Shoe Lace Up Once And For All
Once you learn how to lace shoes so they slip on, you can save yourself a bit of time and frustration every day. Sure, lacing shoes doesn’t take that long to do, but it can be just long enough to slow you down when you’re trying to hurry out the door.
Besides saving time, it can be nice not to have to go through the issue of lacing shoes every day. With these methods for lacing shoes tips, youre able to make your life just a little bit simpler. In the end, who doesnt want that kind of convenience?
Last Updated on March 19, 2022 by admin_comfortabledressshoes
Best For Hiking: Llbean Vista Slip
Why We Love It: They’re water repellant.
What to Consider: They can feel very tight and at first.
These L.L.Bean slip-on sneakers have a lugged outsole that provides excellent traction, making them a great option to wear on hikes and other outdoor excursions. The elastic goring keeps your feet from slipping out when walking, while the rubber toe bumper prevents you from stubbing your toes on even the rockiest terrains. One of the most interesting features, however, is the shoes’ stretchy collar, which hugs the ankle and keeps debris out.
The shoes certainly impress in the durability department, but our editors say it’s the shoes’ design that stands out most. Our testers loved that the shoes are made for hiking but are more attractive than other sneakers or hiking boots: The stylish kicks are suede but still meant to repel water. They also appreciated the color options, which add a fun element to super functional shoes. Our testers added that the shoes can be a bit tight at first, but they quickly loosen up and fit perfectly.
Price at time of publish: $99
Sizes: 6 to 11 | Material: Suede, leather, rubber
Best Overall: Dr Scholl’s Madison Sneaker
Also available at Dr. Scholl’s Shoes
Why We Love It: They’re ultra-comfy, yet stylish enough to wear anywhere plus, they travel well.
What to Consider: They may cause your feet to overheat.
These cute slip-on sneakers by Dr. Scholl’s are insanely comfortable. They’re designed with a memory foam footbed for added support and a thick rubber sole that provides excellent traction. According to Sutera, the comfiest shoes include a deep-seated heel cup, arch support, and cushioning, and the Madisons check off every box. Plus, the padded collar provides a more comfortable feel while the flexible side panels allow you to slip them on easily, even hands-free. These also come in a variety of color and style options, so you can choose from bold camo, leopard prints, or more neutral variations like black, olive, or faux leather.
To top it off, our testers felt they were extremely versatile. “They’re flexible enough to dress up or down depending on where you’re going,” our tester for this pair says. So whether you wear them to sightsee or to impress at brunch, they’re sure to comfortably complete your look.
Price at time of publish: $33-$140
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Microsuede, faux leather or fabric, vulcanized rubber
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Technique #: Straight Bar Lacing
If you want to lace dress shoes or a similar pair of flat shoes so that they can be slipped on easily when youre getting ready, you might want to try the more professional and clean-looking straight bar lacing technique instead. This type of lacing looks excellent and is easy to do. Plus, your foot will slide right in!
Here’s how to bar lace shoes:
Thats all it takes to straight bar lace your dress shoes!
Read also: Are Dress Shoes Non Slip?
Best Leather: Naturalizer Aileen Sneaker

Also available at Naturalizer
Why We Love It: They mold to the shape of the wearer’s feet, so they’ll always feel personalized for you.
What to Consider: They may pinch and rub your heels until they’re broken in.
“Accommodate the forefoot with materials made of soft, forgiving leather,” Dr. Sutera says. “Shoes that are not made of a forgiving material and are not the proper width will compress and squeeze the forefoot.” This pair by Naturalizer is the perfect comfy leather pick for a more elevated look. The non-slip outsole adds stability to the sophisticated sneaker, while the elastic side panels make them easy to take on and off. Other features that make these the ideal choice for comfort are a luxe terry lining, removable footbed, and Contour+ technology, which uses foam cushioning that sculpts and conforms to the unique shape of your foot. The sneakers even include a hidden, 1-inch heel for a subtle added lift.
Our testers found even more details to love. “I love the sleek look, perforated details, neutral color, cushioning, thick sole, and easy slip-on style,” Associate Editorial Director of Travel Commerce Susan Brickell. “The luxe leather exterior makes them easy to dress up or down, but since they have a sportier feel, I paired them with cute jumpsuits, as well as with blouses and denim. They look much more expensive than they are.”
Price at time of publish: $24-$230
Sizes: 4 to 12 Wide | Material: Suede, leather
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Best Perforated: Ilse Jacobsen Tulip 139 Perforated Slip
Also available at Zappos
Why We Love It: The perforation allows for airflow and keeps your feet from getting sweaty.
What to Consider: They will likely have to be replaced after a few seasons of wear.
