Staying Fitted at Home: A House Shoe Guide
Since the start of the pandemic, we have found ourselves getting out less and overall having fewer reasons to dress up or put on some clean footwear. This has been hard on those of us with a sneaker passion but being homebound shouldn't have to limit your ability to be your most stylish. While you may be attached to your crocs you have to admit they aren't the pinnacle of style and frankly, we can do better. The following list of slides and mules will ensure that you're never caught lacking even while around the house.
#1 The North Face Thermoball Traction Mule V
This mule at first glance looks like someone took a slipper and put a puffer jacket on it and that's not so far from reality. The outsole has a dual purpose of providing insulation while being covered in a water-resistant outer shell. These outdoor features are taken a step further on the sole with a rugged tread that can help maintain balance on the iciest of driveways. While not out of place in an Everest basecamp, this mule is just as practical walking around the house on cold days.
#2 Birkenstock Boston
This list really wouldn't be complete without including Birkenstocks at least once. They are a household name at this point with craftsmanship being the forefront of their brand. While the classic birks are still great, there are other options that offer just as much comfort but visually are a breath of fresh air. This is where the Boston comes in, a close-toe offering with a signature buckle and adjustable strap. While they may give off a little pilgrim energy at first glance, they became the “it” house shoe last year and are a reliable option for mixing comfy and classy.
#3 Reebok Beatnik
This particular shoe-sandal hybrid was once rejected by America but has since made a comeback. Originally released in the ’90s the beatnik flopped in the US but upon arriving in Japan they became an instant cult classic. Now many years later after an American re-release, the Beatniks are finally getting the love they deserve. With a super-strong nylon upper and jagged treaded soles, these shoes are as ready for the house as they are for any outdoor adventure. The beatnik was even graced by a collab with Japanese streetwear brand, Needles, and features the brand's signature purple butterfly motif.
#4 Merell Hydro Moc
These are a pair of house shoes that really have Kanye to thank for their rise to prominence. The hole-covered design, while possibly triggering to those with trypophobia (the fear of small holes), bears an uncanny resemblance to Kanye's own Yeezy foam runners. This may make me seem like a hypocrite after criticizing crocs but if you want to achieve the Yeezy aesthetic on a budget these are your go-to. Beyond that similarity though, these are just great practical outdoor clogs that will last years.
#5 Birkenstock Kyoto
With how popular Birkenstocks are I felt like I might as well highlight another offering from the brand. The Kyoto is a new twist on the classic design with a singular strap that is secured by a hook and loop giving you much more freedom to adjust than the classic buckle system. It is ultimately a more modern-looking rendition of your classic Birks.