Written by: Logan Lloyd
As I returned to campus for the fall semester, there was one inescapable sound that seemed to follow me everywhere—the steady click-clack metronome of flip-flops hitting the sidewalk. From freshmen to seniors, across genders and social circles, in 2026, flip-flops have been the shoe heard around the world. I, too, have been an enthusiastic participant in the trend. Unfortunately, though, all good things must come to an end, and, upon feeling a cool, damp November breeze over my exposed feet, I was forced to admit that it was time to put my Havaianas into storage. But as the temperature continues to drop, what shoe will emerge as a worthy replacement?
To answer this question, we must first examine what draws us to flip-flops in the first place. As far as style goes, they embody the whimsy and nostalgia-driven fashion of the past season, conjuring up memories of beach days and emitting an aura of laid-back cool. Moreover, iterations such as flip-flop wedges and heels are callbacks to the early-2000s trends whose comeback has defined 2020s style. From a more practical standpoint, flip-flops offer numerous advantages. Foremost is their convenience; there are no laces, buckles, or zippers, allowing for hands-free wear. You can put them on as you walk out the door, which in addition contributes to their versatility—the same comfy shoe you slip on to check your mailbox or walk the dog can be dressed up and paired with a casual class outfit or even a summer dress. And versatility goes hand-in-hand with variety: flip-flops are offered in a range of different materials, styles, and colors. From classic foam platforms to leather embroidery and embellished straps, there are numerous options for everyone.
The counterpart to the flip-flop, then, needs similar characteristics. After intensive research (online shopping and consulting numerous social media comment sections), I’ve found a few formidable contestants. Evaluating based on three core characteristics—ease of wear, versatility, and variety—this article will put these shoes to the test, and, hopefully, help you find a winter shoe staple!
Birkenstock Boston Clog
Birkenstocks have their open-toed heyday in the summer, but the brand also offers styles suitable for colder weather, including the bestselling Boston Clog. This slip-on shoe combines Birkenstock’s classic cork footbed with a closed upper, which comes in a variety of options, including suede, oiled leather, shearling, and even EVA foam. Colors range from neutral tans and browns to bright pink and baby blue, with select styles even available in snakeskin or cheetah print. The Boston certainly measures up to flip-flops in terms of variety! However, Birkenstocks fall victim to some of the same flaws as flip-flops: small openings in the upper and an open heel may expose feet to winter wind and slush, and cork isn’t necessarily the most weatherproof material. The brand does sell various shoe care kits, but cork sealer can only do so much against a Wisconsin winter.
Ease of Wear: 10/10
Versatility: 7.5/10
Variety: 10/10
UGG Tasman Slipper
UGG’s various boots are mainstays in the winter footwear scene, but in recent years, their line of slippers has entered the spotlight. The Tasman base model, like most UGG offerings, is composed of a suede leather outer lined with warm, fluffy sheep fur. This shoe is extremely well-suited for winter: reviews praise the warmth the inner lining provides, and while they are easy to slip into, the heel remains covered during wear. Though the upper isn’t waterproof, it is thick enough that snow only poses a cosmetic threat—which can be avoided simply by applying a protectant spray the brand sells on their website. Unfortunately, the Tasman isn’t available in as wide a range of options as flip-flops, offering a smaller range of brown and black colorways. A few bolder colors are available as part of a limited seasonal collection, so if the Tasman is piquing your interest, be sure to act soon!
Ease of Wear: 10/10
Versatility: 9/10
Variety: 6/10
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats have been having a moment for the past few years, so why not incorporate them into your winter wardrobe? Ballet flats come in a multitude of colors, nearly giving flip-flops a run for their money. A quick search shows options in vibrant colors and patterns as well as unique textures like velvet and satin. They are relatively easy to pop on, especially those variants without straps or buckles. Depending on the material, though, ballet flats might not hold up to winter weather, and may expose the top of the foot to the elements of the weather. If you do choose these as your daily winter shoe, try to pair them with a cute pair of socks!
Ease of Wear: 7.5/10
Versatility: 5.5/10
Variety: 10/10
Low temperatures and biting wind have me looking wistfully at the flip-flops I’ve packed away, but hopefully, these suggestions will help spark your inspirations for winter dressing. Though the flip-flop may be the pinnacle of footwear, the options above are great alternatives for the frostier times ahead. Ultimately, the perfect winter shoe comes down to personal style and priorities. As you consider all your alternatives, consider taking the ease, versatility, and variety that make flip-flops special into account.
Edited by: Claudia Rothberg, Jordyn Salahiddine-Rose and Kate Kowalczyk
