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10 Best Yoga Shoes
We have spent a wealth of time scanning the lands – and we have found the absolute best yoga shoes, all which are designed to help improve your yoga performance. So, if you are trying to perform the popular, Half Moon yoga position finally, perhaps it’s time to consider a pair of high-quality, light-weight yoga shoes. Let us guide you through the best products, offering some of the best features and innovations this industry has seen.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Criteria Used to Evaluate Yoga Shoes
After spending countless hours looking and scanning the market for the best yoga shoes – we realized that it could be quite challenging for consumers to figure out what are the best shoes for their needs. You might be wondering, are there that many yoga shoes from which to pick?
There are many different products, all claiming their right to be the best in the industry. However, this is not the case. Now, we understand the importance of having a pair of high-quality yoga shoes.
We have been in the position, performing yoga stretches, finding our feet slipping, making it hard to land a pose correctly. In other words, these innovative products could mean the difference between accomplishing your next pose, whether that’s downward dog, tabletop position, or the serpents pose.
So, in today’s article, we truly wanted to help interested yoga gurus find the best shoes to match their needs. Our goal was to provide a wealth of information about each shoe, including a few tips and tricks, making it easy to highlight the best product.
We took the time to break down each product based on its materials, quality of build, durability, and even their cost-to-value. So, if you are looking to finally land the warrior pose with confidence or the infamous tree-top pose – your yoga journey begins here, with us!
Let us know, what yoga shoe matches your style and flow!
As we have discussed in our article, there are a vast amount of yoga shoes for consumers, like yourself, from which to pick. In this, after extensive research, we were able to draw some strong conclusions. For one, it appears that, in this industry, it is very simple for a manufacturer to call their shoe a “yoga shoe.” In other words, the terminology is loosely-used, making it very difficult for a consumer to find a true yoga shoe.
Have you ever purchased a pair of shoes that was mentioned it was great for yoga; however, after trying to do a few stretches, you realize that it’s not possible? In this, we created this guide to help you recognize and learn what the best, true yoga shoes are.
Now, before we were able to announce our list of the best ten yoga shoes – we needed to have some measurement for what qualified as the best. Makes sense right? So, what we did was create a list of criteria, standards, and requirements that each shoe would be reviewed on.
If a shoe did not match or excel our standards – it was removed from the competition. In doing this, we were able to highlight the very best of products, and some of the very worst products. Now, if you are interested in learning how we were able to select the best products – the following is an explanation of our criteria.
Materials
When it comes to picking out the best yoga shoes – we knew that one of the most critical aspects that must be taken into consideration is the materials used in constructing the shoe. Understanding the type of material that a company utilizes in their shoe could speak volumes about their dedication to quality and their target audience.
With that being said, as we looked at each yoga shoe, we scanned for a list of all the materials used in each shoe. While we expected each shoe to be made from the best, most durable, and highly-breathable materials – that was not the case.
It’s critical that consumers look at the material of the product – otherwise, they may end up with a faulty shoe. What we can say about our list is that every single product is made from the most durable and stretchiest materials, making them optimal choices for comfortable yoga exercises.
Sole Technology
When it comes to purchasing any shoe, there is something that consumers need to look out for sole technology. If you did not know, a shoe comes built with a few different types of soles:
Outsole: This typically refers to the exterior, bottom part of the shoe. This material tends to be the strongest and most durable part of the shoe, built with traction-like features.
Midsole: The midsole is the part of the shoe where the support for a walker, runner, or yoga enthusiast resides.
Insole: This is the part of the shoe that provides for extra stability when using the shoe. Typically, running shoes tend to place heavy value on their insole.
Now that you are well-versed in the different types of soles – we were interested in learning about the different type of sole technology, and innovations companies were using when making yoga shoes. In our opinion, this was one of the easiest ways to eliminate a true yoga shoe company from a wanna-be company.
Ease of Use
When it comes to making different types of specialty shoes, manufacturers have made great shoes; however, they involved complicated lacing, making the shoes unappealing. We live in a culture where we like things to be easy.
Think about – if you had the choice between something easy to do or hard to do – what would you pick? With that being said, what we noticed about the yoga shoe industry was many different types of shoes were made with ease-of-use in mind, also known as slip-on designs.
While this did not bare a lot of weight – it was something we took into consideration when looking at each shoe. The last thing we wanted to put on this list was a complicated yoga shoe that required a lesson to lace it up.
