Short answer: A good non-slip shoe cover has a textured sole that grips smooth floors, a snug elastic opening so the cover doesn't shift on your shoe, and fabric strong enough not to tear mid-step. A plain cover with no sole grip can be slick on tile and hardwood, which is the opposite of what you want.
Why shoe covers can be slippery
A shoe cover sits between your shoe and the floor. If it is thin, smooth and loose, it slides. The risk is highest on polished hardwood, tile and any damp floor. That is why the sole matters more than the thickness of the fabric.
What to look for in a non-slip shoe cover
- A textured, non-skid sole. Look for a sole that is clearly described as non-slip or non-skid. Our disposable shoe covers have a non-skid sole made for hardwood, tile and wet floors.
- A snug fit. A cover that bunches or slips off the heel moves against your shoe and the floor. Ours stretch to about 16.9 inches and fit shoe sizes 6 to 14, including men's work boots up to size 13.
- Fabric that won't tear. A torn cover can catch on a step. Ours are 40gsm polypropylene, and the product specs page has the full material details.
- Water resistance for damp floors. Wet driveways and mopped floors are common. See the difference between water-resistant and waterproof in our water resistance guide.
How to get the best grip
- Slide your toe in first and pull the cover fully over your heel so the elastic sits around your ankle.
- Make sure the sole sits flat under your shoe with no folds.
- Replace covers that are torn, soaked or caked in mud. A dirty, wet sole grips less.
- Walk carefully on any wet surface. No shoe cover makes a wet floor risk-free.
Disposable or reusable for grip?
Both can have non-slip soles. Disposable covers are fastest on and off and give you a fresh sole at every stop. Our reusable shoe covers have a rubberized non-slip sole and are waterproof, which suits wet or muddy sites. Not sure which? Read disposable vs reusable shoe covers.
Frequently asked questions
Are shoe covers slippery on hardwood?
Smooth covers can be. Covers with a non-skid sole, like ours, are made to grip hardwood, tile and wet floors.
Do non-slip shoe covers work on wet floors?
They are designed to grip wet floors better than a plain cover, but you should still walk carefully on any wet surface.
Will they fit over work boots?
Yes. Ours stretch over men's work boots up to size 13.
What if a cover tears?
Every order is covered by our Tear-Free Promise. If a cover tears, we refund the whole box, no return needed.
Ready to try them?
Shop non-slip shoe covers, or buy for a crew with the Contractor Case: 1,000 covers at about $0.17 each.