Latest news with #GothamFootcare
CNN
30-04-2025
- Health
- CNN
The 18 best running shoes for men in 2025, according to podiatrists and runners
Running shoes quick picks For flat-footed athletes: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Everyday trainers that'll last: Nike Pegasus 41 Plush shoes for runners with arthritis: Hoka Bondi 9 Trail runners with a cult following: Altra Lone Peak 9 When it comes to men's running shoes, there's no such thing as one-size-fits-all. The same gear a trail runner uses to race up a mountain won't do much for a new runner sprinting on a treadmill. Throw in different body types, running gaits, training goals and budgets, and it's clear: Finding the right pair of running shoes takes more than just a flashy design. To give you an idea of which shoes are best suited for your specific needs, I turned to four seasoned running experts to help build a standout lineup. Whether you're lacing up for your first lope or chasing a new personal best, there's something here for everyone. The experts also shared practical, no-nonsense tips on how to choose the right shoes. Here's what they recommend. Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 24 Using Brooks' cushy DNA Loft v3 foam and GuideRails technology (like training wheels on a bike), the Adrenaline GTS 24 offers extra stability on the road. They're a prime recommendation of Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare, for overpronators and patients with flat to Coast Men's P1 Though Mount to Coast doesn't have mainstream brand recognition, Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, reaches for the brand's P1 stability shoes, which she said are superb for pronators who run long distances. Like many of the shoes on this list, they also come stamped with the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) Seal of Men's Addiction GTS 15 Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a multiboard-certified podiatrist and running shop owner, recommends this responsive, extra-supportive model for overpronators with knee, hip or other lower extremity problems. They're so good that you shouldn't need insoles or orthotics, he said. Plus, they come in four widths, from narrow to extra Men's Wave Inspire 21 For 2025, Mizuno updated the Wave Inspire with a wider forefoot and extra cushioning, and Mendeszoon likes them because they are a solid buy for responsive stability. But what makes the Wave Inspire really stand apart is their 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which he said offers 'tremendous heel shock absorption,' to mitigate aggressive heel striking. Hoka Men's Arahi 7 The beefy midsoles on the Hoka Arahi 7 will keep excess pronation in check, Mendeszoon said. Combine that with the stellar shock absorption, outstanding breathability and roomy toe boxes, and you can see why these are another of his favorites. Brooks Men's Beast GTS 24 Whether you've got severely flat feet, have had surgery or suffer from other foot problems, try Brooks' Beast model, Mendeszoon said. They offer some of the most support and cushioning out of Brooks' line and also make excellent walking shoes. The newest model features softer, more breathable uppers without sacrificing their roomy fit. Nike Men's Pegasus 41 The versatile, durable Nike Pegasus 41, one of Cunha's favorites, epitomize what everyday trainers should aspire to. Upgrades in 2025 include an increase in the shoe's cushioning, more breathable uppers and an improved lacing system for a dialed fit. Saucony Men's Ride 18 Like the Pegasus 41, the Saucony Ride 18 are like the Swiss Army knife of the road running world, offering something for long-distance runners, casual joggers and men who just want a comfy pair of walking shoes. Cunha added that they also accommodate most foot types and running Men's Glycerin 22 If you're the kind of guy who likes to wear running shoes to the office and the gym, then the Glycerin 22 are the do-it-all model you're looking for. Parthasarathy said they're one of her top picks for everyday wear and running, thanks to the well-cushioned midsoles and wide toe boxes. You can also snag the Glycerin GTS 22, which offer more support for Men's Bondi 9 With their 'bouncy, cushioned feel,' Parthasarathy said she points patients to the Bondi 9 if they have fat pad atrophy or arthritis. The newest version has a higher stack height for an ultra-plush experience on the road. Asics Men's Gel-Nimbus 27 'The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 remains one of my top choices for neutral runners looking for extra cushioning and long-distance comfort,' Cunha said. For this year's model, expect an even higher, squishier midsole. Hoka Men's Clifton 10 'For patients seeking all-around performance, the Hoka Clifton 10s offer superior cushioning and a smooth ride — ideal for heel strikers and long-distance runners,' Cunha said. The newest iteration also comes with more cushioning, a roomier forefoot and toe Balance Men's Fresh Foam X 1080v14 Men with wide feet should test drive New Balance's 1080v14, Cunha said. The brand has equipped the cushioned, everyday running shoes with new, more breathable uppers and extra rubber for more durability. Brooks Men's Ghost 17 Despite being hot off the assembly line, Parthasarathy is already recommending Ghost's newest model for its 'very responsive' design that will suit neutral or supinated gaits. At time of publication, they're available for preorder at Brooks. Altra Men's Lone Peak 9 Contributing writer Cassandra Brooklyn called the Altra Lone Peak some of the best hiking shoes you can buy. They have a cult-like following among trail runners too, and received plaudits from Cunha for their wide toe boxes and