Breathability
We all know that yoga can be an intense exercise. As much as it is relaxing and peaceful, if you are using yoga as a physical exercise, you might find yourself sweating, especially if you do humid or hot yoga. With that being said, we wanted to make sure that, when picking out any yoga shoe, it was built with ventilation and breathability in mind.
The last thing that any yoga practitioner will want is a sweaty, moisture-filled, and smelly shoe. So, as we evaluated each product, we kept a keen eye out for products that came with highly innovative material designs to promote maximum breathability.
Comfortability
Shoes are meant to make human beings more comfortable when they are walking. This is a natural component of any shoe, whether yoga or not. With that being said, when we were creating our list of yoga shoes, we wanted to make sure that each shoe felt like a seamless inclusion into the exercise. We wanted to find lightweight products that felt like air to your feet.
In other words, when wearing a pair of yoga shoes, we wanted to pick products that made it feel as if an individual was walking on a cloud or air. So, when looking at each product, we carefully looked at previous customer reviews to see what people were saying about comfortability. We always verified any claims that the company said regarding their padding or foam insoles to make sure that it was true.
Durability
Another crucial aspect that we took into consideration when evaluating each yoga shoe was how durable the materials and the physical product was. Can you imagine purchasing a yoga shoe that you thought looked stunning and offered great value but, the moment it came in, and you tried it on, it ripped? Poor quality has happened to thousands of customers.
After reading a few horror stories – it became our goal to make sure that each product that made our list was tried and practiced for durability. We took the time to look at how each product was designed carefully.
The process included looking at pictures, reading the manufacturer’s description of the product, and even looking at what previous customers were saying in their reviews about their positive and negative experiences. In this, what you will find in today’s guide is that each product offers the very best of durability and can last for many extensive yoga exercises.
Design and Appeal
While there are many different features and value-based components of evaluating yoga shoes, we can’t forget about the design and appeal of a shoe. In truth, this is a critical component that consumers care about.
Let’s be honest – if you had the choice between a bulky yoga shoe that came with minimal designs and one that was sleek, fashionable, and offered in many different colors – what would you pick? The truth is – designs sell! With this in mind, when we were creating our list – we made it our intention to highlight the best yoga shoes that were also stylish and fashionable.
To our surprise, these manufacturers made our research easy. As we began to figure out what the best brands on the market were – these companies were not only the best because of their value and features, but their designs and appeal were notable.
The Cost to Value Ratio
In our opinion, one of the most important aspects that all consumers should take into consideration when evaluating any product is something known as the cost to value ratio. The ratio is the best way for us, as responsible consumers, to find out what a company is offering us and whether or not we will receive a negative or positive ROI for our purchase.
When it comes to the yoga shoe market – the cost to value ratio is critical in highlighting the products that are yoga shoes in comparisons to those that claim to be yoga shoes. If you are interested in calculating the cost to value ratio, what you need to do is start off comparing the prices of the competition.
Top 10 Picks
1. 1. Skechers Women's Meditation-Studio Kicks
Skechers is among the most successful shoe brands in the world. Their designs are always dynamic and stylish. Skechers Meditation-Studio Kicks are no exception. Pose and look pretty in comfort as you wear these shoes.
What They Are
The soles are a sturdy synthetic. The shoes are available in many colors and have dynamic designs that can be put with yoga leggings or other clothes. The upper is a soft, stretchable jersey fabric. An elastic lycra band keeps the foot in place without undue stress on the toes.
The sandal design has a modified casual comfort thong. An instep slide strap is interwoven with the ankle sling thong straps. The braided stretch straps provide custom comfort. A knotted front accents the fabric toe post.
What They Are Not
The yoga shoes have a list of things that they are not. They are not made from t-shirt material that forms a double-stranded wad between the toes that rubs them raw. The shoes do not make a noise as you walk. No one hears you coming as they wrap tightly around the foot.
A slight heel does not leave your flat-footed. They can be worn all day with foot or back pain. The sole is not slippery. There is no need to reposition the foot as you walk. The yoga foam conforms to the shape of the foot.
Cost and Value
Internal stretch bands provide added elasticity. The footbed is comfort cushioned with YOGA FOAM. The shoes have a lightweight midsole and a flexible traction outsole. The flat heel is a ½ inch high.
