What we love: “If you’re after a grippy kitchen shoe, there’s nothing better than a pair of Snibbs clogs,” says Kaufman. These shoes have been tested for slip resistance (in fact, they’re certified by the industry-standard ASTM F2913 test), so you can count on them to remain stable even on wet floors. Kaufman also appreciates that “they’re very supportive, owing to the fact that they’re stiffer than lots of other house shoes.” Rather than a padded footbed, these have a rubber-like EVA top sole that’s meant to increase blood flow, balance, and stability.
What we’d leave: Kaufman notes that the lack of a back strap means these shoes slide off his feet more easily than he’d like. And while their firm footbed is a plus for Kaufman, he notes that people expecting a cushy kitchen shoe should look elsewhere.
The cushiest kitchen clogs: Oofos Clogs
Pros:
- Cloud-like feel
- Extremely comfortable
Cons:
- Not non-slip
- Need to be replaced yearly
- Fit: True to size
- Material: OOfoam
- Support: Very cushioned
- Non-slip certification: None
These clogs are technically designed as recovery shoes for long-distance runners—Kaufman first encountered them in a running store in Madison, Wisconsin. But according to Kaufman, “they also happen to be the most comfortable house shoes I’ve ever worn.”
What we love: If cushion-like comfort is what you’re after, these are the clogs for you. “The term ‘cloud like’ gets thrown around a lot when describing kitchen shoes, but I’d say that, compared to Oofo clogs or slides, everything else is an embarrassing pretender,” says Kaufman. “They’re squishy and deep, and when I step into them, they hug and envelop my foot. It’s like having a memory foam mat attached to your soles.”
What we’d leave: These clogs are lacking a bit in the non-slip department, especially compared to some of the other options on this list that are made specifically with grip in mind. Kaufman also notes that “if you wear them every day, that new Oofos feel will go away after 6-8 months.” While you can still wear them at this point, you’ll want to replace these every year or so to reap the full cushiony benefits.
Best for the cook who needs to be quick on their feet: Seavee Bodega Clog
Pros:
- Snug fit means they won’t slip off
- Comfortable for both walking and standing
- Stylish colorways
Cons:
- You may need to replace them every few years if you’re wearing them every day
- Fit: True to size
- Material: Rubber, polyester, cotton, memory foam
- Support: Medium firm
- Non-slip certification: None
For an ideal balance between slip-on convenience and snug-fitting security, opt for the Seavees Bodega Clogs. They’re the kitchen shoe of choice for associate test kitchen manager Inés Anguiano, whose day-to-day might consist of any combination of cooking, running errands, or bopping around to various floors in our office building.