zero-drop platforms, 'which promote natural foot movement.'Read our review La Sportiva Men's Bushido 3 After runners on staff logged more than 100 miles in 13 popular trail running shoes, the Bushido 3 emerged as our favorite, impressing testers with their sticky rubber, cooling ventilation and aggressive lugs. Keep in mind, however, that these are truly specialist shoes that won't work well on the road or for casual exercise in the our review Brooks Men's Cascadia 18 Whereas the Bushido 3 would be overkill for road running, our testers found the Cascadia versatile enough to take on- and off-road. (We tested the 17, which are very similar.) They've got rock plates and overlays to protect you when the terrain is tough, and just enough cushioning for long walks, hikes and road our review Hoka Men's Speedgoat 6 Though our trail running experts at CNN Underscored haven't tried the newest model of the Speedgoat, an earlier iteration is our pick for long-distance trail runs and ultramarathons. Highlights include flexible uppers that expand as your feet swell and comfy cushioning. Read our review 'The right running shoes can make a big difference in preventing injuries, improving comfort and keeping the entire body in better alignment while running,' Cunha said. Know your gait pattern Cunha believes your gait, the way you move when you run, is a key factor when choosing the best pair of running shoes, and he noted three gait or stride patterns: Pronation: When your feet roll inward. Supination: When your feet roll outward. Neutral: When your feet distribute weight evenly. And though this may sound technical, figuring out your own gait doesn't have to be. 'Going to your local run shop and getting an in-person gait analysis is absolutely the best way to have veteran eyes tell you what shoe is best for you,' Sackett said. Or, if you're willing to do a little DIY investigation, Cunha suggests looking at the wear patterns on your old shoes to get a better idea of how your feet hit the ground when you run. Find shoes that fit Once you know your gait pattern and terrain, the last thing to consider is the right fit. 'A proper fit helps prevent pain, blisters and injuries like plantar fasciitis or toenail trauma,' Cunha said. 'If it feels off in the store, it'll feel worse on a run.' Look for running shoes that fit snug but not tight, with about a thumb's-width of space between your big toes and the ends of the shoes. 'The toe box should be wide enough to wiggle your toes, and the shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, not through the arch,' he added. Another pro tip? Make sure you try on your shoes at the right time of day. Parthasarathy recommends shopping toward the end of the day, after a run, when your feet are most swollen. 'If they feel good then, they'll likely feel good during a run,' Cunha added. Still not sure what to buy? Lean on a podiatrist or a trusted staffer at a specialty running store for guidance. 'Running shoes are the best they've ever been, and nowadays you can really find something for every running style,' Sackett said. The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Miguel Cunha and Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, and product line manager at Brooks, Lee Sacket. What are the best running shoes for beginners? What are the best running shoes for beginners? 'For someone just getting into running, I always recommend starting with a balanced, 'perfect blend' type of shoe,' Sackett said, 'so you can start to unpack the features and feelings that you like and dislike on the run while still staying protected and comfortable.' In technical terms, he said to find a pair with a medium stack height (28 millimeters to 36 millimeters), a soft, responsive midsole, an upper that fits comfortably with the contours of your feet and enough stretch for your toes to spread out. How long do running shoes last? How long do running shoes last? Parthasarathy and Cunha said that it's important to replace shoes every 300 to 500 miles. 'Worn-out shoes can lead to heel pain, shin splints, knee pain or even back issues,' Cunha said. You can also try bending shoes to check wear, Parthasarathy said. If they bend in half, it's time for a new pair. Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes? Are there differences between men's and women's running shoes? 'At Gotham Footcare, I often explain to my patients that women's running shoes are typically designed with a narrower heel, softer cushioning and a different arch design to accommodate anatomical differences,' Cunha said. 'Men's shoes tend to be wider and built with slightly firmer midsoles to support greater body weight and wider foot structure.' That said, 'fit and function' matter most, regardless of gender, according to Cunha. If you're a guy who prefers a pair of women's running shoes, wear those instead. To ensure this guide features high-quality advice and recommendations, I spoke to four experts, including three podiatrists and a product line manager at Brooks. Dr. Miguel Cunha, podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, multiboard-certified podiatrist at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties and owner of Achilles Running Shop, a specialty shop dedicated to runners, walkers and athletes Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, podiatric surgeon and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association Lee Sackett, product line manager at Brooks Running CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Here, associate writer Maxwell Shukuya interviewed running and health care experts. Whenever possible, Shukuya also included products we've tested and loved in other health and fitness guides.