These sleek slip-ons by Ilse Jacobsen boast a fashion-forward design thanks to the scalloped perforations on the upper, which also work to wick away sweat and keep your feet cool. Speaking of the upper, it’s comfortable for all-day wear, while a flexible rubber sole offers excellent mobility in every situation.
Though they are quite stylish and packed with features, our testers are most impressed by how good the shoes feel on their feet. “They’re well cushioned and comfortable for a lot of walking, yet they are more adaptable to different outfits and occasions than tennis shoes,” one tester commented. “They’re also super lightweight, so they wouldn’t weigh down your suitcase.” She also notes that the sweat-wicking perforation feature works best when you’re on the go, since there’s more airflow.
Keep in mind the shoes do run small, so the brand suggests you order the next size up from your normal size.
Price at time of publish: $84-$94
Sizes: 6 to 12 | Material: Synthetic, leather, rubber
Alyx 9sm Mono Sneakers
EVA sneakers, in all their spongy comfort, are enjoying a serious moment. Take a gander through any shop worth its weight in hyped-up kicks and you’re bound to encounter at least one riff on the materialfrom the OGs at Crocs, say, or the luxe loungewear whizzes at Fear of God and Yeezy. But Alyxs white-hot slip-on might be the Platonic version of the form. Made out of an ultra-sleek rubber foam, it shares more in common with a sculptural objet than the sneakers it rubs toe-boxes withif a sculptural objet was as comfy as your favorite pair of Birks.
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Best Classic: Vans Classic Slip
Why We Love It: They’re unbelievably comfy
What to Consider: after they’ve been broken in.
Vans’ Classic Slip-on Sneakers have been popular for more than 50 years, and it’s easy to see why. They look just as good when worn with casual jeans and leggings as they do with skirts and dresses that versatility means you can cut down on the number of shoes you’ll have to pack for a trip. Featuring elastic side panels for added comfort and easy slip-on, a sturdy textile upper and lining, and rubber sole, these kicks will last through years of wear and tear.
While our testers say the shoes feel like they’re made for travel, they do suggest breaking them in before wearing them on your next trip. “I would recommend a broken-in pair for travel, one hundred percent,” Travel + Leisure Associate Digital Editor Jamie Aranoff says. She loves that they’re lightweight and easy to pack, as well as versatile in terms of outfit pairing. But wait to use them for trips until they are broken in, she says. The sneakers fit true to size, they are sold in unisex sizes, so be sure to check the Vans size guide to find the right fit.
Price at time of publish: $47-$187
Sizes: 514.5 , 3.513 | Material: Canvas, rubber
Best Cushioned: Ugg Bren Slip
Why We Love It: They’re comfortable right out of the box and won’t cause blisters.
What to Consider: Although they’re cushioned, they are a bit stiff.
Ugg is known for producing comfortable, high-quality shoes, and these slip-on sneakers are no different. The travel-ready shoes have an ultra-cushioned footbed and a terry-cloth lining that is super soft on your feet. The cotton upper is breathable so your feet won’t overheat, and the durable sole provides excellent traction on all types of terrains. The crepe rubber outsole adds major flexibility, so these shoes will stay comfy even after hours on your feet.
And while they’re on the stiff side, our testers rave about the fact that Ugg’s Bren Slip-ons don’t rub the way other shoes do. “I didn’t get blisters, every new pair of shoes gives me blisters,” our editor noted. “I expected these Uggs to do some damage because they felt hard, but my feet didn’t experience any changes at all.”
Price at time of publish: $48-$90
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Material: Cotton, canvas, rubber
Read Also: Where To Buy Branded Shoes Online
Best Luxe: Vince Blair 5 Slip
Why We Love It: They have ample cushioning and supportive arches.
What to Consider: They’re on the pricier side.
Splurging on a pair of sneakers may seem excessive, but these luxe Vince sneakers are well worth the higher price point. Besides the gorgeous style that you’ll want to show off from the plane to the city streets and everywhere in between, these shoes also feature a soft and supple lining and a comfortable insole. Your feet will also remain blister-free thanks to elastic insets that won’t rub or chafe.
And according to our testers, the comfy-yet-stylish Vince Blairs are worth the price tag. “I love these shoes for the airport,” T+L’s luxury and experiences editor Maya Kachroo-Levine says. “They’re the perfect Sky Club shoes, ideal for a chic lounge moment but also easy to slip off when going through security. But also, they are perfect for a long day of walking, which you wouldn’t necessarily expect from the more elevated slip-on sneakers.” Order the sneakers in black or white for a crisp and classic look, or try out a beige- or pink-hued version of the shoes.
