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Top Slip-On Work Shoes for Comfort and Convenience

Work shoes are essential for protecting the feet and keeping them comfortable on the job.

Traditional work shoes come with lace-up designs, but if you’re looking for more convenience, you may want to check out slip-on styles. These shoes can be worn and taken off in a fraction of the time it needs to deal with lace-up shoes for a shorter prep time without too much fuss.

Even without the lacing system, these slip-on shoes are designed with high-performance features to keep up with various work conditions and activities.

In this article, we’ll look at the top slip-on work shoes and the qualities that benefit different job settings.

Quick Summary – Top Picks

Detailed Evaluation Table

  • Rating

    This is the trial text to check ratings.

    • Best in class
    • Excellent
    • Good
    • Fair
    • Poor
  • Price range
  • Overall score
  • Performance Breakdown
  • Comfort & Fit
  • Design & Build Quality
  • Durability
  • Sole & Traction
  • Safety Toe
  • Water Resistance
  • Value For Money
  • Overview
  • Pros
  • Cons
  • Bottom Line

Best Traction

article image

Keen Targhee II Soho Slip-On Shoe

View price at Amazon
  • $77 to $130
  • 8.7
  • 9
  • 8.5
  • 9
  • 9
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • 8
    • Thick, grippy outsole
    • Slip-on style for convenient use
    • Durable
    • Sustainably sourced leather
    • Flexible and comfortably cushioned
    • Not waterproof
    • No toe protection

Most Comfortable

article image

Skechers Work Bronwood Shoe

View price at Amazon
  • $84 to $200
  • 8.3
  • 9
  • 8
  • 8
  • 8
  • N/A
  • 8
  • 9
    • Comfortably relaxed fit
    • Lightweight, convenient slip-on style
    • Electrical hazard protection
    • Water and stain-resistant upper
    • Flexible, grippy outsole
    • Not completely waterproof
    • No toe protection

Best Design

article image

Ariat Terrain Ease Waterproof Shoe

View price at Amazon
  • $120 to $130
  • 7.8
  • 8
  • 9
  • 8
  • 6
  • N/A
  • 8
  • 8
    • Waterproof
    • Cushioned insole and shock-absorbing midsole
    • Premium construction and materials
    • Relatively lightweight
    • Slip-on style with a flexible neoprene top
    • No safety toes
    • Weak traction

Gardening option

article image

Muck Boot RHS Muckster II Shoe

View price at Amazon
  • $42 to $80
  • 7.8
  • 7.5
  • 8
  • 8.5
  • 7.5
  • N/A
  • 8
  • 7.5
    • Waterproof
    • Minimalist, flexible style
    • Antimicrobial footbed cover
    • Moisture and odor control
    • Endorsement from the Royal Horticultural Society
    • It can feel too snug

Safety Toe Option

article image

Rockport Women’s Trustride Safety Toe Shoe

View price at Amazon
  • $104 to $199
  • 7.3
  • 6
  • 9
  • 6
  • 9
  • 9
  • 5
  • 7
    • Steel toe protection
    • Sleek profile
    • Comfortably cushioned insole with shock absorption
    • Convenient slip-on style with a zipper on top
    • Electrical hazard protection
    • Doesn’t look very durable
    • Some areas are loose, while some are too tight

Product Evaluations

We've worn, tested and evaluated (and photographed!) all the top Slip-On Work Shoes that we recommend. Below are the details!

Best Traction

Keen Targhee II Soho Slip-On Shoe

Image

Material

Leather

Safety Toe

No

Weight

976 grams / 2.15 lbs. / 34.4oz.

Waterproof

No

Shaft Sizes

3 inches

Outsole

KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole

Manufacturer

KEEN

Safety certifications

No

Price range

$77 to $130
Ideal For
  • Hiking and outdoor activities
  • All-day walking or standing
  • Those who want durable slip-on shoes with powerful traction
Price range

$77 to $130

View price at Amazon

Rating

8.7

“Excellent”

Brand Name
9
8.5
9
9
0
0
8

Pros

  • Thick, grippy outsole
  • Slip-on style for convenient use
  • Durable
  • Sustainably sourced leather
  • Flexible and comfortably cushioned

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • No toe protection

The Keen Targhee II Soho Slip-On Shoe looked like a hybrid of a slip-on shoe and hiking footwear, showcasing a thick outsole delivering superior traction for better stability on challenging surfaces.

