The Best Slippers Aren’t Uggs
Shearling wool slippers are the real deal: hygge for your feet. Two years ago, when I got tired of buying UGG slippers that wore out too fast, I embarked on a journey to find the ultimate in cozy and affordable footwear. I tried no less than 15 pairs. I wore them for months at a time.
In preparation for the Winter/Hygge season, I have also converted most of the Evaluated team to these soft, comfortable shearling slippers. Some of them may actually be wearing them on the school run nowadays, but we are no longer judging them. Whether or not it’s winter, I’m going to be rocking my shearling wool slippers too.... whenever I can get away with it.
The Best Shearling Slippers Aren’t UGG Brand.
We have had various members of our team test out slippers, and our favorite kind are shearling slippers. I know. Shearling is a little pricier, but we think these are the best and (spoiler!!) you absolutely don’t have to pay UGG prices to get a quality pair that will last. I've bought five pairs of the classic UGG Coquette slipper only to have them wear out faster than the cheaper brand.
You can wear Shearling Year-Round in most climates!
When I was in southern California for 2 weeks for a retreat, I actually had to order a “back-up” pair off Amazon because I missed them SO much. I don’t always like to go barefoot and somehow manage to stub my toe constantly. Whether it’s part of the work from home uniform dress code or something soothing to slip your feet into after a day at the office, these will keep your feet safe, dry, and comfortable. I think the only place I didn't enjoy wearing these was on a trip to the Caribbean.
Why Shearling Is Best:
Shearling is a natural fiber that’s warm, comfortable, and durable. It’s lightweight and great to wear for long periods of time, as it offers both warmth and breathability, it wicks away moisture (your feet sweat, a LOT) and keeps things fresher, longer. It is made from the hide of a sheep that has been tanned and treated to retain the wool on one side, creating a soft, fluffy texture. The wool provides insulation to keep the feet dry and warm, while the leather side is resistant to water and wear. Shearling is also relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. In addition, it is flexible and conforms to the shape of the foot, providing a comfortable fit.
Shearling is generally more durable and long-lasting than your average synthetic slipper, making them a better investment than manmade slippers that may wear out quickly.
OUR TESTING PROCESS:
As the main tester and writer who tested the bulk of shearling slippers, I have very stinky feet, but sensitive skin. Shearling or wool is the ONLY material I can wear day in and day out. Wool socks with boots/shoes, and shearling slippers at home. Because I work from home, these are worn for most of the day around the house, sitting at the desk, and on occasional jaunts out to the mailbox or to the garage, so at least 12 hours/day. Each pair was worn for minimum 2 months, or until they showed significant wear.
Of the 15 pairs I tried, only 6 were worth keeping around. One brand (LL Bean) canceled my order after stock issues, and other brands (Dearfoams!) fell apart or were otherwise unsuitable. Below are SLPR, Land's End, Derwent, UGG, FuzzyFoam, and WaySoft.
Other team members have also tried UGG, generic brands on Amazon, as well as the favorite FuzzyFoams.
Evaluated is reader-supported, so this post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on our links to make a purchase, we may make a commission at no cost to you.
The Best shearling slippers:
Our favorite slippers are affordable, readily available online, and did not wear out in the heels. These are the FuzzyFoams, the WaySoft, and Derwent slipper. The WaySoft is almost identical to the UGG Coquette, but at nearly half the price, it is a much better value with a very similar sole.
The Fuzzyfoams have a softer sole but the shearling stayed plush for longer and the soles offer plenty of traction.
Derwent's main drawback for me was the tag on the heel, but after a few days I did not feel it after the slippers had been broken in.
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ADDITIONAL SLIPPERS:
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I ACTUALLY USED TO LOVE UGGS BUT THEY DIDN'T LOVE ME BACK.
FULL DISCLOSURE: Before I decided to branch out and try other brands of shearling slippers other than UGG, I used to be a devotee to the brand and bought at least 5 pairs of the classic Coquette slipper. The same problem always happened within 2-3 months: the wool on the cup of the heel would wear down to the leather.
When I wrote to UGG about the problem, they told me it “only happened with the dyed shearling colors and to try the natural undyed color.” Of course. So I ordered a pair of the natural color of shearling, and surprise- same thing happened. This happened with pairs bought from the UGG store as well as online, so I knew it wasn’t a counterfeit issue either. I tend to like the soles on UGG slippers but for the price tag, they should not wear out so fast!
Shown here is a limited-edition blue pair I ordered from the UGG store online, alongside a pair of my go-to pink FuzzyFoams. Both were worn for the same length of time, and you can see how the UGGs fared.
This style of slipper initially feels snug and tight. They do stretch out a fair amount once you’ve worn them a few days and then they fit just right. Still, pay attention to sizing. For example, the SLPR brand was sized very small, and I would go at least one size up.
Some slippers have tags in them, and most can be removed. My Derwent slippers were perfect except for the sewn-in tag on the heel. After a few days of wear I stopped noticing it, but initially, it was uncomfortable.
Make sure the slippers you are picking out have good traction on the soles. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, traction is critical when wearing this style of slipper. A smooth sole can actually be dangerous.
