One of the most requested features from customers on our hand knit wool slipper socks when we started our business was to add non-slip grippers to the felt soles. It took a year of development to bring this innovation to our small operation in Nepal, but we are now proud that both our long slipper socks and slipper booties feature non-skid grippers on the soles.
Why buy slipper socks with non-slip soles
Slipper socks with non-slip soles are essential for seniors, who not only typically suffer from cold feet as blood circulation diminishes with age, but for whom the risk of falling is a major concern. According to the CDC, people age 65 and older have a 25% risk of falling, and once someone falls, their chance of a repeat case actually doubles.
As our slipper socks are enjoyed by men and women of all ages, it was important that we add this feature to our slipper socks. Because Tibetan Socks are made with a soft wool felt sole, our slipper socks are appropriate to wear to bed in addition to around the house, which is ideal for seniors with Raynaud's disease.
How our non-slip soles are made
In order to add these rubberized grippers to the bottoms of our felt soles, we use a screen printing technique that adds flat rubber spots. These rubberized grips provide traction on hardwood floors so that when you slip into a pair of Tibetan Socks, you can be sure won’t be doing any slipping at home!
These rubberized grippers are wash-safe, though we recommend following our wash/care instructions which include turning inside out and either hand washing or putting in the machine on the gentlest cycle with cold water and laying flat to dry.
Besides being effective at providing anti-skid traction, our slipper socks with gripper soles are comfortable and don’t give the sensation of walking on uncomfortable bubbles or raised dots like some other brands or DIY versions.
DIY Instructions for adding non-slip gripper soles to slipper socks
Regardless of what slipper socks you purchase, you can also add your own non-slip grippers to any pair of slippers or socks. If you’re looking for a DIY project, visit your local craft store or Amazon to buy non-slip glue and add them to the bottoms of your socks. You can even use a hot glue gun or silicone caulk, though the disadvantage of these materials is that the bottoms can actually provide TOO much traction and can make movement feel unnatural and uncomfortable if applied too thick.
- Buy a 3D fabric textile liquid paint from your local craft-store or online
- Apply the dots on the bottom of the slipper sock, especially the heel and toe as these are the places that are most likely to have contact with the floor
- Wait 24 hours for the paint to dry
DIY materials you can use for non-slip gripper soles
- Silicone caulk
- Hot glue
- Special textile liquid paint