These yoga shoes are designed in a flip-flap platform that has a padded toe and wraparound fabric straps. They are cheaper than other similar brands. The yoga shoes are semi-dressy, functional, and comfortable.
2. Sanuk Sling 2
With an urban appeal and California vibe, we are eager to share the first of yoga shoes on this list. With an innovative design that can rival some of the coolest flip flops available today. The Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2 Flip Flop is designed and created for maximum comfort without sacrificing appeal and style.
Stretchy Material
What do you think makes yoga shoes ideal? With a stretchy canvas design, yoga shoes are designed for maximum mobility and ease-of-use. These particular yoga shoes are designed as flip-flops, but still offering the same stretchy material that makes them comfortable and usable for all-day wear. With that said, the bottom is made of a padded yoga-mat footbed ensuring that your feet never feel the pressure of the ground below. This feature alone allows for maximum comfort whether you are doing yoga or not.
Machine Wash
Now, this next feature is somewhat unique to this brand. Have you ever tried to wash shoes in the washer to realize that now they are completely ruined? The most exciting aspect of these shoes is that if they get dirty they can be washed in machine wash cold cycle without losing any color and maintaining maximum durability. Once washed, these yoga shoes we'll go back to looking like brand new shoes.
Cost Per Value
As the first product on this list, we wanted to offer a simple yoga shoe for maximum durability. With that said, when considering the cost to value it really depends on the size and color of the shoe. Depending on the color, and are more than 30, the shoe can easily become a bit more expensive than anticipated. However, for the price, a person should expect a long-lasting pair of yoga shoes.
3. Ahnu Flex
As we move towards the end of this list we had to include this genius and properly formulated yoga shoe. Unlike a couple of the other shoes on the list, this shoe is specifically designed for yoga with a redefine technology that allows for maximum breathability and flexibility for any individual. We are eager to share with you one of the best yoga shoes in the industry today, the Ahnu Women's Yoga Flex.
Memory Foam
When practicing yoga, any individual needs to ensure that they are getting the right amount of traction from their feet and shoe. The reason being is that to achieve any pose yoga is a full body experience, therefore, an individual has to be wearing the proper all body gear. With that said, one of the best benefits of this particular yoga shoe is that it includes memory foam for premier comfort. In fact, the memory foam is made from a dual density material that allows the foot to receive the perfect amount of support through every pose.
Breathable
Although yoga is a lot more relaxing than many other workouts, an individual still sweats. Therefore, it is essential for an individual to be wearing complete breathable activewear to ensure comfort for hours. This company knew exactly how important this feature was. Therefore they included a lightweight synthetic upper material with a breathable air mesh system that is also moisture wicking. This type of design allows for full day comfort where the shoe can be worn not just for yoga, but for many other activities as well.
Cost Per Value
Many of the other shoes on this list are partly yoga shoes with the ability to perform other physical activities. However, the manufacturer of these yoga shoes completely focused on producing a high-quality shoe that was specifically for yoga. With yoga Flex technology, we believe that the cost to value for these yoga shoes is well worth it. With that in mind, one would think that the yoga shoes are slightly more expensive but that is because they were specifically designed for yoga. With numerous beautiful color choices, an individual can pick the best design.
4. FitKicks Maritime Collective
Fitkicks are ideal for summer yoga exercise on the beach as you hum ‘om’ without worrying about rocks, stickers, or other objects that can harm the feet. The yoga shoes are super cute and dry quickly.
Design
The shoes are available in solid and contrasting fun, vibrant colors. They feel good and look adorable. The ergonomic design, contouring to the foot, creates a supportive and breathable second skin.
A protective and comfortable microfiber/PU reinforcing toe guard prevents fabric thinning, over-wear tearing, and dragging. Fitkicks Active Footwear is a combination of a slipper, water shoe, fold-and-go travel shoes, and take off your shoes and relax shoes.
Yoga Specific Features
They are quite comfortable for positions, such as Chaturanga Dandasana, that require toe support. The upper material is 100 percent spandex that provides the stretch needed for high impact movement. You can point and flex your foes with ease.
They are engineered to provide natural contour and freedom of movement. An elastic strap is meant for grip and fashion. Travelers love how quickly they can be slipped off at airport security. The folding aspect saves room in your luggage.
Cost and Value
For an all-around shoe, they carry a very affordable price. It is a comfortable pair of shoes that is comfortable on the wallet also. These shoes transition from yoga to gym to everyday to home. Machine or hand wash the shoes and let them air dry.
