The Best Sandals for Sauna: An Evidence-Based Guide to Heat, Grip, and Hygiene

You step into the sauna. The cedar bench is hot enough to sting bare skin, and the tile floor is slick with condensation from the last three people who walked through. A pair of flip-flops would slide. Bare feet would burn. This is the exact moment where the right sandal stops being a nice-to-have and becomes the difference between a relaxing session and a painful one.

A proper sauna sandal needs to handle three things at once: heat, water, and shared-space hygiene. The material has to survive temperatures that would warp a cheap pair of drugstore slides. The outsole needs real traction on wet cedar, tile, and concrete. And the footbed has to dry fast enough that bacteria never gets a foothold. Most shower shoes sold online only solve one of those problems.

We looked at five models from Aoowoll and FUNKYMONKEY, compared their EVA construction, drainage design, and cushioning, and matched each one to a specific type of sauna user. The first pick is the most versatile. The last pick is a solid budget option with a few real compromises. Everything in between fills a specific gap.

Here is a quick side-by-side of the key specs before we get into the details.

Features	Aoowoll Shower Slides	Aoowoll Quick-Dry Slides	Aoowoll Grey Slides	Aoowoll Open Toe Sandals	FUNKYMONKEY Shower Slides
Material	EVA foam	High-density EVA	EVA foam	High-density EVA	Durable EVA
Sole Thickness	1.4 inches	1.18 inches	1.4 inches	1.18 inches	Not specified
Drainage Holes	14	18	14	18	Not specified
Weight Per Pair	6.3 oz	6 oz	6.3 oz	6 oz	Lightweight
Best Use Case	All-around sauna	Wide feet, wet floors	Grey color option	Open toe airflow	Budget pick

Aoowoll Shower Shoes for Men & Women

This is the pair most people should start with. The Aoowoll slides in black, EU44, hit the sweet spot between cushioning and portability, and they work in a home sauna, a gym locker room, or a hotel spa without looking out of place. If you split your time between a public sauna and your own setup, this is the one to grab.

The 1.4-inch sole is the standout feature. That extra quarter-inch over the thinner Aoowoll models makes a real difference on hot tile, where heat transfers through the outsole fast. The 15-degree angled toe also helps with a more natural stride, which matters when you are walking on a wet surface and want your foot to land flat instead of slapping down. Fourteen drainage holes clear water quickly, so you are not squishing around after a cold plunge.

The trade-off is weight. At 6.3 ounces per pair, these are still light, but they are heavier than the FUNKYMONKEY option and slightly bulkier to pack. The EVA will also deform if you leave them in a hot car or near a dryer, so storage matters. And the black color shows scuffs more than the grey version.

• 1.4-inch thickened EVA sole for heat insulation on hot floors
• 14 drainage holes plus slip-resistant linear outsole
• 15-degree angled toe for natural stepping motion
• 6.3 oz per pair, packs flat in a gym bag
• Rinse and air dry; avoid high heat and direct sun

Best for: Anyone who wants one pair of sauna sandals that handles home, gym, and travel use without compromise.

Aoowoll Quick-Drying Slides for Wide Feet

Wide feet are a real problem in sauna footwear. Most slides run narrow, and when your feet swell from the heat, a tight footbed becomes painful fast. The Aoowoll Quick-Drying Slides in black, EU44, solve that with a roomy footbed that accommodates wider feet without pinching. If you have ever had to size up just to fit the width, this is your pair.

The 18 drainage holes are the most in this lineup, and they do clear water noticeably faster than the 14-hole models. The 1.18-inch sole is thinner than the first pick, but the EVA is high-density, so it still provides responsive cushioning. At 3 ounces per sandal, these are genuinely light. The non-porous material resists odors, which is a big deal in shared saunas where you are walking on the same floor as dozens of other people.

Here is the honest downside: the thinner sole transfers heat faster. On a 90°C sauna floor, you will feel warmth through the footbed within a minute or two. That is fine for walking to the bench, but standing in place on hot tile for long stretches is not comfortable. The wide fit also means less lateral security if your feet are narrow.

• 18 drainage holes for fastest water clearance
• 1.18-inch high-density EVA sole
• 3 oz per sandal, extremely packable
• Wide footbed for swelling feet
• Non-porous, odor-resistant material

Best for: Sauna users with wide feet or anyone who wants maximum drainage and minimum weight.

Aoowoll Grey Slides for Sauna Use

This is the same sandal as the first pick, just in grey and a larger size (EU46). The grey color hides scuffs and water spots better than black, which matters if you are using these daily and do not want to scrub them after every session. If you like the 1.4-inch cushioning but want a color that looks cleaner longer, this is the version to get.

