Top 11 Best Recovery Shoes | Buoy (2024)

Recovery is an essential aspect of any fitness routine. Whether you are a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, taking care of your body after a workout is crucial to avoid injuries and improve performance. Recovery shoes are a type of footwear designed to support your feet and aid in the recovery process. They are designed to provide cushioning, support, and comfort to your feet, which can help reduce soreness and inflammation.

When it comes to purchasing recovery shoes, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the shoes should be comfortable and provide adequate support to your feet. Secondly, they should be made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. Lastly, they should be easy to clean and maintain, as they will likely be exposed to sweat and other elements during your workout.

We spent hours researching and testing various recovery shoes to identify the best options on the market. In this article, we will share our top picks for the best recovery shoes, along with their key features and benefits. Whether you are a runner, weightlifter, or simply looking for a comfortable pair of shoes to wear after a workout, we've got you covered.

Top 3 Best Recovery Shoes

1. Brace Direct Post Op Recovery Shoe
2. OOFOS - Unisex OOahh Sport - Post Run Recovery Slide Sandal 7 Women/5 Men
3. Vive Closed Post Op Shoe

We know that recovery is just as important as the workout itself. That's why we've put together a list of the best recovery shoes to help you give your feet the rest and support they need after a strenuous workout. Whether you're looking for something to slip on after a long run or a pair to wear around the house, we've got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

If you're looking for a shoe that can help you recover from post-surgery or broken foot, then Brace Direct Post Op Recovery Shoe is a good option.

Pros

• The shoe has a lightweight, breathable shock-absorbing EVA sole that provides maximum airflow and cushion for a faster recovery and no skin irritation.
• The rocker bottom sole and non-skid tread supports provide superior stability and arch support while relieving pain and pressure on the forefoot and heel for a more natural step.
• The shoe has an innovative adjustable 3 medical-grade strap system to ensure a safe and secure fit while accommodating fluctuation of bandaging and swelling.

Cons

• The square open toe design may not be comfortable for everyone.
• The shoe may not be suitable for those with wider feet.
• The shoe may not be suitable for long-term use.

We used the Brace Direct Post Op Recovery Shoe and found it to be comfortable and supportive. The shoe's breathable EVA sole provides good cushioning and airflow, which helps in faster recovery. The adjustable 3 medical-grade strap system ensures a secure fit and accommodates fluctuation of bandaging and swelling. The rocker bottom sole and non-skid tread supports provide good stability and arch support while relieving pain and pressure on the forefoot and heel for a more natural step.

However, the square open toe design may not be comfortable for everyone, and the shoe may not be suitable for those with wider feet. Also, the shoe may not be suitable for long-term use. Overall, if you're looking for a post-surgery or broken foot recovery shoe, the Brace Direct Post Op Recovery Shoe is worth considering.

OOFOS - Unisex OOahh Sport - Post Run Recovery Slide Sandal 7 Women/5 Men

If you're looking for a comfortable and supportive recovery slide, the OOFOS Unisex OOahh Sport is a great choice.

Pros

• The OOfoam technology provides excellent impact absorption, making it ideal for post-workout recovery.
• The patented footbed cradles and supports arches, reducing energy exertion and making walking easier.
• The shoe conforms to your foot for a comfortable and natural fit.

Cons

• Some people may find the high arch support uncomfortable.
• The sizing can be a bit tricky, so be sure to consult the sizing chart before purchasing.
• The slides are a bit pricey compared to other recovery sandals.

We've been wearing the OOFOS Unisex OOahh Sport slides for a few weeks now, and we're impressed with their comfort and support. The OOfoam technology really does absorb more impact than traditional foam materials, and our feet feel less fatigued after wearing these slides for a few hours.

The patented footbed is also a great feature, as it provides excellent arch support and reduces energy exertion in the ankles. We've noticed that our feet and legs feel less tired after walking in these slides compared to other recovery sandals we've tried.

The only downside we've found is that the high arch support may not be comfortable for everyone. It can take a bit of getting used to, especially if you're not used to wearing shoes with a lot of arch support. Additionally, the sizing can be a bit tricky, so be sure to consult the sizing chart before purchasing.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the OOFOS Unisex OOahh Sport slides to anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive recovery sandal. While they may be a bit pricey compared to other options, we think the benefits are worth the investment.