5. L-Run
On to item number 5, we included this particular well-built shoe on this list because not only women do yoga. We are eager to bring you a unisex water and yoga shoe that acts as a barefoot skin material to ensure maximum comfort and flexibility during any activity. The L-Run Unisex Water and Yoga Barefoot Skin Shoes have been highly touted by hundreds of people. Let's look at what makes them so special.
Slip-On Design
Sometimes all in individual wants to do is put on their shoes without having to worry about tying the laces. This brand makes it easy for an individual to put them on and get going with their day with an easy to wear slip on yoga shoe, which is built with a rubber outsole that provides maximum comfort during any activity. With that in mind, these shoes are designed with a form-fitting construction to make them the ideal shoe for a wide range of activities. Whether you are a dancer or yoga instructor, these shoes are highly recommended thanks to their ergonomic design.
Breathable
The last thing an individual wants while working out, doing yoga, or dancing, is to feel their feet drenched in moisture. Therefore, it is detrimental for a manufacturer to make yoga shoes as breathable as possible. Well, this brand listened to what their audience wanted by supplying and especially perfect shoe for everything from Watersports to Zumba dancing. Highly recommended because of their breathable upper design and soft lining these shoes feel like barefoot skin.
Cost to Value
What makes this manufacturer extremely unique is not only that they are supplying a unique kind of shoe for a unique kind of need, they made the shoe unisex. Now that is customer value that cannot be replaced. With that in mind, the cost of this product is reasonably priced for the amount of value that a person is receiving. With many features such as a slip on design and lightweight breathable material, these shoes are highly recommended by experts in different fields.
6. CIOR Yoga Flats
Whether you are a gymnast, ballerina, a yoga enthusiast, proper Footwear is vital to the success of any activity. With that in mind, we are eager to share with you the universal slippers that are perfect for any dancer, yoga enthusiast, gymnast. Let's talk about the CIOR Ballet Slipper for Girls that also serves as other activity comfort slippers.
Flexible
Whether you are practicing ballet or trying to achieve the perfect yoga pose any item that an individual is wearing has to be made of a breathable and flexible fabric or material. Therefore, these shoes made it on the list for having a durable canvas and leather design that is constructed of extremely high-quality and elastic material. For better form and function there is a drawstring at the top and an attached elastic strap. This is a design element that enhances the confident feel that an individual can exude while achieving any physical activity.
Color and Size
Since these shoes act as form-fitting shoes for particular activities, it is vital for an individual to measure their foot before purchasing these ballet or yoga slippers. However, once that is finalized, an individual can move towards picking out their favorite color. There is an assortment of different color options ranging from white to black to red, so an individual can express himself with the perfect pair of activity slippers.
Cost Per Value
Ballet or yoga both offer a unique design, unlike any other shoe. They are universally known for the best comfort shoes for gymnasts or dancers. However, they add value to all different sorts of industries and people. With that said, the cost to value is determined by the durability and comfort of these shoes. With plenty of positive reviews, we can say that the value surpasses the cost, which is reasonably low considering the intention behind these shoes and the brand that manufactured them.
7. Kealux Barefoot
Moving back towards unisex style yoga shoes, this manufacturer of multifunctional sneakers has designed a uniquely appealing shoe that is perfect for any activity. We are eager to share with you a unique brand that has expertly designed a shoe that is both aesthetically pleasing and extremely durable. Let's cover two notable points about the Kealux Men and Women Multifunctional Sneaker let.
Cooler Material
The last thing any individual desires is to wear sweaty or wet shoes all day. Therefore, this manufacturer has included a top quality sole with several holes on the bottom to ensure air flow. More so, if an individual's feet get wet the shoes will quickly dry, making them perfect for any water sport. However, for the yoga enthusiast, these multifunctional sneakers offer premium comfort and breathability.
Easy To Wear
Alongside construction materials, this manufacturer took into account the importance of easy entry. Therefore, the manufacturer included a pole top at the heel of the shoe so an individual can easily take offer put them on. However, the elasticity of the shoe allows them to become a comfort fit that will not fall off. This type of design makes them ideal to wear during any activity.
Cost to Value
As we have discussed, when it comes to activewear durability, functionality and comfort are of primary importance. We can say that this manufacturer has check marked all of the most important features that should be included in a proper yoga shoe design. With a form-fitting design and breathability, we believe that the price only reflects part of the value. In fact, the cost of the shoe is reasonably priced compared to the competition.
