ReefYou might not want to hear this, but summer's flip-flop trend is likely wrecking your feet. That's according to board-certified podiatrist Dr. David Laurino who says most styles may lack the support your feet need.
Because flip-flops aren't designed for walking long distances or all-day wear, they can often cause your feet to work overtime.
"This recruits muscles you don't normally use, shortens your stride into a shuffle and causes fatigue to travel up to the arch, Achilles, knees and lower back," Dr. Laurino explains. However, he says arch-support flip-flops are the solution.
- Expert-Approved Pick for Walking: Vionic Tide 2.0 Toe Post Sandal
- Celeb-Loved Slim Sandal: Archies Arch Support Flip Flops
- Budget-Friendly Pick with Rave Reviews: KuaiLu Flip Flops
According to Dr. Laurino, it's important to keep these crucial support features in mind when shopping for flip-flops that prevent sore, tired feet.
- "A contoured footbed with arch support is essential. Not a flat slab. A flat footbed is barely better than walking barefoot. You can test a sandal in the store by folding it in half. It should bend at the ball of the foot only. If it folds in the middle like a wallet, it doesn't have support and your foot will be working overtime."
- "A deep heel cup helps center the pad under the heel bone and keeps your foot from sliding around. This is where a lot of "my feet are killing me" walking pain comes from."
- "Cushioning should be firm, not mushy. You want shock absorption without losing stability. If the sole compresses flat under your thumb or collapses when you step it'll bottom out on a walk."
Shop on-trend flip-flops with podiatrist-approved support features below.
KuaiLu Flip-Flops
The KuaiLu Arch Support Flip-Flops are the summer sandals every flat-footed girl needs, with built-in arch support that actually delivers. A fan-favorite these cute, lightweight, and waterproof sandals have 26,700 5-star reviews.
Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops
A molded foam footbed and an inch of orthotic arch support make these Katie Holmes-loved Archies flip flops the ultimate sandal for those who don't want to sacrifice comfort for style. Choose from 16 neutral and bold colors.
Reef Vista Ivy Lightweight Flip-Flops
Made from sleek vegan leather, this elevated pick is designed with the ideal combination of arch support and cushioning for a silhouette that delivers on both style and comfort.
fitflop RELIEFF Recovery Toe-Post Sandals
The on-trend platform of these waterproof flip-flops isn't just for show. It provides triple-density foam cushioning and ergonomic arch support to keep your feet from working overtime. They have a wide fit, so size down if you have narrow feet.
Reef Vista Luxe Vivianahh Contoured Comfort Flip-Flops
This polished pick is designed with a contoured footbed with arch support and a deep heel cup to keep feet supported and stabilized.
Vionic Tide 2.0 Toe Post Sandal
"For patients with plantar fasciitis the Vionic Tide II is often recommended. It has a deep heel cup, built-in medial arch support and an APMA Seal of Acceptance," says Dr. Laurino.
Crocs Miami Round Toe Jelly Flip-Flop
Love the look of a barely there flip-flop? The fan-favorite Crocs Miami flip-flop has a minimalist silhouette and crucial support, thanks to the brand's proprietary drop-in Croslite foam footbed that contours and supports feet.
The best comfy shoes for walking and travel (that aren't sneakers).