Our feet tend to be one of the hottest parts of our body, to make them also one of the sweatiest, and wearing socks can sometimes add to that and make it worse.
However, not wearing socks with individual pairs of shoes can be uncomfortable and even hurt your feet.
Not wearing socks with shoes that weren’t built to be worn without socks can cause things like callouses and blisters. It can also cause your shoes to develop a pretty bad smell in them.
This is why if you do decide that you want to go sockless, it is essential to find a good pair of shoes that will be comfortable to walk around in, protect your feet, and allow them some breathability.
It can be challenging to determine which shoes are the best to wear without socks, though, which is why I’ve narrowed it down for you.
In this article, I will be reviewing the 7 best shoes to wear without socks in 2022, beginning with the pair that I’ve found to be the best, the Keds Women’s Champion Original Canvas shoes.
Best Shoes to Wear Without Socks
1. Keds Women’s Champion Original Canvas
The Keds Women’s Champion Original Canvas shoes are the same iconic design that you probably remember wearing back in high school.
Although this shoe is only offered in one color and design option, that one design is so classic and simple that it goes with just about anything.
These shoes are made of 100% canvas, so they are both lightweight and breathable, which will help to keep your feet cool and dry while you walk around in them.
They also come equipped with a cushiony Ortholite insole to provide you with extra comfort.
These shoes do have laces, so if you have a condition like arthritis that makes it difficult for you to tie shoelaces or have trouble bending over to tie them, then these may not be an excellent option for you and your needs.
They are not a pair of shoes that you can slip on and off very quickly.
Pros
- Cushioned Ortholite insole for added comfort
- Rubber outsole with grippy texture for slip resistance and versatility
- Breathable lining for odor resistance
- Simple, classic design that goes with nearly everything
- Constructed of 100% canvas for a lightweight design that is not chunky or blocky
Cons
- Laces make these shoes not easy to slip on and off
- Only available in white
Overall, these are a breathable, comfortable pair of shoes that have a classic design suitable for all ages and styles; most recommend shoes for the teens.
The canvas material is relatively easy to clean, too, so you don’t have to worry too much about getting them dirty. If you like to see more canvas shoes, check out this review.
2. Easy Spirit Women’s Traveltime Mule
The Easy Spirit Women’s Traveltime Mules are both comfortable and durable to walk around in for an extended period.
They are constructed of real suede or leather depending on the design, meaning that they are built to last through lots of wear and tear.
There are over sixty different color and design options to choose from, meaning that there is a style that will match perfectly with any outfits.
Whether you prefer something more simple and subdued or bold and bright, you are bound to find a pair that suits your style. In fact, it may be hard to choose which one you like best since you have so many options!
These shoes are just as comfortable as they are stylish, too, thanks to their rubber sole and cushioned insole.
Pros
- Made of 100% suede or leather (depending on design) for added durability and quality
- Cushioned insole for added comfort
- Flexible outsole for walking on a variety of terrains
- Rubber sole to absorb shock and provide more comfort
- Easy to slip on and off
- Available in a very wide variety of color and design options
Cons
- Sizing runs a little bit small
- The toe piece has an inexpensive vinyl covering that isn’t as durable as the rest of the shoe
It can sometimes be challenging to find a stylish and comfortable shoe, but this pair of shoes by Easy Spirit delivers just that. You may even find yourself buying more than one pair to match different outfits!
3. UGG Men’s Ascot Slipper
The UGG Men’s Ascot Slipper is a high-quality pair of slippers that have the durability to be worn both in and outdoors.
The warm wool lining will keep your feet both warm even on colder winter days, and the rubber molded soles will keep your feet protected walking around outside.
These are constructed with leather and suede so that they will hold up through a lot of wear and tear. The suede is also water-resistant, meaning that if you’re wearing these slippers outside and it happens to start raining or you accidentally step in a puddle, your feet will be kept dry.
Even though they are a pair of slippers, these shoes are designed to resemble a pair of loafers so that you can dress them up a bit more than the average pair of slippers.
Pros
- Constructed of 100% leather and suede for added durability and quality
- Suede is water resistant to keep your feet dry
- Lined with wool for added warmth and comfort
- Molded rubber sole for added traction and durability
- Classic loafer design
Cons
- Only available in two color options: black and dark brown
- These shoes run a bit small, so you may need to go a size up
This pair of slippers is made from the highest quality materials, making it both comfortable and durable for you to wear inside or outside. You won’t feel too dressed, walking around in public with these on either thanks to their classic loaf design.
