Slippers Buying Guide & Comparison

Men's leather slippers and women's suede mule slippers beside a country-house fire

Find the right slippers for comfort at home

Compare leather house slippers, suede mules, moccasins and warm Western-inspired styles by fit, lining, sole and ease of wear.

The best slippers depend on how much warmth and heel security you want, how quickly you need to slip them on and whether the sole may occasionally step outside. This guide compares the principal styles in A Farley’s current slipper collection, including options from Barker, Ariat, Dubarry and Orca Bay.

QUICK ANSWERChoose a mule for the quickest slip-on convenience, a moccasin or closed-back design for a more secure feel, and shearling or plush lining when warmth matters most. If the slippers may be worn briefly outdoors, choose a model whose product page specifically confirms a suitable rubber, TPR or indoor/outdoor sole.

Choose slippers by how you will wear them

Start with shape and warmth, then check the sole and available sizing.

Easy slip-on mules

Open-backed comfort for relaxed mornings, evenings and keeping beside the bed.

Secure closed-back styles

A more held fit for moving around the house and wearing for longer periods.

Maximum warmth

Shearling or plush linings for colder floors and winter comfort.

Occasional outdoor steps

Durable rubber, TPR or indoor/outdoor soles for brief trips to the doorstep.

Popular slippers compared

The order is informed by A Farley sales over the last six months, while each model is included for a distinct fit, material or use case.

Model	Best for	Shape	Upper / lining	Sole	Shop
Barker Elm	Premium leather comfort and traditional styling	Closed-back house slipper	Leather upper, insole and lining	Rubber	SHOP ELM
Ariat Jackie	Western styling and brief indoor/outdoor wear	Closed-back, wide square toe	Suede with plush acrylic lining	Indoor/outdoor EVA	SHOP JACKIE
Dubarry Rockmill	Quick slip-on warmth with a premium finish	Open-back mule	Suede with shearling insole and lining	Non-slip rubber	SHOP ROCKMILL
Barker Birch	Traditional full-leather house slippers	Closed-back house slipper	Leather upper, insole and lining	Rubber	SHOP BIRCH
Dubarry Rosslare	Warmth with the heel security of a moccasin	Closed-back moccasin	Suede with sheepskin shearling lining	Non-slip TPR	SHOP ROSSLARE
Dubarry Mullingar	Lightweight everyday slip-on comfort	Open-back mule	Suede with shearling lining	Lightweight indoor sole	SHOP MULLINGAR
Orca Bay Cocopah	Accessible suede comfort and an easy slip-on fit	Closed-back slip-on	Suede with a soft warm lining	Flexible sole for indoor and brief light outdoor use	SHOP COCOPAH

SHOP ALL SLIPPERS

Mule, moccasin or leather house slipper?

Mule slippers

The open heel makes a mule the fastest style to put on and take off. It suits relaxed indoor use, although it will not hold the heel as securely when walking quickly or using stairs.

Moccasin slippers

A closed heel and flexible construction create a more secure, foot-hugging feel. Sheepskin-lined moccasins are particularly useful when warmth matters.

Leather house slippers

Full-leather slippers feel smarter and typically use a durable rubber sole. They are a strong gifting choice for someone who prefers a traditional shoe-like shape.

Western-inspired slippers

Boot-inspired details and a wider square toe give the Ariat Jackie a distinctive look, while cushioning and an indoor/outdoor EVA sole add everyday practicality.

How should slippers fit?

Start with usual size

Use the wearer’s normal UK footwear size, then check the model’s available full or half-size increments.

Check heel security

A closed-back slipper should hold without rubbing. A mule should stay under the foot without needing the toes to grip.

Allow for lining

Shearling and plush linings may settle slightly with wear, but the slipper should not feel excessively loose when new.

Sizing note: Barker slippers are sold in full UK sizes. Ariat Jackie sizes are presented in UK sizing on A Farley, while the product box may display US sizing. Dubarry and Orca Bay listings show the corresponding UK and EU sizes; always use the live product-page selector before ordering.

Slipper care and practical use

Leather

Remove surface dust with a soft cloth and use a suitable leather product sparingly. Avoid soaking the lining and allow damp slippers to dry naturally away from direct heat.

Suede and shearling

Use a suitable suede brush and spot-clean only where the manufacturer permits. Avoid machine washing, soaking and drying directly beside a radiator or fire.

Slipper FAQs

Can slippers be worn outdoors?

Only where the product page confirms a suitable sole, and then mainly for brief use such as reaching the doorstep. Slippers are not a substitute for outdoor shoes in wet, rough or slippery conditions.

Which slippers are warmest?

Shearling-lined styles such as the Dubarry Rockmill and Rosslare provide natural warmth. Plush acrylic-lined designs such as the Ariat Jackie are also cosy, while unpadded full-leather slippers feel less insulating.

Are mules or closed-back slippers better?

Choose mules for quick slip-on convenience. Choose a moccasin or other closed-back style when heel security, stairs or longer periods of wear are more important.

Should slippers be bought larger?

Not automatically. Start with the normal footwear size and use the brand’s available increments. A slipper should feel comfortable without the foot sliding excessively or the toes touching the end.

Which slippers make the best gift?

Traditional Barker leather slippers suit a smart classic preference, Dubarry shearling styles prioritise warmth, and the Ariat Jackie suits someone who enjoys Western styling. Check the recipient’s usual size before choosing.

SHOP ALL SLIPPERS SHOP ALL FOOTWEAR READ THE CARE GUIDE

Product specifications, sizing and availability can change. Check the live product page before ordering and follow the manufacturer’s current care guidance.