The 15 Most Comfortable Flip-Flops for the Summer

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There’s nothing more convenient than slipping on a comfortable pair of flip-flops for a beachside adventure or even a quick trek to the store. They are easy to slip on and off, plus, they never go out of style. There is one downside, though: The traditional flip-flops we all know and love (we’re talking flat, plastic thong sandals) don’t offer the arch support, shock absorption, or cushion that we actually need, says Adejoke Babalola, a New York City-based podiatrist and founder of Perfect Footcare. “If worn at all, it should be for short periods and distances [think: to the pool or to the beach],” she says. “They do not offer any protection against foot and ankle problems and injuries."

Instead, try what doctors call “fit-flops” on for size. According to Babalola, these are basically the same type of shoe, except they also boast the built-in arch support, heel cushion, and stability you’d find in the most comfortable pair of sneakers. “We are always looking to help protect against general foot pain from wearing unsupportive shoes and foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and tendinitis,” she says. “With the arch support and heel cushion in fit-flops, we have a better chance.”

Thankfully, several popular brands like Hoka, Crocs, and Vionic all have flip-flops that feature all of these supportive qualities and more. Scroll on to find expert-approved pairs of the most comfortable flip-flops you’ll love wearing out and about this season.

ARCHIES Footwear - Flip Flop Sandals – Offering Great Arch Support and Comfort - Khaki (Women's US 9/Men's US 8)

LETTI

Nike Women's Calm SE Flip Flops in Grey, Size: 12 | FV5645-001

Melissa Free Platform Flip Flop in Green/Beige at Nordstrom, Size 6

Gizeh Braided [width:Regular]

FitFlop F-MODE Basketweave Platform Flip Flop in Light Tan at Nordstrom, Size 11

OOlala Sandal [width:M]

Foldy Puffy Slide

While these aren't your typical flip-flops, these Oprah-approved slides are too chic and comfortable not to buy. This designer brand has landed on her Favorite Things list because of the amazing fit. The vegan shoes have recycled rubber soles and a foam-cushioned base that molds to your foot with every step.

Size: 5 - 10

Material: Faux leather and ethylene vinyl acetate

Bella II Sandal

Another favorite of Oprah's, you'll want to pair these cute shoes with all your outfits. The comfortable flip-flops come complete with a soft footbed and get an upgrade with a sweet miniature bow and patterned strap. Comfort is paramount for the design of these, too, as they bear an American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance.

Size: 5 - 12

Material: Faux leather upper and ethylene vinyl acetate sole

Women's Sandals Cushion Breeze

These sandals get their claim to fame from super-soft cushioning. They have an ethylene vinyl acetate footbed and rubber sponge outsole that makes them comfortable and flexible without sacrificing durability.

Size: 5 - 12

Material: Rubber and plastic

Ohana Flip-Flops

Yes, we know that flip-flops need structure in order to be comfy. But a cute design is still a must! That's exactly why we adore these shoes. Their coral-reef design and sturdy traction thanks to lugged treads (on wet and dry surfaces) are both essential here.

Size: 5 - 12

Material: Synthetic upper, textile lining, rubber sole

Women's Comfortable Orthotic Flip-Flops

With a gel-injected sole, you'll get an extra boost of padding as you walk. The sole is sweat- and odor-resistant, too, making these pair of flexible and lightweight flip-flops a quality option that Babalola would recommend.

Size: 6 - 11

Material: Polyurethane sole

Algiz Comfortable Flip-Flops

Featuring a chic leather strap and an ergonomic sole, you can't go wrong when shopping these flip-flops. The slip-resistant outsole is an added benefit for pool days.

Size: 5 - 10

Material: Synthetic

Adjustable Buckle Flip-Flops

Trips to the beach or pool means we need shoes that are water-friendly and water-resistant. This waterproof pair fits the bill for both. You finally won't have to worry about damaging your shoes or slipping and sliding when walking on a wet surface! Not to mention, they are also loaded with other perks: light weight, ergonomic shape, and air-foam cushioning.

Size: 5 - 11

Material: Rubber

ORA Recovery Flip-Flops

There are two huge perks to these flip-flops: the comfortable top layer and the structured midsole. The dual-layer construction makes these shoes soft the touch. Plus, it gives them durability and support you'll love for long-lasting wear.

Size: 5 - 11

Material: Ethylene vinyl acetate

Are flip-flops bad for your feet?

While today's supportive flip-flops are supportive and versatile, traditional options from years past weren't always that way. The "original" flip-flops are thin, plastic thong sandals, which are bad for your feet. Their flimsy nature puts stress on soft tissue, says Tulpule.

"[These were] designed to walk on the beach so the sand did not burn your skin and you did not get cut on shells, glass, and sea urchins," says Alper. That essentially means that flip-flops weren't made for extensive walking, shopping, or any all-day type of activity.

If you wear a pair of flip-flops like those, you'll likely run into two main problems: "The lack of arch support for many people will cause straining of the muscles in the bottom of the feet (plantar fasciitis), as well as potential ankle sprains from falling off one's feet," says Alper. "The only way flip-flops of this nature stay on is by gripping with your toes, causing cramping of muscles on the top of the foot and in your toes." This can cause hammertoes (contracture of toes) and bunions, he adds.

What to look for in the most comfortable flip-flops

Stability

The best way to find the most comfortable flip-flops on the market is by looking for sandals with stability. That can be tried out with a simple test. "[Slip] your foot into the flip-flop and lift your foot up without grabbing it with your toes or foot," says Alper. "If the flip-flop falls off, it is too unstable. It will rely on your toes and will cause the problems referred to above."

When the shoe stays on by itself with this test, it's a solid choice. You will often find that flip-flops with a broader strap that attaches farther back (toward the heel) will be the most comfortable.

Quality Sole

Support at the sole is key in a good pair of flip-flops."Look for one with a built-in or contoured arch in the sole on the big-toe side of your foot," says Alper.

Materials

Shopping for flip-flops with cushioned footbeds made with dense foam or a rubber-like material is a safe bet. These are typically water-resistant and allow for solid shock absorption for the foot and leg. "You want it fairly stiff," says Alper. "You should be able to bend the sole, but with effort, not with two fingers."

Meet the experts

• Adejoke Babalola, DPM, FACPM, is a podiatrist and founder of Perfect Footcare.

• David Alper, DPM, is a podiatrist and member of the board of trustees at the American Podiatric Medical Association.
  

• Saylee Tulpule, DPM, is a podiatrist at Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic.

Why trust Oprah Daily

Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst covering the latest and greatest products across the home and lifestyle categories. Throughout her career, she has interviewed countless doctors to learn about the best products to support health and wellness.

For this story, she chatted with podiatrists about their favorite picks and what to look for in comfortable flip-flops, including material, comfort, and inclusive sizing.

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