‘I’m a Podiatrist, and These Are the Best Slippers for Pregnancy’
Lower back pain, frequent urination, and a growing belly—there are so many bodily changes that occur during pregnancy. But that's not all. Perhaps the most surprising difference between pregnancy and the non-pregnant life is feet changes. "During pregnancy, it is not uncommon to notice flattening of the foot arches, swelling, an increase in show size, and even ingrown toenails," says Mohammed Rimawi, DPM, a podiatrist based in New York.
The type of footwear you wear both outside and inside your home can help you adapt to these changes, and the easiest (and most comfortable) place to start is slippers for pregnancy (but if you're also looking for the best shoes for pregnancy, we've got a great roundup of expert-vetted products as well—that'll include sneakers and flats for outside).
- Mohammad Rimawi, DPM, podiatrist and reconstructive foot surgeon based in New York City
The best slippers for pregnancy, at a glance:
- Best overall: Birkenstock Zermatt Shearling Slipper, $100
- Best for swelling: Vionic Relax Slippers, $70
- Best for outdoors: Dansko Lucie Wool Slipper, $79
- Most breathable: Oofos Ooahh Slide Sandal, $60
- Best eco-friendly: Kyrgies Molded Sole, $99
- Most adjustable: Vionic Dream Slipper, $40
"Slippers can certainly be of help as they work to mitigate some of the changes associated with pregnancy," Dr. Rimawi says. Before you go strolling, here's a few things he wants you to consider. Since the arches collapse, it "can lead to imbalances and alter the distribution of pressure along the foot, which can lead to pain and injury," he says. To counter these effects, look for slippers with arch support. Feet also tend to balloon during pregnancy, so you want to keep your eye peeled for adjustable or wide-width shoes for any swelling.
The best slippers for pregnancy
No matter how far along you are, you should feel comfortable in your own footsteps. Thus, we tapped a podiatrist for their input and recommendations on the best slippers for pregnancy. Keep scrolling to shop these podiatrist-approved shoes that are supportive and comfy as a cloud.
Best overall
Sizes available: 4-12.5, in half sizes and two different widths
Birkenstocks may be well known for its arch-supportive sandals, but I’m here to inform you that the brand makes great slippers, too. What makes these slippers ideal for pregnancy is the extra wide width, which can come in handy whenever you experience swelling. Recommended by Dr. Rimawi, the Zermatt slippers have an ergonomic footbed to give a helping hand to your arches and cloud-like shearling to keep your toes toasty when cooler temperatures strike. It’s like walking on a cloud.
Colors: 6
Pros
- Ergonomic footbed
- Lined with shearling
- Available in wide widths
Cons
- Expensive
Best for swelling
Sizes available: 5-12
Your feet can finally take a breather with Vionic’s Relax Slippers. Dr. Rimawi approves of these kicks because “they come with an orthotic footbed, an adjustable strap to accommodate different sizing, and are odor resistant.” The Terrycloth footbed provides ultimate comfort and softness, and did we mention… they’re Oprah-approved?
Colors: 7
Pros
- Terrycloth footbed
- Adjustable strap
- Absorbs shock
Cons
- Not ideal for outdoor use
Best for outdoors
Sizes available: 5-12, in half sizes
If you’re an outdoor slipper person, might we recommend Dansko Lucie Wool Slipper? The thick, vinyl sole makes this pair ideal for trekking, no matter if you’re hitting the pavement or hardwood flooring. Also great? The slipper features “Scotchgard protection to minimize stains, a comfortable sole, and built-in arch technology” for days when your arches go low,” explains Dr. Rimawi.
Colors: 7
Pros
- Has thick sole for outdoor use
- Stain-resistant
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not adjustable
Most breathable
Sizes available: 5-16
Oofos Slide Sandal will have your feet saying “Ooahh.” That’s because the foam footbed absorbs shock (the brands claims 37 percent more shock absorption than traditional footwear) and cradles your arches, so you can prevent a collapsed tower. Since the foam is closed-cell designed, the shoe repels water and sweat instantaneously (no more odors). Plus, it boasts an open-toe design, so you can get the most breeze between for your toesies and wear these as summer slippers, too. As Dr. Rimawi says, “they’re made for relaxing.”
Colors: 8
Pros
- Absorbs shock
- Easy to clean
- Odor-resistant
- Breathable
Cons
- May be difficult to put on for some
- Strap may be too tight for people with bunions
Best eco-friendly
Sizes available: 5-14, in half sizes
For an environmentally-friendly step, Kyrgies are handcrafted by local artisans in Kyrgyzstan. Beyond the comfort that they offer, the fibers and fabrics are sustainably woven into each shoe. Each pair offers arch support and a no-slip grip thanks to the veggie-tanned leather sole. Plus, enjoy “an additional layer of cushioning—which makes them very comfortable,” says Dr. Rimawi. This pair is giving foot-fives to you and the environment.
Colors: 4
Pros
- Has arch support
- Sustainably made
- Comfortable
Cons
- Expensive
Most adjustable
Originally $70, now $40
With all the changes that are occurring during pregnancy, you’re going to need an adjustable pair and Vionic Dream Slipper is a Dr. Rimawi recommendation. Featuring adjustable straps and a washable terry cloth surrounding the shoe, this slipper is comfy as it is stylish. The EVA midsole absorbs shock and the terry material reduces odors, so you can stroll minus the funky smells and pain.
Sizes available: 5-10, in half sizes
Colors: 3
Pros
- Odor-resistant
- Absorbs shock
- Adjustable
Cons
- Arch area may be too high for some
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