CNN
29-01-2025
- Health
- CNN
The 10 best men's slippers on Amazon, according to podiatrists
From budget-friendly slippers to designer house shoes, Amazon has an abundance of men's slippers to choose from. With over 20,000 options, it can be overwhelming to find the best fit for your needs. In order to help you find your new favorite pair, we reached out to several podiatrists for their expert recommendations. We consulted these foot and ankle experts for their tips on how to shop for men's house shoes and for insights into the most comfortable slippers available. Keep reading to find their picks for the best men's slippers on Amazon that will provide the most comfort and support for daily use. Oncai Men's Clog Slippers According to Dr. Miguel Cunha, board-certified foot surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare, these slippers are 'an excellent choice for comfort and support. Made with a cotton blend upper and a clog-style heel, they're easy to slip on and off. The high-density memory foam insole provides superior cushioning, while the rubber sole ensures stability and prevents slips, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.' Cunha says that since 'they are engineered with contoured arch support, these slippers help relieve foot pain, especially for people with high arches.' Ugg Men's Tasman Slippers Cunha also says he 'highly [recommends] the Ugg Tasman slipper for men," which are lined with the brand's signature plush wool shearling and have a durable, lightweight outsole. "Its easy slip-on design, combined with eco-friendly materials like sugarcane EVA and upcycled wool, offers exceptional comfort and sustainability,' he says. Orthofeet Asheville Orthopedic Clog Slipper Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, says she likes how these slippers come 'with a premium orthotic insole for adequate arch support and offers adjustable side straps for a custom fit. With soft leather uppers, the slippers will be easy to clean and mold to your feet for further custom fit.' Sorel Men's Manawan ll Slipper Whether you're relaxing at home or running errands, the suede exterior, faux fur lining and rubber outsole of these slippers add comfort and reliability with traction and grip. Plus, the slip-on design makes them incredibly easy and quick to take off and put on. European Softest Men's 80-D Memory Foam Diabetic Slipper With Adjustable Closures Dr. Michael Nirenberg, clinical and forensic podiatrist at Friendly Footcare, recommends these slippers 'for men with diabetes, poor circulation or whose feet swell up quite a bit.' He also appreciates how 'this slipper allows you to adjust the width so the fit can be close to perfect.' RockDove Men's Original Two-Tone Memory Foam Slipper Cunha says these slippers offer 'easy on/off convenience with a breathable waffle knit upper and a memory foam insole that molds to your foot for superior cushioning and support. The durable rubber sole makes it ideal for quick indoor-to-outdoor use, while being non-marking and quiet on floors, and its machine washable for easy care.' Vionic Gustavo Men's Slipper 'With Vionic's trademark arch support, this option is very supportive and versatile to wear around home or running errands in style,' says Daughtry. These slippers offer 'a durable synthetic outsole with excellent traction to withstand everyday wear even outdoors along with water-repelling coating on the suede upper. The lightweight EVA midsole offers excellent shock absorption and reduced stress on your feet and ankles,' she says. Koolaburra by Ugg Men's Burree Slipper Nirenberg says, 'The Koolaburra Burree by Ugg is a great, comfortable slipper for men who have healthy feet.' He especially likes that 'they provide warmth and comfort, while being very lightweight.' Orthofeet Men's Orthopedic Leather Vito Hands-Free Slipper Nirenberg recommends these slippers 'for men who need a good arch support for their feet.' He likes that 'it can be 'hands-free' as some older men have trouble bending over to put on their slippers.' Dearfoams Men's Brendan Indoor/Outdoor Memory Foam Slippers Daughtry says these slippers 'offer multi-density cushioned insoles with gel-infused memory foam and increased arch and heel cushioning for extra comfort." They can be worn inside or out thanks to a durable rubber outsole for traction, and DF adapt technology that helps keep feet cool and dry. "Another plus is that they are machine washable and offer various colors and wide widths," she says. Since men's slippers are worn daily inside the house and occasionally outside to pick up the mail and run other errands, these shoes should be durable, comfortable and offer support. Daughtry recommends looking for 'slippers that have good arch support, as you would any other comfortable shoe. People tend to forget the need for support of the feet when walking around their home. More often than not, many people have hardwood/laminate flooring and less carpet but this can be more harsh on bare feet and lead to multiple foot conditions,' she says. Cunha recommends '[paying] close attention to details such as the width, heel height and strength of the arch to