Whether in a hotel bathroom or using a public shower at a swimming pool or gym, you don’t have the same amount of control as if you were at home. These showers may have hosted thousands of people, some potentially carrying bacteria and fungi.
These unwanted guests can be brought home, eventually causing infections or diseases such as athlete’s foot, warts or abscesses (1). Wearing the best shower shoes should tremendously reduce the risk of contamination. They’ll keep you and your feet healthy while you enjoy the benefits of a relaxing shower.
Selecting the Best Shower Shoes
Are all shower shoes equal? What are the differences, and what makes the best pairs?
- Material used.
- Comfort level.
- Type of use.
- Style and design.
Material Used
In constant contact with water, soap and shampoo, shower shoes can wear down faster than you’d like. If you want to keep them for years to come, selecting a sturdy material — such as rubber — is critical.
Water-absorbent materials like foam or mesh are generally light but get quickly filled with water. Your feet may slip inside the shoes. They’re also difficult to dry and therefore more prone to fungal and bacterial growth.
The material used will also impact to what extent your feet are being protected. Some shoes are made with antimicrobial compounds, fighting potential fungi and bacteria before they can harm you.
Slip-resistant models are equally important. They allow you to feel safe and stable in any wet environment, such as a shower.
Comfort Level
Although most may think this is a luxury, wearing comfortable shoes is essential. Not only will it allow for a more pleasant shower experience, but it’ll also prevent blisters walking to and from the shower. This might be even more important when using the shoes for purposes other than showering.
Type of Use
Before committing to a pair, think about the scenarios you’re going to use them in. Are you planning on using them exclusively for showering? How about around swimming pools, at the beach, in the city or your garden?
Products that have multiple uses can save money in the long run. You’ll also get to free some space in your closet.
Style and Design
While the design might not matter if you solely wear them in the shower, style could become a deal-breaker when taken outside of the shower.
If you need to wear your shower shoes while surfing or paddleboarding, closed water shoes might be best. When planning to take them on vacation, however, a flip-flop style might be more convenient. Here are the most common shapes:
- Flip-flops: These casual shoes come with a loose fit and a string passing between the first and second toe. Being lightweight, they’re generally easy to carry.
- Sliders: Composed of a sole and a strap crossing the foot. These shoes are typically comfortable to wear and simple to put on and remove.
- Water shoes: Covering most of the foot, they provide the best protection and slip-resistance. For this reason, they’re often used for other purposes, such as water sports. Keep in mind, however, that they generally take more effort to put on.
- Clogs: These are enclosed at the front, with an open back. They often come with extra cushioning for added comfort. Some models even include a back strap for more convenience.
- Holes: Look out for shower shoes that have tiny holes in the sole. They’re designed specifically for showers and to drain water out, preventing a slippery inner shoe.
The Best Shower Shoes of 2021
To help you choose from an endless number of shower shoes, we’ve created a list of the best shower shoes. We’ve looked at how safe they are while showering, but we also considered comfort, style, reviews, and versatility.
1. Under Armour Men's Locker Slide Shoe
These shower shoes are popular since they’re specifically designed for shower use. Featuring five holes inside the soles — three at the front and two at the back — they let the water out as you shower.
Besides the small openings, the entire shoe, including the outsole and footbed, is designed to drain water out. This feature makes the shoes lighter when walking. Without a large amount of water gathering inside, you’re also less likely to slip and fall.
Made of EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) material, they’re sturdy and quick to dry (2). Because they don’t gather moisture, mold or fungi growth shouldn’t be an issue.
The dark-colored, classic design is discreet and doesn’t attract unwanted attention. Reviewers with high feet arches enjoy the comfort this style provides. It’s available in both black and navy blue shades to fit all tastes.
- Holes in the sole.
- Designed to drain water.
- Quick to dry.
- Discreet design.
- Users wished there was more sole cushioning.
2. Vertico Shower and Poolside Sport Sandal
Although this may not be the most fashionable style, this pair will protect your feet from harmful bacteria. The sole is made with durable rubber that should last for years. It’s designed with a strong floor grip to avoid accidents.
