Cheap Slippers Beat $90 Orthotics

Ninety dollars. That is what one shopper paid for a pair of orthotic house slippers before finding a cheaper alternative.

The Gritheim slippers retail for under $30 on Amazon. Buyers are comparing them directly to the Vionic Relax line, which costs about $90. The price difference is roughly $60 per pair.

The Gritheims feature a micro terry fleece upper. Inside, the footbed uses memory foam to absorb shock. An orthotic design supports the arch. A deep heel cup keeps the foot stable. Velcro straps allow for a custom fit.

These features address common foot issues. Owners say the adjustable straps help with bunions, hammer toes, and swelling. The design aims to keep the heel secure and the foot aligned.

The resemblance to Vionic products is the main draw for many shoppers. A reviewer named Reading Rocks bought the Gritheims after seeing them online. They had previously owned Vionic slippers that cost $60. The reviewer noted the new pair looks the same and provides the same arch support. The only difference mentioned was the sole weight. The Gritheim sole is not as heavy.

The timeline of the product’s rise on Amazon is driven by these comparisons. The Gritheims have been available for several years. The Vionic brand has been a known name in orthopedic footwear for the last five years. Shoppers began noticing the visual similarity between the two lines. This led to a wave of reviews comparing cost and comfort.

One customer named Christina S wrote about her experience with plantar fasciitis. She described waking up in pain to walk to the bathroom. She previously bought expensive orthopedic shoes and inserts for work. Those items helped during the day but did not stop the pain at home. She switched to wearing the Gritheims in the house. She keeps them by her bed. She also leaves them by the front door to change into them when she gets home. She reported that the pain is practically gone. She believes the slippers did more for her feet than the expensive shoes did.

Another reviewer, Mimi, called them the most comfortable slippers she has owned. She bought a second pair. She said she felt a difference from the moment she put them on. She highlighted the soft fuzzy lining and the snug fit from the adjustable strap.

Jessica Shipley has worn her pair for months. She said the slippers are still holding up well. She plans to order more when she needs a new pair. She noted that the slippers helped support her high arches. She switched to arch support sandals for going outside. She said her feet feel much better now.

Pam W. said she wears the slippers around the house all day. She reported no pain while wearing them. She mentioned that she once went out in public while still wearing them. She forgot she had them on because they were so comfortable. She noted that the adjustable strap prevents the slippers from stretching out and becoming loose.

The slippers are available in 10 colors. They come in women’s sizes 6 through 11. A reviewer with a 10.5 or 11 wide foot ordered a size 10. She found there was about half an inch of space at the heel. She said the Velcro fastening allowed her to tighten the fit. She described the fit as being like gloves. She said she was very happy with the purchase. She planned to buy another pair immediately.

The Gritheims are sold on Amazon. The source article notes that the original version of this story was published at an earlier date. The current reviews reflect the ongoing popularity of the product.