8. Barerun Barefoot
It seems that the Barefoot style technology is known as the go-to activity shoe. Therefore, to end this list we are eager to share with you another Barefoot style shoe that offers plenty of comfort for all sorts of activities ranging from watersports to yoga. With more than 20 styles to choose from, the Barerun Barefoot Quick Dry Water Sport and Yoga Shoe are designed for excellent comfort, durability, and long-lasting usability. Let's look at the two most notable points.
Convenience
When designing this shoe, the manufacturer focused on easy access and convenience. These shoes act as a slip-on, allowing an individual to take them off easily or put them on at a moment's notice. The stretchy and breathable fabric conforms to a person's individual foot size and hugs the foot tight without completely restraining the movement of the foot.
Construction
It is safe to say that during specific activities such as yoga an individual has minimal chances of stepping on sharp objects. However, this was a major concern for the manufacturer of this particular shoe because they wanted individuals to also enjoy the benefits of premier water shoes. Whether you are swimming or snorkeling or simply exploring a new beach, the bottom of the shoes is made from an extremely strong and durable rubber outsole to avoid the person's feet from being injured by sharp objects.
Cost to Value
As the last product on this list, we can say that the design aesthetics of these shoes surpasses the cost. Much like many of the other shoes on this list, these offer the same features in a new and urban design without an overly expensive price. We can say that these shoes are one of the best-built shoes in the industry today for an individual looking for flexibility, breathability, and comfort.
PROS
9. WateLves Aqua Socks
Dedicated yoga practitioners search for quality accessories to add comfort to the time they spend doing yoga. The top priority is the shoe selection. The selection plays a vital role in foot health and balance.
Design
WateLves are designed primarily for beachside activities and yoga practitioners. These particular shoes have highly comfortable rubber soles that ensure flexibility for all movements. Special cushioning has been added for more comfort from inside. An enhanced toe guard offers toe protection.
Drainage holes assist the drying arrangement that ensures a fresh and cool environment inside. Quick dry drainage holes are a unique feature that stands out from competitors. They guarantee proper water flow from the shoe and keep the inner space moisture-free. The feet are free from infection or damage and can stay active.
Yoga and Outdoor Activity Aspects
Balance is necessary during different yoga poses. The body performs from different angles. A slip-resistant shoe is needed to prevent falls and injury. The sole is flexible and sturdy with a grip that prevents slipping.
Impressive elasticity has gained points from those who purchased the shoes. It makes the shoes smooth and comfortable. The shoes protect against injury when stepping on hard surfaces during outdoor activities. All yoga poses and tough outdoor activities can be done in complete freedom.
Cost and Value
The best design elements are the comfortable rubber soles and smooth fabric on the top. They are examples of incredible workmanship. These high-end shoes are used by many outdoor lovers and yoga enthusiasts who are quite satisfied with the remarkable performance.
The shoes are designed using high-quality material that ensures long life service under any harsh conditions. The shoes can also be used for walking or running. They are available in a variety of colors.
10. Vibram Furoshiki Phulkari
Following with a unisex theme, we want to share one of the most stylistic and unique shoes in the industry. Considered and marketed as sneakers, these shoes are decent for both men and women and are made from a fabric perfect for at-home exercise like yoga. Let's talk about the Vibram Men's and Women's Furoshiki Phulkari Sneaker.
Design
Now as we said in the introduction, this may be the most interesting looking shoe on this list. With that said, there is always an audience that desires unique aesthetic design alongside measurable functionality. This is exactly what these shoes offer. The manufacturer has created a unique design where the outsole wraps around your foot because it is made from a top-of-the-line breathable stretch fabric.
Plenty of Color Options
Other than being extremely stretchy and durable, these shoes offer the same qualities from top-of-the-line yoga shoes. With that said, there are over 10 different styles and color options to choose from. Whether your favorite color is red or white, you can look unique and express yourself individually when wearing these shoes.
Cost to Value
When taking the cost to value into consideration for yoga shoes looking at practicality and function may be the most important aspect. However, at times these aspects are at the cost of aesthetics. This is where this brand has succeeded! The value of the shoes is evident thanks to the well-constructed and stretchy fabric. However, it is the unique design that truly turns heads. These yoga shoes are considered more on the expensive end of the stick, but for the pleasing style alone, they are worth your consideration.