Latest news with #CloudTec
Business of Fashion
4 days ago
- Business
- Business of Fashion
Why Hoka Is Slowing and On Keeps Growing
In the race to become the next sneaker giant, Hoka's pace is flagging while On shows no signs of slowing. The two European brands are regularly mentioned in the same breath as the challengers shaking up the running market and putting a scare in behemoths like Nike and Adidas. Hoka was born in the French Alps in 2009, On in the Swiss Alps in 2010. Both are known for their distinctive midsoles — an exaggerated, stacked platform in Hoka's case, and an array of tubular segments in On's — and just as importantly, for their runaway growth over the past several years. But recently, their paths have diverged. Last week, Hoka-owner Deckers Group reported that Hoka's sales increased just 10 percent in the quarter through March 31, with growth in its direct-to-consumer channels of 23 percent. Those numbers would be welcome to many companies, but they signalled a significant deceleration from Hoka's typical growth rates, sending Deckers' stock down more than 19 percent since, as investors wonder whether the brand is losing momentum and seeing performance more typical of a mature brand. On, meanwhile, reported 43 percent year-on-year growth in the same period, beating Wall Street's expectations. Sales in its DTC channels grew 45.3 percent. Hoka and On's growth rate diverged this earnings season. (Lei Takanashi /Business of Fashion) 'Overall, Hoka has had tremendous growth, but there is increasing competition, and the need to constantly update and innovate is required to continue to maintain the growth metrics,' said Dana Telsey, chief executive of Telsey Advisory Group, which downgraded Deckers' stock after its recent results. The question now is whether the slowdown is temporary. Deckers' leadership attributed Hoka's results to slower acquisition of new customers due to macroeconomic uncertainty; high levels of promotion for outgoing product models as the brand introduces new ones; and shoppers opting to move towards wholesale accounts to try on and buy new products, which hit its DTC sales. It expressed confidence that performance will pick up as it moves through these issues. Both Hoka and On, however, are looking for their route forward as they strive to maintain their growth, and they could see different levels of success in their strategies. For Hoka, a brand that built its customer base around performance-running, it's working to reach a new lifestyle consumer, evident through actions such as its first luxury collaboration with Marni this year. For On, which has long-established wholesale relationships with fashion and lifestyle retailers around its CloudTec sneakers, as well as an ongoing collaboration with Loewe, the brand is shifting gears to emphasise more innovative performance-focussed products, like its Cloudboom Strike sneakers made with LightSpray technology that podiumed the Kenyan distance runner Hellen Obiri at this year's Boston Marathon. The Hoka-Marni Bondi 3LS was released on April 4 in four colorways. (Hoka) Victor Diaz, founder of the fashion-forward specialty running retailer Renegade Running, believes both brands have achieved recent wins with their respective strategies. Diaz currently finds that the best middle and long-distance elite runners today are running for On rather than Adidas or Nike. And when it comes to high-heat lifestyle sneaker releases, he believes Hoka has quickly come up to speed with collaborations and can rival larger brands such as New Balance. But On's current streak of innovation around supershoes could leave Hoka in the dust. 'Hoka hasn't crossed that threshold yet. They're still struggling to find their racing shoe or their fast shoe,' said Diaz. Strengths and Weaknesses Diaz said that Hoka and On are both strong brands that customers continue gravitating towards for different reasons. When it comes to who's currently winning in regards to selling high-priced innovation, he finds that his 25 to 35-year-old customer base is paying up for On's premium supershoes, such as its $330 Cloudboom Strike LS sneakers or its $220 Cloudmonster Hyper. Hoka has lagged behind on innovation in his view, and while it continues to resonate with trail runners, it's still catching up to On in the lifestyle market. However, he feels both brands are losing grip of a middle-market they once dominated and allowing larger players to grab a hold, pointing to shoes such as Adidas' Adizero EVO SL and Asics' Novablast. 'There are shoes [by Asics, Nike and Adidas] that just feel more lively than anything that Hoka and On are doing in that middle-range, $140 to $160 price point,' said Diaz. Hoka is hoping to reassert its grip with recent updates to franchises like the Bondi 9 and Clifton 10, but its rollouts for these products haven't gone as smoothly as planned. The brand has only had limited colour assortments upon release, while discounted pairs of older styles have remained widely available through wholesale channels, eating away Hoka's DTC sales. On, meanwhile, has been able to mitigate any competitive challenges with a more diversified offering that includes products for tennis, hiking and training. These categories also open up more avenues for future growth. 