The performance is identical to the black model: 14 drainage holes, 1.4-inch EVA sole, 6.3 ounces per pair, and the same 15-degree toe angle. The grey finish is the only real difference. That said, grey does show dirt from sauna floors more than you might expect, especially on the heel where you plant your foot. A quick rinse after each use keeps them looking new.

The limitation here is sizing. EU46 is a large size, and if you normally wear a 44 or 45, the fit will be loose. Loose sandals on wet tile are a slip risk. Check the size chart carefully before ordering, and size down if you are between sizes.

• 1.4-inch EVA sole with 14 drainage holes
• Grey finish hides scuffs better than black
• 6.3 oz per pair, same platform as the black model
• 15-degree angled toe for natural stride
• EU46 sizing runs large; check the chart

Best for: Sauna regulars who want the thicker sole and a color that looks clean with minimal effort.

Aoowoll Open Toe Sandals for Airflow

Open-toe design changes the airflow equation. The Aoowoll Open Toe sandals in grey, EU46, let air move across the top of your foot, which helps with moisture-wicking and keeps your feet cooler between sauna rounds. If you run hot or sweat heavily, this is a meaningful upgrade over a closed-toe slide.

The 18 drainage holes and slip-resistant grooves handle wet floors well, and the 1.18-inch EVA sole is soft enough for post-workout recovery. At 3 ounces per sandal, they are the lightest option here. The wide footbed accommodates swelling, and the non-porous material resists odors. For a public sauna where you are walking on shared tile, the open toe also means less surface area touching your skin.

The open toe is not for everyone. In a public sauna, you lose some protection against stubbed toes and splashes. The thinner sole also transfers heat faster than the 1.4-inch models, so long periods on hot floors are less comfortable. And the grey color, like the other grey model, shows dirt on the heel.

• Open-toe design for maximum airflow
• 18 drainage holes and slip-resistant grooves
• 1.18-inch EVA sole, 3 oz per sandal
• Wide footbed for heat-swollen feet
• Non-porous, odor-resistant construction

Best for: Hot sleepers and heavy sweaters who want airflow and fast drying in a public sauna.

FUNKYMONKEY Men’s Shower Slides

The FUNKYMONKEY slides in black, size 11, are the budget pick. They cover the basics: EVA construction, a textured diamond-patterned outsole for traction, and an open-toe slide design for easy on and off. If you need a cheap pair for occasional sauna use at home, these will do the job.

The diamond-patterned outsole is the best grip feature in this lineup on paper. It provides reliable traction on wet and dry surfaces, and the open-toe design makes them easy to slip on when you are moving between the sauna and the shower. The EVA material is lightweight and offers decent shock absorption for standing.

But this is the least impressive pair in the group, and it is worth saying so. The product data does not list a sole thickness, drainage hole count, or weight, which makes it hard to compare directly. The care note warns about warping from high heat, and without a stated temperature resistance, these are a risk on hot sauna floors. They are fine for the shower and locker room. For a 90°C sauna bench area, the lack of specs is a real concern.

• Durable EVA material with shock absorption
• Diamond-patterned outsole for wet and dry traction
• Open-toe slide design for easy on and off
• Versatile for home, gym, spa, and travel
• No stated sole thickness or drainage specs

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who need a basic shower slide for home use and are not spending long periods on hot sauna floors.

Why Sauna Sandals Matter (Heat, Hygiene, Safety)

Sauna floors get hot. Not warm. Hot. A typical Finnish sauna runs between 80°C and 110°C at bench level, and the floor near the heater can hit 60°C to 80°C. Bare feet on that surface for more than a few seconds is a burn risk. Sandals create a thermal barrier, but only if the material can handle the temperature without softening or transferring heat.

How Heat Transfers to Your Feet

Heat moves through solid materials by conduction. A thin rubber or EVA sole conducts heat faster than a thick one. That is why a 1.4-inch EVA sole feels cooler on hot tile than a 1.18-inch sole. The air trapped in the foam structure also acts as insulation, but only up to a point. Once the EVA reaches its softening temperature, it loses shape and the insulation value drops.

EVA foam typically starts to soften around 60°C to 70°C and can deform above 80°C. That means a sauna floor at 80°C is right at the edge of what EVA can handle. On a bench at 100°C, EVA will warp. This is why you never leave your sandals on the bench. Keep them on the floor, and keep your feet moving.

Shared Sauna Germ Risks

Public sauna floors are warm, wet, and shared. That combination is ideal for foot fungus, plantar warts, and bacterial infections. Athlete’s foot loves warm, damp surfaces. Walking barefoot in a public sauna or locker room is the most common way people pick it up.

Sandals with drainage holes and non-porous materials dry faster and harbor less bacteria. The Aoowoll models with 18 holes and high-density EVA are the best in this lineup for hygiene. Rinse them after every use, and let them air dry completely before packing them away. A damp sandal in a gym bag is a petri dish.

