Another "ugly" shoe trend? In 2021? I know, groundbreaking. Between the proliferation of Birkenstock slides and cool clogs bubbling up, there's a clear trend happening with comfortable, good-for-you footwear that your podiatrist would approve of.

 These days, we're leaving the house more often, so it makes sense that styles like slides, slippers, and loafers are so popular since they can be easily worn both out and at home. Now, there's a new shoe trend on our radars, and it's hitting peak comfort. Meet recovery slides.

I'd seen extra-comfy, cushiony slides popping up on my Instagram feed, but once I heard the trendspotting experts at WGSN get behind them, I knew this was a trend to watch. Not only does it address the need for easy shoes that can go indoors and out, but what really defines it is its wellness component. According to WGSN's footwear and accessories editor, Lucila Saldana, the slides originated as "an easy-to-wear style that provides further comfort support and helps the feet to recover after exercising," but now that the overall concept of wellness is taking off, recovery slides are in high demand as well.