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.]