guarantee comfort. Ensure that the slipper is wide enough in the forefoot especially if you suffer from bunions, hammer toes and neuromas.' A wide toe box, with enough room for your toes to move without any pressure on them, will be the most comfortable and prevent irritation or sores. Cunha also suggests '[looking] for a slipper that is rigid and not flimsy in the middle. If the slipper bends easily, you will not get adequate arch support.' Arch support is important for minimizing arch fatigue and discomfort, according to the podiatrist. Nirenberg agrees and says 'a good arch support is a must, as it can lessen strain on the foot and even help prevent aggravating an arthritic joint or flaring up plantar fasciitis (an inflammation of the ligament on the bottom of the foot that can cause heel pain).' Cunha also says to opt for slippers with 'a slight heel lift to reduce the stress and pain affecting the plantar fascia, posterior tibial and achilles tendons, which is commonly associated with arch pain.' He also emphasizes that 'it is important to pick a slipper that offers as much durability and protection as possible without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.' Nirenberg says most people should wear slippers, noting that it can even be a safety hazard to not wear house shoes. 'It is not uncommon for people to see me for having a foreign object, such as a small splinter or piece of glass, in their foot from walking barefoot around their house,' he says. He 'especially [advises] men with diabetes, neuropathy or poor circulation to wear slippers to protect their feet. Beyond protecting our feet from stepping on something sharp, some slippers come with a good arch support.' Nirenberg adds that 'walking around the house puts stress on our feet and a slipper with a good arch support is a good alternative to having to wear shoes all day.' The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Miguel Cunha, Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry and Dr. Michael Nirenberg. What is the most comfortable material for men's slippers? What is the most comfortable material for men's slippers? Cunha provides a list of the most comfortable materials he recommends below. He notes that 'each of these materials are great for slippers and have unique benefits when used in a good pair of slippers. The choice of material depends on personal preference and the intended use of the slipper as it provides comfort, durability and versatility of use.' Suede: Suede is soft and comfortable but is not the best material to wick away moisture. Cotton: Cotton is not as soft as suede but is highly breathable and comfortable for lining of slippers. Cotton is not as efficient at wicking away moisture as wool, which can lead to less comfort if the environment is humid. Wool: Wool is ideal for colder climates as it provides superior insulation and warmth. Wool is effective at wicking away moisture and keeps feet comfortable. Polyester: Polyester is known for its durability. This material does not stretch, shrink or wrinkle easily and is often blended with other materials to provide strength and longevity. Nylon: Nylon is resilient, fast drying and typically used to provide durability and strength. Memory foam: Memory foam molds to the anatomy of the foot and is typically used in insoles for customized support and cushioning as it helps relieve pressure and distribute weight evenly across the foot. Rubber: Rubber is typically used on the outsoles to provide protection and shock absorption of the foot as well as grip and traction of the sole. Ethylene vinyl acetate: EVA is often used in midsoles as this material is lightweight, shock-absorbing and helps provide cushioning and comfort. Daughtry says, 'The most comfortable material would be sheepskin or wool/shearling as this allows for breathability' while still being 'warm and soft for the skin.' Daughtry notes that this material 'enables the slippers to be cozy but does not overheat the feet unlike synthetic materials which does not allow for wicking away sweat and can cause the feet to become too hot. Non-skid soles are also an issue to consider, especially for those that may have balance/stability issues or at fall risk.' Should you size up or size down men's slippers? Should you size up or size down men's slippers? Nirenberg recommends his 'male patients who are looking to buy slippers to find one that fits on the loose side, as most feet swell a little — or in some cases, a lot — as the day goes on. If your feet do swell a lot, you may want to wear a slipper that is adjustable in width to give your feet more room when they swell up.' Similarly, Cunha recommends trying on slippers at the end of the day to ensure an accurate fit. 'Fluid retention in your feet is the most prominent at the end of the day due to the cumulative effects of gravity,' he says. 