What to look for in kids' slippers
Warmth: Keeping tiny toes warm is essential, especially in winter. Look for slippers that are made from soft and snuggly sheepskin or have a faux fur lining. An enclosed boot or slipper sock will also warm the legs as well as the feet.
Type of sole: A soft sole will suffice if your child is wearing their slippers indoors and on carpets. They will also be more cosy than hard-soled slippers, which provide more traction and work better if you have hard floors or they wear them in the garden.
Anti-slip: Tiled, laminate and hardwood floors can be slippy, so look for stiff rubber soles that provide traction or soft soles with a textured base.
Ankle support: Toddlers can be clumsy, so a high-sided slipper in sturdy fabric is a good idea. They will provide ankle support and general stability.
Lining: A slipper with a lining will provide more insulation, cushioning and support. Likely, they will also last longer. However, if your child gets hot quickly or you’re entering the warmer summer months, an unlined slipper will be cooler, lightweight and provide extra breathability.
Fit: Slippers can have a variety of sizing systems; they might range from XS-XL, have specific shoe sizes or be designed to fit one or two sizes. If you’re unsure, most manufacturers will provide a size guide that allows you to choose based on measurements in inches.
Fun: A cute or fun design will look adorable and encourage your child to wear their new slippers. However, don’t be tempted to buy the massive fluffy animal slippers that will make your youngster's feet unpleasantly hot just because they are funny.
Don’t fall off: If your toddler is constantly pulling their slippers off or falling off when they are playing, choose slippers with robust rip tape fastening around the ankles.
Should my child wear non-slip slippers?
Yes, if your home has hardwood, laminate or tiled floors, a pair of slippers with a non-slip sole is an excellent idea. The soft textured base or sturdy rubber sole will keep your little ones upright as they charge around the house.
How often should I replace my kids' slippers?
Your child will likely grow out of their slippers before they need replacing. This is especially true of toddlers and young children whose feet grow super-quick.
If your child wears their slippers outside, for example, to play in the garden, they may wear out quicker, especially if they have soft soles.
Wear and tear of the inside of slippers is possible too. For example, if your child loves running around the house and lots of active play, the inner soles may become dislodged. Similarly, a child who gets hot, sweaty feet may need a fresh pair of slippers sooner rather than later as they might be stinky.
If your child’s slippers get too tight or stretch, so they fall off, develop holes in the toes or soles, or the inner sole becomes rumpled and uncomfortable, it’s time to replace them.
Which kids' slippers will last the longest?
Children’s feet grow fast! So in terms of time, most slippers only need to last six months. However, remember that a comfy pair of slippers will be worn daily, and once your child gets older, their feet will grow slower, so invest in a pair of slippers that will last for at least a year.
Seek out slippers made from high-quality materials that will last, such as sheepskin, leather and wool. Stiff rubber soles are also good if worn on hard floors or outside in the garden.
The verdict: Best kids’ slippers
We picked John Lewis & Partners Felt Boot Slippers as our best kids’ slippers of 2022. They have an adorable, unisex design, will encase your child’s feet in warmth and softness and are excellent quality, so they will last as long as you need them to.
How we chose our recommendations
Because we know there’s nothing like a genuine recommendation from a parent, we first headed to the Mumsnet forums to find out which kids’ slippers discerning Mumsnet users had bought for their families. Next, we compiled a list of the slippers they recommended for comfort and durability.
We then researched the wider web, looking at which kids' slippers had won accolades or been featured in ‘best buy’ lists across websites and print media and what customer reviews said about them. Then, having collated all that information, we picked the children’s slippers and slipper socks we thought would keep small feet warm, protected and comfy this winter.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. Our writer, Gemma, is a mother of two children, Jasmine and Liam, so she knows the importance of high-quality, durable kids' slippers that keep small feet warm, comfortable and protected.
Gemma also has a home with tiled and hardwood floors, so she understands how essential it is to choose childs’ slippers with a robust, anti-slip sole and ankle support. Breathability and a fun design that encourages the child to wear their slippers are critical considerations too.
We considered each recommendation carefully, scrutinising each pair's durability, sustainability and value for money to bring you the best kids’ slippers of 2022.