These Flip-Flops Have Incredible Arch Support for Pain-Free Walking
Leave those flimsy rubber flip-flops in the store. For happy feet this summer, you need a pair with good arch support. But what does that mean? A supportive shoe actually comes down to three things: arch height, the footbed, and the overall durability, says Jane Andersen, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Chapel Hill Foot and Ankle Associates in Chapel Hill, NC.
The thing about traditional flat flip-flops is they don’t do anything to support your feet. They can even cause you to develop foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or general foot pain since there’s no cushioning to protect your heel.
How to find the best flip-flops with arch support
Yes, you can rock flip-flops (cute ones, too!) without hurting your feet. However, there are sandal features that you need to keep in mind to make that possible. For one, your flip-flops should never be paper-thin (unless you’re wearing them exclusively as shower shoes at the gym). In other words, if the flip-flops can easily break, they can easily damage your feet. Here are three other tips to keep in mind when shopping:
Choose a pair that matches your foot arch.
Flip-flops feel different for each person, mainly due to your foot arch. Think of it this way: If you have a high arch, you need flip-flops with a similar high arch. If you have a flat arch, you need flip-flops with a lower arch.
“You want a flip-flop that supports your arch type,” explains Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist at the Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Washington, D.C. Most people have a normal to flat arch, says Dr. Tulpule, adding that you can tell if a flip-flop matches your arch by simply trying them on. “It should just immediately feel comfortable—like a perfect match,” Dr. Tulpule explains.
Opt for contoured footbeds.
The footbed shape should follow your natural foot shape, Dr. Andersen says. Contoured footbeds are ideal because the molding tends to fit feet better. This type of footbed is often made of cork or natural latex and provides even distribution of your weight across the shoe. A contoured footbed is also more comfortable, because they consistently support your foot alignment while also helping to prevent painful injuries like shin splints and collapsed arches.
Consider rubber soles.
A sandal’s sturdiness matters too. Your flip-flops should not only withstand normal wear and tear, but they should also have a strong sole that keeps you from tripping, falling, and twisting your ankle, says Dr. Tulpule. Flip-flops with rubber soles support and comfort your feet, allowing you to walk on all surfaces without stumbling around. Most rubber soles are also waterproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about slipping and sliding.
Now that you know what to look for in a flip-flop with arch support, you’re ready to go shopping! Check out our favorite podiatrist-approved picks below.
Vionic Bella II Flip-Flops
This ergonomic sandal has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, a rare honor given to shoes that meet the organization’s strict standards for promoting foot health. We love the stylish bow on the straps and the half-inch heel, which gives you a little more support than a complete flat. It also has contoured arches to match the curves of your feet. Comfort, meet style. One Nordstrom reviewer writes: “This is the first pair of flip-flops I’ve been able to wear without getting a blister between my toes! They’re very comfortable and cute enough to wear with dressier clothes. Plus, I have high arches and they support them perfectly. I can wear them for hours!”
OOFOS OOlala Sandals
These flip-flops will really make your feet go “ooh la la”—plus, they check all the boxes. They’re simple, water-resistant, and have great footbed cushioning. “I often recommend them for therapeutic purposes when people are already having foot pain,” Dr. Andersen says. Trust us, your feet will thank you. One Amazon reviewer says they would give this flip-fop six stars if possible. The reason: “These are very thick in the heel and in the arch with a soft but durable material. [My wife] said it was like walking on marshmallows, pillows, clouds… She would wear them constantly, all day without any discomfort or pain.”
Olukai Ohana Flip-Flops
These supportive flip-flops are made with a water-resistant strap and quick-dry lining, so you can can go from the beach to the street in comfort. They come in 15 different summer-ready colors that are sure to brighten up any look. A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I have arthritis in my feet and it’s a pleasure to find these. They are comfortable out of the box. They will go on vacation with me. I purchased the light color and love them.”
Birkenstock Gizeh EVA Flip-Flops
With narrow- and medium-width sizes, this pair of Birkenstocks can accommodate a variety of feet. The contoured, flexible insoles adjusts to the shape of your foot, while cradling every curve around your arches. The cork footbed also helps to absorb shock, and the raised toe bar naturally supports the way you move your feet. A Zappos reviewer who has plantar fasciitis and high arches says, “These Birkenstocks have helped me get my problem under control.” Another reviewer says: “They fit like a glove and are very lightweight. I have wide feet and they aren’t an issue. The arch support is great.”
Crocs Women’s Swiftwater Flip-Flops
You’ll be glad you wore these Crocs instead of a flimsy pair of flip-flops because they’re still lightweight and flexible, but offer top-notch support. The outsoles are made with herringbone flex grooves that have much-needed traction around water, and the comfortable upper gives you freedom to move easily. An Amazon reviewer calls these a “great summer flip-flop for the beach,” as the “rubber is firm but not hard.”
