The North Face Thermoball Traction Booties

Great indoors slippers with a durable rubber sole. Comfy and warm.

I spend a lot of time at home and during the fall, winter, and early spring, keeping my feet warm and cozy is a priority. The last pair of slippers I had lasted about 10 years (with some modifications to make them more comfortable and durable, as if they were actual motorcycles):

 So getting replacements for these (they're on their last miles) was a big consideration weighing price, comfort, and longevity. I had my mind set on splurging on the uber-hygge Gleerups but reviews indicated that they might only last a year or two. Ditto Uggs slippers. Then I saw The North Face ThermoBall Traction Booties on sale:

They seemed to check all the boxes: easy to get into, stay on my feet, warm, and constructed of durable materials. Per TNF, the uppers are made of  [r]ecycled P.E.T. ripstop upper with non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish to help keep feet dry" (I actually had forgotten that they have a DWR!). The outsoles are "made with up to 20% recycled rubber." And to top it off, the insulation is "[l]ightweight ThermoBall Eco insulation retains warmth even when wet." Perfect!

I've only worn them for a day so I can't really speak to their durability. However, they are quite comfortable and warm (I keep my house at a low 66F-68F). You do need a finger to hold the back while sliding your feet into them but they stay put and won't shake off like mules or slides. And I really appreciate the rubber outsoles for when I have to step outside and wipe off my dog's wet paws (this was one hour ago, he's trying to find his ball in 8" of snow):

The only negative about the ThermoBall Traction Booties is that they are ever-so slightly small per the sizing. My men's size 9 feels like size 8.9. Really, it's just the top ends over my big toes. Of course, over more wearing, the insulation may compress a little and they'll feel like they were custom made. My advice is that if you are going to be wearing them with thick socks that you might want to order them one size larger than you normally wear. And, if you wanted to make them truly cushion-y, go up one size and add an extra insole.

TNF lists the weight as "8.5 oz (240 g)" per booty but doesn't list the size they used to obtain this weight. But for all you backpackers, now you know!

I bought them two weeks ago on sale from TNF (join their "XPLR Pass" to get free shipping) for $51.75 and today they are even less expensive at $48.30 (full retail is $69). FWIW, the pictured product color is "Phantom Grey Heather Print - TNF Black."

Bottom line: they are great indoors and I think they'd also be great sitting around an outdoors fire pit (although not in the snow).

Background

As I mentioned, I've only worn them for a day. But based on my previous slippers, I think these are a very good product, even at full price, perfect for winter-time hygge.