Why I Make Felted Wool Slippers Instead of Shearling – And Why They’re Better for You
Hi, I’m Dovile—designer and maker behind FELTFORMA.
For over 15 years, I’ve been handcrafting wool slippers, house shoes, and boots in my small studio in Vilnius, Lithuania. Every pair begins in my hands, using pure mountain sheep wool and the traditional wet felting method.
I didn’t turn to materials like shearling—I was drawn to natural wool from the beginning. Its warmth, breathability, and honesty just felt right. Over time, I discovered that natural Tyrolean wool not only feels better on the foot, but it’s also better for the planet.
This post comes from my hands-on experience to help you compare felted wool vs. shearling slippers, and understand why so many people are choosing natural felted footwear for everyday comfort, wellness, and thoughtful gifting.
Felted Wool vs. Shearling Slippers – What Makes the Difference?
As The New York Times Wirecutter rightly pointed out in their recent review of the best slippers:
“Shearling isn’t as breathable as felted wool.”
I’ve felt that too. I tried shearling winter boots years ago—but ended up making felted wool boots for myself instead. The difference in breathability, warmth, and feel was clear, and I never looked back.
1. Breathability & Comfort
Shearling can feel fluffy at first, but it traps heat and moisture. I’ve had customers tell me their shearling slippers made their feet sweat or feel uncomfortable after a few hours.
Felted wool, especially from Tyrolean mountain sheep, is breathable, temperature-regulating, and moisture-wicking. It’s the same reason shepherds and mountaineers have worn it for centuries.
My slippers stay fresh even after full days of wear. And if you tend to run warm, this makes a huge difference.
Two pairs of handmade wool slippers for Men by FeltForma, crafted from undyed Tyrolean mountain sheep wool in light beige and brown tones. Designed for breathability, barefoot comfort, and all-day wear without sweating.
2. Support for Sensitive Feet
My felted wool slippers are shaped by hand—no machines, no cut-and-sew methods. This allows me to sculpt them to fit your feet, whether wide, narrow, or even to fit your orthopedic footbed.
I’ve made dozens of slippers for people with:
Flat feet
Custom orthotic insoles
You won’t get that flexibility from shearling moccasins bought off the shelf.
Watch how to adjust your wool slippers for wide feet and high arches
In this short video, I show how to gently cut the felted wool entrance to make it easier to slip on—especially helpful if you have high arches or a wider foot.
Everything is handmade by me in my studio, and designed for comfort that molds to your feet.
How to Make Handmade Wide Wool Slippers for Men – Custom Fit for High Arches & Wide Feet | Feltforma
3. Plant-Based, Glue-Free Rubber Soles for Grounding & Earthing
One thing I’m most proud of: Feltforma soles are glue-free, plastic-free, and plant-based (vegan).
You can choose from:
Felt soles – for full barefoot connection indoors
Natural latex soles – lightweight, soft-grip for hardwood floors
Eco rubber crepe soles – plastic-free rubber, glue-free, perfect for earthing, grounding, and light outdoor wear
These are applied by hand, without synthetic adhesives—making them safer, more sustainable, and more supportive of natural walking.
Naturally Grounded Wool Shoes for Women with Glue-Free Plant Based Rubber Soles for Indoors and Outdoors
4. Sustainability that Feels Good
I source wool from small eco farms in Europe, where sheep are treated with care. The wool is:
Washed with just water (no carbonization, no bleach)
Not mulesed
Naturally lanolin-rich for softness and durability
Shearling, in contrast, is almost always a byproduct of the meat industry—and most shearling slippers use synthetic rubber soles and chemical adhesives.
Premium European wool for making wool slippers
Ethically sourced European wool from small eco farms where sheep are treated with care. Naturally lanolin-rich and washed without chemicals or bleach.
5. Handmade with Heart
Every pair is hand-felted by me, Dovile. I don’t outsource. I don’t use factories.
Feltforma slippers are shaped from one seamless piece of wool using only water, soap, and motion—an ancient technique that produces strong, lasting footwear without stitching or glue.
No two pairs are ever the same.
6. Personalized in 30+7 Wool Colors
Feltforma offers:
30 custom-dyed exterior / interior wool shades
7 undyed natural interior / exterior colors
And simply mix dyed colors with natural wool colors - That means you can choose colors that match your home, wardrobe, or your loved one’s favorite hue. Most shearling slippers come in 2–4 basic colors.
7. Made to Last
Wool, when felted properly, is extremely durable. My customers wear their slippers for years.
I make each pair with the intention that you’ll reach for them daily—whether it’s your winter ritual, your WFH essential, or your evening comfort after a long walk.
This comparison table shows the differences between Feltforma handmade wool slippers and traditional shearling moccasins. Key features include breathability, custom width options, glue-free plant-based soles, sustainable materials, personalization, and color variety. Feltforma slippers are handcrafted in Lithuania by designer Dovile using organic Tyrolean wool, while shearling options are often factory-made with synthetic soles and limited flexibility.
Final Thoughts: Slow Comfort, Made to Last
If you’re looking for slippers that support your wellness, protect the planet, and truly fit your feet—Feltforma is made for you.
Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your partner, or a loved one who values quiet comfort, these slippers are a grounding gift that lasts.
I offer:
Worldwide shipping (including USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Europe)
Custom sizes and widths. Wide wool slippers for her, wide toe box slippers for him.
Men’s and women’s slippers, boots, and mule clogs
Step into comfort at feltforma.com
Follow FeltForma on Youtube for behind-the-scenes and gift ideas.
Have a question?
I love talking with customers. If you’re unsure about size, wool color, sole type, or want a pair made to fit your orthotics—send me a message. I’ll respond personally.
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Written by Dovile, designer and founder of Feltforma, Vilnius, Lithuania – 15 years of felting experience.