Breathable shoes are a must for warm weather. 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 with cushioned footbeds, Shop TODAY talked to board-certified foot surgeons Dr. Brad Schaeffer and Dr. Miguel Cunha to find the best qualities and styles.
Best materials for flip-flops
Choosing the right material is essential for shoppers looking to buy long-lasting flip-flops. Our experts say ethylene vinyl acetate, also known as EVA, is one of the best materials for flip-flops because this foam material is comfortable, lightweight, flexible and water resistant.
Other synthetic materials to look for are PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane).
“These materials are commonly used in the production of flip-flops because they are durable, water resistant, easy to clean and more affordable than leather,” Cunha explains.
The rubber-like material neoprene also offers a soft and stretchy support for your feet, and it dries quickly, making it comfortable to wear and ideal for water-related activities.
If you prefer an organic material, our experts suggest leather or cork flip-flops. Cunha says, “cork offers natural moisture-wicking properties and customized support as they mold to the shape of your feet over time.”
The best expert-recommended flip-flops
These ergonomic flip-flops are some of the best on the market, earning them the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) stamp of approval. The ultra-lightweight and flexible material is made for sensitive feet as the comfort technology allows for natural foot movement as you strut through the day.
“They are designed with an anatomically contoured footbed made with extra foam cushioning that provides superior shock absorption and rebound with every step,” Cunha says.
Clarks shows shoppers that you don’t have to sacrifice style for support. 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.
The Breeze Sea flip-flops, which are recommended by Cunha, come in over 40 colors and have adjustable straps to give you a more personalized fit.
Have flat feet? These sandals, which Cunha recommends, are designed to cradle your foot and are engineered with the Oofos’ arch technology that absorbs 37% more impact than other footwear, according to the brand. Reviewers have turned to these shoes as durable and reliable options for any outdoor adventures.
Birkenstocks have been shoppers' go-to sandal brand for decades because of their durability and timeless design, and this pair in particular is recommended by Cunha. The leather upper and cork footbed contour around your feet to provide support for years to come.
Cunha says Ascent’s flip-flops provide superior arch support to prevent overpronation and relieve pain, particularly in people suffering from plantar fasciitis.
“These flip-flops have a uniquely designed plantar fascial groove and built-in orthotic arch support, which naturally molds to the shape of the foot,” he explains. “The top footbed layer provides excellent cushioning while a firm, durable sole and elevated heel lift corrects foot posture to reduce muscle strain and fatigue.”
Vionic’s Bella Toe Post sandal, recommended by Cunha, was made for the style icon who loves comfort. The flexible shock-absorbing EVA midsole and built-in orthotic in these flip-flops earned them recognition from the APMA.
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.
The best editor-loved flip-flops
“I brought my Archies flip-flops with me for a two-week trip to Vietnam recently and they were one of the only pairs of shoes I packed,” raves photo editor Vivian Le. “The arch support makes the shoe so comfortable that I found myself not only wearing them to the beach, but during my shopping days around Da Nang.”
I [Espinal] own a pair of these incredible flip-flops and love how well they adjust to my arches. As someone with the first stages of plantar fasciitis, I enjoy how my feet acclimate to these flip-flops. After a run, I usually step into this pair since they provide shock absorption and arch support. Plus, I feel that my muscles recover faster after wearing these.
This is one of my [Espinal] favorite brands for its comfort technology and sturdy outsole. I have worn these flip-flops at the beach, pool and vacation outings without feeling fatigue or foot pain. They have arch support and a thick thong that holds your feet into the footbed.
"I live in flip-flops in the summer, especially when I'm back home on the Jersey Shore," shares senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil. "When I want to look casual but still put together, I reach for my Tkees. I love how they look with everything from denim shorts to white jeans to sundresses."
Deputy editorial director Alexandra Deabler has been wearing Rainbow flip-flops since high school.
