Are flip-flops bad for your feet?

Flip-flops are extremely lightweight, fashionable, and easy to travel with, but they do have some downsides. Many flip-flops lack the arch support and shock absorption of other footwear such as sandals and aren’t suitable for long walks.

Should flip-flops be tight or loose?

You’ll want to find a middle ground when it comes to the fit of your flip-flops. If they are too tight, it can cause blisters from rubbing, but if they are too loose, they can slip off your feet while walking.

How long should flip-flops last?

Depending on how and where you use them, flip-flops can last 3 to 6 months of continuous use. That said, it’s often the toe-post that breaks away before the sole wears out, so make sure you buy flip-flops that are well-made and durable.

How do you know if your flip-flops fit correctly?

Your toes should not hang over the edge of the flip-flop, but they should also be fairly close to the edge with a small gap. Another test is to pinch your toes together. If the flip-flop falls off even when squeezing, they are too big.

The 16 Best Flip-Flops for Men and Women [2022]

Laidback and lightweight underneath your feet, our love affair with the humble flip-flop never dies. Conjure up exotic vacations in faraway places by simply slipping on your favorite pair, even if you’re only headed out on the school run or to the store, and let your footwear give you the summer feels all year round.

Fun, funky, and affordable, there are flip-flops out there to suit every foot, every wearer, and every budget, and we’ve chosen just a few of the best that are just perfect for travel.

Things To Consider With Flip-flops

Flip-flops are an excellent addition to your regular footwear, but before you jump in, consider the following:

Weight and Portability

Flip-flops are some of the lightest footwear known to humankind, and they are designed to be able to be thrown in your beach bag or slipped into your pocket. Made from super-flexible, waterproof, and skin-friendly synthetic rubber materials, flip-flops weigh next to nothing.

With fabric or rubber uppers that are just 2 single straps and a toe post, even the most glamorous of flip-flops encrusted in jewels still probably wouldn’t weigh you down on the go. Tie them together or tuck them into each other to take up very little room in your travel bag.

Bottom Line: Perfect for use back at home, many people like to take their super comfy flip-flops with them on nights out for extra comfort on the way home, too.

Comfort

Flip-flops are comfortable, but their design’s very nature means that they won’t usually offer fancy features such as enhanced support or ergonomic extras. That said, some of our favorites come with raised or cushioned footbeds that follow the contours of your feet, while others have textured footbeds that prevent your feet from slipping up and down and falling out.

Toe posts offer comfort and versatility, and the forward positioning will help to keep your flip-flops firmly on your feet while you walk. Look for those that have fabric or soft rubber toe-posts, and be sure to try before you buy as some can feel more comfortable between your toes than others.

Material and Durability

Molded EVA and rubber are the most practical and comfortable materials for the footbed and sole. With the flexibility to bend with your gait’s natural cycle while still offering some support and protection from the ground underneath, rubber soles are just one of the reasons that flip-flops are so awesome.

You can choose from molded plastic, rubber, nylon, or other synthetic materials when it comes to the upper portion of these super-comfy beach slippers. While some are just a continuation of the material found on the sole, others take the style and design to the next level with suede-lined nylon and other skin-friendly fabrics that feel super soft and comfortable without ever rubbing against your skin.

Style

Part of the attraction of flip-flops is the simplicity of their design. Versatile, practical, and easy to wear, they slip on and off in an instant and can be worn in a wide variety of settings. Their casual, laid-back vibe is what makes them such a big hit with virtually everyone.

Hot Tip: Suppose you want to give your flip-flops a glow-up. In that case, you can choose cute colors, pretty floral fabric designs, or even sparkly straps to transform a piece of traditional beachwear into the perfect accessory for partying in the sun.

Use

The ultimate pair of flip-flops can be worn almost anywhere and will be just as comfortable at home as when you are away. Perfect for slipping into at the pool, on the beach, or in the gym, these versatile multi-functional pieces of footwear can also be worn at the bar, in the garden, or even just around the home.

