Flip flop FAQs, answered:
If you opt to wear flip-flops for an extended period of time, look for pairs with arch support and a bit of a heel. “Having somewhat of a heel allows the foot to function appropriately during a normal gait cycle, where the heel strikes the floor, then your foot plants on the ground, and then proceeds to toe-off before the other foot does the same thing,” details Sidney Weiser, podiatrist and CEO of Quality Podiatry Group.
She also suggests taking note of material, too: “Plastics and vinyl materials that flip-flops are made from cause sweating, which can contribute to skin problems such as fungi. Blisters are also very prevalent. Essentially, look for foam, rubber, leather, and synthetic materials instead.
Marion Yau, podiatrist at Harley Medical Foot & Nail Laser Clinic, suggests paying close attention to the straps attached to your chosen flip flops, too. “Avoid sandals with thin straps that are glued rather than stitched or moulded into the sole as they detach easily and cannot be repaired.
She continues: “Fit matters too; feet should sit entirely within the footbed, as overhang causes the toes to grip the sandal, straining the flexor tendons over time. Always check that the sole is fully waterproof or water-resistant, as a footbed that absorbs moisture creates a warm, damp environment where bacterial and fungal infections thrive.
“Finally, replace your flip-flops once the sole has visibly compressed or the straps begin to fray as worn-out sandals put unnecessary stress on the heels, arches, and ankles.”
What makes a flip-flop ‘good’ or ‘high quality’?
“Material and construction are the two things that separate a well-made flip-flop from one that fails by mid-summer,” adds Marion. “Premium sandals are made from genuine leather, natural rubber, or high-density EVA foam materials that hold their shape under regular use. Low-grade synthetics compress quickly, and once the sole loses its density, it loses its ability to support the foot.
“Sole thickness matters too; anything under 1cm offers very little shock absorption, sending impact straight through the heel and into the joints.”
Are flip-flops with arch support really better?
According to the experts, yes — and I’d agree if comfort is the priority. “From a podiatric standpoint, yes,” shares Marion. “A flat flip-flop provides no support to the medial longitudinal arch, leaving the plantar fascia to absorb a disproportionate load with every step. Over time, this is a well-established pathway to plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and chronic foot fatigue.
“A contoured footbed that mirrors the natural shape of the arch distributes body weight more evenly, reducing that strain considerably. For anything beyond a short beach walk, built-in arch support is worth prioritising.”
How long should you really wear flip-flops?
It goes without saying, really, that flip-flops aren’t as supportive as walking shoes or walking sandals. “Wearing flip flops is probably not the best shoe gear one should wear on a daily basis,” confirms Weiser. “They’re associated with many types of injuries, including falls due to slippage on wet surfaces and blisters due to the plastic material between toes.”
“You should never run or play sports in flip-flops. Never wear them in the rain as they may become slippery. Wearing them to the pool, beach, locker room, and sauna is okay.” Noted.
Meet the experts:
How I tested the best flip flops:
I wish testing flip flops involved booking a long weekend in Europe, using each day to test a new pair, considering their comfort, fit and durability while exploring. Instead, I spent two months wearing each pair as much as possible — for my morning commute, around the supermarket, and for Sunday walks around Wimbledon Common with my other half.
After wearing each pair at least three times, I rated them against the following criteria:
| Design | Are the flip-flops fit for purpose — supportive and not too bouncy? Did I experience any rubbing or chafing? Are they aesthetic, and do I have options in terms of colour and design? |
| Fit | Are the flip-flops true to size? Are there narrow and wide fit options? Is the sizing and associated guide easy to understand? |
| Support | Do the straps keep the flip-flop attached to my foot? Did I feel supported underfoot, especially around the arch? Is there ample room for my toes to splay naturally? |
| Price point | Would I be willing to spend that much on a pair of flip-flops again? Did they wear well? |
| Delivery | How quickly did each pair of flop flops arrive, and what were the associated costs? |
As you’d hope, only the flip flops that impressed made it into this edit. However, I also tried the following, which sadly didn’t meet my standards:
- Crocs Getaway Platform Flip Flops, £44.99 — I had high hopes after seeing these go semi-viral on TikTok, and while I loved the platform design, I didn’t find them the most comfortable, and I finished the day with blisters on the first three wears. They also didn’t feel the most premium!
- Topshop’s Sky Real Leather Toe Thong Sandal, £38 — I loved the fire-engine red colour of these Topshop slides, as well as the fact they’re leather and under £50. However, they were SO loud under foot and a little slippery on extra hot days.
In terms of what I’m currently testing, stay tuned for these reviews:
Why you can trust me:
I’ve been reviewing functional fashion for years — whether it be new underwear, shapewear or activewear, I’m well-versed with putting designers’ claims to the test so as to publicly declare the brands and products worth your money. For context, this includes everything from walking shoes to period pants, as well as gym leggings, t-shirt bras and comfortable heels.
In terms of my working week, it tends to involve hours of personal testing, plenty of writing and countless press events, discovering the latest innovations in practical fashion. I also regularly chat one-on-one with fashion designers and health experts, including leading podiatrists, to ask for their insight, shopping tips and product recommendations.
In terms of my experience with flip flops, I’m a recent convert. In summers past, I’ve relied on sandals to carry me through sweaty commutes and my summer travels. However, after seeing the fashion set rely on slimline thong sandals, I decided it was time to track down the most supportive and stylish. For this piece, I tried a variety of styles, all in a UK 6 or 6.5, to see which were most comfortable, supportive and worked with the majority of my wardrobe.