'If the slipper fits well at the end of the day, they are most likely to feel comfortable throughout the day. If you are between sizes, buy a half size up from your usual size.' Daughtry also says, 'Most slippers run true to size but consider if you will be wearing the slippers with socks and keep in mind the style and materials of the slipper. Size up if you are a half size or need a wider width shoe.' How do you clean men's slippers? How do you clean men's slippers? Daughtry says that 'depending on the material, most slippers will need to be washed by hand or spot cleaned. Check the label or look online to see if your slippers are able to be machine washed.' If they are able to be machine washed, Daughtry recommends removing the insoles (if possible) and placing the slippers in a mesh bag and wash them on a gentle cycle. 'If unsure if the slippers are machine washable, try hand washing in warm water with mild detergent and use a soft cloth or brush to gently clean the slippers, rinse well and let the slippers air dry in a cool, ventilated place,' she says. If they're not machine washable, Cunha suggests to 'start by spot cleaning most slippers using a damp cloth and mild dishwasher soap for smaller stains.' If your slippers have a foul odor, Daughtry recommends you 'sprinkle some baking soda and let the slippers sit for a few hours then vacuum out the baking soda. Essential oils or spraying with Lysol can also be applied to the foot bed. If the slippers are made with leather, use a leather conditioner to keep leather soft and supple.' For regular cleaning, Nirenberg also recommends 'every day or two spraying them with Lysol spray and letting them air out before wearing them.' For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights on how to choose the best men's slippers on Amazon. Dr. Miguel Cunha, board-certified foot surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon based in North Carolina Dr. Michael Nirenberg, clinical and forensic podiatrist at Friendly Footcare in Indiana Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don't just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands to make sure every product we recommend is worthy of your money. In addition to hands-on testing products, we also consult top experts to understand what features, benefits and possible downsides each item offers. We seek out important considerations and advice from our experts to help give you the information you need to make smarter shopping decisions. For this story, editorial coordinator Stephanie Luna interviewed foot and ankle specialists for insights into the most comfortable materials for men's slippers and what to consider when shopping for slippers on Amazon. Explore trending products Ralph Lauren Purple Label Braided Leather Belt Morjas The Belt Emporio Armani Reversible Leather Belt Todd Snyder Classic Suede Dress Belt
CNN
29-01-2025
- Health
- CNN
The 10 best men's slippers on Amazon, according to podiatrists
From budget-friendly slippers to designer house shoes, Amazon has an abundance of men's slippers to choose from. With over 20,000 options, it can be overwhelming to find the best fit for your needs. In order to help you find your new favorite pair, we reached out to several podiatrists for their expert recommendations. We consulted these foot and ankle experts for their tips on how to shop for men's house shoes and for insights into the most comfortable slippers available. Keep reading to find their picks for the best men's slippers on Amazon that will provide the most comfort and support for daily use. Oncai Men's Clog Slippers According to Dr. Miguel Cunha, board-certified foot surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare, these slippers are 'an excellent choice for comfort and support. Made with a cotton blend upper and a clog-style heel, they're easy to slip on and off. The high-density memory foam insole provides superior cushioning, while the rubber sole ensures stability and prevents slips, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.' Cunha says that since 'they are engineered with contoured arch support, these slippers help relieve foot pain, especially for people with high arches.' Ugg Men's Tasman Slippers Cunha also says he 'highly [recommends] the Ugg Tasman slipper for men," which are lined with the brand's signature plush wool shearling and have a durable, lightweight outsole. "Its easy slip-on design, combined with eco-friendly materials like sugarcane EVA and upcycled wool, offers exceptional comfort and sustainability,' he says. Orthofeet Asheville Orthopedic Clog Slipper Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, says she likes how these slippers come 'with a premium orthotic insole for adequate arch support and offers adjustable side straps for a custom fit. With soft leather uppers, the slippers will be easy to clean and mold to your feet for further custom fit.' Sorel Men's Manawan ll Slipper Whether you're relaxing at home or running errands, the suede exterior, faux fur lining and rubber outsole of these slippers add comfort and reliability with traction and grip. Plus, the slip-on design makes them incredibly easy and quick to take off and put on. European Softest Men's 80-D Memory Foam Diabetic Slipper With Adjustable Closures Dr. Michael Nirenberg, clinical and forensic podiatrist at Friendly Footcare, recommends these slippers 'for men with diabetes, poor circulation or whose feet swell up quite a