10 Best Cloud Slides That Are Like Pillows for Achy Feet
These TikTok-famous slippers have thousands of five-star reviews for being ultra comfortable.
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Once upon a time, style almost always trumped comfort amongst younger generations, with podiatrist-approved footwear being dubbed ugly or worse, geriatric. Nowadays though, people of all ages are recognizing just how important it is to wear comfortable and supportive shoes. That's why everyone's on the hunt for the best cloud slides — the ultra-cushy sandals designed for recovery but often worn for errands and everyday life.
What are "cloud slides"?
Also known as pillow slides and cloud slippers, cloud slides are thick-soled sandals that have been a staple amongst athletic communities for years. “[Cloud slides] are designed to help recover sore muscles in the lower extremity and foot by allowing muscles to have more of a natural motion,” says Mark J. Mendeszoon, DPM, of Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, Inc. in Chardon, Ohio, and owner of Achilles Running Shop.
Looking to hop on the TikTok-approved bandwagon? Dr. Mendeszoon says a quality pair of cloud slides checks a few boxes. “A good recovery shoe is something that will be generally lightweight, have a wide toe box, and a good arch filler to support the foot,” he explains. “The footbed also typically has different pressure points or elevations on the materials to massage your feet and stimulate trigger points to promote circulation.”
The Best Cloud Slides of 2024
To streamline your search, we scoured the web for the highest-rated cloud slides on the market. Keep reading to peruse our popular picks, many of which are under $50 and available on Amazon.
Thanks to solid arch support, these top-of-the-line recovery slides have earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. Available in 10 multiple colors, they have a cushy feel, and the brand claims they can even be tossed in the washing machine for cleaning.
With more than 23,000 reviews on Amazon, these water-resistant comfort slides are a perennial favorite for runners in particular. Many reviewers rave about the arch support and comfort, and say they're especially soothing if you're dealing with plantar fasciitis.
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Like most cloud slides, these super-soft 1.57-inch slippers are made of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), a lightweight, waterproof foam that feels dense yet bouncy. With a molded footbed, these bath slides are perfect for keeping your feet off the funky floor at the gym or when walking around the pool — plus the grippy, non-slip soles offer nice cushioning. They're also easy to clean and come in nearly a dozen colors.
Cushionaire Feather Recovery Slide Sandal
Available in 30 colors, these cloud slides are reasonably priced with a nice, pillowy top and decent shock absorption, according to Amazon reviewers.
The 1.75-inch sole is not as contoured as some, but reviewers say they're great for a few hours after work or a beach day if you don't have to walk far. With more than 25,000 five-star ratings, they're one of the most popular choices for pillow slides on Amazon.
These slides have a 1.7 inch deep sole, so they feel extra soft and spongy. Available in more than a dozen colors, some users say they aim a blow dryer at these shoes for a few minutes to mold them exactly to their feet before wearing. Reviewers say they're durable and very soft but that they don't have good arch support compared to some other brands. Also, apparently, they tend to run a little large.
With a cushy feel and a bandage-style upper, these slides — which come in seven colors — are a fun way to kick off your shoes and chill. Reviewers say they're a great option if you want your slides to have some funky style.
These slides have a 1.6-inch-thick sole that Amazon reviewers love (especially those who say they have plantar fasciitis). They're lightweight, come in nearly 30 colors and are a great slide to toss in your luggage for travel so you don't have to walk barefoot around your hotel room, in the shower, or poolside. With a grippy, textured sole, these quick-dry slides are a great choice for college students using communal showers, too.
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With deeply cupped footbeds and a soft sole, this slide — made by Crocs, a long-time manufacturer of easy-to-wear slip-on sandals and clogs — has a more streamlined appearance than some others. Available in eight mostly neutral colors, reviewers say they offer good support, and the massage beads lining the footbeds offer extra foot pain relief. Just note that they run big, so you may want to size down.
RELATED: Most Comfortable Walking Sandals
These slides, which have earned the APMA Seal of Approval, are a great choice for unwinding after a tough workout or run. Available in more than 20 bright colors, these slides are lightweight and have plenty of airflow vents to help you cool down. Hoka is a popular brand among pro runners, but be aware that reviewers say they run super-wide. Just be sure to snag a pair while you can — new colors sell out fast!
RELATED: Best Shoes for Wide Feet
If recovery slides feel clunky and awkward to you, try this AMPA-approved flip-flop style, which will give you the same cushioning and support as a slide, but it may feel more secure on your foot. It's sold in nine colors. "When I wear the recovery flips, no more plantar fasciitis! The strap is soft and feels great. The footbed has wonderful support with just enough spongy feeling to be super comfortable," one reviewer wrote in part.
CUSHIONAIRE Women's Fame recovery slide sandals with +Comfort
If you like the look of Birkenstocks but want the cushy comfort of a cloud slide, you'll be glad to know the cult-favorite Cushionaire slides come in an updated double-strap buckled version. They're sold in 25 colors, so you're bound to find at least one pair you love.
Arricca Elin SanSone is a freelance writer, editor, and digital content developer. She specializes in lifestyle and interior design content with a focus on gardening. Arricca earned dual bachelor’s degrees summa cum laude in English and classics from Hiram College, as well as an MBA cum laude from Georgia Southern University. Before writing full-time, Arricca studied in Rome, traveled in Europe, and taught school in Asia. With over a decade of experience, Arricca has pitched, researched, and crafted fresh story ideas and content to appeal to national audiences. She has written thousands of articles for print and digital publications such as Country Living, Good Housekeeping, Prevention, House Beautiful, and more. She’s passionate about gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with the people and dogs she loves.
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