We liked the durable design that’s sturdy enough to last long, even with heavy use.

The slip-on style offered superior convenience, with a gusseted section that widened the opening enough to let the foot slip in comfortably and fuss-free.

The flexible structure allowed comfortable foot motion for better mobility on the job.

We’re fans of the sustainably sourced leather as it allowed us to enjoy an environmentally friendly product that performed quite well.

Unique Features

Sole

The exclusive KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole had a thick structure featuring multi-directional lugs, which delivered maximum traction.

We had no problems using the shoes outdoors, where we walked stably, even in slippery or uneven ground conditions.

Fit

The shoe fit snugly and offer better security while walking, which we appreciated even more while navigating tricky surfaces.

We noted that the toe box still had enough room to allow the toes to spread out comfortably, even with the snug fit.

The EVA footbed followed the foot’s shape for strong arch support, while a foamy softness cradled the heel for superior comfort all day.

Build

This shoe stood out with an impressive design, looking like a cross between a slip-on shoe and a hiking shoe.

It uses leather tanned with environmentally sound practices from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group.

We liked how the gussets on top made the shoe easier to slip on without discomfort. Meanwhile, the Eco Anti-Odor enhancement kept the shoe fresher for much longer.

However, this shoe is unsuitable for harsh or wet surroundings without safety toes and waterproofing.

Summary

The Keen Targhee II Soho Slip-On Shoe excelled with a durable yet convenient slip-on design which also looked a lot like a hiking shoe, featuring a very grippy outsole, comfortable cushioning, and sustainably sourced leather.


Most Comfortable

Skechers Work Bronwood Shoe

Image

Material

Leather and synthetic

Type of Toe

Soft Toe

Weight

2.56lb / 1.16kg / 40.96oz

Waterproof

No

Shaft Sizes

3 inches

Outsole

Slip-resistant rubber outsole

Shoe type

Slip-on

Manufacturer

Skechers

Safety certifications

No

Price range

$84.71 to $200.00
Ideal For
  • Food service professionals and working in other service-related jobs
  • Those who prefer lightweight and flexible work shoes
  • People who work in settings that require electrical hazard protection
Price range

$84.71 to $200.00

View price at Amazon

Rating

8.3

“Excellent”

Brand Name
9
8
8
8
0
8
9

Pros

  • Comfortably relaxed fit
  • Lightweight, convenient slip-on style
  • Electrical hazard protection
  • Water and stain-resistant upper
  • Flexible, grippy outsole

Cons

  • Not completely waterproof
  • No toe protection

The Skechers Work Bronwood Shoe is designed to bring all-day foot comfort and stability for the longest shifts.

We loved the memory foam insole cushioning the foot against the impact of continuous walking.

The relaxed fit allowed comfortable toe spreading and prevented foot cramps from setting in.

The lightweight structure made walking and standing for hours a lot more comfortable since we didn’t need to carry around extremely heavy footwear.

We’re impressed with the flexible sole that enabled a wider range of foot motion while delivering strong slip resistance for enhanced stability on challenging surfaces.

The stain- and water-resistant upper protected against wetness and helped maintain the shoe’s aesthetics for longer.

Meanwhile, the electrical hazard protection offered a secondary layer of safety against electric shock in dry conditions.

Unique Features

Sole

The slip-resistant outsole felt very grippy, enabling us to walk confidently over tricky surfaces without losing balance.

We discovered that the sole was also flexible, making it much easier to walk comfortably as the sole instantly flexed along with each step.

Fit

The relaxed fit contributed to the shoe’s comfort level, allowing the toes to spread naturally to prevent cramping.

The side gussets stretched the opening better to comfortably welcome the foot’s entry.

We loved the memory foam insole that easily conformed to the foot’s shape, offering personalized comfort as it relieved pressure spots from within the shoe.

Build

The shoe’s lightweight structure helped make walking easier to manage over long periods.

We just wished it had safety toes and waterproof materials to be used in more challenging conditions.