'New categories build a broader positioning for the brand as it grows into a perceived white space in the premium segment of the market,' wrote William Blair consumer research analyst Dylan Carden in a recent research note. 'Power of the brand in turn opens new categories, where the company will follow a similar playbook, building performance credibility from which it can offer broader lifestyle products.' Setting a New Pace But analysts who are still bullish on Deckers believe Hoka's slower growth this quarter wasn't about cooling demand. UBS analyst Jay Sole, for instance, said in a recent note that he anticipates Hoka's growth will improve with more colours arriving for its best-selling franchises, old products being cleared out and other new product launches coming down the pipeline. 'I'm not really seeing the demand erosion,' said Sam Poser, a Williams Trading equity analyst. 'My guess is in their next quarter, we're going to see some kind of a flip where the domestic DTC business in the US inflects positively and is better than wholesale.' Hoka is also gaining ground outside of the US as it builds awareness globally. Deckers shared on its recent earnings call that Hoka's international sales now represent 34 percent of its total revenue, with chief financial officer Steven Fasching adding that 'internationally [Hoka] would outpace what we're seeing in the US.' Deckers' chief executive Stefano Caroti shared that Hoka was 'moving up brand rankings' with specialty partners in the UK, Germany and Italy, and that it was 'increasing its partner footprint in key cities' in China. The brand is approaching international growth in a meticulous and cautious way by focussing on sell-ins rather than sell-throughs, according to Poser. And even with brands like Nike and Adidas putting out new running styles that are clicking with shoppers, Hoka remains a well-known — and trusted — name in the running world. 'Very serious runners, because of the risk of injuries, like to stick to products they already know,' said Cole Townsend, founder of the running-fashion newsletter and online directory Running Supply. For that reason, many runners will still gravitate towards Hoka for daily trainers. On, meanwhile, still has work to do to win over legions of more serious runners, though Townsend does believe the brand is making inroads with professional runners. Granted that lifestyle is a segment On has a stronger footing in, analyst Telsey believes that Hoka's authenticity and connection to customers such as Townsend will move them to try new offerings from Hoka, in running and beyond. 'They're going through a period of transition a bit given the new product that's being introduced,' said Telsey.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
2 Monster Stocks to Buy and Hold for the Long Term
Dutch Bros stock soared over the past year, but the company is just getting started on expanding its locations around the U.S. On's CloudTec cushioning technology has made it one of the most popular footwear brands, with sales surging 43% year-over-year last quarter. 10 stocks we like better than Dutch Bros › Identifying up-and-coming brands can be a profitable investment strategy. There are promising new businesses starting to gain the attention on Wall Street in the restaurant and athletic wear industries. Dutch Bros (NYSE: BROS) and On Holding (NYSE: ONON) are reporting tremendous demand for their products, and it's reflected in their share price performance, as both stocks roughly doubled in value over the past year. Here's why these stocks are poised to deliver monster returns for investors over the long term. Dutch Bros' unique brand focusing on specialty beverages and friendly service is driving incredible growth. Finding new restaurant brands early in their growth journey can make rewarding stocks to hold for the long term, and this one is very promising. Revenue has consistently grown around 30% year-over-year over the last few years. This is driven by a combination of single-digit same-shop sales growth at existing locations, with the balance driven by new Dutch Bros shops. It reported a 29% year-over-year revenue increase in the most recent quarter, and management plans to maintain a steady pace of expansion, with 160 new shop openings planned for 2025. One thing that makes Dutch Bros an attractive investment is that the business has only just gotten started in tapping into opportunities to drive sales at existing locations. It is having success introducing new flavors to its coffee and energy-focused menu, with recent creations like cereal-flavored lattes and brownie batter mochas. Management credited its new flavors for strengthening its brand and driving outstanding financial results in the quarter. There's an infinite number of ways it can flavor and mix up its beverage menu to drive demand over the long term. This doesn't even count its food testing at some locations to potentially expand the menu into new sales opportunities. Dutch Bros just opened shop No. 1,000 in Orlando, Florida. It aims to have 2,029 shops open by 2,029. It should be able to expand to several thousand over the next decade and fuel multibagger returns for investors. Discovering Nike stock in the 1980s would have delivered wealth-building returns. On Holding might give investors another chance. This up-and-coming footwear brand is growing sales at