I have to admit—I’m not a winter person. Snow, cold weather, and I don’t really get along. I have a circulatory condition called Raynaud’s syndrome, which causes the blood flow to my fingers and toes to constrict in colder temperatures. That means my extremities can sometimes go numb in the cold, which makes keeping warm even more important. I’m always on the hunt for ways to keep my fingers and toes warm and toasty.

Lately, I’ve been trying to focus on the quality and longevity of the products I buy. I want to make sure what I purchase will last—not just to save money (though that’s definitely a perk), but also to reduce waste. I’ve tried to apply this mindset to everything I buy now. One area where this shift in thinking made a big difference was slippers.

Why I Needed New Slippers

For years, I was buying a new pair every winter. Whether the soles wore out or they started to smell (let’s be honest, no one likes smelly feet!), I kept replacing them. These slippers were usually cheap, but it felt kind of silly to be throwing them away every year. I decided it was time to find a pair that would last—not just for a season, but hopefully for life.

A few years ago, I went all-in on slipper research. It felt a little crazy, but I scoured Google, Reddit, you name it, searching for the perfect pair. After what felt like a deep dive into a slipper rabbit hole, I landed on the Giesswein Vent slippers. I’ve had these slippers for four years, and they’ve held up wonderfully, still just as comfy as when I first bought them.

Why Wool Makes Giesswein Vent Slippers Stand Out

I’ve mentioned before that I love wool, and for good reason. Wool is temperature-regulating, so I can wear these slippers year-round without worrying about my feet getting too hot or cold. It’s breathable and moisture-wicking, so my feet don’t overheat, and the slippers dry quickly if they get damp. Unlike synthetic fabrics that trap heat and make my feet sweat, wool keeps things just right.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

With most slippers, I never felt like I could wash them. They’d get dirty, and I’d just have to toss them. With the Giesswein slippers, I can throw them right in the washing machine! Every few months, I toss them in to keep them fresh. No more grimy slippers!

The insoles are also removable, which means when they start to wear out, I don’t have to replace the entire pair of slippers. Instead, I can just buy new insoles. I even found a local alpaca farm that sells them. When the insoles have reached the end of their life, I can toss them in the compost pile, making this a great eco-friendly option.

Wearable Inside and Out

While I mainly wear my slippers indoors, these are durable enough to handle a quick trip outside. With a non-slip rubber outsole, I can scoot to the recycling bin or walk around in my basement without worrying about slipping or cold concrete. The sturdy sole keeps my feet insulated from the chill.

A Smart Investment

While the upfront cost seemed high, the long-lasting quality makes them a better deal over time. To me, this makes it worth the initial investment. I paid about $90 for my first pair, but I scored a second pair on Mercari for $35. Even though that felt like a splurge at the time, it’s paid off in the long run. After four years, I’ve already gotten my money’s worth. I expect these slippers to last at least another four years (maybe even longer—I’m aiming for a lifetime here!), which brings the cost down to just over $30 per year. And after eight years, that’s under $15 a year. Given how long they’ve lasted, I’d say they’re a solid investment.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Slippers

Not buying slippers every year helps reduce waste and makes me feel better about my environmental footprint. Wool is a renewable resource, so by choosing wool slippers, I’m making a more sustainable decision. Plus, wool is biodegradable, making these slippers a more eco-friendly option compared to synthetic materials. With their long-lasting durability, these slippers are not only kind to my feet but also to the planet.

Honorable Mention: Gerlups

While Giesswein Vent slippers ended up being my choice, I also found Gerlups to be a solid option during my research. I haven’t tried them myself, but they’re recommended by others as a good choice if you’re looking for slippers with a rubber sole and an easy slip-on style. I liked the adjustable cord on the Giesswein Vent slippers because it keeps them securely on my feet. But if you prefer something that’s easier to slip on and off, Gerlups might be a good option to consider.

If you’re tired of replacing slippers every year, give these a try—you might just find a pair that lasts for life!

Curious to hear if you’ve tried these, or any other durable slippers you’d recommend.  Leave me a note in the comments!