"These have arch support. I’ve been wearing them since high school (they were all the rage in California in the 2000s). However, they are pretty narrow. So I don’t know how well they’d work for someone with wide feet," says Deabler.
Similar to Deabler, associate editor Lauren Witonsky has also 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.”
I'm also an avid fan of these modern flip-flops from Solei Sea. This is probably my favorite pair of flip-flops at the moment. I love the thick straps, cushioned sole and arch support, which helps my plantar fasciitis. I will be taking these to my home in Florida and wearing them daily since they offer good grip, a classic element and support for leisurely walks.
Editorial assistant Annie Shigo is a big fan of these sleek sandals from Vagabond. "They are comfy and great for walking around if you want to be stylish," she says. "The sole is very cushioned and secure." These fashionable sandals are great for the pool or the beach, and pair well with a cute pair of jeans.
What are the benefits of wearing flip-flops?
Our experts say convenience is the number one benefit of flip-flops. Their practical design allows you to easily slip them on and off, and their breathability makes them the perfect shoes for warm weather.
The right flip-flop can also help maintain your foot health. Cunha suggests wearing flip-flops in “shared bathing areas and gym facilities to prevent the transmission of microorganisms like fungus, bacteria and viruses that can cause conditions such as athlete’s foot, fungal nails, foot odor and warts.”
While Schaffer is not a fan of flip-flops, he mentions that 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,” he says.
Features to look for when shopping for flip-flops
If you don’t own the right pair of flip-flops, your feet can have potential issues such as plantar fasciitis and overpronation. Podiatrist Dr. Kaitlyn Ward suggests following these tips when shopping for flip-flops.
- Arch support: “Choose flip-flops with good arch support to help maintain the natural alignment of your feet and reduce strain on your arches.”
- Cushioning: “Look for flip-flops with adequate cushioning to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the feet.”
- Footbed design: “A contoured footbed that mimics the natural shape of your foot can provide better support and comfort.
- Straps: “Opt for flip-flops with sturdy, comfortable straps that do not cause irritation or blisters. Straps that secure around the back of the heel can provide added stability.”
Frequently asked questions
You can usually gauge when a flip-flop has become loose or has extended wear. If the sole feels too flat or the shoes easily bend in half, then it's time to buy a new pair.
Like any other summer sandal, flip-flops can cause blisters. These usually appear between "the toes or on the outside of the foot where the straps rub against the skin," says Schaeffer. "Flip-flops that fit well and that have arch support and cushioned footbeds and heel cups may cause less blistering," he continues.
But even with the right flip-flop, blisters are bound to occur. The best way to avoid this discomfort is to keep your feet clean and dry. Schaeffer also advises applying a foot cream before putting your flip-flops on since "open-backed shoes can lead to heels drying out, causing them to crack and potentially contribute to discoloration and other issues."
Our experts say wearing the wrong flip-flops can worsen existing foot conditions.
Cunha says wearing flip-flops that lack proper orthotic arch support for prolonged periods of time may lead to excessive collapsing of the arch, also known as overpronation.
“Our arches naturally pronate, which means that they collapse when we stand and walk during the gait cycle,” Cunha explains. “Overpronation may increase the progression of underlying foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes and overuse injuries such as plantar fasciitis, posterior tibial tendonitis (shin splints) and achilles tendinitis. This imbalance can also translate up the body affecting our knees, hips and back.”
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."
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How we chose
We asked podiatrists 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 experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on the best flip-flops. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- 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.
- Dr. Miguel Cunha is a foot and ankle surgeon based in New York City. Cunha has experience in a wide array of foot and ankle conditions, including reconstructive surgery.
- Dr. Kaitlyn Ward is a board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon who’s also the resident expert at ZenToes, a brand focused on finding solutions for bunions, dry skin, toe care and more.
Fiesta Americana Bicycle Classic Rim Luncheon Plate (9 Inch)
Fiesta Americana Bicycle Classic Rim Luncheon Plate (9 Inch)