high rates and already achieving a higher profit margin than Nike. On set a goal in 2024 to grow sales at an annualized rate of 26% through 2026, and it appears ahead of schedule. Sales surged 43% year-over-year in the most recent quarter. It is not only growing faster than other top athletic apparel brands, but its profit margin continues to climb. On is now converting more than 10% of its sales into profits, while Nike's margin has fallen to the single digits on a trailing-12-month basis. On's improving profit margin indicates that it is not taking aggressive sales tactics, such as discounting merchandise, to grow sales. Consumers are paying premium prices for On's advanced cushioning technology, which delivers a soft feel without hurting a runner's ability to explode on takeoffs. The company's sales momentum also reflects that its Cloud shoes are starting to gain traction as an everyday sneaker. It is reaching millions of customers across 80 countries. A great sign of growing brand awareness is that apparel sales are starting to take off, growing 40% year-over-year last quarter. With its annual sales closing in on $3 billion, the brand is gaining share in the athletic apparel industry, yet still small enough to deliver huge gains for patient shareholders. Management is focused on continuing to expand brand awareness, grow its online sales channel, and maintain healthy profitability. The strong demand for its product is pointing to excellent return prospects, as its stock performance already shows. Before you buy stock in Dutch Bros, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the for investors to buy now… and Dutch Bros wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $642,582!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $829,879!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor's total average return is 975% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 172% for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join . See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of May 12, 2025 John Ballard has positions in Dutch Bros. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Nike. The Motley Fool recommends Dutch Bros and On Holding. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 2 Monster Stocks to Buy and Hold for the Long Term was originally published by The Motley Fool Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Daily Mail
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Every celeb has a pair of these £79 trainers - but can YOU get away with wearing the divisive trend?
There aren't many trainer styles that can count Gisele Bündchen, Zendaya and Kevin Bacon as fans. But they've recently all been snapped wearing a trainer brand that, quite honestly, wasn't even on our radar until about a year ago – and is quickly becoming the darling of celebs and influencers alike. The style in question? ON's running shoes. Yes, the ones with the weird bubbly soles that look like they belong in a sci-fi film. ON was founded just over a decade ago in Switzerland, as a performance running brand. Until now, their signature cloud soles have mostly been seen on ultra-marathoners and tech bros who grunt a bit too loudly in the gym. Now, they've strutted their way into the fashion world – and editors are not quite sure how to feel about it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by On (@on) From a practical level, the allure is obvious. Unlike trainers by high-fashion brands (I'm sorry, Balenciaga, I'm looking at you), they're actually designed for comfort. Radical, we know. Their signature CloudTec soles absorb shock like a dream and mean, whether you're headed to parkrun or your local Pret, you've got a literal spring in your step. Aesthetics-wise, they're a bit more controversial. I – along with Zendaya, J-Lo and Emily Ratajkowski – am very much won over. Gym classes are pretty much my entire personality, and ON Cloud's lime green mesh sneakers are the perfect way to brighten up my black sports bra and short set for the summer months. Not everyone, however, is a fan. YOU deputy digital editor Charlotte Vossen went on a date with a guy wearing a pair of ON Cloudtilt shoes, and she was so put off, she ended it early and unmatched him on Hinge. Ultimately, it's up to you to pick your side, but I'm going to try and convince you by compiling a few of my favourite pairs of ON trainers below. Because as far as I'm concerned, athleisure is always in… ON Cloudtilt Stretch Trainers £150 Shop Loewe x ON Trainers £375 Shop ON Cloud X 4 Trainers £140 Shop
National Geographic
12-03-2025
- National Geographic
The best slip-on shoes for women in 2025
