Slip-on shoes are incredibly convenient, but of course, they don't always provide much support or padding. These sets of individual elastic bands convert standard lace-ups to slip-ons. Each band has triangular-shaped anchors to keep them from slipping out of the eyelets. The bands can be tricky to squeeze through, but once they're in, they stay put in my experience. They're available in three sizes (small - large, depending on the desired fit) and a variety of colors, including fun neons (!) but also white and black if your step doesn't need the added flash. It's really a wonder no one thought to invent these sooner. After a friend gave me a set, I salvaged a pair of running shoes from the back of my closet. Call me lazy, but because I can easily kick 'em off and slip 'em on, they're the only shoes I wear on the weekend.

-- Steven Leckart

Golaces
$10
Previously available from Jibbitz*

Manufactured by Golaces*

*NOTE: Golaces founder Brian Witlin says these already-nifty elastic laces are being re-tooled and will once again be available in the spring of 2009. We'll be checking out and reporting back on the new Golaces then, so stay tuned... -- SL

Related items previously reviewed in Cool Tools:

Speed Laces

Nike Free

Shoe Goo