Vive Closed Post Op Shoe

If you're looking for a comfortable and secure post-op walking shoe, the Vive Closed Post Op Shoe is an excellent option.

Pros

• The closed-toe design protects against further injury, infection, and pain, while the adjustable straps provide a secure and customized fit to accommodate dressings or bandages.
• The square-toe design provides extra space for toes to heal comfortably and acts as a bumper to better protect toes from accidental bumps and bruises.
• The rocker sole provides excellent arch support, reducing the pressure on the forefoot and heel to promote natural healing. Each post-op shoe features a non-skid sole for extra stability and traction with each step.

Cons

• The shoe is not very stylish and may not be suitable for everyday wear.
• Some users may find the shoe to be too bulky and heavy.
• The sizing may be a bit off, so make sure to consult the sizing chart before purchasing.

We recently used the Vive Closed Post Op Shoe and were impressed with its comfort and support. The closed-toe design and adjustable straps provided a secure fit, and the square-toe design allowed for ample space for our toes to heal comfortably. The rocker sole provided excellent arch support, and the non-skid sole gave us extra stability and traction with each step.

One thing to keep in mind is that the shoe is not very stylish and may not be suitable for everyday wear. Additionally, some users may find the shoe to be too bulky and heavy. However, if you're looking for a comfortable and secure post-op walking shoe, the Vive Closed Post Op Shoe is an excellent option.

CUSHIONAIRE Women's Feather cloud recovery slide sandals with +Comfort 8

If you're looking for a comfortable and stylish sandal for your tired feet, the CUSHIONAIRE Women's Feather cloud recovery slide sandals with +Comfort 8 Black is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The soft and flexible upper and outsole provide great comfort.
• The molded cushion footbed and non-slip outsole slide offer excellent support and stability.
• The 1.75-inch platform slippers sandal provides a slight lift for those who prefer a bit of height.

Cons

• The sandals may feel slightly narrow for those with wider feet.
• Some customers have reported that the sandals can cause blisters on the sides of their feet from the straps.
• Sizing may run slightly larger than expected.

As someone who has tried these sandals, I can say that they are incredibly comfortable to wear. The soft foam slippers are waterproof, making them perfect for wearing around the house or outside on a rainy day. The +Comfort technology provides excellent cushioning and support, making these sandals ideal for those with foot pain or plantar fasciitis.

The sandals are also stylish and versatile, making them suitable for wearing with a variety of outfits. The black color is classic and easy to match with different styles and colors. The sandals are lightweight, making them easy to pack for travel or wear for extended periods.

Overall, if you're looking for a comfortable and supportive sandal for your tired feet, the CUSHIONAIRE Women's Feather cloud recovery slide sandals with +Comfort 8 Black is an excellent choice. Just be sure to consider the sizing and width before making your purchase.

BraceAbility Post-op Shoe for Broken Foot or Toe

If you're looking for a reliable and comfortable post-op shoe, then BraceAbility Post-op Shoe for Broken Foot or Toe is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The rocker sole and non-skid tread provide extra stability and support after surgeries for broken toes, bunions, hammer toes, Plantar fasciitis, etc.
• The innovative strapping and square-toe design offer a safe and secure fit, with three adjustable medical-grade straps that easily accommodate bandaging and swelling.
• The semi-open style and airflow-friendly material provide enhanced breathability for all-day comfort during rehabilitation.

Cons

• The sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to view the sizing chart before purchasing.
• The shoe may be a bit bulky for some users, making it difficult to wear with regular shoes.
• The hard sole can be uncomfortable for some users, especially if they have sensitive feet.

We recently tried out the BraceAbility Post-op Shoe for Broken Foot or Toe, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The non-slip traction on the rubber sole provided extra stability and support, making it easier to walk after surgery. The rigid rocker bottom supported the arch and relieved pain and pressure on the forefoot and heel for a more natural step.

The innovative strapping and square-toe design provided a safe and secure fit, with three adjustable medical-grade straps that easily accommodated bandaging and swelling. The square toe box acted as a bumper to protect the toes, while the semi-open style and airflow-friendly material provided enhanced breathability for all-day comfort during rehabilitation.

However, the sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to view the sizing chart before purchasing. The shoe may be a bit bulky for some users, making it difficult to wear with regular shoes. Additionally, the hard sole can be uncomfortable for some users, especially if they have sensitive feet.

Overall, we would recommend the BraceAbility Post-op Shoe for Broken Foot or Toe for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable post-op shoe.

OOFOS Women's OOmg Slip-On Recovery Shoe

If you're looking for a comfortable shoe that can aid in the recovery process, the OOFOS Women's OOmg Slip-On Recovery Shoe is worth considering.

Pros

• The OOfoam technology absorbs more impact than traditional footwear foam materials, reducing stress on your feet and joints.
• The patented footbed design cradles and supports arches, making walking easier and recovery faster.
• The 4-way stretch mesh upper conforms to your feet, providing a comfortable fit.

Cons

• Some customers find that the shoe runs a bit smaller than OOFOS unisex sandals, so you may want to size up.
• The minimalist construction may not provide enough support for those with severe foot or joint issues.
• The shoe may not be suitable for all types of terrain or activities.

The OOFOS Women's OOmg Slip-On Recovery Shoe features a breakthrough in shoe construction that eliminates unnecessary layers, leaving only OOfoam between your foot and the ground. The result is a shoe that enhances the recovery process and provides natural movement. The shoe is machine washable and designed to minimize odor.

The 4-way stretch mesh upper and stretchable strap add support over the arch without binding, making the shoe comfortable to wear all day, every day. The shoe is lightweight, weighing only 5.5 oz for women's size 7.

Overall, the OOFOS Women's OOmg Slip-On Recovery Shoe is a great option for those looking for a comfortable shoe that can aid in the recovery process. However, it may not be suitable for all types of terrain or activities, and some customers may need to size up.

OOFOS Recovery Thong Sandal

If you are looking for a comfortable and supportive recovery shoe, the OOFOS Recovery Thong Sandal is a great option.

Pros

• The OOfoam technology provides excellent shock absorption and reduces stress on your feet, joints, and back.
• The patented footbed design cradles and supports arches, making walking easier and recovery faster.
• Backed by science, OOFOS shoes are designed to reduce load, decrease compressive forces, and support foot mobility.

Cons

• The toe bar is quite thick, which may cause discomfort or blisters for some users.
• The sizing may run large, so it's best to order a size smaller than your usual size.
• While the design is sleek, the sandal may not be suitable for formal occasions.

We recently tried the OOFOS Recovery Thong Sandal after a long run, and it felt like walking on clouds. The OOfoam technology provided excellent shock absorption, and our feet felt less tired and sore. The patented footbed design also cradled and supported our arches, making walking easier and recovery faster.

One thing to note is that the toe bar is quite thick, which may cause discomfort or blisters for some users. Additionally, the sizing may run large, so it's best to order a size smaller than your usual size. While the design is sleek, the sandal may not be suitable for formal occasions.

Overall, we highly recommend the OOFOS Recovery Thong Sandal for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive recovery shoe.

HOKA ONE ONE Women's Ora Recovery Flip Sandal

We highly recommend the HOKA ONE ONE Women's Ora Recovery Flip Sandal for anyone in need of comfortable recovery shoes after a long run or workout.

Pros

• The ethylene vinyl acetate sole provides excellent cushioning and support for tired feet.
• The black/dark gull gray color combination is stylish and versatile.
• The HOKA ONE ONE brand is well-known for high-quality running shoes, so you can trust the brand's expertise in creating a recovery shoe.

Cons

• The straps on the sandal may not fit securely on all foot types, particularly those with high arches.
• The sandal may not be suitable for extended periods of walking on uneven terrain, as it may cause blisters.
• The sandal is relatively expensive compared to other recovery shoe options.

In our experience, the HOKA ONE ONE Women's Ora Recovery Flip Sandal is incredibly comfortable and supportive. The ethylene vinyl acetate sole provides a cushiony feel that is perfect for tired feet, and the black/dark gull gray color combination is both stylish and versatile.

However, we did notice that the straps on the sandal may not fit securely on all foot types, particularly those with high arches. Additionally, we found that extended periods of walking on uneven terrain may cause blisters. Finally, the sandal is relatively expensive compared to other recovery shoe options.

Overall, we believe that the HOKA ONE ONE Women's Ora Recovery Flip Sandal is an excellent choice for anyone in need of comfortable recovery shoes after a long run or workout.

Dr. Scholl's ® Revitalize Recovery Insole Orthotics

If you're looking for a comfortable and effective way to relieve foot pain and fatigue, the Dr. Scholl's ® Revitalize Recovery Insole Orthotics are a great option.

Pros

• Refreshes your feet, it's like a foot massage with every step.
• The targeted stimulating bubbles impact thousands of nerves in the feet that trigger key pressure points.
• Full length impact-reducing cushioning distributes foot pressure, reducing stress and energy exertion on overloaded muscles & joints.

Cons

• Not suitable for those who need strong arch support.
• May not fit perfectly in all types of shoes.
• Some users report that the insoles wear out quickly with regular use.

We've tried these insoles in a variety of shoes, including athletic running shoes, work shoes and boots, casual shoes, and house slippers. They're a game-changer for foot comfort and overall well-being, whether you're an athlete, on your feet all day, or recovering from an injury.

The targeted stimulating bubbles impact thousands of nerves in the feet that trigger key pressure points, alleviating sore foot pain, reducing stress and fatigue, improving circulation, building balance, and helping you become more aware of your posture. The insoles are designed to help improve foot sensation for those with neuropathy. Superior cushioning helps ease recovery from arthritis, Morton's neuroma, metatarsalgia, & sprains and stress fractures in the foot.

The full length impact-reducing cushioning distributes foot pressure, reducing stress and energy exertion on overloaded muscles & joints. This helps soothe your feet, legs, and lower back. By reducing muscle fatigue, they help prevent soreness while reducing foot discomfort, allowing you to stay on your feet longer and recover more effectively, making you feel better and more energized.

The insoles are also easy to customize to your desired size and shape. Simply trim along the guidelines to achieve the perfect fit for your shoes. And with Polygiene Stay Fresh Technology long lasting odor control, you won't have to worry about unpleasant smells.

Overall, the Dr. Scholl's ® Revitalize Recovery Insole Orthotics are a great investment for anyone looking to improve their foot comfort and overall well-being.

Snug Leaves Men's Non-slip Sport Recovery Slide

If you're looking for a comfortable pair of sandals that can help relieve foot pain and fatigue, the Snug Leaves Men's Non-slip Sport Recovery Slide might be worth checking out.

Pros

• The sandals have good shock absorption and cushioning, which can make them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
• The ergonomic design of the sandals can help relieve tension in your leg muscles, making them a good choice for people who have tired feet after exercise.
• The deep heel cup and thickened sole can help stabilize your heel and reduce the risk of knee injury and foot fatigue.

Cons

• The sizing of these sandals can be a bit tricky, as they are designed to be smaller in order to provide good skid resistance. It's recommended that you select three sizes larger than you normally wear.
• Some reviewers have noted that the arch support is not very pronounced, which may be an issue for people with plantar fasciitis.
• The sandals are made of EVA foam, which may not be as durable as other materials.

We recently tried out the Snug Leaves Men's Non-slip Sport Recovery Slide and found them to be quite comfortable. The sandals have a nice cushioned feel and the deep heel cup and thickened sole provide good support. However, we did find that the sizing was a bit tricky and had to order a larger size than we normally wear.

Overall, we think the Snug Leaves Men's Non-slip Sport Recovery Slide could be a good choice for people who are looking for a comfortable pair of sandals to wear after exercise or for everyday use. However, if you have plantar fasciitis or are looking for a more durable option, you may want to consider other options.

RMS Premium 7-Piece Hip Knee Replacement Kit

If you're recovering from hip or knee replacement surgery, or any leg injury, the RMS Premium 7-Piece Hip Knee Replacement Kit is a must-have product to aid in your recovery.

Pros

• The kit comes with all the essential tools required for post-surgery recovery.
• The grabbers are reliable and better than other clamping grabbers.
• The non-slip rubberized jaw allows you to pick up even small items like a dime.

Cons

• The sock helper may stretch out female socks.
• The short grabber may not be useful for extra-long reach.
• The instructions may not be clear for some users.

Our experience with this product is that it has been very helpful during our post-surgery recovery. The kit contains all the necessary tools, including two rotating grabber reachers, a 42-inch leg lifter strap, a sock aid, a 28-inch dressing aid stick, a 22-inch bath sponge, and a 24-inch long shoe horn.