By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, National Geographic will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below.* Nothing beats slip-on sneakers when you're facing a long line at airport security or when you're running late for a tour. These days, there's no shortage of options, but it's important to find a pair that balances ease with good support and comfort. To help travelers find the right pair of slip-on shoes, we analyzed top-rated options and spoke with footwear expert Yash Mehta, a spine and sports medicine specialist in Virginia. Our top pick, the Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneaker, stands out for its cushioned midsole and structured heel cup, making it one of the most versatile options. If you have other needs, keep reading. Whether you need a lightweight travel shoe, waterproof protection, or arch support, we've found a slip-on shoe to a variety of needs. The best women's slip-on shoes A good slip-on sneaker should fit securely, feel comfortable, and provide support for hours of exploring. Look for stretchy knit uppers for a snug fit, cushioned insoles for shock absorption, and slip-resistant outsoles for stability on different surfaces. Breathable materials help prevent overheating, while lightweight designs make packing easier for travel. Best overall slip-on shoe for women: Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneaker Photograph courtesy Kizik Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneaker Buy it now at Kizik Why we like it: The Kizik brand is known for its hands-free footwear design, and the Athens is one of its most popular models. The step-in design is pretty smooth, and the breathable stretch-knit upper allows for a snug but adaptive fit. With responsive cushioning and a high-density foam midsole for shock absorption, the Athens is made to reduce foot fatigue during long days of walking. We like that the insoles are washable and that the 'Rabbit Foam' outsole gives even more cushion to the shoe. The structured heel cup offers stability, which helps prevent the shoe from slipping off with each step. We also appreciate that the Athens has built-in arch support, making it a solid option for travelers who need extra comfort throughout the day. Keep in mind: The back of the shoe has a firm structure that may require a short break-in period for some wearers. Product details: Material: Knit upper, removable insole, 'Rabbit Foam' outsole | Weight: 10.4 oz. | Sizes: 6-13 Best walking slip-on shoe for women: On Cloud 5 Photograph courtesy On Running On Cloud 5 Buy it now at On Running Why we like it: The On Cloud 5 is a lightweight yet cushioned shoe designed for all-day wear. It has the brand's signature 'CloudTec' cushioning, a sole construction that compresses on impact. According to the company, this technology helps reduce muscle fatigue and even lower heart rate. We like that the speed-lacing system makes it really easy to slip into. It feels secure around the midfoot, giving walkers a sense of stability without restricting movement. The breathable mesh upper helps with airflow, preventing overheating in warm climates. The grippy outsole offers good traction on urban streets and light trails. Keep in mind: The fit runs narrow, so those with wider feet may need to size up. Product details: Material: Recycled polyester upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 7 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 ( These are the best men's slip-on shoes for travel ) Best running slip-on shoe for women: Nike Pegasus EasyOn Photograph courtesy Nike Nike Pegasus EasyOn Buy it now at Nike Why we like it: Although slip-on shoes aren't recommended for running, Nike's Pegasus EasyOn combines the performance of a running shoe with the ease of a slip-on, which may be a good option for travelers who don't want to skip out on a light jog while traveling. The EasyOn lacing system allows the heel to collapse when you slip your feet in, and a tab cinches the elastic laces in place. The shoe also features the updated version of Nike's React foam cushioning. According to Nike, the 'ReactX' has a lower carbon footprint and better energy return than its predecessor. The engineered mesh upper, which is breathable, helps prevent overheating, and the waffle pattern on the rubber outsole helps increase traction without reducing flexibility. Keep in mind: The snug fit may require sizing up, especially for those who prefer a roomier toe box. Product details: Material: Engineered mesh upper, ReactX foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 9.3 oz | Sizes: 5-12 Best dress slip-on shoe for women: Rothy's The Loafer Why we like it: Unlike traditional loafers that can feel stiff, Rothy's Loafer is flexible and easy to pack. It has a seamless knit upper that the company says is made from recycled plastic bottles, which contribute to a breathable and comfortable experience. These loafers are also made to fit well. The textured knit structure is a little stretchy so they already feel snug, but they're also made to mold to your foot over time. Beyond aesthetics, this loafer is machine-washable, a rare feature for dress shoes. Even better, Rothy's factories have earned the True Platinum sustainability certificate. Keep in mind: Reviewers tend to order a half size larger. Product details: Material: Recycled plastic upper, according to the brand; removable insole; rubber outsole | Weight: 8.2 oz. | Sizes: 5-13 ( Here are 9 of the best walking shoes for women ) Best tennis slip-on shoe for women: Kizik Lima Slip-On Sneaker Photograph courtesy Kizik Kizik Lima Slip-On Sneaker Buy it now at Kizik Why we like it: The Kizik Lima Slip-On Sneaker is built for active travelers who need a secure yet effortless fit. The structured toe box and reinforced heel cup help ensure stability when you're running around the court or keeping up with fellow travelers. Kizik's springy heel easily bounces back into place after you step into them, reducing the need