TIME's new line of footwear began as a Kickstarter project to make high-end slippers designed to look like sneakers. They're now available for sale to the public in three styles: lows, mids, and high-tops (I tried out the highs). They look quite a bit different than the Kickstarter prototypes (much better, in my opinion), but the basics are pretty much what the designers had in mind at the outset of their crowdfunding campaign: Super soft leather uppers that are both flexible and strong. Insoles made out of the same material as yoga mats. Linings that are cozy but don't cause sweaty feet. Stretch laces that make the shoes easy to slip on.
The results are pretty great. TIME's slippers are convenient, durable, and super comfortable. And while they're pricey—you probably haven't ever spent over $100 on slippers before—they look enough like outdoor shoes that you can easily get away with wearing them to hit the gym or go do errands. So you'll get more use out of them than you would with standard house shoes.
Straight up, these are just about the most comfortable things I've ever had on my feet. The soles are super flexible, but not flimsy. The wool lining is warm but breathable. And TIME's designers made lots of smart choices that make these extra easy to wear. For instance, there's a small slot above the heel that you grip with your thumb and use to take the slippers on and off. That might sound superfluous, but having the feature on these has made me want something similar on all of my high-tops.
I really like these. And I don't mind spending a little extra money on things that I really like. But $150 is a lot for high-top slippers! Even the low-tops are $95. If you do decide to wear them out into the real world, you'll notice that the bright white midsoles will begin to look dirty pretty quickly, and that they're a little difficult to scrub clean. I wish there was an option to get these in all-black. I'd like the look better, and black midsoles would keep the slippers looking fresher a little longer.
8/10 Excellent with room to kvetch