What to Look For: Material, Grip, Fit, Heat Rating

Not all sauna sandals are built the same. The material, the sole thickness, and the fit all affect how well they perform in a real sauna. Here is what actually matters.

EVA vs Rubber vs Wood vs Foam

EVA foam is the most common material for sauna sandals. It is lightweight, water-resistant, and cushions well. The downside is heat sensitivity. EVA deforms above 80°C, so it is not suitable for bench use.

Rubber is more heat-resistant and grips well when wet, but it is heavier and less comfortable for long wear. Wooden sandals, like traditional Japanese geta, are the most heat-resistant option. They handle 100°C+ without issue, but they offer no cushioning and take time to get used to. Foam blends vary in quality. High-density EVA lasts longer and resists compression better than cheap foam.

Temperature Resistance Explained

No sandal in this lineup is rated for bench-level temperatures. That is normal. Sauna sandals are designed for the floor, not the bench. The floor is typically 20°C to 40°C cooler than the bench. If your sauna floor runs above 80°C, you need a rubber or wood sandal, not EVA.

For home saunas that run at 70°C to 90°C, EVA is fine for short periods. For public saunas that run hotter, keep your sandals on the floor and limit standing time. If you want to check your sauna’s heat range, a good hygrometer for sauna takes the guesswork out of it.

Sizing When Feet Swell

Heat makes feet swell. A sauna session can add half a size to your foot. If you buy sandals that fit snugly at room temperature, they will pinch after ten minutes in the heat. Size up if you are between sizes, and look for a wide footbed.

The Aoowoll Quick-Drying Slides and Open Toe sandals both have roomy footbeds that accommodate swelling. The FUNKYMONKEY slides do not list a width, so they are a risk for wide feet. Always check the size chart and read the fit notes.

Top Picks Compared

Here is how the five models stack up against each other for specific sauna needs.

Best Overall

The Aoowoll Shower Shoes for Men & Women in black is the best all-around pick. The 1.4-inch sole provides the best heat insulation in the lineup, the 14 drainage holes clear water fast, and the 6.3-ounce weight is light enough to pack. It works in a home sauna, a gym, and a hotel spa.

Best Arch Support

None of these sandals have dedicated arch support. They are flat EVA slides. If you need arch support, look for a model with a contoured footbed, which none of these have. The closest option is the Aoowoll Shower Shoes with the 15-degree angled toe, which promotes a more natural stride but does not provide arch support.

Best Barefoot Feel

The Aoowoll Open Toe sandals come closest to a barefoot feel. The open toe lets air move across your foot, and the 1.18-inch sole is thin enough to feel the floor without the heat. If you want the sensation of walking barefoot without the burn or the germs, this is the pair.

Best Budget

The FUNKYMONKEY Men’s Shower Slides are the cheapest option. They cover the basics for shower and locker room use. But the lack of specs and the heat warning make them a poor choice for hot sauna floors. Buy these for the shower, not the sauna.

Best Closed-Toe

All five models are open-toe or slide designs. None are closed-toe. If you need closed-toe protection, you will have to look at a different category. For sauna use, open-toe is actually better because it allows airflow and faster drying.

Public vs Home Sauna Etiquette

Public saunas have rules. Most require you to wear sandals or shower shoes when walking between the locker room and the sauna. Some provide disposable slippers. Bringing your own is cleaner and more comfortable.

In a home sauna, etiquette is simpler. Wear sandals if you want to protect your feet from hot floors and keep the bench clean. Some purists go barefoot, but that is a personal choice. If you share your home sauna with others, sandals reduce the spread of foot fungus.

One rule applies everywhere: never wear your sauna sandals outside. Dirt and bacteria from outdoor surfaces transfer to the sauna floor. Keep a dedicated pair for indoor use. If you want to keep your sauna clean and aromatic, a good cedar wood for sauna helps maintain the environment, but it will not fix dirty floors.

Cleaning, Odor, and Longevity

EVA sandals are easy to clean. Rinse them with warm water after every use. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can break down the foam.

Odor comes from bacteria and sweat trapped in the material. The non-porous EVA models resist odor better than porous foam. The 18-hole models drain and dry faster, which also reduces odor. Let them air dry completely before storing them. Never leave them in a gym bag or a closed locker while damp.

Lifespan depends on use. A pair used daily in a public sauna might last six months to a year. A pair used once a week at home can last several years. Watch for cracks, compression, and loss of grip. Replace them when the sole flattens or the drainage holes tear.

Safety and Off-Gassing Concerns

EVA foam can off-gas when heated. The smell is usually mild, but some people are sensitive to it. If you notice a strong chemical odor, let the sandals air out for a few days before using them in a sauna.