to adjust the fit. You can walk for a good distance in these low-profile slip-ons, thanks to the breathable mesh upper and cushioning. Compared to the Kizik Athens, the Lima has a snugger fit and more structure, making it a better choice for activities that require stability and lateral movement (e.g., tennis, pickleball). Keep in mind: The cushioned sole is thicker, which some may find slightly bulky. Product details: Material: Breathable mesh upper, cushioned insole, rubber outsole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 5-13 Best waterproof slip-on shoe for women: Vessi Boardwalk Slip-On Shoes Photograph courtesy Vessi Vessi Boardwalk Slip-On Shoes Buy it now at Vessi Why we like it: The Vessi Boardwalk Slip-On Shoes are our favorite waterproof slip-ons. They're made with a flexible polyester and nylon blend called 'Dyma-tex,' which is 100-percent waterproof. In addition to its waterproof features, the Boardwalk has a comfortable elastic ankle collar, a flexible sole, and a cushioned midsole. The breathable knit upper is made with temperature-regulating materials that make this slip-on shoe lightweight—ideal for travel and all-weather walking. Keep in mind: The soft knit upper lacks the structure of other sneakers, so some travelers may feel this slip-on lacks the support they need. Product details: Material: Dyma-tex upper, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 6.7 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 Best slip-on shoe with arch support: Oofos Oomy Zen Photograph courtesy REI Oofos Oomy Zen Buy it now at REI Why we like it: The Oofos Oomy Zen stands out for its arch-supporting design and impact-absorbing cushioning. The contoured footbed, a signature Oofos design, actively cradles the arch. Additionally, the Oofos' Oofoam technology is made to reduce impact with each step, which the company says can minimize joint stress. We like that the seamless knit upper provides a lightweight, sock-like fit, while the Zen bands across the heel and instep help ensure a secure feel without unnecessary pressure. Keep in mind: Because the soles are made of Oofoam technology, these shoes may wear out quicker than those with rubber outsoles. Product details: Material: Knit upper, Oofoam sole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 6-11 ( The best walking shoes for every kind of traveler ) Best slip-on shoe for travel: Allbirds Lounger Lift Photograph courtesy Allbirds Allbirds Lounger Lift Buy it now at Allbirds Why we like it: The Allbirds Lounger Lift is designed for travelers who need a lightweight, packable shoe that doesn't sacrifice comfort. The wool-blend upper provides a soft, breathable fit while naturally wicking away moisture, making it a great choice for warm or humid climates. We also like the padded heel collar for extra comfort. The Lounger Lift has a slightly elevated sole, giving the shoe a fashionable edge without reducing comfort. The midsole is made with sugarcane-based 'SweetFoam' that provides a nice bit of cushioning. With a minimalist look, these slip-on shoes pair well with lots of outfits, making it an even better choice for saving valuable suitcase space. You can also throw them in the washing machine—great for long trips when you need to freshen up. Keep in mind: These shoes run small, so go up a half size for the best fit. Product details: Material: Cotton canvas upper, 'SweetFoam' sugarcane midsole, merino wool insole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 5-11 Best slip-on shoe for airport security: Teva ReEmber Slip-On Why we like it: Teva ReEmber Slip-On is one of our favorite travel shoes. They're as comfortable as indoor slippers but just as durable as an outdoor shoe with a rubber outsole for traction. Plus they have a collapsible heel that's easy to step into. The cushioned EVA midsole is made to absorb shock while you're rushing through terminals. The quilted ripstop upper provides lightweight warmth, while the fleece lining adds extra coziness for frosty mornings or chilly airplane cabins. We also appreciate that these slip-ons incorporate recycled materials, according to the brand. Keep in mind: The insulated lining makes these slip-on shoes warm, so it may not be the best choice for hot weather destinations or travelers who prefer wearing slip-ons without socks. Product details: Material: Recycled ripstop upper, recycled polyester microfiber lining, according to the brand; rubber outsole | Weight: NA | Sizes: 6-15 Best commuter slip-on shoe: Hoka Transport Why we like it: The Hoka Transport is designed for city folk who need a supportive, impact-absorbing shoe for getting around town. Built with Hoka's signature thick cushioning, these slip-on shoes help reduce foot fatigue from long days of walking. The quick-toggle lacing system makes it easy to pull on and off while ensuring a secure fit, offering a practical alternative to the classic sneaker. The Vibram EcoStep Natural outsole, which the company says is made with 90-percent oil-free components, provides really good traction on wet or slick streets. The Cordura upper is made to resist abrasions, yet it's breathable. We also like that the Transport incorporates sustainable materials, including a 30-percent sugarcane EVA midsole, according to the brand. Even better—this shoe has received