The 8 Best Flip-flops for Men

Masculine and made for comfort, these men’s flip-flops are perfect for beach lovers and bar hoppers alike.

1. Big-brand Brazilian Flip-flops

DISCOUNT: 5%

BEST OVERALL: Havaianas Top Men's Flip Flops

Havaianas flip-flop sandals are made of durable rubber. They're waterproof, so they won't slip off while you wear them, and they won't cause blisters if you wear them in water.

Havaianas Top Men’s Flip-Flops

These minimalist flip-flops are perfect for wearing on virtually any occasion, and their cool big brand logo will see you wearing some of the trendiest summer shoes in town. With their rubber soles’ unmistakable texture, these Brazilian flip-flops are comfortable, practical, and on-trend year in and year out.

Available in a wide range of colors and designs, these flip-flops will feel as soft as marshmallows underneath your feet, while the toe post is made from strong and durable plastic material that will keep your feet in place without hurting or rubbing on them.

Designed to be resistant to heat to ensure that you never have to step into hot shoes, the non-slip soles ensure that you can walk proudly around the pool. Suitable for use both in and out of the water, these stylish flip-flops make a practical fashion statement all on their own.

What We Like

Good grip on the soles

What We Don’t Like

Runs quite small

2. Great for Wearing by the Water

UPGRADE PICK: OluKai Ohana Men's Beach Sandals

A water-resistant flip-flop option that will mold to your foot for guaranteed comfort. They'll get more comfortable the more you wear them because they'll give you the support you need.

OluKai Men’s Ohana

These super comfortable men’s flip-flops are strong and sturdy and come in a wide variety of colors to complement every outfit. With a non-marking rubber sole with a coral reef lug design, they are practical enough to be worn at the beach, around the pool, and even on long walks in the sun.

The innovative design features an anatomically contoured sole that molds to the shape of the foot for increased comfort, even when worn for long periods. With an EVA midsole, these flip-flops feel incredibly stable and secure underfoot, and the soft nylon toe post webbing makes them soft and supple enough to wear straight out of the box.

Featuring synthetic leather uppers with a neoprene lining, these flip-flops feel soft against your skin, and the water-resistant and quick-drying composition ensures that these are a great choice for wearing, even when you are close to the water.

What We Like

Great support on the sole

What We Don’t Like

Quite expensive

3. Most Comfortable Crocs for Your Feet

DISCOUNT: 33%

Crocs Unisex-Adult Crocband Flip Flop

Waterproof flip-flops made of the brand's signature foam. They're comfortable and won't stain or fall apart. They're a unisex option that will give you plenty of traction on slippery surfaces.

Crocband Flip-Flop

Offering the eye-catching looks and unique design traits that the Crocs brand is so famous for, these flip-flops are easy on the feet and incredibly practical. With sporty good looks and ultra-lightweight construction, these waterproof flip-flops are a great choice for long days on the beach or slipping your feet into when you exit the pool.

Made using the brand’s patented Croslite foam, these flip-flops offer massage-pod footbeds that leave your feet feeling comfortable all day long. With a wider design than the average flip-flop, these multi-function sandals feel roomier than most, offering your feet excellent protection on the road.

Available in a wide choice of colors, these flip-flops feature the signature midsole racing stripe, and their water-friendly design makes them incredibly buoyant and an excellent choice for wearing when you are fishing, kayaking, sailing, or even just dipping your toes in the ocean.

What We Like

Good for wider feet

What We Don’t Like

Not comfortable for walking long distances

4. Best Vegan Flip-flops for Everyday Wear

DISCOUNT: 13%

12,042 Reviews

Reef Men's Twinpin Sandals

A leather-free option for people who want something durable and stylish for hot days. They're made of rubber and plastic, so they're waterproof and flexible. They also won't cause blisters.

Reef Men’s Twinpin Sandals

Smart enough to be worn on casual days out and comfortable enough to be worn all day long, these handsome flip-flops are a cut above the rest. The vegan leather upper straps are lined with a soft and skin-friendly jersey, and the contoured design wraps around the shape of your feet without you having to worry about them rubbing.