We appreciated the electrical hazard-safe design that greatly minimized the threat of electrocution in case of accidental contact with electrically charged objects.

The stain- and water-resistant upper kept the foot safe against accidental spills while maintaining the shoe’s appearance for much longer.

Summary

The Skechers Work Bronwood Shoe is an exceptionally comfortable choice featuring a lightweight structure with a relaxed fit, a flexible sole with strong slip resistance, electrical hazard protection, memory foam cushioning, and an upper that’s water- and stain-resistant.


Best Design

Ariat Terrain Ease Waterproof Shoe

Image

Material

Full-grain leather and neoprene

Safety Toe

No

Weight

964 grams / 34oz / 2.13lbs

Waterproof

Yes

Shaft Sizes

4 inches

Outsole

Duratread

Manufacturer

Ariat

Safety certifications

No

Price range

$120 to $130
Ideal For
  • Wet work conditions
  • Those who are after lightweight slip-on work shoes
  • Jobs that involve long hours of walking or standing
Price Range

$120 to $130

View price at Amazon

Rating

7.8

“Excellent”

Brand Name
8
9
8
6
0
8
8

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Cushioned insole and shock-absorbing midsole
  • Premium construction and materials
  • Relatively lightweight
  • Slip-on style with a flexible neoprene top

Cons

  • No safety toes
  • Weak traction

The Ariat Terrain Ease Waterproof Shoe’s design excelled not only appearance-wise but in performance as well. It looked and felt very well-made, and it was obvious that every detail – including the stitching – involved extra effort.

We especially liked the Waterproof PRO construction sealing out liquids which offered superior protection, maintaining comfortable foot dryness in wet surroundings.

The relatively lightweight structure didn’t feel as bulky as other footwear with similar designs.

The slip-on design was made much easier to put on and off because of the neoprene section on top.

This part stretched to accommodate the foot’s entry and exit without discomfort.

We liked the All-Day Cushioning insole that delivered enough padding and support for enhanced foot comfort throughout the day.

Unique Features

Sole

The shoe’s Duratread sole stood out with a thick, aggressive structure that also offered lasting durability and strength. We liked the raised heel that held on more firmly on ladder rungs and stirrups for improved safety.

However, we discovered that the outsole didn’t have strong traction, so we don’t recommend this shoe for workplaces with extremely slippery or uneven ground conditions.

Fit

The shoe had a regular fit that felt comfortably snug with thick socks.

For those who prefer a more relaxed fit, we suggest avoiding thick socks to leave more room for the toes to spread naturally.

We appreciated the stretchable neoprene section and the pull tabs on top, as these components made the shoe even easier to slip into and out of. Meanwhile, the All-Day Cushioning insole delivered the cushioning and support needed for improved foot comfort for hours.

Build

The shoe had a bold profile, so we were surprised to discover it had a lightweight feel. Even the thick outsole didn’t feel too bulky even with long hours of shoe-wearing.

We liked the EVA midsole’s shock-absorbing action, soaking up and dissipating the impact of walking without adding a lot to the overall weight.

Overlays in the heel and toe sections offered reinforcement against abrasion and premature damage.

This shoe didn’t have safety toe caps, so it’s not ideal for work conditions with impact and compression threats.

Summary

The Ariat Terrain Ease Waterproof Shoe’s superb design showcases durable waterproof construction that’s surprisingly lightweight, a thick and strong outsole, comfortable cushioning and shock absorption, and a convenient slip-on profile with flexible neoprene on top.


Gardening option

Muck Boot RHS Muckster II Shoe

Image

Material

Rubber and neoprene

Safety Toe

No

Weight

1077 grams / 2.37 lbs / 38 oz

Waterproof

Yes

Outsole

Rubber

Manufacturer

Muckster

Safety certifications

No

Price range

$42 to $80
Ideal For
  • Gardening and light outdoor tasks
  • Wet indoor or outdoor environments
  • Those who prefer snug-fitting gardening shoes
Price range

$42 to $80

View price at Amazon

Rating

7.8

“Excellent”

Brand Name
7.5
8
8.5
7.5
0
8
7.5

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Minimalist, flexible style
  • Antimicrobial footbed cover
  • Moisture and odor control
  • Endorsement from the Royal Horticultural Society

Cons

  • It can feel too snug

The Muck Boot RHS Muckster II Shoe is the only gardening footwear to achieve an endorsement from the Royal Horticultural Society.

