We outdoorists pour untold hours and amounts of energy into finding the perfect fitting footwear required to address each and every one of our ever expanding list of hobbies, be it hiking, running, climbing, cycling, and so on. But when the day’s over, most give little thought to what our foot slides into next–so long as it’s cozy.
In recent years that's begun to change, thanks to the advent of recovery footwear, designed specifically for athletes and those on their feet all day to stimulate muscle recovery and thwart fatigue. We’re not podiatrists, but experience tells us that the love you show your tired feet will be repaid tenfold the next day as you put them through the wringer once again.
To keep your dogs from barking, treat them feet right and consider a pair of recovery sandals or slides made with multiple layers of cushioning foam, arch support, and ideally, a heavy dose of style. There’s nothing wrong with rocking a pair of Adidas slides or Birkenstock Arizona’s, but these purpose-built shoes go the extra mile to stimulate active recovery.
Whether worn on the drive home after a long day of skiing or hiking, or simply with a thick pair of socks on a bodega run, the following top ten picks for best recovery slides for men and women will provide your feet with the support and comfort they deserve.
[Ed Note: If you’re just trying to keep your feet cozy and warm, check out our top picks for the best aprés slippers.]
10 Best Recovery Slides and Sandals for After-Sport and Post-Workout Wear
HOKA ORA Recovery Slide 3
Sitting atop the throne of cush is HOKA ONE ONE (pronounced oh-nay oh-nay, sorry). It comes as no surprise that their ORA Recovery Slide 3 are graced with the same supple and oversized midsoles that are found on their hiking, walking, and running shoes. The supportive midsoles usually seen on their other shoes has been swapped out for more lightweight materials, made specifically for post-run recovery in-mind. The smart grooves of the footbed are especially nice for keeping traction when worn with socks. Prefer the fit of a thong-equipped flip-flop? Check out the Ora Recovery Flip.
Women's Option: Unisex sizing
Price: $60
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Merrell Hut Ultra Wrap
This remix of the trending Hydro Moc transforms the foam-body shoe into an active recovery slide sandal with loads of soft, supportive foam to promote stylish foot health. Adjustable buckled webbing straps help manage blood flow on fatigued feet following a trail run or hike, while a mesh upper keeps it breezy.
Women’s Option: Yes
Price: $80
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Keen Yogui
There’s no shortage of cheap foam sandal options out there, but few turn heads quite like the Keen Yogui, a perennial favorite in Japan. Cranking up the dial on both style and comfort, this option features an injection-molded EVA foam upper (with protected toe) and rubber outsole that’s rumored to be considerably more durable than the lightweight sandal named after a large semiaquatic reptile.
Women's Option: YES.
Price: $75
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