Offering a soft EVA footbed that features built-in anatomical arch support, these flip-flops help your feet stay correctly aligned when walking. The triple-density EVA construction offers excellent protection on rocky terrain while allowing the sole to bend and flex to complement the natural cycle of your gait.

The flexible design adds a comfort level that you would not usually associate with flip-flops, and the wider midsole ensures that your feet never slip or slide around while you are walking.

Available in a range of classic colorways, these awesome flip-flops are incredibly stylish and offer increased comfort in every step.

What We Like

Smart and stylish

What We Don’t Like

Slippy insoles when wet

5. Great for Beach Lovers Everywhere

Teva Men's Mush II Flip-Flop

An option from Teva that is not only comfortable but also breathable. Their straps are made of webbed cotton, so they're soft and flexible, making them perfect for walking.

Teva Men’s Mush II Flip-Flop

A firm favorite with beach lovers, backpackers, and outdoor adventures alike, these classic Teva flip-flops feature a wide strap and super-bouncy rubber soles. Available in a choice of colors, they offer laid-back good looks and a soft and sporty feel underfoot.

The cotton webbing upper is quick-drying and easy to clean, and the wide footbed ensures better support for your foot without having to worry about sore spots or blisters. With a dual-density EVA midsole, these flip-flops bend and flex to suit a variety of different terrains, and the grippy outsole offers an impressive amount of traction, even on wet surfaces.

Offering a comfortable and practical blend of textile uppers and rubber soles, these Teva flip-flops are lightweight enough to carry everywhere with you, and the patented design offers incredible comfort and durability, making them the perfect choice for a wide variety of water sports and outdoor adventures.

What We Like

Thick and comfortable EVA midsole

What We Don’t Like

The flip-flops take a while to dry

6. Canvas Flip-flops for Everyday Wear

21,239 Reviews

FITORY Men's Flip-Flops

Soft beach sandals that give you a little support. They have a small platform that keeps you from getting uncomfortable while you're walking on even or uneven terrain like sand.

FITORY Men’s Flip-Flops

These chunky-looking flip-flops will make you feel like you are walking on air, while the practical, waterproof design makes them the perfect choice for everyday wear. With a more sturdy and durable construction than many of their contemporaries, these flip-flops make light work of city streets while still being lightweight and incredibly comfortable underfoot.

The wide canvas strap is gentle against the skin, and the spacious footbed makes these suitable for men of all shapes and sizes. The toe thong is strong enough to cope with many miles of walking while still feeling soft against your toes, and the open design makes them easy to slip on and off in an instant.

The thick, wide sole is true to size and offers excellent traction and grip, while the quick-drying design makes them suitable for wearing on wet ground. Available in a wide range of colors, these stylish-looking flip-flops are easy to clean to prevent any erosion from salt water, and the flexible rubber sole helps you to walk comfortably even over uneven terrain.

7. Best Leather Flip-flops

DISCOUNT: 13%

Reef Men's Smoothy Sandals

These flip-flops are made of genuine leather that's been treated to feel buttery soft and comfortable. They're also remarkably flexible but won't crease or weaken, so they'll last for years.

Reef Men’s Smoothy Sandals

Stylish and sophisticated, these flip-flops feature 100% leather uppers that feel smooth against your skin. Designed to be water-friendly and incredibly durable, you can dip your toes in the water while wearing these and enjoy many miles of comfortable wear on hot sand, rocky terrain, and even just out on the open road.

The simple yet effective leather strap design will mold to the shape of your foot the more often you wear them, and the lightweight, cushioned footbed will feel pillow-soft beneath your feet.

Offering patented Reef-flex triple density EVA construction and anatomically correct arch support, these flip-flops offer as much comfort and support as your sneakers do while allowing your feet to breathe and stay cool, even in the warmest of weather.