We discovered its waterproof design performed remarkably well for gardening and other light outdoor activities in wet conditions.

It had a low-key design that’s not stylish but still blends discreetly with different attire.

We loved the shoe’s flexible construction, with a neoprene section on top stretching to accommodate the foot as it enters for superior comfort.

A pull tab also helped make the shoe-wearing process more convenient without pulling on the neoprene layer.

We appreciated the antimicrobial treatment and the odor and moisture-control systems that worked together to maintain a fresh foot feeling for much longer.

Unique Features

Sole

The rubber outsole had a flexible structure that enabled natural foot movements without getting in the way of comfort.

It shed dirt quickly, preventing mud from accumulating so that the shoe didn’t become too heavy with the build-up.

The outsole had good traction to promote secure footing on wet surfaces.

However, it was still not grippy enough to ensure safe walking in extremely slippery or unstable ground conditions.

Fit

Available in half-size options, we recommend those who use half-sizes in their footwear choose the next bigger size. This is because the shoe can feel too snug so upsizing can leave more space for comfort.

Getting one whole size up can achieve a more relaxed fit for better comfort.

However, doing so can also compromise foot stability over uneven surfaces.

Build

The waterproof construction sealed out liquids in wet conditions.

We noted that some wetness can seep in from the top since the neoprene section isn’t waterproof.

The minimalist design was easily paired with various outfits, with flexibility that offered comfortable and convenient use.

We were impressed that the shoe also had an antimicrobial cover in the footbed and moisture and odor control for lasting foot freshness.

Summary

The Muck Boot RHS Muckster II Shoe performed well in the garden and for other light outdoor tasks, with noteworthy features including waterproof construction, a flexible structure with a minimalist look, stretchable neoprene section, antimicrobial treatment, odor control, and moisture management.


Safety Toe Option

Rockport Women’s Trustride Safety Toe Shoe

Image

Material

Leather

Type of Toe

Yes (steel toe)

Weight

1.75lb / 0.794kg / 28.01oz

Waterproof

No

Shaft Sizes

3 inches

Outsole

Rubber

Boot type

Heavy-Duty

Manufacturer

Rockport

Safety certifications

Yes

Price range

$104.99 to $199.00
Ideal For
  • People who prefer low-profile safety shoes
  • Hazardous work environments that require steel-toed work shoes
  • Those who are after slip-on work shoes with safety features
Price range

$104.99 to $199.00

View price at Amazon

Rating

7.3

““Excellent””

Brand Name
6
9
6
9
9
5
7

Pros

  • Steel toe protection
  • Sleek profile
  • Comfortably cushioned insole with shock absorption
  • Convenient slip-on style with a zipper on top
  • Electrical hazard protection

Cons

  • Doesn’t look very durable
  • Some areas are loose, while some are too tight

The Rockport Women’s Trustride Safety Toe Shoe offered enhanced foot protection without the extreme bulk. The slip-on style had a sleek look that could be maximized even off the job.

We found it impressive how the streamlined profile concealed steel toe caps, so the shoe didn’t have the heavy industrial look of other safety toe footwear.

Meanwhile, the zipper on top offered an option to make the opening wider for easier and more comfortable foot entry and exit. Finally, the steel toe caps made the shoe suitable for work areas where there are risks of heavy objects falling on the feet.

I liked the comfortably cushioned truTECH footbed that absorbed the shock from walking on uneven ground.

The electrical hazard-safe design delivered extra protection against electrocution in dry conditions.

Unique Features

Sole

The rubber outsole came with a powerful grip even if it didn’t have large treads.

The exceptional traction made walking much safer and easier to manage, even on extremely slick and unstable surfaces.

We also loved the flexibility of the sole, which enabled more effortless walking without compromising stability and the foot’s natural motion.

Fit

The shoe had a weird fit that caused discomfort, especially after long hours of walking or standing.

We felt tightness in the toe box, but the ankle area felt strangely loose.

Going down a size may make the ankle more secure but result in even more pinching around the toes. Thankfully, the comfortably padded insole made the experience more comfortable with great softness and shock absorption.

