Slip-Ons

Can you wear slip-on shoes outside?

Depends entirely on the sole. A moulded rubber outsole with real tread is a street shoe that happens to have no laces, and it will take a wet pavement without complaint. A soft suede sole with a thin foam layer is an indoor shoe that looks like a street shoe, and one rainy walk ruins it. Turn the shoe over before you decide where it goes.

Three shapes do most of the work here. A backless mule is the fastest thing to put on and the least secure, so it suits short distances. A closed clog holds the foot properly and handles a full day. A footbed sandal or slide sits between the two and takes a sock without looking like a mistake.

Sizing runs large on most slip-ons because there is no lace to pull the fit in. If you are between sizes, take the smaller one.

Also in women's footwear: sneakers and boots.