bit.' He also appreciates how 'this slipper allows you to adjust the width so the fit can be close to perfect.' RockDove Men's Original Two-Tone Memory Foam Slipper Cunha says these slippers offer 'easy on/off convenience with a breathable waffle knit upper and a memory foam insole that molds to your foot for superior cushioning and support. The durable rubber sole makes it ideal for quick indoor-to-outdoor use, while being non-marking and quiet on floors, and its machine washable for easy care.' Vionic Gustavo Men's Slipper 'With Vionic's trademark arch support, this option is very supportive and versatile to wear around home or running errands in style,' says Daughtry. These slippers offer 'a durable synthetic outsole with excellent traction to withstand everyday wear even outdoors along with water-repelling coating on the suede upper. The lightweight EVA midsole offers excellent shock absorption and reduced stress on your feet and ankles,' she says. Koolaburra by Ugg Men's Burree Slipper Nirenberg says, 'The Koolaburra Burree by Ugg is a great, comfortable slipper for men who have healthy feet.' He especially likes that 'they provide warmth and comfort, while being very lightweight.' Orthofeet Men's Orthopedic Leather Vito Hands-Free Slipper Nirenberg recommends these slippers 'for men who need a good arch support for their feet.' He likes that 'it can be 'hands-free' as some older men have trouble bending over to put on their slippers.' Dearfoams Men's Brendan Indoor/Outdoor Memory Foam Slippers Daughtry says these slippers 'offer multi-density cushioned insoles with gel-infused memory foam and increased arch and heel cushioning for extra comfort." They can be worn inside or out thanks to a durable rubber outsole for traction, and DF adapt technology that helps keep feet cool and dry. "Another plus is that they are machine washable and offer various colors and wide widths," she says. Since men's slippers are worn daily inside the house and occasionally outside to pick up the mail and run other errands, these shoes should be durable, comfortable and offer support. Daughtry recommends looking for 'slippers that have good arch support, as you would any other comfortable shoe. People tend to forget the need for support of the feet when walking around their home. More often than not, many people have hardwood/laminate flooring and less carpet but this can be more harsh on bare feet and lead to multiple foot conditions,' she says. Cunha recommends '[paying] close attention to details such as the width, heel height and strength of the arch to guarantee comfort. Ensure that the slipper is wide enough in the forefoot especially if you suffer from bunions, hammer toes and neuromas.' A wide toe box, with enough room for your toes to move without any pressure on them, will be the most comfortable and prevent irritation or sores. Cunha also suggests '[looking] for a slipper that is rigid and not flimsy in the middle. If the slipper bends easily, you will not get adequate arch support.' Arch support is important for minimizing arch fatigue and discomfort, according to the podiatrist. Nirenberg agrees and says 'a good arch support is a must, as it can lessen strain on the foot and even help prevent aggravating an arthritic joint or flaring up plantar fasciitis (an inflammation of the ligament on the bottom of the foot that can cause heel pain).' Cunha also says to opt for slippers with 'a slight heel lift to reduce the stress and pain affecting the plantar fascia, posterior tibial and achilles tendons, which is commonly associated with arch pain.' He also emphasizes that 'it is important to pick a slipper that offers as much durability and protection as possible without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.' Nirenberg says most people should wear slippers, noting that it can even be a safety hazard to not wear house shoes. 'It is not uncommon for people to see me for having a foreign object, such as a small splinter or piece of glass, in their foot from walking barefoot around their house,' he says. He 'especially [advises] men with diabetes, neuropathy or poor circulation to wear slippers to protect their feet. Beyond protecting our feet from stepping on something sharp, some slippers come with a good arch support.' Nirenberg adds that 'walking around the house puts stress on our feet and a slipper with a good arch support is a good alternative to having to wear shoes all day.' The following FAQs have been answered by podiatrists Dr. Miguel Cunha, Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry and Dr. Michael Nirenberg. What is the most comfortable material for men's slippers? What is the most comfortable material for men's slippers? Cunha provides a list of the most comfortable materials he recommends below. He notes that 'each of these materials are great for slippers and have unique benefits when used in a good pair of slippers. The choice of material depends on personal preference and the intended use of the slipper as it provides comfort, durability and versatility of use.' Suede: Suede is soft and comfortable but is not the best material to wick away moisture. Cotton: Cotton