4. Vans Slip-on™ Core Classics
The Vans Slip-on™ Core Classics are a comfortable and stylish pair of shoes that come in a wide variety of colors and designs, making them suitable for all styles and genders.
The collar of these shoes is padded so that it won’t rub against the back of your ankle uncomfortably, and the insoles of the shoes are padded as well to provide even more comfort.
These shoes also come equipped with shock absorption, which helps to keep your feet both comfortable and protected when walking around in these shoes all day.
One thing to note is that there isn’t a ton of breathability in these shoes, so they may start to smell after being worn for so long. You can purchase an anti-odor spray to use on these shoes though that should help maintain the odor and keep them smelling fresh.
Pros
- Padded collar and insole for added comfort
- Shock absorption to help protect your feet
- Available in a very wide variety of color and design options
- Classic unisex design
- Signature Vans waffle outsole for comfort and durability
- Easy to slip on and off
Cons
- Shoes tend to develop an odor when worn without socks
- The sizes run a bit small
Vans Slip-on™ Core is an excellent pair of shoes for everyday wear thanks to the wide variety of color and design options, streetwear style, and comfortability. You may need to order a size up though because these shoes tend to run a little small.
Similar: The 7 Excellent Shoes to Wear With Leggings
5. VISCATA Espadrille Flats
The VISCATA Espadrille Flats are the perfect shoe for spring and summer.
These shoes were specifically designed to not wear socks with and mold right to your foot after only a few wears.
They do fit quite snugly when you first get them which can be a bit uncomfortable to walk around in, but once you’ve worn them a few times and broken them in a bit, they will take the shape of your foot and create a nice, comfortable fit thanks to the jute insoles they come equipped with.
These shoes are made of cotton canvas, making them very lightweight and breathable so that your feet stay cool and dry when walking around on hot summer days.
They also have a rubber sole for added durability, although it typically does not hold up for longer than two years at most if you wear the shoes and walk around in them often.
Pros
- Constructed of cotton canvas for added breathability
- Jute insole that molds to your feet for added comfort
- Grippy rubber sole for traction and durability
- Easy to slip on and off
- Stylish design that you can dress up or down
- Available in over 10 color options
Cons
- Typically only hold up for a year or two before giving out and needing to be replaced
- These shoes need to be broke in, so they are tight and slightly uncomfortable when you first get them
These shoes are very lightweight and stylish, so they’re perfect for dressing up or down during warm spring and hot summer months. You may need to replace them after a year or two, but you’ll get good use out of them while you have them.
6. Sorel Women’s Nakiska Slipper
The Sorel Women’s Nakiska Slippers were designed with warmth and comfort in mind. They are lined with warm, soft wool to keep your feet from getting cold, making them perfect for the cooler autumn and winter months.
These may be slippers, but they have a thick rubber sole with lots of grips so that you can wear them both inside and outside. They’re also entirely made of real leather and suede, so they’re durable and will last you a long time.
These shoes do come equipped with a molded EVA insole to give them added comfort, but they also have a slightly scratchy label sewn into them that can become uncomfortable to walk around in.
The back collar of the shoes ends right at the ankle too, so if you walk around in them a lot, this part of the shoe may begin to rub against your ankle uncomfortably.
Pros
- Constructed of 100% suede and leather for added durability and quality
- Rubber sole for added traction and durability
- Lined with wool for added warmth and comfort
- Removable molded EVA insole for added comfort
- Available in a wide variety of color options
- Easy to slip on and off
Cons
- There is a scratchy label on the shoes that may become itchy or uncomfortable
- The back collar of the shoes may rub against your ankle when walking around in them for a long time
Sorel Women’s Nakiska Slipper is an excellent pair of slippers if you’re looking for ones that you can wear outside. They are durable and lined with wool, so they’ll keep your feet warm and protected.
7. Crocs Men’s Beach Line Boat Shoe
The Crocs Men’s Beach Line Boat Shoes are a water-friendly pair of shoes that were designed to withstand even the wettest conditions.
These shoes come with water drainage ports, so when they get wet, the water will drain from them quickly and efficiently to keep your feet dry.
These shoes constructed with the Croslite material that Crocs is known for. It is a soft and breathable material that will keep your feet comfortable and your shoe odor-free.
However, one thing to note about these shoes is that although the sole of them is grippy and slip-resistant, it is not very durable.
These shoes are marketed as having the versatility to be worn for a variety of activities, including hiking, walking, and gardening, but the soles are not durable enough to last through any heavy-duty activities.