Designed to be worn by guys who like to live the beach life without limits, their sporty good looks and premium design make these an easy way to transition from beachwear to the bar. They are available in a selection of colorways, so you can easily find the perfect color to complement your clothing on your next vacation.

8. Best Retro Style Flip-flops

DISCOUNT: 13%

Sanuk Men's Fraid Not

Made of soft suede, these flip-flops are able to withstand all types of weather. They're not waterproof, but they're fast drying and breathable. They also won't blister uncomfortably or break.

Sanuk Men’s Fraid Not

Look sharp on the sand with these über-cool flip-flops that feature vintage good looks and plenty of practicality. With canvas straps backed with skin-friendly neoprene and a terry cloth liner for increased breathability, these are a brilliant choice for use on the beach, around the pool, or even at the bar.

With a cushioned silhouette and a premium suede sock liner for all-day comfort, these flip-flops are a sensible choice for walking long distances, and the classic ’90s styling and laid-back California feel is on-trend for discerning adventurers.

The high-rebound EVA footbed helps to cushion the impact of walking on uneven terrain, and the Happy U rubber outsole offers long-lasting, super-grippy performance that ensures you can walk without worrying, even in wet conditions around the pool.

The 8 Best Flip-flops for Women

Available in a range of attractive colors with fashionable designs, these flip-flops are designed to complement and support the shape of the female foot.

1. Foot-friendly and Super Fashionable Flip-flop

10,905 Reviews

BEST OVERALL: Havaianas Women's Top Tiras Flip-Flop Sandal

A comfortable sandal that's flexible and durable. Made out of rubber instead of foam, the sole won't break apart when walking on rough terrain or if it gets wet often.

Havaianas Women’s Top Tiras Flip-Flop Sandal

Available in a stunning choice of 3 metallic colorways, these beautiful flip-flops are lovely to look at and super comfortable to wear. Handcrafted to provide a tailor-made fit, Havaianas are some of the most on-trend flip-flops out there.

Made from 100% rubber, the upper toe post strap features embossed logos and a gentle sheen, while the lightly textured footbed will help to keep your feet stay firmly held in place as you walk.

Incredibly lightweight, you can throw these in your beach bag for an easy change of footwear, and the high-quality construction ensures that they remain resistant to the heat of hot sidewalks while always being grippy enough to stop you from slipping on wet floors.

Combine comfort underfoot with high fashion in this beautiful range of soft metallic flip-flops from an ever-popular Brazilian brand.

2. Best Crocs for Wear Without Socks

DISCOUNT: 30%

UPGRADE PICK: Crocband Flip-Flops

Thanks to their wide strap, these flip-flops won't cut or irritate your foot if you wear them for long periods of time. They also feel comfortable and soft when worn.

Crocband Flip-Flops

With a sporty and lightweight design, these unisex summer flip-flops come in a variety of color choices and are suitable for wearers of all sizes. Featuring the patented Croslite foam construction, these summer sandals are as comfortable and innovative as you would expect from the foot care experts responsible for the iconic Crocs shoes.

The upper soles offer massage-pod footbeds ensuring that these flip-flops are designed to keep your feet feeling comfortable all day long. With a wider and roomier fit than some of the other makes and models available, these flip-flops will naturally conform to the cycle of your gait without ever slipping off of your feet or allowing your feet to fall forward.

Easy to clean with just a little soap and water, these flip-flops are completely waterproof, and their tough plastic construction and excellent buoyancy make them suitable for wearing both in the water and outside of it.

3. Most Fashionable of All the Crocs Flip-flops

DISCOUNT: 21%

Crocs Women's Kadee II Flip-Flop

These flip-flops are sturdy and durable. They won't break or lose their shape even after the 100th time they're worn. They also flexibly move with your foot while you walk.

Crocs Women’s Kadee II Flip-Flop

Another winning waterproof shoe from the Crocs collection, these flip-flops offer a laid-back vibe and incredible comfort. With slim and sleek straps, you can kick these off in an instant, and being available in a choice of colors, you can easily find the perfect pair to suit your style.