Off-gassing is more of a concern with cheap, low-quality EVA. The higher-density EVA used in the Aoowoll models is less likely to off-gas, but no EVA is completely free of it. If you are sensitive to chemicals, consider rubber or wood sandals instead.

Heat is the bigger safety issue. EVA softens at high temperatures, which can cause you to slip. Never wear EVA sandals on a hot sauna bench. Keep them on the floor, and check the sole for softness before each use. If the sole feels squishy or deformed, replace them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear these sandals on the sauna bench? No. EVA foam softens above 80°C, and sauna benches often run 90°C to 110°C. The sandals will deform and lose grip. Keep them on the floor and wear a towel or sit on a sauna hat if you need bench protection.

How do I stop my sauna sandals from smelling? Rinse them after every use and let them air dry completely. Avoid leaving them in a damp gym bag. The 18-hole models dry faster and resist odor better than the 14-hole models. If odor persists, soak them in a vinegar and water solution for 30 minutes, then rinse.

Should I size up for a sauna sandal? Yes, if you are between sizes. Heat makes feet swell, and a snug sandal will pinch. The wide-footbed models from Aoowoll accommodate swelling better than the FUNKYMONKEY slides, which do not list a width.

Are EVA sandals safe in a hot sauna? For floor use, yes, as long as the floor temperature stays below 80°C. Above that, EVA can soften and off-gas. If your sauna floor runs hotter, choose rubber or wood sandals. A quick check with a sauna for home guide can help you understand typical floor temperatures for your setup.

How We Chose These Products

We evaluated five sauna sandals based on material, sole thickness, drainage design, weight, and fit. We prioritized models with specific, verifiable specs over vague marketing claims. The Aoowoll models with listed drainage hole counts and sole thicknesses scored higher than the FUNKYMONKEY slides, which lack those details.

We also considered real-world use cases. A sandal that works for a home sauna might not work for a public gym. A sandal that fits narrow feet might pinch wide feet. We matched each model to the buyer it serves best, and we flagged the trade-offs honestly. No sandal in this lineup is perfect, and we said so.

Buying Guide: What Really Matters

Sole thickness matters more than most buyers realize. A 1.4-inch EVA sole insulates better than a 1.18-inch sole, but it is also heavier and bulkier. If you are carrying your sandals in a gym bag, the thinner sole is easier to pack. If you are standing on hot tile, the thicker sole is worth the weight.

Drainage hole count is a proxy for how fast the sandal dries. More holes mean faster water clearance and less odor. The 18-hole models are better for public showers and saunas. The 14-hole models are fine for home use where you control the environment.

Fit is the most overlooked factor. Heat swells your feet, so a sandal that fits snugly at room temperature will pinch in the sauna. Look for a wide footbed if you have wide feet or if you plan to wear the sandals for long periods. Check the size chart and read the fit notes before ordering.

Our Top Recommendation

The Aoowoll Shower Shoes for Men & Women in black is our top pick. It has the thickest sole in the lineup, the best heat insulation, and a weight that is light enough to pack. It works in a home sauna, a gym, and a hotel spa. The 14 drainage holes clear water fast, and the 15-degree toe angle makes walking on wet floors more stable.

If you have wide feet, the Aoowoll Quick-Drying Slides are the better choice. The roomy footbed and 18 drainage holes make them the best option for swelling feet and fast drying. If you want airflow, the Aoowoll Open Toe sandals are the closest thing to a barefoot feel. And if you are on a tight budget, the FUNKYMONKEY slides cover the basics for shower use, though they are not ideal for hot sauna floors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear these sandals on the sauna bench? No. EVA foam softens above 80°C, and sauna benches often run 90°C to 110°C. The sandals will deform and lose grip. Keep them on the floor and wear a towel or sit on a sauna hat if you need bench protection.

How do I stop my sauna sandals from smelling? Rinse them after every use and let them air dry completely. Avoid leaving them in a damp gym bag. The 18-hole models dry faster and resist odor better than the 14-hole models. If odor persists, soak them in a vinegar and water solution for 30 minutes, then rinse.

Should I size up for a sauna sandal? Yes, if you are between sizes. Heat makes feet swell, and a snug sandal will pinch. The wide-footbed models from Aoowoll accommodate swelling better than the FUNKYMONKEY slides, which do not list a width.

Are EVA sandals safe in a hot sauna? For floor use, yes, as long as the floor temperature stays below 80°C. Above that, EVA can soften and off-gas. If your sauna floor runs hotter, choose rubber or wood sandals. A quick check with a sauna for home guide can help you understand typical floor temperatures for your setup.

What is the best material for sauna sandals? EVA foam is the most common and works well for floor use below 80°C. Rubber is more heat-resistant and grips better when wet, but it is heavier. Wood is the most heat-resistant but offers no cushioning. For most home saunas, high-density EVA is the best balance of comfort, weight, and heat resistance.