Aerothotic Original Orthotic Comfort Flip-Flops
These water-resistant flip-flops have a wedge heel to provide arch support in the midsoles. Wear them as you’re lounging poolside or at the beach, or pair them with a super chic outfit for a cookout. Unlike other flip-flops, this pair has a leather-cushioned thong that makes them comfortable to wear all day long. “These slippers are surprisingly light, comfortable, and durable,” one reviewer raves. “They don’t squeak and provides the perfect arch support for someone [with flat feet].”
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops
These ultra-lightweight flip-flops will be ready to wear right out of the box—no breaking in required. The synthetic rubber sole ensures proper support, the OrthoLite footbed hugs the arch, while the soft textile lining keeps uncomfortable rubbing at bay. Even better, you can snag these in a variety of fun, eye-catching colors. One reviewer raves: “I just want you to know these are extremely comfortable! They have a very cushy insole which is very important for those of us whose feet aren’t what they used to be! The insole gives enough so my feet are not [in pain] even when I wear these all day.”
Vionic Kirra Backstrap Flip-Flops
Classy meets casual in this flip-flop with an ankle strap. The microfiber footbed absorbs shock to help reduce muscle imbalances and knee pain, while the durable outsole has superior traction that can withstand a variety a surfaces. Vionic’s flip-flops are designed to cradle your arches, and these sandals have a built-in orthotic to help keep plantar fasciitis pain at bay.
FitFlop Surfa Flip-Flops
If you’re looking for more of a wedge-style flip-flop, these are for you. The midsoles are also nice and roomy, a perk if you have wider feet. These also earn the APMA Seal of Acceptance, thanks to the built-in arch support, slip-resistant rubber outsole, and soft textile uppers. One Amazon reviewer who has fallen arches and plantar fasciitis says they’re “so happy” they gave these sandals a try. “The support was just perfect so that I was comfortable, but not so hard that it took time to get used to. After just a few days my recurring foot pain is gone.”
Teva Voya Flip-Flops
Teva itself claims these flip-flops are best for all-day walking. This style is cushioned, extremely durable, molds to your feet, and dries quickly for comfy, slip-resistant wear. Best of all, the entire shoe is recyclable and the webbing is made from recycled plastic—preventing two plastic bottles from winding up in landfills. “These are so comfortable!” one reviewer writes. “I like how they have a good arch support, squishy bounce, and cute fabric.”
OluKai ‘Aukai Flip-Flops
Say hello to your new go-to beach sandal! This neutral pick is understated enough to go with every look, but the high-quality, soft leather offers a chic, elevated take on your standard flip-flop. The upper has a breathable, microfiber lining for a comfy fit, the anatomical footbed ensures all-day support, and the rubber outsole is designed with traction and durability in mind. “These are so buttery soft,” one Zappos reviewer writes. “I have a very high arch—these were amazing right out of box. I came back to order another color!”
Reef Ortho-Bounce Woven Flip-Flops
Reef’s sandals are stylish and supportive. The cushioned footbed softly cups the heel while offering enhanced arch support to absorb shock with each step you take. The rubber outsole has flex grooves for added durability and traction, and the woven strap upper is made from recycled material with vegan leather detailing. Reviewers rave about the comfort these offer, but recommend ordering a size up to ensure the best fit. “Not only are these super cute, they are sturdy,” one Zappos customer writes.
Crocs Classic II Flip-Flop
If you’re a fan of color, you’ll love these bright flip-flops from Crocs—which are popular for a reason. The brand’s Croslite foam cushions and supports the arches for cloud-like comfort, while the textured heel gives some slip resistance. Best of all, these are incredibly easy to clean, making them a great do-it-all sandal for everyday wear, even if you’re doing work around the yard. Reviwers say they’re “easy to wear,” “fit great,” and feel like you’re “walking on air.”
Franco Sarto Jonas Flip-Flop
Looking for a platform flip-flop? Slip these on for premium comfort, thanks to their ultra-puff EVA footbed with arch support and soft faux leather uppers. Find them in this fun fuchsia, bright yellow, classic black, and other summery styles that are easy to dress up or down. The crisscrossed toe straps add a unique detail, too.
Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flops
This simple, low-profile style is everything you’d want in a flip-flop with arch support. They’re easy to travel with, built to be worn around water, and designed with EVA cushioning and a contoured arch to keep your feet feeling healthy and happy. “Love love love this flip-flop! It has a narrow footbed, so it doesn’t look clunky,” one Zappos reviewer writes. “The straps are tighter than some flip-flops, which is awesome for me because I always have a problem with my feet sliding around. The arch is excellent.”
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