What to Look For

• The primary difference between an outdoor slipper and indoor slipper is the sole. Outdoor slippers have thicker rubber soles that can hold up to rougher surfaces than indoor slippers have to deal with. If you intend to use your slippers in the winter, look for a non-slip sole with enough traction for slick, icy walkways. Some companies that specialize in hiking and outdoor-sports footwear offer an even more durable alternative: slip-on shoes -- leather shoes that are built as durable as other footwear, but slide on like a slipper.

Smartwool Mocaroon

• Outside magazine included the Smartwool Mocaroon in its 2011 Winter Buyer's Guide, stating, "You'll wear it straight through on damp, chilly days --- round the house, running errands, to dinner and back --- and then you'll get up the next day and do it again." The slipper features Merino wool lining, wool and polyester uppers and gum-rubber outsoles, providing the right mix of warmth and traction. Smartwool recommends these for dry outdoor  weather.

Sanuk Sidewalk Surfers

• Sanuk's Sidewalk Surfers are basically a cross between slippers and light, comfy, slip-on shoes. In fact, Sanuk labels them as "sandals," basically low-weight shoes you can slide on and run errands in. Sanuk has a full line of different styles offering materials like leather and flannel. The company offers insulated models for colder days and backless, easy-slide models.

Baffin Scott

• If you happen to live in a place where winter temperatures dip near and below zero, you may want something a little warmer and more versatile than a slipper. Baffin makes a line of shoes designed for frigid, polar conditions. The Scott Men is a slip-on clog with Nubuck leather upper, a waterproof membrane, IcePaw traction sole and removable thermal insole. The shoes are rated to -4 F. -- any colder than that and you should really be wearing a pair of heavy boots.