofed suede, and superior rubber soles.

Price

The lowest price point for spa slippers is as inexpensive as $3. However, it should be noted that this type of spa slipper should be considered ideal for short-term travel, or to put out for guest use, as they will not have a long life. Many spa slippers are between the $18 to $28 price range. If you want extras like exceptionally constructed soles, luxury fabrics like suede, lambswool or even cashmere, your spa slippers price can leap from the $30 arena up to $50 or more.

Tips

• Most spa slippers do not come in half sizes. If you wear a 7.5, you may have to choose between spa slippers in a size 7 or 8. If it is not possible to try the slipper on, choose the smaller size. Spa slippers are more forgiving than regular shoes. On tile, hardwood, or wet floors, it is a safety concern that you don’t accidentally step out of slippers that are too large.

• If they still feel too small, wear them with thick socks for the first few weeks. The slippers will stretch out a bit and will feel like your half-size.

• Spa slippers are great gifts, but selecting a size for your recipient might be tough. In this case, go with a spa slipper that comes in sizes marked small, medium, and large. You’re sure to have a better chance of getting it right with these general sizes.

• Some cold-weather fabrics like yarn cable knit can irritate bare skin. Makers often address this by adding polar fleece, faux fur, wool or wool-like lining, so you can have your pick of these extra comfort features.

• Be wary of spa slippers that claim “one size fits all.” If you do purchase this type of spa slipper, check that the company you purchase them from has a fair return policy, and keep the receipt.

Other products we considered

There are countless spa slippers to choose from, all with an array of features including style, design, fabric choices, and price points. We chose the Dearfoams Fuzzy Pink Terry Slides as one of our alternate choices. The Dearfoams name is well-known and reputable when it comes to slippers, and we loved the fact that these cute slippers have a comfy, nicely padded footbed, are machine washable, and adjustable.  While we love the color, we recognize that “fuzzy pink” may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Another spa slipper that caught our eye is Ultraideas Women’s Memory Foam Open Toe Slide Slippers. These spa slippers got high marks for their adjustable strap, indoor/outdoor anti-skid rubber soles, and fashionability. The downside is the unusual strap, which, while cute and stylish, might be difficult or tricky for some to adjust.

Spa slippers make a thoughtful get-well gift, or a practical going-away gift for the college-bound teen. At a baby shower, expectant moms may especially appreciate the gift of luxurious spa slippers for themselves, since most of the gifts will be for baby. Spa slippers may even be a fun addition to gifts given for a retirement party.

FAQ

Q. Are there any spa slippers that are designed for people with medical conditions?
A. Yes. There are multiple conditions that might require a specific requirement in a spa slipper for those who suffer from foot conditions. A flat, thin sole would not do if you have plantar fasciitis. Instead, go for a pair with excellent arch support. Similarly, those with diabetes or swollen feet may want a sturdy thong-style pair that leaves room for fluctuations in the size of the foot.

Q. I love the comfort of spa slippers. Why can’t I wear them all the time?
A. While it may be tempting to wear spa slippers out as regular shoes, especially if you’re wearing them all day in your home, a medical facility, etc., the level of support needed for an at-home spa slipper is far different than the type of strong support needed for daily wear on pavement or natural terrain. Wearing a spa slipper as a daily street shoe may lead to injury and is never recommended, so we suggest an orthopedic or comfort shoe for extended or outdoor wear.

Q. I’ve tried spa slippers, and I can never get them to stay on my feet. What styles might work for me?
A. Everything from the shape of your arch to the width between your toes can affect the fit of your spa slipper. If you have tried step-in, scuff, mule, and thong varieties, go for a moccasin. Your foot will be and feel secure. If you miss the “cozy” factor of terry cloth, try moccasins lined with faux fur or wool. Ballet slippers with traction points are another option for you.