The 18 Most Comfortable Flip Flops to Wear This Summer
Plus, podiatrists' tips on finding your best fit
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How I Chose the Most Comfortable Flip Flops
To find the most comfortable flip flops, you have to go straight to the source—aka the people who wear them day in and day out. I asked editors about their go-to pairs and looked up countless reviews from popular brands like Havaianas, Birkenstock and Tory Burch. To narrow the search even further, I tapped two podiatrists to provide their expert-approved picks (as well as general guidelines to keep in mind as I searched for options), so you can enjoy the most comfortable fit all season long.
What to Look for in Comfortable Flip Flops
When searching for the most comfortable flip flops, our experts want you to keep these three things in mind:
- Arch Support: You want flip flops that will last you all day (and for years to come). “Our arches are integral in providing support and stability while walking and wearing shoes for a long period of time. Without proper arch support, our feet can experience fatigue and pain,” says Dr. Sharkey.
- Flexibility: It might feel silly bending a flip flop in the middle of the shoe aisle, but it can be a great test in finding out how flexible it is. “You want to look for a flip flop that’s semi-rigid, meaning you shouldn’t be able to fold it in half in your hands,” explains Dr. Sharkey. “Avoid excessively flexible and flimsy flip flops, as they lack support and [make you more prone to] trips and falls,” she adds.
- Materials: If you’re planning on wearing flip flops for a long period of time, you want to be mindful of the materials they’re made with. Dr. Blitz suggests looking for cushioned footbeds and non-slip grips in your choices. He adds, “When the toes have to work to overly grip the flip flop, they can lead to muscle overactivity and strain. This can also lead to muscle imbalances and increase the risk of bunions and hammertoes over time.”
Summer Feet Essentials
Courtney Campbell
Freelance Writer
Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.
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