As spring transitions into summer, the humble flip-flop emerges as a wardrobe staple. While often divisive in style, flip-flops serve practical purposes and are currently on trend, with luxury brands offering their own versions at premium prices. However, reaching for a basic $5 pair may harm your feet. Thin PVC sandals lack proper support, especially for those with high arches, potentially worsening existing foot conditions or causing new ones.
Fortunately, several options combine comfort and relief. Dr. Chanel J. Perkins, a board-certified podiatrist in Texas, emphasizes that the ideal flip-flop for high arches features adequate arch height and a cushioned footbed. 'If it folds in half like a soft taco, it lacks support. The footbed should match your foot's shape, contouring closely to your arch type,' she explains. Below are expert and editor-approved flip-flops that prioritize foot health without sacrificing style.
1. Rainbow Men's Flip Flops
HuffPost shopping writer Griffin Wynne recommends Rainbow flip flops for their support and comfort. Made with double-layer leather, these men's flip-flops provide extra arch support and a comfortable leather strap. Available in neutral colors and sizes 7.5–15. One reviewer notes, 'These are the comfiest flip-flops money can buy. The extra arch support is excellent, and I had no irritation between my toes.' Price: $74 at Amazon.
2. Crocs Getaway Platform Flip Flops
If thinner flip-flops aren't your preference, Crocs offers supportive and stylish options. The Getaway flip-flops feature smooth EVA 'Free Feel Technology' uppers that prevent toe chafing, while the Croslite platform sole provides cushioning. Suitable for plantar fasciitis sufferers, they come in various colors and sizes 4–11. A reviewer shares, 'Super comfortable. I walked 5 hours in Chicago without back or knee pain.' Price: $22+ at Amazon.
3. Kuru Flip Flops
Podiatrists frequently recommend Kuru shoes, and these flip-flops incorporate the same engineering as the brand's recovery slides. Available in men's and women's sizes, they are a worthwhile investment for foot health. One customer states, 'I wore them on a 7-day cruise with no plantar fasciitis flare-ups.' Price: $99 at Kuru.
4. Dansko Recovery Flip Flops
Known for clogs, Dansko's flip-flops feature an EVA footbed with arch support, lightweight cushioning, and a rubber outsole for grip. Ideal for long walks, they come in black or tan. A reviewer with plantar fasciitis says, 'I walked everywhere in St. Croix, including uneven surfaces, with no pain.' Price: $120 at DSW, Zappos, or Dansko.
5. Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer Flip Flops
These water-resistant flip-flops offer an anatomically contoured footbed with a negative-drop heel. Available in numerous colors and sizes (men's 7–18, women's 5–12). A user comments, 'I have plantar fasciitis, and these are the only thongs I wear. Great support.' Price: $80 at Zappos.
6. FitFlop Lulu Toe-Post Sandals
HuffPost writer Lourdes Avila Uribe praises FitFlop clogs and these toe-post sandals for their comfort and '90s platform style. They distribute weight evenly and absorb shocks. 'They're surprisingly chic and easy to style,' she says. Price: $85 at FitFlop or $75 at Zappos.
7. FitFlop Leather Thong Sandals
These designer-lookalike leather sandals from FitFlop resemble The Row and Gucci styles, with a cushy insole and durable construction. Suitable for work, vacation, or daily wear. A reviewer notes, 'I love the thinner heel yet it gives the support I need.' Price: $95 at FitFlop or $85 at Zappos.
8. Clarks Cloudsteppers Flip Flops
Part of the Cloudsteppers line, these fabric-upper flip-flops feature a soft-cushioned footbed over high-density foam for feather-light comfort. Available in multiple colors and women's sizes 5–12. A customer says, 'Perfect fit and wonderful support.' Price: $54 at Zappos or $50 at DSW.
9. Birkenstock Honolulu Flip Flops
These lightweight thong flip-flops have a sporty appearance and contours similar to Birkenstock's classic cork sandal. Made from waterproof EVA foam, they are perfect for pool days. Available in four colors and women's 5–12.5, men's 6–11.5. One user states, 'Most supportive flip-flops I've owned.' Price: $35 at Birkenstock.
10. Oofos OOriginal Flip Flops
Oofos uses proprietary foam to absorb shock and reduce joint strain. These flip-flops support arches and are machine washable. Available in women's 5–11 and men's sizes. A reviewer with neuropathy says, 'These are the only shoes that provide the right support and cushion.' Price: Women's $70, Men's $60+ at Oofos.
11. Orthofeet Flip Flops
Designed to alleviate heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and arthritis, these flip-flops have an anatomical insole with arch support. The soft thong material ensures comfort. Available in women's 5–12 in brown, gray, and blue. One customer shares, 'I can walk without pain thanks to these sandals.' Price: $96 at Amazon.
12. Vionic Toe Post Sandals
These podiatrist-designed sandals feature targeted comfort zones for stability and relief from various foot conditions. The contoured arch, cushioned insole, and deep heel cup keep feet supported. Available in women's 5–12 and men's 7–14. A buyer exclaims, 'Most comfortable flip-flop ever. No pain!' Price: Women's $100 at DSW, Men's $100 at Vionic.
13. Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor Sandals
Featuring the iconic cork footbed and buckle straps, these thong flip-flops contour to feet, providing supportive cushion and a deep heel cup for weight distribution. Available in women's 4–11.5 in multiple colors. A long-time user says, 'I wore my first pair from 2001 until they wore out. Perfect fit.' Price: $113 at Zappos.
This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
