Cloud or pillow slides (also known as pillow-top slides or EVA slippers) are comfy footwear that are taking the fashion world by storm. They look like flip flops but have a softer, lighter feel and are great for everyday wear.
The trendy shoe has gained popularity thanks to TikTok celebrities and influencers wearing them. But what exactly are these shoes and how are they beneficial for the feet?
Comfort
If you’re on a quest to find the most comfortable footwear, look no further than cloud slides. The popular slip-on shoes are known for their softness, light weight and cushioning. They’re made from a premium-grade EVA material, which is wear-resistant, waterproof and easy to clean. This makes them suitable for various lifestyles.
The molded footbed and thick foam sole provide excellent elasticity and shock absorption, which makes walking in cloud slides much easier on your feet than in regular flip flops or other types of sandals. The cushioned sole also distributes foot pressure evenly to prevent foot pain caused by long periods of standing or walking.
Many people use cloud slides as “recovery shoes” after workouts to soothe sore feet. They’re also great for casual wear, as they are lightweight and offer a good amount of comfort while walking around the house or running errands. However, if you plan to walk for extended periods of time, it’s recommended that you choose shoes designed for walking and provide adequate support. These shoes may not be ideal for longer walks or intense activity as they do not provide adequate arch support or shock absorption.
Durability
Although TikTok’s popular cloud slides might not be everyone’s style, they are a comfy and practical option for walking around. They are light, soft and come in a variety of colors to match your mood. They can even be customized with cute shoe charms and have grippy soles for walking on slippery surfaces. And, most importantly, they provide cushioning and support for your feet.
According to podiatrists, these shoes are a good choice for those who want comfort, softness and shock-absorption while walking around indoors. They also help alleviate foot pain due to plantar fasciitis and flat feet. And, they’re super easy to clean and pack down into a tiny space in your bag, says one expert.
These slides have earned the APMA’s seal of approval, thanks to their thick sole and molded footbed. The 1.7-inch platform and velcro strap make them more comfortable for long walks. Plus, they’re water-resistant and available in fun tie-dye or leopard print options. One reviewer calls them “an answered prayer” for helping her with her painful plantar fasciitis.
Style
Whether you’re wearing them poolside or pairing them with loungewear on the go, these sneakers are sure to add an extra spring in your step. With over 25,000 five-star Amazon reviews, it’s no wonder why these Cushionaire cloud slides were named one of the best footwear trends for summer 2019. With their molded footbed and 1.75-inch cushioned sole, this shoe provides extra support, bounce, and absorbs shock to make every step feel feather-light. Plus, they’re incredibly lightweight and won’t overload your barely-under-the-weight-limit luggage!
While they’re a hit on TikTok and have become a popular fashion trend, it’s important to remember that they’re not a replacement for walking shoes. Since they don’t provide enough arch support or cushioning, you may experience discomfort and foot pain if you wear them for long walks or activities.
Does it hurt?
Unlike flip-flops, cloud slides provide support for your feet, helping to relieve pain from walking on hard surfaces. The shoes’ thick soles absorb shock to reduce the stress on your feet, ankles, knees, and hips, says podiatrist Miguel Cunha.
In addition, many cloud slide styles come with arch support and cushioning to alleviate foot pain. These features are especially useful for people with flat feet and toe deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes, and for those who have lost the protective fat pad in their heels and feet.
One example of this is the Hoka Bondi Slide, which offers a comfortable 1.7-inch platform and bucketloads of thick foam that alleviate foot stress and reduce the impact on your feet from your stride. Another is the Norda 008 recovery slide, which features bio-EVA and Dyneema to make it lightweight and durable. The shoe’s thick sole provides excellent shock absorption, and its forefoot rocker decreases the peak stress on your foot. It’s a great choice for recovering from intense workouts and long days on your feet.
Are they good for walking?
Compared to most lounge/slipper shoes that are made of polyester, faux fur and synthetic fibers, cloud slides offer superior comfort, cushioning and durability. In addition, they are easy to clean. However, they do not provide sufficient arch support and may cause foot pain if worn for prolonged periods of time.
Megan Foley, wellness writer and professional ballet dancer, wears a pair of Adidas’ Adilette Slides to curb post-workout foot and ankle inflammation and says that sliding them on at the end of her day is her “recovery ritual.” She’s not alone: according to Dr. Miguel Cunha, Podiatrist at Gotham Footcare, cloud slides are a footwear trend that goes well beyond style to actually improve foot and ankle function.
The best-reviewed cloud slides are made of EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), which is a light synthetic rubber with shock-absorbing properties, explains Dr. Cunha. The bouncy cushioning of these slides is ideal for curbing post-workout inflammation, while the padded adjustable strap allows for a personalized fit and accommodates swollen feet. They’re also lightweight, which makes them a great travel shoe.