Are Flip-Flops and Sandals Always Bad for Your Feet?

Good news and bad news. Let’s start with the bad news. In general, most flip flops are not good for your feet, however, that doesn’t mean that all flip flops are bad. When you wear flip-flops, your toes tend to over-grip because the thin straps don’t securely hold your shoes in place. The over-gripping can lead to inflammation in the plantar fascia ligament along the bottom side of your foot. They commonly offer little to no ankle and arch support. This lack of support daily can lead to foot pain and make you more susceptible to back, hip, and leg pain in the future. Wearing unsupported flip-flops during extended periods of walking can cause not only issues now, but when you get older too.

The good news: There are flip flops and sandals that are made to be more supportive and provide a healthier experience for your feet. So, while we know that flip-flops are comfortable to wear because they are light, fast to put on, and easy to take off, remember that if they aren’t supportive, they are not healthy for the feet. To avoid plantar fasciitis, inflammation, hammertoe, or ankle sprains, you should consider switching your flip-flops and unsupportive sandals to supportive ones. You should be wearing appropriate footwear in your daily activities, even if it’s just walking around your house.

Here are a few we love:

The Drew Cruize: Orthopedic Sandals for Women

The perfect summer shoe that provides arch support, all while giving a casual and sophisticated look. This sandal is designed with a Great Euro styling and full leather linings. The removable footbed feature along with the steel shank in the shoe accommodates custom orthotics. These stylish and supportive shoes are perfect to wear around this summer.

The Wave by Vionic with Vionic Technology: Orthopedic Unisex Sandals

A doctor-approved sandal that is designed to correct any improper weight distribution that can lead to back pain, knee pain, ankle pain, heel pain, and other challenges. This lightweight shoe is durable, convenient, easy to wear, and fashionable. The Wave is ready to keep your feet supported and your summer stylish.

The Naot Kayla: Naot women's sandal

Kayla is a classy, top of the line women's orthopedic sandal with an adjustable ankle strap. Its Italian leather upper is designed to allow maximum breathability, keeping your foot feeling fresh. This hand made sandal creates the perfect blend of form and function, to ensure the best high-styled walking pleasure. Don’t strain your feet or your ankles this summer with unsupported flip flops and sandals. This summer we are promoting healthy and supported feet with wearing healthy flip flops and sandals.

Written by
Dr. Jeffrey S. Hurless
DPM, FACFAS Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon/Podiatrist
Medical Director, HealthyFeetStore.com