the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for good foot health. Keep in mind: The structured fit may run slightly narrow, so travelers with wide feet may want to size up. Product details: Material: Cordura upper, compression-molded EVA midsole, Vibram Ecostep Natural outsole | Weight: 9.1 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 ( These are the 8 best Hoka shoes for walking ) Best all-day wear slip-on shoe: Merrell Jungle Moc Photograph courtesy Merrell Merrell Jungle Moc Buy it now at Merrell Why we like it: The iconic Merrell Jungle Moc has been a reliable slip-on shoe for more than 20 years. It's designed for all-day comfort, with key features, including strong arch support and a slip-resistant outsole. The water-resistant suede upper looks good and has elastic side panels that keep the shoe secure while you're walking around. This slip-on shoe is comfortable too, with a cushioned heel and a molded EVA footbed that soaks up shock during long days of sightseeing. Travelers get plenty of traction from the M Select Grip outsole, plus odor control built into the footbed. Keep in mind: Because the upper is made of suede, these slip-on shoes may not be the best option for warmer weather. Product details: Material: Suede upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10.9 oz. | Sizes: 5-11 ( Shoe inserts may be one of the best travel hacks. Here are our favorites .) How we chose the best hands-free shoes for women We researched top-rated models, analyzed expert insights, and sifted through hundreds of customer reviews to find the best slip-on shoes. Whenever possible, we tested the shoes ourselves to evaluate fit, cushioning, slip resistance, and support. Here's what we inspected: • Third-party reviews: We went through expert insights and customer feedback to assess each shoe's comfort, durability, and real-world performance. • Brand reputation: We selected shoes from trusted brands known for their high-quality materials and long-term reliability. • Key features: We picked shoes that offer hands-free convenience without sacrificing comfort, focusing on secure fits, cushioned midsoles, breathable materials, and slip-resistant outsoles to ensure all-day wearability. Tips for buying slip-on shoes Fit and support Slip-ons lack laces, which means they often don't provide the same level of support and stability as lace-up shoes. 'If the foot is not fit securely with laces, the heels can slip, and this puts more stress on the muscles of the foot to provide stability, which can lead to fatigue,' says Mehta. To avoid this, look for slip-ons with elastic side panels, cushioned heel collars, or reinforced midsoles. Our top picks, the Merrell Jungle Moc and the Vessi Boardwalk may be good choices for you. Arch support & cushioning Many slip-on shoes lack the structure needed for long-distance walking, which can lead to plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and Achilles tendonitis. 'Unless they are designed with specific arch support, most slip-ons don't provide enough for extended wear,' says Mehta. If you're planning to wear slip-ons all day, choose models with a contoured footbed, firm midsole, and built-in arch support to help reduce strain. Memory foam and EVA-cushioned insoles can also add comfort and shock absorption. Fortunately, travelers have more than a few to choose from, including our top picks the Oofos Oomy Zen , the Hoka Transport , and the Teva ReEmber . Breathability & foot swelling Air travel and warm climates can cause foot swelling, making tight-fitting shoes uncomfortable. 'Tight footwear can restrict the blood flow to your feet, leading to more swelling and discomfort when you travel,' Mehta explains. To prevent this, opt for breathable materials like mesh or soft leather, and look for slip-ons with some flexibility to accommodate foot expansion. If you're traveling, choose slip-ons with stretchable uppers or adjustable fit features for added comfort. We like the Kizik Athens , On Cloud 5 , and the Nike Pegasus EasyOn . Frequently asked questions Are slip-on shoes good for your feet? Slip-on shoes can be good for your feet if they offer proper arch support, cushioning, and a secure fit. However, many lack the structure needed for all-day wear, which can contribute to foot fatigue or stability issues, especially for those with high arches or flat feet. What is the difference between slip-in and slip-on shoes? Slip-on shoes have elastic panels or stretchable uppers that secure the foot without laces, while slip-in shoes typically feature a collapsible heel or backless design, like mules, that are even easier to step in and out of. Are slip-on running shoes good for running? Most slip-on shoes are not ideal for running because they lack adjustable laces for a secure fit and stability. Running shoes have structured support to prevent slipping inside the shoe and reduce the risk of injury. However, some performance-oriented slip-ons, like the Nike Pegasus EasyOn , combine some running shoe features with the convenience of a slip-on design. Iona Brannon is a travel writer and photojournalist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Follow her on is a travel writer and photojournalist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Follow her on Instagram *Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