Price at time of publish: $54-$238
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Material: Calfskin, leather, rubber
Our Top Picks For The Best Slip
- if you’re in your coastal grandma phaseMexico 66 Slip-OnOnitsuka Tiger
- if you want the LBD of slip-on sneaksWarren Slip-On Platform Suede SneakersVince
- if you’re looking for something whiteSuperstar Slip-on ShoesAdidas
- if you’re a fan of converseChuck Taylor All Star Slip Converse
- if it has to be eco-friendlyIbi Slip On Leopard Print KnitCariuma
- if you’re all about stripesThe Sneaker in Riviera PinstripeRothy’s
- if you want some added heightAlpargata Boardwalk Slip OnTOMS
- If you love a classic lookMule SneakersSuperga
- if you want to add flair to your ‘fitCheckerboard Slip-OnVans
- if you’re not really a sneaker personMika Platform SneakerJ/Slides
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Best Backless: Easy Spirit Tourguide Mule Sneaker
Why We Love It: They’re comfy enough to buy in several of the 83 available colors.
What to Consider: The sizing is inconsistent between styles.
If you prefer the ease of backless sneakers, check out this pair by Easy Spirit. The sporty kicks feature an insole that’s made extra comfortable by shock-absorbing cushioning. The outsole boasts ultra-flexible rubber with ridges, adding outstanding traction and making the shoes an excellent option on all types of terrain, from airport terminals to national parks. The upper is constructed with a rounded toe, while a soft, padded collar ensures comfort from the moment you slide your foot inside.
And if you ask our editors, they’d agree this pair is one of the comfiest, most practical options on our list. “I love that I was able to get a perfect fit, since the manufacturer offers narrow and wide options for each size,” said our editor. “Also, if you wear orthotics, you can remove the shoe’s insert and replace with your own orthotic.” She does suggest wearing them with socks, though, to prevent your feet from sweating.
Price at time of publish: $23-$140
Sizes: 5 to 12 Wide | Material: Leather, rubber
Learn Lacing Shoes Methods

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Whether you want to be able to run out the door faster when youre getting ready for work in the morning or you’re just tired of having to lace up your sneakers on the way out the door, theres a way you can use your time getting ready just a little more efficiently. That’s by learning how to lace your shoes so they slip on!
While this practice works best with shoes that are slightly more loose-fitting than with a pair of running shoes, learning how to do this can save you a little bit of time and frustration every day, and that bit of time can often make a difference when you’re in a hurry.
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Best Platform: Steve Madden Gills Sneaker
Also available at Steve Madden
Why We Love It: They’re dressy enough for work but casual and comfy enough to walk the dog.
What to Consider: They’re not made for wider feet.
These Steve Madden slip-ons have a 1.25-inch platform that will give you the perfect amount of lift while still being a breeze to walk in. Along with a padded collar that won’t cause blisters, the sneakers also boast a lightly cushioned insole and a durable rubber sole. And don’t worry about slipping when you’ve got these on the outsole offers stellar traction and durability.
“These were truly comfortable right out of the box,” Jamie Hergenrader, Editorial Director of commerce content at Travel + Leisure says. “No breaking in, no rubbing, no pain. I also like the style. They pair well with jeans or an even more casual look with leggings. The first time I put them on, I needed to use my hands to guide them onto my feet, but after a couple more wears, I was able to slip them on hands-free.” Our testers did say the shoes got a little hot but added that it wasn’t a deal breaker.
Price at time of publish: $30-$106
Sizes: 5 to 14 | Material: Suede, Leather, Rubber | Color Options: 36
Best Wool: Allbirds Wool Loungers
Why We Love It: They keep your feet warm in winter weather but cooled off in hotter temperatures.
What to Consider: They don’t have as much arch support as other options on our list.
Frequent fliers love to travel in comfortable sneakers from Allbirds, and the Wool Loungers are one of the brand’s most popular styles. Not only are they lightweight, breathable, and super comfortable, but they’re made with ZQ merino wool, which has temperature-regulating capabilities, so these will keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Merino wool is also naturally odor resistant, so you can walk hundreds of miles in them without worry of bringing odor into your bag when you pack them. Perhaps the best part is that they’re machine washable, which is highly convenient for keeping them fresh and clean for years to come.
Beyond their comfy, lightweight feel, our testers love the Wool Loungers’ temperature-perfecting qualities. “They’re very comfortable for all-day movement and won’t make your feet overheat and I was impressed at how warm my feet were walking around in 40-degree weather!” our tester commented.
Price at time of publish: $105
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Material: Merino wool
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Technique #: The Army Lace
One of the first ways to lace your shoes so they slip on is to army lace them. While the lacing will look somewhat like a standard way of tying your shoes, youll actually be ensuring that there’s a bit more flexibility in the lacing so that you can easily slip your shoes on and off with ease.
Heres how you can do it: