Over the past few years, one thing about the recovery category has become apparent — the number of brands offering recovery footwear and the types of footwear they are offering has seen a spike. And as the latest crop of recovery footwear from a variety of brands reflects, consumers are seeking more than just function and comfort — they are also seeking style.  

“Many consumers are looking for recovery footwear to wear more casually – it’s no longer limited to post-workout molded, athletic slides,” explained Amanda Butler, design director for Vionic. Pepper Harward, CEO of Oka Brands, which recently launched a new recovery-focused line under the Oka name, noted that “The health and wellness benefits are becoming clear to athletes, and to all people who do hard things with their bodies.” The exec is witnessing “a new energy in the recovery category” as now is the time “for new brands to build on the recovery foundation with fresh silhouettes and fun colorways – or new benefits like 100% recyclable and Made in the USA.” Topo Athletic Product Manager Russ Stevens echoes the sentiment. “We feel the biggest opportunity in recovery is working to improve on the versatility and aesthetic appeal of the product,” he said.

While recovery shoes can no doubt be very technical, they also cross over to the casual customer seeking a comfort shoe. When OOFOS designer Dan Hobson created OOmy Zen, he drew inspiration from wanting to recreate that feeling of slipping on a slide while also wearing socks. It’s that sweatshirt-like hug for the feet that resonates across the board. “Recovery footwear has everyday implications to help you feel better throughout the day and outside of workouts,” noted Darren Brown, head of marketing for OOFOS, adding, “As such, it is necessary to provide styling options that fit a wide variety of lifestyles and wearing occasions, so that anyone can experience the benefits of OOfoam technology, which go beyond comfort.” Customer feedback has shown that many customers who start off with an OOFOS sandal or slide return to purchase new styles (like closed-toe options) “so they can implement active recovery into all aspects of their lives,” he continued.

Measuring The Marketplace

While one exec noted that the space can appear to be overcrowded, there is a unique space for footwear that provides genuine active recovery (with the technology to back it up). “The category is growing for sure and more consumers are wanting the benefits of technical recovery footwear, while also being stylish,” explained Velous Footwear Founder Tim Bartels. Velous has gained momentum in offering a recovery shoe that provides more than just a super soft foam or really firm foam. “We provide a more technical solution and all-around support and cushion,” he said.

Kane Footwear CEO John Gagliardi, whose brand launched in 2021, views growth in the category as a win for all. “The more attention the category receives, the more educated consumers are on the importance of recovery,” he commented.

VIONIC/LOTUS

Meet the Lotus RX Recovery Slide. This easy slip-on, closed-toe design is crafted for rejuvenation, featuring a soft, lightweight EVA removable footbed with textured mapping for soothing massaging relief. The comfort heel cradles the foot, while a premium leather upper with hook-and-loop closure provides adjustability. MSRP $120.

OOFOS/OOMY ZEN

A fit for everyday wear thanks to a blend of seamless knit and OOfoam technology, this shoe has an engineered seamless circular knit upper that hugs the heel and provides a secure, sock-like fit for flexibility and mobility. The footbed design enhances impact absorption and stability with every step. MSRP $159.95.

OKA/SUSTAINABLE ACTIVE RECOVERY FLIP FLOP

According to the brand, only about half of one percent of shoes are Made in the USA. Oka both sources and manufactures all of its products domestically. The flip flop is 100% recyclable and also zero waste capable. A deep sole traction and footbed pattern are specifically designed to increase circulation, add more stability compared to other recovery options and provide recovery benefits for longer with slower wear-down. MSRP $49.95.

ROLL RECOVERY/SUPERPLUSH FLIP FLOP

The SUPERPLUSH line was created to promote overall foot health, building on the brand’s holistic approach to recovery that began with its massage devices. A SUPERPLUSH foam midsole uses BLOOM Foam Technology (with algae) to reduce its carbon footprint. A CRADLE DESIGN Structured Footbed balances comfort and structure, with an ergonomic “cocoon effect.” MSRP $69.

KANE FOOTWEAR/REVIVE AC

Consumers asked for it, so Kane execs took years in development to deliver this recovery shoe for all weather and all conditions. The Revive AC has many of the recovery components of the original Revive (made of bio-based closed-cell RestoreFoam, doesn’t absorb moisture), but with added durability and cold weather considerations. MSRP $120.

VELOUS/ACTIVE ADJUSTABLE SLIDE

The Active Adjustable Slide boasts springy new hues for the season – taupe, light blue and light pink. The shoe provides a custom fit across the instep and comes with Tri-Motion technology, providing cushion and arch support for all day comfort. All Velous sandals are approved by the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) for promoting great foot health. MSRP $69.95.

HOKA/ORA PRIMO

This statement-making silhouette delivers the same recovery quotient as its predecessor. The new Ora Primo has been updated with a soft knit collar, elastic lace system and insulated puff upper for that works for all seasons. The slip-on design and round elastic lace system make for easy on and off. MSRP: $120.

JSLIDES/URBAN SPORT CORA

The Cora has a multi-directional stretch knit upper with ventilation holes, making it a breathable, everyday option. A two-layer memory foam insole is removable, allowing for customization. Its slip on construction provides an easy on/off, secure fit. MSRP $89.

TEVA/APRETRAIL

This all gender option is built on an ULTRA-COMF foam footbed for underfoot comfort. Rubberized pods on the outsole provide grippy traction. Ideal for post adventure wear, camping and the everyday commuting adventure, the ApreTrail is lightweight, can float in water and has holes in the straps built to clip to a backpack. MSRP $50.

TOPO ATHLETIC/REVIVE

Built to aid in active recovery, as well as for everyday wear, the Revive’s slipper design features a polyester fleece upper for a soft and comfy fit. Designed to be worn without socks, the brand’s 3D Wave Sense insole gently massages the bottom of the foot. A Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole offers multi-surface traction and durability for year-round wear. MSRP $120.