isotoner Ultra Soft Machine Washable Slipper Socks

Hardwood floors and kitchen tiles convey a warm, cozy feel just about any time of the year — unless it happens to winter and you happen to be in bare feet. There no awakening quite so rude as that first freezing step onto a cold floor in the morning.

Luckily, that’s exactly why slipper socks were created. These are the socks your feet look forward to sliding into at the end of the day. They come in a variety of shapes, colors and materials, but good slipper socks have one thing in common: They’re a godsend to cold feet and a potential life-saver for seniors.

When choosing this garment, it’s all about comfort first and foremost. Any old pair of knit socks can provide that, but for how long? You’ll want a material that’s thick yet breathable, lightweight yet durable.

Every fabric has its pros and cons. Wool is one of the most common materials for slipper socks, with good reason. It’s soft, water-resistant and keeps your feet super cozy, even in cold weather. On the other hand, it can be difficult to wash — and poorly made wool garments of any type will wear down quickly with enough friction.

Polyester-nylon blends are another common type. These socks will generally be less expensive and tend to last longer than other types of socks, though results vary wildly by brand. These socks are great for most types and sizes of feet, as the nylon lets the material stretch while the polyester keeps them durable. They’re also easy to care for in most household washing machines.

Cotton is soft and breathable, though that effectiveness can be worn down if your feet get too sweaty or wet. Then, of course, there are bamboo or microfiber slipper socks that can insulate your feet surprisingly well with very little material – at a significant uptick in price.

Fit matters too. Slimmer feet are better served by a “ballerina” style that hugs the lower part of the feet and allows for a little more movement. Wider feet are usually more comfortable either in “scuff socks” that you can slip on without touching or calf-length socks made of a stretchier material.

Seniors with poor circulation will definitely want to go with more coverage and thicker material. They’ll also want to go for something with non-slip material on the soles. These rubber pads are useful for just about anyone on slippery kitchen floors, but they can be a real boon to fall-prone elders.

• Slipper socks see a lot of use, so make sure you take care of them. Always follow the washing instructions, and you might consider hand washing bamboo, nylon or other sensitive fabric if you see any pilling (little balls of lint on the surface of the slipper).
• Don’t have a pair of non-slip socks? You can always create your own. Just apply some dots of puff paint to the underside of the socks, focusing on the toes and heel. Allow to dry for 24 hours, and you’ve got a textured surface that will stop skids and falls on those slick kitchen floors.