We appreciated the addition of a zipper on top, allowing the foot to go in and out through an opening that can be widened as needed.

Build

We’re fans of the shoe’s sleek profile that’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on and off the job. In addition, the steel toe caps shielded the toes against dangerous compression and impact in hazardous work areas.

The electrical hazard protection significantly reduced the threat of electric shock with unintended exposure to electrically energized items.

Summary

The Rockport Women’s Trustride Safety Toe Shoe showcased a versatile, streamlined profile that discreetly housed protective steel toe caps, electrical hazard protection, and a shock-absorbing insole, all in a convenient slip-on structure.


Comparison Table

ProductUpper MaterialWeight LevelSafety Toe
Keen Targhee II Soho Slip-On ShoeLeatherMediumNo
Skechers Work Bronwood ShoeLeather and syntheticLightweightNo
Ariat Terrain Ease Waterproof ShoeLeather and neopreneLightweightNo
Muck Boot RHS Muckster II ShoeRubber and neopreneMediumNo
Rockport Women’s Trustride Safety Toe ShoeLeatherMediumYes (steel)

Selection Methodology

The products included in this list have been selected after our team carefully assessed the qualities that need to be present in top slip-on work shoes.

Comfortable – High-quality slip-on work shoes are designed to keep the feet comfortable throughout long work hours. They typically have sufficient cushioning inside to soften the impact of walking and can be enhanced with shock-absorbing components to prevent fatigue. These shoes are also fairly flexible to make walking comfortable and almost effortless.

Convenient use – Those who want convenient-to-use footwear often choose slip-on work shoes because they’re faster to put on and take off than lace-up styles. Since the style doesn’t include laces, the shoes can be worn and removed quickly.

Lightweight – The top slip-on work shoes come in low-cut designs that don’t weigh as much as their taller counterparts. These shoes often have streamlined profiles that perform well in the workplace but don’t feel bulky enough to cause discomfort. Without their reduced weight, slip-on work shoes make walking for prolonged periods easier to manage comfortably.

Supportive, grippy outsoles – The best slip-on work shoes are equipped with outsoles that can support the feet throughout the workday. These outsoles also firmly grip most surfaces, ensuring better stability and safety while walking.

Durable – Premium-quality slip-on work shoes have durable structures that fight premature damage even with heavy use. As a result, they perform well in the work environments for which they’re intended and can be relied on to perform well and offer multiple functional and comfort benefits for a long time.

Conclusion

Slip-on work shoes are designed to be put on and taken off with complete ease, making them more convenient to use than work shoes with lace-up styles. Their hassle-free use makes them ideal for those who want to cut the time spent preparing and fiddling with footwear, especially at the start of a busy workday. The top 3 products in the list – the Keen Targhee II Soho Slip-On Shoe, Skechers Work Bronwood Shoe, and Ariat Terrain Ease Waterproof Shoe – all have comfortable structures to make walking more enjoyable (or more bearable) even after long hours. They also have durable and often lightweight designs and high-traction outsoles to keep up with various work environments and tasks.

FAQs

Do all high-quality slip-on work shoes have plain uppers?
Not always. Some of them have additional elements on the upper for improved function, such as small zippers or gusseted sections.
Are slip-on work shoes with safety toes as heavy as work boots?
Not necessarily. For example, the Rockport Women’s Trustride Safety Toe Shoe has steel toe caps but it’s relatively lightweight, with a weight level that’s like slip-on work shoes without safety toes.
Can slip-on work shoes be used in hazardous environments?
It depends on the shoes’ features. Those with protective enhancements such as safety toes, puncture-resistant soles, and electrical hazard protection are suitable for harsh conditions.
How do side gussets help with slip-on work shoes’ performance?
Side gussets stretch to make the shoes’ opening wider, allowing the feet to enter more comfortably. They can also welcome more air to promote good ventilation inside the shoes, preventing overheating and excessive sweating.

Luke Davis

Luke is the lead author on WorkWear.org. He has a vast experience in construction engineering and project management in California and Texas, where he had the chance to put to test a wide range of safety boots and PPE. Outside work, Luke is an avid hiker and not surprisingly a DIY fanatic!