I’m currently on a shopping quest for the Holy Grail of mama footwear: women’s slip on shoes. One that’s comfortable, looks good and, most importantly, allows you to put on in seconds. Let’s face it, we all know getting out the door with a small child is no easy feat, and by the time you’ve gotten your little one (or multiple little ones) ready to venture out into the world, the last thing you want to do is lean over and tie your own laces. And if you’re pregnant? That’s a big “no thanks.”

Listen, motherhood is a million feelings all wrapped into one, but one thing I think we can all agree on is the search for products and hacks that help make mom life easier. When it comes to exiting your home with small children, enter mom shoes. No, we’re not talking about those hideous mall walker kicks. You’re not there yet. (And, bless you. You never will be. You’re cooler than that and we know it.) In our opinion the best shoes for mom are comfortable, stylish and, most importantly, easy to put on. And the thing is, there are tons of amazing options that fit the bill. Whether you’re hitting the playground, taking a much-needed “me time” walk or dinner out with friends, there’s a mom shoe for the job.

Ready to be active in less time? Here’s a roundup of Motherly staff picks and high-rated slip-on shoes for women.

For active outings, check out these slip-on sneakers:

Sorel Kinetic Impact Lace Sneaker

Sorel

Kinetic Impact Lace Sneaker

$145

If you’re looking for the most comfortable and stylish sneaker you’ll ever wear, just stop your search here. (I mean, please. Read to the end, but just scroll back up after you’re done.) First of all, I’m so here for the futuristic athletic vibe. Am I starring in Bladerunner? Maybe. Second, they’re super supportive with a chunky foam tread that feels like walking on a cloud. The mesh upper is super breathable, so much so that even after I’ve completely worn out my first pair they do not stink in the least. I’m not usually the kind of person to buy the same thing twice, but I’ve come to the conclusion you can’t do any better than these bad boys. The only thing I’m stuck on is which color to buy. Sorels for LIFE.

Kizik Vegas

Kizik

Vegas

$129

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!)

black-slip-on-shoe

OluKai Pehuea

OluKai Pehuea Lī ‘Ili Women's Leather Sneakers

$120

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.

Chuck Taylor Slip Motherly

Chuck Taylor

Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline Slip

$60

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.

Nike Go FlyEase

Nike

Go FlyEase

$125

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.

Vans Checkerboard Classic Motherly

Vans

Vans Checkerboard Classic Slip-on Shoes

$60

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.

 

Teva ReEmber

Teva

ReEmber

$80

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.

Cariuma Ibi Slip On

Cariuma

Ibi Slip On

$110

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.

For a sleeker look, these slip-ons don't sacrifice comfort for style.

Birkenstock Gizeh Big Buckle High Shine

Birkenstock

Gizeh Big Buckle

$160

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.

Everlane Women's Day Glove

Everlane

Everlane Italian Leather Day Glove

$135

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!

Soludos Dali Espadrille

Soludos

Dali Espadrille

$75

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.

Nisolo Woven Leather Mule

Nisolo

Ama Woven Mule

$180

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.

Rothy's The Point II

Rothy's

The Point II

$145.00

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.

AllbirdsWomenTreeBreezers Motherly

Allbirds

Allbirds Women's Tree Breezers

$100

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!

Seevees Bodega Clogs

SeaVees

Bodega Clogs

$90

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!

BirdiesTheHeronFlats Motherly

Birdies

Birdies The Heron Flats

$ 120.00

Okay, here’s where I admit that I first heard of Birdies because I read somewhere that they’re a favorite of Meghan Markle’s. They’ve been on my radar ever since, but now that’s mostly because of their sleek look and dual-layer high-density memory foam. Plus, now that they’ve branched out into seasonal looks, this chevron pattern for summer would look great with just about any outfit. I’m a fan!

A version of this story was published July 22, 2021. It has been updated.