16 slip-on shoes for busy mamas this summer

If you’ve yet to hear of Utah-based shoe brand Kizik, listen up. These were made with you in mind. Each style is made with a “spring back” heel to go on completely hands-free. The options span from athletic to casual, but we’re partial to this Stan Smith-esque sneak that can pair with everything from shorts to dresses. (Want to see the tech in action? The demonstration video is definitely worth a watch!)

The aloha-inspired lifestyle brand Olukai fittingly has practical comfort on lock. It’s really hard to pick a favorite from the line, but I’ve been living in the buttery soft leather Pehuea Lī ‘Ili for weeks because they literally go with everything. Like the rest of the line, they’re handcrafted with super comfy arch support and an anatomical footbed which required absolutely zero breaking in. (I can’t remember the last time a pair of sneakers didn’t hobble my feet in some way for the first few wears.) If you’re not convinced yet, I haven’t even gotten to my favorite part! See that diagonal seam that the heel? IT FOLDS DOWN TO MAKE THEM SLIP ONS. Mind blown.

While I love the look of iconic Converse hi tops, they’re arguably one of the most annoying shoes to put on. For a still classic look, the best-selling Converse Chuck Taylor slip-on shoes have a stretchy back that allows you to pull them on in seconds. Fixed no-tie shoelaces are a cute and casual look that makes this lightweight shoe one of Converse’s most popular.

One of Nike’s most innovative designs yet, the Go FlyEase sneakers are made with a heel that bends fully backward to make stepping in and out completely hands-free. And while anyone can wear them, they’re a favorite for pregnant mamas when bending down isn’t really an option. They’re also great for running, but listen. If the only running you do in these is errands while looking cute, we won’t tell on you.

Can you even make a list of slip on shoes without Vans? The icon of SoCal cool, they’re comfortable, versatile and literally never go out of style. Of course they come in tons of colors and prints but we’re partial to the ever-popular Checkerboard.

If the shoe you’re really after is a slipper in disguise, these are the kicks for you. The inside is super soft and cozy while the quilted upper is treated with TevaRAPID RESIST protective coating to keep them dry even in damp grass. Too much work to tug them on? No problem. The heel collapses down for quick dashes out of the house.

With their signature capped toe and super comfy fit, Cariuma’s sustainable sneakers are at the top of our list these days. (Chances are, you’ve seen the cult-favorite Oca Lows left and right by now!) If you’d rather skip the laces, the Ibi slip on is a warm weather favorite thanks to the super breathable bamboo fabric and cushy cork memory foam insole. They come in a handful of neutral colors but we’re partial to this sunny yellow which feel like a dose of happy.

If you don’t have a pair of Birks in you rotation, do you even mom? Of course the OG two-strap style is a go-to, but if you want something a little more refined, this season’s Gizeh Big Buckle style is a real stunner. With a shiny black leather that goes with everything and chunky gold hardware that elevates them even more, it’s hard to go wrong here.

One of Everlane’s most popular products, the Day Glove is made of soft leather that molds to your foot for a “perfect, custom fit”. This is the kind of versatile shoe that you can wear to the playground and then out to dinner that night. Love that comfy rubber sole and cushioned insole, too!

Is there a shoe more summery than a cotton espadrille? I think not. This pair from Soludos–a brand that’s never made a shoe I didn’t love–isn’t just uber-comfy. Unlike other espadrilles, these feature a rubber sole to keep you moving and grooving without the fear of wiping out. They’re also made from recycled cotton and jute to check the eco-friendly box as well.

Heels are over. A sensible but still sexy pair of mules can achieve an equally sophisticated look that doesn’t hobble you in 5 seconds flat. One of my faves? The super gorgeous Ama Woven Mule from Nisolo. Not only are they sustainably made from buttery soft leather with a memory foam and shock-absorbing insole, the brand also ensures a living wage to 100% of the people creating products in their factory. What’s more, each product includes a Sustainability Facts Label so you can measure the impact on people and the planet. Now that’s a purchase you can feel good about.

Sustainable, machine-washable Rothy’s are my go-to for feeling stylish and put together while still rocking that much-appreciated at-home comfort. The environmentally-friendly company creates their shoes out of plastic water bottles and prides themselves on their “no break-in” time. You’ll be good to go in seconds after putting them on! This particular style, with its classic silhouette, cushiony insole and grippy nubbed outsole, is the perfect shoe for dashing from the office to soccer practice and (if I’m lucky) right into date night. Are they pricey? Quite. Do they always look brand spankin’ new even when you wear them every single day? Sure do.

Allbirds is another eco-friendly company that makes their footwear out of renewable materials. The highly-rated Tree Breezer flat shoe is machine washable and lightweight with a ribbed collar that conforms to your movements as you go about your day. Perfect for being out and about with the kiddos!

From dewy morning dog walks to gardening or playing in the yard with the kids, the Bodega Clog from SeaVees is completely indispensable. They’ve got the tiniest lip at the back which keeps them from sliding off and a rugged sole which is fantastic in every terrain they’ve carried me through. And the colors are so fun!