How to Choose Healthier Flip-Flops

Choose Flip-Flops that Bend Only in the Ball of the Foot

Cheap flip-flops usually lack any structure or support for the foot. If you can bend them in half or twist them into a pretzel, they aren't going to help prevent foot fatigue.

A good flip-flop bends only where you need it to flex when walking—in the ball of the foot. "This minimal flexibility indicates the proper balance, arch support, and alignment for healthy feet," says podiatrist Phil Vasyli.

Get the Right Size

Your heels and toes should not be hanging off the edge of the sole, inviting rocks and toys to give you a nasty cut or stubbed toe. One walker calls this "shrimp cocktail toes."

Likewise, don't just slip into an oversized pair with edges that can catch on uneven surfaces and cause you to trip. Take special care when driving while wearing flip-flops. The sole can get trapped under the accelerator and cause an accident.

Replace Worn Out Flip-Flops

Flip-flops aren't forever. Before you slip into them, look for cracks in the soles and uppers or signs that the post is coming loose. You don't want a blowout to trip you up. If there is a deep foot indentation in the sole, or you can see the outlines of your toes from last year, it's time to replace them.

Where Not to Wear Flip-Flops

You'll quickly find that going downhill on a steep slope is a bad idea when wearing flip-flops. The toe posts can bite into your feet. They aren't great for going uphill, either, as you can slide right out of them.

Flip-flops change your walking gait because your toes flex to try to keep the sandal on your foot. Flip-flops do not allow you to achieve a powerful walking stride by striking with the heel and pushing off with the toe. You end up with a shorter stride and just slogging along flat-footed.

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) says that you shouldn't wear flip-flops for distance walking. Also, don't wear them for gardening or while playing sports. Wear athletic shoes for walking, hiking shoes for hiking, and garden shoes for gardening.

You can wear flip-flops at the pool, beach, party, or around the house for light walking.

Avoid Foot Irritation

The toe post and straps can cause rubbing, irritation, and blisters. You can prevent these minor injuries by using an anti-blister lubricant or pads until your feet have developed tougher skin in those areas.

Check for the APMA Seal of Acceptance

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recognizes flip-flops that provide proper foot support and promote good foot health with their Seal of Acceptance, which they have been awarding for more than 50 years.

To get the seal, the product is reviewed by a group of podiatrists and they examine the evidence the company provides on product testing for safety and quality control.

Products that don't have thorough documentation or that don't promote good foot health are rejected. The seal is awarded for up to a three-year period and renewal must be requested by the manufacturer.

APMA has a complete list of flip-flops that have received the Seal of Acceptance on their site. You'll note that only a few companies have received this recognition. Here are representative models from these manufacturers, in alphabetic order, with the features that make them superior choices.

FitFlop

FitFlop sandals have a microwobbleboard technology, which basically gives your feet mini-massages all over as you walk. They provide excellent cushioning. FitFlop also received the APMA Seal of Acceptance. They are a good choice to wear after a long walk, or for wearing on a long day of shopping and standing. They don't have the arch support you find in the Vionic designs, which suits those who have lower arches.

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Vionic Flip-Flops 

Australian podiatrist Phil Vasyli designed his Vionic line to prevent overpronation. If you wear motion control shoes for sports and fitness walking, his flip-flops can continue to provide the guidance your feet need to correct for this gait problem. Vionic has both beach styles of flip-flops and dress styles for those parties around the shrimp on the barbie.

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Chaco Flip Flops

Chaco is another brand that has quite a few styles for both men and women on the APMA list. Recommended styles include Lost Coast Leather, Lost Coast Web, Marshall, and My Flip.

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OOFOS Recovery Footwear

OOFOS is known for its "recovery" footwear which can be especially comfy after a long run, long walk, or hike. But they also provide extra cushion and comfort for your feet any time of day. OOFOS Luxe slide sandals, sports sandals, and Oorginal sandals are easy to wear and come in a range of colors.

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