The closed-cell EVA inner layer adds comfort to the shoe. It’s made with foam-like material, giving the insole a soft and comfy feeling. In addition to comfort, reviewers appreciate that, unlike other products, this pair isn’t noisy when walking.
This slider features an open toe and a partially open strap. This particular design is meant to let water freely slide in and out of the shoe. In addition, it also makes the drying process faster.
Lightweight and easy to transport, one shoe will nicely fit inside the other one to save space when stored.
- Economical.
- Soft and comfortable insole.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Classic style.
- The front strap can be too loose for some users.
3. Adidas Men's Adilette Slide Sandal
Finding shower shoes available in a broad range of sizes and styles, while maintaining quality standards, isn’t always easy. These shoes should accommodate an entire family, from young kids to teenagers, men and women.
They’re available in sizes ranging from 3–15, which should be suitable for most families. On top of that, they come in various styles to fit all tastes. You’ll be able to choose from classic black to green, coral, orange or even light pink colors.
This pair of Adidas shoes comes with the brand’s reputation of quality; some users report wearing the same pair for 15 years. The extra-large strap allows a tight fit and proper foot positioning.
It’s made with leather-looking synthetic material — polyurethane. This gives the shoe a high-end look while being durable and water-resistant.
- Available in a wide range of sizes.
- Many colors to choose from.
- High-end look.
- Durable.
- Can take some time to break the shoes in.
4. Crocs Women's Swiftwater Sandal
If you’re looking for a pair to wear in the shower but also in the city, this stylish model should satisfy you. These cute water shoes are lightweight and comfortable to wear. Besides shower use, they can be worn out and about without making you look like you’re heading to the beach.
This Crocs’ product doesn’t have the regular closed-toe shape this brand is famous for. Instead, it’s wide open, with only three thin straps running over the front shoe. This shape secures the foot inside while allowing a sleek and classy design, matching most outfits.
Fashionistas, do not fear! This model is available in 13 different colors. Whichever color your outfit is, you should be able to find a matching shade!
- Available in 13 colors.
- Elegant design; suitable for city-wear.
- Comfortable.
- Easy to put on and remove.
- Straps aren’t adjustable.
5. Quick-Drying Shower Sandals
Reviewers seemed thrilled about these shoes’ water-drain ability and drying speed. After a shower, they wear them around the house or promptly pack them after a shower at the gym.
Although this pair isn’t necessarily suited for outdoor use, it combines the perfect style, colors, and features for home or public shower use. Available in various pastel colors — blue, pink, grey — as well as navy blue, they should match most bathroom outfits.
The sole is covered with multiple holes and is designed explicitly for shower use, since it allows water to drain out. Because the material dries quickly, it makes this pair ideal for everyday use, and less prone to fungal growth.
Although simple, the shoe features arch support for added comfort. The material under the shoe is made of EVA and anti-slip components, offering both durability and safety.
- Good water drainage.
- Anti-slip material.
- Arch support.
- Flexible and durable sole.
- Takes up more space than other models.
6. Xunlong Bathroom Shower Slippers
If comfort is your primary deciding factor, these shoes won’t disappoint you. They’re designed with ultimate relaxation and comfort in mind. The sole is covered with soft cushions to provide a massage-like experience in your shower.
The elasticity of the EVA material offers the needed cushioning for a smooth feeling. More than shower shoes, they may become your dedicated home-use pair. You’ll find colors suitable for both genders — from grey, black, and blue, to pink, yellow or purple shades.
This model is both safe and pleasant to walk with, with holes to drain water out, making the shoe lighter and easier to use. On the other hand, the outer layer is covered with slip-resistant material making it stable on wet surfaces.
The entire shoe is flexible and malleable enough to be twisted to remove excess water or fit inside a backpack.
- Massage-like feeling.
- Flexible material.
- Suitable for both genders.
- Non-slip material.