is not as soft as suede but is highly breathable and comfortable for lining of slippers. Cotton is not as efficient at wicking away moisture as wool, which can lead to less comfort if the environment is humid. Wool: Wool is ideal for colder climates as it provides superior insulation and warmth. Wool is effective at wicking away moisture and keeps feet comfortable. Polyester: Polyester is known for its durability. This material does not stretch, shrink or wrinkle easily and is often blended with other materials to provide strength and longevity. Nylon: Nylon is resilient, fast drying and typically used to provide durability and strength. Memory foam: Memory foam molds to the anatomy of the foot and is typically used in insoles for customized support and cushioning as it helps relieve pressure and distribute weight evenly across the foot. Rubber: Rubber is typically used on the outsoles to provide protection and shock absorption of the foot as well as grip and traction of the sole. Ethylene vinyl acetate: EVA is often used in midsoles as this material is lightweight, shock-absorbing and helps provide cushioning and comfort. Daughtry says, 'The most comfortable material would be sheepskin or wool/shearling as this allows for breathability' while still being 'warm and soft for the skin.' Daughtry notes that this material 'enables the slippers to be cozy but does not overheat the feet unlike synthetic materials which does not allow for wicking away sweat and can cause the feet to become too hot. Non-skid soles are also an issue to consider, especially for those that may have balance/stability issues or at fall risk.' Should you size up or size down men's slippers? Should you size up or size down men's slippers? Nirenberg recommends his 'male patients who are looking to buy slippers to find one that fits on the loose side, as most feet swell a little — or in some cases, a lot — as the day goes on. If your feet do swell a lot, you may want to wear a slipper that is adjustable in width to give your feet more room when they swell up.' Similarly, Cunha recommends trying on slippers at the end of the day to ensure an accurate fit. 'Fluid retention in your feet is the most prominent at the end of the day due to the cumulative effects of gravity,' he says. 'If the slipper fits well at the end of the day, they are most likely to feel comfortable throughout the day. If you are between sizes, buy a half size up from your usual size.' Daughtry also says, 'Most slippers run true to size but consider if you will be wearing the slippers with socks and keep in mind the style and materials of the slipper. Size up if you are a half size or need a wider width shoe.' How do you clean men's slippers? How do you clean men's slippers? Daughtry says that 'depending on the material, most slippers will need to be washed by hand or spot cleaned. Check the label or look online to see if your slippers are able to be machine washed.' If they are able to be machine washed, Daughtry recommends removing the insoles (if possible) and placing the slippers in a mesh bag and wash them on a gentle cycle. 'If unsure if the slippers are machine washable, try hand washing in warm water with mild detergent and use a soft cloth or brush to gently clean the slippers, rinse well and let the slippers air dry in a cool, ventilated place,' she says. If they're not machine washable, Cunha suggests to 'start by spot cleaning most slippers using a damp cloth and mild dishwasher soap for smaller stains.' If your slippers have a foul odor, Daughtry recommends you 'sprinkle some baking soda and let the slippers sit for a few hours then vacuum out the baking soda. Essential oils or spraying with Lysol can also be applied to the foot bed. If the slippers are made with leather, use a leather conditioner to keep leather soft and supple.' For regular cleaning, Nirenberg also recommends 'every day or two spraying them with Lysol spray and letting them air out before wearing them.' For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights on how to choose the best men's slippers on Amazon. Dr. Miguel Cunha, board-certified foot surgeon and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon based in North Carolina Dr. Michael Nirenberg, clinical and forensic podiatrist at Friendly Footcare in Indiana Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don't just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands to make sure every product we recommend is worthy of your money. In addition to hands-on testing products, we also consult top experts to understand what features, benefits and possible downsides each item offers. We seek out important considerations and advice from our experts to help give you the information you need to make smarter shopping decisions. For this story, editorial coordinator Stephanie Luna interviewed foot and ankle specialists for insights into the most comfortable materials for men's slippers and what to consider when shopping for slippers on Amazon. Explore trending products Ralph Lauren Purple Label Braided Leather Belt Morjas The Belt Emporio Armani Reversible Leather Belt Todd Snyder Classic Suede Dress Belt