With a roomy, generous fit, these toe post-flip-flops offer 360-degrees of comfort and a firm hold on your foot, while the soft TPU toe post will help to prevent pain or blisters, even in wet conditions. With grips in the footbed, these flip-flops won’t slip up and down while you are walking, and the flatter and wider design ensure that your heels never slip to one side.

Water-friendly and easy to clean, these are a practical and reliable choice of shoes for wearing in and around the water, and with an awesome plastic design, they are also incredibly buoyant should you want to venture into the water while keeping them on your feet.

4. Best Flip-flops for Yoga

22,536 Reviews

Sanuk Women's Yoga Mat Flip-Flops

These flip-flops are soft and form around your foot. They're made with the same cushioned foam as yoga mats, so you can walk on them for long distances without discomfort.

Sanuk Women’s Yoga Mat Flip-Flops

Truly feel like you are walking on air with these supersoft and lightweight yoga flip-flops that can be used for meditation, on the beach, around the pool, or even just to keep your feet feeling comfy back at home.

Made from 100% synthetic rubber, these incredibly well-cushioned flip-flops feature a sole that feels just as comfortable as your yoga mat, promising an all-around, much more zen experience wherever you are headed.

With a cushioned thong made from extra-wide and supersoft canvas fabric, these flip-flops will stay securely on your feet without rubbing or causing blisters, and the cotton lining feels soft against your skin. With a wider-than-average footbed design, these flip-flops will ensure that your feet stay well-protected from stones and sand.

Work out wherever you are with these beautiful yoga flip-flops that come complete with a 1-centimeter heel height and a flexible midsole that can flex and bend to suit your surroundings.

Bottom Line: Soft and squishy beneath your feet, these awesome sandals will make you feel like you are walking on air.

5. Sparkly Flip-flops for Instant Glamour

DISCOUNT: 25%

Reef Women's Stargazer

A classic option if you plan to wear your flip-flops in the water. They're fast-drying and won't retain water, even if they've been completely submerged. They're also heavy-duty yet comfortable.

Reef Women’s Stargazer

Supercute and just a little bit fancy, these gorgeous sparkly flip-flops are perfect for pool parties, beach brunches, and long evenings spent around the bar. Available in a choice of glamorous colorways with sparkly straps, these supercute sandals are perfect for enjoying yourself in both the sunlight and the moonlight.

Made from 100% synthetic rubber with 0.75-inch heels, they have a classic toe post design that keeps your feet securely held in the sandal, as well as a soft and bouncy rubber sole that is heat- and water-resistant.

The perfect addition to any beach outfit, these spacious and comfortable flip-flops are designed to withstand the rigors of beach life without losing their sparkle, and the quality Reef construction ensures that you can enjoy dancing in them for many years to come.

6. Pretty and Practical Everyday Flip-flops

Roxy Women's Vista Sandal Flip-Flop

A no-stress flip-flop that's easy to take care of. They're made of comfortable and sturdy fabric materials, so you can machine-wash them without worrying they'll fall apart or get ruined.

Roxy Women’s Vista Sandal Flip-Flop

Pretty and practical, these everyday flip-flops come in a variety of colorways and are comfortable enough to be worn all day long. Just as suitable for days on the beach as they are for nights on the town, these laid-back flip-flops feature oversized logos on the footbed and gorgeous good looks all the way around.

Lightweight and incredibly portable, you will want to take these brilliant little flip-flops with you on every vacation, and the water-friendly EVA upper with polyweb nubuck toe post feels soft and comfortable against your skin.

Featuring the stunning Roxy heritage floral print on the footbed, these flip-flops are even beautiful when you walk, and the brushed texture on the footbed and super bouncy sole will make you feel like you are walking on air every time you wear them.

7. Everyday Flip-flops With a Supersoft Footbed

DISCOUNT: 12%

Reef Women's Zen Love Sandal

Extremely easy-to-wear sandals that are comfortable and won't slip off or break apart. They have a good grip to give you traction while you walk on slippery surfaces, as well.

