House Slippers For Men - What Shoes Should Men Wear At Home?

I’ll level with you, gents. You can’t wear your double monk straps around the house – your carpet would get ruined. It’s a sad fact, I know.

So what’s a stylish guy to do? Walk around in nothing but crew socks? No thanks!

Your feet could get cold and who knows what you could step on? (If you’re a dad like me, the answer’s probably Lego bricks!)

So what’s the solution?

It’s easier than you think – wear a comfortable pair of quality house slippers for men. They’re great for elevating your style while in the comfort of your own home.

But with so many varieties out there – which do you choose?

It depends a lot on your lifestyle. That’s why it’s my goal to help you discover which house slippers are best for you.

1. What Are Considered House Slippers?

Put simply; a house slipper is a slip-on style of footwear that features a thin sole and soft construction.

As opposed to a standard dress shoe, house slippers are worn indoors and do not have soles designed for traction. However, some hybrid options exist – a topic we will discuss later.

2. History Of House Slippers

In Europe, the house slipper dates back to the 16th century when high-status men wore slippers made from luxurious materials (like silk or velvet) to demonstrate their superiority and great fortunes.

However, house slippers date back even further than this in Asian culture. Historians estimate that the house slipper made its first appearance in China around 4700BCE.

In many Asian countries, there is an age-old practice of taking off outside shoes before entering the home. House slippers played a significant role in this tradition as the indoor alternative for outdoor footwear. They came to represent the transition between the inside and outside worlds.

Even the Ancient Romans wore house shoes. Most people think the Romans only wore sandals, but archeologists have uncovered over 2000 examples of Roman thongs, shoes and ankle-boots in the ruins of Ancient Roman villas.

With that out of the way, let’s break down the four different styles of house slippers to help you look as stylish indoors as you do outside.

3. Closed-Back House Slippers

Across the world, the closed-back slipper is one of the most popular styles found in men’s closets.

Commonly – this slipper style features a thick rubber sole suitable for wearing both indoors and out. Closed-back house slippers are often made from wool or cotton to provide comfort and warmth.

Ultimately, the traditional closed-back is the perfect style if you’re looking for a versatile pair of house slippers that have the potential to be used lightly outdoors – for example, when taking out the trash.

4. Mule House Slippers

The mule-style house slipper is one of the most minimalistic designs on the market. Typically, they feature the comfort and functionality of a closed-back house slipper – minus the enclosed heel.

Mule house slippers are the fastest to slip on but lack the hold of a fully enclosed design. In short – consider these house slippers as indoor footwear and nothing more.

Ultimately, the mule is the perfect option for men who want an indoor-only house slipper because they provide comfort, function, and warmth.

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5. Moccasin House Slippers

Inspired and named after the slip-on shoes worn by many Native American people, the Moccasin has solidified itself as one of the best house slippers for men due to its versatility. A stitch connects the midsole and the upper of the slipper, which gives them a weather-resistant, sturdy design.

In addition, a leather or sheepskin design further increases durability and provides this house slipper with a more shoe-like appearance. This style is the most suited to outdoor use – like taking the dog out for a short walk or collecting your mail from your mailbox.

The Moccasin style also features different levels of warmth ranging from thin and soft to thick and plush.

6. Albert Slippers

Okay, gents – this is where house slippers for men get a bit more classy.

The elegant design of the Albert slipper dates back to the 1800s. Shoemakers introduced this slipper as a practical indoor shoe that men could wear outside. Named after Prince Albert himself, high-class men wore them to protect the expensive floors of stately homes from the dirt and grime of the outside world.

Traditionally, Albert slippers feature a velvet construction with a quilted lining. They have a thin yet sturdy leather sole suited to indoor flooring and some outdoor terrains.

I know what you’re thinking – you’ve seen this style before, right? It’s no surprise – the Albert slipper has a longstanding history in pop culture and Hollywood, having been worn by the likes of James Bond and Hugh Hefner.

There you have it, gents. Everything you need to know about the best quality slippers for men. My advice would be to think about your needs and lifestyle and go for what feels right.

Now that you’ve got your indoor shoes sorted, what about the outside? Click here to discover the 10 Shoes Every Man Should Own.