The freedom your toes feel in a pair of flip-flops can feel super relieving, whether you're strutting out of the salon with a fresh pedicure or hitting the sandy shores during a particular hot stretch. But the thong-like sandals can cause a series of issues that will make you run to your closed-toe shoes in a matter of seconds.
While this type of footwear cannot be replaced with more supportive walking shoes, you can get away with many brands that offer ample comfort. From recovery-style flip-flops to more cushioned footbeds, Shop TODAY talked to board-certified foot surgeon Dr. Brad Schaeffer to cull the best qualities and styles.
Are flip-flops bad for your feet? | When should you avoid flip-flops? | Benefits of flip-flops | Quality flip-flop brands to shop | Best flip-flops for women | How we chose | Meet the expert
Budget-friendly sandals$undefined$20.15
Are flip-flops bad for your feet?
According to Schaeffer, as long as your shoes have proper support, you can strut comfortably without pain.
"I tell my patients to avoid a shoe or flip-flop that is flat and hard as a board! This provides no structure or stabilization for our feet and there are many great alternatives to choose from," he mentions.
Schaeffer suggests picking out flip-flops that have arch support and cushioning in the midsole. Ultimately, supportive flip-flops will offer "more stabilization and balance as you walk, and reduce the amount of impact on your feet."
"When shopping, it's important to look for a stable sandal with some deeper heel cups for stability," he stresses. "The reason for this is our 'gait cycle' (the way we walk), from heel-strike to toe-off, needs support in order to avoid aggravating or developing any foot pain."
What are the benefits of wearing flip-flops?
While Schaffer is not a fan of flip-flops, he mentions that the style is "comfortable, easy to wear and lets your feet breathe in warm environments."
The most important thing is to find a flip-flop that offers good support. "You need one that has the right amount of cushioning and rigidity."
What are some quality flip-flop brands to shop?
If you're a fan of flip-flops, Schaeffer recommends Hoka and Vionic for their overall arch support technology and stability.
Best flip-flops for women, according to shoppers
Dream Pairs Women's Arch Support Soft Cushion Flip Flops
- Straps are comfortable
- Feel comfortable
- Minimal arch support
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 6 | Sole material: N/A
Head to the beach in these flexible and lightweight flip-flops. The pair has a durable outsole that is slip-resistant and ideal for slippery surfaces. These are great for walking outside in the heat thanks to the fabric weave. Also, with a slight arch and a profound heel cup, you'll find the much-needed comfort for outdoor experiences.
Teva Olowahu
- Easy to clean
- Ideal for plantar fasciitis
- Tend to run small
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 3 | Sole material: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
Teva's all-day-wear styles are best known for the comfort they deliver. This pair in particular has a quick-drying material and Mush topsole cushion that forms to your foot. Customers rave about how lightweight these are and the extra support it provides, even when you walk for miles.
"I find them extremely comfortable and stylish enough to wear with sporty dresses or yoga pants. These shoes are-slip resistant and comfortable for lots of walking," shared one verified buyer.
Birkenstock Honolulu EVA Flip Flops
- Very lightweight
- Recommended to size up
Size: 4-12.5 | Colors: 3 | Sole material: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
Birkenstocks, more specifically their EVA-style shoes, are becoming more popular due to their long-lasting, supportive qualities. If you're used to their cork-style sandals, don't be hesitant to also indulge in an EVA pair, which offers the same amount of benefits at a more affordable price.
Available in four colors, these flip flops are also washable, making them perfect for the summertime when they're more likely to get covered in sand and dirt.
Roxy Gabbie Flip-Flops
- Run true to size
- Minimal arch support
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 1 | Sole material: Synthetic faux leather lining, rubber outsole
Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil can't live without these flip-flops for their simplicity and versatility when it comes to pairing them with different summer outfits.
"I grew up by the beach and have always lived in flip-flops every summer — I refuse to give them up! This minimalist tan pair is my current favorite. They’re casual enough to wear to the beach, but I like that the soft faux-leather material looks nicer than rubber or plastic, so I can also wear them with white jeans and a tank or tee for dinner," says Cocchi Zabloudil.
Clarks Breeze Sea Burnt Yellow
- Available in even sizes
- Very supportive
- Can feel narrow
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 5 | Sole material: TPR (thermoplastic rubber), EVA midsole
Elevate your summer ensemble with this colorful — and comfortable — flip-flop from Clarks. This lightweight pair offers feminine details with intricate detailing on the strap and cushioned footbed that feels like stepping on the clouds.
Aerothotic Original Orthotic Comfort Thong Style Flip-Flops
- Great arch support
- Sturdy construction
- Can feel tight
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 18 | Sole material: Polyurethane, faux-leather lining
With more than 30,000 verified five-star ratings, customers confirm this is the pair to wear if you have flat feet, bone spurs and other heel issues. "The platform is sturdy and cupped to hold the foot comfortably and securely. I have flat arches and find that these provide just the right amount of support," said one shopper.
Gone For a Run PR Soles Active Recovery Sandal
- Ideal for post recovery
- Very sturdy
- Thong can feel tight
Size: 6-13 | Colors: 5 | Sole material: Foam, neoprene
If you're an athlete looking for a recovery sandal, this one aims to alleviate pain and increase blood flow. The design features a pointed footbed that gently massages your feet when you take a step. With a lightweight construction and non-slip footbed, this sandal is a great choice to wear post-workout.
"The first night I got them, I wore them sitting down and my aching feet loved them. They’re a specialized shoe and too much massage on any body part can hurt after too long, so I don’t recommend these for all-day wear," said one Amazon shopper.
Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flops
- Comfortable and supportive
- Inside tag sticks out
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 100 | Sole material: The brand's ChacoGrip outsole
These flip-flops are designed to keep your feet close to the ground and feature the brand's LUVSEAT support that promotes a healthy alignment. It also has a thick rubber that provides minimal elevation and a thick strap to keep your feet in place.
Reef Women’s Cushion Bondi
- Very comfortable
- Feels cushioned
- A bit too high
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 4 | Sole material: N/A
Reef is known for their cult-favorite beach sandals, but this pair in particular features a design that gently molds to the foot. The flip-flop has foam padding for comfort, along with molded EVA with an anatomical arch for easy adjustment. This one has a tropical design on the footbed and captures the laidback vibes of the brand.
Aetrex Fiji Orthotic Flips
- Have high arches
- Ideal for flat feet
- Requires break in period
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 13 | Sole material: The brand's UltraSky™ EVA
If you have heel pain, Morton’s neuroma, bunions, arch pain, plantar fasciitis or another foot issue, these flip-flops were made for you. The pair relieves lingering foot pain and features arch support, a pressure relief footbed, dual density outsole, metatarsal pad and soft toe post for extra comfort. Also, the water-friendly construction is made for all water-related activities.
Merrell Women's Hut Ultra Flip
Size: 6-15 | Colors: 4 | Material: Foam insole, EVA outsole
Merrell is best known for their hiking shoes, but the brand's flip-flops are equally comfortable and adaptable for hot days outside. These are built with a FloatMax technology that adds stability and a smooth underfoot experience. The flip-flop is treated with Cleansport NXT that allows odor control, while the breathable upper will protect your skin even if you accidentally wet your sandals.
Hoka Ora Recovery Flip
- Ideal for plantar fasciitis
- Feel lightweight
- Straps tend to rub
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 5 | Sole material: EVA
After the run comes the recovery, and these Hoka flip-flops provide that. The design features a soft EVA layer to step forward comfortably and without restriction. Some customers with plantar fasciitis also love this product for its cushioned feel and wider style.
Flirty Braidy Rainbow Sandal
- Very durable
- Can get wet
- They stain easily
Size: 5.5-11 | Colors: 12 | Sole material: Memory foam, rubber outsole
Assistant partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky has owned a pair of Rainbow sandals since she was in high school, proving their durability after all these years thanks to their leather material. With single layer arch support and crafted with premium leather, they're bound to provide comfort and longevity.
Witonsky notes that they're "so comfy," and while they're nearing the point of no return, she's "wearing them until a strap breaks."
Oofos OOlala Women's Sandal
- Very supportive
- Ideal for plantar fasciitis
- Runs wide
Size: 6-10 | Colors: 2 | Sole material: Foam
What makes this top-rated flip-flop a favorite among Amazon shoppers is the OOfoam technology, which absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear, according to the brand. It's meant to support arches and reduce exertion in the ankles, especially for runners. With more than 12,000 ratings, it makes sense these shoes are durable and reliable for outdoor adventures.
One Amazon shopper called these the best post-long run footwear. "The Oofos are a part of my long run 'packing list'. I look forward to putting them on as soon as I finish to allow my feet to breathe while walking around in comfort."
OluKai ‘Ohana
- Great arch support
- They don't get slippery
- They can run large
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 16 | Sole material: EVA midsole, rubber outsole
If you're spending the day by the water, choose this water-resistant flip-flop with a smooth drop-in footbed. The pair offers a high arch and wider footbed for an ultra-comfy fit. What makes it super efficient is the compression-molded EVA midsole and a rubber outsole with razor-siped edges for better grip.
One Shop TODAY writer can attest to the longevity of her 'Ohanas — for starters, her pair has lasted her 5+ years. "I once wore them at high tide in Australia and was surprised to find that they even hold up well in salt water. When I visited Israel's Dead Sea and was warned the salty bottom would hurt my bare feet, I just packed these sandals."
Vionic Bella Toe Post Sandal
- Great arch support
- Tend to run wide
Size: 5-13 | Colors: 9 | Sole material: Rubber outsole
The contoured footbed of these Vionic flip-flops help provide ultimate comfort and support during warm days. Also, this style looks more elegant than many pairs of recovery sandals, thanks to the cork upper and microfiber-covered footbed. Plus, there's even a supportive rubber sole.
"I suffered from heel spurs, Morton’s neuroma, plantar fasciitis, arthritis and some neuropathy from my back. No more pain," shared one shopper who wears Vionic daily.
Tread Labs Women's Covelo Sandals
- Comfortable footbed
- Feel lightweight
- Toe part can run
- It's recommended to size up
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 3 | Sole material: Microfiber suede footbed, polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole
If you're a fan of Chacos, you'll love this brand offering recovery sandals for men and women. This style offers arch support and features knit uppers to make your stride comfortable and pain-free. Tread Labs focuses on delivering a durable shoe that won't snap when you fall. The upper is directly attached to the shoe construction and the microfiber suede footbed will help your feet stay cool. Also, this sandal is made with an anti-microbial treatment to keep your feet fresh and clean.
"I was not expecting such a comfortable hold on my foot with the Covelo. The straps were well positioned to cradle my foot and the footbed supported me in just the right places," said one buyer.
How we chose
We asked Dr. Brad Schaeffer for the best materials and features to look for in flip flops, and we selected those based on customers' preferences, editors' favorites and top-rated flip-flops. Many with arch support were selected as a main feature to help keep your arches from collapsing while wearing flip-flops.
Meet the expert
- Dr. Brad Schaeffer is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon based in NYC. He has been featured in other Shop TODAY pieces including shoes for high arches and best boots for winter.