The 32-inch and 19-inch reacher grabbers are designed to rotate a full 90 degrees for use both vertically and horizontally. The 19-inch short grabber is ideal for use in a car, wheelchair, or doing grocery shopping. The 32-inch long reacher can easily reach an item on top shelves or pick up dropped items. The nonslip rubberized jaw allows you to pick up as small as a dime.

The loop leg lifter is rigid and durable, designed for repositioning the leg in a car, wheelchair, or on a bed after hip replacement surgery, knee or back surgery, or leg injury. The lifter strap is strong enough to handle leg casts with ease.

The 28-inch dressing stick comes with a large vinyl coated "S" hook to assist with putting on shirts, pulling up pants, skirts, or helping put on shoes or removing socks. The vinyl coated "C" hook on the opposite end is for pulling zippers and shoelace loops.

The sock aid allows you to easily put on socks or stocking without bending over. The 22-inch long bath sponge makes bathing without bending and twisting easier. The 24-inch long shoe horn is included to easily put on any type of shoe while standing.

Overall, we highly recommend the RMS Premium 7-Piece Hip Knee Replacement Kit for anyone who is recovering from hip or knee replacement surgery or any leg injury. It has been invaluable during our recovery period.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best recovery shoes, there are several features you should consider to ensure you get the most comfortable and supportive shoe for your needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best recovery shoes:

Material

The material used in the shoe is an important consideration when choosing the best recovery shoes. Look for shoes made from breathable and lightweight materials such as mesh or knit to ensure your feet remain cool and dry. Additionally, shoes made from flexible materials such as neoprene or elastane provide a comfortable fit, allowing your feet to move freely.

Cushioning

Cushioning is another important feature to consider when choosing the best recovery shoes. Look for shoes with adequate cushioning to absorb shock and protect your feet from impact. Shoes with memory foam or gel cushioning provide excellent shock absorption and are ideal for those who spend long hours on their feet.

Arch Support

Arch support is essential for those with flat feet or high arches. Look for shoes with adequate arch support to prevent foot fatigue and pain. Shoes with removable insoles provide the flexibility to customize the level of arch support to your specific needs.

Sole

The sole of the shoe is another important feature to consider when choosing the best recovery shoes. Look for shoes with a durable and non-slip sole to provide traction and prevent slips and falls. Shoes with a grooved or textured sole provide excellent grip, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

Fit

Finally, ensure that the shoe fits properly to provide maximum support and comfort. Look for shoes with a snug fit that do not slip or rub against your feet. Shoes with adjustable straps or laces provide the flexibility to customize the fit to your specific needs.

In summary, when choosing the best recovery shoes, consider the material, cushioning, arch support, sole, and fit to ensure maximum comfort and support for your feet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should we look for in a recovery shoe?

When looking for a recovery shoe, it is important to find a shoe that provides ample cushioning and support. Look for shoes made with materials that absorb shock and reduce pressure on your feet, such as EVA foam or memory foam. Additionally, consider shoes with a contoured footbed that provides arch support and helps distribute weight evenly across the foot.

Can recovery shoes be worn all day?

While recovery shoes are designed to provide comfort and support, it is not recommended to wear them all day. It is important to give your feet a break and allow them to move and flex naturally. Wearing recovery shoes for extended periods of time can lead to muscle weakness and fatigue.

Which recovery sandals are best?

There are many great recovery sandals on the market, but some of the most popular options include OOFOS, HOKA ONE ONE, and Adidas Adilette. When choosing a recovery sandal, look for one with a contoured footbed, ample cushioning, and a supportive strap system.

Is there a shoe comparable to OOFOS?

While OOFOS is a popular brand of recovery shoes, there are many other great options on the market. Some comparable brands include HOKA ONE ONE, Brooks, and New Balance. When choosing a recovery shoe, it is important to find one that fits your specific needs and preferences.

What are the best recovery slides for plantar fasciitis?

When dealing with plantar fasciitis, it is important to find a shoe that provides ample arch support and cushioning. Some of the best recovery slides for plantar fasciitis include OOFOS OOahh Slides, HOKA ONE ONE Ora Recovery Slides, and Vionic Relax Slides.

What are the best recovery shoes for women?

There are many great recovery shoes for women, but some of the most popular options include OOFOS OOmg Low Shoes, HOKA ONE ONE Hupana Slip-On Shoes, and Brooks Levitate 2. When choosing a recovery shoe, it is important to find one that fits your specific needs and preferences.