- Difficult to clean.
7. Clapzovr Men's Sandal Shower Water Shoes
This pair offers added protection by covering your entire foot. It provides a snug but comfortable fit, and is perfectly suited for showers and water activities.
The enclosed design limits the risk of your foot slipping inside the shoe or losing it while walking. It also comes with holes covering the entire material, allowing the water to find its way out, and preventing it from accumulating inside. In addition, after the shower is over, the holes permit good airflow, easing the drying process.
The breathable PVC material prevents moisture from accumulating, limiting the risk of mold and bacterial development. The sole itself is designed to provide a strong grip and avoid dangerous falls.
These versatile shoes can also be used outside of your shower. The sole offers the needed cushioning to go on walks by a beach or lake.
- Comes in six fashionable colors.
- Protects the entire foot.
- Made of breathable PVC material.
- Holes to drain water.
- Can take a long time to put on and remove.
8. Crocs Women's Kadee Li Flip-Flop
This flip-flop is primarily designed for women and is available in sizes from 4 to 11. Offered in four colors — black, navy blue, raspberry, and flame — you should find one fitting your taste and style.
These Crocs combine style and quality. The straps are slim, and provide an elegant look, making them ideal for both shower and outdoor use. The grips under the sole are an important safety feature to help you keep balanced in a shower or on any wet surface.
The foam cushioning also improves the comfort. Whether for showering, going for a walk, strolling around a swimming pool or at the beach, they can be used on any occasion. They’ll even float if dropped in water.
Being lightweight, they can be easily carried in a backpack to a gym or other public facilities. Compared to heavier models, this makes them simpler and more convenient to walk in.
- Fashionable colors.
- Versatile use.
- Comfortable to wear.
- Strong grip.
- Some users reported damage when exposed to direct sunlight.
9. Secure Slip-Resistant Shower Shoes
As we become older, falls inside a bathroom tend to become more common, with potentially dangerous outcomes (3). If you’ve previously fallen inside a shower, you’ll appreciate the extra slip-resistance of this shoe.
These popular Secure shoes have been tested to resist any slippery surfaces. As a result, they’re used in hospitals and nurseries. Slip-resistant test results are even available to download if needed.
Equally important, these shoes are simple to use for all ages. The high back prevents the shoe from sliding off when wet, while the attached strip allows easy and quick use.
They’re also built to be extremely comfortable. The shoe contains an upper layer made of mesh that shouldn’t irritate the skin. What’s more, the front and back of the shoe don’t come with inner seams to avoid blisters.
Available in three different sizes and a uniform white color, they should suit both genders.
- Simple to use and wear.
- Extra slip-resistant.
- Unisex.
- 90-day warranty.
- May take longer to dry.
10. VIFUUR Watersports Shoes
If you’re afraid of fungi and germs in showers, these shoes should provide the best protection. The closed design will protect your feet from all angles, while the smooth and flexible material allows for comfy wear.
Although the shoes provide a tight fit, you shouldn’t have trouble removing them. The large strip at the back of the shoe makes it easy to take off, even when wet. When walking outside or swimming, it can also prevent injuries from sharp rocks or debris.
It comes in an endless number of fashionable designs. From underwater scenes to skyscrapers, rainbows or even galaxy designs, you can choose from classic, funky or trendy styles.
If space is an issue, this shoe can fold and roll to fit within the palm of a hand, making it one of the most portable options available.
- Creative designs.
- High protection level.
- Compact and portable.
- Thick sole.
- Sizes are smaller than expected.
Wrapping Up
Selecting the best shower shoes for your needs is rather simple, yet the number of choices can make the process seem overwhelming. The first element to consider is how you’ll be using the shoes. If you’re going to wear them strictly while showering, ensure that the soles have holes to let the water drain.
Anti-microbial and slip-resistant materials are also important features to keep in mind. When planning to use the shoes for other purposes, look closer at the style, color, and level of foot protection. In all cases, your shower shoes should be comfortable and easy to wear.