Pros
- Water drainage ports and dual goring insets make this shoe water friendly
- Made of soft Croslite material for added comfort
- Breathable design for odor resistance
- Grippy soles for added versatility and slip resistance
- Available in seven different color and design options
- Easy to slip on and off
Cons
- Although the material is comfortable and breathable, it is not very durable
- These shoes tend to rub at the toe if you have longer feet
If you are looking for a pair of shoes to wear for lighter activities that will also not be damaged by water, then these shoes are a great option. However, if you’re looking for shoes that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, then these are not a great choice.
What to Look When Buying a Shoes to Wear Without Socks
Style
One of the first things that you notice about a shoe when you look at it is its style. If a shoe doesn’t fit your style, then odds are you won’t give it the time of day.
It is essential to be sure that whatever style of shoe you purchase will match different outfits that you have. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself not wearing the shoes very much because they don’t go with anything you own.
Fit
Finding a shoe with a good fit is especially important if you plan to not wear socks with them because you don’t have that extra barrier between your foot and the inside of the shoe to protect you and keep you comfortable.
When buying a shoe to wear without socks, you want to be sure to find one that will fit snugly and mold to the shape of your foot. However, you don’t want the shoe to be too tight either because then it can squish your toes, cause blisters, and be uncomfortable to walk around in.
Value
Everyone likes an affordable, budget-friendly shoe, but those don’t always give you the best value.
A pair of shoes like the VISCATA Espadrille Flats are very affordable, but they only hold up for about a year or two. It is up to you to determine whether that is enough value for you based on their price.
Support/Durability
It is essential to have proper support in a shoe to keep your feet protected when walking around in them. Durability is another crucial factor that can help protect your feet and help the shoes hold up for a more extended period.
Pay attention to the materials that both the insoles and outsoles are constructed out of. A thicker rubber sole with much traction tends to be more durable than a thinner one with less traction.
It also provides shock absorption to help support and protect your feet and ankles when walking long distances.
Drop
The drop of the shoe is about the height of the toe compared to the heel height. So an ideal zero drop shoe would be one with a completely flat heel that keeps the toes and heel at the same level. A 5mm drop shoe would be one where the toe sits 5mm lower than the heel.
Having a higher drop can cause you to lean forward a bit, which can sometimes lead to knee injuries. It is best to look for a shoe with a zero to low drop to ensure that you don’t hurt your knees and can walk around comfortably.
Grip
The grip of the shoe all depends on what the sole of the shoe is made out of. The majority of the shoe has a rubber sole, but some still have more traction than others. Molded rubber tends to have more traction than a smoother rubber does.
The synthetic Croslite material that the Crocs Men’s Beach Line Boat Shoes’ soles constructed also has a high amount of traction and grip, although this material is specific to Crocs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How can I make sure my feet and shoes don’t smell from wearing them without socks?
A. One simple way to keep your feet and shoes from smelling from wearing them without socks is to look for a pair of shoes that are more lightweight and offers more breathability.
Getting enough airflow through your shoes will help keep your feet cool and dry, which will help prevent them from sweating as much.
However, not all shoes provide a ton of breathability, and even ones that do can still develop an odor depending on how much your feet usually sweat and smell. One solution is to get a deodorizing spray to spray in your shoes to help keep the scent under control.
You can also get a deodorant spray or cream for your feet to help control the amount of sweat and smell they give off. It may also be wise not to wear the same pair of shoes every day so that they have time to air out in-between wears.
Q. Are there any benefits to wearing shoes without socks?
A. The main benefit of wearing shoes without socks is that it will keep your feet a lot more cool, especially in the warmer spring and summer months. Wearing shoes without socks can also provide a closer fit that molds to your foot, which can be very comfortable.
Q. Which shoes should I never wear without socks?
A. There are a few types of shoes that should never be worn without socks. Sneakers, boots, and basketball shoes are a few of the main ones.
Both sneakers and basketball shoes (and any other workout shoe for that matter) should always be worn with socks to keep them from smelling bad, developing a yellowish color, and becoming moldy.
When you are running, playing sports, wearing socks can help soak up some of the sweat your produce and keep your feet more dry and cool.
Boots are another type of shoe that should always be worn with socks. Most boots are not very comfortable to wear without them and will give you blisters and callouses if you walk around in them without that extra barrier of protection that sock provides.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many different things to consider when shopping for a pair of shoes to wear without socks. You want a pair that will be comfortable to walk around in, provide your feet protection and support, and fit your style.
I hope that after reading this article, you will have more insight into how to choose the best shoes to wear without socks for you and your needs.
Reference:
- How Bad Is It To Wear Socks Without Shoes?, by anklefootmd
- Why You Should Stop Wearing Socks, by besynchro