Reef Women’s Zen Love Sandal

Made from 100% synthetic materials, these awesome flip-flops feature a unique design that sets them apart from the others. Handcrafted to offer upscale looks and incredible comfort, these flip-flops feature a flexible rubber sponge construction to make you feel like you are walking on little pillows of air.

With a soft and supportive EVA footbed, you can walk for many miles at a time without worrying about pain in your feet, and the woven polyester straps will keep your foot firmly in the shoe without ever having to worry about blisters.

Water-friendly and easy to clean, these flip-flops are perfect when you want to dip your toe in the water, and the classic design and versatility means you can wear these on the beach, around the pool, or even out for dinner in the evening.

8. Ergonomic Flip-flops To Keep Your Feet Happy

Under Armour Women's Atlantic Dune T Flip-Flop

Flip-flops with a massage cushion sole that will give you support while you wear them. They're made of durable, waterproof rubber that will keep them from wearing down or cracking.

Under Armour Women’s Atlantic Dune T Flip-Flop

These ergonomically designed flip-flops will help to keep your feet feeling comfortable on the go. They are water-friendly, heat-resistant, incredibly easy to wear, and are made from soft and strong rubber and synthetic materials.

Featuring fast-drying TPU straps that guarantee extreme comfort even in the sweltering heat, the ultra-cushioned footbed will make you feel like you are walking on air. Perfect for wearing on the beach, around the pool, and even on the hot city streets, these are the ultimate flip-flops for throwing in your bag for a quick change of footwear.

Available in a selection of cute and cool pastel colorways, these flip-flops have a textured footbed and sole to offer increased traction.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to style it out around the pool or need something a bit more substantial for long walks in the bush, there is a flip-flop to suit virtually every type of outdoor adventure.

With the reliability and practicality they offer around the water, the laid-back looks at the beach bar, and even just the simple comfort of flip-flopping around the house, these super-simple summer sandals are perfect for everyone.

Things To Consider With Flip-flops

Weight and Portability

Comfort

Material and Durability

Style

Use

The 8 Best Flip-flops for Men

1. Big-brand Brazilian Flip-flops

Havaianas Top Men’s Flip-Flops

2. Great for Wearing by the Water

OluKai Men’s Ohana

3. Most Comfortable Crocs for Your Feet

Crocband Flip-Flop

4. Best Vegan Flip-flops for Everyday Wear

Reef Men’s Twinpin Sandals

5. Great for Beach Lovers Everywhere

Teva Men’s Mush II Flip-Flop

6. Canvas Flip-flops for Everyday Wear

FITORY Men’s Flip-Flops

7. Best Leather Flip-flops

Reef Men’s Smoothy Sandals

8. Best Retro Style Flip-flops

Sanuk Men’s Fraid Not

The 8 Best Flip-flops for Women

1. Foot-friendly and Super Fashionable Flip-flop

Havaianas Women’s Top Tiras Flip-Flop Sandal

2. Best Crocs for Wear Without Socks

Crocband Flip-Flops

3. Most Fashionable of All the Crocs Flip-flops

Crocs Women’s Kadee II Flip-Flop

4. Best Flip-flops for Yoga

Sanuk Women’s Yoga Mat Flip-Flops

5. Sparkly Flip-flops for Instant Glamour

Reef Women’s Stargazer

6. Pretty and Practical Everyday Flip-flops

Roxy Women’s Vista Sandal Flip-Flop

7. Everyday Flip-flops With a Supersoft Footbed

Reef Women’s Zen Love Sandal

8. Ergonomic Flip-flops To Keep Your Feet Happy

Under Armour Women’s Atlantic Dune T Flip-Flop

Final Thoughts

Frequently asked questions

Are flip-flops bad for your feet?

Should flip-flops be tight or loose?

How long should flip-flops last?

How do you know if your flip-flops fit correctly?

About Amar Hussain

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